The threat of stormy weather on Sunday, August 9^th, did not stop the Rutland Community Club-sponsored Farmers Market. A few brave vendors set up outside with tents and trailers to sell their fresh produce and homemade goods. Most of the vendors were conveniently spaced in the Hall including the stage area. Diggers BBQ served pulled pork sandwiches, hot dogs and more to go or eat at the Hall. About 100 individuals from Rutland and the surrounding area stopped in to purchase their sweet corn, green beans, garden carrots, potatoes, and more from the vendors. Although the attendance was down, most likely because of the weather, the event another success according to those who attended. The next, and last, Farmers Market for this season will be held Sunday, September 20 13th from 5 to 6 p.m. next to City Hall and the Veterans Memorial. Be sure to make it in for a great selection of produce, and home-baked and canned goods.

Members of the Rutland Community Club (RCC) met on Monday, August 10, to discuss the Rutland Block Party held on August 13^th. The Community Club will serve burgers and hot dogs for those who attend. The big event will be the water balloons and chalk art activities. ServiceMaster was contacted several months ago to provide an estimate on Hall cleaning; they came and measured but the bid has not yet been received. Hopefully, the information will be available for the September meeting. Members reviewed the selection and cost for post lights for Christmas and approved the purchase of five four-foot by four-foot stars to be on the City street lights along Main this winter. A mural is being designed to be done on the North side of the Rutland Oil building, if agreed upon with the owner. The RCC will need to pressure wash and prime the area with the goal to have a design done yet this year. Rutland T-shirts, and hopefully, sweatshirts will be available for purchase this fall. There are three designs available and order information will be out as soon as the details are finalized. The next RCC meeting will be Tuesday, September 15^th, at 5 p.m. in City Hall.

The Rutland City Council will hold the 2021 budget public hearing on Monday, September 14, starting at 5 p.m. The public hearing will then be followed by the monthly Council meeting.  The Council is still seeking one individual to serve on the City Zoning & Planning Commission for a four-year term. Member must be a resident of Rutland. Interested individuals should contact City Hall at 701-724-3081 for more information.

That’s it from Rutland. Remember, there is still time to be counted in the 2020 Census so be sure to answer the door if the Census worker knocks. You can also submit your Census online at www.2020census.gov but do so before September 30!