5 Must-Know Updates From The New Ulm Journal MN: Local Politics, Housing Boom, And Key Staff Changes
The New Ulm Journal (NUJ) remains the essential daily source for local news, sports, and community happenings across Brown County, Minnesota, and its surrounding areas. As of today, December 22, 2025, the paper is deeply embedded in covering major local political races, significant infrastructure funding decisions, and the ongoing cultural life of New Ulm, maintaining its role as a critical voice for the region.
For over a century, the *Journal* has chronicled the evolution of this historic German-American community. The paper continues to deliver fresh, hyper-local reporting that impacts the daily lives of its readers, from city council decisions and school board actions to the latest in agribusiness and regional court news. Its commitment to local excellence recently earned the staff a prestigious Minnesota Newspaper Association (MNA) award.
The New Ulm Journal: A Profile and Historical Snapshot
The *New Ulm Journal* is not just a newspaper; it is a long-standing institution with roots stretching back to the late 19th century. Its history is closely tied to the development of New Ulm and Brown County, providing a continuous narrative of the region's growth and challenges.
- Current Owner: Ogden Newspapers of Minnesota, Inc.
- Type: English-language daily newspaper
- Founding Lineage: The paper’s heritage begins with the *Brown County Journal*, which was first published weekly in October 1898.
- Name Change: The *Brown County Journal* was officially renamed the *New Ulm Daily Journal* in July 1937, cementing its status as the area’s primary daily source.
- Location: 303 North Minnesota Street, New Ulm, MN 56073
- Approximate Circulation: The paper maintains a strong readership, with Sunday circulation figures around 9,291 and daily circulation at approximately 8,721.
- Key Personnel: The current leadership includes Eli Lutgens, who serves as both Publisher and Editor, and Clay Schuldt, the News Editor.
The 5 Biggest Local Stories Dominating The Journal’s Pages Right Now
The *New Ulm Journal* is currently focused on several high-impact stories that will shape the future of New Ulm and Brown County throughout 2026 and beyond. From local politics to infrastructure and cultural events, these are the critical developments being reported.
1. City Council President Enters Key Minnesota Senate Race
One of the most significant political stories is the announcement that New Ulm City Council President Andrea Boettger is running for the Minnesota Senate in District 15. This development puts a major local figure into a key regional race, ensuring the *Journal* will be the primary source for campaign coverage, candidate debates, and voter analysis in the coming months.
The race is expected to focus heavily on issues critical to the region, including rural healthcare, education funding, and economic development. Boettger's city council experience gives her a deep understanding of the local concerns that resonate with *Journal* readers.
2. Approval of the 2026 School Tax Levy and Budget
The New Ulm School Board recently made a crucial financial decision by voting to certify the 2026 tax levy. This action sets the local property tax rates that will fund the New Ulm Public School District’s operations for the next fiscal year. The approved levy, which is a major point of discussion among taxpayers and parents, is a central focus of the *Journal*'s financial reporting.
The paper's coverage includes detailed analysis from the District’s business service manager, Mathew Moline, ensuring transparency on how the $8.92 million tax levy will be allocated across various school programs and capital improvements.
3. Brown County Secures Transportation Sales Tax Continuation
In a major win for local infrastructure, the Brown County Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution to continue the half percent local option sales tax dedicated to transportation. This decision ensures a steady, dedicated funding stream for maintaining and improving county roads, bridges, and other essential infrastructure projects.
The *Journal*'s reporting on the County Commissioners’ meeting highlighted the long-term benefits of the sales tax, which is crucial for a region dependent on agriculture and efficient transport routes. This financial stability is a key factor in the area’s economic outlook.
4. New Ulm’s Housing Development Progress and Future Growth
New Ulm City Manager Chris Dalton has cited housing as the city's greatest source of progress in 2024 and 2025, a topic the *Journal* covers extensively. The city is seeing multiple housing developments on the rise, addressing a long-standing need for more residential options. This construction boom is vital for attracting and retaining new families and workers to the community.
The paper’s coverage provides updates on the specific developments, the impact on property values, and the city’s overall strategy for managing this growth. The availability of housing remains a top concern for local businesses looking to expand their workforce.
5. Cultural Continuity: The Makatoh Reconciliation Horse Riders
Beyond politics and finance, the *Journal* is dedicated to covering the area's rich cultural tapestry. A notable annual event is the passage of the Makatoh Reconciliation and Healing horse riders. The paper reported that, in a repeat of previous years, the riders will travel through New Ulm on Christmas Eve, December 24.
This event is a powerful symbol of regional history and reconciliation, and the *Journal*'s consistent coverage helps to preserve and share the significance of this important cultural journey with the broader community.
The Journal’s Dedication to Local Excellence and Topical Authority
The *New Ulm Journal*'s strength lies in its comprehensive coverage of diverse, hyper-local topics, establishing its topical authority across multiple domains relevant to its readership. The paper’s regular sections—which include Police Logs, Court News, Agribusiness, and MN State News—ensure no aspect of local life goes unexamined.
Recognizing Editorial Achievement
The quality of the *Journal*'s reporting has been formally recognized. The entire staff, under the leadership of News Editor Clay Schuldt, was awarded third place for General Excellence for a multi-day paper by the Minnesota Newspaper Association (MNA). This award is a testament to the team's commitment to high journalistic standards and their ability to deliver consistent quality across a wide range of subjects.
Covering State-Level Debates
In addition to local governance, the *Journal* provides crucial context on state-level issues that directly affect New Ulm residents. Recent editorial content has tackled the complexities of property tax reform across the U.S. and, more locally, the impact of recent changes in Minnesota statute regarding the banning of books from public libraries. By connecting state legislation to local community impact, the *Journal* ensures its readers are well-informed on broader political currents.
The *New Ulm Journal* continues to serve as an indispensable resource for anyone living in or interested in Brown County. Its focus on current, relevant news—from the Minnesota Senate race to the 2026 tax levy and local housing developments—solidifies its position as the premier source of news for the New Ulm community.
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