Rice County public meetings in 2025

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board will consider several items, including the retirement of a K‑9 unit, a purchase of a river boat and trailer, and a public hearing on changing the Circle Lake Improvement District board size. The board will also vote on a 2026‑2027 prosecution services agreement, disaster tax abatements, and the 2026 commissioner salary and paid family leave policy. A final payment on contract #2572 and the sale of county‑owned property are on the agenda.

• Approval of purchase of a river boat and trailer (Sheriff's Office)
• Public hearing request to change Circle Lake Improvement District board from 7 to 9 members
• 2026‑2027 agreement for prosecution services in Lonsdale
• Final payment for Highway Contract #2572
• Approval of sale of county‑owned property

The Rice County Board of Commissioners approved all agenda items unanimously, including a $43,870.29 purchase of a Pro-Drive river boat and trailer for the Sheriff's Office, a $1,421,761.54 payment of bills, and a 3.5% salary increase for commissioners (Resolution #25-058) with one dissenting vote. They also approved a public hearing for expanding the Circle Lake Improvement District Board, a prosecution services contract with Lonsdale, local option abatements, social services agreements, and a final highway payment.

• Approved $43,870.29 purchase of Pro-Drive river boat and trailer (5-0)
• Approved $1,421,761.54 in bills (5-0)
• Approved Resolution #25-058 setting commissioner salary at 3.5% increase (4-1, Hoisington dissenting)
• Approved public hearing for Circle Lake Improvement District expansion to 9 members (5-0)
• Approved prosecution services contract with City of Lonsdale for 2026-2027 (5-0)
• Approved local option abatements for three taxpayers (5-0)
• Approved final payment of $10,403.09 for highway project SAP 066-627-006 (5-0)
• Approved 2026 Paid Family Medical Leave Policy (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will adopt Resolution #25-057 to levy tax on taxable property and approve the 2026 budget. They will also adopt the 2026 fee schedule. The meeting includes reappointments of two County Extension members for three‑year terms and declarations of three fleet vehicles as surplus. Additional items cover permits, grant contracts, and other routine agenda matters.

• Adopt Resolution #25-057 levying tax on taxable property and adopting the 2026 budget
• Adopt the 2026 fee schedule
• Reappoint Rice County Extension Member Clarice DeGrood for a 3‑year term (2026‑2028)
• Reappoint Rice County Extension Member Sandi Fuchs for a 3‑year term (2026‑2028)
• Declare three fleet vehicles (2014 Chevrolet Impala VIN 2G1WA5E34E1115051, 2014 Chevrolet Impala VIN 2G1WA5E35E1115964, 2012 Chevrolet Impala VIN 2G1WF5E30C1266001) as county surplus

The Rice County Board of Commissioners approved the 2026 budget and tax levy, along with the 2026 fee schedule. They also approved several land-use permits, including plats, conditional use permits, and interim use permits for solar projects, and reappointed extension board members. The board sent an interim use permit for a solar project back to the Planning Commission for a reopened public hearing.

• Adopted Resolution #25-057 levying tax and adopting 2026 budget (5-0)
• Approved 2026 Fee Schedule (5-0)
• Approved Preliminary and Final Plat for Bruce Brumm in Wheatland Township (5-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Mike Bath in Walcott Township (5-0)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for Julia Romani in Wells Township (5-0)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for Jesse Dimond (New Energy Equity) in Northfield Township, Sections 18 and 17 (5-0 each)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for David Watts (US Solar) in Warsaw Township (5-0)
• Sent Interim Use Permit for Cole Bearden (New Leaf Energy) back to Planning Commission for reopened public hearing on Jan 8 (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the 2026 Truth & Taxation plan. The hearing is scheduled for Thursday, December 11, 2025 at 6:00 PM in the Commissioner’s Room of the Government Services Bldg. No other agenda items involve decisions or proposals.

• 2026 Truth & Taxation public hearing – Thursday, Dec 11, 2025, 6:00 PM, Commissioner’s Room / Government Services Bldg.

Planning Commission

The Rice County Planning Commission will consider applications for a preliminary and final plat to enlarge a residential lot, a conditional use permit for a riding and boarding stable, and several interim use permits for solar energy production facilities ranging from 3.25 MW to 4.00 MW. Each applicant and planning staff will present information before the commission votes to recommend approval, denial, or continuation. Items that need County Board approval will be heard at the December 16, 2025 meeting.

• Preliminary and Final Plat – Bruce Brumm, 4920 Jackson Ave, Webster (Zoned VMU)
• Conditional Use Permit – Mike Bath, 25739 Falk Ave, Faribault (Zoned A, Agricultural)
• Interim Use Permit – Julia Romani, 17943 Roberds Lake Blvd, Faribault (Zoned GDS, General Development Shoreland)
• Interim Use Permit – New Energy Equity (Hubers), 4.00‑MW solar facility, SW1/4 of NW1/4, Section 17, Northfield Township (Zoned A)
• Interim Use Permit – US Solar (DeGrood), 3.25‑MW solar facility, N1/2 of NW1/4, Section 11, Warsaw Township (Zoned URI, Urban Reserve Industrial)

The commission approved a preliminary and final plat for 4920 Jackson Ave in Webster. It also approved a conditional use permit for a horse riding and boarding facility at 25739 Falk Ave in Faribault. Finally, an interim use permit for a short‑term rental at 17943 Roberds Lake Blvd in Faribault was approved. All motions passed unanimously with votes from Julia Hogan, Garrett Johnson, and Matt Purfeerst.

• Approved preliminary and final plat for 4920 Jackson Ave (3-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for horse riding and boarding at 25739 Falk Ave (3-0)
• Approved interim use permit for short‑term rental at 17943 Roberds Lake Blvd (3-0)

Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board

The Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board will review the October 31, 2025 financial report, receive updates from the Operations Committee, and hear administrative updates including staffing and the 911 Center building project. New business items include a LOGIS Committee update, discussion of the Joint Powers Board Agreement, and reviews of the Image Trend interface and QA program.

• Review of Financial Report (October 31, 2025)
• Operations Committee Update
• Informational and Staffing Update
• 911 Center Building Project Update
• Joint Powers Board Agreement Discussion

The Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board approved its agenda, minutes, and October financials. They appointed Jennifer Colby as the alternate on the LOGIS Police Executive Steering Committee. The board also approved an agreement with Image Trend for fire‑reporting interface and a one‑year $28,000 contract with GovWorx for an AI quality‑assurance program. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October 31, 2025 financials (unanimous)
• Approved Jennifer Colby as LOGIS Police Executive Steering Committee alternate (unanimous)
• Approved agreement with Image Trend for Interface Fire Reporting (unanimous)
• Approved one‑year GovWorx contract for AI Quality Assurance, $28,000 (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

Commissioners will consider an amendment to adopt special assessments for the 2026 Circle Lake Improvement District, an interim use permit for New Leaf Energy at Poplar Grove Farms, and salary settings for the sheriff and county attorney. They will also vote on a resolution supporting Lonsdale’s request for Minnesota DOT funding for the Idaho Street Southwest Improvements Project and approve a contract for slope stabilization on Roberds Lake Boulevard. Additional items include a consent agenda for bill payments and public health updates.

• Amendment to Resolution 25-041 to adopt and confirm special assessments for the 2026 Circle Lake Improvement District
• Interim Use Permit for New Leaf Energy at Poplar Grove Farms – Section 23, Morristown Township
• Resolution #25-051 supporting the City of Lonsdale’s 2025 Local Road Improvement Program funding request for the Idaho Street Southwest Improvements Project
• Award of contract #2576 for slope stabilization on CSAH 11 (Roberds Lake Boulevard)
• Requests to set 2026 salaries for the Rice County Sheriff and the Rice County Attorney

The board unanimously approved several items, including a $460,000 contract to Carl Bolander & Sons, a resolution supporting Lonsdale’s Idaho Street road improvement funding, and salary resolutions for the sheriff and county attorney. It also approved a special assessment for the 2026 Circle Lake Improvement District and tabled an interim use permit for New Leaf Energy until the December 16 meeting. The consent agenda covering $159,617.02 in bills was approved, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved $460,000 contract #2576 to Carl Bolander & Sons (5-0)
• Approved Resolution #25-051 supporting Lonsdale Idaho Street road improvements (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution #25-052 setting 2026 salary for Rice County Sheriff (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution #25-053 setting 2026 salary for Rice County Attorney (5-0)
• Approved amendment of Resolution 25-041 for special assessment for 2026 Circle Lake Improvement District (5-0)
• Tabled Interim Use Permit for New Leaf Energy (Cole Bearden) to Dec 16 meeting (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $159,617.02 in bill payments (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will present the draft 2026‑2035 Transportation Improvement Plan and set dates for a public hearing on the plan and an open house for a shared‑use path next to County Road 20. Other agenda items include a resolution adopting special assessments for delinquent utilities, a renewal of a physical‑therapy agreement, a cooperative agreement for shore‑fishing structures, and discussion of adult‑services contracts and a donation to Friendship House.

• Resolution #25-042: adopt special assessments for delinquent utilities
• Agreement renewal for Kristen Cook – physical therapy services
• Resolution #25-049 and DNR cooperative agreement for shore fishing structures
• Adult Services contracts and donation to Friendship House
• Presentation of draft 2026‑2035 Transportation Improvement Plan; set date for public hearing and open house for shared‑use path adjacent to County Road 20

The Rice County Board approved several actions, most notably repealing Minnesota's moratorium on nuclear energy production (Resolution #25-050). It also adopted special assessments for delinquent utilities (Resolution #25-042) and renewed a home‑based physical therapy agreement. Additional approvals included multiple adult‑services contracts, a donation to Friendship House, and plans for shore fishing structures and transportation improvements.

• Approved Resolution #25-050 repealing Minnesota nuclear energy moratorium (3-2)
• Approved Resolution #25-042 adopting special assessments for delinquent utilities (5-0)
• Approved renewal agreement with Kristin Cook, RPT for home‑based physical therapy (5-0)
• Approved several adult services contracts (Alternative Resolutions Inc., Scott County Guardianship, LSS‑Guardianship, LBS‑SILS, Cedar Valley, LSS‑SILS) (5-0)
• Approved donation for Friendship House (5-0)
• Approved Resolution #25-049 and DNR agreement for up to six shore fishing structures on CSAH 12 (5-0)
• Approved public hearing for the 2026‑2035 Transportation Improvement Plan on Jan 13 2026 (5-0)
• Approved open house on Dec 16 2025 for shared‑use path adjacent to County Road 20 (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board will consider Resolution #25-041 to adopt and confirm special assessments for 2026 affecting the Circle Lake Improvement District. They will also discuss amendments to the zoning ordinance to allow solar energy production as an interim use in the Urban Reserve Industrial District. Additional items include several interim use permits for energy projects and contract awards for conservation building work.

• Resolution #25-041 – Adopt and confirm 2026 special assessments for Circle Lake Improvement District
• Resolution #25-046 – Amend Rice County Zoning Ordinance to permit solar energy production as an interim use in the Urban Reserve Industrial District
• Interim use permits for New Leaf Energy (Poplar Grove Farms, Section 23, Morristown Township) and other energy projects in multiple townships
• Award contracts for Conservation Building Part 1 and Part 2
• Resolution #25-044 – Grant application for Local Road Improvement Program (CSAH 20)

The Rice County Board approved a resolution amending the zoning ordinance to permit solar energy production as an interim use. It also tabled one interim use permit and approved several other permits, contracts, and grant applications. All actions were approved unanimously except the zoning amendment, which had one dissenting vote.

• Adopted Resolution #25-046 amending zoning ordinance for solar interim use (5-1)
• Tabled Interim Use Permit for Cole Bearden (New Leaf Energy) – moved to Dec 2 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for Angela Becker (Nokomis Energy) (unanimous)
• Approved contracts to NCC Builders and WEB Construction for Conservation Building repairs totaling $58,314.00 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution #25-044 supporting Local Road Improvement Program Grant (unanimous)
• Approved Rice County Family Services Collaborative‑Parent Leadership Training Institute Grant (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of the Henry Mower Rice Statue from the State of Minnesota (unanimous)
• Approved the consent agenda as presented (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will consider and vote on a tax abatement and a private development contract for KGP Telecommunications, LLC. The agenda includes public hearings on the tax abatement and contract, followed by board actions to adopt the respective resolutions. The same items are also on the Faribault City Council agenda.

• Resolution #25-047 – Approving tax abatement for KGP Telecommunications property in Rice County
• Resolution #25-048 – Approving contract for private development with KGP Telecommunications in Rice County
• Resolution 2025-304 – Approving tax abatement for certain property in the City of Faribault
• Resolution 2025-305 – Approving contract for private development with KGP Telecommunications in Faribault

The Rice County Board approved a tax abatement and a private‑development contract for KGP Telecommunications, LLC. Both actions were adopted by unanimous vote. The agenda and related public‑hearing motions were also approved.

• Approved agenda as presented (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: none)
• Approved opening of Tax Abatement and Business Subsidy public hearing (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: none)
• Approved closing of the public hearing (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: none)
• Approved Resolution #25-047 – Tax Abatement for certain property (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: none)
• Approved Resolution #25-048 – Contract for private development for certain property (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: none)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: none)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will consider variance requests regarding lake setbacks, property line setbacks, and impervious surface limits. These decisions affect whether specific home and garage additions can be built closer to water or property lines than zoning laws allow.

• Variance request for 20170 Geneva Ct: 23-ft lake setback and 2% impervious surface variance
• Variance request for 12985 230th St W: 17-ft lake setback variance
• Variance request for 16460 Elmore Trail: rear, side, and wetland setback variances, plus impervious surface and garage size variances

The Rice County Board of Adjustment unanimously approved the reading of the notice, the agenda, and the minutes from the October 2 meeting. It then approved three variance requests—one for a home porch addition in Shieldsville Township, one for a cabin replacement in Morristown Township, and one for a garage addition in Wells Township—each subject to detailed conditions.

• Reading of notice approved (4-0)
• Agenda approval approved (4-0)
• October 2 minutes approved (4-0)
• Variance for 20170 Geneva Ct, Faribault approved (4-0)
• Variance for 12985 230th St W, Waterville approved (4-0)
• Variance for 16460 Elmore Trail, Faribault approved (4-0)

Planning Commission

The Rice County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on a proposed amendment to Chapter 508 of the zoning ordinance that would add “Solar Energy Production” as an interim use in the Urban Reserve Industrial district. The commission will also review interim use permit applications for solar projects ranging from 1 MW to 4.99 MW at sites in Morristown, Cannon City, Warsaw, and Walcott townships, as well as permits for a gravel operation and short‑term rentals. Decisions on these items will be recommended to the County Board at its November 18 meeting.

• Zoning Ordinance Amendment – add “Solar Energy Production” as interim use in URI district (public hearing)
• Interim Use Permit – 4.99 MW solar facility at Poplar Grove Farms, Section 23, Morristown Township (UR zone)
• Interim Use Permit – 1 MW solar facility for Carver Garden LLC, Section 28, Cannon City Township (Agricultural zone)
• Interim Use Permit – 4.95 MW solar facility for Dimension Energy, Section 12, Warsaw Township (UR zone)
• Waiver of Plat – 2.6‑acre building site via Transfer Development Right for Krenz property, Section 3, Warsaw Township (Agricultural zone)

The commission unanimously approved the reading of the notice, the agenda, and the minutes from the October 2, 2025 meeting. It then voted to recommend denial of the Interim Use Permit for a 4.99 MW solar project at Poplar Grove Farms in Morristown Township. The recommendation was approved by Matt Purfeerst, Ken Engen, and Jim Cihak, with Julia Hogan voting no.

• Approved reading of the notice (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 2, 2025 (unanimous)
• Recommended denial of Interim Use Permit for 4.99 MW solar project at Poplar Grove Farms (approved by Matt Purfeerst, Ken Engen, Jim Cihak; opposed by Julia Hogan)

Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board

The Joint Powers Board will review financial reports and receive updates on staffing and the 911 Center building project. The board will also consider new business regarding Brazos Citation Software and an IES Maintenance Agreement.

• Brazos Citation Software
• IES Maintenance Agreement
• 911 Center Building Project update
• Financial report review

The Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board approved its agenda, the October 1 minutes, and the September 30 financial report. It also approved the purchase of Brazos Citation Software through LOGIS and an Independent Emergency Service maintenance agreement for $29,544.52. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved October 1, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 30, 2025 financial report (unanimous)
• Approved Brazos Citation Software purchase through LOGIS (unanimous)
• Approved IES Maintenance Agreement for $29,544.52 (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board will adopt Resolution #25-039, accepting the Emergency Operations Plan presented by the Sheriff’s Office. It will also approve the final payment for Contract #25-50 for aggregate surfacing under Highway and Parks. Additional items include a discussion of appropriations for area food shelves, a review of cash and pooled investments for the period ending September 30, 2025, and a consent agenda covering overtime, bill payments, and personnel appointments.

• Adoption of Emergency Operations Plan (Resolution #25-039) – Sheriff’s Office
• Final payment for Contract #25-50 – Aggregate surfacing – Highway and Parks
• Consideration of appropriations for area food shelves – Outside Agency
• Cash & pooled investments report for period ending September 30, 2025 – Finance
• Consent agenda items: overtime report, bill payments, personnel appointments – Administration

The Rice County Board approved its agenda and the October 28 minutes. It allocated $25,000 to the Community Action Center, $20,000 to St. Vincent DePaul, and $5,000 to the Lonsdale Area Food Shelf. The board adopted the Emergency Operations Plan by signing Resolution #25-039 and approved a $26,976.02 final payment to Kielmeyer Construction. It also approved the consent agenda covering $496,377.04 in bills and appointed two new full‑time staff members.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved October 28 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $25,000 to Community Action Center, $20,000 to St. Vincent DePaul, $5,000 to Lonsdale Area Food Shelf (unanimous)
• Adopted Emergency Operations Plan, signing Resolution #25-039 (unanimous)
• Approved final payment $26,976.02 to Kielmeyer Construction under contract #25-50 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda covering $496,377.04 in bills (unanimous)
• Appointed Joseph Yetzer as Chief Deputy, Sheriff's Office (FT, $75.68/hr, effective 11/1/2025) (unanimous)
• Appointed Joey Williams as Office Support Specialist, Social Services (FT, $21.82/hr, effective 11/3/2025) (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve contracts for highway slope repairs and a grant amendment, discuss 2026 solid waste fees, and set a county burial policy. The meeting includes a public hearing for a temporary liquor license.

• Approval of 2026 Solid Waste Fees
• Award of contract for CSAH 19 slope repair
• Rice County Burial Policy discussion
• Temporary Malt Liquor License for Church of St. Patrick
• C&TC Grant Contract Amendment

The Rice County Board unanimously approved Resolution #25-038, which amends the solid waste service fee assessment and adopts the 2026 fee schedule. It also approved a temporary malt‑liquor license for the Church of St. Patrick, a proclamation for Operation Green Light, and a $26,500 contract to repair the CSAH 19 embankment. The consent agenda, including payment of $1,468,285.63 in bills and several personnel hires, was approved as well.

• Approved Resolution #25-038 amending solid waste fees (unanimous)
• Approved temporary malt‑liquor license for Church of St. Patrick, Shieldsville (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation for Operation Green Light, Nov 4‑11, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved $26,500 contract with James Bros. Construction for CSAH 19 repairs (unanimous)
• Approved Amendment No. 2 for C&TC Contract #230009 (unanimous)
• Approved updated Rice County Burial Policy (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda covering $1,468,285.63 in bills and personnel appointments (unanimous)
• Approved start of the auction process (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Housing and Redevelopment Authority will approve the minutes from the October 7 meeting, set the payment standards for 2026, and review a request from the Faribault Community Land Trust. The meeting also includes a quarterly program report before adjourning.

• Approve minutes of 10-7-25 meeting
• Adopt 2026 payment standards for housing assistance
• Consider Faribault Community Land Trust request
• Quarterly program report presentation

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review updates from the Recorder's Office and a proposed fee schedule for 2026 Environmental Services. The board will also discuss social services mandates and the Rice County Burial Policy.

• Proposed 2026 Environmental Services Fee Schedule
• Rice County Burial Policy
• Mandated-Core-Non-Mandated Services discussion

The Rice County Committee of the Whole met on October 21, 2025. A motion to adjourn, made by Galen Malecha and seconded by Jim Purfeerst, was approved with five votes in favor and none against. No other items were approved; discussions on the 2026 Environmental Services Fee Schedule and the County Burial Policy were deferred to future meetings.

• Adjourned meeting approved (5-0)

Rice County Board of Commissioners Open Forum

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will hold an Open Forum meeting on October 14, 2025, allowing residents to speak on topics relevant to county work. Speakers are limited to three minutes and must provide their name and issue in advance. The meeting will be held in the Commissioner's Room at the Government Services Building.

• Public Open Forum for non-agenda topics
• Three-minute speaking limit for attendees
• Requirement to fill out an open forum card
• Meeting held at Government Services Bldg.
• Meeting ID: 342 117 0614 (Zoom)

The board held its open forum on October 14, 2025. No members of the public spoke, and the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 a.m. No substantive actions, approvals, or denials were recorded.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider awarding construction and flooring contracts for the Dispatch Relocation and LEC Dispatch Remodel projects. The meeting includes reviews of dispatch technology and a closed session regarding the purchase or sale of two property parcels.

• Award Construction Contract for the Dispatch Relocation Project
• Award Floor Covering Bid for Lower Level LEC Dispatch Remodel Project
• Temporary Malt Liquor License for Holy Cross Catholic School at 6100 37th St W, Webster
• Resolution #25-036 to accept a monetary donation from Destination Views, LLC
• Closed session for parcels 11.14.2.75.001 and 18.36.2.50.006

The Rice County Board approved several contracts related to the 911 Dispatch relocation project, including a $1,089,000 construction contract with Met‑Con Companies. Additional approvals covered a $170,459.01 workstation contract with Xybix Systems, a $400,000 radio console repurposing, and a $64,750 floor‑covering bid. The board also approved a temporary malt liquor license for Holy Cross Catholic School and accepted a $1,000 donation from Destination Views/Camp Faribo.

• Approved $1,089,000 construction contract with Met‑Con Companies (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)
• Approved $170,459.01 eight‑position workstation contract with Xybix Systems (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)
• Approved phone system contract with Motorola Saas (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)
• Approved $400,000 repurposing of radio console equipment for Dispatch relocation (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)
• Approved $64,750 floor‑covering bid with Faribault Interiors (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)
• Approved $29,432.19 office furniture quote with Schmidt Goodman (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)
• Approved temporary malt liquor license for Holy Cross Catholic School (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)
• Approved acceptance of $1,000 donation from Destination Views/Camp Faribo (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hear an update on the landfill life-cycle analysis and consider possible fee changes for the landfill. The Attorney’s Office will provide its updates. Public comments will be accepted after each presentation. The meeting will adjourn after these items.

• Landfill life-cycle analysis and fee review (Environmental Services)
• Attorney’s Office updates

The Committee of the Whole motioned to adjourn the meeting. The motion was approved with six votes in favor and none against. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Adjourned meeting approved (6-0)

Housing & Redevelopment Authority

The Rice County Housing and Redevelopment Authority will consider the minutes from its September 2, 2025 meeting. It will vote on Bring it Home Resolution 2025-002, review the Twin Oaks selection preference, and clarify its HCV policy. The meeting follows the County Board of Commissioners session.

• Approve minutes of September 2, 2025 meeting
• Vote on Bring it Home Resolution 2025-002
• Discuss Twin Oaks selection preference
• Clarify HCV (Housing Choice Voucher) policy

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will consider five variance requests affecting shoreline setbacks, height limits, and grading on properties in Wells, Warsaw, Shieldsville, Forest, and Erin Townships. Each applicant seeks specific setbacks or slope allowances for additions, garages, or pathways. The board will hear staff reports, applicant statements, and public comments before recommending approval or denial.

• Variance for Thomas Tuchek: up to 43‑ft lake setback variance at 6690 French Lake Trail
• Variance for Christy Anderson: 4‑ft height variance for a shed at 25896 Elmore Ave
• Variance for Chad Desjardins: multiple 5‑ft setbacks and 5‑ft height variance for a detached garage at 20035 Cedar Lake Trail
• Variance for Misty Purfeerst: 23‑ft lake setback and 3% impervious surface variance at 20170 Geneva Ct
• Variance for Ryan Wolfe: 70‑ft lake setback, 30‑ft bluff setback, and 4‑ft road setback at 6551 143rd St W #48

The Board of Adjustment approved a 10‑ft side‑line setback and a 43‑ft lake setback for Thomas Tuchek’s cabin at 6690 French Lake Trail, with six conditions, by a 2‑1 vote. It also approved Christy Anderson’s request for a 4‑ft height variance for a shed at 25896 Elmore Ave, with six conditions, unanimously. Earlier motions to read the notice, adopt the agenda, and approve the September 4 minutes were also adopted unanimously.

• Approved Thomas Tuchek cabin setback variance (2‑1)
• Approved Christy Anderson shed height variance (unanimous)
• Approved reading of the notice (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 4, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Rice County Planning Commission will consider three new applications. One is an Interim Use Permit for a 4.99 MW solar energy facility on Section 23 in Morristown Township, zoned Urban Reserve. Another is a Waiver of Plat for a 1‑acre addition to a 2.5‑acre Transfer Development Right parcel at 10586 100th St E, Northfield, zoned Agricultural. The third is an Interim Use Permit for a short‑term rental in an existing dwelling at 5036 Cannon Lake Trail, Faribault, zoned General Development Shoreland.

• Interim Use Permit – 4.99 MW solar facility, Section 23, Morristown Township, UR zone
• Waiver of Plat – 1‑acre addition to 2.5‑acre TDR parcel, 10586 100th St E, Northfield, A zone
• Interim Use Permit – short‑term rental in existing dwelling, 5036 Cannon Lake Trail, Faribault, GDS zone

The commission approved a Waiver of Plat for Lynn Fossum, allowing a 1‑acre addition to create a 3.5‑acre parcel with five conditions. It also approved an Interim Use Permit for Tyler Riewe’s short‑term rental with five conditions. The solar‑farm interim use permit was tabled until the November 6 meeting.

• Approved Waiver of Plat for Lynn Fossum (3.5‑acre parcel) – vote: YES: Garrett Johnson, Ken Engen, Jim Cihak; NAYS: none
• Approved Interim Use Permit for Tyler Riewe short‑term rental – vote: YES: Garrett Johnson, Ken Engen, Jim Cihak; NAYS: none
• Tabled Interim Use Permit for New Leaf Energy solar project – vote: YES: Garrett Johnson, Ken Engen, Jim Cihak; NAYS: none

Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board

The Joint Powers Board will review the August 31, 2025 financial report and receive staffing updates. The board will also discuss ESInet circuit replacements for 911 circuits.

• Review of August 31, 2025 financial report
• ESInet Circuit Replacements (911 Circuits)
• Informational and staffing update

The Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board approved its agenda, the September 15 minutes, and the August 31 financial report. It also approved funding for ESInet circuit replacements and endorsed PSC Allance's recommendations for technology upgrades in the new 911 building. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (5 AYES, 0 NAYS)
• Approved September 15, 2025 minutes (5 AYES, 0 NAYS)
• Approved August 31, 2025 financial report (5 AYES, 0 NAYS)
• Approved ESInet circuit replacements (5 AYES, 0 NAYS)
• Approved Rice County Board moving forward with PSC Allance technology upgrade recommendations (5 AYES, 0 NAYS)
• Approved adjournment (5 AYES, 0 NAYS)

Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board

The Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board will meet on September 29, 2025. After roll call and agenda approval, the board will discuss the 911 Building Project. No decisions are noted in the agenda.

• Discussion of the 911 Building Project

The board could not achieve a quorum because both Rice County and Steele County commissioners were absent. As a result, no business was conducted or decisions made.

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will set the preliminary tax levy for 2026, award contracts for the Upper Level LEC Remodel, and approve the purchase of an X-Ray Inspection System. The meeting also includes zoning ordinance amendments and the approval of a SHIP Grant Project Agreement.

• Set preliminary tax levy for 2026 (Resolution #25-034)
• Award contractor bids for Upper Level LEC Remodel
• Purchase X-Ray Inspection System
• Adobe license renewal
• Zoning Ordinance Amendment/DeGrood(Watts)

The Rice County Board of Commissioners approved the meeting agenda and minutes, adopted a zoning amendment to allow solar energy production as an interim use, and approved several contracts and purchases for county facilities and infrastructure. They also set the preliminary tax levy for 2026 and granted the CFO annual authority for banking transactions. All actions were approved by vote.

• Approved agenda (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters, NAYS: none)
• Approved Intent to Enact Zoning Ordinance Amendment adding “Solar Energy Production” as interim use (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Jim Purfeerst, Charlie Peters; NAYS: Galen Malecha, Gerry Hoisington)
• Approved awarding Healy Construction Co. contract $94,850 for upper‑level Law Enforcement Center remodel (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters, NAYS: none)
• Approved purchase of Hi‑Scan 5030c Single View X‑Ray Inspection System $29,230 from Smiths Detection (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters, NAYS: none)
• Approved contract to Erickson Engineering $64,826 for bridge design on Karow Trail in Northfield Township (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters, NAYS: none)
• Approved rejection of all bids for project SAP 066‑611‑018, CSAH 11 slope repair (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters, NAYS: none)
• Approved Preliminary Tax Levy for 2026 (Resolution #25‑034) (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters, NAYS: none)
• Approved granting annual authority to the CFO for banking transactions (Resolution #25‑035) (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters, NAYS: none)

Special Meeting

County Commissioners and the Planning Commission will meet to continue discussion of zoning ordinance amendments, including subdivision regulations, sign regulations, and other miscellaneous changes. After the discussion, the floor will be opened for brief public comments on agenda items.

• Discussion of subdivision regulation amendments
• Discussion of sign regulation amendments
• Discussion of miscellaneous zoning ordinance changes
• Public comment period (up to 3 minutes per speaker)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole Work Session will receive updates from the Assessor's Office, Adult Services, Public Health, and Highway departments, as well as the Circle Lake annual report. It will also hold a preliminary discussion on a future levy. After each presentation, the floor will be open for brief public comments.

• Circle Lake Annual Report to County Board
• Assessor's Office Updates
• Adult Services Updates
• Rice County Safe Roads Coalition – TZD Grant Update
• Preliminary Levy Discussion

The Committee of the Whole met on September 16, 2025 and heard updates from several county departments. The only formal action taken was a motion to adjourn, which was approved unanimously. No other items were voted on or decided.

• Adjourned meeting approved (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: none)

Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board

The joint powers board will review its July 31, 2025 financial report and discuss the upcoming 2026 budget. It will receive updates on operations and staffing, and consider replacing ESInet 911 circuits. No decisions are noted for the out-of-state training item.

• Review of Financial Report July 31, 2025
• Discussion of the 2026 Budget
• Consideration of ESInet Circuit Replacements (911 circuits)
• Operations Committee Update
• Informational Staffing Update

The board approved the agenda addition for the 911 Building Update and approved the August 6, 2025 minutes. Financials for July 31, 2025 were approved, as was out‑of‑state travel for telecommunicator training in Clear Lake, IA. The 2026 final budget was also approved unanimously.

• Approved agenda addition for 911 Building Update (unanimous)
• Approved August 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 31, 2025 financials (unanimous)
• Approved out‑of‑state travel for telecommunicator training in Clear Lake, IA (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 final budget (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will review requests for building repairs and park accessibility. The body is also considering several service contracts and grant funding for crime victims.

• Bids for Conservation Building structure repairs and roof replacement
• Use of Park Dedication Funds for Shager Park ADA accessibility project
• 2026 Grant Funding for Crime Victim Services
• State FY 26 Rice County Treatment Court Interagency Agreement
• Foster Transportation School Agreements annual renewals

The Rice County Board of Commissioners approved a $70,000 grant for Crime Victim Services. It also approved advertising for bids on the Conservation Building, service agreements for foster transportation and Parent Coach Connection, and an interagency agreement for FY 2026 funding. Additional approvals included $16,875 for ADA improvements at Shager Park beach and the use of the consent agenda.

• Approved advertising for bids on Conservation Building phases (structure repairs, cement work, roof replacement)
• Approved annual renewal of Foster Transportation Purchase of Service agreements with local school districts
• Approved Purchase of Service Agreement with Parent Coach Connection
• Approved proclamation of September as Recovery Month in Rice County
• Approved interagency agreement with Minnesota for FY 2026 funding period
• Approved acceptance of $70,000 grant for Crime Victim Services
• Approved use of up to $16,875 park dedication fees for ADA access improvements at Shager Park beach
• Approved consent agenda as presented

Rice County Board of Commissioners Open Forum

This meeting is an open forum for members of the public to speak on topics relevant to the county's work. There are no specific legislative items or decisions scheduled for this meeting.

The Rice County Board of Commissioners met at 8:00 a.m. on September 9, 2025 for an open forum. Residents voiced concerns about the post‑election review, Medicare and social‑service changes, SNAP and Medicaid increases, and federal cuts affecting Faribault schools. The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 a.m. with no actions approved, denied, or tabled.

Board of Adjustment

The Rice County Board of Adjustment will hear six requests for variances regarding property setbacks, including requests to build closer to French Lake and Cannon Lake, and to place structures closer to private and public roads.

• Variance for French Lake shed (52-ft from lake)
• Variance for Cannon Lake home (15-ft from lake)
• Variance for French Lake cabin roof additions
• Variance for 166th St E shed (32-ft from ROW)
• Variance for Cates Ave shed (57-ft from ROW)

The Rice County Board of Adjustment unanimously approved two variances: a replacement shed at 5989 177th St W #18 and an accessory dwelling unit at 25896 Elmore Ave. Both motions received five yes votes and no nay votes. The board also approved tabling a third variance request for 6690 French Lake Trail to the October 2, 2025 meeting.

• Approved variance for replacement 80‑sqft shed at 5989 177th St W #18 (5‑0)
• Approved variance for accessory dwelling unit at 25896 Elmore Ave (5‑0)
• Approved to table variance request for 6690 French Lake Trail to Oct 2 meeting (5‑0)

Planning Commission

The Rice County Planning Commission will consider a zoning text amendment to allow solar energy production in the Urban Reserve Industrial district. The body will also review several interim use permits and plat applications in Webster and Wheeling Townships.

• Zoning text amendment to add Solar Energy Production as an Interim Use in the URI district
• Interim Use Permit for a gunsmithing business at 7375 Chester Ave, Northfield
• Waiver of Plat for a 5-acre livestock parcel in Section 22, Webster Township
• Final plat for a 5-building lot subdivision in Section 3, Webster Township
• Interim Use Permit for Xcel Energy equipment and material yard at 16036 Goodhue Ave, Nerstrand

The commission approved the meeting notice, agenda, and minutes from the August 7, 2025 meeting. It then approved a zoning ordinance amendment to add "Solar Energy Production" as an interim use in the Urban Reserve Industrial (URI) district, with revised setback standards. The amendment passed with four votes in favor, no votes against, and one abstention.

• Approved reading of the notice (unanimous yes)
• Approved the agenda (unanimous yes)
• Approved the minutes of August 7, 2025 (unanimous yes)
• Approved Zoning Ordinance Amendment adding solar energy production as an interim use in the URI district (4-0, 1 abstain)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hear a presentation on the Minnesota Rehabilitation and Reinvestment Act, review allocations for outside agencies for 2026, and discuss establishing county park roads. Public comments will be accepted after each presentation.

• Minnesota Rehabilitation and Reinvestment Act (MRRA) presentation
• Outside Agency Allocations for 2026
• Establishment of county park roads

The Rice County Committee of the Whole met on September 2, 2025. After presentations on community corrections, outside agency allocations, and county park roads, the board chair Charlie Peters presided. The only formal action was a motion to adjourn, which passed with four votes in favor and none against. No other items were approved, denied, or tabled.

• Adjourned meeting approved (4-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will consider two resolutions to transfer ownership of Lot 1 and Lot 2 of the Henry M. Rice property as part of the Rice Square redevelopment. Lot 1 would be transferred to the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA). Lot 2 would be transferred to the City of Faribault.

• Resolution 25-032 – transfer of Lot 1 of Henry M. Rice to the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA).
• Resolution 25-033 – transfer of Lot 2 of Henry M. Rice to the City of Faribault.

The commissioners approved resolution 23-032 to transfer Lot 1 of Henry M. Rice to the Housing & Redevelopment Authority. They also approved resolution 25-033 to transfer Lot 2 to the City of Faribault. Both motions passed unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved transfer of Lot 1 to Housing & Redevelopment Authority (4-0)
• Approved transfer of Lot 2 to City of Faribault (4-0)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (4-0)

Housing & Redevelopment Authority

The Rice County Housing & Redevelopment Authority will approve the minutes from its July 22, 2025 meeting. It will hold a public hearing to discuss the proposed sale of LOT 1, BLOCK 1, Henry M. Rice Square. The board will also discuss a memorandum of understanding with Three Rivers for Twin Oaks, select a vendor for Twin Oaks Phase II, and review the 2026 HRA budget.

• Approve minutes of July 22, 2025 meeting
• Public hearing on proposed sale of LOT 1, BLOCK 1, Henry M. Rice Square
• Discuss Twin Oaks memorandum of understanding with Three Rivers
• Select vendor for Twin Oaks Phase II RFP
• Review 2026 HRA budget

The board approved the minutes from the July 22, 2025 meeting and moved the proposed sale of Lot 1, Block 1, Henry M. Rice Square to a public hearing. It then adopted Resolution 25‑001, transferring the lot to the City of Faribault for development, and approved both the Twin Oaks MOU with Three Rivers and the Phase II construction contract to Kleese Construction. The meeting was adjourned.

• Approved July 22, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved public hearing on sale of Lot 1, Henry M. Rice Square (4-0)
• Approved transfer of Lot 1 to City of Faribault via Resolution 25‑001 (4-0)
• Approved Twin Oaks MOU with Three Rivers (4-0)
• Approved Twin Oaks Phase II RFP selection to Kleese Construction (4-0)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (4-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will discuss the 2026 budget for the Rice/Steele 911 Center and a coordinator agreement for the Mobile Opioid Support Team. The board will also hold a closed session to consider offers for the purchase or sale of four specific property parcels.

• Rice/Steele 911 Center 2026 Budget Update
• Closed session regarding parcels 1831126266, 1831126265, 1831126267, and 1831126264
• Liquor permit renewal for Winjum's Shady Acres Resort
• Temporary 3.2 Malt Liquor License for Church of St Patrick at 7525 Dodd Rd
• Preliminary Plat for Willingers in Webster Township Section 23

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss funding requests from several outside agencies and a presentation on Paid Family Medical Leave. The board will also consider a closed session to discuss the purchase or sale of real property for parcel 1836250006.

• Funding requests from Prairie's Edge Humane Society, Southern Minnesota Tourism Association, FiftyNorth, Rice County Soil & Water Conservation District, SEMCAC, and Southeastern MN EMS
• Presentation on Paid Family Medical Leave by Dan Ochs from Integrity
• Discussion on Case Management Systems conversion
• Closed session regarding the purchase or sale of parcel 1836250006
• Highway updates

The committee voted to enter a closed session under MN Statute 13D.05 to develop or consider offers for parcel 1836250006. The same members later voted to exit the closed session. The meeting was then adjourned, all votes unanimous.

• Approved motion to go into Closed Session to consider offers for parcel 1836250006 (Ayes: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; Nays: none)
• Approved motion to exit Closed Session (Ayes: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; Nays: none)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (Ayes: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; Nays: none)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners is holding a special joint meeting with the Faribault School Board and the Faribault Area Chamber of Commerce at Buckham West, 19 West Division Street, Faribault, on August 15, 2025, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. The agenda states that no official business will be conducted during this event. The meeting is intended for collaboration and information sharing.

• Joint Board meeting with Faribault School Board and Faribault Area Chamber of Commerce at Buckham West, 19 West Division Street, Aug 15, 2025, 11 am–1 pm (no official business).

Special Meeting

The Rice County Board of Commissioners and Planning Commission will meet in a joint work session. They will continue discussion of proposed amendments to the county zoning ordinance, focusing on shoreland and subdivision regulations. After the discussion, the public will have a brief period for comments.

• Continued discussion of shoreland regulations amendment to the zoning ordinance
• Continued discussion of subdivision regulations amendment to the zoning ordinance
• Public comment period (up to 3 minutes per speaker)

Rice County Board of Commissioners Open Forum

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will hold an open forum on August 12, 2025 at 8:00 AM. The meeting provides a chance for members of the public to speak on topics not on the agenda, within the county’s authority. No specific resolutions, contracts, or policy items are scheduled for decision at this meeting.

The Board called the meeting to order at 8:00 AM. No residents spoke during the Open Forum, and the forum was closed at 8:30 AM. No other actions or decisions were taken.

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve contracts for fuel services and the purchase of two 2025 Chrysler Pacifica vans. The agenda includes the declaration of two county fleet vehicles as surplus and a consent agenda covering bills and personnel.

• Approval to Purchase Two 2025 Chrysler Pacifica Select AWD Vans
• Award of Contract - County Fuel Island
• Declare Social Services Fleet Vehicles #310 and #311 as County Surplus
• Consent Agenda: Extra Time/Over Time Report, Payment of Bills, Personnel Appointments
• 2026/27 Radiological Emergency Preparedness Grant Contact Agreement

The board approved the agenda and minutes, declared two social‑services vans as surplus, and approved the purchase of two new vans for $92,386. It also awarded the $76,103 contract to rebuild the County Fuel Island and approved a radiological emergency preparedness grant contract. Additional approvals included out‑of‑state travel for a jail records specialist, the consent agenda, payment of $1,106,172.74 in bills, and several personnel appointments.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved July 22 minutes (5-0)
• Declared Vehicle #310 surplus (5-0)
• Declared Vehicle #311 surplus (5-0)
• Approved purchase of two 2025 Chrysler Pacifica vans for $92,386.00 (5-0)
• Awarded Fuel Island reconstruction contract to Pump N Meter for $76,103.05 (5-0)
• Approved Radiological Emergency Preparedness Grant Contract (5-0)
• Approved travel for Delainey Allen to TurnKey Users' Conference (5-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Rice County Board of Adjustment will consider five variance applications at its August 7 meeting. Applicants seek relief from setback, lot‑coverage, building‑size, and cluster‑development requirements for properties in Shieldsville, Morristown, Wells, Webster, and Northfield townships. The board will hear staff reports, applicant statements, and public comments before recommending approval, denial, or continuation of each item.

• Roger Smisek – 20243 Cedar Lake Path, Morristown: 5‑ft road ROW setback and 10‑ft bluff setback variances for a garage.
• Christopher Mulert – 24085 Fosston Ave, Warsaw: 37‑ft road ROW setback variance for a replacement home.
• Charles Driessen (on behalf of John and Susan Hortop) – 3749 Chappuis Trail, Faribault: 10% increase in impervious surface and 49‑ft lake setback variances for a home addition.
• James Daugs – 2674 80th St W, Northfield: 1120‑sqft building size variance and 5‑ft peak height variance for a larger structure.
• Andrea Rand (on behalf of Willingers Development Corp) – 6797 Canby Trail, Northfield: 23% CPI cluster‑development variance for a six‑lot cluster.

The Rice County Board of Adjustment unanimously approved the reading of the notice, the agenda, and the minutes from July 10, 2025. It also approved a garage variance for Roger Smisek with six conditions, a home‑placement variance for Christopher Mulert with four conditions, and a home‑addition variance for Charles Driessen with six conditions. All votes were 4‑0 with no dissent.

• Approved reading of the notice (4-0)
• Approved the agenda (4-0)
• Approved minutes of July 10, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved variance for Roger Smisek garage (4-0)
• Approved variance for Christopher Mulert replacement home (4-0)
• Approved variance for Charles Driessen home addition (4-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a request for six single-family dwelling lots in Webster Township. The body will also review a solar energy permit renewal and a proposed zoning text amendment regarding solar production in industrial districts.

• Preliminary plat for 6 single-family dwelling lots at 6797 Canby Trail, Northfield
• Interim Use Permit renewal for a 1MW solar facility at 23021 Albers Ave, Faribault
• Proposed zoning text amendment to add Solar Energy Production as an Interim Use in the URI district

The commission voted to recommend approval of the preliminary plat for Willingers Development Corp and Willing Partners Inc at 6797 Canby Trail, using Transfer Development Rights to create six single‑family lots. The approval was unanimous, with all four present commissioners voting yes. The approval includes conditions such as submitting a final plat within six months, septic system compliance, wetland protection, a conservation easement, proof of title, engineered road and stormwater plans, homeowner covenants, and maintenance responsibilities.

• Approved reading of the notice (motion by Jim Cihak, seconded by Julia Hogan) – unanimous yes
• Approved agenda with New Business Item 3 tabled to Sept 4 meeting – unanimous yes
• Approved minutes of July 10, 2025 – unanimous yes
• Approved recommendation for Preliminary Plat for Willingers Development at 6797 Canby Trail – unanimous yes

Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board

The Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board will meet to review financial reports, discuss staffing updates, and begin a review of the 2026 budget. The Operations Committee has no meeting scheduled.

• Review of Financial Report June 30, 2025
• Financial Audit
• 2026 Budget Review
• Informational and Staffing Update
• GIS Support

The Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board approved several items, including the June 30 financials, a 2024 audit, a cash‑flow analysis, and GIS services through LOGIS. The board also changed the date of the September meeting to September 15, 2025. All motions were adopted unanimously.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved July 2 minutes (6-0)
• Approved June 30, 2025 financials (6-0)
• Approved Baker Tilley 2024 financial audit (6-0)
• Approved Option B cash‑flow analysis for interest accrual (6-0)
• Approved GIS Services through LOGIS (6-0)
• Changed September Joint Powers Board meeting to Sept 15, 2025 (no vote recorded)
• Approved adjournment (6-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hear funding requests from several outside agencies, including five libraries, the Rice County Historical Society, the Hope Center, and the Rice County Agricultural Society. The Housing Department will give an update, and the Highway Commissioner will present a draft transportation plan update. Finance staff will report cash, pooled investments, and the quarterly financial report for the period ending June 30, 2025.

• Funding request for Buckham Memorial Library
• Funding request for Northfield Public Library
• Funding request for Rice County Historical Society
• Funding request for Hope Center
• Funding request for Rice County Agricultural Society

The Committee of the Whole motioned to adjourn the meeting. The motion was approved with five votes in favor and none against. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Adjourned meeting approved (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will discuss several service agreements, including a GreenCorps host site agreement and a MnDOT detour agreement. They will review a contract amendment for CR 20 design with Widseth Engineering and consider a family services grant extension. A public hearing will be held to name an unnamed lake, followed by adoption of the naming resolution. The meeting will close with a confidential session to evaluate offers for parcel 1836250006.

• Resolution #25-029 – Accept GreenCorps Host Site Agreement for the 2025‑2026 program year
• Resolution #25-028 – MnDOT Detour Agreement No. 1059686
• Contract amendment – CR 20 design with Widseth Engineering
• 9 am public hearing and adoption of Resolution #25-027 to name an unnamed lake
• Closed‑session to discuss offers for parcel 1836250006

The Rice County Board approved its agenda and a series of resolutions covering environmental services, social‑service grants, a highway contract amendment, and a tax‑exempt gambling permit. It adopted Resolution #25‑027 naming the previously unnamed lake in Lonsdale “Hidden Willow Pond.” The board also authorized a disaster‑grant application, approved a closed‑session session on a property parcel, and approved several plat waivers and permits.

• Approved agenda with minor change (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution #25‑029 accepting GreenCorps Host Site Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Blair Ransom property in Warsaw Township (unanimous)
• Approved $93,000 amendment to Widseth engineering contract for project SAP 66‑620‑015 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution #25‑027 naming unnamed lake in Lonsdale “Hidden Willow Pond” (unanimous)
• Approved Tax‑Exempt Gambling Permit for Ladies of Ducks Unlimited Girls with Guns Chapter 329 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution #25‑030 authorizing application for Federal EDA FY2025 Disaster Supplemental Grant (unanimous)
• Approved motion to enter and exit closed session on parcel 1836250006 (unanimous)

Housing & Redevelopment Authority

The Rice County Housing and Redevelopment Authority will review updates to its Emergency Housing Voucher policy. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from July 1, 2025, updates to the Mainstream and Repayment Agreement policies, and program reports such as the quarterly report and SEMAP score. No decisions on contracts or dollar amounts are listed.

• Approve minutes from 7‑1‑25
• Emergency Housing Voucher Policy Update
• Mainstream Policy Update
• Repayment Agreement Policy update
• Quarterly program report and SEMAP score

The Rice County Housing & Redevelopment Authority approved the July 1, 2025 meeting minutes and adopted updates to the Emergency Housing Voucher Policy, the Mainstream Policy, and the Repayment Agreement Policy. All motions passed unanimously with five votes in favor and none against. The meeting was adjourned at 9:49 a.m.

• Approved July 1, 2025 minutes (5‑0)
• Approved Emergency Housing Voucher Policy Update (5‑0)
• Approved Mainstream Policy Update (5‑0)
• Approved Repayment Agreement Policy (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review a 2024 property tax abatement report, discuss Northfield/Faribault Community Action Center programs, receive highway updates, and hold a closed session under MN Statute 13D.05 to develop or consider offers for the purchase or sale of parcel 1836250006.

• Property Tax & Elections: 2024 abatement report
• Social Services: Family Recovery Support and Youth Advocacy programs at Northfield/Faribault Community Action Centers
• Highway: Updates from the Highway Commissioner
• Closed session: develop or consider offers for purchase or sale of parcel 1836250006

The board voted to enter a closed session under Minnesota Statute 13D.05 Subd. 3(c)(3) to discuss offers for parcel 1836250006. The motion passed unanimously with all six members voting yes. After the discussion, the board voted to exit the closed session, also unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved motion to enter closed session for parcel 1836250006 (6-0)
• Approved motion to exit closed session (6-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (6-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Rice County Board of Adjustment will consider three variance applications submitted by landowners in Forest Township, Richland Township, and Wells Township. Each application seeks relief from lake, road, building‑to‑building, and outbuilding setbacks or limits. The Board will hear staff reports, applicant presentations, and public comments before recommending approval, denial, or continuation of each item.

• Polzin (6551 143rd St W #41, Lonsdale) requests a 92‑ft lake‑setback variance for a deck, a 36‑ft lake‑setback variance for a shed, a 6‑ft road‑setback variance, a 2‑ft building‑to‑building variance, and an outbuilding‑limit variance.
• Streitz (12459 210th St E, Kenyon) requests a 4‑ft building‑to‑building setback variance.
• Benson (5989 177th St W #23, Faribault) requests an 82.5‑ft lake‑setback variance for a cabin addition, a 17‑ft road‑setback variance for a shed, a 5‑ft building‑to‑building variance, and an outbuilding‑limit variance.

The Rice County Board of Adjustment unanimously approved the variance requests for the Lake Mazaska property at 6551 143rd St W #41, Lonsdale, and for the property at 12459 210th St E, Kenyon. Both approvals included specific conditions such as compliance inspections and shoreline buffer requirements. Earlier agenda items – notice, agenda, and May 29 minutes – were also approved unanimously.

• Approved reading of notice (4-0)
• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved minutes of May 29, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved Polzin variance for 6551 143rd St W #41, Lonsdale (4-0)
• Approved Streitz variance for 12459 210th St E, Kenyon (4-0)

Planning Commission

The commission will review four land‑use applications. Items include a conditional use permit for a 199‑ft communication tower in Warsaw Township, a waiver of plat to create a 2.5‑acre building site in Forest Township, a preliminary and final plat to combine two lots into a single‑family dwelling in Shieldsville Township, and a waiver of plat to create two 2.58‑acre parcels in Wells Township. After staff reports and applicant presentations, the commission will recommend approval, denial, or continuation for each item.

• Conditional Use Permit – 199‑ft Communication Tower – SE1/4 of SE1/4, Section 12, Warsaw Township, PID# 14.12.4.75.002 – Zoned UR (Urban Reserve)
• Waiver of Plat – 2.5‑acre building site via Transfer Development Right – SW1/4 of SE1/4, Section 20, Forest Township, PID# 06.20.4.50.001 – Zoned A (Agricultural)
• Preliminary and Final Plat – combine Lots 5 & 6, Block 3, Grays Landing subdivision into one single‑family lot – Section 36, Shieldsville Township, PID#s 09.36.1.51.012 & 09.36.1.51.011 – Zoned GDS (General Development Shoreland)
• Waiver of Plat – create two 2.58‑acre parcels via TDRs – NW1/4 of NW1/4, Section 32, Wells Township, PID# 10.32.2.25.001 – Zoned A (Agricultural)

The Rice County Planning Commission unanimously approved the reading of the notice, the agenda, and the May 29 minutes. It also approved a conditional use permit for a 199‑ft communication tower and three Transfer Development Rights waivers—one for Daniel Pumper, one for George Wagner, and a lot consolidation for Vern Swedin. The meeting was adjourned with a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved reading of notice (4-0)
• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved minutes of May 29, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for 199‑ft communication tower (4-0)
• Approved Waiver of Plat for Daniel Pumper (2.5‑acre TDR) (4-0)
• Approved Preliminary & Final Plat for Vern Swedin (lot consolidation) (4-0)
• Approved Waiver of Plat for George Wagner (two 2.58‑acre TDR parcels) (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Rice County Board of Commissioners Open Forum

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will hold an open forum at 8:00 AM on July 8, 2025. No specific resolutions or contracts will be considered; the meeting is for members of the public to speak on any county‑related topics within the board’s authority. Comments are limited to three minutes and must be submitted on an open‑forum card.

The Board’s open forum ran from 8:00 to 8:30 a.m. No members of the public spoke. Commissioner Sara Folsted gave an update from her recent NACo meeting, noting that Medicare was discussed and that more information will be shared later. No motions, votes, or other decisions were taken.

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a draft drainage ditch policy and a SELCO contract renewal. The board will also hold a closed session to consider offers for the purchase or sale of several specific property parcels.

• Closed session regarding property parcels 1831126262, 1831126272, 1831126271, 1831126263, 1831126264, 1831126267, 1831126266, 1831126265, 1819176005, and 1836250006
• SELCO contract renewal
• Draft Drainage Ditch Policy overview
• Out-of-state travel requests for 2025 National Sexual Assault Conference and 2025 Police Canine Training Seminar

The board unanimously approved its agenda and the minutes from the June 24 meeting. It also approved several items including the SELCO contract renewal, travel requests for a police canine training in Tucson and a national sexual assault conference, and actions related to the Drainage Authority. A closed‑session was opened to discuss offers on several county parcels, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved June 24 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved SELCO contract renewal (unanimous)
• Approved travel request for K9 handlers training in Tucson, AZ (unanimous)
• Approved travel request for National Sexual Assault Conference (unanimous)
• Approved entry into Drainage Authority (unanimous)
• Approved closed session to discuss offers on multiple parcels (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment (unanimous)

Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board

The Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board will review the May 31, 2025 financial report and receive updates on operations, staffing, CAD and phone data, and the 911 Center building project. New business includes discussion of a Certified Public Safety Executive position and a presentation of the 2026 preliminary budget.

• Review of Financial Report May 31, 2025
• Operations Committee Update
• CAD & Phone Data briefing
• 911 Center Building Project Update
• 2026 Preliminary Budget Presentation

The board approved the meeting agenda and the June 4, 2025 minutes. It also approved the May 31, 2025 financial report and a request for out-of-state travel expenses for a public‑safety training program. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (AYES: Galen Malecha, Gerry Hoisington, Peter van Sluis, James Brady, Jim Abbe, Dave Burbank; NAYS: none)
• Approved June 4, 2025 minutes (AYES: Galen Malecha, Gerry Hoisington, Peter van Sluis, James Brady, Jim Abbe, Dave Burbank; NAYS: none)
• Approved May 31, 2025 financials (AYES: Galen Malecha, Gerry Hoisington, Peter van Sluis, James Brady, Jim Abbe, Dave Burbank; NAYS: none)
• Approved out-of-state training & travel expenses for Brian Becker (AYES: Galen Malecha, Gerry Hoisington, Peter van Sluis, James Brady, Jim Abbe, Dave Burbank; NAYS: none)
• Adjourned meeting (AYES: Galen Malecha, Gerry Hoisington, Peter van Sluis, James Brady, Jim Abbe, Dave Burbank; NAYS: none)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to receive updates on property taxes and information technology. The session also includes a progress report on the Rice Steele 911 Relocation Project.

• Property tax update from Denise Anderson
• IT updates from Allan Klug
• Rice Steele 911 Relocation Project update

The committee approved a motion to adjourn the meeting. The motion was moved by Galen Malecha, seconded by Steve Underdahl, and passed with ayes from Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, and Charlie Peters; no members voted no.

• Adjourned meeting approved (5-0)

Housing & Redevelopment Authority

The Rice County Housing and Redevelopment Authority regular meeting will consider approval of the minutes from April 22, 2025. It will accept the Twin Oaks project and authorize the final payment to Heselton, and it will discuss the request for proposals for Phase 2 of Twin Oaks.

• Approve minutes of 4-22-25 meeting
• Accept Twin Oaks project and authorize final payment to Heselton
• Review Twin Oaks Phase 2 Request for Proposals (RFP)

The Rice County Housing & Redevelopment Authority approved the minutes from the April 22, 2025 meeting. It also approved a final payment of $745,991.00 to Heselton for the Twin Oaks project and approved the Twin Oaks Phase 2 request‑for‑proposals. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved April 22, 2025 minutes (5‑0)
• Approved final Twin Oaks payment of $745,991.00 to Heselton (5‑0)
• Approved Twin Oaks Phase 2 RFPs (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:30 a.m. (5‑0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review a resolution for Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) assessments and multiple liquor license renewals. The meeting includes discussions on a Homeland Security Joint Powers Agreement and funding for highway repairs pending FEMA appeals.

• Resolution #25-025 for Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Assessments
• Liquor license renewals for Roberds Lake Resort, Webster Sports & Rec, and others
• Resolution #25-026 for an interfund loan to fund highway repairs pending FEMA appeals
• Region One-Southeast Minnesota Homeland Security Emergency Management (HSEM) Joint Powers Agreement
• Contract award for County Ditch repairs and mitigation efforts

The commissioners approved a $105,550 contract for flood‑damage repair and mitigation on county ditches. They also adopted an interfund loan resolution to fund repairs pending FEMA disaster assistance appeals. Additional actions included a joint powers agreement with a regional homeland security agency and a resolution for Property Assessed Clean Energy assessments.

• Approved $105,550 flood‑damage repair contract (unanimous)
• Approved interfund loan (Resolution #25-026) for FEMA appeal repairs (unanimous)
• Approved joint powers agreement with Region One‑Southeast Minnesota Homeland Security Emergency Management (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution #25-025 for PACE assessments for energy improvements (unanimous)
• Approved funding to upgrade Eagleview orthophoto mosaic to 3‑inch resolution (unanimous)
• Approved 2025‑2026 MOU with Three Rivers Community Action for homeless prevention aid (unanimous)
• Approved multiple liquor license renewals for various establishments (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda and payment of bills totaling $1,016,003.95 (unanimous)

Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board

The board will meet to conduct a DD review and a cost review. The meeting is scheduled for June 20, 2025, at the Rice County Government Services Building.

• DD Review / Cost Review

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will meet on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at 6:30 PM. The agenda includes a presentation from the Assessor’s Office by Joshua Schoen. The presentation will cover the Rice County Board of Appeal and Equalization. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Call to Order
• Assessor’s Office presentation by Joshua Schoen
• Discussion of Rice County Board of Appeal and Equalization
• Adjournment

The board voted 5‑1 to keep the 2025 valuation for James and Linda Sawyer as presented by the assessor. No action was taken on Joyce Sammon's concerns about ditch and buffer‑strip taxation. A unanimous 6‑0 vote approved the assessor’s listed recommendations, valuation revisions for cities and townships, and accepted the PRISM 1 report totaling $10,998,017,900. The meeting was adjourned by a 6‑0 vote.

• Leave Sawyer valuation as presented (5-1)
• No action on Sammon ditch/buffer‑strip tax issue
• Approve assessor recommendations, valuation revisions, and PRISM 1 report ($10,998,017,900) (6-0)
• Adjourn meeting (6-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will begin with a call to order and pledge of allegiance, then hold a tour of the county parks led by Dennis Luebbe for the County Commissioners. No formal decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Tour of Rice County parks for County Commissioners

Rice County Board of Commissioners Open Forum

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will hold an Open Forum at 8:00 a.m. on June 10 2025. Members of the public may speak on topics not on the agenda, with each speaker limited to three minutes. Comments must be submitted on an open‑forum card and must relate to county work within its authority. The meeting will be available in person and via Zoom.

• Open Forum – public comments (3‑minute limit per speaker)

The Rice County Board of Commissioners held its scheduled open forum at 8:00 a.m. on June 10, 2025. No members of the public came forward to speak. The open forum session was closed at 8:30 a.m. No substantive decisions were made.

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board will review the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for 2024 and several environmental service waivers and permits. It will decide on a resolution backing the FY 2025 Safe Streets and Roads safety plan grant and approve the Treatment Court Defense Counsel contract. The meeting also includes multiple liquor, tobacco, and wine license renewals and a consent agenda covering routine items.

• Resolution #25-024: Support application for FY 2025 Safe Streets and Roads safety plan grant
• Approval of the Treatment Court Defense Counsel contract
• Liquor license renewal for Ettlin's Ranchero Supper Club, 4452 40th St W, Webster (July 1 2025 – June 30 2026)
• Waiver of Plat/Fisher – Section 27, Webster Township
• Replacement of Landfill Dozer

The board approved the 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, a series of plat waivers and interim‑use permits, and purchased a John Deere 950P dozer for $862,262.93. It also renewed multiple liquor, wine, tobacco and gambling licenses, approved a legal‑defense contract for the Treatment Court, and adopted a resolution supporting the FY 2025 Safe Streets and Roads grant. The consent agenda covering overtime, $699,975.86 in bill payments and several personnel appointments was approved, and the meeting entered and exited a closed session on security information.

• Approved Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for 2024 (5-0)
• Approved Waiver of Plat for Anthony Fisher, Section 27 Webster Township (5-0)
• Approved purchase of John Deere 950P Dozer for $862,262.93 (5-0)
• Approved liquor license renewal for Ettlin's Ranchero Supper Club (5-0)
• Approved contract with Joseph Heinrichs for legal defense of Treatment Court (5-0)
• Approved Resolution #25-024 supporting FY 2025 Safe Streets and Roads grant (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $699,975.86 in bill payments and personnel appointments (5-0)
• Approved closed session for discussion of security information (5-0)

Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board

The Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board will review the April 30, 2025 financial report, receive updates from the Operations Committee, and discuss staffing and CAD/phone data. The board will receive an informational update on the 911 Center building project and consider adopting a Voice Logger solution. A schedule change moving the September 8th board meeting to September 10th will also be addressed.

• Review of Financial Report April 30, 2025
• Operations Committee Update
• Informational and Staffing Update
• CAD & Phone Data
• Voice Logger Solution

The board approved the agenda, the May 7 minutes, and the April 30 financial report. It authorized purchase of voice‑logger recording equipment and software for $46,193.00. The September 8 joint powers board meeting was rescheduled to September 10. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved May 7, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved April 30, 2025 financial report (unanimous)
• Approved Voice Logger Recording Equipment and Software purchase for $46,193.00 (unanimous)
• Approved moving September 8, 2025 meeting to September 10, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Rice County Board of Adjustment will meet to consider variance requests regarding property setbacks and impervious surface limits. These requests involve the replacement of a cabin and the construction of garages in Wells, Warsaw, and Cannon City Townships.

• Variance for cabin replacement at 5989 177th St W 16 (lake and road setbacks)
• Variance for detached garage/shed at 21240 Elmore Ave (side property line setback)
• Variance for detached garage/shed at 15005 Darvey Ct (front property line setback)
• Variance for attached garage at 21070 Dawson Ct (lake, road, and impervious surface limits)

The Rice County Board of Adjustment unanimously approved the reading of the notice, the meeting agenda, and the minutes from May 1, 2025. It also approved three variance requests—Burmeister (replacement cabin), Keys (detached shed), and Lang (detached shed)—each with specific conditions. All motions received a vote of Yes from Julia Hogan, Matt Purfeerst, and Jim Cihak with no nay votes.

• Approved reading of the notice (3-0)
• Approved the agenda (3-0)
• Approved minutes of May 1, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved Burmeister variance for replacement cabin with conditions (3-0)
• Approved Keys variance for 32‑ft × 48‑ft shed with conditions (3-0)
• Approved Lang variance for 30‑ft × 48‑ft shed with conditions (3-0)

Planning Commission

The Rice County Planning Commission will consider seven applications. Three Waiver of Plat requests seek to create 5‑acre agricultural building sites using Transfer Development Rights in Webster, Wells, and Webster Townships. Four Interim Use Permit requests involve grading, fill, aggregate mining, and renewal of a 1 MW solar facility on agricultural or Wild & Scenic lands. Recommendations will be forwarded to the County Board for final action at the June 10 meeting.

• Waiver of Plat – Anthony Fisher, 3400 Lonsdale Blvd W, 5‑acre site, Section 27, Webster Township
• Waiver of Plat – Robert Schema, 5‑acre site, Section 22, Wells Township
• Waiver of Plat – Sean Hebel, two 5‑acre sites, Section 22, Webster Township
• Interim Use Permit – Frank Grazzini, driveway grading, 10498 160th St W, Shieldsville Township
• Interim Use Permit – Nokomis Energy/Wells Garden LLC, renewal for 1 MW solar facility, 19600 Roberds Lake Blvd, Faribault

The Rice County Planning Commission unanimously approved a Waiver of Plat for Anthony Fisher to create a 5‑acre building site in Webster Township with six conditions. It also approved Waiver of Plat requests for Robert Schema in Wells Township and Sean Hebel in Webster Township, each with seven conditions. Additionally, the commission approved an Interim Use Permit for Frank Grazzini to grade and fill a driveway in Shieldsville Township, subject to five conditions.

• Approved Waiver of Plat for Anthony Fisher (5‑acre site) – unanimous (Julia Hogan, Matt Purfeerst, Jim Cihak)
• Approved Waiver of Plat for Robert Schema (5‑acre site) – unanimous (Julia Hogan, Matt Purfeerst, Jim Cihak)
• Approved Waiver of Plat for Sean Hebel (5‑acre site) – unanimous (Julia Hogan, Matt Purfeerst, Jim Cihak)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for Frank Grazzini – unanimous (Julia Hogan, Matt Purfeerst, Jim Cihak)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board will consider an award bid for the MSW Landfill Cell 4B construction. It will also review several liquor license renewals and temporary permits, highway and park agreements, and administrative resolutions including a private development contract and a tax‑abatement termination. The meeting includes routine items such as agenda approval, minutes, and a consent agenda.

• Award bid for MSW Landfill Cell 4B Construction (Environmental Services)
• Liquor License Renewal for Vintage Escapes Winery at 8950 Dodd Rd, Kilkenny (July 1 2025 – June 30 2026)
• Liquor License Renewal for Boonies Bar & Grill at 3301 Millersburg Blvd, Faribault (July 1 2025 – June 30 2026)
• Detour Agreement with City of Northfield (Highway and Parks)
• Resolution 25-020 Amended and Restated Contract for Private Development with Tru Vue Inc. (Administration)

The Rice County Board approved a $25,000 contract with Widseth Engineers to prepare a regional park status application for Cannon River Wilderness Park. It also approved a notice of award to Borneke Construction for MSW Landfill Cell 4B and several liquor‑license renewals and temporary permits. Additional actions included a detour agreement for the Mill Towns State Trail and the termination of a property‑tax abatement.

• Approved notice of award to Borneke Construction for MSW Landfill Cell 4B (5-0)
• Approved liquor license renewal for Vintage Escapes Winery (5-0)
• Approved liquor license renewal for Boonies Bar & Grill (5-0)
• Approved temporary on‑sale liquor license for Rotary Club of Northfield (5-0)
• Approved MN Lawful Gambling exempt permit for Ducks Unlimited Northfield Chapter (5-0)
• Approved detour agreement with City of Northfield for Mill Towns State Trail (5-0)
• Approved $25,000 contract to Widseth Engineers for regional park status application (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 25-023 terminating property tax abatement (5-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review updates regarding county parks and highways. Discussions include grant-funded fishing projects and a regional park status application.

• Letter of support from Mill Town Trail JPB for CSAH 78 reconstruction
• DNR grant for shore fishing projects
• Consultant proposals for Cannon River Wilderness Park Regional Park Status application

The Committee of the Whole discussed several park and highway items but did not approve any of those proposals. The only formal action taken was the motion to adjourn, which was approved unanimously. No votes were cast against the motion. Future decisions on the discussed items will be taken at the May 27 Board of Commissioners meeting.

• Adjourned meeting (motion approved, 5-0)

Rice County Board of Commissioners Open Forum

The Board will hold an open forum at 8:00 a.m. where members of the public may speak on topics not on the agenda. No specific items are scheduled for decision; the meeting is procedural.

The Rice County Board of Commissioners met on May 13, 2025 at 8:00 AM in the Commissioner’s Room, Government Services Building. Kathryn Burbank, Assistant County Attorney, spoke about a personnel appointment posting. No motions were made and the board adjourned without any decisions.

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will consider a range of items, including a highway contract, facility upgrades, technology proposals, and multiple license renewals. They will also discuss environmental permits, IT invoices, social‑service donations, and finance and administration policies. Decisions will be made on contracts, quotes, and approvals for various projects and licenses.

• Award of Contract #2573 for CSAH 46 (Hazelwood Ave.) rehabilitation and safety improvements
• Accept Technology Proposal for Rice/Steele 911 Center Relocation Project
• Approve quotes for Courthouse LED Lighting Project
• Renew Tobacco License for Dennison Depot at 12989 Dennison Blvd South (July 1 2025 – June 30 2026)
• Temporary Liquor License for Holy Cross Catholic School at 6100 37th St W Webster MN for May 22 2025

The Rice County Board approved a $5,195,847.78 highway contract, authorized purchases and service renewals, accepted a 911 center relocation proposal, and approved multiple licensing and lighting projects. All motions were approved unanimously.

• Awarded highway contract #2573 to ICON, LLC for $5,195,847.78 (5-0)
• Authorized purchase of 648 recycling carts for $32,069.92 (5-0)
• Approved renewal of Mitel support and $25,654.16 payment to Loffler (5-0)
• Accepted PSC Alliance Inc. proposal for Rice/Steele 911 Center relocation, $75,800.00 (5-0)
• Approved Courthouse LED lighting quotes: $42,390.00 (Dynamic Electric) and $31,579.30 (Viking Electric) (5-0)
• Approved Law Enforcement Center LED lighting quotes: $24,650.00 (Dynamic Electric) and $24,474.75 (Viking Electric) (5-0)
• Renewed tobacco license for Dennison Depot (July 1 2025 – June 30 2026) (5-0)
• Approved temporary liquor license for Holy Cross Catholic School for May 22 2025 (5-0)

Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board

The Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board will review the March 31 financial report, receive updates on operations and the 911 Center building project, and discuss new business items including a lease agreement, the 2026 budget timeline, and travel to the NENA conference.

• Lease Agreement
• 2026 Budget Timeline
• Out-of-State Travel – NENA Conference
• 911 Center Building Project Update
• APCO Protocol Implementation Status

The Joint Powers Board approved the 2025 lease agreement with the City of Owatonna. It also approved the March 31, 2025 financials, moved the September 3, 2025 board meeting to the same date, and authorized out‑of‑state travel for Jennifer Colby to the NENA Conference. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Agenda approval (6-0)
• April 2, 2025 minutes approval (6-0)
• March 31, 2025 financials approval (6-0)
• 2025 lease agreement with City of Owatonna approved (6-0)
• September 3, 2025 board meeting date change approved (6-0)
• Travel to NENA Conference in Long Beach approved (5-1)
• Meeting adjourned (6-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss the Rice County Chemical and Mental Health Coalition. The primary item is the nomination of County Commissioners as Prevention Champions.

• Nomination of County Commissioners as Prevention Champions for the Rice County Chemical and Mental Health Coalition

The board voted to adjourn the May 6, 2025 Committee of the Whole meeting. The motion, made by Jim Purfeerst and seconded by Charlie Peters, passed with five ayes and no nays. During the session a plaque was presented to commissioners for their role as Prevention Champions under the 2024 Tobacco Ordinance.

• Adjourned meeting (approved, 5-0)

Planning Commission

The Rice County Planning Commission will review a Waiver of Plat request for a 5‑acre site in Walcott Township. It will also consider several new applications, including preliminary plats, conditional use permits, and interim use permits for various properties across the county. Decisions will be recommended to the County Board for final approval at a later meeting.

• Waiver of Plat – Carlander, 5‑acre building site, NW1/4 Section 3, Walcott Township, Zoned A
• Preliminary Plat – Kubes for Endurance Investments LLC, 5‑lot subdivision with 3 TDRs, NW1/4 Section 3, Webster Township, Zoned A
• Conditional Use Permit – Budde for contractor office/yard, 22215 Glynview Trail, Faribault, Zoned UR
• Interim Use Permit – Novel Energy for 1 MW solar facility, 24296 Albers Ave, Faribault, Zoned A
• Conditional Use Permit – Apple Creek Orchard LLC for agricultural tourism, 5524 185th St W, Faribault, Zoned A

The Rice County Planning Commission unanimously approved a Waiver of Plat for John and Matthew Carlander, adding six specific conditions. It also unanimously approved a Preliminary Plat for Endurance Investments LLC (represented by Randy Kubes) with three conditions. Both approvals move the projects toward final platting and development.

• Approved reading of the notice (unanimous)
• Approved the agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 3, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Waiver of Plat for John and Matthew Carlander with six conditions (unanimous)
• Approved Preliminary Plat for Endurance Investments LLC (Randy Kubes) with three conditions (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Rice County Board of Adjustment will consider three variance applications. The first seeks lot‑width and setback reductions for a property at 12271 145th St E, Dennison. The second requests setback reductions for a home at 4280 Delano Ct, Faribault, including a lake setback. The third proposes a 56 % increase over the maximum land‑area allowance for a three‑lot cluster in Webster Township.

• Variance for Douglas & Karen Lien Trust, 12271 145th St E, Dennison: 29‑ft lot‑width reduction, 12‑ft and 11‑ft setback reductions.
• Variance for Dawn and Kirk Walker, 4280 Delano Ct, Faribault: 17‑ft road right‑of‑way setback reduction, 5‑ft side‑line setback reduction, 39‑ft lake setback reduction.
• Variance for Endurance Investments LLC (Randy Kubes), Webster Township: 56 % increase over the 10 % land‑area limit for a 3‑lot cluster in a high‑CPI area.

The Rice County Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a variance for the Douglas & Karen Lien Trust at 12271 145th St E, Dennison, allowing a 71‑ft lot width and setback adjustments. It also approved a variance for Dawn and Kirk Walker at 4280 Delano Ct, Faribault, permitting garage and deck additions with shoreline and septic conditions. A third variance was approved for Endurance Investments LLC at the Webster Township site, allowing a 66% cluster development under specific CPI and plat requirements.

• Approved variance for Douglas & Karen Lien Trust (12271 145th St E) with four conditions (unanimous)
• Approved variance for Dawn and Kirk Walker (4280 Delano Ct) with six conditions (unanimous)
• Approved variance for Endurance Investments LLC (Webster Township) with six conditions (unanimous)

Joint Ditch Meeting

The Joint Drainage Authority of Rice and Scott Counties will hold a public hearing to consider the partial abandonment, reroute, and impoundment of Joint Lateral 1 to County Ditch 31. The board will review the proposed changes under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 103E. No decisions are recorded in the agenda; the meeting is for discussion and public input.

• Partial abandonment, reroute, and impoundment of Joint Lateral 1 to County Ditch 31

The board approved the petition to partially abandon and re‑route County Lateral 1 to County Ditch 31 and to impound system waters, with a unanimous vote. A motion to close public comment was adopted unanimously. A motion to not use funds to defray 2,200 ft of tile replacement was approved by a 3‑2 vote (Underdahl, Peters, Purfeerst in favor; Brekke, Wolf opposed). A motion to accept the order and its changes was approved unanimously.

• Approved partial abandonment and re‑routing of Lateral 1 to Ditch 31 (unanimous)
• Approved closure of public comment period (unanimous)
• Approved motion not to defray 2,200 ft tile replacement costs (3‑2)
• Approved acceptance of the order and changes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Housing and Redevelopment Authority will meet to discuss administrative updates and program reports. The body is scheduled to review the Faribault HRA budget specifically for project-based housing.

• HRA Administrative Plan Update
• Faribault HRA Budget Review-Project-Based Housing
• Quarterly Reports

The Rice County Housing & Redevelopment Authority approved the minutes from the January 28, 2025 meeting. It also approved the HRA Administration Plan Update. Both actions were approved unanimously by all six commissioners. The meeting was then adjourned with a unanimous vote.

• Approved minutes from 1-28-2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved HRA Administration Plan Update (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board will consider several items, including approving LED lighting quotes for the courthouse and law enforcement center, holding public hearings and resolutions on cannabis and hemp retail permits, and awarding highway contracts for a bridge replacement on County 78 and paving on CSAH 48 (Lyndale Avenue). The board will also review a premise gambling permit for Elks Lodge 1166 at Winjum's Shady Acres Resort. Additional agenda items cover proclamations, a branding logo for the Parks Department, and routine administrative approvals.

• Award of contract #2575 – Bridge replacement on County 78
• Award of contract #2574 – CSAH 48 (Lyndale Avenue) paving
• Approve quotes for Courthouse LED Lighting Project
• Approve quotes for Law Enforcement Center LED Lighting Project
• Premise gambling permit for Elks Lodge 1166 at Winjum's Shady Acres Resort, 17759 177th St Faribault

The Rice County Board approved a gambling permit for the Elks Lodge at 17759 177th St W and adopted several cannabis-related resolutions. It also approved multiple interim use permits, plat waivers, and awarded highway contracts to ICON LLC and Crane Creek Asphalt. A motion to correct bid submissions was tabled, and payments for Zix Essentials and Civic Plus services were authorized.

• Approved Premise Gambling Permit for Elks Lodge 1166 at 17759 177th St W (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution #25-013 amending Ordinance #910 Cannabis and Hemp Retail Business Registration (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution #25-014 Temporary Cannabis Event Permitting (4-1)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for Corey Kielmeyer, Section 34 Webster Township (5-0)
• Approved Waiver of Plat for David Sorgatz, Section 13 Morristown Township (5-0)
• Tabled motion to allow bid corrections for Facilities Department (5-0)
• Approved payment of Zix Essentials annual subscription $25,000 (5-0)
• Awarded contract #2575 to ICON LLC, low responsible bidder for project SAP 066-678-002 (5-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss the Youth in Government 2025 program and provide legislative updates. It will review the EHawk contract with the Rice County Treatment Court. Financial items include a report on cash and pooled investments and a quarterly financial report for the period ending March 31, 2025. Public comments will be accepted after each presentation.

• Youth in Government 2025
• Legislative Discussion and Updates
• EHawk contract with Rice County Treatment Court
• Cash & Pooled Investments for the period ending March 31, 2025
• Quarterly Financial Report for the period ending March 31, 2025

The Committee of the Whole approved a motion to adjourn the meeting. The motion was moved by Charlie Peters, seconded by Galen Malecha, and passed with five votes in favor and none against. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Adjourned meeting approved (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will discuss an off‑site gambling permit for Waseca Sleigh & Cutter scheduled for May 4, 2025 at The Channel Inn. The meeting also includes items on community corrections, such as a travel request for Treatment Court members to attend the RISE25 conference, an RFP for a Treatment Court defense attorney, and an eHawk contract for the Treatment Court. Additional agenda items cover transportation and psychological service contracts, a sheriff's boat safety grant, a proclamation for National Crime Victims Week, and routine administration and union ratification matters.

• Off‑site gambling permit for Waseca Sleigh & Cutter on May 4, 2025 at The Channel Inn
• Out‑of‑state travel request for Treatment Court team members to attend the RISE25 conference
• Approval of an RFP announcement for a Treatment Court Defense Attorney
• Approval of eHawk contract for use in Rice County Treatment Court
• Transportation contract with Three Rivers

The Rice County Board of Commissioners approved an off‑site gambling permit for Waseca Sleigh & Cutter and a series of contracts for treatment court, social services, and public safety. The board also ratified the union contract for the Community Corrections Union and adopted the consent agenda. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved Off‑Site Gambling Permit for Waseca Sleigh & Cutter (5‑0)
• Approved Rice County staff attendance at RISE25 Treatment Court Conference in Florida (5‑0)
• Approved contract with eHawk for Rice County Treatment Court services (5‑0)
• Approved transportation agreement between Social Services and Three Rivers, Inc. (5‑0)
• Approved Day Treatment Services contract with Lighthouse Psychological (5‑0)
• Approved 2025 State of Minnesota Annual County Boat and Water Safety Grant contract (5‑0)
• Approved proclamation for National Crime Victims Week April 6‑12, 2025 (5‑0)
• Approved and ratified 2025‑2027 MNPEA Community Corrections Union contract (5‑0)

Rice County Board of Commissioners Open Forum

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will hold an open forum allowing members of the public to speak on topics relevant to the county's work. Speakers are limited to three minutes and must provide their name and residency status.

• Public Open Forum with 3-minute speaking limit
• Online participation available via Zoom
• Rules of decorum and participation guidelines provided

The Rice County Board of Commissioners convened at 8:00 AM on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. No members of the public spoke during the open forum. The minutes record no approvals, denials, or other actions taken.

Planning Commission

The Rice County Planning Commission will consider three interim use permit applications for temporary aggregate crushing operations and four waiver of plat requests to create agricultural building sites using transfer development rights. All items will be heard and recommendations will be made for County Board approval at a later meeting.

• Interim Use Permit for Kielmeyer Construction Inc. at 8127 Chester Ave, Northfield (April–Nov 2025)
• Interim Use Permit for Kielmeyer Construction Inc. at 15905 Johnson Trail, Nerstrand (April–Nov 2025)
• Interim Use Permit for Paul Donkers at 22762 Gates Ave, Faribault (April–Nov 2025)
• Waiver of Plat for John and Matthew Carlander – 2.5‑acre site in Walcott Township via Transfer Development Right
• Waiver of Plat for David Sorgatz – 4.41‑acre site in Morristown Township via Transfer Development Right

The Rice County Planning Commission unanimously approved the reading of the notice, the updated agenda, and the minutes from March 6, 2025. It also approved three Interim Use Permits for aggregate crushing operations at 8127 Chester Ave (Northfield), 15905 Johnson Trail (Nerstrand), and 22762 Gates Ave (Faribault), each with a $50,000 bond and conditions through November 30, 2025. No votes were cast against any item.

• Approved reading of the notice (5-0)
• Approved updated agenda (5-0)
• Approved March 6, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for 8127 Chester Ave, Northfield (5-0)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for 15905 Johnson Trail, Nerstrand (5-0)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for 22762 Gates Ave, Faribault (5-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Rice County Board of Adjustment will consider three variance requests for properties in Wells, Shieldsville, and Walcott Townships. The meeting will be held at 6:00 PM on April 3, 2025, in the Commissioner's Room. The public may attend in person or remotely via Zoom.

• Gerhart/Variance: 35-ft variance from 75-ft Lake setback at 17817 180th St W
• Ellingson/Variance: 784-sqft variance from 1200-sqft size limit and 6-ft height variance at 7581 209th St W
• Gillen/Variance: 30-ft variance from rear property line setback at Part of Government Lot 10, NE1/4, Section 16
• Approval of Minutes - Regular Meeting - March 6, 2025
• Approval of Agenda

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a 35‑ft setback variance for Lisa Gerhart’s new home at 17817 180th St W, with conditions on tree planting and construction timing. It also unanimously denied Larry Ellingson’s request for a larger garage and increased peak height at 7581 209th St W. Both decisions were recorded with full member support and no opposing votes.

• Approved Gerhart 35‑ft setback variance (5‑0)
• Approved Gerhart variance conditions: tree planting, permit deadline, compliance requirements
• Denied Ellingson 784‑sqft size variance and 6‑ft peak height variance (5‑0)
• Recorded denial of Ellingson variance with findings of no unique hardship

Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board

The Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board will review the February 28 financial report and provide updates on several administrative items, including staffing, CAD & phone data, and the 911 Center building project. The Operations Committee will report that no March meeting was held. New business includes a mapped ALI solution and information about National Public Safety Telecommunicator Week (April 13‑19).

• Review of Financial Report – February 28, 2025
• Operations Committee Update – No March Meeting
• Informational and Staffing Update
• CAD & Phone Data
• 911 Center Building Project Update

The board approved the meeting agenda with an added new‑business grievance item. It approved the March 5, 2025 meeting minutes and the February 28, 2025 financial report. The board also approved a memorandum of understanding authorizing the signing of the Mapped ALI Solution software contract. Finally, the board adjourned the meeting.

• Approved agenda with added grievance item (7-0)
• Approved March 5, 2025 minutes (7-0)
• Approved February 28, 2025 financial report (7-0)
• Approved MOU for Mapped ALI Solution software (7-0)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (7-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hear the 2024 Rice County Public Health Annual Report, discuss the request for proposals for a Treatment Court Defense Attorney, and receive the Annual Ditch Inspector’s Report. No formal actions are listed; the items are for information and discussion.

• 2024 Rice County Public Health Annual Report
• Discussion of RFP request for a Treatment Court Defense Attorney
• Annual Ditch Inspector’s Report

The committee approved a modification to the Treatment Court Enhancement Grant, redirecting the funds to provide defense counsel services. No vote tally was recorded for this approval. The board also approved a motion to adjourn the meeting, with all listed members voting in favor and no opposition.

• Approved grant award modification to allocate Treatment Court Enhancement Grant funds to defense services (vote tally not recorded)
• Motion to adjourn meeting approved (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board will consider several permits, contracts, and project agreements. Items include gambling permits for the Elko Baseball Club and Holy Cross Catholic School, a bridge replacement on CR 78, and a cooperative engineering agreement with the City of Faribault. The board will also review amendments to design contracts, a roofing contract for a salt shed, and a resolution to sponsor local trails.

• Approval of One Day Gambling Permit for Elko Baseball Club
• Holy Cross Catholic School Tax‑Exempt Gambling Permit for April 25, 2025 at 6100 37th St W, Webster
• Advancement of bridge replacement for bridge #88048, County Road 78
• Engineering and Construction Cooperative Project Agreement with the City of Faribault
• Amendment of design contract with the City of Northfield, CR 79, Wall Street Road

The Rice County Board approved adding a bridge replacement on County Road 78 to the 2025 construction program and budget. It also approved several gambling permits, cannabis ordinance hearings, a $38,400 IT licensing payment, and joint powers agreements with state anti‑drug programs. All actions were approved unanimously.

• Approved addition of bridge replacement on CR 78 to 2025 construction program and budget (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)
• Approved payment of $38,400 to CIT for vSphere licensing (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)
• Approved Elko Baseball Club one‑day gambling permit for April 24, 2025 at Ranchero Supper Club, 4452 40th St W, Wester, MN (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)
• Approved Holy Cross Catholic School tax‑exempt gambling permit for April 25, 2025 at 6100 37th St W, Webster (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)
• Approved Intent to Enact public hearing on April 22, 2025 for amendments to Ordinance #910 Cannabis and Hemp Retail Business Registration (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)
• Approved Intent to Enact public hearing on April 22, 2025 for adoption of Ordinance #920 Temporary Cannabis Event Permitting (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)
• Approved Joint Powers Agreement with the State of Minnesota Anti‑Methamphetamine Program (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)
• Approved Joint Powers Agreement with the State of Minnesota Anti‑Heroin Task Force Program (AYES: Steve Underdahl, Galen Malecha, Jim Purfeerst, Gerry Hoisington, Charlie Peters; NAYS: None)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will receive the cash and pooled investment report and the quarterly financial report for the period ending Dec 31 2024. It will also hear updates on the county highway system. No specific actions or votes are listed in the agenda.

• Cash & pooled investments report for period ending Dec 31 2024
• Quarterly financial report for period ending Dec 31 2024
• Highway updates

The Rice County Committee of the Whole met on March 18, 2025, and received updates on finances and highway projects. No formal decisions were made; all items were informational or planned for future action.

• Received cash and pooled investments overview for period ending Dec 31, 2024
• Received quarterly financial report update for period ending Dec 31, 2024
• Discussed upcoming 50-year shingles request and County Road 79 amendment with Northfield
• Discussed culvert project award, cost split with Northfield to be brought forward next week
• Discussed future projects with Lonsdale and CSAH 78 trail project with Dundas, Northfield, Bridgewater Township
• Agreed to adjourn (motion approved, all in favor)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners and Planning Commission will hold a joint work session. The body will continue discussions regarding specific zoning ordinance amendments.

• Discussion of Chapter 516 Shoreland Districts amendments
• Discussion of Chapter 505 General Regulations amendments
• Discussion of Chapter 506 Environmental Performance Standards amendments

Rice County Board of Commissioners Open Forum

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will hold an open forum at 8:00 a.m. on March 11, 2025. Members of the public may speak for up to three minutes on topics relevant to county work. Comments are recorded on an open‑forum card and must follow the county’s public‑participation rules. No formal agenda items or decisions are scheduled for this meeting.

The Rice County Board of Commissioners met on March 11, 2025, but the minutes record no substantive decisions. The meeting was called to order, no public comments were made, and it adjourned after 30 minutes.

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss contracts for highway design and roofing. The board will also review environmental services grants and equipment replacements.

• Professional engineering design contract for Phase 1, County Road 20
• Roofing contract award
• Recycling/HHW Forklift Replacement
• Greater Minnesota Waste Reduction, Reuse, Recycling & Composting Grant Agreement
• Adult Services Contract

The Rice County Board approved several contracts and agreements, including a $427,412 design contract for County Road 20 phase 1, a $24,476.90 forklift purchase, a grant agreement for waste reduction, and an adult services contract with Scott County. The board also tabled a roofing contract award to update the timeframe, and approved the consent agenda including bills totaling $1,147,007.99 and personnel appointments.

• Approved County Road 20 phase 1 design contract to Widseth for $427,412 (5-0)
• Approved Hyundai forklift purchase with trade-in and warranty for $24,476.90 (5-0)
• Approved Greater Minnesota Waste Reduction, Reuse, Recycling and Composting grant agreement (5-0)
• Approved Adult Services contract with Scott County (5-0)
• Tabled roofing contract award to update timeframe, to be brought back in two weeks (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including bills totaling $1,147,007.99 and personnel appointments (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Rice County Planning Commission will consider several land‑use applications. Items include waivers of plat for agricultural sites, a preliminary and final plat for a lot line rearrangement, a conditional use permit amendment to add two 90,000‑gallon storage tanks, and multiple interim use permits for temporary aggregate crushing operations. The commission will vote to recommend approval, denial, or continuation of each item.

• Waiver of Plat for Beaver Creek Bluffs LLC (5‑acre building site) at 2143 70th St W, Northfield (Zoned A, Agricultural) – Section 23, Webster Township, PID# 02.23.4.00.002
• Preliminary and Final Plat for lot line rearrangement for Larry & Denise Ellingson Trusts at 7575 and 7581 209th St W, Morristown (Zoned GDS) – Section 36, Shieldsville Township, PID#s 09.36.3.77.001 & 09.36.3.77.002
• Conditional Use Permit amendment for Gary Lynch Trust to add two 90,000‑gallon storage tanks for liquefied petroleum distribution at NE1/4 of SW1/4 Section 26, Webster Township, PID# 02.26.3.00.002 (Zoned A)
• Interim Use Permit for aggregate crushing at 2598 158th St E, Faribault (Cannon City Township) – PID#s 11.05.4.25.002 & 11.05.1.50.001 (Zoned A & WS)
• Interim Use Permit for temporary aggregate crushing at 8127 Chester Ave, Northfield (Webster Township) – PID# 02.34.1.25.001 (Zoned A)

The Rice County Planning Commission recommended approval of five land-use applications: a waiver of plat for a 5-acre TDR building site, a preliminary and final plat for a lot line rearrangement, a waiver of plat for a property line rearrangement, a conditional use permit amendment for two additional propane storage tanks, and an interim use permit for aggregate mining. Three interim use permits for aggregate crushing operations were tabled to the April 3 meeting. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Recommended approval of Waiver of Plat for Giles/Beaver Creek Bluffs LLC (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Preliminary & Final Plat for Ellingson (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Waiver of Plat for Tuma (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Conditional Use Permit amendment for Lynch (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Interim Use Permit for Bongers (5-0)
• Tabled three Interim Use Permits for Kielmeyer to April 3, 2025 (5-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will consider five separate variance applications regarding setbacks, parcel width, and building size. The board will also discuss a revised 2025 meeting schedule due to a conference conflict.

• Variance for septic system setback at 6068 170th St E
• Variance for house addition setback at 9115 90th St E
• Variance for new home lake setback at 17817 180th St W
• Variance for minimum parcel width at 2143 70th St W
• Variance for garage size limitation at 7581 209th St W

The Rice County Board of Adjustment approved three variance requests: a septic setback variance for Krissandra Moriarity, a road setback variance for Annalise and Keith Quinnell, and a lot width variance for Collin Giles on behalf of Beaver Creek Bluffs LLC. Two other variance requests, for Lisa Gerhart and Larry Ellingson, were tabled to the April 3, 2025 meeting. The board also approved a revised 2025 meeting schedule, moving the October meeting to October 2.

• Approved Moriarity septic setback variance (25-ft from 100-ft) with 6 conditions (5-0)
• Approved Quinnell road setback variance (40-ft from 100-ft) with 5 conditions (5-0)
• Approved Giles lot width variance (79-ft from 100-ft) with 5 conditions (5-0)
• Tabled Gerhart lake setback variance to April 3, 2025 (5-0)
• Tabled Ellingson garage size variance to April 3, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved revised 2025 meeting schedule (5-0)

Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board

The Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board will review the January 31, 2025 financial report and receive an Operations Committee update. Administration will provide staffing information, a five‑year anniversary note for Amanda Rothbauer, and a 911 Center building project update, including a site tour planned for April. New business includes out‑of‑state training on May 8‑9 in Mason City covering active attacker and domestic/family violence topics.

• Review of Financial Report – January 31, 2025
• Operations Committee Update
• 911 Center Building Project Update – tour new building site in April
• Informational and Staffing Update – 5‑Year Anniversary for Amanda Rothbauer
• Out‑of‑State Training May 8‑9 in Mason City – Active Attacker and Domestic & Family Violence Workshops

The Rice County Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board met on March 5, 2025, and approved the meeting agenda, the February 5, 2025 minutes, and the January 31, 2025 financial report. The board also approved out-of-state training. Staff provided informational updates on operations, staffing, CAD/phone data, and the new building project.

• Approved the meeting agenda
• Approved the February 5, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved the January 31, 2025 financial report
• Approved out-of-state training

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss a property tax and elections item. The primary topic is the opportunity to move the Aumentum Property Tax System to a hosted model.

• Discussion of Aumentum Property Tax System hosted opportunity

The Rice County Committee of the Whole unanimously supported a plan to move the property tax system away from current server storage, with a contract to be brought back for official approval at a later board meeting. No formal contract was approved at this session. The meeting also added a Sheriff's Office update to the agenda and adjourned.

• Added Sheriff's Office update to agenda (approved unanimously)
• Endorsed new tax system direction to eliminate server storage (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (approved unanimously)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss facility relocations and land use permits. The board is reviewing a proposal for the Rice/Steele 911 Center and several interim use and plat waivers.

• Proposal for Rice/Steele 911 Center Relocation Project
• Consumption & Display Permit renewal for The Barn at Crocker's Creek
• Interim Use Permits for Johnson (Morristown Township) and Carver (Cannon City Township)
• Plat waivers for Trnka (Forest Township) and Balfe (Erin Township)
• Ratification of 2025, 2026 and 2027 LELS Captains Union

The Rice County Board approved the proposal for the Rice/Steele 911 Center Relocation Project, along with several land-use permits, grants, and a union contract. All votes were unanimous (4-0). The board also approved a consent agenda including $2,038,324.91 in bills and four personnel appointments.

• Approved Rice/Steele 911 Center Relocation Project proposal (4-0)
• Approved waiver of plat for Steven and Elaine Trnka in Forest Township (4-0)
• Approved waiver of plat for Charlene M Duban Trust in Erin Township (4-0)
• Approved interim use permit for Max Johnson Trucking Inc in Morristown Township (4-0)
• Approved interim use permit for Nokomis Energy and Carver Garden LLC in Cannon City Township (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution #25-010 replacing conservation easement for Dennis and Daniel Minske (4-0)
• Approved Emergency Management Performance Grant (4-0)
• Ratified 2025-2027 union contract for LELS Local #539 Captains Union (4-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will open with a call to order and pledge of allegiance, then hear updates from the Highway Department presented by Dennis Luebbe. No formal actions or decisions are listed on the agenda. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Highway Department updates (presented by Dennis Luebbe)
• Public comment period (3‑minute limit per speaker)

The Rice County Committee of the Whole met on February 18, 2025, and received a brief update from Highway and Parks Director Dennis Luebbe on the Decker Avenue study and the Mill Town State Trail Segment project. No formal decisions or votes were taken on these items; the only action was a motion to adjourn, which was approved unanimously.

• Adjourned the meeting (4-0)

Rice County Board of Commissioners Open Forum

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will hold an Open Forum on February 11, 2025 at 8:00 AM. Members of the public may address the board on any topic not listed on the agenda, with each speaker limited to three minutes. No specific resolutions, contracts, or ordinances are scheduled for discussion or decision at this meeting.

The Rice County Board of Commissioners convened for an open forum on February 11, 2025, but no members of the public came forward to speak. The meeting was then adjourned, with no substantive decisions made.

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners will review applications for temporary liquor licenses, award road paving and surfacing contracts, and ratify contracts for the MNPEA Deputies and MNA Nurses unions.

• Applications for temporary malt liquor licenses for Church of St Patrick
• Applications for temporary liquor licenses for Church of the Annunciation
• Renewal of consumption and display permit for Grandma's Lakeside Resort
• Award of Contract- CSAH 27 asphalt paving
• Ratification of MNPEA Deputies Union Contract for 2025, 2026 & 2027

The board approved a $1,033,885.68 road construction contract with Crane Creek Asphalt, ratified union contracts for deputies and nurses, and approved various licenses, permits, and payments. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved $1,033,885.68 road contract to Crane Creek Asphalt (5-0)
• Ratified 2025-2027 MNPEA Deputies union contract (5-0)
• Ratified 2025-2027 MNA Nurses union contract (5-0)
• Approved $836,728.71 in bills (5-0)
• Approved temporary liquor licenses for Church of St Patrick and Church of the Annunciation (5-0)
• Approved renewal of consumption/display permits for Grandma's Lakeside Resort and LeMieux Resort (5-0)
• Approved $500 D.A.R.E. donation from Aldorfer Family (5-0)
• Approved dismissal of uncollectable Community Corrections fees (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Rice County Board of Commissioners and Planning Commission will hold a joint work session to discuss amendments to Chapter 523 Subdivision Regulations and Park Dedication Fees. The meeting will include a period for public input.

• Joint work session with Planning Commission
• Discussion of Chapter 523 Subdivision Regulations amendments
• Review of Park Dedication Fees
• Public comment period (3 minutes per person)

Planning Commission

The Rice County Planning Commission will consider two requests for building site waivers and two interim use permits. These requests involve agricultural land in Forest, Erin, Morristown, and Cannon City townships.

• Interim Use Permit for aggregate mining at 23606 Lake Avenue, Waterville
• Interim Use Permit for a 1MW Solar Energy Production site at 3119 197th Street East, Faribault
• Waiver of Plat for a 5-acre building site at 13800 Echo Avenue, Lonsdale
• Waiver of Plat for a 5-acre building site at 9723 Jacobson Trail, Lonsdale

The Rice County Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of four land-use applications: two Waivers of Plat (Trnka and Balfe/Duban Trust) to create 5-acre building sites via Transfer Development Rights, an Interim Use Permit for an aggregate mining operation (Johnson/Max Johnson Trucking Inc), and an Interim Use Permit for a 1MW solar energy production site (Carver Garden LLC). All approvals were subject to specific conditions, including fees, bonds, and operational restrictions. The commission also approved the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting.

• Approved Waiver of Plat for Trnka to create 5-acre TDR building site (4-0)
• Approved Waiver of Plat for Balfe/Duban Trust to create 5-acre TDR building site (4-0)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for Johnson aggregate mining with 18 conditions (4-0)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for Carver 1MW solar site with 12 conditions (4-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved minutes of January 9, 2025 (4-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Rice County Board of Adjustment will consider four variance applications. The requests involve setbacks and height limits for properties in Wheatland, Morristown, Warsaw, and Forest Townships. Each applicant will present their proposal and the board will recommend approval, denial, or continuation.

• Travis Scheffler seeks a 40‑ft setback variance from the 100‑ft ROW for a home renovation at 10255 Union Lake Trail, Lonsdale (Zoned A – Agricultural).
• Thomas Metzdorff requests a variance for the number of detached buildings and a 4‑ft height variance to allow an 18‑ft storage building at 10833 270th Street West, Waseca (Zoned NES – Natural Environment Shoreland).
• Cannon Lake Cabins LLC, represented by Matthew Gersemehl, seeks a 35‑ft lake‑setback variance and a 30‑ft ROW setback variance for a replacement cabin at 3646 Cannon Lake Trail, Faribault (Zoned GDS – General Development Shoreland).
• Steven and Elaine Trnka request a 50‑ft ROW setback variance for a proposed home at 13800 Echo Avenue, Lonsdale (Zoned A – Agricultural).

The Rice County Board of Adjustment approved all four variance requests on the agenda, each unanimously (4-0). The variances allow for a home renovation, a shed relocation, a cabin replacement, and a new home construction, all subject to specific conditions. No requests were denied or tabled.

• Approved 40-ft road setback variance for home renovation at 10255 Union Lake Trail, Lonsdale (4-0)
• Approved variances for relocated storage shed at 10833 270th Street West, Waseca (4-0)
• Approved variances for cabin replacement at 3646 Cannon Lake Trail, Faribault (4-0)
• Approved 50-ft road setback variance for new home at 13800 Echo Avenue, Lonsdale (4-0)

Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board

The Rice & Steele 911 Center Joint Powers Board will meet on February 5, 2025. The board will review the December 31, 2024 financial report and receive updates on staffing, CAD and phone data, and the 911 Center building project. New business includes GIS support, discussion of adding another county, ratifying the union contract for 2025‑2026, and adopting non‑union wages and benefits for 2025‑2026. A closed session will be held as required by Minnesota law.

• Review of Financial Report December 31, 2024
• 911 Center Building Project Update
• GIS Support discussion
• Ratification of Union Contract for 2025 & 2026
• Adoption of Non‑Union Wages and Benefits for 2025 & 2026

The Joint Powers Board approved the union contract and the non-union wages and benefits for 2025-2026, both unanimously. They also approved the agenda, previous minutes, and December 31, 2024 financials. The board received updates on staffing, CAD/phone data, and the move to Faribault, and held a closed session.

• Approved agenda (7-0)
• Approved January 6, 2025 minutes (7-0)
• Approved December 31, 2024 financials (7-0)
• Approved union contract (7-0)
• Approved non-union wages & benefits for 2025 & 2026 (7-0)
• Closed session held 4:31-4:49 pm