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VERNON COUNTY, Wis. (AP) — Over the past week, the Driftless Region witnessed a major shift in local government leadership, targeted public health initiatives, and remarkable resilience from local businesses facing severe spring weather. Our expanded coverage also highlights serious public safety incidents, including a school bus crash and a mock crash simulation, alongside community-driven efforts like a motorcycle benefit ride, local sustainability awards, and a prescription drug take-back day. From a new ban on public firearms in county buildings to local residents pushing back against federal Medicaid changes and a massive transmission line project, we chronicled the challenges and triumphs shaping our area.
Here is a summary of the local stories we covered over the past week:
Update: School bus and semi crash on U.S. Highway 14 near Coon Valley
A school bus carrying children from the Westby School District collided with a semi-truck Thursday afternoon, April 24, on westbound U.S. Highway 14 at Brye Lane, just west of Coon Valley. The bus was transporting 10 children at the time of the crash, but Vernon County Sheriff Roy Torgerson reported that there were zero injuries among the students and drivers involved.
Vernon County Sheriff’s Office to host local sites for 2026 National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
To help fight the opioid epidemic, the Vernon County Sheriff’s Office hosted two local collection sites on Saturday, April 25, as part of the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The national event offers a free, safe, and responsible way for community members to dispose of unused or expired prescription medications.
In a season marked by severe thunderstorms, hail, tornado warnings, and freezing nights, one local small business is demonstrating what small businesses do best: adapting and persevering. Second Nature at Reads Creek is continuing to show up for the Readstown community by offering a place to gather at the Hidden Destination Nursery, providing a welcoming and safe space for residents dealing with the turbulent spring weather.
Vernon County approves grant for vaccine awareness campaign
Vernon County currently has one of the lowest vaccination rates in the state at around 38 percent. To combat these falling childhood vaccination rates, Vernon County Public Health Director Amy Kleiber requested and received approval from the Vernon County Board of Supervisors during its April 21 meeting to apply for state funding. The $2,400 grant from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services will fund a local media campaign, allowing the county to purchase billboards and clinic flyers encouraging residents to talk with their healthcare providers about vaccines.
In a major leadership shift for local government, Vernon County has officially hired Viroqua City Administrator Nate Torres. The move successfully fills the county’s central executive vacancy, pulling Torres away from his city administration role to serve as the new Vernon County administrative coordinator.
New Viroqua Mayor Krista Browne and council sworn in as city administrator moves to the county
Following her victory in the spring election, new Viroqua Mayor Krista Browne and the city council were officially sworn into office. The transition in elected city leadership comes during a period of significant administrative turnover, as the city also prepares for the departure of its city administrator to the county government.
Vernon County Board narrowly re-elects Goede as chair as new term begins
As the new term officially began, the Vernon County Board of Supervisors held its organizational meeting to determine its leadership. In a closely contested decision, the board narrowly voted to re-elect Lorn Goede to serve as the County Board Chair for the upcoming term.
Emplify Health by Gundersen Hillsboro offering build your own garden kits
As part of an ongoing effort to promote community wellness, Emplify Health by Gundersen Hillsboro is offering “build your own garden” kits to local residents. The initiative aims to encourage healthy eating and hands-on agricultural activities for families in the area.
Motorcycle ride to benefit Viroqua boy with complex medical needs
The local community is rallying around nine-year-old Tucker Lovelace of Viroqua, a young boy living with complex medical needs. A motorcycle benefit ride is being organized to help support him and his family as they navigate his ongoing medical care.
Mock crash simulation at Westby Area High School highlights dangers of impaired driving
To proactively educate students on the severe consequences of drinking and driving ahead of prom and graduation season, Westby Area High School hosted a mock crash simulation. The dramatic reenactment involved local emergency responders and aimed to vividly demonstrate the life-altering impacts of impaired driving.
Nine organizations honored at inaugural Driftless Region Sustainability Awards
The inaugural Driftless Region Sustainability Awards celebrated local efforts to protect the environment and build a greener future. Nine different organizations were honored for their outstanding contributions and innovative practices that promote sustainability across the Driftless area.
Vernon County Board approves ban on public carrying firearms in county buildings
Prompted by a heated moment with a member of the public at a county meeting earlier this year, the Vernon County Board of Supervisors officially approved an ordinance banning the public from carrying firearms inside county buildings. The measure aims to improve security while the county simultaneously works on internal policies allowing trained county employees to carry concealed weapons at work.
U.S. Congressman Derrick Van Orden, representing Wisconsin’s 3rd District, expressed uncertainty about his re-election prospects during a recent update. He also strongly criticized a recent Virginia redistricting vote, labeling the legislative process a “sham”.
Vernon County Board of Supervisors votes to approve $4.9 million in new borrowing
Faced with strict state levy limits and the escalating costs of health insurance, fuel, and road repairs, the Vernon County Board of Supervisors approved a $4.9 million bond sale. The new borrowing is aimed at financing essential capital projects and maintaining operations without exceeding state-mandated property tax constraints.
Hiking challenge inspires exploration of Driftless area nature preserves
A new hiking challenge is encouraging residents and visitors to lace up their boots and explore the scenic beauty of the Driftless Area. The initiative aims to get people outdoors to discover the region’s diverse nature preserves and unique landscapes.
Amid growing pushback against a proposed “mega-scale” transmission project, members of the Scenic Rivers Energy Cooperative unanimously approved a resolution demanding clearer answers and more detailed information about the 765-kilovolt MariBell transmission line.
Holmen Medicaid recipient says impending federal changes are a ‘death warrant’
A Holmen resident who relies on Medicaid has spoken out against impending federal changes to the program, describing the potential cuts to their healthcare coverage as a “death warrant”. The concerns highlight the severe local anxiety surrounding proposed national healthcare policy shifts.
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