May 31, 2026
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VERNON COUNTY, Wis. — Over the past week, the Driftless Region navigated a wide variety of community updates, ranging from critical municipal financial planning and infrastructure delays to public safety expansions and new housing initiatives. Our local news coverage highlighted the City of Viroqua’s efforts to manage its budget amid unexpected landfill remediation costs, the advancement of a new accessory dwelling unit ordinance to combat the housing shortage, and the Viroqua Fire Department’s proposal for a new ambulance service. We also brought you updates on local school referendums, community fundraisers like the Sleepy Hollow Ford test drive event, and the highly anticipated return of summer staples like the Music in the Parks series.
Here is a look back at the local stories carried on VernonReporter.com over the last week:
Viroqua City Administrator Nate Torres delivered what may be one of his last detailed reviews of city finances before his departure to county government, telling the Finance and Personnel Committee and the City Council that the city is on solid footing roughly a quarter of the way through the year. He noted a positive boost in investment revenue and an increase in building permits, but also pointed out the ongoing challenge of rising municipal utility costs.
De Soto Schools considering fall operational referendum
The De Soto Area School District is actively weighing the possibility of a fall operational referendum. District officials and the school board have been reviewing long-term financial projections and discussing the necessity of asking voters for additional funding to maintain current educational programming and operations amid rising costs.
Early financial reports indicate a positive turnaround for the county’s nursing homes, Vernon Manor and Vernon Acres, following their recent transition to private management. Vernon County supervisors reviewed the early signs of financial stabilization and operational improvements during a recent finance committee meeting.
In the latest installment of the Grouse Hollow Journal, local author Greg Koelker dives into regional folklore with “The True Story of the Green-Eyed Lady” and the origins of Grouse Hollow. Koelker’s column continues to captivate Driftless readers with its rich storytelling and deep appreciation for local history.
Sleepy Hollow Ford hosts test drive event in Coon Valley to fund Sunny’s Trail improvements
Sleepy Hollow Ford organized a community test drive event in Coon Valley aimed at raising funds to support local outdoor recreation. The dealership pledged financial contributions based on community participation, with all proceeds going toward much-needed improvements and ongoing maintenance for the Sunny’s Trail system.
Dairyland Power Cooperative’s 2026 Annual Meeting is Tuesday, June 2 in La Crosse
Dairyland Power Cooperative announced that its 2026 Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 2, in La Crosse. The gathering will provide cooperative members and regional stakeholders with key updates on grid operations, major energy infrastructure projects, and strategic future plans.
City of Viroqua reminds residents that No Mow May is coming to an end
As the calendar turns to June, the City of Viroqua is reminding property owners that the “No Mow May” initiative is officially coming to a close. Residents who let their lawns grow to support early-season pollinators are advised that standard lawn maintenance and city weed enforcement ordinances will resume shortly.
Vernon County Emergency Management details Westby hail relief options and department updates
Vernon County Emergency Management provided a comprehensive update on disaster relief options available to Westby residents recovering from unprecedented spring hail and wind storms. The department outlined local resources and urged affected property owners to report damages to help emergency officials assess the area’s unmet needs.
Viroqua City Council advances accessory dwelling unit (ADU) ordinance to combat housing shortage
As Viroqua continues rewriting its comprehensive plan, the Viroqua City Council advanced an ordinance to permit accessory dwelling units (ADUs) within city limits. The measure, highly recommended by the Housing Advisory Board, is designed to increase local housing inventory while preserving the character and scale of existing neighborhoods.
The St. Joseph’s Memorial Foundation announced the recipients of its 2026 scholarships, celebrating the hard work and academic dedication of local students. The announcement coincided with the foundation’s celebration of its “Field of Dreams” initiative, which supports regional healthcare advancements and community wellness programs.
Music in the Parks Return Wednesdays June, July and August
The beloved “Music in the Parks” summer concert series is set to return to Vernon County, offering free, family-friendly live music every Wednesday throughout June, July, and August. The 2026 season will officially kick off on June 4 with a performance by the Spunky Bumpkins at Sidie Hollow County Park.
Viroqua Fire Department proposes new ambulance service
The Viroqua Fire Department has introduced a proposal to establish a new, locally operated ambulance service. Fire Chief Chad Buros and department leadership have been actively exploring the operational logistics and financial requirements of the service expansion to enhance emergency medical response times for area residents.
The City of Viroqua has resumed its capital improvement planning process after progress was abruptly halted by unexpected multi-million dollar remediation costs at the old city dump. City officials were forced to reevaluate borrowing limits after learning they must install a $1 to $2 million active methane extraction system to comply with state environmental mandates.
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