Luverne will soon welcome a victim services officer to its police force, according to Mayor Joe Rex Sport.

Sport told the city council on Monday that the police department had received approval for a grant through the state's attorney general's office to hire the officer, who will be responsible for providing emotional support to victims of crime, be it rape, murder, theft or sexual abuse. Sport said the city has interviewed a number of qualified applicants and the position would be filled shortly. Candidates were made aware that renewal of the grant is subject to the state and that the job is temporary.

"It's an 18-month job," he said. "We plan on filling the position by Sept. 1."

City Engineer Morris Tate told council members that permits would be in hand this week from the state to begin work on the downtown revitalization project. The city, said Tate, can then advertise for bids on the project, which is expected to cost $600,000.

Sport said he's also looking at having a Luverne city flag designed, which could involve modifying the current centennial flag in town hall. The flag is white and blue, with two clasped hands and the slogan, "The Friendly City."

"I think it would be appropriate to have one," said Sport. "It would be good for public relations."