May 24, 2026
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VERNON COUNTY, Wis. — Over the past week, the Driftless Region navigated a wide variety of community milestones, local government challenges, and engaging local events. Our coverage highlighted significant transitions, from the grand reopening of a 40-year-old local business staple to new legal battles over a proposed regional transmission line. We also brought attention to pressing county financial issues, including rising overtime trends and tax cases, alongside efforts to gather community input for Viroqua’s next city administrator. As always, our reporting kept you informed on public safety updates, environmental studies, and local library initiatives shaping our community.
Here is a look back at the local stories carried on VernonReporter.com, starting with the most recent:
The Cheese Corner celebrates forty-years with founder at Grand Reopening event
The Viroqua community celebrated the grand reopening of The Cheese Corner, marking forty years in business with its founder present. The beloved local deli officially transitioned ownership from the Vernon Area Rehabilitation Center (VARC) to local brothers Steve and Nate Campbell, who aim to keep the establishment’s long-standing legacy alive.
In the latest installment of the Grouse Hollow Journal, lifelong Driftless resident and author Greg Koelker shares fond reflections on growing up on Irish Ridge. Koelker’s column captures the nostalgia of brats, baseball, and the enduring traditions that bind the rural community together.
Stuff the Bus Vernon County launches registration for 2026-2027 school year
As families prepare for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year, the McIntosh Memorial Library of Viroqua announced the return of “Stuff the Bus Vernon County”. Registration is now open for the vital community initiative, which is dedicated to ensuring every child has free access to the school supplies they need to succeed in the classroom.
Vernon County tax cases and overtime trends loom as county attorney, administrator changes near
Vernon County supervisors spent a wide-ranging Finance Committee meeting wrestling with how to manage new borrowing, nagging old tax debts, and rising payroll costs. The county’s financial deliberations come during a period of significant administrative turnover, as officials prepare for impending changes to the county attorney and administrative coordinator roles.
Viroqua Chamber Business Showcase heads to Second Nature at Reeds Creek on May 19
The Viroqua Chamber of Commerce organized its latest Business Showcase, giving local entrepreneurs and community members a chance to network and collaborate. This gathering was hosted at Second Nature at Reads Creek, highlighting the local nursery’s role as a beautiful community gathering space.
10th annual Vernon County Reads begins June 1
Vernon County public libraries announced that Wisconsin author Susan Apps-Bodilly will be the featured author for the 10th annual Vernon County Reads adult reading program. The program kicks off on June 1 at all participating libraries and will conclude with an August presentation by Apps-Bodilly at the Westby Area Performing Arts Center where she will speak about her books and working alongside her father, Jerry Apps.
Vernon County Sheriff’s Report for the week ending Saturday, May 16, 2026
The Vernon County Sheriff’s Office released its weekly report detailing ongoing law enforcement activities and emergency responses across the county. Notably, deputies and Westby Police intercepted a driver weaving on State Highway 27, resulting in an arrest for Operating While Under the Influence.
Tensions regarding the use and funding of the county’s corporation counsel boiled over into a full Vernon County Board of Supervisors meeting. The contentious debate highlighted deep divisions among county supervisors over contracted legal services, ultimately following the previous decision by Corporation Counsel Nikki Swayne to step down from her role.
Local landowners file lawsuit to stop MariBell transmission line project
In a major escalation against the proposed MariBell transmission line, local landowners have officially filed a lawsuit in an attempt to halt the project. The legal action reflects mounting grassroots opposition to the massive high-voltage power line slated to cut through the Driftless Area.
Driftless Area Water Study (DAWS) to reveal regional well testing results
The Conservation and Health Departments of Crawford, Richland, and Vernon Counties announced the latest phase of the Driftless Area Water Study (DAWS). The regional initiative provides comprehensive, free groundwater testing for 400 households across the three-county area to monitor water quality and identify potential contamination.
De Soto Public Library friends group seeking board members
The De Soto Public Library’s friends group put out a call to the community seeking new board members. The volunteer organization is looking for dedicated local residents to help support the library’s programming, fundraising, and ongoing community outreach efforts.
3rd Congressional District Democrats say they’ll represent regular people better than Van Orden
Democratic candidates vying for Wisconsin’s 3rd Congressional District seat are making their pitch to voters, emphasizing their commitment to representing everyday citizens. The candidates argue that their grassroots focus makes them better suited to serve the district than incumbent Republican Representative Derrick Van Orden.
Viroqua seeks resident input in search for next city administrator
As Viroqua prepares for a major leadership transition, city officials are actively seeking input from residents in the search for the next city administrator. The effort aims to ensure that the community’s voice is heard as the city council works with an outside recruitment firm to find the right candidate for the top executive role.
McIntosh Memorial Library to host ‘Into the Wild with Matt and Julie Emslie’
The McIntosh Memorial Library invited the community to a special presentation titled “Into the Wild with Matt and Julie Emslie”. The event offered patrons a chance to hear captivating stories and insights from the Emslies’ outdoor adventures and nature explorations.
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