Dakota County public meetings in 2024

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider the 2025 budget, the 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program, and the 2025 property tax levy. The meeting also includes votes on several 2025-2026 labor agreements and various infrastructure contracts.

• Certification of 2025 Property Tax Levy and adoption of 2025 Budget
• 2025-2026 labor agreements with Human Services Supervisors’ Association, Teamsters Local 120, and County Attorney Employee’s Association
• Trunk Highway 52 intersection improvements at County State Aid Highway 32
• Safe Routes To Schools Program grant for 80th Street East in Inver Grove Heights
• Contract with Cask NX LLC for a replacement IT service management system

The board adopted the 2025 Dakota County budget of $523,148,132 with a property tax levy of $167,648,832, and the 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program of $838,067,425, by a 5-2 vote. The board also approved numerous consent agenda items, including grants, contracts, and policy updates, all by unanimous votes.

• Adopted 2025 budget of $523,148,132 and property tax levy of $167,648,832 (5-2)
• Adopted 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program of $838,067,425 (5-2)
• Approved $1,427,179 in public health grants from MN Dept. of Health (7-0)
• Approved $1,694,916 Strong Foundations grant for home visiting (7-0)
• Authorized $557,079 contract with Cask NX LLC for IT service management (7-0)
• Approved $7,000,000 ARPA funds for Energy Improvements Initiative (7-0)
• Certified $990,832 Vermillion River Watershed tax levy for 2025 (7-0)
• Accepted $796,054 library donation from estate of Elizabeth Kolstad (7-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Dakota County Regional Railroad Authority will consider certifying its 2025 property tax levy and adopting the 2025 budget. The meeting also includes approval of prior meeting minutes and other routine business.

• Certification of Dakota County Regional Railroad Authority Property Tax Levy and Adoption of Budget for 2025

The Dakota County Regional Railroad Authority unanimously approved its 2025 property tax levy of $0, an operating budget of $57,469, and a capital improvement program budget of $600,000. The consent agenda, including approval of the September 24, 2024 minutes, was also approved. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved 2025 property tax levy of $0 (7-0)
• Adopted 2025 operating budget of $57,469 (7-0)
• Adopted 2025 Capital Improvement Program budget of $600,000 (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes of September 24, 2024 meeting (7-0)

Board Workshop

The Dakota County Board will hold a workshop to discuss organizational topics and strategic planning for 2025. The meeting is scheduled for December 6, 2024, at the Schaar's Bluff Gathering Center.

• County Board Organizational and Strategic Workshop
• Introduction and Overview of Organizational Topics
• Introduction and Overview of Strategic Planning

Board of Commissioners

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings on 2025 off-sale intoxicating liquor licenses, eligible transportation sales tax fund projects, and the 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program budget. The board also considers consent agenda items including labor agreements with multiple unions, contracts for park restoration and social services, and property acquisitions in closed session.

• Public hearing on 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program Budget
• Authorization to execute 2025-2026 labor agreements with AFSCME Local 306, 450, 693 and Law Enforcement Labor Services
• Authorization to award bid and contract for Church’s Woods Restoration and Enhancement Project with RES Great Lakes, LLC
• Authorization to execute joint powers agreement with Minnesota Zoological Board for native prairie hay to feed zoo animals
• Closed executive session for legal strategy on property acquisitions in Lakeville and Inver Grove Heights

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners approved multiple resolutions during its December 3, 2024 meeting, including a $2,250,000 settlement in the wrongful death lawsuit Tory Hart v. Dakota County et al. The Board also approved 2025 intoxicating liquor licenses, dedicated transportation sales and use tax funds to eligible projects, adopted the 2025 Merit Compensation Policy, and approved several labor agreements and property acquisitions.

• Approved 2025 off-sale and on-sale intoxicating liquor licenses (6-0)
• Dedicated proceeds of the Dakota County Transportation Sales and Use Tax to enumerated projects (6-0)
• Approved Planning Commission's 2025 Work Plan (6-0)
• Executed joint powers agreement with Minnesota Zoological Board for native prairie hay (6-0)
• Awarded contract to RES Great Lakes, LLC for Church’s Woods Restoration and Enhancement project (6-0)
• Approved settlement with Lakeville 2004, LLC for Parcel 13 property rights for $72,259.97 (6-0)
• Approved settlement with R & M Holdings, LLC ($810,000) and 10900 Rich Valley, LLC ($35,000) for CP 32-65 (6-0)
• Approved a $2,250,000 settlement in the lawsuit Tory Hart v. Dakota County et al. (5-1)

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole will discuss updates on the obligation of American Rescue Plan Act funds, a multi-county residential opinion survey, and a Heritage Trail interpretive loop pilot project. The committee is also set to approve revisions to flex leave and compensation policies, as well as bylaws for the Library Advisory Committee. Any actions taken by this committee are recommendations to the Dakota County Board.

• Approval of revisions to Policy 3241 (Flex Leave) and Policy 3160 (Compensation Guidelines)
• Approval of Library Advisory Committee Bylaws
• Update on Heritage Trail Interpretive Loop Pilot Project
• Update on Multi-County 2025 Residential Opinion Survey Project
• Update on obligation of American Rescue Plan Act funding

The General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole approved revisions to two county human resources policies (Flex Leave and Compensation Guidelines) and amendments to the Library Advisory Committee bylaws. Both items were recommended for action by the full County Board on December 17, 2024. All other agenda items were informational only, with no action taken.

• Approved revisions to Policy 3241 (Flex Leave) and Policy 3160 (Compensation Guidelines) (6-0)
• Approved amendments to Library Advisory Committee bylaws (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda (6-0)
• Approved minutes of November 12, 2024 meeting (6-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing to receive comments on the proposed 2025 county budget and tax levy. No other items are on the agenda beyond procedural approvals and adjournment.

• Public hearing to receive comments on the proposed 2025 Dakota County budget and levy

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing to receive comments regarding the proposed 2025 Dakota County budget and levy. No formal action was taken on the budget during this meeting, as the item was presented for informational purposes only.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Physical Development Committee of the Whole

The Physical Development Committee will hear an update on design alternatives for interchange improvements at County State Aid Highway 50/5 and I-35 in Lakeville. They will also consider several consent items including contracts for prairie hay supply, forest restoration, electronics recycling, and a crisis center amendment. Regular agenda items include approval of the Empire Maintenance Facility redevelopment phasing, discussion of parks cost recovery and funding strategy, and overview of the 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program, as well as discussion on acquiring the Wicklund Property in Waterford Township.

• Update on design alternatives for Hwy 50/5 & I-35 interchange improvements, Lakeville
• Conceptual phasing approval and contract amendment for Empire Maintenance Facility redevelopment
• Discussion on Parks Cost Recovery Framework and parks funding strategy
• Overview of draft 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program
• Discussion on potential acquisition of Wicklund Property in Waterford Township

The Physical Development Committee of the Whole approved several contracts and grant applications, including agreements for prairie hay harvesting, electronics recycling, and park restoration projects. The committee also authorized a $390,000 contract amendment for the Empire Maintenance Facility redevelopment and reviewed future capital improvement and park funding strategies.

• Approved $210/ton prairie hay agreement with MN Zoological Board
• Awarded Church’s Woods restoration contract to RES Great Lakes, LLC
• Approved electronics recycling contract with Dynamic Lifecycle Innovations
• Authorized $363,943.55 amendment for Crisis and Recovery Center construction
• Accepted $140,153 state grant for regional park tree planting
• Authorized $5M federal grant application for Recycling Zone Plus
• Approved 2025 Planning Commission Work Plan
• Approved $390,000 design contract increase for Empire Maintenance Facility

Community Services Committee of the Whole

The Community Services Committee of the Whole will consider recommending several consent agenda items to the County Board, including grant agreements and joint powers contracts. Two regular agenda items involve authorizing contracts using opioid settlement funds and receiving an update on community health and access.

• Authorization to execute contracts using opioid settlement funds (Item 5.1)
• Update on Community Health and Access (Item 5.2)
• Grant agreement with Legal Assistance of Dakota County, Ltd. (Item 4.2)
• Contract with Avivo for MFIP employment services (Item 4.4)
• Joint powers agreement with City of Hastings for wellness initiatives (Item 4.5)

The Dakota County Community Services Committee of the Whole approved a consent agenda with 10 items, all recommended for action by the Board of Commissioners on 12/3/2024. Key approvals include a $1.9M contract with Nexus Family Healing for youth shelter support services, a $1.2M contract with Avivo for MFIP employment services, and a $500,000 grant for disability workforce shortage efforts. One item, authorization to execute contracts using opioid settlement funds, was withdrawn by staff before the meeting and no vote was taken.

• Approved $1.9M contract with Nexus Family Healing for youth shelter support (6-0)
• Approved $1.2M contract with Avivo for MFIP employment services (6-0)
• Approved $500,000 grant from MN DHS for disability workforce shortage efforts (6-0)
• Approved $365,000 contract with Cantata Health Solutions for EHR system (5-1)
• Approved $70,995 grant agreement with Legal Assistance of Dakota County (6-0)
• Approved joint powers agreements for Sentence to Service program (6-0)
• Approved $203,890 grant for Children's Mental Health Respite Care Services (6-0)
• Withdrew item on opioid settlement funds contracts; no vote taken

Board of Commissioners

The Dakota County Board will consider several consent agenda items including right-of-way acquisitions and quick-take condemnations for highway projects in Apple Valley and Lakeville. A closed executive session is scheduled for legal strategy on acquiring property for the Lone Oak Road/CSAH 26 project in Eagan. The board will also schedule a public hearing on 2025 off-sale liquor license applications.

• Right-of-way acquisition and quick-take condemnation for County State Aid Highway 42 federal mill and overlay in Apple Valley (Project 42-172)
• Quick-take condemnation for roundabout at County State Aid Highway 50 (202nd Street West) and Hamburg Avenue in Lakeville (Project 50-37)
• Joint powers agreement with City of Eagan for design and construction of trails along county highways (Projects 31-112 and 43-057)
• Professional design service contract with HKGI for site improvements in Miesville Ravine Park Reserve
• Closed executive session for legal strategy on acquiring property from Kristin Ann Klein for Lone Oak Road/CSAH 26 project in Eagan

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners approved a $34,000 settlement with Kristin Ann Klein for property rights needed for County Project 26-67 in Eagan. The board also approved several consent agenda items, including contract amendments for benefits consulting, software licenses, and road projects, as well as right-of-way acquisitions for highway projects.

• Approved $34,000 settlement with Kristin Ann Klein for property rights (7-0)
• Approved $34,000 amendment to Deloitte Consulting contract for benefits consulting (7-0)
• Approved $39,100 amendment to DLT Solutions contract for ERP software licenses (7-0)
• Approved $40,000 ARMER grant contract with MN Dept. of Public Safety (7-0)
• Approved $173,945 design contract with HKGI for Miesville Ravine Park Reserve (7-0)
• Approved final plats for Deer Creek, Emerald Isle, West Publishing, Pumpkin Creek (7-0)
• Approved $190,000 amendment for railroad flaggers on CSAH 86 bridge (7-0)
• Approved right-of-way acquisitions and quick-take condemnation for CSAH 42 and CSAH 50 projects (7-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Dakota County Regional Railroad Authority meeting scheduled for November 12, 2024, has been canceled. No business was conducted or discussed.

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The General Government and Policy Committee will consider approving minutes, authorizing a one-time equity adjustment for staff, and discussing the Dakota County Library System renovation plan and future funding. The committee will also receive updates on the county's bonding process, budget amendments, and the 2025 budget process.

• Approval of minutes from October 8, 2024
• Authorization for one-time base equity adjustment for non-union staff
• Discussion of Dakota County Library System renovation plan and future funding
• Update on Dakota County bonding process
• Report on budget amendments and year-end projections

The committee approved two resolutions recommending action by the full Board: a one-time 2% base equity adjustment for non-temporary, non-union employees, and adoption of the 2025 Merit Compensation Policy with 4.25% salary range increases. All other agenda items were informational only, with no action taken.

• Approved Resolution 24-577: one-time 2% base equity adjustment for non-temporary, non-union staff (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 24-578: adopted 2025 Merit Compensation Policy with 4.25% salary range increase (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes of October 8, 2024 meeting (7-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (7-0)

Board Workshop

The Board is holding a workshop to identify the county's vision for transit. Members will discuss needs, gaps, and potential county roles, as well as the Metro Transit Network Now analysis.

• Review of County Vision for transit
• Analysis of transit needs and gaps
• Discussion of potential County roles in transit
• Comments on Metro Transit Network Now analysis

Board of Commissioners

The Dakota County Board will hold a public hearing to adopt the 2025 recommended fee schedules and consider a consent agenda of contracts for services, road projects, and housing aid. The meeting also includes scheduling for a labor agreement and a transportation sales tax public hearing.

• Public hearing on 2025 recommended fee schedules
• Authorization to allocate local affordable housing aid
• Contract amendment for Law Enforcement Center locker room expansion
• Authorization to execute agreements for Minnesota River Greenway construction
• Contract for Interstate Valley Creek stabilization

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners adopted the 2025 fee schedules after a public hearing with no comments. They also approved a $355,000 allocation of Affordable Housing Aid funds for emergency rental assistance, amended the 2024 Social Services Budget accordingly, and authorized submission of the 2024-2044 Solid Waste Management Plan to the MPCA (6-1).

• Adopted 2025 fee schedules (7-0)
• Approved $355,000 for emergency rental assistance (7-0)
• Authorized submission of 2024-2044 Solid Waste Management Plan to MPCA (6-1)
• Delegated tax-forfeit land administration to Property Taxation and Records Director (7-0)
• Approved $1.43M University of Minnesota Extension agreement (7-0)
• Accepted $413,911 Children's Mental Health Screening grant (7-0)
• Approved $200K Behavioral Dimensions and $180K Lopno contracts (7-0)
• Approved $143,500 LEC locker room expansion amendment (7-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Dakota County Regional Railroad Authority scheduled a board meeting for October 29, 2024, but it was canceled. No decisions or discussions will take place at this time.

Board Workshop

The Board is meeting to review existing transit options from various providers. The discussion will focus on identifying service gaps, needs, and potential for growth.

• Review of Metropolitan Council transit
• Review of Metro Transit
• Review of Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA)
• Review of Dakota County Community Services Transportation
• Review of DARTS

Physical Development Committee of the Whole

The Dakota County Physical Development Committee will review a solid waste management plan, authorize contracts for road and park projects, and discuss a parks vision statement. The committee's decisions will be forwarded to the County Board for final action.

• Approval of September 17, 2024, meeting minutes
• Authorization to execute contract amendment with Ebert Inc. for Law Enforcement Center locker room expansion
• Authorization to execute agreements with Union Pacific Railroad for Minnesota River Greenway construction
• Authorization to submit 2024-2044 Solid Waste Management Plan to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
• Discussion on the Parks, Greenways, and Natural Systems Draft 2050 Values and Vision Statement

The Physical Development Committee of the Whole approved and recommended for Board action a consent agenda including a solid waste transfer facility license, several construction and engineering contracts, and budget amendments. They also approved submitting the 2024-2044 Dakota County Solid Waste Management Plan to the MPCA (5-1). Two items were informational only with no action.

• Approved solid waste transfer facility license for Dakota Area Transfer, Inc. (6-0)
• Approved $143,500 contract amendment with Ebert Inc. for LEC locker room expansion, canceling breakroom project (6-0)
• Approved agreements with Union Pacific Railroad for Minnesota River Greenway bridge (6-0)
• Approved $311,947.80 contract with Friends of the Mississippi River for natural resources project management (6-0)
• Approved $110,500 contract amendment with Alliant Engineering for CSAH 43 project (6-0)
• Approved $342,210 contract with Kimley-Horn for CSAH 63/I-494 study (6-0)
• Approved $50,000 contract amendment with HDR Engineering for County Road 86 bridge (6-0)
• Approved $287,997 contract with WSB LLC for CSAH 31 design (6-0)

Community Services Committee of the Whole

The Community Services Committee of the Whole will vote on several consent agenda items, including minutes from the September 17 meeting, a partnership with the University of Minnesota, and grant and contract approvals for children and family services. It will also discuss updates on affordable housing aid spending and propose allocating local aid to emergency rental assistance while amending the 2024 Social Services budget. Additionally, the committee will receive an update on adult emergency shelter services and planning.

• Approve minutes of the September 17, 2024 meeting (Consent Agenda 4.1)
• Authorize agreement with University of Minnesota for local extension programming (4.2)
• Accept Minnesota Department of Human Services Children’s Mental Health Screening Grant funds (4.3)
• Execute contracts for children and family in‑home and community‑based services (4.4)
• Allocate local affordable housing aid to emergency rental assistance and amend the 2024 Social Services budget (5.1)

The Dakota County Community Services Committee approved allocating up to $355,000 in one-time Affordable Housing Aid funds to emergency rental assistance and amended the 2024 Social Services Budget accordingly. The committee also approved the consent agenda, which included a three-year University of Minnesota Extension agreement totaling $1,433,350, acceptance of a $413,911 children's mental health screening grant, and contracts for children's services. Additionally, staff received direction to pursue a long-term shelter contract and increase staffing hours, though no formal action was taken on that item.

• Approved $355,000 for emergency rental assistance (6-0)
• Approved $1,433,350 University of Minnesota Extension agreement (consent)
• Accepted $413,911 children's mental health screening grant (consent)
• Approved contracts with Behavioral Dimensions Inc. ($200,000) and Lopno and Associates ($180,000) (consent)
• Directed staff to pursue 3-5 year shelter contract and increase staffing hours (unanimous, no formal action)

Board of Commissioners

The Dakota County Board will consider several contracts and appointments, including a contract with Axon Enterprise for body‑worn camera equipment and data storage. It will also vote on a contract amendment with LOGIS for fiber‑optic network maintenance, and award a design contract to KLJ Engineering for three greenway projects. Additional items include scheduling transit workshops, appointing a member to the Public Art Advisory Committee, and a public hearing on the 2025 fee schedule.

• Authorize contract with Axon Enterprise, Inc. for fleet and body‑worn camera equipment, data storage, and support
• Amend contract for fiber‑optic network maintenance and engineering with Local Government Information Systems (LOGIS)
• Award consultant contract to KLJ Engineering LLC for preliminary design of North Creek, Vermillion Highlands, and Vermillion River Greenways (Project #2000233)
• Schedule Dakota County Board of Commissioners transit workshops
• Appointment to the Public Art Advisory Committee

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners approved a consent agenda and several resolutions, including a $641,108.16 contract with KLJ Engineering for preliminary design of three greenway projects, a five-year contract with Axon Enterprise for fleet and body-worn cameras, and a $30,000 increase to the LOGIS fiber optics maintenance contract. The board also ratified $809,434.71 in HUD funding requests and authorized settlement negotiations for property rights related to a road project. All votes were unanimous (7-0).

• Approved $641,108.16 contract with KLJ Engineering for greenway preliminary design (7-0)
• Authorized five-year Axon Enterprise contract for fleet and body-worn cameras (7-0)
• Amended LOGIS fiber optics contract by $30,000, not to exceed $388,167 (7-0)
• Ratified $809,434.71 in HUD entitlement and special funding requests (7-0)
• Authorized settlement negotiations for property rights in County Project 78-10 (7-0)
• Scheduled transit workshops for Oct 29 and Nov 12, 2024 (7-0)
• Appointed Cheryl Caponi and Matthew Eppel to Public Art Advisory Committee (7-0)
• Proclaimed National 4-H Week Oct 7-12, 2024 (7-0)

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole will approve minutes from the September 10, 2024 meeting and consider two employee‑relations contracts—one for wellness services with OPTUM and one to renew employee assistance services with The Sand Creek Group, Ltd. for 2025‑2027. It will also receive a finance overview of the recommended 2025 fee schedules, discuss a multi‑county residential opinion survey project, and consider updates to property‑forfeiture policies and library strategic planning.

• Authorization to execute a one‑year contract for wellness services with OPTUM
• Authorization to renew contract with The Sand Creek Group, Ltd. for employee assistance services for 2025‑2027
• Finance overview of recommended 2025 Dakota County fee schedules
• Adoption of revisions to Policy No. 8003, conveyance of tax‑forfeited property to local government unit
• Delegation of tax‑forfeit land administration duties to the Director of Property Taxation and Records

The committee approved three resolutions for recommendation to the County Board: a one-year wellness services contract with OPTUM (not to exceed $165,000), a three-year Employee Assistance Program contract renewal with The Sand Creek Group, and amendments to Policy No. 8003 on tax-forfeited property conveyance. It also approved delegating tax-forfeit land administration duties to the Property Taxation and Records Director. Several informational items were presented with no action taken.

• Approved one-year OPTUM wellness services contract, not to exceed $165,000 (7-0)
• Approved renewal of Sand Creek Group Employee Assistance Program contract for 2025-2027 (7-0)
• Approved revisions to Policy No. 8003 on tax-forfeited property conveyance (7-0)
• Approved delegation of tax-forfeit land administration duties to Property Taxation and Records Director (7-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Dakota County Board will approve the agenda and minutes from the September 10 meeting. A public hearing will be held to receive comments and approve the Dakota County Program Year 2023 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report. The board will consider multiple authorizations, contract approvals, and recognitions across departments such as Employee Relations, Environmental Resources, Parks, and Public Health.

• Public hearing to receive comments and approve the 2023 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report
• Authorization to amend the Joint Powers Agreement with the City of Mendota Heights for a residential organics drop‑off site
• Authorization to execute a contract amendment with Ebert Companies for the Law Enforcement Center Integrative Health Unit addition
• Authorization to award a bid and execute a contract with GV Builders, Inc. for the Farmington Highway Shop Salt Storage Building repair
• Authorization to execute an agreement with Northern States Power Company to relocate overhead power utilities along Trunk Highway 3 (S Robert Trail) in Eagan

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners approved a consent agenda including an 8.6% rate increase for all three 2025 medical plans, a 7.9% dental plan increase, and a 22% increase for voluntary group life insurance. The board also approved the 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program draft for review, adopted 2025 state legislative priorities, and authorized legal strategy in the Tory Hart lawsuit. All votes were 7-0.

• Approved 8.6% rate increase for 2025 medical plans (7-0)
• Approved 7.9% dental plan rate increase with HealthPartners (7-0)
• Approved 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program draft for formal review (7-0)
• Adopted 2025 state legislative priorities (7-0)
• Authorized legal strategy and settlement authority in Tory Hart v. Dakota County (7-0)
• Approved $262,392.91 contract amendment with Ebert Companies for LEC Integrative Health Unit (7-0)
• Approved $124,800 contract with GV Builders for Farmington salt storage roof repair (7-0)
• Approved $70,000 settlement with Joseph Coury for property acquisition (7-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Dakota County Regional Railroad Authority board will certify the maximum proposed property tax levy for 2025. It will also authorize the release of the draft 2025‑2029 Capital Improvement Program. Additional items include approving the August 27, 2024 meeting minutes and scheduling the 2025 authority meetings.

• Authorization to release draft 2025‑2029 Dakota County Regional Railroad Authority Capital Improvement Program
• Certification of 2025 Dakota County Regional Authority Maximum Proposed Property Tax Levy
• Scheduling of 2025 Dakota County Regional Railroad Authority meetings
• Approval of minutes from the August 27, 2024 meeting

The Authority certified that no additional property tax levy revenue is required for the 2025 budget. The board also authorized the release of the draft 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program for public and local government review.

• Certified a maximum proposed property tax levy of $0 for 2025 (7-0)
• Authorized release of draft 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program to cities, townships, and the county website (7-0)
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule (7-0)
• Approved August 27, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)

Physical Development Committee of the Whole

The Physical Development Committee of the Whole will vote on several consent agenda items, including amendments to joint powers agreements for waste management and a contract amendment for a law‑enforcement health unit. It will also approve schematic designs for the Wentworth Library renovation and a boiler/chiller replacement at the Law Enforcement Center. Additional discussions will cover transit planning, State Trunk Highway 13 funding, and naming the Mendota‑Lebanon Hills Greenway.

• Approve amendment to joint powers agreement with City of Mendota Heights for a residential organics drop‑off site
• Approve third contract amendment with Ebert Companies for Law Enforcement Center Integrative Health Unit addition
• Approve schematic design for Wentworth Library renovation
• Approve schematic design for Law Enforcement Center boiler and chiller replacement project
• Discuss transit planning in Dakota County

The Physical Development Committee unanimously approved the schematic design for the Wentworth Library renovation, along with several other consent and regular agenda items. All items were recommended for action by the full County Board on September 24, 2024. The committee also discussed a potential satellite library during the renovation closure and directed staff to postpone broader trunk highway funding discussions until early 2025.

• Approved Wentworth Library renovation schematic design (7-0)
• Approved Law Enforcement Center boiler and chiller replacement schematic design (7-0)
• Approved $262,392.91 contract amendment with Ebert Companies for LEC Integrative Health Unit (7-0)
• Approved $29,000 amendment to Mendota Heights organics drop-off joint powers agreement (7-0)
• Approved inter-county household hazardous waste reciprocal use agreement (7-0)
• Approved joint powers agreement with Lakeville and Vermillion River Watershed JPO for wetland restoration design (7-0)
• Approved $35,000 joint powers agreement with City of Empire for pedestrian and bicycle plan (7-0)
• Approved renaming Mendota-Lebanon Hills Greenway to Lebanon Hills Greenway (6-1)

Community Services Committee of the Whole

The Community Services Committee of the Whole will review recommendations for the County Board regarding public health and social services. Key items include the allocation of opioid settlement funds and the acceptance of various state grants.

• Allocation of opioid settlement funds for nasal naloxone procurement and training
• Acceptance of Minnesota Department of Health Eliminating Health Disparities grant funds
• Contract amendment with Greenleaf Integrative Strategies, LLC for consultation services
• Addition of 8.0 grant-funded full-time equivalents for Adult Mental Health Initiative and Community Support Program
• Joint Powers Agreements with law enforcement for embedded social worker partnerships

The Community Services Committee unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included ratifying a $6,126,582 Adult Mental Health Initiative and Community Support Program grant application to the Minnesota Department of Human Services for CY 2025-2026 and authorizing 8.0 grant-funded full-time equivalents. The committee also approved several other items, including accepting $100,000 in additional state health disparities grant funds, extending a trauma-responsive consultant contract by $105,000, renewing housing service contracts, and authorizing $55,500 in opioid settlement funds for naloxone and trainings. All items were recommended for action by the Board of Commissioners on 9/24/2024.

• Ratified $6,126,582 AMHI/CSP grant application and authorized 8.0 grant-funded FTEs (unanimous)
• Authorized acceptance of $100,000 EHDI grant funds and amended 2024 Public Health Budget (unanimous)
• Approved $105,000 contract amendment with Greenleaf Integrative Strategies, LLC (unanimous)
• Authorized licensing agreements with ISD 191, 192, 194, 197, 200 for emergency public health space through 2030 (unanimous)
• Approved apartment services contracts with DARTS ($171,629) and Residential Transitions ($250,620), and $2M housing amendment with Extended Stay America (unanimous)
• Authorized renewal of joint powers agreements for embedded social worker partnerships with 9 cities (unanimous)
• Ratified Mobile Crisis Services grant application for up to $2,500,000 for CY 2025-2026 (unanimous)
• Authorized $55,500 in opioid settlement funds for naloxone procurement and trainings (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on tax-forfeited properties and vote on the 2025 certified maximum tax levy. They will also consider contracts for computer hardware replacements and Mississippi River Greenway improvements. Other items include approval of final plats for a subdivision and a license for a large event.

• Approval of 2025 certified maximum tax levy
• Authorization to purchase 2024 computer hardware replacement equipment
• Approval of final plats for a subdivision
• Authorization to amend contract with HR Green Inc. for Mississippi River Greenway Hastings Bluff Segment Improvements ($X,XXX,XXX)
• Approval of license for large event by Soundwave Productions

The board adopted the 2025 maximum proposed property tax levy of $167,648,832, a 9.92% increase from 2024, with a 5-2 vote. It also certified the Dakota County portion of the Vermillion River Watershed Management Tax District proposed levy at $990,832 for taxes payable in 2025. Other actions included approving a $1,074,596 computer hardware purchase, a $451,357 contract amendment for the Mississippi River Greenway, and a demolition derby license.

• Adopted 2025 maximum proposed property tax levy of $167,648,832 (5-2)
• Certified Vermillion River Watershed Management Tax District proposed levy of $990,832 (6-0)
• Approved $1,074,596 computer hardware replacement purchase from Now Micro Inc. (6-0)
• Authorized $451,357 contract amendment with HR Green Inc. for Mississippi River Greenway (6-0)
• Approved final plat for Rosemount School District Fifth Addition (6-0)
• Approved demolition derby license for Soundwave Productions at Dakota County Fairgrounds (6-0)
• Scheduled County Canvassing Board meeting for Nov 12 and post-election review Nov 14 (6-0)
• Appointed Elijah Daniel to Extension Committee for one-year term (6-0)

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The General Government and Policy Committee is reviewing 2025 medical, dental, and disability insurance plans and rates for employees. The body will also discuss the future funding approach for Dakota 911 and 2025 state legislative priorities.

• Approval of 2025 Dental Plan contract renewal
• Approval of 2025 Medical Plans and premium rates
• Authorization of vendors and rates for 2025 short-term disability, long-term disability, life insurance, and vision
• Discussion of future county funding approach to Dakota 911
• Policy 3020 change to establish Human Resources as a synonym for Employee Relations Department

The committee approved and recommended several 2025 employee benefit renewals and rate increases for medical, dental, and disability plans. It also approved rebranding the Employee Relations Department as the Human Resources Department.

• Approved 8.6% rate increase for 2025 medical plans (7-0)
• Approved 7.9% rate increase for 2025 dental plan renewal with HealthPartners (6-0)
• Approved 2025-2026 contracts and rates for Life, Disability, and Vision insurance (6-0)
• Approved rebranding Employee Relations Department as Human Resources Department (6-0)
• Approved revisions to Policy 3020 regarding HR branding (6-0)
• Approved August 13, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider several transportation infrastructure agreements and budget amendments. The meeting includes votes on employee medical plans and workplace drug and alcohol policies. Other items involve inter-county agreements for pesticide mitigation and fiber optic usage.

• Authorization for 2025 Medical/Pharmacy Plan contract
• Revisions to Policy 3283 regarding Drug, Alcohol and Cannabis Free Workplace
• Joint Powers Agreements with Apple Valley and Burnsville for road and signal projects
• Contract with Sir Lines-A-Lot, LLC for highway markings
• Agreement with City of Rosemount for fiber optic right to use

The Dakota County Board approved a consent agenda including a contract with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota for the 2025 self-insured medical and pharmacy plans, and authorized contracts with Stinson LLP and Downs Government Affairs for lobbying services. The board also approved several infrastructure and administrative items, including a trailhead design, bison transfer, and road projects.

• Approved Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota contract for 2025 medical/pharmacy plans (7-0)
• Authorized Stinson LLP contract for state lobbying, $102,506.25/year for 2025-2026 (6-1)
• Authorized Downs Government Affairs contract for federal lobbying, $60,000 in 2025 and $66,000 in 2026 (6-1)
• Approved schematic design for Spring Lake Park Reserve Fischer Avenue Trailhead and $2.6M budget amendment (7-0)
• Authorized donation of four male bison to Minnesota DNR (7-0)
• Accepted $161,200 MDA grant for South Metro Private Well Pesticide Mitigation Program (7-0)
• Awarded $91,845 contract to Sir Lines-A-Lot for latex pavement markings (7-0)
• Awarded $228,765 contract to Sir Lines-A-Lot for durable pavement markings (7-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The board will consider authorizing a Joint Powers Agreement with Dakota County for Greenway railroad crossings. It will also consider amending the 2024 Capital Improvement Program and budget to reflect this agreement. The meeting includes routine items such as approval of minutes and other staff reports.

• Authorization to execute Joint Powers Agreement with Dakota County for Greenway railroad crossings
• Amendment to the 2024 Capital Improvement Program and budget related to the railroad crossings

The Dakota County Regional Railroad Authority approved a joint powers agreement with Dakota County and amended its 2024 budget to add $3.61 million for safety improvements at two greenway railroad crossings. The authority also approved the consent agenda, including the May 21, 2024 minutes, and discussed supporting a grant application for the Borealis passenger rail service.

• Approved joint powers agreement with Dakota County for greenway railroad crossings (7-0)
• Amended 2024 CIP and budget adding $3,610,131 for Projects P00127 and P00147 (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including May 21, 2024 minutes (7-0)
• Agreed to send letter of support for Borealis passenger rail grant (discussed, no formal vote)

Board Workshop

The Dakota County Board will hold a workshop to review budget presentations from various county departments, including the Attorney's Office, Sheriff's Office, and Public Services. The meeting will also address questions from a previous session regarding MnCHOICES staffing, opioid funding, and fleet maintenance costs, alongside a discussion on the 2025 levy and American Rescue Plan spending.

• Budget presentations from County Attorney's Office, Sheriff's Office, and Public Services
• Discussion on MnCHOICES Full-Time Equivalents (FTE's)
• Review of Opioid Funding and Natural Resources Funding
• Discussion on 2025 Levy Options and American Rescue Plan (ARP) Spending
• Capital financing presentations on Bonding and Sales and Use Tax

Board Work Session

The Board is holding a work session to review staff recommendations for 2025 legislative priorities. The meeting focuses on discussing legislative topics of interest to Dakota County.

• Staff recommendations for 2025 legislative priorities

Physical Development Committee of the Whole

The Physical Development Committee of the Whole will review recommendations for park improvements and transportation contracts. The body is discussing budget amendments for parks and transportation capital improvement programs.

• Schematic design for Spring Lake Park Reserve Fischer Avenue Trailhead
• Transfer of four bison to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
• Grant funds from Minnesota Department of Agriculture for South Metro Private Well Pesticide Mitigation Program
• Contract amendment with WSB LLC for County Project 42-172 in Apple Valley
• Traffic signal replacement at County State Aid Highway 5 and Southcross Drive (Project 5-58)

The Physical Development Committee of the Whole approved the consent agenda, which included scheduling a public hearing for the 2023 CAPER, approving the schematic design for the Spring Lake Park Reserve Fischer Avenue Trailhead and amending the 2024 Parks CIP budget, authorizing the donation of four bison to the Minnesota DNR, accepting a $161,200 grant for private well pesticide mitigation, and authorizing contract amendments and joint powers agreements for transportation projects. All items were approved unanimously (6-0) and recommended for action by the Board of Commissioners on August 27, 2024.

• Approved agenda and consent agenda unanimously (6-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for 2023 CAPER on Sept 24, 2024 (6-0)
• Approved Spring Lake Park Reserve Fischer Avenue Trailhead schematic design and $2,615,783 budget amendment (6-0)
• Authorized donation of four male bison to Minnesota DNR (6-0)
• Accepted $161,200 grant from Minnesota Dept. of Agriculture for private well pesticide mitigation (6-0)
• Authorized WSB LLC contract amendment to $513,735 and joint powers agreements with Apple Valley for CSAH 42 project (6-0)
• Authorized joint powers agreement with Burnsville for traffic signal replacement at CSAH 5 and Southcross Drive (6-0)

Community Services Committee of the Whole

The meeting scheduled for August 20, 2024, was canceled. No items were decided or discussed.

Board Workshop

The Board is meeting to review 2025 budget presentations. The session focuses on the Physical Development and Community Services divisions.

• 2025 Budget Presentation: Physical Development Division
• 2025 Budget Presentation: Community Services Division

Board of Commissioners

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes, appointments to the Planning Commission and Public Art Advisory Committee, and several contracts and agreements. Items include fiber optic agreements, transportation projects, trail design work, and renewals of school resource officer services.

• Appointments to Planning Commission and Public Art Advisory Committee
• Authorization to execute fiber optic agreement with City of South St. Paul
• Approval of amendments to 2021 Dakota County HOME Consortium Program
• Authorization to execute consultant contract with Alliant Engineering, Inc. for CSAH 31 (Denmark Ave) and CSAH 74 (220th St West) in Farmington
• Renewal of joint powers agreements for School Resource Officer services with Independent School Districts 195, 196, and Intermediate School District 917

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners approved a consent agenda and several resolutions, including a $504,442 contract with Alliant Engineering for preliminary engineering on County State Aid Highways 31 and 74 in Farmington. They also approved appointments, a fiber optic agreement with South St. Paul, HOME program amendments, three final plats, an encroachment agreement with Ryan Companies, and multiple joint powers agreements for school resource officers and election recounts. All votes were unanimous (7-0).

• Approved $504,442 contract with Alliant Engineering for CSAH 31/74 study (7-0)
• Approved fiber optic IRU agreement with City of South St. Paul (7-0)
• Approved HOME Consortium program amendments (7-0)
• Approved final plats: Archer Trail, Henning DeVries Addition, Sundance Lakeville 2nd Addition (7-0)
• Authorized encroachment agreement with Ryan Companies along CSAH 28 (7-0)
• Approved joint powers agreements for school resource officers with ISD 195, 196, 917 (7-0)
• Authorized election recount agreements with Secretary of State (7-0)
• Approved appointments to Planning Commission and Public Art Advisory Committee (7-0)

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The General Government and Policy Committee will review the 2024 second quarter board priorities and discuss long-term financial management. The body is also considering updates to workplace drug and alcohol policies and contracts for governmental relations services.

• Revisions to Policy 3283 - Drug, Alcohol And Cannabis Free Workplace
• Authorization to execute contract for 2025 Medical/Pharmacy Plan
• Authorization to execute contracts with Stinson LLP and Downs Government Affairs, LLC
• Discussion of Long-Term Financial Management And Capital Financing Plan

The committee approved revisions to the drug, alcohol and cannabis workplace policy, authorized a 2025 medical/pharmacy plan contract with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, and approved contracts with Stinson LLP and Downs Government Affairs for lobbying services. The lobbying contracts were approved 6-1, with Commissioner Holberg dissenting. All items were recommended for action by the full County Board on 8/27/2024.

• Approved revisions to Policy 3282 - Drug, Alcohol and Cannabis Free Workplace (7-0)
• Authorized execution of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota contract for 2025 medical/pharmacy plan (7-0)
• Approved $102,506.25/year contract with Stinson LLP for state governmental relations (6-1)
• Approved $60,000 (2025) and $66,000 (2026) contract with Downs Government Affairs for federal relations (6-1)

Board Workshop

The Board will hold a workshop to discuss the County Manager's recommended budget. No other items are listed for decision or discussion.

• County Manager's Recommended Budget

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting to recognize county anniversaries and agricultural awards. No legislative actions or budget decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Recognition of 175th Anniversary of Dakota County
• Recognition of University of Minnesota Extension Services 2024 Farm Family of the Year
• Recognition of Dakota County Farm Bureau 2024 Century Farm
• Recognition of Dakota County Farm Bureau 2024 Sesquicentennial Farm
• Dakota County 4-H updates and highlights

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners held a special meeting at the county fair, approving the agenda and a resolution recognizing the county's 175th anniversary. The board also received informational presentations on the 2024 Farm Family of the Year, Century Farm, Sesquicentennial Farm, and 4-H program highlights. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was ceremonial and adjourned at 10:37 a.m.

• Approved agenda (Resolution 24-398) (7-0)
• Approved 175th anniversary recognition resolution (Resolution 24-399) (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (Resolution 24-400) (7-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss a state of emergency declaration for summer flooding and receive updates on transportation construction projects. The body is also deciding on various land acquisitions, infrastructure contracts, and grant agreements.

• Declaration of State of Emergency for 2024 Summer Flood Event
• Authorization to acquire Errington Property in Sciota Township and Oliver Family Property in City of Empire
• Construction contract with Fitzgerald Excavating & Trucking Incorporated for County State Aid Highway 88 in Randolph Township
• Release of draft 2024-2044 Dakota County Solid Waste Management Plan for public review
• Contract with CJC Construction LLC for Administration Center Atrium Fire Boundary Project

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners declared a state of emergency due to the 2024 summer flood event, which will remain in effect for 30 days or until recovery efforts are no longer required. The board also approved a consent agenda containing numerous routine items, including a reimbursement resolution for the Lebanon Hills Maintenance Facility project (6-1), a contract amendment for the Law Enforcement Center cell block improvements, and authorization to acquire the Oliver Family property in Empire for $156,850. A $92,000 settlement with Anthony and Jeanne Abbott for property rights related to County Projects 26-54 and 63-27 was also approved.

• Declared state of emergency for 2024 summer flood event (7-0)
• Adopted reimbursement resolution for Lebanon Hills Maintenance Facility project (6-1)
• Approved $183,733 contract amendment with AVM Construction for LEC cell block improvements (7-0)
• Authorized up to $156,850 to acquire Oliver Family property in Empire (7-0)
• Awarded $4,959,116.91 construction contract to Fitzgerald Excavating for CSAH 88 (7-0)
• Approved $92,000 settlement with Abbott for Parcel 70 property rights (7-0)
• Authorized $1,407,141 grant agreement for State Dislocated Worker Program (7-0)
• Approved five final plats in Burnsville, Farmington, West St. Paul, Apple Valley, and Lakeville (7-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Dakota County Regional Railroad Authority meeting scheduled for July 30, 2024 was canceled. No agenda items were presented, so no decisions or discussions will take place. Residents should check future notices for rescheduled meetings.

Board Workshop

The Dakota County Board will hold a workshop to discuss accessibility as one of its five 2023 strategic planning priorities. No decisions are scheduled.

Physical Development Committee of the Whole

The Physical Development Committee of the Whole will discuss the preliminary 2025 Capital Improvement Program and funding sources. The body is also considering the release of the draft 2024-2044 Solid Waste Management Plan for public review. Various property acquisitions and contract amendments are listed for approval.

• Authorization to acquire Errington Property in Sciota Township
• Authorization to acquire Oliver Family Property in City of Empire
• Contract amendment with AVM Construction LLC for Law Enforcement Center cell block improvements
• Contract with CJC Construction LLC for Administration Center Atrium Fire Boundary Project
• Draft 2024-2044 Dakota County Solid Waste Management Plan

The Physical Development Committee of the Whole unanimously approved the consent agenda, including authorization to acquire the Errington property in Sciota Township for County Project 59-005, a Clean Water Fund grant application for well sealing, a joint powers agreement for a water conservation marketing campaign, a contract amendment for cell block improvements, a contract amendment for Minnesota River Greenway design services, acquisition of the Oliver Family property in Empire, a contract for the Administration Center Atrium Fire Boundary Project, and release of the draft Solid Waste Management Plan for public comment. All items were recommended for action by the County Board on 7/30/2024. The committee also discussed the preliminary 2025 Capital Improvement Program and future waste management topics, with no action taken on those items.

• Approved appraised value and advanced acquisition of Errington property in Sciota Township (6-0)
• Authorized Clean Water Fund grant application up to $200,000 for Well Seal Grant Program (6-0)
• Authorized joint powers agreement with Vermillion River Watershed JPO for up to $10,000 marketing campaign (6-0)
• Authorized contract amendment with AVM Construction LLC up to $183,733 for cell block improvements (6-0)
• Authorized sixth contract amendment with Short-Elliot-Hendrickson up to $430,988 for Minnesota River Greenway (6-0)
• Authorized acquisition of Oliver Family property up to $156,850 in Empire (6-0)
• Awarded contract to CJC Construction LLC for $338,000 for Atrium Fire Boundary Project (6-0)
• Released draft 2024-2044 Solid Waste Management Plan for 21-day public comment (6-0)

Community Services Committee of the Whole

The Community Services Committee of the Whole will consider authorizations for several state and federal grant agreements related to workforce and youth services. The body will also discuss the Housing Business Plan and options for spending affordable housing aid.

• Authorization for State Dislocated Worker Program Services grant agreement
• Authorization for Workforce Innovation And Opportunity Act Adult and Dislocated Worker Services grant agreement
• Ratification of Unified Local Youth Plan for Workforce Innovation And Opportunity Act Youth Program 2024
• Ratification of grant application for Healthy Tomorrow’s Partnership For Children Program
• Authorization to accept State and Local Affordable Housing Aid funds

The Community Services Committee unanimously approved several workforce and housing funding items, including a $200,000 HRSA grant for the Healthy Tomorrow's Partnership for Children Program, and authorized acceptance of $4.6 million in state and local affordable housing aid. The committee also approved consent agenda items for dislocated worker and WIOA grants. No substantive decisions were made on the Medical Assistance update, which was informational only.

• Approved $200,000 HRSA grant for Healthy Tomorrow's Partnership for Children Program (6-0)
• Authorized acceptance of $516,862 State and $4,103,737.26 Local Affordable Housing Aid (6-0)
• Approved $1,407,141 State Dislocated Worker grant agreement with DEED (consent)
• Approved WIOA Adult ($343,056) and Dislocated Worker ($563,755) grant agreements (consent)
• Approved ratification of Unified Local Youth Plan submission for WIOA Youth Program (consent)
• Approved minutes of June 11, 2024 meeting (consent)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting to consider the appointment of a County Manager. The board will review and potentially approve an employment agreement with Heidi Welsch.

• Approval of employment agreement and appointment of Heidi Welsch as County Manager

The Board of Commissioners approved an employment agreement with Heidi Welsch and appointed her as County Manager, effective September 3, 2024. The vote was 6-0. The appointment follows a search process that began after the previous County Manager announced retirement in May 2024.

• Approved employment agreement with Heidi Welsch (6-0)
• Appointed Heidi Welsch as County Manager effective Sept. 3, 2024 (6-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider several infrastructure and public safety items. Discussions include adding staff to the Sheriff's Office and approving various transportation and park agreements.

• Add 12 full-time equivalent positions for Jail Integrative Health Unit
• Contract with New Look Contracting, Inc. for signal reconstruction at Pilot Knob Road and Corporate Center Drive
• Contract with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. for Delaware Avenue and Butler Avenue projects
• Construction contract with McNamara Contracting, Inc. and SRF Consulting Group, Inc. for pedestrian safety improvements
• Agreement with Great River Energy for Veterans Memorial Greenway Bridge over Highway 3

The Board authorized several infrastructure contracts for road and trail improvements and approved adding 13 full-time positions to the Sheriff's Office. Other actions included appointing a member to the Workforce Development Board and approving a final plat in Hastings.

• Authorized 12 FTE positions for jail Integrative Health Unit (7-0)
• Awarded $1,379,518 contract to McNamara Contracting, Inc. for paved trails and facilities (7-0)
• Awarded $1,315,829.75 contract to New Look Contracting, Inc. for signal reconstruction at Pilot Knob Road and Corporate Center Drive (7-0)
• Authorized $1,832,900 contract with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. for design and right of way services (7-0)
• Awarded $386,905 construction contract to McNamara Contracting, Inc. and $70,426 administration contract to SRF Consulting Group, Inc. for pedestrian safety (7-0)
• Authorized $218,979.04 relocation agreement with Great River Energy for Veterans Memorial Greenway Bridge (7-0)
• Authorized 1.0 FTE Program Services Assistant for gun permit duties at a cost of $42,764 (7-0)
• Approved final plat for Pleasant Drive Addition in Hastings (7-0)

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole will review administrative and financial matters. Discussion includes amending a joint powers agreement and adopting a reimbursement resolution for the Lebanon Hills Maintenance Facility Project.

• Authorization to amend Joint Powers Agreement establishing the Criminal Justice Network
• Adoption of reimbursement resolution for Lebanon Hills Maintenance Facility Project

The committee approved a resolution to seek reimbursement of up to $26.5 million for the Lebanon Hills Maintenance Facility Project through tax-exempt financing. It also recommended amending a joint powers agreement for the Criminal Justice Network.

• Approved reimbursement resolution for Lebanon Hills Maintenance Facility Project up to $26.5M (6-1)
• Approved amendment to Criminal Justice Network joint powers agreement to add City of Plymouth and change budget structure (7-0)
• Approved June 25, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting to conduct second interviews for selected candidates. The board will also discuss the next steps regarding the vacancy of the County Manager position.

• Second interviews of selected County Manager candidates
• Discussion on next steps for the vacant County Manager position

The Board of Commissioners voted to begin negotiating employment terms with Heidi Welsch for the vacant County Manager position. A special meeting was scheduled for July 23, 2024, to consider the appointment and employment contract.

• Approved Resolution 24-361 to negotiate terms with Heidi Welsch for County Manager (5-2)
• Scheduled special meeting for July 23, 2024, to consider appointment of County Manager

Board Workshop

The Board is meeting to prepare for interviews and determine next steps regarding the vacancy of the County Manager. This workshop focuses on the recruitment process for this leadership role.

• Preparation for County Manager interviews and hiring steps

Board of Commissioners

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners will consider a consent agenda recommending approval of multiple infrastructure, grant, and service contracts. Key actions include authorizing right-of-way acquisition and quick-take condemnation for a multiuse trail and intersection improvements in Inver Grove Heights, and amending agreements for an I-35W interchange project in Burnsville. The board will also schedule a public meeting to hear comments on classifying tax-forfeited properties as non-conservation and consider acquiring the Schwamb Property for Miesville Ravine Park Reserve. These actions will affect local property owners, road users, and land classification policies.

• Authorization for quick-take condemnation of right-of-way for a multiuse trail along County State Aid Highway 28 in Inver Grove Heights
• Authorization for quick-take condemnation of right-of-way for intersection improvements on County State Aid Highway 56 in Inver Grove Heights
• Contract award to Northland Mechanical Contractors, Inc. for the Lawshe Museum roof cooling unit replacement
• Scheduling of a public meeting to hear comments on classifying tax-forfeited properties as non-conservation
• Authorization to acquire the Schwamb Property in Miesville Ravine Park Reserve

The Dakota County Board approved right-of-way acquisition for two Inver Grove Heights road projects and authorized quick-take condemnation if negotiations fail, each on 4-3 votes. The board also approved acquiring the five-acre Schwamb property in Miesville Ravine Park Reserve for up to $443,500 and a $1.5 million state grant for a roundabout. Most other items, including several grant agreements and contracts, passed 7-0 on the consent agenda.

• Approved right-of-way acquisition and quick-take condemnation for multiuse trail along CSAH 28 in Inver Grove Heights (4-3)
• Approved right-of-way acquisition and quick-take condemnation for intersection improvements on CSAH 56 in Inver Grove Heights (4-3)
• Authorized up to $443,500 to acquire the Schwamb property in Miesville Ravine Park Reserve (7-0)
• Accepted $1.5 million Local Road Improvement Program grant for roundabout at CSAH 46 and CSAH 85 (7-0)
• Approved amended agricultural conservation easement on former Delores Gergen property in Hampton Township (7-0)
• Authorized $940,513.78 intergovernmental transfer with DHS for shelter services and $375,275 contract with Dakota Woodlands (7-0)
• Awarded $132,700 contract to Northland Mechanical Contractors for Lawshe Museum cooling unit replacement (7-0)
• Approved final plats: Amber Fields Eighteenth Addition (Rosemount) and Vermillion Commons 4th Addition (Farmington) (7-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The scheduled meeting for the Dakota County Regional Railroad Authority has been canceled. No business or discussion will take place at this time.

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss budget amendments and year-end projections for operations and contracts. The Sheriff is also seeking authorization to add 12 full-time equivalent positions to staff the Jail Integrative Health Unit.

• Authorization to add 12 full-time equivalent positions for the Jail Integrative Health Unit
• Report on budget amendments, year-end projections for operations and contracts

The General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole approved Resolution No. 24-345 on a 7-0 vote, authorizing the Sheriff to add 12.0 full-time equivalent positions to staff the jail's new Integrative Health Unit, expected to open in the first quarter of 2025. The positions consist of 11.0 FTE in grade 105 and 1.0 FTE in grade 106, with 2024 costs covered by Sheriff's budget savings at zero net cost to the county. The item was recommended for action by the Board of Commissioners on 7/9/2024. The committee also approved its agenda and the minutes of the June 4, 2024 meeting, and received an information-only budget report.

• Approved Resolution No. 24-345 authorizing 12.0 FTE jail Integrative Health Unit positions (7-0)
• Recommended Resolution No. 24-345 for Board of Commissioners action on 7/9/2024
• Approved the meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved minutes of the June 4, 2024 meeting (7-0)
• Received budget amendments and year-end projections report (information only, no action)
• Adjourned at 10:20 a.m. (7-0)

Board Workshop

The Board will review estimated fund balances for the 2023 financial year-end. Discussion includes 2024 budget performance and the financial planning environment for 2025, including cost pressures and funding.

• 2023 Financial Year-End Estimate Fund Balances
• 2024 Budget and Financial Performance
• 2025 Financial Planning Environment

Board of Commissioners

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting to discuss interview finalists for the vacant County Manager position. The board will provide direction on next steps for the selection process. No final appointment or vote is scheduled for this session.

• Discussion of interview finalists for the vacant County Manager position
• Board direction on next steps for the hiring process
• Special meeting format with call to order and adjournment

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners voted 6-1 to select Heidi Welsch and Justin Miller as preferred candidates for the vacant County Manager position. The board scheduled a July 8, 2024 workshop and a July 9, 2024 special meeting to prepare for and conduct second interviews. Commissioner Mary Liz Holberg cast the lone no vote. The meeting adjourned unanimously at 3:18 p.m.

• Selected Heidi Welsch and Justin Miller as preferred candidates for County Manager (6-1)
• Scheduled special board meeting July 9, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. for candidate interviews
• Scheduled board workshop July 8, 2024 at 2:30 p.m. to prepare for interviews
• Adjourned unanimously at 3:18 p.m.

Board of Commissioners

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting on June 24, 2024, to orient candidates and conduct interviews for the vacant County Manager position. The agenda covers a call to order, candidate orientation, and the interview session before adjournment. No other policy, budget, or zoning items are scheduled for this session.

• Special meeting for County Manager candidate interviews
• Candidate orientation and interview session
• Public comment submission via CountyAdmin@co.dakota.mn.us
• Meeting location: Conference Room 3A, Administration Center, Hastings

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners held a special meeting to conduct orientation and interviews for the vacant County Manager position. Five candidates were interviewed throughout the day, and the meeting was adjourned at 4:00 p.m. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Conducted interviews for the County Manager position with five candidates (no action taken)
• Approved afternoon recess unanimously
• Adjourned meeting unanimously at 4:00 p.m.

Physical Development Committee of the Whole

The Dakota County Physical Development Committee of the Whole approved a consent agenda with multiple property easements, grant proposals, and public works contracts, and discussed the 2050 parks vision and preliminary 2025 Capital Improvement Program. All consent items were approved and recommended for action by the Board of Commissioners on June 25, 2024. Regular agenda items were for information only with no formal actions taken.

• Approved agenda unanimously (6-0)
• Approved minutes from May 14, 2024 meeting (6-0)
• Authorized amending and restating agricultural conservation easement on former Delores Gergen property in Hampton Township (6-0)
• Authorized joint powers agreement with Goodhue County for custodial and reservation services at Byllesby Park (6-0)
• Authorized submission of Habitat Enhancement Landscape Program grant proposal ($126,410) and budget amendment (6-0)
• Awarded $132,700 contract to Northland Mechanical Contractors, Inc. for Lawshe Museum rooftop cooling unit replacement and approved budget amendment (6-0)
• Authorized joint powers agreement with City of Apple Valley for North Creek Greenway Eastview Segment Feasibility Study (6-0)
• Authorized amending I-35W interchange with CSAH 42 agreements and right-of-way cost consolidation in Burnsville (6-0)

Community Services Committee of the Whole

The committee will review several consent agenda items involving grant funds, contracts, and budget amendments. The regular agenda includes adopting a work plan for the Opioid Response Advisory Committee and an update on mental health crisis services expansion.

• Contract with ByWater Business Solutions LLC for print to mail services
• Substance Misuse And Suicide Prevention Coalition Grant funds and 1.0 FTE addition
• Joint Powers Agreements with Dakota County School Districts for school wellness projects
• Promising Practices Home Visiting Grant funds and 1.6 FTE addition
• Contract with JEC Miller, Inc. for child foster residence respite services

The Community Services Committee unanimously approved a consent agenda containing six items, including contracts for print-to-mail services, foster care respite, and emergency shelter, as well as grants for substance misuse prevention and home visiting. The committee also adopted the annual work plan for the Opioid Response Advisory Committee and received an informational update on mental health crisis services. All approved items were recommended for final action by the full Board of Commissioners on June 25, 2024.

• Approved agenda unanimously (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda unanimously (5-0)
• Authorized $450,000 pilot contract with ByWater Business Solutions LLC for print-to-mail services
• Authorized $125,000/year grant for Substance Misuse and Suicide Prevention Coalition
• Authorized joint powers agreements with school districts for wellness projects (total not to exceed $89,999)
• Authorized $250,000/year grant for Promising Practices Home Visiting
• Authorized $500,000 contract with JEC Miller, Inc. for foster care respite services
• Authorized $940,513.78 intergovernmental transfer and $375,275 contract for emergency shelter services

Board Work Session

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners is holding a work session to introduce the new Regional Administrator. The meeting includes discussions on the Imagine 2050 Regional Development Guide and Metro Mobility updates.

• Introduction of the new Regional Administrator
• Imagine 2050: Update on Regional Development Guide
• Metro Mobility update

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review several transportation, infrastructure, and insurance items. Discussions include road improvements in Lakeville and Eagan, as well as boiler replacements for the Burnhaven Library and Law Enforcement Center.

• Joint Powers Agreement with City of Inver Grove Heights for 80th Street East Trail Gap
• Engineering contract with Stonebrooke Engineering, Inc. for Highway 50 and Hamburg Avenue intersection in Lakeville
• Contract with SRF Consulting Group, Inc. for corridor signal timing in Eagan
• Construction contract for 2024 preservation of paved highway surfaces projects
• Northern Air Corporation contract for Burnhaven Library boiler replacement

The Board approved a schedule for interviewing finalists for the vacant County Manager position, including a community meet-and-greet. The Board also authorized several infrastructure contracts and insurance renewals.

• Scheduled County Manager interviews for June 24 and 25 (7-0)
• Scheduled community meet-and-greet for County Manager finalists on June 24 (7-0)
• Approved $470,506 automobile insurance renewal with Travelers Insurance (7-0)
• Approved $437,779 property insurance renewal with Affiliated FM Insurance (7-0)
• Authorized $242,071 engineering contract for Lakeville roundabout (7-0)
• Authorized $110,424 signal timing contract with SRF Consulting Group (7-0)
• Approved $263,955 boiler replacement contract for Burnhaven Library (7-0)
• Authorized $399,500 for Law Enforcement Center boiler and chiller design (7-0)

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole will discuss proposed amendments to the memorial designations section of Dakota County’s street naming and addressing procedures, review a legislative update from the County Manager, and approve minutes from its May 21 meeting. Changes to these protocols affect property records, mail delivery routing, and emergency service dispatch. Any actions taken by this committee serve as recommendations to the full County Board.

• Discussion on amendments to the memorial designations section of the Dakota County Uniform Street Naming And Addressing Procedural Manual
• Legislative update from the Office of the County Manager
• Approval of minutes from the May 21, 2024 meeting

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the May 21, 2024, minutes. Members directed staff to gather feedback from cities regarding street naming amendments and to review right-of-way policy language.

• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved May 21, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Directed staff to discuss street naming amendments with cities
• Directed staff to review current Right of Way policy language

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review the recruitment process for a new County Manager, including selecting finalists and appointing an interim leader. The agenda also includes requests to authorize various infrastructure projects, such as roadwork on Highway 32 and dam improvements. Additionally, the board will consider contracts related to public health and community services.

• Selection of finalists for County Manager recruitment
• Contract for Highway 32 mill and overlay and traffic signal replacement
• Authorization for Byllesby Dam capital improvement program amendments
• Joint powers agreements to use opioid settlement funds
• Law Enforcement Center locker room expansion contract

The Board appointed Tom Novak as Interim County Manager following the retirement of Matt Smith. The Board also approved several infrastructure contracts, including a $3.5M road project and a $26.3M dam redevelopment amendment.

• Appointed Tom Novak as Interim County Manager with a 5% pay increase (7-0)
• Approved $26,335,502.01 contract amendment for Byllesby Dam Phase II (6-0)
• Awarded $3,529,250.55 contract to Bituminous Roadways Inc. for CSAH 32 projects (6-0)
• Approved $1,017,478.84 contract with Park Construction Company for CSAH 31/32 signal reconstruction (6-0)
• Authorized $80,000 in opioid settlement funds for school districts and charter schools (6-0)
• Accepted $1,850,000 in federal funding for Veterans Memorial and Mississippi River Greenways (6-0)
• Approved $535,000 contract with SeaChange for election ballot printing and mailing (6-0)
• Tabled Opioid Response Advisory Committee annual work plan to June 11, 2024

Regional Railroad Authority

The Authority will discuss the preliminary 2025 draft Capital Improvement Program. The agenda also includes an update on the Dan Patch Rail To Trail Study and approval of April 23, 2024 meeting minutes.

• Update on Dan Patch Rail To Trail Study
• Discussion of preliminary 2025 draft Capital Improvement Program
• Approval of April 23, 2024 meeting minutes

The board approved the agenda and the minutes from the April 23, 2024 meeting. No substantive actions were taken on the Dan Patch Rail To Trail Study or the 2025 draft Capital Improvement Program, as both were presented for informational purposes only.

• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved April 23, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss the selection of finalists for the County Manager executive recruitment. The committee will also discuss direction regarding the appointment of an Interim County Manager.

• Selection of finalists for County Manager executive recruitment
• Appointment of Interim County Manager
• Report on budget amendments and year-end projections for operations and contracts

The Committee provided direction to interview five finalists for the County Manager position and to appoint Tom Novak as interim County Manager. The meeting also included a legislative update and budget reports for informational purposes.

• Approved minutes from May 7 and May 14, 2024 (7-0)
• Directed staff to interview County Manager candidates 2, 7, 8, 13, and 14
• Directed staff to schedule County Manager interviews for June 24, 2024
• Directed pursuit of appointing Tom Novak as interim County Manager

Physical Development Committee of the Whole

The committee will review several construction contracts, facility redevelopments, and transportation projects. Discussion items include the 2025 draft Transportation Capital Improvement Program and a vision for parks and greenways.

• Amendment to Byllesby Dam Capital Improvement Program and contract amendment with The Boldt Company
• Professional services contract with Kodet Architectural Group, Ltd. for Western Service Center second floor redevelopment
• Contract amendment with Mid-America Business Systems and Equipment, Inc. for Kaposia Library Project
• Bid award and contract with Ebert Inc. for Law Enforcement Center locker room expansion
• Construction contract with Bituminous Roadways Inc. for County State Aid Highway 32 projects

The committee approved multiple construction and design contracts for county facilities, roads, and the Byllesby Dam. It also authorized a new trail easement in Hastings. A proposal to seek federal funding for a land bridge in Thompson County Park was denied.

• Approved $3.5M contract with Bituminous Roadways Inc. for CSAH 32 projects (7-0)
• Approved $26.3M total contract for Byllesby Dam Phase II with The Boldt Company (7-0)
• Approved $373,300 contract with Ebert Inc. for Law Enforcement Center locker rooms (7-0)
• Approved $159,050 design contract with Kodet Architectural Group for Western Service Center (7-0)
• Approved $13,893.31 contract amendment for Kaposia Library project (7-0)
• Authorized acceptance of 0.75-acre trail easement from Smead Manufacturing Company (7-0)
• Denied proposal to pursue federal funding for Thompson County Park land bridge (3-4)
• Approved revisions to Policy 4020 Property/Facility Use and Security (7-0)

Community Services Committee of the Whole

The Community Services Committee of the Whole will review several contract authorizations and grant applications. The agenda includes updates on mental health promotion, truancy reduction, and University of Minnesota Extension programming. Members will also consider using opioid settlement funds with school districts.

• Contract with Life Development Resources for juvenile services
• Use of opioid settlement funds with school districts
• Grant application for a Family Resource Center/One-Stop Shop
• Acceptance of Minnesota Homeless Prevention Aid
• Proclamation of May as Mental Health Month

The Community Services Committee of the Whole approved a consent agenda of eight items, each recommended for action by the full Board of Commissioners on 5/21/2024. These included allocating up to $80,000 in opioid settlement funds to school districts and charter schools for naloxone-related activities, a $282,000 contract with Life Development Resources for juvenile therapeutic services, and acceptance of up to $1,500,000 in Local Homeless Prevention Aid. The committee also approved a proclamation of May 2024 as Mental Health Month and received informational updates on University of Minnesota Extension programming, the Truancy Reduction Program, and the Youth Interventions Working Group, with no action taken on those updates.

• Approved consent agenda as a whole (7-0)
• Approved $282,000 not-to-exceed contract with Life Development Resources for Juvenile Service Center and campus therapeutic services, July 1, 2024–June 30, 2026
• Ratified Minnesota Youth Program grant application and authorized accepting up to $352,822 and a $297,540 contract with Tree Trust, July 1, 2024–September 30, 2025
• Adopted 2024 annual work plan for the Opioid Response Advisory Committee
• Authorized up to $80,000 in opioid settlement funds and joint powers agreements with six school districts/Special District 6 for naloxone and related activities, up to $500 per school building
• Authorized accepting up to $1,500,000 in Local Homeless Prevention Aid and amending contracts with 360 Communities and The Link, July 1, 2024–June 30, 2025
• Authorized applying for a Minnesota DHS grant up to $1,092,000 for a Family Resource Center/One-Stop Shop, August 1, 2024–June 30, 2027
• Approved $298,000 not-to-exceed contract with Alia for consultation services through December 31, 2026

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The committee will meet to conduct a legislative update from the Office of the County Manager. This is a Committee of the Whole meeting where actions taken serve as recommendations to the County Board.

• Legislative Update from the Office of the County Manager

The General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole met on May 14, 2024, and approved its agenda by a 7-0 vote. The only substantive agenda item was an informational legislative update covering a lobbyist update, a post-session delegation meeting, and lottery dedication to the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund; no action was requested or taken. The meeting adjourned at 9:26 a.m. by a 7-0 vote. No public comments were received for this agenda.

• Approved the agenda (7-0)
• Received informational legislative update; no action requested or taken
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:26 a.m. (7-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board will hold a public hearing regarding amendments to the 2024 Dakota County fee schedule for property taxation and records. The agenda also includes discussions on legal strategies for property acquisition in Inver Grove Heights and various service contracts.

• Public hearing on new fees and amendments to the 2024 Dakota County fee schedule
• Joint Powers Agreement with Vermillion Township for Doffing Avenue resurfacing
• Contract renewal with Qualtrics LLC for survey software
• Legal strategy discussion for property acquisition in Inver Grove Heights
• Approval of final plats recommended by the Plat Commission

The Board approved new fees for the Occasional User Online Portal, including charges for online access and document views. They authorized a joint powers agreement with Vermillion Township for Doffing Avenue resurfacing and approved contracts for survey software and business analyst services. Additionally, the Board authorized legal strategies for acquiring right-of-way parcels for County Project 32-65 and held a closed session to discuss labor negotiations.

• Approved new fees for Occasional User Online Portal (7-0)
• Authorized Qualtrics LLC survey software contract up to $117,590 (7-0)
• Authorized ITR Group, Inc. business analyst contract up to $122,400 (7-0)
• Approved final plats for Prestwick Place 26th Addition and Authentix Lakeville Second Addition (7-0)
• Authorized joint powers agreement with Vermillion Township for Doffing Avenue resurfacing (7-0)
• Reappointed Theresa Kuplic to Lower Minnesota River Watershed District Board of Managers (7-0)
• Accepted library gifts totaling $8,180 from Friends of Wescott, Heritage, and Hastings libraries (7-0)
• Authorized legal strategy for acquisition of right-of-way parcels for County Project 32-65 (7-0)

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole will review several departmental updates. Discussions include future financial commitments to Dakota 911 and an update on American Rescue Plan Act funding.

• 2024 Board Priorities First Quarter Update
• Legislative Update from the Office of the County Manager
• Discussion on future County financial commitments to Dakota 911
• Update on American Rescue Plan Act funding
• Update on Library Strategic Planning

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the April 23, 2024, meeting. All other agenda items were presented for informational purposes only, and no substantive policy or financial decisions were made.

• Approved meeting agenda (6-0, 1 excused)
• Approved April 23, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0, 1 excused)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review several items including park accessibility upgrades at Lebanon Hills and road design work in Lakeville. The meeting also includes a public hearing regarding the 2024 Action Plan for community development grants.

• Public hearing for the FY 2024 Community Development Block Grant, HOME, and Emergency Solutions Programs
• Bid award for Lebanon Hills Park education and accessibility improvements via Ebert Inc.
• Contract for North Creek Greenway project between CSA Highway 42 and 147th Street in Apple Valley
• Design contract for interchange improvements at CSA Highway 50 and Interstate 35 in Lakeville
• Contract for liquid chloride application on Dakota County gravel roads via EnviroTech Services, Inc.

The Board approved numerous contracts and budget amendments, including a $1.47 million engineering contract for the I-35/CSAH 50 interchange in Lakeville and a $537,000 contract for Lebanon Hills Park improvements. The board also authorized a $269,820 amendment to the Kaposia Library construction contract and rejected all bids for Law Enforcement Center renovations due to high costs. Additionally, the board scheduled a public hearing for new county fees and approved several social service grants and contracts.

• Approved $1,466,232 contract with SRF Consulting for I-35/CSAH 50 interchange design (7-0)
• Approved $537,000 contract with Ebert Inc. for Lebanon Hills Park improvements (7-0)
• Rejected all bids for Law Enforcement Center locker and wellness room renovations (7-0)
• Approved $269,820 contract amendment with Donlar Construction for Kaposia Library (7-0)
• Approved $234,467 contract with Tlalli Collaborative for Parks 2050 Vision Plan (7-0)
• Approved $350,000 contract with EnviroTech Services for gravel road liquid chloride (7-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for new county fees on May 7, 2024 (7-0)
• Approved $428,000 allocation for emergency rental assistance services (7-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Regional Railroad Authority will review the approval of meeting minutes from February 27, 2024. The board is also considering authorization for a joint powers agreement with Dakota County and an amendment to the 2024 Capital Improvement Program and Budget.

• Approval of February 27, 2024 meeting minutes
• Authorization to execute Joint Powers Agreement with Dakota County
• Amendment to 2024 Dakota County Regional Railroad Authority Capital Improvement Program and Budget

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The committee will receive an update on the executive search to fill the pending County Manager vacancy and a legislative update from the Office of the County Manager. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from April 9 and April 16, 2024.

• Update on executive search for County Manager vacancy
• Legislative update from the Office of the County Manager
• Approval of minutes from April 9 and April 16, 2024

The General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole met on April 23, 2024, and approved its agenda and the minutes of its April 9 and April 16 meetings. The committee received informational updates on state legislative matters and on the executive search to fill the pending County Manager vacancy; no action was requested or taken on either. No County Manager's report was given, and the meeting adjourned at 11:25 a.m.

• Approved the agenda (6 ayes, 1 excused)
• Approved minutes of the April 9 and April 16, 2024 meetings (6 ayes, 1 excused)
• Received legislative update as information only; no action requested
• Received update on executive search for pending County Manager vacancy as information only; no action requested
• Adjourned at 11:25 a.m. (7 ayes)

Physical Development Committee of the Whole

The committee will review several contract amendments for park and road projects. Members will also discuss permitting license plate readers in the county right-of-way and solid waste management plan revisions. These items are recommendations to the County Board.

• Contract for North Creek Greenway improvements in Apple Valley
• Bid award for Lebanon Hills Park accessibility improvements
• Design contract for I-35 and CSAsH 50 interchange improvements in Lakeville
• Discussion on permitting license plate readers in the county right-of-way
• Rejection of all bids for Law Enforcement Center renovations

The Physical Development Committee approved multiple contracts for park improvements, trail design, and road engineering to be sent to the Board of Commissioners. The committee also authorized the rejection of all bids for Law Enforcement Center renovations due to budget overruns.

• Approved $1.46M contract with SRF Consulting Group for CSAH 50 and I-35 interchange design (7-0)
• Approved $537,000 contract with Ebert Inc. for Lebanon Hills Park improvements (7-0)
• Approved $269,820 contract amendment for Kaposia Library project (7-0)
• Rejected all bids for Law Enforcement Center Locker and Wellness Room Renovations (7-0)
• Approved $175,000 contract with Landbridge Ecological for prairie vegetation management (7-0)
• Approved contract with LHB, Inc. for North Creek Greenway design (7-0)
• Authorized letters of support for I-494 E-ZPass federal grant funding (7-0)
• Approved delegation agreement with MN DNR for aquatic invasive species inspections (7-0)

Community Services Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing budget amendments and contract authorizations for various social services. Items include updates on the Homeward Path project and planning for a Family Resource Center. The committee will also consider allocating local affordable housing aid to rental assistance programs.

• Allocation of Local Affordable Housing Aid to Emergency Rental Assistance and Apartment Services
• Contract for transportation services with Uber Technologies, Inc.
• Budget amendments for Adult Protection Grant funding and new staff positions
• Update on Homeward Path project planning
• Application for the Sauer Family Foundation Grant

The Community Services Committee unanimously approved a consent agenda containing multiple contracts and budget amendments, including a $500,000 contract for service delivery design and a $120,000 annual contract with Uber for transportation services. The committee also authorized $428,000 in additional Affordable Housing Aid for emergency rental assistance and accepted state grants for adult protection and family prevention services. Several items, including updates on the Homeward Path project and child support programs, were informational only.

• Approved $500,000 contract with Clarity Solutions Group LLC for service delivery design (unanimous)
• Approved $120,000 annual contract with Uber Technologies for transportation services (unanimous)
• Approved $659,500 and $489,000 contracts with Guild for housing services (unanimous)
• Approved $428,000 allocation for emergency rental assistance (6-0)
• Approved $365,175 budget amendment for Adult Protection services and 3 new FTEs (unanimous)
• Approved $213,796 grant acceptance for Family First Prevention Services Act (unanimous)
• Approved $153,123 grant acceptance for Parent Support Outreach Program (unanimous)
• Approved application for up to $525,000 Sauer Family Foundation grant (6-0)

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole will meet on April 16, 2024, to approve its agenda, hear a legislative update from the County Manager's office, and allow public comments. Any actions taken are recommendations to the full Dakota County Board. This meeting agenda contains only procedural items and one informational report.

• Legislative update from the Office of the County Manager

The General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole met on April 16, 2024, and approved its agenda by a 7-0 vote. The only substantive item was a legislative update from Intergovernmental Coordinator Nathan Hanson with Dan Dwight (Stinson), covering a lobbyist update, meetings and events, and bills HF 4555, SF 4267 and SF 5353; the minutes state this was information only and no action was requested. The meeting adjourned at 11:11 a.m. by a 7-0 vote. No public comments were received for this agenda.

• Approved the agenda (7-0)
• Received legislative update on lobbyist activities, meetings and events, HF 4555, SF 4267 and SF 5353 — information only, no action requested
• Adjourned the meeting at 11:11 a.m. (7-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners will review several transportation contracts for highway pavement preservation and traffic signal replacement. The agenda also includes agreements for the Veterans Memorial Greenway and a closed session regarding legal strategy for property acquisitions in Eagan and Inver Grove Heights.

• Contract with ASTECH Corp for Highway Pavement Preservation Projects
• Joint Powers Agreement with City of Burnsville for traffic signal replacement at CSAsH 42 and Southcross Drive/Summit Oaks Drive
• Contract with Minnesota Petroleum Service, Inc. for a fuel island at Lebanon Hills Maintenance Facility
• Construction contract and agreement with Inver Grove Heights for Veterans Memorial Greenway
• Closed session regarding legal strategy for property acquisition in Eagan and Inver Grove Heights

The Board approved several transportation and infrastructure contracts, including a major trail segment in Inver Grove Heights. They also authorized a $1.55M property rights settlement and various road preservation projects.

• Approved $2.7M contract with Max Steininger, Inc. for Veterans Memorial Greenway Phase 1 (7-0)
• Authorized $1.55M settlement for property rights acquisition for Projects 26-54 and 63-27 (7-0)
• Approved $863,458.95 contract with ASTECH Corp. for highway pavement preservation (7-0)
• Authorized $749,985 contract with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. for CSAH 54 preliminary engineering (7-0)
• Approved $408,883 contract with Minnesota Petroleum Service, Inc. for Lebanon Hills fuel island (7-0)
• Authorized joint powers agreement with City of Burnsville for traffic signal replacement at CSAH 42 (7-0)
• Approved $38,572.02 contract amendment with Qmatic Corporation for queuing technology (7-0)
• Proclaimed April 7-13, 2024, as National Library Week in Dakota County (7-0)

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole will review a legislative update from the Office of the County Manager. The committee will also discuss property taxation, including an overview of new document services, recommended fees, and an update on the Mapping Prejudice project.

• Overview of new property document services
• Discussion of recommended new service fees
• Update on Mapping Prejudice project
• Legislative update from the Office of the County Manager

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review several items including park maintenance contracts, transportation engineering, and public health grants. Discussion includes various land easements, infrastructure improvements, and community service agreements.

• Public hearing regarding Farmington Health Services project and tax exempt obligations
• Contract amendment for Veterans Memorial Greenway design in Inver Grove Heights and Eagan
• Construction contract for Lebanon Hills Maintenance Facility with Rochon Corporation
• Right of way acquisition for multiuse trail on County Road 4 in West St. Paul
• Box culvert contract for roundabout at County State Aid Highway 46 and 85

The Board awarded a construction contract for a new maintenance facility in Lebanon Hills Regional Park and approved several infrastructure projects, including greenway expansions and road redesigns. It also authorized funding for opioid settlement activities and homeless prevention services.

• Awarded $14.33M contract to Rochon Corporation for Lebanon Hills Maintenance Facility (6-0)
• Approved $195,000 in opioid settlement funds for six Dakota County cities (6-0)
• Authorized $1.12M contract amendment for road projects 26-54 and 63-27 (6-0)
• Approved $196,375 to acquire land for Vermillion River Hastings Greenway and road ROW (6-0)
• Approved $144,163 in additional Local Homeless Prevention Aid funds (6-0)
• Authorized $518,380 contract with Kimley-Horn for 70th Street redesign (6-0)
• Approved right-of-way acquisition for West St. Paul multiuse trail (4-2)
• Approved position profile to recruit for pending County Manager vacancy (6-0)

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The committee will discuss the Global Green Expo 2031 and receive a legislative update from the County Manager. A closed executive session is scheduled to review the current cyber threat landscape and IT security measures.

• Discussion on Global Green Expo 2031
• Legislative update from the Office of the County Manager
• Closed executive session regarding cyber security threats and measures
• Approval of minutes from March 12 and March 19, 2024

The General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole met on March 26, 2024, with Commissioner Atkins chairing in the absence of Committee Chair Workman. The committee approved its agenda and the minutes of the March 12 and March 19, 2024 meetings on 5-0 votes, with Commissioner Hamann-Roland excused. On the Global Green Expo 2031 item, the committee expressed interest in serving as fiscal agent and directed staff to work with the County Attorney and Community Development Agency staff to evaluate potential MOU terms; staff were asked to return at a future date. The committee also received a legislative update and approved a closed executive session on cyber security, which ran from 10:19 a.m. to 11:09 a.m.

• Approved agenda (5-0, Hamann-Roland excused)
• Approved minutes of March 12 and March 19, 2024 meetings (5-0, Hamann-Roland excused)
• Directed staff to evaluate potential MOU terms for Global Green Expo 2031 with County Attorney and Community Development Agency staff; no action requested
• Approved closed executive session on cyber security (5-0, Hamann-Roland excused)
• Adjourned at 11:09 a.m. (5-0, Hamann-Roland excused)

Physical Development Committee of the Whole

The committee will review the preliminary 2025 draft Facilities Capital Improvement Program and the Parks, Greenways, and Natural Systems 2050 Vision Plan. The agenda also includes several administrative authorizations regarding park maintenance, trail design, and road engineering.

• Contract amendment for Greenway Trail and Veterans Memorial Greenway design
• Joint Powers Agreement with City of Rosemount for Flint Hills Park segment
• Contract with Native Resource Preservation, LLC for Lebanon Hills vegetation management
• Bid award to Rochon Corporation for Lebanon Hills Maintenance Facility construction
• Engineering services contract for County State Aid Highway 26

The Physical Development Committee of the Whole approved a consent agenda of 15 items, all recommended for action by the full Board of Commissioners on 3/26/2024. The largest item authorizes a contract with Rochon Corporation not to exceed $14,333,000 for the Lebanon Hills Maintenance Facility. Other approvals included a $991,055 contract amendment for the Veterans Memorial Greenway, a $1,121,450 amendment to the S.M. Hentges & Sons contract, and scheduling an April 23, 2024 public hearing on the FY 2024 CDBG, HOME, and ESG action plan. Three regular agenda items were information only with no action requested.

• Approved consent agenda items 4.1–4.15, all recommended for Board action on 3/26/2024 (6 ayes, 1 excused)
• Approved contract with Rochon Corporation not to exceed $14,333,000 for Lebanon Hills Maintenance Facility (6 ayes, 1 excused)
• Approved $991,055 contract amendment with Short-Elliot-Hendrickson for Veterans Memorial Greenway, total amended contract not to exceed $2,594,796 (6 ayes, 1 excused)
• Approved $1,121,450 first amendment to S.M. Hentges & Sons contract, total $25,897,915.25 for County Projects 26-54 and 63-27 (6 ayes, 1 excused)
• Approved $518,380 contract with Kimley-Horn for preliminary engineering on CSAH 26 projects 26-60 and 26-68 (6 ayes, 1 excused)
• Approved up to $196,375 to acquire property in Hastings for Vermillion River Hastings Greenway and right of way (6 ayes, 1 excused)
• Scheduled April 23, 2024 public hearing on FY 2024 CDBG, HOME, and ESG action plan (6 ayes, 1 excused)
• Approved amended natural area conservation easement on Estate of Patrick McCarthy property (6 ayes, 1 excused)

Community Services Committee of the Whole

The committee will review the Community Corrections 2023-2027 Comprehensive Plan and updates on truancy reduction and Aspen House. The agenda also includes several consent items regarding public health grants, homelessness prevention, and opioid settlement agreements with local cities.

• Approval of Community Corrections 2023-2027 Comprehensive Plan
• Update on Truancy Reduction Program
• Update on Aspen House and contract amendment
• Joint powers agreements with cities for opioid settlement activities
• Grant funds for local homelessness prevention aid

The committee approved several grants and contracts for public health, homeless prevention, and youth services. Key actions included allocating opioid settlement funds to local cities and increasing funding for street outreach and behavioral health services.

• Approved up to $195,000 in opioid settlement funds for Farmington, Hastings, Mendota Heights, Rosemount, South St. Paul, and West St. Paul (4-1)
• Approved $204,000 contract with Collaborative Safety, LLC for staff safety training
• Approved $9,045,450 in funds for the Minnesota Family Investment Program (2024-2025)
• Approved $146,832 MDH grant for foundational public health and added 1.0 FTE Environmental Health Supervisor
• Approved $144,163 in additional Local Homeless Prevention Aid for 360 Communities
• Increased street outreach contract with Ally Supportive Services, LLC by $100,000 to $202,000
• Increased Behavioral Dimensions Inc. contract for in-home services to $200,000
• Approved $181,000 reimbursement and per diem rate increase for Nexus Family Healing at Aspen House

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The committee will consider approving the position profile for the vacant County Manager role. The Office of the County Manager is also scheduled to provide a legislative update.

• Approval of County Manager position profile to fill pending vacancy
• Legislative update from the Office of the County Manager

The committee reviewed a proposed job profile for the vacant County Manager position and directed staff to make updates before presenting the revised version to the full County Board on March 26. No vote was taken on the profile itself. The committee also received an informational update on state legislative priorities, including bills related to capital projects and housing development.

• Agenda approved (6-0-1)
• County Manager position profile: staff directed to revise and present to Board on March 26 (no vote)
• Legislative update received for information only (no action)
• Meeting adjourned (5-0-2)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review various transportation projects, including a new roundabout in Burnsville and trail improvements in Mendota Heights and West St. Paul. The agenda also includes authorizations for public health grants and software contracts.

• Construction contract for a new roundabout on County State Aid Highway 11 at Burnsville Parkway
• Contract for Delaware Avenue Trail Gap and school safety in Mendota Heights and West St. Paul
• Authorization to submit a grant application for maternal and postpartum health services
• Intersection improvements along County State Aid Highway 28 in Eagan
• Software contract with IGM Technology Corp. for budgeting and planning

The Board approved several infrastructure projects, including a $11M road reconstruction in Lakeville and a $1.9M roundabout in Burnsville. The Board also authorized grants for bridge replacements and substance use disorder support for pregnant families.

• Approved $11,016,987.82 contract with McNamara Contracting Inc. for CSAH 9 in Lakeville (7-0)
• Approved $1,995,860.93 contract with Park Construction Company for roundabout at CSAH 11 and Burnsville Parkway (7-0)
• Approved $1,760,354.90 contract with McNamara Contracting, Inc. for CSAH 28 improvements in Eagan (7-0)
• Approved $1,322,057.28 contract with OMG Midwest Inc. for Delaware Avenue Trail Gap and School Safety (7-0)
• Authorized grant application for $123,000/year for pregnant/postpartum substance use disorder support (7-0)
• Approved $230,000 contract with IGM Technology Corp. for budgeting software (7-0)
• Approved $200,000 contract with Ehlers, Inc. for financial advisory services (7-0)
• Accepted $33,984 in donations for Dakota County Library (7-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The scheduled meeting for the Dakota County Regional Railroad Authority has been canceled. No business or discussion items are listed for this date.

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole will review a legislative update from the Office of the County Manager. The committee will also receive an update on 2024 elections and consider a contract amendment for armored transportation services.

• Contract amendment with Brink’s U.S. for armored transportation services
• 2024 Elections update
• Office of the County Manager legislative update

The General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole approved a consent agenda that included a contract amendment with Brink's U.S. for armored transportation services, authorizing $240,000 for a three-year term with options to renew, for a total contract amount of $430,400. The committee also directed staff to prepare applications for four of five potential 2025 LCCMR projects and to support a city application for a fifth. An elections update and a legislative update were received as information only, with no action taken. All votes recorded 6 ayes and 1 excused (Commissioner Hamann-Roland, present via Zoom but not part of the voting quorum).

• Approved consent agenda including contract amendment with Brink's U.S. for armored transportation services, $240,000 for three-year term, total contract amount $430,400 (6-0, 1 excused)
• Approved minutes of February 27, 2024 meeting (6-0, 1 excused)
• Directed staff to prepare LCCMR applications for four projects: Thompson County Park, Lake Byllesby Regional Park, Spring Lake Park Reserve, and Mill Town State Trail/Future County park Conservation Area (no vote recorded)
• Directed staff to work with City of South Saint Paul to support a city application for Mississippi River Greenway Kaposia Landing Loop Trail (no vote recorded)
• Received 2024 Elections Update as information only; no action requested
• Received Legislative Update as information only; no action requested
• Adjourned at 11:27 a.m. (6-0, 1 excused)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review several committee recommendations including public health grants and park maintenance. The meeting includes discussions on property acquisitions, transportation engineering, and various budget amendments.

• $15,000 allocation for nasal naloxone purchase
• Construction contract for Western Service Center Data Room Chiller Replacement
• Engineering services for County State Aid Highway 46 in Rosemount
• Acquisition of Oliver Family Property in the City of Empire
• Right of way acquisition for County State Aid Highway 32 in Inver Grove Heights

The Board accepted $10.035 million in federal grants for the Veterans Memorial Greenway and I-35/CSAH 50 interchange. Other key actions included increasing law library filing fees and authorizing several land acquisitions for greenways and road projects.

• Accepted $10,035,000 in federal funding for Veterans Memorial Greenway and I-35 & CSAH 50 Interchange (7-0)
• Increased criminal court filing fee from $5 to $15 and civil/conciliation fees from $12 to $15, effective July 1, 2024 (7-0)
• Approved $2.2M in appraised values for right-of-way acquisition for County Project 32-65 in Inver Grove Heights (7-0)
• Authorized $20,000 Option to Purchase Agreement for the Oliver family property in Empire (7-0)
• Awarded $102,000 contract to Uhl Company, Inc. for Western Service Center chiller replacement (7-0)
• Approved $501,800 contract with Leo A Daly for Wentworth Library design services (7-0)
• Allocated $15,000 in opioid settlement funds to purchase nasal naloxone (7-0)
• Authorized 3.0 FTE additions to support the Carver Dakota Veteran Treatment Court (7-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Dakota County Regional Railroad Authority will discuss its priorities for 2024. The agenda also includes approval of the meeting agenda and minutes from January 2, 2024.

• Discussion of 2024 Regional Railroad Authority priorities
• Approval of January 2, 2024, meeting minutes

The Authority approved the agenda and the minutes from the January 2, 2024 meeting. Members discussed shifting projects funded by the Authority Fund Balance to the 2024 Capital Improvement Program, but no formal action was taken on this item.

• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved January 2, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)

General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole

The General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole will review updates regarding the executive search for a new County Manager. The committee is also scheduled to discuss legislative updates and potential revisions to policy 1002.

• Update on executive search to fill pending County Manager vacancy
• Approval of revisions to Policy 1002 regarding development and revision of policies
• Legislative update from the Office of the County Manager

The Committee approved revisions to Policy 1002 to ensure policies are inclusive and serve diverse community needs. Staff were directed to pursue $3 million in estimated annual allocations for shelter and support grants. The Committee also authorized a public hearing regarding health care facilities in Farmington, pending city approval.

• Approved revisions to Policy 1002 Development and Revision of Policies (7-0)
• Directed staff to pursue $3 million for shelter and support grants
• Directed staff to proceed with a public hearing for health care facilities at 905 Elm Street in Farmington, pending City of Farmington approval
• Approved meeting minutes from February 6 and February 20, 2024 (7-0)

Board Work Session

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners and the Planning Commission are holding a joint work session. The meeting is intended for discussion and direction regarding the 2024 Planning Commission Work Plan Projects.

• Introduction to 2024 Planning Commission Work Plan
• Overview of projects

Physical Development Committee of the Whole

The Physical Development Committee approved several infrastructure contracts and park planning initiatives for recommendation to the Board of Commissioners. Key actions included advancing Thompson County Park designs and adopting long-range plans for the Miesville Ravine Park Reserve.

• Recommended adoption of Miesville Ravine Park Reserve Long-Range and Natural Resource Management Plans (6-0)
• Approved $113,989 contract amendment for Thompson County Park Phase II schematic design (6-0)
• Approved $102,000 contract with Uhl Company, Inc. for Western Service Center chiller replacement (6-0)
• Approved $452,790.75 contract with TKDA for CSAH 46 design services (6-0)
• Authorized $20,000 Option to Purchase Agreement for Oliver family property in Empire (6-0)
• Approved joint powers agreement with West St. Paul for Thompson Oaks Greenway maintenance (6-0)
• Authorized Minnesota GreenCorps Host Site Application for groundwater plan support (6-0)