Columbia Heights School Board member steps down

On November 4, Columbia Heights Public Schools (CHPS) School Board member Corenia Smith submitted her resignation to the Board effective immediately. The Board will host a special election for the position on April 14, 2026. Until then, Lorien Mueller, CHPS Board of Education chair, will fill the seat.
Neighborhood merger on hold
A proposed merger between the Sheridan Neighborhood Organization (SNO) and the St. Anthony West Neighborhood Organization (STAWNO) has been paused.
An email from the SNO says that “after reviewing the recent presentation, we’ve determined that there is not enough data to make an informed decision.
“We’re working to put together a stronger, more complete presentation of the information. Our goal is to provide a clear, data-driven overview that fully reflects the needs and benefits for both neighborhoods as well as a more in depth analysis.”
SNO and STAWNO “plan to present updated information” at their January community meetings, at which point they will resume community votes on the measure.
Changes coming to Nicollet Island Pavilion
The week of November 3, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) started work on repairs to the Nicollet Island Pavilion. An email from the MPRB says the first phase of the project “includes new roofing, insulation and masonry repairs” as well as other work.
Currently, there are no planned building or road closures associated with the project, but the MPRB advises onlookers to keep a safe distance from construction and to follow regulations.