Two seriously injured in one vehicle rollover north of Clinton

Two people from Clinton suffered life-threatening injuries following a rollover crash just north of Clinton on Monday, April 15. The accident occurred at mile marker 148, Almond Township in Big Stone County, according to the MN State Highway Patrol report.

The driver was identified as 40-year old Kjoe Joseph and his passenger was 32-year old Smileen Singeuo, both of Clinton.

The Minnesota State Patrol site says the crash happened shortly before 7 p.m when a 2003 Buick Rendezvous driven by Joseph was traveling southbound on U.S Highway 75 and lost control and rolled the vehicle.

Both were ejected from the vehicle and suffered life threatening injuries as a result of the rollover. One was airlifted at the scene and the other transferred to Essentia Health Holy Trinity Hospital in Graceville, then airlifted out.

A portion of Highway 75 was closed to traffic by emergency personnel for a time following the accident.

According to the Minnesota State Patrol, neither the driver or passenger were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash and alcohol was a factor. The accident is still under investigation and charges are pending.

Emergency personnel responding to the accident included the Minnesota State Patrol, Big Stone County Sheriff’s Department, Graceville Ambulance Service, Ortonville Ambulance Service, Clinton Fire Department, Clinton First Responders and LifeLink III.

At the time of publication, no further information was available about the condition of the driver or passenger.

City Council approves 2023 Audit by CliftonLarsonAllen

Mary Reddy of CliftonLarsonAllen gave a presentation on the findings of the 2023 City Financial Audit. She had stated that there was no disagreements with management about matters that could be significant to the financial statements. Management was most cooperative and helpful. Council members approved the Financial Audit by CliftonLarsonAllen for 2023.

During staff reports, it was noted that they are pressure washing the outside of the pool to try and keep it from peeling off. They plan on priming it and then painting it that will hopefully last more than a year.

There was discussion on the dog park. It was noted that some residents using the dog park are not cleaning up after their dogs. Those using the dog park, which is located by Fairway View, are asked to use the bags provided at the park to clean up after their dog.

On the recommendation of the Golf Board, the City Council approved a motion to ban an individual for the 2024 golf season at the Ortonville Golf Course because of violating golf course rules. The council also approved reimbursing his membership for the 2024 season.

Discussion was held on the Ordinance concerning metal sheds in the residential area. It is cheaper and many residents are requesting a change. It was determined by the council to make changes to the ordinance. It was approved to send back to the Planning and Zoning Committee for reevalution with recommended changes. Councilman Bill Powell cast the lone no vote.

A gambling permit was approved for Big Stone Area Growth for a tree raffle at the Ortonville Golf Course.

The next meeting of the Ortonville City Council will be Monday, May 6 at 5 p.m. in the Library Media Center.