Elk River leaders are moving to keep Minnesota’s retired state flag flying in the city after residents backed the idea in a survey.

The Elk River City Council voted 5-0 on Monday night to draft a resolution to display the old flag instead of the new design adopted two years ago.

The move came after more than 1,000 residents responded to an online survey posted by the city. In that survey, the city says almost 75% supported displaying the old flag.

A final council vote is expected at its next meeting on the 20th.

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Other cities across the state have taken similar steps to fly the retired flag, including Champlin and Zumbrota.

The flag design turned into a political dispute when planning for a new design first began. Two years later, debates continue, with some believing the old flag celebrated the displacement of Native Americans and others embracing it due to its history.

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ST. CLOUD (WJON News) — The Women’s Fund of the Central Minnesota Community Foundation has announced this year’s ATHENA Award winner.

Lori Kloos is the 2026 recipient.

She serves as the President of the St. Cloud Technical and Community College, where she has also held other leadership roles, including Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Administration for nearly 30 years. Prior to her time at SCTCC, Kloos served as a State and Legislative Auditor for Minnesota.

In addition to her professional achievements, Kloos is actively involved in the community, serving on several local boards and committees, including Greater St. Cloud, United Way, and the St. Cloud Downtown Rotary.

The ATHENA Award is a lifetime achievement honor recognizing exceptional women leaders who inspire others to achieve excellence in both their professional and personal lives.

Kloos will be honored on June 8th at the Women’s Fund Presents: Dancing With Our Stars Live at the College of St. Benedict.