About Wells

Historically, Wells was established in the late 19th century and became a significant shipping point for agricultural products due to its strategic location along the railroad. The city has a strong economic foundation rooted in agriculture, with local farms contributing significantly to the regional economy. In recent years, Wells has also focused on community development initiatives to enhance the quality of life for its residents, including infrastructure improvements and community events that foster local engagement.

ELECTION HUB for Wells, Minnesota voters: The Faribault County Auditor-Treasurer's Office administers elections for Wells voters. The office is located at 415 3rd St NW, Blue Earth, MN 56013. Residents can reach them at (507) 526-6213 or visit www.co.faribault.mn.us/departments/auditor-treasurer. Voter registration is available online at mnvotes.org, though residents must register at least 21 days before an election. Registration requires a valid Minnesota driver's license, learner's permit, or state ID card. Municipal elections in the city cover the mayor and city council positions.

Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement in Wells

Faribault County Sheriff's Office

Faribault County Sheriff's Office · 320 Dr. H. Russ St. Blue Earth, MN 56013 · United States · See map: Google Maps · Scott Adams · (507) 526-5148 Ext 2121 · Missy Sonnek · (507) 526-5148 Ext 2151 · Jason Casias · (507) 526-5148 Ext 2156 · Erin Beske ·

https://www.co.faribault.mn.us/sheriffs-office/pages/staff-contacts

⚖️ Courts & Case Records in Wells

Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO)

Four search tabs are available to help users access court records and documents: Case Search allows users to search for court cases by person name, business name, attorney name, case number, citation number, or attorney bar number. It also provides access to a Register of Actions and the public documents available online in each case. Document Search allows users to search by case number to find public documents in court cases that are available online.

🔗 https://www.mncourts.gov/Access-Case-Records/MCRO.aspx

🏠 Property & Public Records in Wells

Real estate recording information | Hennepin County

The State of Minnesota maintains this real property sales data. An eCRV is required with the recording of any deed with a taxable consideration of $3,000 ore more. Electronic certificate of real estate value (eCRV) The Minnesota Department of Health maintains records on the state of wells, including Well disclosure certificates.

🔗 https://www.hennepin.us/en/residents/property/real-estate-recording-information

Public Records & Services in Wells

Public Schools

Official source: NCES Public School District Search
  • 🎓Public schools are administered by local school districts under state Department of Education oversight.
  • 📊School performance data, enrollment, and district boundaries are published by the state Department of Education and the National Center for Education Statistics (nces.ed.gov).
  • 📞Contact the local district office for enrollment, transcripts, or attendance records.
Public schools in Wells, Faribault County, Minnesota are administered by the local school district. For information about school enrollment, academic performance, and school ratings, residents should contact the Faribault County school administration or the Minnesota Department of Education. School district boundaries, student-teacher ratios, and test scores are available through the National Center for Education Statistics at nces.ed.gov.

Crime Data & Statistics

Official source: FBI Crime Data Explorer Crime data for Wells, Faribault County, Minnesota is maintained by local law enforcement agencies. The Faribault County Sheriff's Office and local police departments report crime statistics to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program. Residents can access crime data through the FBI Crime Data Explorer or by contacting local law enforcement directly. For specific crime reports or incident data, submit a public records request to the Wells police department or the Faribault County Sheriff's Office.

Public Library Records Access

Official source: IMLS Library Search & Compare
  • 📚Public libraries provide free access to online databases, historical archives, and government-document collections.
  • 🔎Many libraries offer remote access to property records, court records, and genealogy resources with a valid library card.
  • 👤Reference librarians can assist with research, document retrieval, and government-records lookups.
The Wells Public Library provides access to various public records resources including online databases, historical archives, and government document collections. Library patrons can access property records, court records, and genealogy resources through the library's reference section. The Faribault County library system may offer additional branches and digital resources. Contact the library directly for hours, available databases, and research assistance.

Fingerprinting Services

Official source: FBI Identity History Summary Checks
  • 👆Fingerprinting for background checks, professional licensing, and employment screening is offered by local police and authorized providers.
  • 📅Most agencies require appointments; walk-in hours and fees vary by location.
  • 🪪Bring valid government-issued photo ID; some agencies accept fingerprint cards mailed in for processing.
Fingerprinting services for Wells, Minnesota residents are available through local police (where present) and authorized third-party providers in Faribault County. Fingerprinting is commonly required for background checks, professional licensing, employment screening, and immigration applications. Contact the Wells Police Department or the Faribault County Sheriff's Office for scheduling, fees, and required documentation. The Minnesota Attorney General or state police may also process fingerprint-based background checks.

About Wells — In Depth

Jail & Inmate Records

The primary detention facility for the county is the Faribault County Jail in Blue Earth. When someone is booked, they undergo fingerprinting and photographing while staff record their personal information. The public can search for current detainees through an online database maintained by the facility. Visitation requires advance appointments and strict adherence to security protocols. Bond and bail procedures follow Minnesota state guidelines, which determine the conditions under which individuals may be released while awaiting trial.

Arrest Records

The Faribault County Sheriff's Office is the central repository for arrest records throughout Faribault County. These documents contain the circumstances of each arrest, formal charges filed, and identifying information about the person arrested. Anyone seeking these records - whether residents or attorneys - must contact the Sheriff's Office directly and follow procedures outlined in the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. Typical records include the arrest date, specific charges, and the name of the arresting officer.

Criminal Records

Criminal records in Faribault County cover felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and sex offender registry information. Residents can conduct background checks through the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, which provides statewide criminal history information. The Bureau offers an online portal for easy access to criminal records, for openness and public safety.

Vital Records

The City of Wells maintains vital records for the community, including birth, marriage, and death certificates. These records can be obtained through the City Clerk's office. The Wells Public Library also is a resource for genealogical research, providing access to historical records and documents related to the city and its residents. Individuals can visit the library or the city's website at http://www.cityofwells.net/index.php/library to access these vital records.

Business & Licensing Records

The Wells Area Chamber of Commerce at http://www.wellsareachamber.com/ is a central resource for the city's business community and entrepreneurs. The organization provides information on local commerce, economic development initiatives, and community events throughout the year. Those needing public records related to business licensing, permits, and other commercial activities can obtain them through the City of Wells website or directly from Faribault County government offices.

Economy & Demographics

Wells, Faribault County, Minnesota has a diverse economy that is heavily influenced by its agricultural roots. Public records related to the city's economic activities, such as business licenses, property tax assessments, and economic development initiatives, can be accessed through the City of Wells and Faribault County government websites. The Wells Area Chamber of Commerce also is a valuable resource for information on the local business community and economic trends within the city.

Elections & Voter Records

ELECTION HUB for Wells, Minnesota voters: The Faribault County Auditor-Treasurer's Office administers elections for Wells voters. The office is located at 415 3rd St NW, Blue Earth, MN 56013. Residents can reach them at (507) 526-6213 or visit www.co.faribault.mn.us/departments/auditor-treasurer. Voter registration is available online at mnvotes.org, though residents must register at least 21 days before an election. Registration requires a valid Minnesota driver's license, learner's permit, or state ID card. Municipal elections in the city cover the mayor and city council positions.
These contests take place in November of even-numbered years, with candidate information posted at wellsmn.us. Polling place locations can be found at pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us. Minnesota law designates several election records as public information: voter registration data, absentee ballot applications and envelopes, polling place rosters, and precinct-level results. Requests for these materials go through the Faribault County Auditor-Treasurer's Office U.S. Senate, U.S. House, Minnesota Governor, and various state and local offices to the ballot. Absentee voting in Minnesota is available to any registered voter who requests a ballot by mail or in person up to 46 days before an election. Completed ballots must reach the Faribault County elections office by 8 PM on Election Day.
City Info
StateMinnesota
CountyFaribault
Population2,317

Frequently Asked Questions

To register to vote in Wells, Minnesota, residents can register online through the Minnesota Secretary of State's website, by mail, or in person at the Faribault County elections office. Minnesota requires voters to be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and residents of the state. The registration deadline is typically 30 days before an election. Voters can verify their registration status and find polling locations through the Minnesota Secretary of State's voter lookup tool. For local municipal elections in Wells, contact the Faribault County Clerk's office for schedules and ballot information.
The City of Wells maintains a full public records system, providing access to a wide range of municipal documents and information. Residents and the public can access city council meeting minutes, ordinances, and other official records through the city's website at http://www.cityofwells.net/. The Faribault County government also offers public records related to the city, such as property assessments and tax information, through the County Courthouse at http://www.cityofwells.net/index.php/city-hall.
The Wells Chamber of Commerce, located at http://www.wellsareachamber.com/, is a valuable resource for businesses and entrepreneurs in the city. The Chamber provides information on local businesses, economic development opportunities, and community events. Residents and businesses can also access public records related to licensing, permitting, and other commercial activities through the City of Wells website and the Faribault County government.