Local and Regional News, Tuesday 5/5/2026

A Fort Frances driver is facing impaired driving charges following a crash in the Rainy River District.
The Ontario Provincial Police say officers responded to a single-vehicle collision early Monday morning along Highway 71.
Following an investigation, police determined the driver had been operating the vehicle while impaired. Twenty-year-old Tehya Geyshick of Fort Frances has been charged with impaired operation and operating with a blood alcohol concentration over the legal limit.
The accused has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice at a later date.
Police continue to stress that impaired driving remains a serious risk—and remind the public to call 9-1-1 if they suspect someone is driving under the influence.

Another packed night at Hermantown City Hall, as debate continues over a proposed data center project from Google.
For months, overflow crowds have filled council chambers as residents weigh the impact of a planned 1.2 million square foot facility in the southwest part of the city. The latest issue—whether to grant a tax abatement to the developer.
Supporters point to the company’s pledge to invest heavily in infrastructure.
Chris Adatte of Duluth says the project could pay for itself and open the door to future growth.
But opponents are raising concerns about offering tax breaks to one of the world’s largest corporations—especially with key details still unclear.
Hermantown resident Emma Richtman questioned how leaders can move forward without a finalized site plan or environmental review.
In the end, the council chose to table the tax abatement vote, delaying a decision as debate in the community continues.

New information yesterday morning on caregiving support in Koochiching County, as local leaders highlight the growing need for resources tied to Alzheimer’s and dementia care.
During the latest Aging Matters program, experts say nearly 13 million Americans provide unpaid care—and many don’t even realize they’re caregivers.

Caregiver consultant Kristy Wagner-Werner says the need for assistance often stems from both cognitive and physical challenges—and the emotional toll can be significant.

Local services through Koochiching Aging Options offer one-on-one support, education, and group programs to help caregivers manage that journey.
Officials encourage anyone providing care for a loved one to reach out, noting help is available—and no one has to navigate it alone.

New concerns are being raised over a proposed copper mine near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, following the rollback of federal protections in the region.
With the passage of H.J. Resolution 140, protections tied to Public Land Order 7917 have been overturned—clearing the way for potential mineral leasing in the watershed.
That puts renewed focus on Antofagasta plc, the company behind the Twin Metals project. Recent reporting highlights a history of environmental violations and disputes tied to its operations in Chile.
Environmental groups warn sulfide-ore copper mining near interconnected waterways could pose long-term risks, with pollution potentially spreading downstream to areas like Voyageurs National Park and Canada’s Quetico Provincial Park.
Supporters say further environmental review will be required before any project moves forward, but critics argue the stakes are especially high given the location near one of the nation’s most visited wilderness areas.