Watonwan County public meetings in 2022

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Human Services Board will meet to review minutes, discuss director updates, and consider a series of 2023 contracts and agreements, including grants for child welfare and juvenile justice. The board will also act on personnel items such as pay-for-performance increases, permanent status, and resignations. The agenda includes routine administrative items and policy amendments.

• 2022 board write-offs presented by Collections Officer Katherine Petty
• Pay for Performance for Paige Bearson, Terresa Davis, Janel Fawcett, Gretchen Plombon
• Permanent status for Anna Menssen; resignations of Christina Rotert and Laura Curtis
• 2023 DHS Behavioral Health grants: Child Welfare $7,430, Juvenile Justice $1,858
• Amend Policy 42 – Telecommute Policy

The Board approved $16,826.86 in accounts receivable write-offs and authorized several 2023 grant and service agreements. Personnel actions included approving pay for performance for four employees and accepting two resignations. The Board also elected Dillon Melheim as 2023 Chair and Jim Pettersen as 2023 Vice Chair.

• Approved 2022 Accounts Receivables Write-Offs of $16,826.86 (Unanimous)
• Approved Pay for Performance for Paige Bearson, Terresa Davis, Janel Fawcett, and Gretchen Plombon (Unanimous)
• Approved permanent status for Anna Menssen (Unanimous)
• Approved resignations of Christina Rotert and Laura Curtis (Unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Policy 42 – Telecommute Policy (Unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Notice of Funds Available for MFIP/DWP with MN Valley Action Council for $105,586 (Unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Behavioral Health Division Grant Agreements for Child Welfare ($7,430) and Juvenile Justice ($1,858) (Unanimous)
• Reappointed Dr. Nicolas Castillo as Citizen’s Representative for a 36-month term (Unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will hold a public hearing on zoning ordinance revisions, set the 2022 tax levy and budget, and consider several administrative items. The agenda also includes presentations on DWI enforcement awards, bus quotes, fairgrounds repairs, and solid waste matters. A closed session is scheduled for performance evaluations of elected officials.

• Public hearing on revisions to Watonwan County Zoning Ordinance
• Set 2022 tax levy and budget and HRA levy
• Quotes for F350 and advertising for seal coat oil/rock, dust control & gravel
• 2023 hauler's licenses and recap of 2022 household hazardous waste events
• NuWay-K&H Purchase Agreement Amendment and Tyler Technologies training quote

The Board approved the 2023 budget and a 3.5% increase in the property net tax levy. Other key actions included updating the county zoning ordinance and authorizing the purchase of a new transit bus and two crew cab trucks.

• Adopted 2023 budget and set Property Net Tax Levy at $11,245,132 (unanimous)
• Approved proposed amendments to the Watonwan County Zoning Ordinance (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of one Class 400 transit bus from North Central Bus Sales for approx. $124,341.00 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of two F350 crew cab trucks from Chuck Spaeth Ford at $49,950.00 per truck (3-2)
• Set 2023 Commissioner base salary at $23,700.30 (4-1)
• Approved Memorandum of Understanding for dispatcher retentive incentive payments (unanimous)
• Set 2023 HRA Levy at $107,500 (unanimous)
• Approved First Amendment to Purchase Agreement with NuWay-K&H Cooperative (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Watonwan County Soil & Water Conservation District board will meet to approve routine financial items, including cost-share payments for conservation practices and amendments to contracts with extended deadlines. The agenda is largely administrative, with no major policy decisions or public hearings.

• Approve cost-share payment for Contract 21-03 (grassed waterway): $2,453.63
• Approve cost-share payments for well decommissioning contracts 20-LCG-AW-02 ($437.50) and 20-LCG-AW-03 ($447.50)
• Approve GBERBA cost-share payments for well decommissioning contracts WBIF-WW-21-83-18 through -26, totaling $1,972.50
• Amend contract WBIF-WW-21-83-13 to extend installation deadline to 12-31-2023
• Amend contracts 20-01 and 20-02 (grade stabilization structures) to extend deadlines to 12-31-2023

The Board approved the purchase of a Truax broadcast seeder and a tree planter. They also authorized payments for several cost-share contracts related to grassed waterways and well decommissioning, and extended deadlines for three other contracts.

• Approved payment of bills totaling $51,067.02 (4-0)
• Approved supervisors per diem (4-0)
• Approved payment for seed/plant license (4-0)
• Approved purchase of Truax 8-foot seeder with attachments (4-0)
• Approved purchase of a tree planter (4-0)
• Approved payment of three cost-share contracts totaling $3,338.63 (4-0)
• Approved payment of four GBERBA cost-share contracts totaling $1,972.50 (4-0)
• Approved installation date extensions for contracts WBIF-WW-21-83-13, 20-01, and 20-02 (4-0)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will hold a Truth in Taxation public hearing, where residents can comment on the proposed 2023 property tax levy. The board will also consider several administrative items, including grants, contracts, and liquor licenses.

• 2022 Emergency Management Performance Grant
• SafeAssure 2023 Service Agreement
• Final Payment Voucher for Knife River - CSAH 12 and CSAH 13
• St. James Golf Course Liquor Licenses (On/Off/Sunday)
• Truth in Taxation Public Hearing

The Board approved several infrastructure payments, including a final payment to Knife River for road overlays. They accepted an emergency management grant and authorized multiple personnel appointments and pay increases. The meeting concluded with a Truth in Taxation Public Hearing regarding the 2023 proposed budget.

• Approved final payment of $1,164,597.75 to Knife River for CSAH 12 and 13 overlays
• Accepted 2022 Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG)
• Approved $100,255.00 for MFIP/DWP administration and support services
• Approved $45,201.45 quote from Kris Engineering, Inc. for cutting edges
• Approved $10,657.64 plus maintenance for a CentralSquare dispatch station
• Approved $10,500 quote from ISG for survey and analysis on CD #1
• Approved purchase of tax-forfeited parcel at 923 5th Street North by City of St. James
• Approved 2023 landfill farmland lease with Rose Wendinger at $125/acre for 23 acres

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Human Services Board will review minutes, hear presentations on social services and collections, and receive updates from the director. Key personnel actions include a pay-for-performance review, probationary status, and the resignation of Director Naomi Ochsendorf. The board will also consider contracts, including a DHS agreement for Adult Protective Services and funding notices for SNAP services.

• Resignation of Director Naomi Ochsendorf
• Pay for Performance for Katherine Petty and Nancy Trujillo Vite
• Probationary status of Douglas Kraus, County Agency Social Worker
• Contract with DHS for Enhancing APS to respond to COVID-19: $2,387.63
• SNAP Support Services funding: $64.00; SNAP E&T Services: $657.00

The board appointed Amy Pluym as the new Human Services Director following the resignation of Naomi Ochsendorf. The board also approved several service contracts and monthly financial claims.

• Appointed Amy Pluym as Human Services Director (unanimous)
• Approved resignation of Director Naomi Ochsendorf (unanimous)
• Approved Pay for Performance for Katherine Petty and Nancy Trujillo Vite (unanimous)
• Approved probationary status of Douglas Kraus (unanimous)
• Approved $2,387.63 contract with MN Dept of Human Services for Adult Protective Services (unanimous)
• Approved SNAP Support and EFTS services funds with Minnesota Valley Action Council (unanimous)
• Approved Prairie Support Services contract for Guardianship Services (unanimous)
• Approved monthly financial claims and credit card payments totaling $320,000.00+ (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board is meeting to discuss and act on a range of items, including an active transportation grant, a memorandum of understanding with Cottonwood County, a Title VI resolution for transit, and a lidar partnership with the U.S. Geological Survey. The agenda also includes routine approvals of minutes, bills, and various agreements.

• Active Transportation Grant discussion
• Cottonwood County MOU
• TMT Title VI Resolution
• Lidar Partnership with U.S. Geological Survey
• Final Payment Vouchers for Knife River - CSAH 17, CSAH 3 & CSAH 6

The Board approved acting as a fiscal agent for a $216,155 St. James sidewalk grant and accepted a donation of 10 AEDs for the Sheriff's Department. Other actions included approving a public safety dispatch MOU with Cottonwood County and adopting a Title VI Program Plan for transit services.

• Approved acting as fiscal agent/sponsor for City of St. James Active Transportation Grant (unanimous)
• Approved MOU with Cottonwood County for Public Safety Dispatch Duties (unanimous)
• Accepted donation of 10 Stryker LifePak AEDs from Helmsley Charitable Foundation (unanimous)
• Adopted Take Me There Transit Title VI Program Plan (unanimous)
• Approved $15,000 grant match for LiDAR mapping if funded (unanimous)
• Approved final payments to Knife River for road overlays totaling $137,814.19 (unanimous)
• Accepted 2021 Emergency Management Performance Grant (unanimous)
• Approved reclassifying Dispatch Supervisor and Detention Administrator positions (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Watonwan County Soil & Water Conservation District board will meet to approve minutes, pay bills, and act on several business items including a well-decommissioning contract, equipment purchases, and a grant agreement amendment. The board will also discuss reports from staff, partner agencies, and regional groups, and vote on changing the December meeting time.

• Contract 20-LCG-AW-03: $895 estimate, $447.50 cost share for well decommissioning (Practice 351), funded by FY20 local capacity grant
• Purchase: Trimble Business Center software
• Purchase: Broadcast Seeder & Cultipacker
• Grant agreement amendment
• Change December meeting time

The Board of Supervisors approved the purchase of a 5’ seeder & cultipacker and Trimble Business Center software. The board also approved a grant agreement amendment for the 2020/2021 SWCD Programs & Operations grant and authorized $3,731.24 in bill payments.

• Approved payment of bills totaling $3,731.24 (4-0)
• Approved purchase of Trimble Business Center (4-0)
• Approved purchase of a 5’ seeder & cultipacker (4-0)
• Approved grant agreement amendment for 2020/2021 SWCD Programs & Operations grant (4-0)
• Approved payment for one night of lodging and meals for MASWCD Outstanding Conservationist (4-0)
• Approved moving the December meeting date to December 19, 2022 (4-0)
• Approved November 8, 2022 amended agenda (4-0)
• Approved October 11, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will meet to consider several routine items, including purchasing three fleet pickups for up to $130,000 and approving a $13,816 bituminous patching quote from Nielson Blacktopping. They will also discuss minutes, bills, financials, and other administrative matters.

• Approval to purchase 3 fleet pickups for 2022-2023, up to $130,000
• Approve bituminous patching quote from Nielson Blacktopping for $13,816.00
• General Election Canvassing Board meeting scheduled for November 15 at 8:30am
• Tax forfeited properties and training request for Karla Doll
• Personnel committee meeting at 8:45am

The Board approved the purchase of 11 Motorola radios using ARPA funds and authorized the public sale of tax-forfeited land parcels. Other actions included approving road patching, the purchase of three pickup trucks, and several personnel appointments.

• Approved $99,429.00 for 11 Motorola radios and programming using ARPA funds (unanimous)
• Approved $1,260.00 Uline quote for an adjustable height Dispatch desk (unanimous)
• Approved $13,816.00 Nielson Blacktopping quote for patching on CSAH 26 and CSAH 13 (unanimous)
• Approved purchasing three pickups up to $130,000.00 from State bid (unanimous)
• Approved public sale of tax-forfeited land parcels in Darfur, Madelia, and St. James (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills for General, Solid Waste, Agency, and Road and Bridge funds (unanimous)
• Approved promotion of Melissa Haseman to Assistant Library Director (unanimous)
• Appointed Sarah Jones as Dispatcher, pending background check (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Human Services Board is meeting to review minutes, hear presentations on environmental health and community support, and discuss director updates. The board will also consider personnel actions including pay-for-performance increases, probation appointments, and a resignation, as well as several 2023 contracts and agreements.

• Pay for Performance for Tara Johnson, Kelly Romsdahl, Barbara Salmela-Lind, Rhonda Sawatzky
• End of probation for Shania Hansen and Sarah Solheid
• Probation appointment of Brenda Cervantes
• Resignation of Patrick Spellman
• 2023 Licensing & Inspection Services Agreement with Brown-Nicollet Community Health Board

The board unanimously approved several personnel actions including pay-for-performance, probationary appointments, and a resignation. They also approved the 2023 Licensing and Inspection Services Agreement with Brown-Nicollet Community Health Board, a 2023 Mental Health Consultation contract, and a Child Protection Services Training Work Agreement. Monthly financial claims and credit card payments were approved. No substantive policy decisions or controversial items were discussed.

• Approved minutes of September 21, 2022 meeting as corrected (unanimous)
• Approved Pay for Performance for four staff members (unanimous)
• Approved End of Probationary Appointment to Permanent Status for two staff (unanimous)
• Approved Probationary Appointment of Brenda Cervantes (unanimous)
• Approved Resignation of Patrick Spellman in good standing (unanimous)
• Approved monthly financial claims totaling $172,433.52 and credit card payments of $1,836.76 (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Licensing and Inspection Services Agreement with Brown-Nicollet Community Health Board (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Mental Health Consultation / Clinical Supervision contract with Counseling Services of Southern MN (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board approved a Grant Proceed Disbursal Agreement with the Greater Blue Earth River Basin Alliance, accepted two resignations (a 911 Dispatcher and a Library Technical Services Coordinator), and authorized advertising for a Library Technical Services position. The board also approved annual pay step increases for three employees and closed the meeting for 10 minutes to discuss allegations against an individual. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 4 regular meeting (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $249,987.65 across six funds plus credit cards (unanimous)
• Approved Grant Proceed Disbursal Agreement with Greater Blue Earth River Basin Alliance (unanimous)
• Approved training requests for Jared Bergeman and Jeff Tetzloff (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Leah Heffele as Transit Technical Clerk (unanimous)
• Approved annual pay step increases for Laura Quiring, Alexandra Davis, and Rick Bak (unanimous)
• Accepted probationary resignation of Sandra Engstrom (911 Dispatcher) and resignation in good standing of Maeghan Gagnon (Library Technical Services Coordinator) (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Watonwan County Soil & Water Conservation District board will meet to approve the September minutes, pay bills, and set supervisor per diem. They will also take action on a groundwater protection grant agreement, purchase signs, a tree planter, and a broadcast seeder, and consider 2022 resolutions and starting a seed program. Staff and agency reports will be discussed.

• MDH Groundwater Protection Grant Disbursement Agreement
• Purchase of sign posts
• Purchase of tree planter
• Purchase of broadcast seeder & cultpacker
• Initiate seed program

The Watonwan Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors approved several action items at its October 11, 2022 meeting, including a $12,000 pull-type tree planter, a new Native Seed/Plant Program, and an MDH Groundwater Protection Grant Disbursement Agreement. The board also approved the purchase of RIM sign posts after a price increase and supervisor per diems. All votes were unanimous (3-0).

• Approved amended agenda (3-0)
• Approved September 13, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved supervisor per diems (3-0)
• Approved MDH Groundwater Protection Grant Disbursement Agreement (3-0)
• Approved purchase of RIM sign posts after price increase (3-0)
• Approved up to $12,000 for a pull-type tree planter (3-0)
• Approved initiation of a Native Seed/Plant Program (3-0)
• Approved upcoming meetings list (3-0)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will meet to consider quotes for a squad engine replacement, updates to the county zoning ordinance, and interviews for an emergency management/safety director. The agenda also includes routine items such as approving minutes, bills, appointments, and fund acceptances.

• Sheriff Jared Bergeman to present quotes for squad engine replacement
• Land Management David Haler to discuss county zoning ordinance updates
• Emergency Management/Safety Director interviews scheduled
• Red Rock Rural Water System appointments
• Acceptance of Local Assistance and Tribal Consistency Funds

The Watonwan County Board approved multiple purchases and appointments, including a $29,440 Tyler Technologies cashiering software contract (plus $10,500 annual fee) funded by ARPA, acceptance of a $100,000 Local Assistance and Tribal Consistency Fund grant, and appointment of Ryan Visher as Emergency Management/Safety Director. The board also ratified $4,500 repairs to Squad #18, approved $3,906 for nine Glock handguns, and accepted resignations of the Public Works Director and other staff.

• Approved $29,440 Tyler Technologies Cashiering Service software plus $10,500 annual fee (unanimous)
• Approved using ARPA funds for the Tyler purchase (unanimous)
• Accepted $100,000 Local Assistance and Tribal Consistency Funds (unanimous)
• Appointed Ryan Visher as Emergency Management/Safety Director (unanimous)
• Ratified $4,500 engine repair for Squad #18 by Rod's Repair (unanimous)
• Approved $3,906 purchase of nine Glock 17 Gen 5 MOS handguns from The Modern Sportsman (unanimous)
• Approved $3,995 purchase of FLIR Scion Thermal Monocular from OpticsPlanet.com (unanimous)
• Approved ending RCEF services effective October 31, 2022 (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Human Services Board will hold its regular meeting, reviewing minutes, receiving a public health presentation, and hearing director updates. The board will consider personnel actions including pay-for-performance for three staff members and probationary appointments for two others. Committee reports and financial claims are also on the agenda.

• Pay for Performance for Sandra Cuellar, Karen Oviedo Ortega, and Katy Sturm
• Probationary appointments for Desiree Garibay and Jodell Wright-Sletta
• Public Health Presentation by Michele Johnson
• Monthly financial/claims including 3rd Path 2021 Allocation
• Committee reports from SCHSAC, VFC, Immtrack, and others

The Watonwan County Human Services Board voted unanimously to deny the 2023 Children's Mental Health Residential Services Third Path Allocation due to high county costs. The board also approved pay-for-performance for three employees, probationary appointments for two staff, monthly financial claims totaling over $211,000, and permission to auction surplus medical equipment. A public health update was presented, and the August meeting minutes were approved.

• Denied 2023 Children's Mental Health Residential Services Third Path Allocation (unanimous)
• Approved pay-for-performance for Sandra Cuellar, Karen Oviedo Ortega, and Katy Sturm (unanimous)
• Approved probationary appointments for Desiree Garibay and Jodell Wright-Sletta (unanimous)
• Approved monthly financial claims totaling $211,919.26 and credit card payments of $5,987.45 (unanimous)
• Approved training for Barbara Salmela-Lind at LPHA conference and SCHSAC Retreat (unanimous)
• Granted permission to auction 2 medical refrigerators and 2 baby scales on MinnBid (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 17, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board is meeting to discuss the 2023 budget, including a work session and preliminary approval, and to consider a conditional use permit for a feedlot and a rezoning request. They will also hear presentations from NuWay and SMIF, and handle routine administrative items.

• 2023 Budget Work Session and Preliminary 2023 Budget Approval
• Schwartz Family LLC Feedlot Conditional Use Permit
• Robert Cunningham Rezoning and Deed
• NuWay purchase agreement and boundary acknowledgment
• Ratification of MCAPS support agreement with MNCCC

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Watonwan County Soil and Water Conservation District board will meet to approve several well decommissioning contracts, an amendment to a GBERBA contract with increased costs, and other administrative items. They will also discuss reports from staff and partner agencies, and set the December meeting date.

• Contract 20-LCG-AW-02: well decommissioning, $875 estimate, $437.50 cost share
• Contract WBIF-WW-21-83-25: well decommissioning, $1,200 estimate, $600 cost share
• Contract WBIF-WW-21-83-26: well decommissioning, $895 estimate, $447.50 cost share
• Amendment to GBERBA Contract WBIF-WW-21-83-13: estimate raised from $16,740 to $21,425.80
• Approval of FY23 Local Capacity and Buffer Grant Agreement

The Watonwan Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved paying $46,015.57 in bills, several well decommissioning contracts, and the FY2023 Local Capacity and Buffer Grant Agreement. They also moved the December meeting to December 19 due to a scheduling conflict. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved paying bills totaling $46,015.57 (4-0)
• Approved Local Capacity Grant well decommissioning contract 20-LCG-AW-02 ($437.50 cost share) (4-0)
• Approved GBERBA well decommissioning contracts WBIF-WW-21-83-25 ($600 cost share) and WBIF-WW-21-83-26 ($447.50 cost share) (4-0)
• Approved staff registration for 2022 BWSR Academy (4-0)
• Approved signing FY2023 Local Capacity and Buffer Grant Agreement (4-0)
• Approved amended GBERBA project contract WBIF-WW-21-83-13 (new cost share $18,211.93) (5-0)
• Approved moving December SWCD meeting to December 19, 2022 (4-0)
• Approved upcoming meetings list (4-0)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board is meeting to handle routine business, including a petition for road improvement, a grant agreement for septic systems, and a sonar quote for the sheriff's boat. A budget workshop will follow the regular meeting.

• J.D. #26 Petition for Improvement - initial findings and order
• 2023 Septic Treatment Systems – MPCA SSTS grant agreement
• Sheriff’s Department Boat – updated sonar quote
• NuWay anhydrous storage container discussion
• Training request – David Haler

The Board unanimously approved a petition to improve Judicial Ditch 26, appointing ISG, Inc. to conduct a preliminary survey. They also approved routine payments, grants, personnel actions, and equipment purchases. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved petition to improve Judicial Ditch 26, appointing ISG, Inc. for preliminary survey (unanimous)
• Approved $290,438.39 in bills across General, Solid Waste, Ditch, and Road & Bridge funds (unanimous)
• Approved $18,600 MPCA SSTS Program Grant Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved sonar equipment purchase from Amazon for $4,580.43 (unanimous)
• Approved annual pay step increases for James Hodge, Brandon Sprenger, Jarred Urban, and Rebecca Senf (unanimous)
• Accepted resignations of Jennifer Sanchez and Stephen Ferrazzano, III (unanimous)
• Approved advertising for Transit Office Clerk and Dispatcher positions (unanimous)
• Approved training pay of $1.00/hr for Dispatcher Michelle Perez (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Human Services Board is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes routine items such as approving minutes, a presentation on income maintenance, and director updates. The board will also discuss personnel matters, including pay-for-performance for four staff members, granting permanent status to one employee, and accepting a resignation, as well as a contract with First Net.

• Pay for Performance for Kim Giese, Katy Goldschmidt, Amy Pluym, Sharon Werth
• End of probation/permanent status for Macee Krumwiede
• Resignation of Tina Guth
• Contract/agreement with First Net
• Income maintenance presentation by Jodi Halvorson

The board approved a $2,664 agreement with AT&T for the IBM MaaS360 platform to secure mobile devices, with costs split with the IT department. They also approved pay-for-performance for four staff, permanent status for one employee, and accepted a resignation. Monthly financial claims totaling over $226,000 were approved.

• Approved AT&T IBM MaaS360 agreement for $2,664, split with IT (unanimous)
• Approved Pay for Performance for Amy Pluym, Kim Giese, Katy Goldschmidt, Sharon Werth (unanimous)
• Approved End of Probation to Permanent Status for Macee Krumwiede (unanimous)
• Approved Resignation in good standing of Tina Guth (unanimous)
• Approved monthly claims totaling $226,443.08 and credit card payments of $7,161.30 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 20, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will consider routine administrative items including approving a final payment to Duininck, Inc. for road work, authorizing the sale of a 2007 Audi A4 and a lawnmower on Minnbid, and discussing a chip spreader opportunity with Waseca County. The board will also hold a closed session for attorney-client privilege regarding an HRA County ODA matter and consider a resolution for GO bonds.

• Final payment of $133,517.51 to Duininck, Inc. for S.P. 083-070-014/S.A.P. 083-610-041
• Authorize sale on Minnbid of 2007 Audi A4 and lawnmower
• Chip spreader opportunity with Waseca County
• Resolution authorizing issuance, sale and delivery of GO bonds
• Closed session for attorney-client privilege re: HRA County ODA

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Watonwan County Soil & Water Conservation District board will meet to approve six cost-share contracts under the WWIMP Grant 41, covering well decommissioning, grassed waterways, and water/sediment control basins. The board will also review completed 2021-2022 contracts, consider a conservationist nomination, and hear reports from staff and partner agencies.

• Contract WBIF-WW-21-83-22 (J.S.): $64,672 est., $35,940.40 cost share for 4 water/sediment control basins
• Contract WBIF-WW-21-83-23 (J.S.): $17,505 est., $10,140.75 cost share for grassed waterway
• Contract WBIF-WW-21-83-24 (J.S.): $20,920 est., $12,348.00 cost share for water/sediment control basin
• Four well decommissioning contracts (P.B., S.FL, C.K., J.S.) with cost shares from $250 to $1,000
• 2022 MASWCD Outstanding Conservationist nomination discussion

The Watonwan Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors met on August 9, 2022, and approved all agenda items unanimously. They approved the amended agenda, July meeting minutes, treasurer's report, bills totaling $223.25, supervisor per diems, and upcoming meetings. The board also approved three well decommissioning contracts and three project contracts funded by WWIMP Grant 41, and agreed to let staff decide the Outstanding Conservationist nomination.

• Approved amended agenda (5-0)
• Approved July 12, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved treasurer's report (5-0)
• Approved bills totaling $223.25 (5-0)
• Approved supervisor per diems (5-0)
• Approved 3 well decommissioning contracts (5-0)
• Approved 3 project contracts including water/sediment control basins and grassed waterway (5-0)
• Approved upcoming meetings list (5-0)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will consider resolutions for TH 4 and CSAH Advance, and approve a dust control quote from Freeborn Co-op for $27,579. The meeting also includes presentations from the County Fair and Public Works, plus routine items like minutes, bills, and personnel.

• Dust control quote from Freeborn Co-op for $27,579 (alternative from S W Dust Treatment Inc. for $31,737.60)
• TH 4 Resolution
• CSAH Advance Resolution
• Canvassing Board for CD 1 on August 10th at 1:00 PM
• Training request for Lisa Schumann

The Watonwan County Board approved several routine items, including bills, training requests, pay step increases, and a dispatcher appointment. They also adopted two resolutions: one requesting MnDOT re-evaluate the 2023 TH 4 project to meet 10-ton standards, and another requesting a $1,033,129.99 advance from the County State Aid Construction Fund for highway projects. Additionally, they accepted a bid for dust control materials.

• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 19 regular meeting (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $97,724.71 across funds and credit cards (unanimous)
• Appointed Commissioners Melheim and Pettersen to Canvassing Board for Congressional District 1 (unanimous)
• Approved training requests for Deb Grote, David Haler, and Lisa Schumann (unanimous)
• Approved annual pay step increases for Jessica Suess and Andrea Wellnitz (unanimous)
• Appointed Daniel Estrada as Dispatcher, dependent on background check (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution supporting 10-ton route designation for TH 4 (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board is meeting in a special closed session under Minnesota law to discuss attorney-client privileged matters related to threatened litigation on a road project. No public action or decision is listed on the agenda.

• Closed session under MS § 13D.05, subd. 3(b) for attorney-client privilege
• Threatened litigation on a road project

The Watonwan County Board met in special session to discuss possible litigation with the County Attorney and Public Works Director. The board voted unanimously to close the meeting under attorney-client privilege due to threatened litigation on a road project, then reopened and adjourned without taking any other substantive action.

• Closed meeting under MS § 13D.05, subd. 3(b) for attorney-client privilege (unanimous)
• Reopened meeting at 10:30 (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 10:30 (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Human Services Board is meeting to review minutes, hear a children's social services presentation, and receive director updates. They will also discuss personnel actions including pay-for-performance for two staff and a retirement, as well as contracts with Minnesota Valley Action Council and purchases funded by a COVID-19 vaccination grant.

• Pay for Performance for Erin Marks and Jessica Veenstra
• Retirement of LeAnn Petterson, Financial Worker
• Purchase of 6 Public Health laptops and a medical grade refrigerator via COVID-19 Vaccination Implementation Grant
• SFY 2023 Master Agreement with Minnesota Valley Action Council
• SNAP Support Services agreement with Minnesota Valley Action Council

The board approved the June minutes, the amended agenda, and several personnel actions including pay-for-performance for two staff, a retirement, and a probationary appointment. They also approved multiple purchases funded by COVID-19 grants, including laptops and a refrigerator, and accepted a donation for children in crisis. Contracts with Minnesota Valley Action Council were approved, and the board allowed the agency to close for a staff workshop.

• Approved June 22, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved pay-for-performance for Erin Marks and Jessica Veenstra (unanimous)
• Approved retirement of LeAnn Petterson (unanimous)
• Approved probationary appointment of Anna Menssen (unanimous)
• Approved $9,339.18 for 6 laptops for public health (unanimous)
• Approved $2,648.03 for medical grade refrigerator (unanimous)
• Approved $200 donation from Albion Women for children in crisis (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Master Agreement with Minnesota Valley Action Council (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will consider a finance plan and resolution approving the sale of GO ditch bonds, along with a municipal advisory service agreement and disclosure agreement. The board will also discuss authorizing a part-time solid waste employee, a veteran permit-to-carry discount, a Hometown Café agreement, and the sale of a county vehicle. Miscellaneous items include minutes, bills, engineering estimates, and a gambling application.

• Resolution approving sale of GO ditch bonds
• Municipal Advisory Service Agreement with Northland Securities
• Authorization of part-time solid waste employee
• Permit to Carry discount for Veterans
• Authorize sale of vehicle on Minnbid

The board approved a $7.41 million general obligation ditch bond sale for improvements to Judicial Ditch 9 and 18, with bids to open August 15. It also approved a $139,331 county contribution to a broadband grant partnership with Christensen Communications, set veteran permit-to-carry fees at $30, and approved several other routine items.

• Approved $7.41M general obligation ditch bond sale for JD 9 and JD 18 (unanimous)
• Approved $139,331 county contribution to broadband grant with Christensen Communications (unanimous)
• Set veteran permit-to-carry fee and renewal at $30 each (unanimous)
• Approved creation of part-time Solid Waste Assistant position (unanimous)
• Approved jail meal increase from $5.50 to $6.50 per meal (unanimous)
• Approved advertising 2018 Honda Civic forfeiture for auction (unanimous)
• Approved ISG engineering services for Jail project at $750 (unanimous)
• Approved pay step increases for five employees and probationary completions (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Watonwan County Soil and Water Conservation District board will meet to approve the June meeting minutes, pay bills, and authorize several contracts and agreements, including a Pheasants Forever partnership and GBERBA contracts. They will also discuss reports from staff and partner agencies.

• Approve Pheasants Forever Local Partners Agreement
• Authorize GBERBA contract and payment, including $100 MAWQCP incentive for Lewisville Land LLP
• Approve GBERBA contract WBIF-WW-21-83-18 for well decommissioning, estimated cost $845, with $422.50 cost share
• Approve supervisor per diem for June
• Discuss staff and agency reports, including vacant Farm Bill Biologist position

The Watonwan Soil & Water Conservation District board approved the Pheasants Forever Local Partners Agreement, authorized a $100 incentive payment for Lewisville Land LLP, and approved a well decommissioning contract with GBERBA. They also approved the treasurer's report, bills totaling $51,981.33, and the amended agenda and prior minutes. All votes were unanimous (4-0).

• Approved amended agenda (4-0)
• Approved June 14, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved treasurer's report (4-0)
• Approved paying bills totaling $51,981.33 (4-0)
• Approved Pheasants Forever Local Partners Agreement for signing (4-0)
• Approved $100 MAWQCP incentive payment to Lewisville Land LLP (4-0)
• Approved GBERBA well decommissioning contract WBIF-WW-21-83-18 (4-0)
• Approved upcoming meetings list (4-0)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board is meeting to handle routine business including minutes, commissioner bills, and personnel matters. They will also consider a Public Works fee schedule, grant agreements for boat and water safety and TMT operating, and a Nationwide Indexed Principal Protection item. The Public Works Department will present a TMT Transit System Resolution and seek approval of a quote from Allstate for the Base One Project.

• Public Works Fee Schedule
• County Boat & Water Safety Grant Agreement
• TMT Operating Grant Agreement
• TMT Transit System Resolution
• Approval of Quote from Allstate for Base One Project

The Watonwan County Board approved a 2023 state operating grant for public transportation, accepted a bid for a joint gravel road stabilization project, and revised the Public Works Fee Schedule. They also approved routine items including bill payments, a boat safety grant, pay step increases, a promotion, and a 457b plan option.

• Approved 2023 Operating Grant Agreement with State of Minnesota for public transit (unanimous)
• Accepted Allstates Pavement bid of $130,475.66 for Base One stabilization project with Jackson and Cottonwood Counties; county share up to $56,446.99 (unanimous)
• Approved revised Public Works Fee Schedule, including $12/linear foot gas line permit fee (max $5,000) and reduced boring fee to $50 (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $131,553.62 across funds (unanimous)
• Approved Annual County Boat and Water Safety Grant Agreement with State for $640 (unanimous)
• Approved annual pay step increases for four employees (unanimous)
• Approved promotion of Greg Hruby to Heavy Equipment Operator with 30-day trial (unanimous)
• Approved Nationwide Indexed Principal Protection option for 457b participants (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Human Services Board will meet to review minutes, hear an adult social services presentation, discuss director updates, and consider personnel actions including pay-for-performance for four employees. The board will also review multiple contracts and agreements, including pharmacy and clinical services agreements, housing support agreements, and a policy on tuition assistance.

• Pay for Performance for Mary Colbenson, Julia Hoffman, Randee Nelson, Melissa Raddatz
• 2022-2024 Family Planning Special Project Pharmacy Agreements with Allina Health New Ulm Pharmacy, HyVee Pharmacy, Lewis Family Drug LLC, Madelia Health, Peterson Pharmacy, Randy's Family Drug Pharmacy
• 2022-2024 Family Planning Special Project Clinical Services Agreements with Madelia Health, New Ulm Medical Center, Sleepy Eye Medical Center
• SFY 2023 Housing Support Agreement – Group Setting with Community Options & Resources, Good Samaritan Society – Brandt Ridge, REM Heartland, Inc. (Amberfield Apt 1 & 2)
• Policy #47 – Public Health Tuition Assistance Program (Short Term)

The board unanimously approved multiple contracts and agreements, including clinical supervision, pharmacy and clinical services for family planning, housing support, and semi-independent living services. They also approved a temporary tuition assistance policy, a dissolution notice for a mental health collaborative, and accepted a donation for mental health awareness. All decisions were made unanimously.

• Approved Clinical Supervision and Program Management Services agreement with Jamie Rieser (unanimous)
• Approved 2022-2024 Family Planning Special Project pharmacy agreements with six providers (unanimous)
• Approved 2022-2024 Family Planning Special Project clinical services agreements with three providers (unanimous)
• Approved SFY 2023 Housing Support Agreements for group settings with three providers (unanimous)
• Approved 2022-2023 Semi-Independent Living Services agreements with two providers (unanimous)
• Approved Policy No. 47 – Public Health Tuition Assistance Program (unanimous)
• Approved notice of Collaborative Dissolution for Three Counties for Kids Mental Health Collaborative (unanimous)
• Accepted $596 donation from Lance and Tyrah Seidl for mental health awareness (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will convene for a regular meeting, starting with a personnel committee session. The main agenda includes a presentation by Ditch Inspector Carrie Schultz on a beaver control policy, followed by routine administrative items such as approving minutes, bills, financial reports, and a public works fee schedule. The board will also consider resolutions for judicial districts #8 and #11, set budget workshop dates, and review training and personnel matters.

• Beaver Control Policy discussion with Ditch Inspector Carrie Schultz
• Approval of Commissioner, Credit Card and Auditor bills
• May Financials review
• Public Works Fee Schedule
• J.D. #8 W&B & J.D. #11 Resolution

The Watonwan County Board approved a Beaver Control Policy, adopted a resolution establishing procedures for compliance with IRS reimbursement bond regulations, and approved several personnel actions including appointments, resignations, and pay increases. The Public Works Fee Schedule was tabled until the July 5 meeting.

• Approved Beaver Control Policy (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution on reimbursement bond regulations (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $300,611.79 across funds (unanimous)
• Approved May Disbursements listing (unanimous)
• Tabled Public Works Fee Schedule until July 5
• Approved pay step increases for David Haler and Connie Petersen (unanimous)
• Approved reclassification of Lisa Carlson to Appraiser I (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Sandra Engstrom as Dispatcher (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Watonwan County Soil & Water Conservation District board will review and approve several cost-share payments for conservation practices, including well decommissioning and erosion control, and discuss a cover crops policy. The meeting also includes routine approvals of minutes, bills, and per diems, plus reports from staff and partner agencies.

• Approve cost-share payments: Nelson Township ($1,000 grant), Riverdale Township ($1,000 grant), Mark Sill ($360 for well decommissioning), Klarice Rinne ($500 for well decommissioning)
• Approve GBERBA contract for Brad Asendorf: $26,849.76 cost-share for grade stabilization and WASCOB practices
• Discuss cover crops policy
• Approve meeting minutes from May 10, 2022
• Review treasurer's report and bills to pay

The Watonwan Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved a new cover crop policy, several cost-share payments for well decommissioning and noxious weed management, a grade stabilization contract, and a CREP outreach grant agreement. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved amended agenda (4-0)
• Approved May 10, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved Treasurer's report (4-0)
• Approved bills totaling $1,174.00 (4-0)
• Approved supervisor per diem (4-0)
• Approved cover crop policy (4-0)
• Approved $1,000 payments to Nelson and Riverdale townships for noxious weed grants (4-0)
• Approved $360.00 to Mark Sill and $500.00 to Klarice Rinne for well decommissioning (4-0)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will consider awarding two road construction contracts, set a public hearing on the Public Works fee schedule, and act on several liquor and tobacco licenses. The board will also review minutes, bills, and other routine administrative items.

• Award contract to Knife River for $1,148,719.53 for CSAH 12 & CSAH 13
• Award contract to Gallagher Asphalt Corp for $1,105,031.88 for CSAH 5, CSAH 7, CSAH 52, CSAH 13
• Public hearing on Public Works fee schedule
• On-sale, off-sale and Sunday liquor licenses for St. James Golf Course
• Tobacco license for Village Inn and liquor license for Watonwan County Ag Association

The Watonwan County Board approved two road construction bids: Knife River for $1,148,719.53 and Gallagher Asphalt Corp. for $1,105,031.88. They also issued several liquor and tobacco licenses, approved a county absentee ballot board, and accepted resignations and appointments. A public hearing on the Public Works Fee Schedule was held with no action taken.

• Approved Knife River bid of $1,148,719.53 for CSAH 12 and 13 projects (unanimous)
• Approved Gallagher Asphalt Corp. bid of $1,105,031.88 for CSAH 5, 7, 52, and 13 projects (unanimous)
• Issued liquor licenses to St. James Golf Course and temporary on-sale license to Watonwan County Ag Association (unanimous)
• Approved tobacco license for Village Inn (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution establishing County Absentee Ballot Board (unanimous)
• Approved sale of surplus furniture and equipment at public auction (unanimous)
• Accepted resignations of Dylan Meine and Daniel Rotert, and retirement of Dean Swenstad (unanimous)
• Approved hiring Bjorklund Compensation Consulting for pay classification review (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The board will meet for a special session to address administrative resolutions and a funding allocation decision. The meeting includes discussions regarding the CHS Administrator Resolution and the decision to decline an allocation from Third Path.

• CHS Administrator Resolution
• Decision to decline Third Path allocation

The Watonwan County Human Services Board met via teleconference and unanimously adopted a resolution appointing Barbara Salmela-Lind as the Community Health Services Administrator and agent of the Community Health Board, effective June 1, 2022, to handle communications, sign documents, submit grants, and approve invoices. The board also unanimously supported Director Naomi Ochsendorf in writing a letter to the Minnesota Department of Human Services to decline the Children's Mental Health Residential Service Path (Third Pathway) allocation. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted resolution appointing Barbara Salmela-Lind as agent of the Community Health Board (unanimous)
• Supported writing letter to decline Children's Mental Health Residential Service Path allocation (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The board will review previous minutes and discuss personnel matters including resignations and pay for performance. The meeting also includes committee reports and a public health presentation.

• Resignation of Jeremy Domeier, Licensed Practical Nurse
• Pay for Performance reviews for Stacy Green, Heather O’Malley, and LeAnn Petterson
• End of temporary appointment for Julia Whitcomb
• Permission to accept Child Protection donation from Stonecroft, Inc. – St. James Area Club
• Review of monthly financial/claims

The Watonwan County Human Services Board approved several personnel actions, including a resignation not in good standing, pay-for-performance raises for three staff, and the end of a temporary appointment. They also approved monthly financial claims, a contract amendment, and a donation. All decisions were made as recorded in the minutes.

• Approved resignation not in good standing of Jeremy Domeier, LPN (4-1, Miller opposed)
• Approved Pay for Performance for Stacy Green, Heather O'Malley, and LeAnn Petterson (unanimous)
• Approved end of temporary appointment for Julia Whitcomb (unanimous)
• Approved monthly financial claims totaling $227,978.57 (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Mental Health Client Assistance Program agreement with Southern MN Behavioral Health (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of $330.00 Child Protection Donation from Stonecroft, Inc. (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will consider a land plat, a feedlot agreement with Brown County, equipment quotes for the sheriff's office, and a tile repair discussion. They will also hold a closed session for attorney-client privilege regarding a Collateral Disposition Agreement. The public works department requests approval for a Bobcat purchase and a drainage tile crossing permit.

• Long Lake Acres Plat
• Feedlot Agreement with Brown County
• Lidar Quotes, Personal Breathalyzer Tester Quote, APX6500 Armer Radio Quote X 2
• Approval to purchase Bobcat Compact Track Loader from Bobcat for $78,902.10
• Drainage tile crossing permit for Audrey Unruh on CSAH 19

The Watonwan County Board unanimously approved a rezoning application from Long Lake Acres, LLC to rezone 9 acres in Long Lake Township from agricultural to rural residential (R1), and approved the associated plat for six residential lots. The board also authorized amending the feedlot technician agreement with Brown County, approved equipment purchases for the Sheriff's Department, and approved a liquor license for South Fork Golf, LLC.

• Approved rezoning 9 acres in Long Lake Township from Ag to R1 (unanimous)
• Approved Long Lake Acres Plat for six residential lots (unanimous)
• Authorized Land Management Director to amend Feedlot Technician Agreement with Brown County (unanimous)
• Approved equipment purchases: Lidar $2,125, breath testers $1,190, radios $8,854.50 (unanimous)
• Authorized auction of abandoned '94 Chevy van (unanimous)
• Approved Drainage Tile/County Road Crossing Agreement with Audrey Unruh (unanimous)
• Approved liquor license for South Fork Golf, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved office furniture purchase from River Bend Business Products for $4,546 (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Board of Supervisors will discuss the Cover Crops Policy and review various board reports. The meeting includes action items for approving GBERBA contracts and reviewing financial reports.

• Approval of GBERBA contract for Brad Asendorf with a total cost estimate of $49,902.90
• Approval of GBERBA contract for Bernetta Hesse for well decommissioning at an estimated cost of $900.00
• Review of 2022 Resolutions
• Discussion regarding Cover Crops Policy
• Approval of supervisor per diem and SWCD bills to pay

The Watonwan Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved an amended cover crop policy, two cost-share contracts for conservation practices, and routine financial items. No resolutions were brought forward for MASWCD, and several reports had no updates.

• Approved amended cover crop policy (3-0)
• Approved $6,983.14 in bills (3-0)
• Approved Treasurer's report (3-0)
• Approved grade stabilization contract for Brad Asendorf, $26,849.76 (3-0)
• Approved well sealing contract for Bernetta Hesse, $450 (3-0)
• Approved $100 fair booth rental for 2022 (3-0)
• Approved upcoming meetings list (3-0)
• Approved adjournment at 9:55 am (3-0)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The County Board will review the agenda and approve previous minutes. The meeting includes discussions on library appointments and personnel matters.

• Approval of $116,189.05 striping quote from Traffic Marking Services
• Second term library appointments for Ashley Tetzloff and Sandy Melheim
• Review of training requests for Karla Doll

The Watonwan County Board approved the low bid of $116,189.05 from Traffic Marking Service for annual pavement re-striping of about 114 miles. The board also adopted a master partnership contract with MnDOT, authorized the County Engineer to negotiate work orders under it, and approved a drainage tile agreement with Urban Neisen. Several appointments and routine financial approvals were also made.

• Approved $116,189.05 pavement marking bid to Traffic Marking Service (unanimous)
• Adopted MnDOT master partnership contract (unanimous)
• Approved drainage tile/county road crossing agreement with Urban Neisen (unanimous)
• Approved bill payments totaling $129,613.78 across five funds (unanimous)
• Appointed Ashley Tetzloff and Sandy Melheim to Library Board (4-0, Melheim abstained)
• Appointed Claire McGinty Barley as Assistant Library Director (unanimous)
• Appointed Dale Runge as Transit Bus Driver (unanimous)
• Designated ARPA funds as lost revenue for Public Safety salaries (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The board will review previous minutes and discuss agency updates including an ACES video presentation. The agenda includes personnel actions regarding pay for performance and probationary appointments.

• Pay for Performance reviews for four staff members
• End of probation and permanent status for Barbara Salmela-Lind
• Probationary appointment for Jeremy Domeier
• Review of Policy #15 – Policy for County Burial
• Review of 2022 Federal Poverty Guidelines and Social Services Fee Schedule

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board is meeting to consider a feedlot conditional use permit for Dominic Helget, conduct an annual feedlot review, and discuss ditch policy with the Ditch Inspector. The board will also handle routine business including minutes, bills, financials, a fairgrounds lease, donations, training requests, and personnel matters.

• Feedlot CUP - Dominic Helget
• Annual Feedlot Review – Amanda Lang
• Ditch Inspector policy discussion
• Fairgrounds Lease – Relay for Life
• Peacekeeper K9 Vest Donation

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Board of Supervisors is reviewing several cost-share contracts for practices including well decommissioning, grassed waterways, and water control basins. The board will also consider payments for the Prairie Ecology Bus and updates regarding GBERBA contracts.

• Approval of GBERBA contracts for Gary Dannhoff totaling over $165,000 in estimated costs
• Cost-share contract approval for Bob Cunningham for a grassed waterway ($3,410.00)
• Payment approval for well decommissioning for Klarice Rinne ($1,195.00)
• Payment approval for Jerry Noren's grassed waterway project ($3,740.00 actual cost)
• Approval of payment for Prairie Ecology Bus for the fair

The Watonwan Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved several cost-share contracts for conservation practices, including grassed waterways, water and sediment control basins, cover crops, and a well decommissioning. The board also approved payment for one completed grassed waterway and authorized up to 75% of the cost for the Raptor Center at the 4-H/SWCD Environmental Day. A motion to change the board meeting start time to 9:00 am failed for lack of a second.

• Approved amended agenda (4-0)
• Approved March 8, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved supervisor per diem as presented (4-0)
• Approved up to 75% of Raptor Center cost for Environmental Day (4-0)
• Approved cost-share contract for Bob Cunningham grassed waterway, $2,557.50 (4-0)
• Approved $2,475.00 payment for Jerry Noren's grassed waterway (4-0)
• Approved six GBERBA contracts for Gary Dannhoff (water and sediment control basins) (4-0)
• Approved GBERBA contracts for Ronald Thiessen, Kermit Carlson, and Mark Sill (4-0)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will hold a public hearing on commissioner redistricting and consider approval of a redistricting plan. The board will also decide on several public safety and public works items, including ordering new squads for 2023, accepting a federal boating safety grant, and purchasing bridge materials for $97,898.

• Public hearing and approval of county commissioner redistricting plan
• Approval to order squads for 2023
• Approval of $97,898 purchase of Eagle's Nest River crossing bridge material from Wheeler Lumber LLC
• Approval of federal boating safety supplement equipment grant
• Approval to auction Unit 11 – 1992 Ford F350 Flatbed

The board adopted a redistricting plan that changes commissioner districts 2-5, requiring all incumbents in those districts to run in the 2022 election. It also approved several purchases, including two police vehicles, bridge materials, and road sealant, and accepted grants for boating safety and election security.

• Adopted redistricting plan (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of two 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe 4X4 PPVs for $36,966.88 each (unanimous)
• Approved paying off $10,851.60 loan on forfeited 2016 Ford F-150 (unanimous)
• Approved listing 2016 Ford F-150 and 2014 Ford Explorer for auction on Minnbid (unanimous)
• Accepted $9,653.00 Federal Boating Safety Supplemental Equipment Grant (unanimous)
• Approved quotes for sonar ($4,529.97) and buoys ($1,230.20) (unanimous)
• Approved $97,898 for bridge material for Eagle's Nest River crossings using ARPA funds (unanimous)
• Approved bids for seal coat aggregate and bituminous material (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Human Services Board is meeting to review minutes, hear a children's social services presentation, and receive director updates. The board will also consider personnel actions, including pay-for-performance increases, probationary appointments, and a resignation, as well as a contract for mental health services with Avera McKennan.

• Pay for Performance for Jodi Halvorson, Lori Kuehl, Lori Sandmeyer, Nidia Zelaya
• End of probation and permanent status for Sandra Cuellar
• Probationary appointment of Macee Krumwiede as County Agency Social Worker
• Resignation of Emily Gehring, Family Based Service Provider
• Contract for Mental Health Order and Civil Commitment Beds and Services with Avera McKennan

The board approved multiple personnel actions, including pay-for-performance for five staff, permanent status for one manager, and probationary appointments for three new hires. It also approved monthly financial claims totaling over $212,000, a mental health services agreement with Avera McKennan, and a policy amendment limiting telehealth reimbursement to SUD services. A surplus freezer was offered to the local food shelf before listing on Minnbid.

• Approved pay-for-performance for 5 staff (unanimous)
• Approved permanent status for Barbara Salmela-Lind (unanimous)
• Approved probationary appointments for 3 staff (unanimous)
• Approved monthly financial claims totaling $212,261.31 (unanimous)
• Approved Mental Health Order and Civil Commitment Beds/Services with Avera McKennan (unanimous)
• Amended Policy No. 43 Telehealth to limit reimbursement to SUD services (unanimous)
• Approved selling surplus freezer, first offered to Food Shelf at half value (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Board will hear an introduction from the new DNR Regional Director regarding land management. The meeting also includes several resolutions related to multi-hazard mitigation, emergency communications grants, and public safety initiatives.

• Purchase of a new 12' mower trailer for parks
• MnDOT lighting agreement for intersections at TH 15 and CSAH 58, CSAH 3, and CSAH 6
• Watonwan County Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan Resolution
• Emergency Communications Board Grant Resolution
• Auction of a 2012 Ford F150 pickup truck

The Watonwan County Board approved the All-Hazard Mitigation Plan, making the county eligible for FEMA grants. They also approved a conditional use permit for a second residence, accepted IT contracts for security and backup systems, and approved various purchases and personnel actions. All votes were unanimous.

• Adopted Watonwan County All-Hazard Mitigation Plan (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use permit for second residence at 26077 680th Ave (unanimous)
• Approved $3,867/yr Check Point Smart-1 Cloud security system (unanimous)
• Approved $16,698 Unitrends backup service renewal (unanimous)
• Approved $3,150 purchase of 12' mower trailer from Zacs Sales (unanimous)
• Approved MnDOT lighting agreement for Highway 15 intersections (unanimous)
• Approved $33,367 Motorola APX consolette from Alpha Wireless (unanimous)
• Approved $15,087 Emergency Communications Board grant (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Board of Supervisors will review the treasurer's report, approve meeting minutes from February 22, 2022, and discuss various board reports. The meeting includes discussions on staff updates and upcoming local working group meetings.

• Contract and payment authorization for GBERBA
• MAWQCP Incentive payment of $300.00 to Gary Dannhoff
• Approval of February 22, 2022, meeting minutes
• Review of SWCD bills to pay

The Watonwan Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors met on March 8, 2022, and approved the amended agenda, prior meeting minutes, and payment of bills totaling $6.00. They also approved a MAWQCP incentive payment for Gary Danhoff and the purchase of donuts for the Local Working Group meeting. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely routine and administrative.

• Approved amended agenda (3-0)
• Approved February 22, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved payment of bills in the amount of $6.00 (3-0)
• Approved MAWQCP incentive payment for Gary Danhoff (3-0)
• Approved purchase of donuts for Local Working Group meeting (3-0)
• Approved upcoming meetings schedule (3-0)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will meet to handle routine business, including approving bills, ratifying a contract, and setting a redistricting public hearing. They will also consider quotes for election equipment, sheriff vehicles, and related equipment, as well as a fairgrounds rental and tobacco licenses.

• Ratification of MnCCC contract with TriMin Systems Inc.
• Election equipment quotes for DS450 and EMS system
• Redistricting public hearing scheduled for April 5th at 10:00 AM
• Sheriff surplus vehicle sale via Minnbid and new vehicle quote from Dodge of Burnsville
• Tobacco licenses for Darfur Lounge and Butterfield Municipal Liquor Store

The Watonwan County Board approved the purchase of a 2022 Dodge Durango Pursuit Package squad vehicle and related equipment, including installation, radio, and video systems. They also approved selling surplus vehicles at public auction, purchasing a Brushcat rotary cutter, and acquiring a new election tabulation system. All decisions were made unanimously.

• Approved $34,385 purchase of 2022 Dodge Durango Pursuit Package (unanimous)
• Approved $12,596.54 equipment installation quote from Mike's LLC (unanimous)
• Approved $4,427.25 Armer Radio purchase from Alpha Wireless Communications (unanimous)
• Approved $5,915 in-car radio/video system from WatchGuard Video (unanimous)
• Approved selling five surplus vehicles at public auction on Minnbid (unanimous)
• Approved $7,872.80 Brushcat rotary cutter purchase from Bobcat Company (unanimous)
• Approved $59,490 DS450 and EMS tabulation system from ES&S (unanimous)
• Approved scheduling Redistricting Public Hearing for April 5 at 10:00 A.M. (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Board of Supervisors is meeting to approve various financial items, including drone training and testing costs. The board will also consider cost-share contracts for cover crops and well decommissioning.

• Approval of TSA Invoice #341 for $3,550.00 grant cash match
• Approval for drone training ($1,495.00) and drone testing ($875.00)
• GBERBA contract for Wesley Beck (estimated cost $9,520.00)
• GBERBA contract for David Beck (estimated cost $8,182.44)
• GBERBA contract for Byron Christenson ($450.00 cost share)

The Watonwan Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved several action items, including staff drone training up to $1,495, drone testing for $875, and a two-night hotel stay for the instructor. They also approved final handbook changes, an audit engagement letter, and three GBERBA contracts for cover crops and well decommissioning. All motions passed unanimously except the audit letter, which passed 3-1 with Durheim opposed.

• Approved drone training up to $1,495.00 (3-0)
• Approved drone testing for $875.00 (3-0)
• Approved hotel for drone instructor for 2 nights (3-0)
• Approved final handbook changes (3-0)
• Approved audit engagement letter for 2021 audit (3-1, Durheim opposed)
• Approved GBERBA contract for Wesley Beck, $9,520.00 (3-0)
• Approved GBERBA contract for David Beck, $8,182.44 (3-0)
• Approved GBERBA contract for Bryon Christenson, $900.00 (3-0)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The board will review previous minutes and discuss updates from the Director. The agenda includes personnel actions regarding pay for performance, a probationary appointment, and a retirement.

• Pay for Performance reviews for six staff members
• Probationary Appointment of Maritza Lujan, Office Support Specialist
• Retirement of Teresa Teresa Cooling, Public Health Nurse
• South Central Community-Based Initiative Joint Powers Agreement review
• Adult Mental Health presentation

The board approved pay-for-performance for six staff members, accepted a retirement, and approved monthly claims and a joint powers agreement. It also elected a new citizen representative and discussed mental health services, COVID-19 response, and housing.

• Approved pay for performance for six staff members (unanimous)
• Approved retirement of Teresa Cooling, Public Health Nurse (unanimous)
• Approved monthly financial claims totaling $289,091.55 and credit card payments of $412.94 (unanimous)
• Approved South Central Community-Based Initiative Joint Powers Agreement (unanimous)
• Elected Nicolas Castillo as Citizen Representative for remainder of 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of January 19, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Board will review the previous meeting minutes and approve various administrative items. The agenda includes a closed session for an employee performance evaluation and discussions regarding public works equipment and DNR programs.

• Approval of Mack Truck quote from Nuss Truck
• Resolution to participate in DNR Aggregate Resource Mapping program
• HAVA Grant Application Resolution
• Closed session for Emergency Management/Safety Director performance evaluation

The Watonwan County Board approved the purchase of a 2023 Mack Granite truck and plow attachments, approved a two-year labor agreement with the LELS Detention Officer/Dispatcher unit, and authorized an application for a Help America Vote Act grant. The board also approved several personnel actions, including pay increases and a new hire, and set the Board of Appeal and Equalization for June 13.

• Approved purchase of 2023 Mack Granite truck from Nuss Truck for net $88,948 after trade-in (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of plow attachments from Towmaster for $134,097 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution requesting aggregate resource mapping by MN DNR (unanimous)
• Approved application for Help America Vote Act Grant (unanimous)
• Approved tentative two-year agreement with LELS Detention Officer/Dispatcher unit (unanimous)
• Approved annual pay step increase for Mark Nielsen after probation (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Tabitha Odegaard as Dispatcher (unanimous)
• Approved lease of Fairgrounds to Brown County Poultry for March 5 and April 2 (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Human Services Board will meet to approve minutes, discuss director updates, and consider personnel actions including pay-for-performance for seven staff members. They will also review contracts for youth placement and clinical supervision, along with monthly financial claims and committee reports.

• Pay for Performance for seven staff members including social workers, a nurse, and a financial worker
• 2022 Prairie Lakes Youth Program Contract for youth placement services
• 2022 Clinical Supervision contract with Southern MN Behavioral Health
• Monthly financial/claims review
• Next regular meeting scheduled for February 16, 2022

The Watonwan County Human Services Board approved pay-for-performance raises for seven staff, lateral transfers for two nurses, monthly financial claims totaling over $204,000, and contracts for youth programs and clinical supervision. The board also approved the prior meeting minutes and amended agenda. No substantive policy decisions were made beyond these routine approvals.

• Approved pay-for-performance for 7 staff (unanimous)
• Approved lateral transfers for Monica Cuellar and Karen Oviedo Ortega (unanimous)
• Approved monthly financial claims totaling $204,571.07 (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 Prairie Lakes Youth Program contract (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 Clinical Supervision agreement with Southern MN Behavior Health (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Dec 15, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board is meeting to hear updates from the court administrator, land management on aquatic invasive species lake reports, and the county assessor on joint powers agreements for assessment duties. The board will also handle routine business including minutes, bills, December financials, an ARPA update, training requests, and personnel matters.

• AIS Lake Reports presentation by Land Management
• Assessment Duties Joint Powers Agreements presentation by County Assessor
• December Financials review
• ARPA Update
• Training Requests for Karla Doll and Kelly Pauling

The Watonwan County Board approved new Joint Powers Agreements with multiple cities and townships for assessing services, and approved routine payments and personnel actions. The board also agreed to adjust household hazardous waste drop-off events based on staff recommendations.

• Approved Joint Powers Agreements with 8 cities and 12 townships (unanimous)
• Approved bill payments totaling $319,914.55 across funds (unanimous)
• Approved training requests for three staff members (unanimous)
• Approved annual pay step increases for two employees (unanimous)
• Approved pay step increase for one employee after probation (unanimous)
• Authorized HR director to advertise for pending resignation (unanimous)
• Approved disability leaves for two employees (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Watonwan County Soil & Water Conservation District board will meet to approve routine items like minutes, bills, and per diems, and to set 2022 policies including mileage reimbursement and cost-share rates. They will also vote on cancelling three well-sealing contracts due to expiring grants and approving new contracts for the same work under a different grant. Payments for two completed cost-share projects are also up for approval.

• Cancel well-sealing contracts for Leota Hall Trust, Randy Romsdahl, Hayden Fast (FY19 grants expired)
• Approve new well-sealing contracts for same applicants under WWIMP Grant 41 (up to $1,000 cost share)
• Set 2022 mileage reimbursement at $0.58 per mile
• Set 2022 cost-share rates: well sealing $400, rock intake $500, Hickenbottom intake $200
• Approve payment of $8,829.38 to Robert Reihs for water sediment control basin

The Watonwan Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved routine financial and administrative items, including $80,316.70 in bills, per diems, and 2022 board seats and committees. They set the mileage reimbursement rate at $0.58/mile, approved cost-share rates for well sealing and tile intakes, and changed meeting time to the second Tuesday at 8:30 am starting in March. The board also cancelled three well sealing contracts and approved new GBERBA contracts and cost-share payments.

• Approved $80,316.70 in bills (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 board seats and committees unchanged from 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved $0.58/mile mileage reimbursement for 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved well sealing cost share at 50% up to $500 per well (unanimous)
• Approved tile intake cost share at $500 per rock intake and $200 per Hickenbottom (unanimous)
• Approved changing meeting time to second Tuesday at 8:30 am starting March (3-1, Durheim opposed)
• Cancelled three well sealing contracts for Leota Hall Trust, Randy Romsdahl, Hayden Fast (unanimous)
• Approved three GBERBA well decommissioning contracts (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will organize for 2022 by electing a chair and vice-chair. They will also consider a road right-of-way quit claim deed, approve hiring for two public health positions, and address various administrative items including appointments, a vaccination policy, and a lake appropriation. Several resolutions related to the Watline Trail and a Safe Routes to School grant are also on the agenda.

• Road Right-of-Way Quit Claim Deed
• Request to post for Family Planning and Infectious Diseases positions
• Vaccination, Testing and Face Coverings Policy
• Kansas Lake Appropriation – Mountain Lake/Odin/Ormsby Area Sportsman’s Club
• Resolution to Maintain Facility – Watline Trail

The Watonwan County Board approved a draft Vaccination, Testing and Face Coverings Policy in anticipation of an OSHA mandate, with Commissioner Melheim opposed. The board also approved payments, appointments, resolutions supporting grant applications, and several administrative items.

• Approved Vaccination, Testing and Face Coverings Policy (4-1, Melheim opposed)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $137,172.04 across funds
• Ratified year-end bill payments totaling $30,258.12
• Appointed Bob Rinne and Jim Pettersen to South Minnesota Multi-County HRA Board
• Approved $3,700 payment for Kansas Lake aerator float replacement
• Adopted resolution supporting Safe Routes to School grant application for $250,000 sidewalk under viaduct
• Adopted resolutions supporting Watline Trail Stage II TAP funding application
• Approved amending Personnel Policies to allow jeans every Friday