October county updates

Welcome to our monthly news roundup! We publish these at the end of each month to summarize what happened in Otter Tail County in the past month and to feature what’s ahead. To keep up with the latest happenings in Otter Tail County, follow us on Facebook and visit our Notification Center to sign up for news alerts on topics of your choosing.

Recent headlines

Invasive species discovered in Anna Lake; rapid response treatment applied

Single-sort curbside recycling pilot program launched in southeast area

County to participate in 2025 Operation Green Light for Veterans

Winter Snow Removal Reminder: Help Keep Our Roads Safe and Clear

Working for you!

Your county government is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and resources in Otter Tail County. Here’s some of what we’ve been working on this month:

Fir and Friberg Avenue roundabout ribbon cutting

County officials expressed appreciation to area residents and businesses who navigated detours and delays throughout the construction season.

A group of 16 people cut a blue ribbon in front of the Fir-Friberg roundabout

“The patience and understanding shown by residents living near this intersection and those who regularly travel through this area made this project possible,” shared County Highway Engineer Jodi Teich. “We know construction is never convenient, but the cooperation we received from the community was appreciated. This roundabout will improve safety and traffic flow for years to come.”

Businesses near the intersection, including the Fergus Falls YMCA, remained accessible throughout construction, though access points shifted as work progressed.

Partnership Effort

The project represents a collaborative effort between Otter Tail County, the city of Fergus Falls and the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

Aerial view of the Fir-Friberg roundabout in Fergus Falls.

“Through partnership with Fergus Falls and Otter Tail County leaders, I was happy to support the $790,000 Local Road Improvement Program grant for the Friberg and Fir Avenue roundabout,” said Sen. Jordan Rasmusson. “As our community grows and local infrastructure ages, we need to update our infrastructure and ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians.”

Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety Tour

Patrick Hollister, Active Living Planner for Partnership4Health, led a Roundabout Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety Tour on Thursday, October 30. The hands-on tour was designed to help pedestrians and cyclists navigate the new infrastructure safely and confidently.

Said Hollister, “Roundabouts are generally safer than conventional intersections because they slow vehicle speeds, reducing the severity of potential collisions. They also minimize conflict points between drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists, making it easier for all users to navigate safely.”

Looking Ahead

The Fir/Friberg roundabout is part of Otter Tail County’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure improvements. County officials presented a 2025 road and bridge project plan earlier this year, including the Highway 52 reclamation project and Highway 35 shoulder widening. Reconstruction work on Highway 1 continues.

Residents are encouraged to follow progress on county projects by visiting the Projects section of the county website.

Board of Commissioners meetings now available on YouTube

Board of Commissioners meetings are available to re-watch on YouTube. To access the videos, visit the Board of Commissioners page and scroll to “Recent Meetings and Events” or visit our Public Meetings playlist on YouTube. The meeting videos are divided into chapters by agenda item so you can click the video timeline to jump directly to the segment you would like to watch.

Become a Volunteer Driver

Human Services of Otter Tail and Wilkin Counties are looking for volunteers to transport clients to appointments within the county. Example destinations include: