Freeborn County public meetings in 2023

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet for a special session to consider a resolution adopting an Employee Sick and Safe Time (ESST) Policy. The meeting also includes the approval of claims.

• Resolution adopting an Employee Sick and Safe Time (ESST) Policy
• Approval of claims

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to approve the 2024 County Budget and final tax levy. The agenda also includes a proposed 3% cost of living adjustment for all county employees.

• Approval of 2024 County Budget and final tax levy
• Proposed 3% cost of living adjustment for all union and non-union employees
• CSAH 26 (810th Avenue) paving award presentation
• Approval of various service agreements for Human Services
• Grant contract agreements for Child and Teen Checkup Outreach and Emergency Preparedness

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review several administrative resolutions, including the final 2024 tax levy and county budget. The meeting also includes discussions on service agreements for human services and various departmental reports.

• Approval of 2024 County Budget and final 2024 tax levy
• 3% cost of living adjustment to the wage scale for all employees effective January 2024
• CSAH 26 (810th Avenue) Paving Award Presentation
• Multiple Purchase of Service Agreements for Human Services (2024-2025)
• Grant contract agreements with Minnesota Department of Human Services and Department of Health

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on December 7, 2023. The meeting is scheduled to discuss the proposed tax levy and the annual operating budget for the 2024 calendar year.

• Public hearing for Truth in Taxation regarding the 2024 tax levy
• Discussion of the 2024 annual operating budget

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a workshop to discuss various departmental updates. Topics include public health funding, the 2024 highway project overview, and budget-to-actual comparisons.

• Public Health funding for foundational responsibilities and response sustainability
• 2024 Highway Project Overview and Five-Year Bridge Plan
• Proposed change to website for highway construction public notices
• Discussion on elected official salaries and COLA
• Ackland repurchase of tax forfeiture property

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider several personnel appointments and administrative resolutions. Key items include the appointment of a County Administrator and the promotion of a Human Resources Manager.

• Appointment of Ryan Rasmusson as County Administrator
• Promotion of Erin Hornberger to Human Resources Manager
• Approval of County feedlot delegation workplan
• Setting the date for the Completion Hearing on Freeborn County Ditch J21, Branch A North, Repair and Improvement project
• Approval of 2023 Change Fund/Impress Cash Fund appropriation

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will meet to discuss several departmental resolutions and approvals. Key items include the 2024 solid waste fee and a road improvement project for Bancroft Township.

• Approval of 2024 Solid Waste Fee
• County sponsorship for Bancroft Township Local Road Improvement Project application
• State-County CMH Screening Grant Contract for 2024
• Acceptance of $210 donation for CVCC
• Approval of drainage ditch repairs

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting to enter a closed session. The purpose of the session is to review and evaluate the performance of Interim County Administrator Ryan Rasmusson.

• Performance evaluation of Interim County Administrator Ryan Rasmusson

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is holding a workshop to discuss staffing, budget, and strategic planning. The meeting includes reviews of salary requests and potential changes to probation services.

• Discussion on County Administrator and Human Resources positions
• Salary requests from Sheriff Ryan Shea and County Attorney David Walker
• 2024 COLA discussion
• Alden LRIP Letter of Support
• October Budget to Actual review

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing and consider adopting Ordinance 2023-00 regarding cannabis use in public places. The board will also review highway funding resolutions and liquor license applications.

• Public hearing and potential adoption of Ordinance 2023-00 regulating cannabis and cannabis derived products in public places
• Consideration of On-Sale 3.2 Beer and Wine On-Sale licenses for Three Oaks Wines/Vineyards & Winery
• Resolutions for LRIP funding support for Towns, Townships, and Freeborn County
• Approval of rehabilitation for various culverts on CSAH 29 and replacement of a self-propelled broom
• Authorization of a Housing Tax Abatement

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners and Department Heads are meeting for a strategic planning session. The meeting is scheduled for November 6, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Freeborn County Historical Museum.

• Strategic planning session with Department Heads

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss several administrative resolutions and department reports. Key items include a proposed cannabis ordinance and a rezoning request. The board will also consider agreements for regional contracting and public health grants.

• Proposed scheduling of a Public Hearing for a Cannabis Ordinance
• Rezoning of Parcel ID 08.020.0331 from Agricultural District to Country Homes District
• 2-year Interagency Agreement with Region 10 Counties for Regional Contracting Services
• Grant contract agreement with Minnesota Department of Health for Bridge Access Program
• Setting of 2024 Payable Ditch Assessments

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is meeting for a workshop to discuss various department updates. Topics include government center security, a cannabis ordinance, and several interim leadership positions.

• Monarch Butterfly Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances
• Digital Messaging Board at Fairgrounds
• EMAC Request for Hawaii Assignment
• Cannabis Ordinance update
• Budget uses from Committed Fund Balances

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will meet to review administrative reports and a consent agenda. The session includes a proposed resolution for an order form involving Pictometry International Corp. and the Minnesota Counties Computer Cooperative.

• Resolution for an Order Form between Freeborn County, Pictometry International Corp., and Minnesota Counties Computer Cooperative
• Approval of drainage ditch repairs
• 2024 Department of Public Safety Grant Agreement
• October 2023 Domestic Violence Awareness Proclamation
• Approval of regular full-time status employees

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will review a proposal to increase the Sheriff's Office fee for service. The board is also considering a joint powers agreement for the Minnesota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and final payments for two highway projects.

• Proposed increase of Sheriff’s Office Fee for Service from $65 to $75
• Joint Powers Agreement with the State of Minnesota for the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC)
• Final payment for highway project CP 023-FRG-999
• Final payment for highway project CP 023-MOL-006
• Resolution declaring the existence and sale of surplus County Property

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a workshop to discuss several administrative and policy items. The session includes reviews of the county budget and a proposed cannabis ordinance.

• Discussion on Cannabis Ordinance
• Budget Review
• Discussion on the repurchase of Ackland properties
• Discussion on Deputy billing rate change
• Joint Powers Agreement with the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider the preliminary 2024 budget and tax levy. The meeting includes decisions on watershed management plans, land sales to cities, and various personnel and equipment contracts.

• Preliminary 2024 Tax Levy and Budget
• Expansion of Conditional Use Permit #94 for a 3,000 sq. ft. structure at 75225 255th Street
• Sale of blighted parcels to the City of Alden and City of Albert Lea
• Purchase of ExpressVote equipment from ES&S Voting Equipment
• Adoption of the Le Sueur River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan

The Board approved the implementation of the Le Sueur River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan and associated partnership agreements. The Board also authorized the sale of blighted tax-forfeited lands to the cities of Alden and Albert Lea.

• Adopted Le Sueur River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan (Res 23-248)
• Approved Le Sueur River Watershed Partnership Joint Powers Agreement
• Approved Le Sueur River Watershed Partnership By-Laws
• Approved Memorandum of Agreement for the Blue Earth 1W1P
• Approved amendment to Conditional Use Permit #94 for a 3,000-SF accessory structure (Res 23-252)
• Approved sale of blighted parcels to the City of Alden (Res 23-253)
• Approved sale of blighted parcels to the City of Albert Lea (Res 23-254)
• Approved election services contract with Independent School District 242 (Res 23-255)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a workshop to review the final preliminary budget. The session includes discussions on cannabis ordinances, scholarship funds, and highway improvements.

• Final Preliminary Budget Review
• Discussion on Cannabis Law / Ordinances
• Decommitting Freeborn County Promise Scholarship Fund
• MOU between Freeborn County and LELS representing the Dispatcher Bargaining Unit
• Local Road Improvement Program (LRIP) overview and road sweeper replacement

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will meet to discuss personnel appointments, land use permits, and equipment purchases. The session includes reviews of department reports and the consideration of several resolutions for county operations.

• Hiring of Tim Fulton for the vacant IT Director position at Grade 22, Step 2
• Conditional use permit #407 for a home occupation in Section 4 of Pickerel Lake Township
• Conditional use permit #408 for grain storage structures in Section 21 of Freeborn Township
• Grant from MN Dept. of Health CDC for Guardian RFID Systems and maintenance
• Authorization for the early purchase of a crack seal trailer

The Board approved a $111,320.64 grant for an inmate tracking system and granted two conditional use permits for home and grain storage. They also authorized the purchase of a crack seal trailer and approved several donations for the Sheriff's Office and Adult Detention Center.

• Approved $111,320.64 MN Dept of Health grant for Guardian RFID system
• Granted conditional use permit for home occupation to Shane Farris
• Granted conditional use permit for grain storage to Michael Hunnicutt
• Authorized $63,550 purchase of a new crack seal trailer
• Approved $127,637.40 final payment to Freeborn County Coop Oil
• Approved sale of surplus 2013 Ford F-450 and 2015 Flail Mower
• Accepted donations of quilts from Pieces of Hope and a TV from Crossroads Church
• Granted tobacco license to Dhillon Enterprise, LLC (Clarks Grove Market)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will conduct a workshop to review the final preliminary budget. The meeting includes discussions on highway equipment and a grant for jail RFID technology.

• Final preliminary budget review
• Grant from MN Dept of Health for Guardian RFID for the jail
• Purchase of a crack seal trailer
• West Side of Grandstand improvements
• Proposal to have an employment attorney update the Personnel Manual

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will meet to discuss several departmental resolutions and administrative updates. Key items include a housing tax abatement in Albert Lea and various grant applications.

• Housing Tax Abatement on a new home within the City of Albert Lea
• Repairs to County Ditch No. 49 Section 9 and 16-101-20 of Shell Rock Township
• 2021 Emergency Management Performance Grant Application
• Grant project agreement with Minnesota Department of Health for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Family Home Visiting program
• Funding for video upgrades for Courtrooms 2 & 3

The Board approved a housing tax abatement for a single-family home in Albert Lea and authorized repairs to County Ditch No. 49. The Board also accepted two detention deputy resignations and approved a public health grant contract.

• Approved housing tax abatement for 1703 Crystal Drive, Albert Lea
• Approved 2021 Emergency Management Performance Grant
• Approved grant contract with MN Dept of Health for Family Home Visiting (2023-2027)
• Accepted resignations of Detention Deputies Grace Mens and Cole Prescott
• Approved filling two vacant Detention Deputy positions
• Approved repair Plan 2 for County Ditch No. 49 (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved benchmark entities list for David Drown Associates market analysis
• Postponed Resolution 23-216 until September 5, 2023

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet at the Freeborn County Fair Office. The purpose of the meeting is for the board to be recognized by the Freeborn County Fair Board before the opening grand stand show.

• Recognition of the Board of Commissioners by the Freeborn County Fair Board

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is meeting for a workshop to review budgets for the Sheriff's Office, Public Health, Human Services, and Environmental Services. The session includes an overall budget review and discussions on county administration and courtroom technology.

• Drainage repair work order for Section 9 of Shell Rock Township
• Budget discussions for Sheriff's Office, Public Health, Human Services, and Environmental Services
• Update on the County Administrator position
• Video updates to Courtrooms 2 & 3
• Overall budget review by Finance

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss department reports and administrative updates. The board is considering several resolutions regarding public health grants, courtroom technology, and a fraud prevention partnership.

• Cooperative Agreement with MN Prairie County Alliance for Fraud Prevention Investigation
• Donation of $748 for CVCC from Emmons Lutheran Church
• Video updates for Courtroom 2 and 3 in the Freeborn County Government Center
• Grant project agreement amendment with Minnesota Department of Health for Public Health Emergency Preparedness
• Annual report from Turtle Creek Watershed District

The Board approved a cooperative agreement with the Third Judicial District Court for the Veterans Treatment Court and accepted a public health grant. A proposal for courtroom video upgrades was tabled for further coordination. The Board also approved a fraud prevention program and a donation to the Crime Victims Crisis Center.

• Approved cooperative agreement for Veterans Treatment Court (July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024)
• Approved $34,346 grant amendment from MN Department of Health for Public Health Emergency Preparedness
• Approved Regional Administrative Agency Cooperative Agreement for Fraud Prevention Investigation Program
• Accepted $748 donation from Emmons Lutheran Church for the Crime Victims Crisis Center
• Tabled Resolution 23-216 regarding $110,000 for courtroom video upgrades until August 1, 2023
• Approved July 11, 2023 minutes via consent agenda
• Approved drainage repairs via consent agenda

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is meeting for a workshop to receive updates and discuss budgets. Topics include highway infrastructure, courtroom technology, and personnel compensation.

• Update on load postings for Freeborn County Bridges
• Highway budget discussion
• Video updates to Courtrooms 2 and 3
• Probation budget discussion
• DDA classification/compensation plan discussion

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss tax forfeiture parcel classifications and pricing for the 2023 sale. The board is also considering conditional use permits for mineral extraction and various departmental staffing and service agreements.

• Conditional Use Permit #405 for Ulland Brothers, Inc. to extract mineral materials in Bancroft Township
• Conditional Use Permit #406 for Ulland Brothers, Inc. to extract mineral materials in Albert Lea Township
• Resolutions to set prices and classify conservation and non-conservation tax forfeiture parcels for 2023 sale
• Consulting agreement with NIS (National Insurance Services) and audit services SOW with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA)
• Addition of one FTE Care Coordinator/Case Manager position for Home and Community Based Services

The Board authorized the sale of tax-forfeited lands scheduled for September 27, 2023, and granted two conditional use permits to Ulland Brothers, Inc. for mineral excavation. Additionally, the Board revoked a PACE special assessment and approved a road striping payment.

• Approved sale of tax-forfeited lands for September 27, 2023 (Res. 23-197, 23-198, 23-199)
• Granted conditional use permit to Ulland Brothers, Inc. for excavation at Parcel 13.016.0070 (Res. 23-201)
• Granted conditional use permit to Ulland Brothers, Inc. for excavation at Parcel 08.025.0020 (Res. 23-202)
• Revoked PACE special assessment on parcel 34.163.0030 (Res. 23-200)
• Approved $18,581.73 final payment to Sir Lines-A-Lot, LLC for road striping (Res. 23-203)
• Approved June 20, 2023 minutes (Res. 23-196)
• Approved drainage repairs (Res. 23-196)
• Approved regular full-time status for Grace Mens, Sheriff's Office Detention Deputy (Res. 23-196)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is holding a workshop to discuss requests from outside agencies and internal department updates. Topics include a proposed new RN position for Public Health and a strategic plan review.

• Requests from Humane Society and Historical Museum
• Proposed addition of an RN position to the Home and Community Based Services program
• Review of the Strategic Plan
• Audit Contract with CliftonAllenLarson

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss administrative appointments and personnel matters. The board will also hear an annual update from SMIF CEO Tim Penny.

• On-Sale Wine License with Strong Beer Authorization for Hickory Hills Campground in Nunda Township
• Appointment of two Shell Rock River Watershed District Managers
• Approval of drainage repairs
• Approval of regular full-time status employees
• Unpaid leave request for a Sheriff’s Office employee

The Board of County Commissioners approved over $2.3 million in claims across multiple funds. They appointed two new managers to the Shell Rock River Watershed District and granted a liquor license to Hickory Hills Campground.

• Approved $2,344,907.88 in claims across 10 funds
• Appointed Brad Kramer and Mike Lee to the Shell Rock River Watershed District Board of Managers
• Granted liquor license (On Sale – Wine License With Strong Beer Authorization) to Hickory Hills Campground in Nunda Township
• Approved Memorandum of Agreement with Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc. regarding Transport Deputy conversion to sick and vacation leave
• Approved regular full-time status for employees Bobbie Jo Attig, Chelsea Barrett, Lacey Karsjens, Karen Peterson, and Edward Young
• Approved unpaid leave for one Sheriff’s Office employee from June 23 to July 13, 2023
• Approved drainage repairs via consent agenda
• Approved June 6, 2023 meeting minutes

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is meeting for a workshop to discuss administrative updates and employee status. The session includes a review of the Shellrock River Watershed manager appointments and a discussion regarding the Well @ Work Clinic.

• Affirmation of full-time status for promoted/transferred employees
• Shellrock River Watershed manager re-appointments for July 1, 2023
• Well @ Work Clinic discussion with National Insurance Services
• IT Director and HR Manager update

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will review several resolutions including a joint trail action plan with the City of Albert Lea. The body is also considering personnel status changes and a compensation increase for the Interim County Administrator.

• Joint City of Albert Lea and Freeborn County Trail Action Plan
• Dairyland Power Cooperative Abatement
• Contract with Medical Consultant Dr. Michael Ulrich
• Compensation increase for Interim County Administrator Ryan Rasmusson
• Blue Earth River Watershed 1W1P support

The Board approved a property tax abatement for Dairyland Power Cooperative and adopted a joint trail action plan with the City of Albert Lea. Other actions included contracting a medical consultant for public health and approving over $4.4 million in claims.

• Approved $166,540 property tax abatement for Dairyland Power Cooperative
• Approved 2023 Joint City of Albert Lea and Freeborn County Trail Action Plan
• Contracted Dr. Michael Ulrich as Medical Consultant for Public Health (3-2)
• Approved $4,487,323.93 in claims across multiple funds
• Approved participation in 2023 State of MN Performance Measurement Program
• Supported Blue Earth River Watershed 'One Watershed, One Plan' project
• Set Ryan Rasmusson's interim administrator compensation at Grade 26, Step 6
• Placed Jeremy Peterson on regular full-time employment status

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is meeting for a workshop to discuss various departmental updates and administrative items. The session includes reviews of watershed planning and specific facility aesthetics. No final decisions are noted on the agenda.

• Blue Earth Watershed 1W1P discussion
• Dairyland Power Cooperative Abatement
• Metal roof colors for Freedom Rock structure
• Sheriff's Office pay grade change from Grade 12 to 13
• County Interim position discussion

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will review staffing reclassifications and appointments for the Sheriff's Office. The meeting includes decisions on conditional use permits for a campground and a cabin. Other items include scholarship recognition and various personnel status updates.

• Elimination of Court Security/Transport Deputy classification to add 6 Patrol Deputy positions
• Conditional Use Permit #403 for a 10-site campground in Shell Rock Township
• Conditional Use Permit #404 for a cabin in Manchester Township
• Acceptance of a $200 donation from Carlos Bautista Cruz for Sheriff's Office equipment
• Purchase of Services Agreement between Freeborn County and SCCBI for Psychiatry Services

The Board of Commissioners approved eliminating the Court Security/Transport Deputy classification to add six Patrol Deputy positions. They also authorized a structured lateral pay scale for experienced law enforcement applicants and appointed Tim Bennett as Chief Deputy.

• Eliminated Court Security/Transport Deputy classification and added 6 Patrol Deputy positions
• Approved lateral pay steps for law enforcement applicants based on prior experience
• Appointed Tim Bennett as Chief Deputy effective June 3, 2023
• Approved $4,576 grant from Freeborn County Partners in Prevention for juvenile training
• Authorized $31,423.17 final payment to Freeborn Construction, Inc. for fairgrounds improvements
• Approved $200 donation to the Sheriff's Office equipment fund
• Approved Purchase of Service Agreement for psychiatry services with South-Central Community-Based Initiative
• Proclaimed May 2023 as Mental Health Awareness Month and Foster Care Month

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is holding a workshop to review department updates and personnel changes. Discussions include Sheriff's Office deputy transitions and pay grades, as well as a report from the Albert Lea Public Library.

• Appointment of an ex-officio representative to the Library Advisory Board
• Sheriff's Office proposal to move patrol positions from Grade 12 to Grade 13
• Appointment of Tim Bennett as Chief Deputy
• LTD Broadband discussion regarding a DEED grant
• Recorder's Office requests for ergonomic desks and digitization of documentation

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider a contract with ISD #2886 Glenville-Emmons for August 8, 2023 election services. Members will also review the 2023 budget calendar and discuss a contract with Mike Humpal of South Central Service Cooperative.

• Contract with ISD #2886 Glenville-Emmons for August 8, 2023 election services
• Proposed Dates for the 2023 Budget Calendar
• Property Assessed Clean Energy special assessment on parcel 34.163.0030
• 2023 Tobacco License for Vet’s Oil Company, Inc., Manchester Township
• Service contract for CP 023-ENVS-998

The Freeborn County Board approved several resolutions including an $800,000 Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) special assessment on parcel 34.163.0030, a contract with Glenville-Emmons Schools for election services, and a tobacco license for United Fuels Midwest LLC. The board also approved out-of-state travel for three Veterans Court staff to a conference in Houston, Texas, and appointed Erin Hornberger as temporary permanent clerk. All votes were unanimous with no recorded dissents.

• Appointed Erin Hornberger as temporary permanent clerk for board meetings
• Approved consent agenda including April 18 minutes and drainage repairs
• Approved 2023 budget calendar dates
• Approved out-of-state travel for three Veterans Court staff to NADCP conference in Houston (Resolution 23-148)
• Approved election services contract with Independent School District 2886 for $1,500 (Resolution 23-149)
• Granted tobacco license to United Fuels Midwest LLC in Manchester Township (Resolution 23-150)
• Approved $800,000 PACE special assessment on parcel 34.163.0030 at 8.27% interest over 20 years (Resolution 23-151)
• Awarded contract CP 023-ENVS-998 for concrete driveway, parking, and drainage improvements at Environmental Services Building

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a special meeting to discuss the appointment and temporary delegation of duties for the County Administrator position. The board will also consider resolutions regarding personnel hiring and data requests.

• Appointment of an interim County Administrator
• Resolution for hiring a Human Resource Manager
• Resolution for dispersal of accrued PTO for Candace Pesch
• Resolution for dissemination of Data Practices Act request information
• Strategic Planning Session scheduled for April 28, 2023

The Board addressed the vacancy left by the termination of County Administrator Candace Pesch on April 18, 2023. Several resolutions were adopted to temporarily delegate administrative, financial, and personnel duties to other staff and external consultants.

• Appointed Chelsea Barrett as temporary clerk for the meeting
• Delegated approval of timesheets and reimbursements to the Finance Manager (Res 23-139)
• Assigned Personnel Director duties to Erin Hornberger at Grade 22, Step 1 (Res 23-140)
• Approved $4,900 annual consultation agreement with the Association of Minnesota Counties (Res 23-141)
• Approved Direct Placement Agreement with Doherty Staffing Solutions to hire a Human Resource Manager (Res 23-142)
• Approved payment of all accrued PTO to former employee Candace Pesch (Res 23-143)
• Directed former administrator's emails and phone calls be forwarded to Erin Hornberger (Res 23-144)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will review several liquor licenses and a hauler permit. The meeting includes discussions on budget amendments, the addition of two eligibility workers, and a performance evaluation for the Administrator in closed session.

• Liquor licenses for Harmony Park, Freeborn Lake Golf Course, and Hickory Hills Campground
• Hauler Permit for Harter’s Disposal of MN, LLC
• Service contract for CP 023-CULV-026
• Addition of two Eligibility Workers in Human Services
• Budget Amendments and committed fund balances as of 12/31/2022

The Board of Commissioners terminated County Administrator Candace Pesch in a 3-2 vote. The board also approved several liquor licenses, a road culvert contract, and budget amendments for federal recovery funds.

• Terminated County Administrator Candace Pesch (3-2)
• Approved $126,016 bid from Krueger Excavating for culvert project CP 023-CULV-026
• Approved 2022 budget amendments including $2,940,865 in Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds
• Approved adding two eligibility worker positions to the DHS Income Maintenance Unit
• Granted liquor licenses to Harmony Park, Freeborn Lake Golf Course, and Hickory Hills Campground
• Granted solid waste hauler permit to Harter’s Disposal of Minnesota, LLC
• Approved 2022 County Feedlot Officer Annual Report
• Approved $1,096,468.43 in claims for payment

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is holding a workshop to review personnel administration and various facility maintenance updates. Members will discuss budget items for probation and finance, as well as public health emergency unwinding. The meeting includes updates on a tornado shelter plan and the UP bike trail.

• Personnel Administration System review with Barna, Guzy & Steffen, Ltd.
• Maintenance updates on Hot Water Heating System, RTU 6 Ductwork, and roofing
• 2023 Detention Budget line item update
• Discussion on 2022 Fund Balance and Budget Changes
• Status and planning for a Tornado Shelter

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will review several highway project contract awards and annual road maintenance bids. The body is also considering personnel actions, including filling vacant detective and probation positions. Additionally, the board will discuss the Le Sueur River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan.

• Support for the Le Sueur River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan
• Acceptance of $300 and $500 donations for CVCC
• Annual Seasonal Bid Items and 2023 Annual Road Striping and Base Stabilization contracts
• Contract awards for projects CP 023-FRG-999, CP 023-MOL-006, CP 023-SAND-005, SAP 024-624-004, and SAP 024-626-023
• Filling of vacant Detective and Probation & Pre-Trial Assistant positions

The Board of County Commissioners approved multiple low bids for road stabilization, paving, and fairgrounds improvements. They also authorized filling vacant law enforcement and probation positions and accepted donations for the Crime Victims Crisis Center.

• Approved $7,867,650.05 bid from Ulland Brothers, Inc. for CSAH 26 (SAP 024-626-023)
• Approved $3,359,524.70 bid from Ulland Brothers, Inc. for CSAH 6, CSAH 34, and CR 81 (CP 023-MOL-006)
• Approved $484,756.25 bid from Ulland Brothers, Inc. for Fairgrounds improvements (CP 0223-FRG-999)
• Approved $300,292.75 bid from Ulland Brothers, Inc. for CSAH 24 (SAP 024-624-004)
• Approved $211,605.08 bid from Sir Lines-A-Lot, LLC for pavement marking (CP 023-M-002)
• Approved $119,955.00 bid from Freeborn Coop Oil Co. for base stabilization (CP 023-M-004)
• Approved filling vacant Freeborn County Detective and Probation & Pre-Trial Services Support positions
• Accepted donations of $300 from Nunda Township and $500 from Jennifer Vogt-Erickson and Jeshua Erickson for the CVCC

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will hear a presentation on the Hayward Solar Project. The board is also considering several resolutions regarding personnel vacancies, department contracts, and infrastructure projects.

• Hayward Solar Project presentation
• 5-year printer/copier agreement with MARCO Technologies, LLC
• Federal Force account for Clear Zone Maintenance Project on CSAH 26
• Sub-agreement with Shell Rock River Watershed District for implementation funding
• Contract with Public Health Corp for a Public Health Project Coordinator

The Board abolished the Department of Personnel and created a new Human Resource Manager position. Other actions included approving a $1.2M claims payment and authorizing participation in opioid settlement agreements.

• Abolished the Department of Personnel (Res. 23-104)
• Created and approved filling of Human Resource Manager position (Res. 23-105, 23-106, 23-107)
• Approved $1,215,764.40 in claims across multiple funds (Res. 23-108)
• Authorized participation in multistate opioid supply chain settlement agreements (Res. 23-096)
• Approved $276,760.44 final payment to Ulland Brothers Inc. for CSAH 26 work (Res. 23-090)
• Approved 5-year copier and printer contract with MARCO Technologies, LLC (Res. 23-092)
• Approved $136,552.00 CDC Federal Infrastructure grant agreement with MDH (Res. 23-095)
• Appointed Steve Kraushaar to the Cedar River Watershed District Board of Managers (Res. 23-099)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is meeting for a workshop to review department updates and administrative structures. Discussions include human services policies, HR staffing, and public health partnerships.

• Review of burial policy with Josh Fossom and Kasie Watkins
• Discussion on HR Department structure and HR position
• Partnering with Public Health Corps
• Out of state travel to inspect rooftop units
• Discussion on electronic waste dumping in ditches

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will conduct public hearings regarding the rerouting of Ditch 54 and the re-establishment of records for Ditches 4, 5, 80, and 82. The body will also consider service agreements for Human Services and a resolution supporting ARMER funding.

• Public hearing on petition to impound, reroute, divert, and partially abandon Freeborn County Ditch 54
• Public hearing for re-establishment of records for Freeborn County Ditches 4, 5, 80, and 82
• 2023-2024 Service Agreement between South-Central Community-Based Initiative and Human Services
• Resolution of Support for ARMER funding HF1075 / SF1576 and Public Safety Initiative
• Presentation of the 2023 Rose Olmsted Advocacy Award to Darcy Nielsen

The Board corrected official records for Ditches 4, 5, 80, and 82 and approved the impoundment and rerouting of Ditch 54. Additionally, the Board approved mental health service agreements and supported state legislation for public safety radio funding.

• Approved impoundment, reroute, and partial abandonment of Ditch 54 (5-0)
• Reestablished and corrected drainage system records for Ditch 4 (5-0)
• Reestablished and corrected drainage system records for Ditch 5 (5-0)
• Reestablished and corrected drainage system records for Ditch 80 (5-0)
• Reestablished and corrected drainage system records for Ditch 82 (5-0)
• Approved 2023-2024 Purchase of Service Agreement with South Central Community-Based Initiative
• Approved amendment to 2022 Purchase of Service Agreement with South Central Community-Based Initiative
• Adopted resolution supporting HF1075 / SF 1576 for public safety radio grants

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss personnel vacancies and administrative resolutions. The board is considering filling several positions across the Highway, DHS, and Personnel departments.

• Resolution for 2023 Tobacco Licenses for various establishments
• Approval of drainage repairs
• Resolution to increase Veterans Court Case Managers from 24 to 32 hours per week
• Filling of vacant positions: CP Case Manager, HS Technician Case Aide, Office Support Specialist—DHS, and Highway Maintenance Worker
• Resolution to fill the Director of Personnel position

The Board approved several staff promotions and resignations, granted tobacco licenses to seven applicants, and authorized out-of-state travel for public health staff. They also approved over $1 million in claims across various county funds.

• Approved $1,073,281.23 in claims across multiple funds
• Promoted Shane Classon to Highway Maintenance Supervisor ($79,527.55 annually)
• Approved tobacco licenses for A & S Stores, Geneva Bar & Grill, Freeborn County Co-op Oil, Han's Off-Sale, Hollandale Three in One Bar & Restaurant, Staples Enterprises, and Vet's Oil Company
• Approved out-of-state travel to Atlanta, GA for three Public Health staff
• Increased Veterans Court Case Manager hours from 24 to 32 hours per week
• Accepted resignations of Riley Jimenez and Cassandra Navarrete
• Approved filling vacancies for SW/Case Manager CPCW, HS Technician Case Aide, Office Support Specialist-DHS, and Highway Maintenance Worker
• Tabled resolution to fill Director of Personnel and Human Resources position

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a workshop to review administrative contracts and personnel policies. The meeting includes updates on highway projects, public health travel, and county ditch petitions.

• Discussion of Administrator Contract with Attorney David Schaps
• Review of Personnel Manual sections V, VI, and VII
• Petition to reroute and impound County ditch 54
• Out of state travel for 3 public health staff to Atlanta, GA
• London Township Bridge L5592 update

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will discuss several ditch projects and personnel changes. They are considering a resolution to decommit $1 million in funds for WCTA-Broadband and will hold a closed session to evaluate the County Administrator.

• Resolution to decommit $1 million for WCTA-Broadband
• Contract award for County Ditch No. J21
• Hearing dates for impound, rerouting, and abandonment of County Ditch No. 54
• Donation of $200 for CVCC
• Purchase of Services Agreement between DHS and Dr. Annette Smick

The Board awarded a repair and improvement contract for County Ditch No. J21 to Mensing Construction, LLC. Several hearing dates were set for March 7, 2023, regarding ditch impoundment, rerouting, abandonment, and record reestablishment. The Board also approved various personnel changes and a psychiatric services agreement.

• Awarded County Ditch No. J21 Repair & Improvement contract to Mensing Construction, LLC for $514,572.37
• Scheduled March 7, 2023 hearings for County Ditch No. 54 (Impound/Rerouting and Partial Abandonment)
• Scheduled March 7, 2023 hearings for record reestablishment of County Ditches No. 4, 5, 80, and 82
• Approved 2023 Purchase of Service Agreement with Dr. Annette Smick for psychiatric services
• Approved amended letter of support for AARP’s Age-Friendly Community (4-1)
• Tabled Resolution 23-025 to decommit $1,000,000 fund balance to WCTA-Broadband indefinitely
• Approved $1,700,358.03 in claims across multiple funds
• Approved filling vacancies for Financial Eligibility Worker, Detention Deputy, Probation Officer, Long Term Care RN/PHN/Social Worker, and Highway Maintenance Supervisor

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a workshop to discuss the de-committing of broadband funds. The session also includes discussions on the AARP Age Friendly Freeborn County initiative and daycare.

• De-committing broadband funds
• AARP Age Friendly Freeborn County
• Daycare discussion with ALEDA representatives

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will review several department reports and resolutions. Key items include funding changes for broadband and scholarships, as well as highway project grants and human services contracts.

• Resolution to decommit $1 million in funds for WCTA-Broadband
• Resolution of support for Corridors of Commerce Grant Application (CSAH 20 Interchange Project)
• Change of Commissioner/Diamond Jo scholarships to five $1,000 awards from ten $500 awards
• Purchase of Service Agreements with Dr. Annette Smick and Brian Vold
• Resolution to authorize loans from the General Fund to Ditches with 2022 shortages

The Board authorized $904,000 in General Fund loans to several county and judicial ditches. They updated Highway Department payroll policies to allow employees to choose between overtime pay and compensatory time. Other actions included approving human services contracts and a five-year bridge plan.

• Authorized $904,000 in loans from General Fund to various ditches (Adopted)
• Approved cost-share agreement with Agricultural Society for fairgrounds family pavilion (Adopted)
• Supported Corridors of Commerce grant application for I-90 and CSAH 20 interchange (Adopted)
• Adopted five-year bridge plan for replacement or rehabilitation of deficient bridges (Adopted)
• Approved 2023 Human Services contracts with Workforce Development, Inc. and Brian Vold (Adopted)
• Authorized out-of-state travel for child protection worker to Oklahoma (Adopted)
• Updated Highway Department policy to allow choice of overtime or comp time (Adopted)
• Approved $1,910,458.23 in claims across multiple funds (4-0, 1 abstention)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is conducting a workshop to review updates from various departments. Discussions include infrastructure grants, bridge lists, and personnel matters. No final decisions are recorded in this workshop agenda.

• Blue Earth Watershed 1W 1P update
• Public Health Infrastructure Grant Cooperative Agreement
• CSAH 20 interchange update
• Master Bridge List update
• Discussion on Diamond Jo Scholarship amount

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will elect a Chairman and Vice-Chairman for 2023. The body will also consider resolutions regarding crop damage rates, beaver trapping bounties, and several service contracts for Human Services.

• Setting 2023 Crop Damage Rates (Standing Crop and Not Planted) for Drainage Ditches
• Setting a $60.00 bounty on beaver trapping in county drainage ditches
• Purchase of Service Agreements with Dr. Annette Smick and Brian Vold
• Contract renewal with WDI for calendar year 2023
• Appointment of the Official Freeborn County Newspaper for 2023

The Board elected its 2023 Chairman and Vice-Chairman and adopted parliamentary rules. The board approved several financial resolutions, including crop damage rates for drainage ditches and a beaver trapping bounty. Personnel changes and the official county newspaper for 2023 were also finalized.

• Elected John Forman as Chairman and Brad Edwin as Vice-Chairman
• Adopted Robert’s Rules of Order as the 2023 parliamentary authority
• Appropriated $2,215 for a Change Fund and $600 for Petty Cash funds
• Set 2023 crop damage rates at $1,108/acre for corn and $754/acre for beans
• Approved $60 bounty per adult beaver tail for the Drainage Authority
• Set rate of $660 per acre for land not planted due to county projects
• Designated the Albert Lea Tribune as the official county newspaper
• Approved $465,534.37 in claims for payment by January 6, 2023