City of Albert Lea - City Hall Facebook Feed

Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons

NEXT CHAPTER FOR CHILDREN’S LIBRARIAN: After 25 years with the Albert Lea Public Library, Patty Greibrok is retiring next month. Known to many as “Miss Patty,” she has inspired thousands of children to read and learn. The public is invited to stop at the library, 211 E. Clark St., on Thursday, April 17, between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. to wish her a happy retirement. That will also be her last day of leading children’s programs. Thank you Miss Patty for all the fun and amazing programs! ... See MoreSee Less

NEXT CHAPTER FOR CHILDREN’S LIBRARIAN: After 25 years with the Albert Lea Public Library, Patty Greibrok is retiring next month. Known to many as “Miss Patty,” she has inspired thousands of children to read and learn. The public is invited to stop at the library, 211 E. Clark St., on Thursday, April 17, between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. to wish her a happy retirement. That will also be her last day of leading children’s programs. Thank you Miss Patty for all the fun and amazing programs!

NEWS RELEASE: POLICE SEEK PUBLIC'S HELP IN PARK VANDALISM CASE
The Albert Lea Police Department (ALPD) is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying witnesses and/or suspects involved in significant vandalism at Fountain Lake Park, 100 Fountain St.

On April 3, 2025, at approximately 7 a.m., officers responded to a report of damage at Fountain Lake Park at the intersection of Broadway Avenue and Lakeview Boulevard. Upon investigation, officers discovered extensive damage to park lighting and landscaping. The damage included the following.
• Streetlights: Three streetlight-style lights in the grassy area near Fountain Lake had their glass globes smashed.
• Sidewalk marker light: One raised marker light near the water’s edge had its top broken off.
• Electrical panel: The electrical panel was opened, and rocks (riprap from the lake’s edge) were thrown against the breakers, causing visible damage.
• Gazebo landscaping: The landscaping and retaining wall around the gazebo, particularly on the north side, were broken apart and overturned.
• Stadium seating marker lights: Marker lights embedded in the cement stadium seating area were kicked out.
• Scattered riprap: Rocks, likely used to cause the damage, were scattered across the sidewalk.

The estimated damage exceeds $30,000.

Investigators believe the vandalism occurred within the previous two to three days, given the favorable weather conditions.

“This level of destruction is deeply concerning, and we are committed to holding those responsible accountable,” said ALPD Lt. Darin Palmer. “Fountain Lake Park is a valued community space, and this senseless act of vandalism impacts everyone who enjoys it.”

The ALPD has documented the damage with photographs, and the Albert Lea Parks and Recreation departments has started repairs. The ALPD is conducting extra patrols in the park to deter further incidents.

The police urge anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in Fountain Lake Park between April 1 – 3, 2025, or who has any information related to this incident, to contact police immediately:
• Call 507-377-5200
• Please reference incident number: 202500013727
• Public assistance is crucial in helping bring those responsible to justice.

#

The mission of the Albert Lea Police Department is to enhance the quality of life in Albert Lea by providing excellent public safety services through leadership, integrity, and in collaborative partnerships with our community.
... See MoreSee Less

NEWS RELEASE: POLICE SEEK PUBLICS HELP IN PARK VANDALISM CASE
The Albert Lea Police Department (ALPD) is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying witnesses and/or suspects involved in significant vandalism at Fountain Lake Park, 100 Fountain St.

On April 3, 2025, at approximately 7 a.m., officers responded to a report of damage at Fountain Lake Park at the intersection of Broadway Avenue and Lakeview Boulevard. Upon investigation, officers discovered extensive damage to park lighting and landscaping. The damage included the following.
• Streetlights: Three streetlight-style lights in the grassy area near Fountain Lake had their glass globes smashed.
• Sidewalk marker light: One raised marker light near the water’s edge had its top broken off.
• Electrical panel: The electrical panel was opened, and rocks (riprap from the lake’s edge) were thrown against the breakers, causing visible damage.
• Gazebo landscaping: The landscaping and retaining wall around the gazebo, particularly on the north side, were broken apart and overturned.
• Stadium seating marker lights: Marker lights embedded in the cement stadium seating area were kicked out.
• Scattered riprap: Rocks, likely used to cause the damage, were scattered across the sidewalk.

The estimated damage exceeds $30,000.

Investigators believe the vandalism occurred within the previous two to three days, given the favorable weather conditions.

“This level of destruction is deeply concerning, and we are committed to holding those responsible accountable,” said ALPD Lt. Darin Palmer. “Fountain Lake Park is a valued community space, and this senseless act of vandalism impacts everyone who enjoys it.”

The ALPD has documented the damage with photographs, and the Albert Lea Parks and Recreation departments has started repairs. The ALPD is conducting extra patrols in the park to deter further incidents.

The police urge anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in Fountain Lake Park between April 1 – 3, 2025, or who has any information related to this incident, to contact police immediately:
• Call 507-377-5200
• Please reference incident number: 202500013727
• Public assistance is crucial in helping bring those responsible to justice.

#

The mission of the Albert Lea Police Department is to enhance the quality of life in Albert Lea by providing excellent public safety services through leadership, integrity, and in collaborative partnerships with our community.Image attachmentImage attachment+2Image attachment

ON THE AGENDA: At its meeting Monday, the Albert Lea City Council will consider a proposal to remodel City Hall to improve security and office efficiency. A joint city staff-councilor committee is recommending a key card system; more expedient exits for emergencies; moving service windows so staff can observe activity in lobbies; moving some staff from cramped spaces into vacant or little-used areas; and other changes. The estimated cost is $1.5 million. Also Monday, the council will take a final vote on splitting police and fire leadership, along with awarding contracts for several street projects. Have a question or comment? Instead of commenting below, attend the council meeting or contact your city councilor directly: cityofalbertlea.org/council/. A phone call or email is the most effective way to provide input. ... See MoreSee Less

ON THE AGENDA: At its meeting Monday, the Albert Lea City Council will consider a proposal to remodel City Hall to improve security and office efficiency. A joint city staff-councilor committee is recommending a key card system; more expedient exits for emergencies; moving service windows so staff can observe activity in lobbies; moving some staff from cramped spaces into vacant or little-used areas; and other changes. The estimated cost is $1.5 million. Also Monday, the council will take a final vote on splitting police and fire leadership, along with awarding contracts for several street projects. Have a question or comment? Instead of commenting below, attend the council meeting or contact your city councilor directly: https://cityofalbertlea.org/council/. A phone call or email is the most effective way to provide input.
Load more

Albert Lea Recreation Facebook Feed

Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons

RECREATION OFFICE IS ON THE MOVE! Our office will be closed on Monday, April 14 to prepare for our move to the City Garage, 414 Commercial St. Don't worry we will be back at the City Arena in the fall once the construction is complete!

Our office hours will now be 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday, effective Tuesday, April 15.
... See MoreSee Less

RECREATION OFFICE IS ON THE MOVE! Our office will be closed on Monday, April 14 to prepare for our move to the City Garage, 414 Commercial St. Dont worry we will be back at the City Arena in the fall once the construction is complete! 

Our office hours will now be 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday, effective Tuesday, April 15.

Adult Co-Ed Volleyball League Tournament Highlights! Congrats to our 2025 champions, No mercy!

Don't forget to register your women's and co-ed teams for summer sand volleyball league this summer! bit.ly/recreation-registration
... See MoreSee Less

COMMUNITY DOCK PERMITS: Dock spaces for the 2025 season on Fountain Lake will be made available to the public for rental on Friday, April 11 at 6 a.m. at the City Arena.

For additional information on the rental process, please visit the City of Albert Lea website. The list of available dock spaces can be found on the website.
... See MoreSee Less

COMMUNITY DOCK PERMITS: Dock spaces for the 2025 season on Fountain Lake will be made available to the public for rental on Friday, April 11 at 6 a.m. at the City Arena. 

For additional information on the rental process, please visit the City of Albert Lea website. The list of available dock spaces can be found on the website.
Load more

Albert Lea Public Library Facebook Feed

Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons

It is the last week of children's programming before we take a break to prepare for summer. Join us for Storytime on Monday and Tuesday at 10 a.m., Night-time Storytime on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m., or Music & Movement on Thursday at 10 a.m.

The Albert Lea Public Library will be closed on Sun., April 20 for the Easter holiday.

Check our online calendar for full details about all our programs: alplonline.org/events-calendar/
... See MoreSee Less

It is the last week of childrens programming before we take a break to prepare for summer. Join us for Storytime on Monday and Tuesday at 10 a.m., Night-time Storytime on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m., or Music & Movement on Thursday at 10 a.m. 

The Albert Lea Public Library will be closed on Sun., April 20 for the Easter holiday.

Check our online calendar for full details about all our programs: https://alplonline.org/events-calendar/Image attachment

After 25 years at the Albert Lea Public Library, Miss Patty, our children's librarian, is retiring!

Stop by the library after her last children's program on Thurs., April 17 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. to wish her a happy retirement. Light refreshments, sponsored by the Friends of the Albert Lea Public Library, will be served.
... See MoreSee Less

After 25 years at the Albert Lea Public Library, Miss Patty, our childrens librarian, is retiring! 

Stop by the library after her last childrens program on Thurs., April 17 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. to wish her a happy retirement. Light refreshments, sponsored by the Friends of the Albert Lea Public Library, will be served.

It's a busy week of programming at the Albert Lea Public Library! Check out our events below, and head to our online calendar to learn more and to register for programs: alplonline.org/events-calendar/.

A reminder this week: the ability to request items from MNLINK will be suspended on Thurs., April 10 in preparation for our software migration. Requests will resume in early May. You will still be able to request items in the SELCO region.
... See MoreSee Less

Its a busy week of programming at the Albert Lea Public Library! Check out our events below, and head to our online calendar to learn more and to register for programs: https://alplonline.org/events-calendar/. 

A reminder this week: the ability to request items from MNLINK will be suspended on Thurs., April 10 in preparation for our software migration. Requests will resume in early May. You will still be able to request items in the SELCO region.Image attachment
Load more

Albert Lea Police Department Facebook Feed

Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons
16 hours ago

Albert Lea's Department of Public Safety Extends Gratitude to Freeborn County Telecommunicators During National Telecommunicators Week

ALBERT LEA, MN - April 13, 2025 – The Department of Public Safety is honored to recognize the exceptional dedication and unwavering service of the telecommunicators who are the vital link connecting our Albert Lea Police Department, Albert Lea Fire Rescue, and the citizens of Albert Lea during National Telecommunicators Week, observed from April 13th to April 19th.

Every day, the skilled professionals who staff our county's dispatch center are the first point of contact for Albert Lea residents facing emergencies. They answer calls with composure and empathy, gathering critical information that enables our police officers and firefighters to respond effectively and efficiently. Their calm voices in moments of crisis provide reassurance and their quick thinking can be life-saving.

"Freeborn County telecommunicators are an indispensable part of the Albert Lea public safety team," stated Director J.D. Carlson. "They are the unseen first responders who work tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring that our brave men and women of our police & fire departments have the information they need to protect our community. Their dedication directly contributes to the safety and well-being of every citizen in Albert Lea."

These dedicated individuals do far more than just answer phones. They coordinate complex responses, maintain crucial communication between different agencies, and provide vital support to our first responders on the scene. Their local knowledge of Albert Lea and their commitment to serving our community are truly invaluable.

The Albert Lea Department of Public Safety extends its sincere appreciation to all the telecommunicators who serve Albert Lea. Your professionalism, your commitment to excellence, and your unwavering dedication to our residents make Albert Lea a safer place to live. Thank you for being the crucial lifeline for our police department, our fire rescue, and the citizens we are all privileged to serve.

###
... See MoreSee Less

Albert Leas Department of Public Safety Extends Gratitude to Freeborn County Telecommunicators During National Telecommunicators Week

ALBERT LEA, MN - April 13, 2025 – The Department of Public Safety is honored to recognize the exceptional dedication and unwavering service of the telecommunicators who are the vital link connecting our Albert Lea Police Department, Albert Lea Fire Rescue, and the citizens of Albert Lea during National Telecommunicators Week, observed from April 13th to April 19th.

Every day, the skilled professionals who staff our countys dispatch center are the first point of contact for Albert Lea residents facing emergencies. They answer calls with composure and empathy, gathering critical information that enables our police officers and firefighters to respond effectively and efficiently. Their calm voices in moments of crisis provide reassurance and their quick thinking can be life-saving.

Freeborn County telecommunicators are an indispensable part of the Albert Lea public safety team, stated Director J.D. Carlson. They are the unseen first responders who work tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring that our brave men and women of our police & fire departments have the information they need to protect our community. Their dedication directly contributes to the safety and well-being of every citizen in Albert Lea.

These dedicated individuals do far more than just answer phones. They coordinate complex responses, maintain crucial communication between different agencies, and provide vital support to our first responders on the scene. Their local knowledge of Albert Lea and their commitment to serving our community are truly invaluable.

The Albert Lea Department of Public Safety extends its sincere appreciation to all the telecommunicators who serve Albert Lea. Your professionalism, your commitment to excellence, and your unwavering dedication to our residents make Albert Lea a safer place to live. Thank you for being the crucial lifeline for our police department, our fire rescue, and the citizens we are all privileged to serve.

###
2 days ago

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Lieutenant Palmer at 507.377.5217 or [email protected]

Albert Lea Police Department Seeks Community Assistance in Vandalism Investigation at Fountain Lake Park

Albert Lea, MN – April 12, 2025 – The Albert Lea Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying witnesses and/or suspects involved in a significant vandalism incident that occurred at Fountain Lake Park.

On April 3, 2025, at approximately 7:00 AM, officers responded to a report of damage at Fountain Lake Park, located at the intersection of Broadway Avenue and Fountain Street. Upon investigation, officers discovered extensive damage to park lighting and landscaping.

The damage includes:

• Streetlights: Three streetlight-style lights in the grassy area near the water had their glass globes smashed.
• Sidewalk Marker Light: One raised marker light near the water’s edge had its top broken off.
• Electrical Panel: The electrical panel was opened, and rocks (rip rap from the lake’s edge) were thrown against the breakers, causing visible damage.
• Gazebo Landscaping: The landscaping/retaining wall around the gazebo, particularly on the north side, was broken apart and overturned.
• Stadium Seating Marker Lights: Marker lights embedded in the cement stadium seating area were kicked out.
• Scattered Rip Rap: Rocks, likely used to cause the damage, were scattered across the sidewalk.

The estimated damage is in excess of $30,000.

Investigators believe the vandalism occurred within the previous two to three days, given the prevailing weather conditions.

“This level of destruction is deeply concerning, and we are committed to holding those responsible accountable,” said Lt. Darin Palmer of the Albert Lea Police Department. “Fountain Lake Park is a valued community space, and this senseless act of vandalism impacts everyone who enjoys it.”

The Albert Lea Police Department has documented the damage with photographs, and the City Park and Recreation Department has been notified to initiate repairs. Extra patrols will be conducted in the park to deter further incidents.

We urge anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in Fountain Lake Park between April 1, 2025, and April 3, 2025, or who has any information related to this incident, to contact the Albert Lea Police Department immediately.

Contact Information:

Albert Lea Police Department: 507.377.5200

Please reference incident number: 202500013727

Your assistance is crucial in helping us bring those responsible to justice.

#

Our Mission is to enhance the quality of life in Albert Lea, by providing excellent public safety services through leadership, integrity, and in collaborative partnerships with our community.
... See MoreSee Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Lieutenant Palmer at 507.377.5217 or dpalmer@ci.albertlea.mn.us

Albert Lea Police Department Seeks Community Assistance in Vandalism Investigation at Fountain Lake Park

Albert Lea, MN – April 12, 2025 – The Albert Lea Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying witnesses and/or suspects involved in a significant vandalism incident that occurred at Fountain Lake Park.

On April 3, 2025, at approximately 7:00 AM, officers responded to a report of damage at Fountain Lake Park, located at the intersection of Broadway Avenue and Fountain Street. Upon investigation, officers discovered extensive damage to park lighting and landscaping.

The damage includes:

 • Streetlights: Three streetlight-style lights in the grassy area near the water had their glass globes smashed.
 • Sidewalk Marker Light: One raised marker light near the water’s edge had its top broken off.
 • Electrical Panel: The electrical panel was opened, and rocks (rip rap from the lake’s edge) were thrown against the breakers, causing visible damage.
 • Gazebo Landscaping: The landscaping/retaining wall around the gazebo, particularly on the north side, was broken apart and overturned.
 • Stadium Seating Marker Lights: Marker lights embedded in the cement stadium seating area were kicked out.
 • Scattered Rip Rap: Rocks, likely used to cause the damage, were scattered across the sidewalk.

The estimated damage is in excess of $30,000.

Investigators believe the vandalism occurred within the previous two to three days, given the prevailing weather conditions.

“This level of destruction is deeply concerning, and we are committed to holding those responsible accountable,” said Lt. Darin Palmer of the Albert Lea Police Department. “Fountain Lake Park is a valued community space, and this senseless act of vandalism impacts everyone who enjoys it.”

The Albert Lea Police Department has documented the damage with photographs, and the City Park and Recreation Department has been notified to initiate repairs. Extra patrols will be conducted in the park to deter further incidents.

We urge anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in Fountain Lake Park between April 1, 2025, and April 3, 2025, or who has any information related to this incident, to contact the Albert Lea Police Department immediately.

Contact Information:

Albert Lea Police Department: 507.377.5200

Please reference incident number: 202500013727

Your assistance is crucial in helping us bring those responsible to justice.

#

Our Mission is to enhance the quality of life in Albert Lea, by providing excellent public safety services through leadership, integrity, and in collaborative partnerships with our community.Image attachmentImage attachment+7Image attachment
Load more

Albert Lea Fire Rescue Facebook Feed

Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons

Albert Lea Fire Rescue responded to 712 Valley Ave. at 9:56 a.m. today for a reported house fire.

The resident reportedly came home, noticed smoke showing from the building, and called 911.

Fire crews arrived on the scene and found smoke coming from the house on the second floor.

The resident had heavy contents and electrical cords throughout the sleeping area where the fire originated, but the cause is undetermined after investigation.

Fire crews worked on the scene for about an hour, checking for fire extension.

The resident was treated by Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service for smoke inhalation and released at the scene.

Albert Lea Fire Rescue would like to remind residents to maintain two means of egress in sleeping areas and only use extension cords for temporary use.

Albert Lea Police Department was also on the scene.
... See MoreSee Less

Albert Lea Fire Rescue responded to 712 Valley Ave. at 9:56 a.m. today for a reported house fire.
 
The resident reportedly came home, noticed smoke showing from the building, and called 911.
 
Fire crews arrived on the scene and found smoke coming from the house on the second floor. 
 
The resident had heavy contents and electrical cords throughout the sleeping area where the fire originated, but the cause is undetermined after investigation.
 
Fire crews worked on the scene for about an hour, checking for fire extension.
 
The resident was treated by Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service for smoke inhalation and released at the scene.
 
Albert Lea Fire Rescue would like to remind residents to maintain two means of egress in sleeping areas and only use extension cords for temporary use.
 
Albert Lea Police Department was also on the scene.

⚠️FYI for tomorrow⚠️

Freeborn County will be participating in a state-wide tornado drill at 1:45 p.m.
... See MoreSee Less

⚠️FYI for tomorrow⚠️

Freeborn County will be participating in a state-wide tornado drill at 1:45 p.m.
1 week ago

... See MoreSee Less

Load more