Could have been worse

We're not sure it's a good thing, but at least it's not bad, or as bad as it could be. In any case, school funding will remain flat for the next two years in Minnesota. That means schools districts, including those in the area, will not be forced into drastic cuts beyond those they have already made to balance their budgets.

Schools are a primary responsibility of state government and deserve to be prioritized as such. We reckon that flat funding represents that priority when other areas of the state budget will face cuts.

Cities, counties brace

Speaking of cuts, cities and counties are bracing themselves, with cities anticipating significant cuts in local government aid from the state. What this will mean is that cities must put off some projects, or repairs, consider property tax increases and continue to prioritize their own spending. But it won't be easy.

Citizens, including those locally, have become used to certain services at a certain price. Both may have to change. City Council meetings in the coming year will be opportunities for the public to speak out about its desires.

Fairmont gets a break

In the meantime, we congratulate the city of Fairmont, as well as state Sen. Julie Rosen and state Rep. Bob Gunther, for getting legislative action this year on the city's police pension fund.

Fairmont faced the prospect of having to quickly come up with $2 million to fully fund the pension account, a benefit that is a remnant of a long-since-ended pension system. Instead, the city got a 10-year extension on fulfilling its obligation, meaning a significant annual savings and quite a relief for city leaders.

Trouble in Lewisville

There is a real tragedy involved in the recent loss of buildings to fire in Lewisville, and we're not talking so much about the destruction of property. It is truly disheartening to see the arrests of two youth, ages 12 and 13, who now face felony arson charges.

We understand that kids don't always make the best choices, but it's rare indeed in our area to see people this young in so much trouble. We hope this serves as a lesson and warning - to children, parents and others - about consequences.

And we hope these two kids involved, and their families, can find something redeeming in what lies ahead for them.