Sarah Ritter
Reporter
North MetroSarah Ritter is the north metro reporter for the Minnesota Star Tribune. An Illinois native, she previously covered local government and education for The Kansas City Star.
Latest from Sarah Ritter
After one of the darkest days in state history, Minnesotans wonder: Is this who we are now?
The shock and sorrow of Saturday’s killings have given way to questions about Minnesota’s political culture.
June 16, 2025
Pickleball noise serves up drama, police calls in Twin Cities suburbs
As pickleball has exploded in popularity, it has sparked noise complaints, petitions and neighborhood feuds.
June 14, 2025
Judge rules Blaine can cut neighboring city from its water system amid contamination concerns
The ruling follows a decades-long saga about control over the water supply for thousands of north metro residents.
June 10, 2025
Animal rights activists, Blaine pet store owner clash as more suburbs ban shops from selling cats or dogs
The activists are pushing for a statewide law to crack down on puppy mills.
June 9, 2025
St. Paul fire inspector charged with kidnapping, solicitation
James Allen Thomas faces felony charges alleging he tried to sexually assault a 13-year-old middle schooler.
June 9, 2025
Hot, dry weather challenges wildfire suppression efforts in northeastern Minnesota
Major wildfires that have ripped through northeastern Minnesota are largely contained. But the warm weather comes with a high fire risk.
June 1, 2025
![Firefighters Joshua Donahue, Chris Schlosser, Jon Settergren, Michael Hemmerich, left to right, move debris and water down hot spots in the smoldered remains of a structure as part of the efforts to combat the Camp House wildfire in Brimson, Minn. on Thursday, May 15, 2025. ]
ALEX KORMANN • alex.kormann@startribune.com](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/BANFVOHWPZEAHLMJFLDNBOQIRU.jpg?&w=252&ar=3:2&fit=crop)
Brooklyn Park public works director resigns after indictment on felony rape charges
The city employee has been on paid leave since he was arrested in Atlanta in September.
May 29, 2025
Resident’s plan to build backyard dwelling for homeless family prompts Blaine to rethink rules
Blaine allowed accessory dwelling units. But when a resident asked to build one for a homeless family, the City Council hit pause on the idea.
May 26, 2025
St. Paul fire inspector charged with kidnapping, solicitation
James Allen Thomas faces felony charges alleging he tried to sexually assault a 13-year-old middle schooler.
June 9, 2025
Hot, dry weather challenges wildfire suppression efforts in northeastern Minnesota
Major wildfires that have ripped through northeastern Minnesota are largely contained. But the warm weather comes with a high fire risk.
June 1, 2025
Brooklyn Park public works director resigns after indictment on felony rape charges
The city employee has been on paid leave since he was arrested in Atlanta in September.
May 29, 2025
Resident’s plan to build backyard dwelling for homeless family prompts Blaine to rethink rules
Blaine allowed accessory dwelling units. But when a resident asked to build one for a homeless family, the City Council hit pause on the idea.
May 26, 2025