McLeod County public meetings in 2021

2021

The Board of Commissioners will discuss personnel changes within Health and Human Services, including a new administrative position and adjustments to nursing hours. The meeting also includes votes on business license renewals and a land plat approval.

• Approval of Sketch Plan 21-07 for a 1-Lot plat in Acoma Township
• Liquor and tobacco license renewals for Brownton Rod and Gun Club, Big Don’s Carthedral Inc., Dollar General, and Cactus Jacks II
• Proposal to add a new Health and Human Services Administrative Assistant position (grade 130)
• Proposal to increase a Public Health Nurse position by 12 hours per week with a yearly financial impact of approximately $19,000.00
• Consideration of an hourly rate increase for the McLeod County Veteran Van Driver

The board unanimously approved several personnel actions, including adding an HHS Administrative Assistant position, adjusting Public Health Nurse hours, and creating a new Emergency Preparedness Coordinator role. They also increased the Veteran Van Driver hourly rate to $18.70. A consent agenda with plat and license approvals was passed.

• Approved consent agenda including Sketch Plan 21-07 and liquor/tobacco license renewals (unanimous)
• Approved adding and posting HHS Administrative Assistant position, grade 130 (unanimous)
• Approved decreasing one Public Health Nurse's hours from 80 to 64 per pay period (unanimous)
• Approved increasing a Public Health Nurse position from 56 to 80 hours per pay period (unanimous)
• Approved full-time Public Health Nurse: Emergency Preparedness Coordinator position, grade 170 (unanimous)
• Increased Veteran Van Driver hourly rate to $18.70 (unanimous)

2021

The Board of Commissioners will review the 2022 final property tax levy and budget, as well as salaries for elected officials. The meeting includes several high-cost equipment purchases for public works and courthouse facility upgrades.

• 2022 Final Property Tax Levy and Budget (Preliminary levy of $25,909,283.00)
• Purchase of three Mack Tandem chassis and equipment packages totaling $867,402.00
• Courthouse make-up air unit upgrade from Foster Mechanical for $102,220.00 using ARPA funds
• Professional services agreement with 95 West Aerial Mapping for $48,669.00
• Lease of courthouse office space to MN Department of Corrections for $106,229.16 over six years

The McLeod County Board approved the 2022 final property tax levy and budget at $25,909,283, a 3% increase over 2021. The board also approved several purchases, including three new snow plow trucks and equipment packages totaling over $867,000, and adopted a resolution to participate in multistate opioid settlements. All decisions were made unanimously.

• Adopted 2022 final property tax levy and budget at $25,909,283 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of three 2023 Mack Tandem chassis for $429,690 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of three Towmaster truck equipment packages for $437,712 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-40 to participate in multistate opioid settlements (unanimous)
• Approved $102,220 make-up air unit upgrade at Courthouse/LEC using ARPA funds (unanimous)
• Approved $48,669 aerial mapping agreement with 95 West Aerial Mapping (unanimous)
• Approved $43,007.68 in commissioner warrants (unanimous)
• Set 2022 elected official salaries: Attorney $131,975, Auditor-Treasurer $91,974, Recorder $86,137, Sheriff $107,018 (unanimous)

Truth in Taxation

The county is conducting a Truth in Taxation meeting to review the proposed 2022 budget and tax levy. The session is intended for public comment and discussion regarding these financial plans.

• Review of 2021 valuation for taxes payable in 2022
• Review of 2022 tax information
• Review of 2022 budget and tax levy

The McLeod County Board held its Truth in Taxation meeting to review the proposed 2022 budget and tax levy, which includes a 3% levy increase. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational and included public comments. Two residents raised concerns about tax increases and requested cost-cutting measures.

• No formal decisions made; meeting was informational

2021

The Board of Commissioners is deciding on several equipment purchases, including election tablets and security software. The meeting also covers land plat approvals, liquor and tobacco licenses, and personnel changes.

• Purchase of OmniBallot Tablets from SeaChange Election Services for $101,552.00
• Agreement for Statewide Security Monitoring Initiative CrowdStrike Service for $10,660.00
• Proposal to replace nine cameras in the Environmental Services Building for $15,489.00
• Emergency HVAC unit replacement for the Environmental Services Building for $8,921.00
• Approval of 1-lot Final Plat 21-09 (Kutschara Acres) and 2-Lot Final Plat 21-10 (Fleischacker Addition)

The McLeod County Board approved the purchase of OmniBallot Tablets from SeaChange Election Services for $101,552 to replace aging AutoMARK assisted voting devices. The board also adopted a resolution authorizing application for a state Voting Equipment Grant (VEGA-3) to help fund the purchase. Several other contracts, plats, licenses, and personnel actions were approved unanimously.

• Approved $101,552 purchase of OmniBallot Tablets from SeaChange Election Services (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-36 authorizing application for VEGA-3 Voting Equipment Grant (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including 2 final plats, liquor/tobacco licenses, and $12,749 COVID grant (unanimous)
• Reallocated $4,300 drainage outlet benefit from JD 9 to JD 115 McLeod (unanimous)
• Approved $15,489 camera replacement at Environmental Services Building (unanimous)
• Approved $8,921 emergency HVAC replacement at Environmental Services Building (unanimous)
• Approved $10,660 CrowdStrike cybersecurity agreement with State of Minnesota (unanimous)
• Approved new Economic Development Coordinator position, grade 180 (unanimous)

2021

The McLeod County Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting. The primary focus is a closed session with the County Attorney to discuss a condemnation matter for project SAP 43-615-014 (CSAH 15).

• Discussion of condemnation for SAP 43-615-014 (CSAH 15) involving landowners Vorlicek, Selchow, and Posusta

The McLeod County Board of Commissioners held a special meeting and, after a closed session, approved a final settlement agreement to pay an additional $7,500 to the Selchow property owners for a condemnation related to SAP 43-615-014 (CSAH 15). The payment will come from the Highway Construction budget (03-320). The board also approved the agenda and the closed meeting, all by 4-0 votes.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Closed meeting for condemnation discussion (4-0)
• Approved $7,500 additional payment to Selchow property owners as final settlement (4-0)

2021

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding the 2022 County Fee Schedule. The body is also deciding on several equipment purchases, including six Dodge Durango vehicles and network infrastructure for Hutchinson locations.

• Public hearing for the 2022 McLeod County Fee Schedule
• Purchase of six 2022 Dodge Durango vehicles totaling $206,264.00
• Network infrastructure equipment for Hutchinson locations from ConvergeOne for $57,492.55
• Real property sale to The Overland Group, LLC for $310,000.00
• Payment of $43,553.71 to Asphalt Surface Technologies Corp. for pavement marking and seal coat

The McLeod County Board approved the 2022 County Fee Schedule, adopted resolutions for online tax-forfeited land sales and BCA services, and approved multiple purchases including sheriff's vehicles, a trailer, and IT equipment. The board also received COVID-19 updates and approved several planning permits.

• Approved 2022 McLeod County Fee Schedule (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-34 for Public Surplus online auction site for tax forfeited land sales (unanimous)
• Approved Joint Powers Agreement and Resolution 21-CB-35 with Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 2022 Dodge Durango for Sheriff's Office, $34,766 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 2022 Dodge Durango for Emergency Management, $32,438 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of four 2022 Dodge Durangos for Sheriff's Office, $139,064 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Towmaster T-12DT trailer, $8,173.50 (unanimous)
• Approved IT network infrastructure equipment from ConvergeOne, $57,492.55 (unanimous)

2021

The Board of Commissioners will consider several infrastructure payments and a police services agreement for the City of Silver Lake. The meeting also includes discussions on drainage authority updates and health insurance addendums for multiple employee unions.

• Police services agreement with City of Silver Lake for $155,220.00
• Payment of $28,618.75 to Shafer Contracting Co. for concrete overlays on CSAH 2, CSAH 3, and CSAH 15
• Payment of $22,363.34 to Everstrong Construction, Inc. for Bridge 43504 replacement on CSAH 11
• AMC annual membership dues for 2022 in the amount of $17,256.00
• Proposed City of Hutchinson TIF Plan 4-22 for the redevelopment of the Jorgensen Hotel site

The McLeod County Board approved the sale of county land (PID 22.060.5140, 22.060.5130, 22.060.4695) to the Overland Group for $310,000, accepting a $1,000 down payment and six-month inspection period. The board also approved several contracts, including a five-year inmate phone services deal with TKC TeleComm LLC and a police services agreement with the City of Silver Lake. Additionally, they adopted Resolution 21-CB-33 to form a joint drainage authority with Wright County and approved multiple health insurance addenda for various unions.

• Approved sale of county land to Overland Group for $310,000 (4-0)
• Approved 5-year contract with TKC TeleComm LLC for jail inmate phone services (unanimous)
• Approved police services agreement with City of Silver Lake for $155,220/year (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-33 forming joint drainage authority with Wright County (4-0)
• Approved final payment of $28,618.75 to Shafer Contracting for highway overlays (4-0)
• Approved final payment of $22,363.34 to Everstrong Construction for bridge replacement (4-0)
• Approved reassignment of H2Over Viewers for drainage redetermination (4-0)
• Approved 2022 AMC membership dues of $17,256 (4-0)

2021

The Board of Commissioners will review several land use requests, including two solar garden permits and two rezonings. The meeting also includes decisions on 2022 non-union wage scales and various IT infrastructure contracts.

• Proposed 3% wage increase and 1.5% wage scale adjustment for 2022 non-union employees
• Rezoning request for a concrete redi-mix plant (parcel 13.031.2100) and mini-storage units in Sumter Township
• Conditional Use Permits for a 1-megawatt solar garden in Winsted Township and a 0.5-megawatt array in Hale Township
• Microsoft Enterprise Agreement renewal payment of $87,235.00 and SQL Server upgrade of $31,020.00
• $23,000.00 in AIS Funds for the Lake Marion Carp Clean Out Project

The McLeod County Board approved two conditional use permits for solar gardens, including a 1-megawatt project in Winsted Township over neighbor objections and a 0.5-megawatt project in Hale Township following a court remand. Both approvals were 4-1 with Commissioner Schmalz dissenting. The board also approved rezoning for a concrete plant and mini-storage units, and set 2022 non-union wages with a 3% increase.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit 21-21 for 1-MW solar garden in Winsted Township (4-1)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit 19-23 for 0.5-MW solar garden in Hale Township (4-1)
• Approved Rezoning Permit 21-01 for concrete redi-mix plant in Sumter Township (unanimous)
• Approved Rezoning Permit 21-02 for mini-storage units in Sumter Township (unanimous)
• Approved $23,000 AIS grant for Lake Marion carp clean out (unanimous)
• Set 2022 non-union wages with 3% increase and 1.5% scale adjustment (unanimous)
• Approved $13,528 for Microsoft Azure AD licensing (unanimous)
• Tabled City of Glencoe recycling receptacle removal until Jan 18, 2022 (unanimous)

2021

The Board of Commissioners will discuss 2022 drainage assessments and non-union health insurance employer contributions. The meeting includes several conditional use permits for land and business operations and a lease agreement for a driver exam station.

• Proposed bituminous maintenance overlay on County Road 115 for $124,386.48
• Proposed 2022 non-union health insurance employer contributions ranging from $728.69 to $1,457.38
• Conditional Use Permit to increase dog capacity at Back Forty Kennel, LLC from 25 to 50
• Change Order 2 to Rickert Excavating for $13,965.38 for culvert changes
• Snow removal contract for Glencoe facilities awarded to Neubarth Lawn Care & Landscaping

The board approved a not-to-exceed $150,000 bituminous maintenance overlay for County Road 115 (Airport Road) and a $22,000 pavement marking contract. It also adopted Resolution 21-CB-28, setting 2022 drainage assessments totaling $504,334.05 across multiple systems. The board approved a new lease with the State of Minnesota for a driver exam station in Glencoe, and approved the 2022 non-union health insurance employer contributions.

• Approved $150,000 not-to-exceed overlay for County Road 115 (4-1)
• Approved $22,000 not-to-exceed pavement marking for County Road 115 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-28 setting 2022 drainage assessments totaling $504,334.05 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-30 approving DVS lease for driver exam station (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 non-union health insurance employer contributions (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including snow removal contract, plats, and conditional use permits (unanimous)
• Set 2022 drainage assessment interest at 3% (unanimous)

no

The Board of Commissioners will review five tax levy options ranging from a 1% to 5% increase over the 2021 amount of $25,154,644.00. The meeting includes decisions on solar array permits, a courthouse boiler contract, and land classification. The board will also receive COVID-19 updates from Health and Human Services and Administration.

• Preliminary Tax Levy options ranging from $25,406,190.00 (1%) to $26,412,376.00 (5%)
• Conditional Use Permits for two one-megawatt solar arrays in Winsted Township
• Courthouse boiler/pump controls contract for Northern Air Corporation for $14,190.00
• 2022 Lidar project partnership with the State of Minnesota at an estimated county cost of $52,000.00
• Resolution 21-CB-29 to classify tax forfeited land as non-conservation land

The McLeod County Board set the 2022 preliminary tax levy at $25,909,283.00, a 3% increase over the 2021 levy of $25,154,644.00. The board also authorized the County Attorney to give preliminary approval for two previously denied solar array conditional use permits, with conditions to be set at a future public hearing. Additionally, the board approved a $14,190 contract for boiler controls, a $52,000 partnership for a 2022 Lidar project, and relisted three county properties for sale at a total price of $310,000.

• Set 2022 Preliminary Tax Levy at $25,909,283.00 (3% increase) (4-0)
• Authorized County Attorney to give preliminary approval for Conditional Use Permits 20-20 and 20-21, with conditions (4-0)
• Awarded controls contract for boiler/pump integration to Northern Air Corporation for $14,190.00 (4-0)
• Committed to 2022 Lidar partnership with State of Minnesota, estimated county cost $52,000.00 (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-26 authorizing County Administrator as designated agent for court-appointed attorney MGA access (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-29 classifying tax-forfeited land as non-conservation land (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including gambling permits, temporary liquor licenses, and meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $53,363.44 (4-0)

2021

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing two conditional use permits for one-megawatt community solar garden arrays. The meeting also includes discussions on MnDOT ADA improvements in Glencoe and potential amendments to the county zoning ordinance.

• Two conditional use permits for one-megawatt community solar gardens by Novel Energy Solutions
• Proposed contract with Streamworks for tax notice processing estimated at $13,754.00
• Design engineering for bridge 43515 on County Road 71 estimated at $8,900.00
• Final payment of $9,945.87 to Duininck, Inc. for highway rehabilitation on CSAH 5 and 16
• Proposed sale of 0.0378 acres along TH 22 to MnDOT for ADA sidewalk improvements

The McLeod County Board approved two Conditional Use Permits for one-megawatt community solar garden projects by Novel Energy Solutions, one in Winsted Township (3-2 vote) and one in Helen Township (unanimous), each with conditions including bonds, landscaping, and interconnection agreements. The Board also approved amendments to the County Zoning Ordinance (Sections 5, 7, and 17) that set a 330-foot setback for solar arrays from dwellings (4-1 vote).

• Approved Conditional Use Permit 21-16 for Brian Roushar to build an accessory building over 2,400 sq ft on a 7.39-acre parcel in Bergen Township, for personal use only.
• Approved the consent agenda, including the sale of a 2010 Ford Escape, renewal of a curtailment maintenance agreement, and a revised AIS grant for the Belle Lake Association.
• Approved Streamworks (Blaine, MN) to process Truth in Taxation notices, tax statements, and valuation notices for an estimated $13,754.00.
• Approved joining the Belle Lake Association for $50.00 per year (4-1 vote).
• Hired Erickson Engineering for design services for bridge 43515 rehabilitation on County Road 71 for an estimated $8,900.00.
• Approved temporary permits for MnDOT's ADA improvement project along TH 22 in Glencoe.
• Approved the sale of 0.0378 acres of County property along TH 22 to MnDOT for $3,700.00, contingent on retaining one access point.
• Approved Conditional Use Permit 21-14 for a solar garden in Helen Township (unanimous) and Conditional Use Permit 21-15 for a solar garden in Winsted Township (3-2 vote).

2021

The Board of Commissioners will review several land-use permits and infrastructure contracts. Key items include a grant application for a highway extension and the purchase of a vehicle for veteran services.

• Proposed $750,000 TEDI grant application for the CSAH 5 Extension Project between CSAH 1 and CSAH 9
• Proposed $34,000 purchase of a 2019 Ford Flex SEL for Veteran Services
• Proposed $34,000 contract with Steile Construction for fiber-optic line relocation on Highway 212
• Proposed $10,650 contract with Schmidt Curb Company for a new Courthouse parking lot exit on Judd Avenue
• Conditional Use Permits for a cold storage building in Acoma Township and an indoor firearms range in Lynn Township

The McLeod County Board approved the sale of the Hennepin Avenue properties (North Complex, Annex, Highway Sheds) to Hennek Business Holdings LLC for approximately $751,000, and the Ford Avenue properties (former HHS Building and adjoining land) to Mark M. Ahlbrecht for approximately $130,000. The board also approved a $7,500 settlement with Ron and Kathryn Blazinski regarding a condemnation dispute, and approved a $34,800 contract for fiber-optic line relocation. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved sale of Hennepin Avenue properties to Hennek Business Holdings LLC for ~$751,000 (unanimous)
• Approved sale of Ford Avenue properties to Mark M. Ahlbrecht for ~$130,000 (unanimous)
• Approved $7,500 settlement with Ron and Kathryn Blazinski (unanimous)
• Approved $34,800 fiber-optic line relocation contract with Steile Construction (unanimous)
• Approved $750,000 TEDI grant application for CSAH 5 Extension (unanimous)
• Approved $10,650 courthouse parking lot exit installation (unanimous)
• Approved $1,000,000 LRIP grant amendment for Morningside Project (unanimous)
• Approved $10,800 QLess virtual line software renewal (unanimous)

2021

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing several public works awards, including road material processing and intersection lighting. The meeting also covers a new HR and payroll software contract and the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act funds.

• Contract for processing 40,000 tons of Class 5 modified material with Reiner Contracting Incorporated for $240,675.00
• UKG Human Resources, Timekeeping, and Payroll Package contract for $55,293.75
• Roof repair project for Environmental Services with Schwickert’s Tecta America for $57,745.00
• Tree and brush removal quotes from S&S Excavating for CD 05 ($52,300.00) and CD 13 ($13,100.00)
• Proposed allocation of American Rescue Plan Act dollars for qualified expenses up to $50,000.00

The McLeod County Board approved tree and brush removal quotes from S&S Excavating for County Ditch 05 ($52,300) and County Ditch 13 ($13,100), after the lowest bidder withdrew. The board also approved several other contracts, including a $27,737 intersection lighting project, a $240,675 road material processing bid, and a $55,293.75 HR/payroll software contract. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved S&S Excavating tree/brush removal for CD 05 ($52,300) and CD 13 ($13,100) (unanimous)
• Approved $27,737 intersection lighting contract for CSAH 15 and TH 7 to Design Electric (unanimous)
• Approved $240,675 bid to Reiner Contracting for processing 40,000 tons of Class 5 material (unanimous)
• Approved Change Orders 7 and 8 for Morningside Reconstruction Project (unanimous)
• Approved $39,712 in additional engineering services from SEH (unanimous)
• Approved $57,745 roof repair for Environmental Services to Schwickert's Tecta America (unanimous)
• Approved $55,293.75 UKG HR/Payroll software contract (unanimous)
• Approved allocating up to $50,000 in ARPA funds for qualified county expenses (unanimous)

2021

The McLeod County Board of Commissioners will discuss highway investment plans and COVID-19 updates. The board is deciding on a contract for ditch engineering and the distribution of aquatic invasive species grant funds.

• Proposed $18,200 contract with Houston Engineering Incorporated for County Ditch 12A Historic Review and Culvert Sizing Report
• Proposed distribution of AIS Grant Funds to Belle Lake Association for treatment of 16.2 acres
• Notification of 10 Year Capital Highway Investment Plan regarding Highway 212 and Trunk Highway 7 roundabout
• Proclamation of July 27, 2021 as Minnesota County Staff Appreciation Day
• Notification of Sibley McLeod Joint Drainage Authority Public Hearing on July 29, 2021

The McLeod County Board approved a $18,200 historic review and culvert sizing report for County Ditch 12A by Houston Engineering, and agreed to pay up to $200,000 in additional costs for the Morningside Road Project. They also approved distributing AIS grant funds to Belle Lake Association, and authorized the sale of county-owned parcels. The board received a COVID-19 update and proclaimed July 27 as County Staff Appreciation Day.

• Approved $18,200 for County Ditch 12A historic review and culvert sizing report (unanimous)
• Approved paying up to $200,000 for additional Morningside Road Project costs (unanimous)
• Approved AIS grant fund distribution to Belle Lake Association (unanimous)
• Approved publishing sale of ~10.5 acres in Section II, Township 115, Range 28 (unanimous)
• Approved not appealing findings by United States Solar Corporation and USS Water Fowl Solar LLC (unanimous)

2021

The McLeod County Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting to discuss the Morningside Reconstruction Project. The discussion includes representatives from Public Works, the City of Glencoe, SEH, and Duininck, Inc.

• Morningside Reconstruction Project discussion

The McLeod County Board voted to modify the Morningside Reconstruction Project in Glencoe, changing the curb and gutter design at railroad crossing medians from B624 to S524. The decision came after concerns about semi-truck navigation and safety. The project, a joint county-city effort, remains paused, with work unlikely to resume before late August.

• Approved curb design change from B624 to S524 at railroad medians (unanimous)

2021

The Board of Commissioners will consider a resolution to end the local emergency declaration regarding COVID-19. Other items include software renewals, infrastructure repairs, and personnel staffing changes.

• Resolution 21-CB-23 to end the local COVID-19 emergency
• $24,514.89 for CommVault software support renewal
• $11,371.49 for ESRI ArcGIS software maintenance renewal
• $45,571.00 for ApplicationXtender, Workflow, and document scanner maintenance
• Culvert rehabilitation on County Road 4 estimated at $21,000.00

The McLeod County Board unanimously adopted Resolution 21-CB-23 to end the local COVID-19 emergency declared on March 24, 2020. The board also approved a consent agenda including licenses, permits, and IT contracts, and took action on several other items such as a tax settlement, a service agreement, and a culvert repair.

• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-23 to end the local COVID-19 emergency.
• Approved the consent agenda, including a temporary liquor license for Winstock, a gambling permit for Brownton Rod & Gun Club, and IT software maintenance renewals.
• Approved a tax court settlement for Richard Petersen, reducing property value from $225,500 to $178,900.
• Approved a 3-year service agreement with ReCollect for digital waste/recycling communication tools.
• Approved the Dickenson's Addition preliminary/final plat to combine two lots into one in Rich Valley Township.
• Approved a $21,000 culvert rehabilitation on County Road 4 using a cured-in-place pipe liner.
• Approved a $35,690.05 additional services contract for County Ditch 63, with a revised total not to exceed $124,000.
• Approved historic review reports for County Ditches 05, 13, and 29 at a total estimated cost of $67,900.

Board of Appeals & Equalization

The Board of Appeal and Equalization is meeting to hear property assessment appeals. The agenda includes scheduled appointments for specific property owners and a review of recommendations from the County Assessor.

• Appeal appointment: Two Rivers Rental LLC (23.050.3000)
• Appeal appointment: John A Mathwig (04.056.0010/04.056.0020)
• Appeal appointment: Brownton Mini Storage LLC (16.050.0586)
• Appeal appointment: Kathleen Knox Hoogland Living Trust (23.060.0020)
• Appeal appointment: RCG Hutchinson MN LLC (23.486.0010)

2021

The Board of Commissioners will discuss a proposed open burning ordinance and review permits for the Winstock Country Music Festival and Winsted Craft Beer Festival. The meeting also includes decisions on vehicle purchases, facility repairs, and personnel staffing.

• Proposed Open Burning Ordinance public hearing
• Purchase of 2021 Dodge Durango for $34,338.00
• Request for 2022 State Capitol Bond Funds for a HATS facility storage building and fueling facility
• Large assembly permits for Winstock Country Music Festival and Winsted Craft Beer Festival
• SmartNET annual maintenance contract for $12,544.71

The McLeod County Board approved a construction agreement and notice of award with Rickert Excavating for County Ditch 63 repairs in the amount of $549,553.10, pending contractor submittals. The board also approved findings and order denying MRRR, LLC's petition to drain an additional 32.96 acres into the ditch, citing insufficient capacity and disrepair. The public hearing on CD63 was recessed to July 6, 2021, and a separate hearing on the open burning ordinance was also recessed to that date.

• Approved consent agenda including warrants, AC replacement, DotGov domain request, Honeywell remote access, and SmartNET maintenance.
• Approved Sergeant Al Liepold and an additional team member to attend the NTOA conference, not to exceed $1,200.
• Approved purchase of a 2021 Dodge Durango for the Sheriff's Office for $34,338.
• Approved the yearly agreement with the State of Minnesota for the Sheriff's Boat and Water Safety program for $3,587.
• Approved Resolution 21-CB-22 supporting a request for 2022 State Capitol Bond Funds for a storage building and fueling facility at HATS.
• Approved licenses for the 2021 Winsted Craft Beer Festival and the 2021 Winstock Country Music Festival.
• Approved the Memorandum Agreement for the South Fork Crow River Watershed Management Plan.
• Approved the Tyler Technologies SaaS amendment, temporary stipend, and grade assignments for Public Works Accountant and Finance Consultant positions.

2021

The Board of Commissioners will review several requests including land use permits, infrastructure contracts, and a large software upgrade. Discussions also include COVID-19 updates and various drainage authority hearings.

• Purchase of iasWorld CAMA, Tax and Cashiering Software for $384,882.00
• Countywide 6" edge line pavement marking contract with Sir Lines-A-Lot for $60,699.04
• Purchase of a Kuhn rotary disc mower for $8,695.00
• Class 5 gravel application for County Road 58 estimated at $27,000.00
• Conditional Use Permit for Buffalo Sun, LLC community solar garden in Helen Township

The board denied a petition by MRRR, LLC to drain an additional 32.96 acres into County Ditch 63, citing insufficient capacity in the system. The decision was made after a public hearing where the board considered the ditch's current condition and the lack of evidence that the water historically drained into the ditch. The vote was 4-1, with Commissioner Luthens dissenting.

• Denied petition to add 32.96 acres to County Ditch 63 (4-1)
• Approved consent agenda including conditional use permits, liquor licenses, and letter of support for US Highway 212 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Kuhn GMD 240HD mower for $8,695 (unanimous)
• Awarded pavement marking contract to Sir Lines-A-Lot for $60,699.04 (unanimous)
• Approved gravel quote from Riverview Aggregates at $8.46/ton (unanimous)
• Authorized soliciting bids for Class 5 material processing (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use permit for SunShare Community Solar (3-2)
• Approved purchase of iasWorld software from Tyler Technologies for $384,882 (unanimous)

2021

The Board of Commissioners is deciding on several personnel changes and service contracts. Key discussions include hiring outside engineering specialists for road rehabilitation projects and purchasing new medical equipment for emergency vehicles.

• Purchase of 13 Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) for $14,615.25
• Contract with Braun Intertec for plant inspection not to exceed $65,000.00
• Hiring a MnDOT Engineering Specialist for project inspection not to exceed $70,000.00
• Proposed part-time Social Worker position for Long-Term Care and Developmental Disabilities Unit
• Public hearing on June 15, 2021, regarding a proposed Open Burning Ordinance

The McLeod County Board approved the purchase of 13 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for $14,615.25, hiring Braun Intertec for concrete/bituminous plant inspection (not-to-exceed $65,000), and hiring an MnDOT Engineering Specialist for project inspection (not-to-exceed $70,000). The board also approved a Health and Human Services liaison agreement with Hutchinson Health, an unpaid personal leave and backfill, a new part-time social worker position, and an accounting technician hours increase. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved purchase of 13 AEDs from Minnesota Safety Council for $14,615.25 (unanimous)
• Approved hiring Braun Intertec for plant inspection, not-to-exceed $65,000 (unanimous)
• Approved hiring MnDOT Engineering Specialist for project inspection, not-to-exceed $70,000 (unanimous)
• Approved HHS Liaison Agreement with Hutchinson Health (unanimous)
• Approved unpaid personal leave for HHS employee June 2021-June 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved backfill of one full-time HHS position (unanimous)
• Approved adding part-time 28-hour Social Worker in LTC-D unit (unanimous)
• Approved increasing Accounting Technician from 14 to 28 hours/week (unanimous)

2021

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the acceptance of federal relief funds and the extension of the Coronavirus Relief Fund Committee. The meeting includes decisions on land use permits, jail medical contracts, and infrastructure agreements.

• Acceptance of approximately $6.9 million in American Rescue Plan relief funds
• Medical contract renewal for McLeod County Jail with Advanced Correctional Healthcare, Inc. for $62,303.43
• Conditional Use Permit for a 1-megawatt community solar garden array system in Helen Township
• Cooperative Construction Agreement with MnDOT for intersection lighting at TH 7 and CSAH 15
• Approval of 1-lot plat in Acoma Township and 1-lot sketch plan in Winsted Township

The board unanimously adopted Resolution 21-CB-21 to accept approximately $6,961,226 in American Rescue Plan funds and extended the Coronavirus Relief Fund Committee through December 31, 2024. The board also approved a one-year contract renewal for the Material Recovery Facility with West Central Sanitation, sent a solar garden conditional use permit back to the Planning Commission, and approved several other routine items.

• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-21 accepting $6,961,226 in American Rescue Plan funds (unanimous)
• Approved MRF operations contract renewal with West Central Sanitation (unanimous)
• Sent SunShare Community Solar conditional use permit back to Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Approved MnDOT cooperative agreement for intersection lighting at TH 7 and CSAH 15 (unanimous)
• Approved temporary increase of Child Support Officer hours to 40 until Oct 1 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-18 authorizing MPCA proposal for County Ditch 63 repair (unanimous)
• Appointed Kevin Lindeman to Buffalo Creek Watershed District Board (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-20 reappointing Ryan Freitag as Drainage Inspector (unanimous)

2021

The McLeod County Board of Commissioners is meeting to discuss infrastructure projects, IT upgrades, and personnel grading. The body will consider several contracts for public works and emergency management, as well as the salary grade for a new Economic Development Director position.

• Proposed $466,783.49 contract with Asphalt Surface Technologies Corp. for countywide pavement marking and seal coating
• Proposed server replacements from Xigent Solutions not to exceed $102,491.34
• Proposed salary grade 220 for the new Economic Development Director position with an anticipated budget impact of $70,283.20 - $105,435.20 plus benefits
• Proposed $16,179.50 for Sheriff's Office E-911 equipment maintenance from Independent Emergency Services
• Proposed $12,749.00 in purchases for N95 respirators using the Emergency Management Performance Grant – Supplemental

The McLeod County Board unanimously approved a $466,783.49 contract with Asphalt Surface Technologies Corp. for countywide pavement marking and seal coating, the low bid among six received. The board also approved several IT purchases, including a $102,491.34 server replacement and a $5,200 NetMotion software renewal, plus a $6,075.72 purchase of N95 respirators using grant funds. A new Economic Development Director position was graded at level 220, and the board approved a contract with Fahey Sales Auctioneers to remove and sell heaters from the former Health and Human Services building.

• Approved $466,783.49 road projects to Asphalt Surface Technologies Corp. (unanimous)
• Approved $102,491.34 server replacements from Xigent Solutions (unanimous)
• Approved $5,200 NetMotion software renewal from Verizon Wireless (unanimous)
• Approved $6,075.72 N95 respirator purchase from McKesson (unanimous)
• Approved Economic Development Director position at grade 220 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-16 sponsoring Crow River Sno Pro's trails (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Fahey Sales Auctioneers for heater removal/sale (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including E-911 maintenance and grants (unanimous)

2021

The McLeod County Board of Commissioners will discuss infrastructure upgrades, including jail security systems and courthouse maintenance. The board is also reviewing a 5-year highway and bridge construction plan and an ADA Transition Plan for public right-of-way.

• Proposal from Foster Mechanical to replace courthouse boilers for $174,200.00
• Jail camera system upgrades and data storage totaling $59,961.42
• 2021-2025 Highway and Bridge construction plan
• ADA Transition Plan for Public Right-of-Way public hearing
• Conditional Use Permit JP21-C1 for a 30’ x 56’ accessory structure in Acoma Township

The board awarded three road overlay projects to Shafer Contracting Co. Inc. for $5,704,661.15 and approved the 2021-2025 Highway and Bridge construction plan. It also approved jail camera upgrades totaling $59,961.42, courthouse boiler replacement and related work for $209,080, and a $58,975 settlement in an eminent domain case. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 2021-2025 Highway and Bridge construction plan.
• Awarded road overlay projects to Shafer Contracting Co. Inc. for $5,704,661.15.
• Approved jail camera system upgrades for $59,961.42.
• Approved courthouse boiler replacement for $174,200.00.
• Approved asbestos abatement for $6,480.00 and glycol system replacement for $28,400.00.
• Approved settlement of $58,975.00 in eminent domain case.
• Approved consent agenda including conditional use permits, plats, and abatement policy.
• Adopted ADA Transition Plan for Public Right-of-Way.

2021

The McLeod County Board of Commissioners will review several conditional use permits for agricultural structures and gravel mining. The board is also considering the denial of a solar garden project and approving various public works contracts and personnel grade assignments.

• Proposed denial of a 1-megawatt community solar garden array system in Winsted Township
• Conditional Use Permits for gravel mining by Riverview Aggregates ($25,000 bond) and Rickert Excavating ($6,000 bond)
• Renewal of Check Point firewall maintenance services for $31,204.35
• Demolition of the Kitty Kastle foundation by Luedtke Contracting for $4,500.00
• Letter of support for the $68,000,000 US Highway 212 Rural Freight Mobility and Safety Project

The McLeod County Board voted 4-1 to deny a conditional use permit for a 1-megawatt community solar garden on prime farmland in Winsted Township, despite the applicant's arguments. The board also approved a consent agenda including several conditional use permits for agricultural structures and gravel mining, and approved various administrative items such as a $31,204.35 firewall maintenance contract and a $4,500 demolition contract.

• Denied Conditional Use Permit 21-03 for a solar garden on prime farmland (4-1 vote).
• Approved consent agenda including Conditional Use Permits for grain bins, gravel mining, and a plat.
• Approved $11,026.95 exclusion of parcel from County Ditch 15A redetermination.
• Approved $140/acre rent for 7.5 acres of county land to Mark Ahlbrecht.
• Authorized letting dates for 2021 pavement marking, seal coating, and edgeline striping projects.
• Approved $4,500 quote for demolition of Kitty Kastle foundation.
• Approved letter of support for US Highway 212 project.
• Approved closing of McLeod Sibley Trailblazer Health Insurance Self-Funded Account.

2021

The McLeod County Board of Commissioners is meeting to distribute state coronavirus relief funds to local businesses and establish a corresponding revenue fund. The board is also reviewing engineering for a new roundabout and a temporary loan to the Ditch Fund.

• Distribution of $709,749.09 in Coronavirus Relief Funds to 33 businesses and administrative fees
• Engineering contract for a single-lane roundabout at CSAH 25/115 with Stonebrook Engineering not to exceed $236,324.11
• Temporary loan of $609,200.00 from the General Revenue Fund to the Ditch Fund
• Sale of the 'Kitty Kastle' structure to Otting House Movers for $5,501.00
• Purchase of $10,236.94 in vaccination clinic supplies and signage via EMPG-S grant

The McLeod County Board approved the distribution of $709,749.09 in Coronavirus Relief Funds to 30 qualified local businesses and entities, with funds to be disbursed before the April 1 state deadline. The board also approved a $609,200 temporary loan from the General Revenue Fund to cover negative balances in several drainage ditch funds, and hired Stonebrook Engineering for the design of a single-lane roundabout at the CSAH 25/115 intersection.

• Approved the consent agenda, including meeting minutes, warrants, a fraud investigator cell phone allowance, and a precious metal dealer license renewal.
• Approved $10,236.94 in purchases under the EMPG-S COVID-19 grant for privacy cubes, panels, and portable signs for vaccination clinics.
• Approved the auction/sale of a 2013 Chevrolet Impala from the Jail Fleet through Fahey Auctions.
• Approved distribution of $21,398.94 in Aquatic Invasive Species grant funds to the Lake Marion AIS Program.
• Approved a Tax Court settlement with Marshall Concrete, reducing assessed values on two parcels for payable years 2019 and 2020.
• Approved the sale of the Kitty Kastle structure to Otting House Movers for $5,501.00.
• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-12 for a $609,200 temporary loan from the General Revenue Fund to the Ditch Fund at 3% interest.
• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-14 to establish a special revenue fund for Coronavirus Relief Fund distribution.

2021

The McLeod County Board is meeting to discuss public safety agreements, road infrastructure projects, and various personnel and contract approvals. Key items include a potential aid agreement for civil unrest and a public hearing regarding County Ditch 63.

• Mutual aid agreement with the City of Minneapolis for civil unrest related to police officer trials
• Purchase of two 2021 Ford F150 pickups for $63,958.82
• Public hearing for County Ditch (CD) 63 Petition for Outlet from MRRR, LLC
• Zix email encryption renewal with American Communications Inc for $9,100.00
• Proposed $50.00/hour paralegal fee for Court Administration

The McLeod County Board approved a mutual aid agreement with the City of Minneapolis to potentially assist during expected civil unrest related to the trials of former Minneapolis police officers. The board also tabled a petition to add 32.96 acres to County Ditch 63 until June 1, 2021, and approved several administrative, personnel, and equipment items. The CARES fund distribution item was removed from the agenda and will be considered at the March 2, 2021 meeting.

• Approved mutual aid agreement with City of Minneapolis (5-0)
• Tabled MRRR, LLC petition for additional lands into CD 63 until June 1, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including jail food service rate increase, property tax refund, and contracts (5-0)
• Approved auction of Peterbilt Semi Tractor with Fahey Sales Auctioneers (5-0)
• Approved Court Appointed Attorney Billing Policy (5-0)
• Set paralegal fee at $50.00/hour (5-0)
• Approved purchase of two 2021 Ford F150 pickups for $63,958.82 (5-0)
• Approved tax court settlement on parcel 23.325.0050 (5-0)

2021

The Board is considering several personnel changes including increased hours for a public health nurse and new sheriff's office positions. Additionally, the meeting includes discussions on road reconstruction grants and various property matters.

• Adopt Resolution 21-CB-08: $10,000.00 grant for County Veterans Service Officer operational needs
• Purchase of two Dodge Durangos for $34,338.00 each and one Dodge Charger for $27,161.00
• Application for LRIP funding for CSAH 5 Extension Project up to $1,250,000.00
• Proposed increase of McLeod County Public Health Nurse from 28 to 36 hours per week
• Addition of up to three Communications Officers for the Sheriff’s Office

2021

The Board of Commissioners will consider a program outline and timeline for the Coronavirus Relief Fund. They are also reviewing several service agreements for mental health and supervised visitation, as well as infrastructure and IT upgrades.

• Proposed Coronavirus Relief Fund for businesses with fewer than 35 employees
• Mental Health Hold Order Services agreement with Hutchinson Health at $1,610.00 per client daily
• Outpatient Mental Health Services agreement with Hutchinson Health not to exceed $15,000.00
• Payment of $30,192.35 to Duininck, Inc. for CSAH 19 rehabilitation project
• Purchase of wireless presenting components from Provision Media for $39,541.01

The McLeod County Board approved the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) program outline and timeline, which will provide grants to eligible businesses and nonprofits with fewer than 35 employees impacted by Minnesota's Emergency Executive Order 20-99. The application period is set for January 21 to February 1, 2021, with final approval of applicants by the Board on February 16, 2021. The Board also approved several service agreements, including mental health services with Hutchinson Health and a new parks reservation system with PerfectMind, Inc.

• Approved Coronavirus Relief Fund program outline and timeline (unanimous)
• Approved $1,610/day Mental Health Hold Order Services agreement with Hutchinson Health (unanimous)
• Approved Outpatient Mental Health Services agreement with Hutchinson Health, not to exceed $15,000 (unanimous)
• Approved $54,976.50 PACT for Families Collaborative membership (unanimous)
• Approved $45/hour supervised visitation contract with Painted Horse Ranch (unanimous)
• Approved PerfectMind parks reservation system, $12,000 initial and $6,000 annually (unanimous)
• Authorized soliciting quotes for Kitty Kastle Animal Shelter demolition/moving (unanimous)
• Approved $39,541.01 wireless presenting components for Government Center (unanimous)

2021

The Board is reorganizing for 2021, including the election of a Chair and Vice Chair. Members are discussing the transition of several departments to the new McLeod County Government Center and reviewing 2021 meeting dates.

• Contract with Central Minnesota Mental Health Center for detoxification services at $500 per client daily
• Proposed closure of License Center from January 14 to January 19, 2021, for relocation
• Proposed closures of Health and Human Services, Administration, SWCD, Veteran Services, and North Complex buildings for relocation to Government Center
• Resolution 21-CB-01 designating the county website as the official publication for transportation projects
• Proposal to hire two part-time receptionists for the Government Center

The McLeod County Board held its annual reorganization, electing Doug Krueger as Board Chair and Paul Wright as Vice Chair for 2021. The board approved a consent agenda that included a resolution designating the county website as the official publication for transportation projects. It also approved a detoxification services contract with Central Minnesota Mental Health Center at $500 per client per day, and authorized the closure of county buildings in January to facilitate the move to the new Government Center.

• Elected Doug Krueger as Board Chair for 2021 (unanimous)
• Elected Paul Wright as Board Vice Chair for 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including Resolution 21-CB-01 designating county website as official publication for transportation projects (unanimous)
• Approved $500/day detoxification services contract with Central Minnesota Mental Health Center for 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved License Center closure Jan 14-19, 2021 for move to Government Center (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-04 authorizing Human Resources to fill replacement positions in 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 County Board meeting dates, including evening meetings for Board of Appeals and Truth in Taxation (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-CB-02 designating McLeod County Chronicle as official newspaper for 2021 (unanimous)