JUST THE FACTS

February 20, 2026 Volume 17 Issue 8

THIS WEEK'S IN CUSTODY ARRESTS

Josue Gutierrez (30) of Owatonna was formally charged with harassment restraining order violation stemming from an incident on February 16th, near the 400 block of Chestnut Ave.
Auzztin Williams (20) of Owatonna was formally charged with 3rd degree DWI stemming from a domestic disturbance complaint on February 17th.
Joshua Sexter (24) of Owatonna was formally charged with domestic abuse no contact order violation, stemming from a traffic stop on February 19th.

2026 State of the City

The City of Owatonna’s 2026 State of the City video is available to view at owatonna.gov and on Owatonna’s Public Access, Education & Government Cable TV Channel. In the video, City Administrator Jenna Tuma and directors from each department present highlights of the work being done across the organization as it supports the five priorities adopted by the City Council in the 2025-2027 Strategic Plan.

For additional information and ongoing updates, please visit owatonna.gov, follow City of Owatonna on Facebook, call 507.444.4300 or email info@owatonna.gov.

Proposed Police & Fire Facilities

Open House February 26 4-6 p.m. at City Hall

The City of Owatonna invites community members to attend the second of two open houses to learn more about plans to build new police and fire facilities. Around 50 people attended the first open house held on February 3 to speak with City officials, see project plans and get questions answered.

Owatonna’s current police and fire stations no longer meet modern public safety standards. Aging infrastructure, limited space and outdated systems affect safety, efficiency and emergency response — making it increasingly difficult for first responders to deliver the level of service residents deserve. The facilities being considered will meet the needs of the community and first responders into the foreseeable future.

Over the past two years, the City has carefully evaluated public safety needs and developed a long‑term plan to address existing challenges by building a new fire station on the site of the current Law Enforcement Center and a new police station on the West Hills Campus. These locations were selected to support efficient operations, fast emergency response and responsible use of taxpayer dollars by building on properties already owned by the City.

To learn more about the challenges with the current police and fire facilities, the status of the project or to estimate potential tax impact, visit Owatonna.gov/psf.