Caledonia Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official Caledonia, Minnesota government websites.

  About Caledonia City Government
Annual Budget $2.5 million

The city government of Caledonia, Minnesota operates under a Mayor-Council system, specifically known as the Caledonia City Council. This governing body consists of five members: the Mayor and four Council members. The Mayor is elected at-large for a two-year term, while the Council members are elected from specific wards for four-year terms.

For the fiscal year 2023, the approximate annual operating budget for the City of Caledonia is $2.5 million. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives.

Regular city council meetings are held on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 6:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Caledonia City Hall, located at 111 East Main Street, Caledonia, MN 55921. Residents are encouraged to attend to stay informed about local governance and community issues.

  About Caledonia, Minnesota

Nestled in the southeastern corner of Minnesota, Caledonia serves as the vibrant hub of Houston County, with a population of approximately 2,970 residents, according to recent Census estimates. This charming city, founded in 1855, boasts a rich history and a welcoming community atmosphere. Caledonia's landscape features several distinct neighborhoods, each with its unique character, including the picturesque downtown area filled with local shops and eateries, as well as residential communities that showcase the city's Midwestern charm. Caledonia's economy thrives on a diverse mix of agriculture, healthcare, and education, bolstered by major employers such as the Caledonia Area School District and local healthcare facilities like the Caledonia Care and Rehabilitation. What sets Caledonia apart is not only its strong sense of community but also its commitment to preserving its historical roots while fostering growth and development in the region. With annual events and a rich cultural fabric, Caledonia stands out as a quintessential small-town Minnesota experience.

The Caledonia Police Department is charged with maintaining law and order within the city, working in conjunction with the Houston County Sheriff's Office to ensure public safety. For those seeking criminal records or relevant documents, several processes are in place. Individuals can request arrest records, mugshots, and booking records through the Caledonia Police Department by visiting the records unit, where personnel can assist with specific inquiries. Alternatively, the Houston County Sheriff’s Office also holds relevant information, including incident reports, and can be contacted for records pertaining to county-wide incidents. For a broader search on an individual’s criminal history, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) provides a state repository. Residents can access this repository online or through formal request channels. While many records can be obtained directly from local police or the sheriff’s office, it is advisable to check for online lookup portals, as they may simplify access to previously filed records.

When it comes to legal proceedings, the Houston County District Court is the primary judicial body serving Caledonia. Residents can access court records through both an online portal and the local clerk’s office, where records can be requested in person. For vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, individuals can reach out to the Houston County Clerk-Recorder or utilize the Minnesota Department of Health’s vital records service. Property records, which are essential for real estate transactions or historical inquiries, are available through the county assessor and recorder’s offices, with many documents accessible via online platforms. Lastly, general public records requests are governed by the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, allowing for transparency and access to governmental records. Typically, response times for these requests range from 5 to 10 business days, ensuring that residents can obtain necessary information in a timely manner. The commitment to accessibility and transparency in Caledonia not only enhances civic engagement but also fosters trust within the community.

About Caledonia

The city government of Caledonia, Minnesota operates under a Mayor-Council system, specifically known as the Caledonia City Council. This governing body consists of five members: the Mayor and four Council members. The Mayor is elected at-large for a two-year term, while the Council members are elected from specific wards for four-year terms. For the fiscal year 2023, the approximate annual operating budget for the City of Caledonia is $2.5 million. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives.
Regular city council meetings are held on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 6:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Caledonia City Hall, located at 111 East Main Street, Caledonia, MN 55921. Residents are encouraged to attend to stay informed about local governance and community issues.

Police Department & Arrest Records

In addition to the Houston County Sheriff's Office, the county is served by several municipal police departments, including the Caledonia Police Department, La Crescent Police Department, and Spring Grove Police Department. Each department is responsible for law enforcement within its respective city limits, handling local crimes and community policing. These agencies coordinate with the Sheriff's Office on major crimes and regional law enforcement initiatives to ensure comprehensive public safety.

Jail & Inmate Records

The Houston County Jail, located in Caledonia, is the primary detention facility for individuals arrested within the county. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal details of the detainee. Inmate information can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office, which provides an inmate lookup service. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, requiring appointments and adherence to security protocols. Bail and bond processes follow Minnesota state guidelines, allowing for the release of detainees under certain conditions.

Court Records

The Houston County District Court, located in Caledonia, handles a range of legal matters, including criminal, civil, family, and probate cases. As part of the Third Judicial District, the court provides access to case filings, criminal dockets, and court records. Residents can access these records through the court's administrative office or online portals, ensuring transparency and public access to legal proceedings.

Criminal Records

Houston County's criminal records system includes documentation of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and sex offender registry information. The Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, while the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension provides statewide background checks. Residents can request criminal background checks through the Bureau, which offers a comprehensive overview of an individual's criminal history within Minnesota.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Houston County are maintained by the Houston County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges, and booking information. Residents and attorneys can request copies of arrest records through the Sheriff's Office, subject to the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. Arrest records typically contain the individual's personal information, arrest date, charges, and any court proceedings related to the arrest.

Public Records Access

Public records in Houston County are accessible under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. The County Clerk's Office, located in Caledonia, manages vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates. The office also handles property records and other official documents. Requests for records can be made in person, by mail, or through online services, with processing times varying based on the type of record and request method.

Economy & Demographics

Houston County's economy is characterized by a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and service industries. The fertile land along the Mississippi River supports a robust agricultural sector, with dairy farming and crop production being significant contributors. Additionally, the county benefits from its proximity to larger urban centers, providing employment opportunities in manufacturing and retail. The local economy is further bolstered by tourism, with visitors drawn to the area's natural beauty and recreational activities along the river.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Caledonia, Houston County, Minnesota to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in Caledonia, Minnesota, you will be transported to the Houston County Detention Center for booking and processing. During booking, officers record personal information, take fingerprints, and photograph the arrestee. After booking, you may be held pending arraignment, or released on bail. The Houston County Inmate Search portal allows online lookup of current inmates. Contact the Houston County Clerk of Courts for case information.
The Caledonia area is served by public school districts in Houston County, Minnesota. School performance data, enrollment statistics, and district boundaries are available through the Minnesota Department of Education website. School report cards, test scores, and demographic data are published annually for all public schools.
Crime statistics for Caledonia, Minnesota are reported annually to the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting program. Local crime data including incident reports, arrest statistics, and calls for service are typically published by the Caledonia Police Department on their official website. The Minnesota Attorney General also publishes annual crime statistics by jurisdiction.
The Caledonia Public Library provides residents with access to public records research tools. Library cardholders can access online genealogy databases, historical newspaper archives, and Minnesota government document repositories. Reference librarians can assist with records requests, ancestry searches, and government document navigation.
The Caledonia Public Library main branch is located in Caledonia, Minnesota. Check the Caledonia city website or library system portal for branch addresses, hours of operation, and available services.
Fingerprinting services in Caledonia, Minnesota are available through the Caledonia Police Department and authorized IdentoGO or Fieldprint enrollment centers. Fingerprinting is required for employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, real estate), concealed carry permits, and adoption applications. Contact the Houston County Sheriff's Office or local law enforcement for walk-in fingerprinting options.
To obtain vital records in Caledonia, Minnesota, contact the Minnesota Vital Statistics Unit. Birth and death certificates can be ordered online, by mail, or in person. Marriage licenses are issued by the Houston County Clerk's office. Certified copies require valid government-issued photo ID and a processing fee. Online ordering is available through VitalCheck or the state health department portal.
Police reports from Caledonia, Minnesota can be obtained from the Caledonia Police Department or the Houston County Sheriff's Office. Submit a request in person, by mail, or online with the incident report number, date, and your identification. Under the Minnesota Data Practices Act, most incident reports are public records. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days. Traffic accident reports may also be available through the Minnesota DMV.
A background check in Caledonia, Houston County, Minnesota typically includes a review of criminal history records, arrest records, court judgments, and sex offender registry status. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards frequently request background checks. You can request a Minnesota criminal history report through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Federal background checks are available through the FBI Identity History Summary program.
  Nearby Cities in Houston County, Minnesota

Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county:

Brownsville Eitzen Hokah Houston La Crescent Spring Grove