Winona County public meetings in 2022

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will meet on December 27, 2022, to consider a consent agenda that includes adopting the 2023 budget, levy, and fee schedule, as well as approving various contracts and agreements. The board will also discuss and possibly approve amendments to timber harvesting and recreational cabin zoning ordinances, and receive a presentation on substance abuse prevention.

• Adopt 2023 Levy Resolution
• Adopt Resolution for 2023 Budget
• Approve 2023 Fee Schedule
• Discuss/Approve Timber Harvesting and Recreational Cabin Zoning Ordinance Amendments
• Approve Supervisor Association Labor Agreement 2022-2024

Road & Bridge Committee

The committee approved the October 18, 2022 minutes. Members discussed a proposed cattle pass policy and the committee's makeup, but no formal actions were taken on these items. Staff provided updates on winter maintenance and construction projects.

• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Approved October 18, 2022 minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit request by Becky Clark (applicant) and Mark and Angela Clark (landowners) to modify an existing animal feedlot to exceed 300 animal units, per Winona County Zoning Ordinance Chapters 8.4.6.2 and 10.4.6.1. The meeting also includes approval of the November 17, 2022 minutes and updates from the Board of Adjustment and County Board. The agenda is otherwise routine, with no other public hearings scheduled.

• Conditional Use Permit for feedlot expansion over 300 animal units (Docket # PC 12-15-22-01)
• Approval of minutes from November 17, 2022 meeting
• Updates from Board of Adjustment and County Board
• Appreciation of service by Kay Qualley and Planning Commission

The Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of a Conditional Use Permit for Becky Clark, Mark Clark, and Angela Clark to expand an existing animal feedlot beyond 300 animal units. The recommendation includes specific conditions regarding regulatory compliance and site inspections. The request will be considered by the County Board on January 3.

• Approved agenda (8-0)
• Approved November 17, 2022 minutes (8-0)
• Recommended approval of Conditional Use Permit for feedlot expansion to County Board (7-0)

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board will meet to approve minutes and consent items, hear a presentation on safe water for private wells, and receive updates on several grants including the Whitewater Drinking Water Protection grant, the 319 Nitrogen Reduction grant, and a BWSR Clean Water Fund application. The board will also review 2022 project accomplishments and recognize outgoing members Matt Flynn and Steve Jacob.

• Proposal for safe water for private wells – presentation by Jeff Broberg
• Whitewater Drinking Water Protection grant update
• 319 Nitrogen Reduction grant update – final report
• BWSR Clean Water Fund application update
• Bills payable totaling $3,791.85

The Board approved two cover crop payments under the Whitewater Drinking Water Protection grant. Members also reviewed updates on nitrogen reduction and well sealing grants.

• Approved minutes of October 20, 2022 (All Yes)
• Approved amended agenda (All Yes)
• Approved consent items and bills payable (All Yes)
• Approved two cover crop payments for Whitewater Drinking Water Protection grant (All Yes)

Board of Adjustment

The December 15, 2022, Board of Adjustment meeting has been cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services. The next scheduled meeting is January 19, 2023, at 1:00 pm. No agenda items are listed.

• Meeting cancelled
• Next meeting: January 19, 2023, 1:00 pm

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee will meet to discuss updates on jail, juvenile justice, and COVID-19 response, and review recommendations for improving access to mental health services. They will also review county needs assessment data and committee goals. The meeting is advisory, with no final decisions expected.

• Update on recommendations for improved ease in accessing Winona County Mental Health Services
• Juvenile Justice Update from sub-committee liaisons
• Winona County Needs Assessment data review
• Winona County COVID-19 Response Update
• Review of committee goals

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold public hearings on the 2023 budget, fee schedule, and transportation sales tax projects, and will consider a resolution requesting state approval for a local option sales tax referendum to finance a replacement jail. The board will also discuss and potentially approve the 2023 budget, special benefit tax levy, and compensation for elected officials and commissioners. Consent items include conditional use permits, contracts, and grant agreements.

• Public hearing on 2023 budget, fee schedule, and transportation sales tax projects
• Resolution requesting state approval of local option sales tax referendum to finance replacement jail
• Approve special election resolution
• Approve conditional use permits for Jeremiah and Kelsey Littmann, and Craig and Debra Spies and Jody and Ryan McQuin
• Approve contract with Port53 for Two-Factor Authentication Duo Licenses

The Board approved the fiscal year 2023 budget and a $100,000 special benefit tax levy for the Southeastern Minnesota Multi-County Housing and Redevelopment Authority. Commissioners also requested state authorization for a 0.25% local option sales tax to fund a replacement jail. Additionally, the Board set a special election schedule to fill a District 3 vacancy.

• Approved FY 2023 Budget and $100,000 special benefit tax levy (4-0)
• Approved request for 0.25% Local Option Sales Tax for replacement jail (4-0)
• Approved special election schedule for District 3 vacancy (4-0)
• Approved 2023 salaries for Sheriff, Attorney, Recorder, and Auditor-Treasurer (3-1)
• Approved 0% salary increase for County Commissioners for 2023 (4-0)
• Approved health insurance premiums for retired elected officers (4-0)
• Approved contracts with Sim Sound, Port53, and Safety Gal Consulting LLC (4-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permits for Jeremiah and Kelsey Littmann and Craig and Debra Spies and Jody and Ryan McQuin (4-0)

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

The Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P) Policy Committee will meet to approve meeting minutes, invoices, and recommended plan revisions. They will also discuss the format and logistics for an upcoming public hearing, and review next steps.

• Approve minutes
• Approve invoices
• Approve recommended plan revisions
• Discuss public hearing format and logistics

The Policy Committee approved recommended revisions to the watershed plan following a formal review. The committee also approved the October 3, 2022 minutes and current financial reports. A public hearing was scheduled for January 26, 2023, though a formal motion to finalize the format was not voted on due to loss of quorum.

• Approved minutes from October 3, 2022 (Unanimous)
• Approved financial report and invoices for Root River SWCD, Winona County, and Houston Engineering (Unanimous)
• Approved recommended Plan revisions following formal review (Unanimous)
• Selected January 26, 2023, as the Public Hearing date with January 30, 2023, as backup
• Selected Minnesota Technical College Southeast as the Public Hearing location

Winona WorkForce Development Board

The Winona County Workforce Development Board is meeting virtually to discuss workforce needs, hear reports from partner agencies, and consider a draft request for increased state funding for youth and adult workforce programs. The board will also receive updates on audits, staff changes, and regional labor data.

• Draft request to increase Youth program funding from $4M to $10M and Adult programs by $20M (statewide)
• MSC Southeast reports $2,250,000 construction contract for Red Wing campus 100 Wing renovation
• Youth program audit completed; adult program audit delayed to late December
• Board seeking new secretary; Naomi leaving
• Regional labor data presentation by DEED statistician Amanda O'Connell

Emergency Coordinating Committee

The Winona County Emergency Coordinating Committee will meet on November 22, 2022, at 8:15 a.m. The agenda includes updates from emergency management, public health, and the new jail/dispatch project, as well as discussion on 2022 meeting dates. The meeting is largely procedural, with no specific action items listed.

• Emergency Management Update
• Public Health Update
• New Jail/Dispatch Update
• Discussion of 2022 meeting dates (possibly virtual)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will consider routine consent items, including approving the 2023 meeting schedule, a special assessment, and several grant amendments. In general business, they will discuss remaining candidates for County Administrator, receive a 2023 budget update and provide direction on the 2023 levy, and decide whether to add future agenda items on Daley Farms litigation and the Road and Bridge Committee. The meeting will close with a closed session on labor negotiation strategies.

• Approve special assessment for 46937 Riverview Drive, La Crescent, MN
• Approve early ordering of Highway Department loader
• Discuss remaining candidates for County Administrator recruitment
• Receive 2023 budget update and provide direction for 2023 levy
• Approve/deny future agenda item on Daley Farms vs. Winona County litigation

The Board voted against offering the County Administrator position to Brian Anderson and tabled further recruitment discussions until January 2023. By consensus, the Board agreed to decrease reserves by 0.40% to reduce the 2023 Levy to 8.5%.

• Denied offer for County Administrator position to Brian Anderson (2-3)
• Tabled discussion of remaining County Administrator candidates until Jan 24, 2023 (3-2)
• Decreased reserves by 0.40% to reduce 2023 Levy to 8.5% (consensus)
• Approved 2023 County Board Meeting Schedule (5-0)
• Approved Special Assessment for 46937 Riverview Drive, La Crescent, MN (5-0)
• Approved early ordering of Highway Department Loader (5-0)
• Approved closed session for Daley Farms v. Winona County litigation update (5-0)
• Approved future agenda item to discuss Road and Bridge Committee makeup (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and consider two conditional use permit requests to place dwellings on parcels in the Agriculture/Resource Conservation District, including one on a former quarry site. The commission will also review proposed zoning ordinance amendments regarding timber harvesting and recreational cabins. The meeting includes approval of minutes and updates from other boards.

• Conditional use permit for Jeremiah and Kelsey Littmann to build a dwelling on 25.1 acres in A/RC district and Shoreland Overlay, with a 100-foot setback from Garvin Brook
• Conditional use permit for Jody & Ryan McQuin to place a dwelling in A/RC district and Shoreland Overlay on property owned by Craig & Debra Spies
• Public hearing on zoning ordinance amendments for timber harvesting and recreational cabin regulations
• Staff analysis notes the Littmann site is a former sand and gravel quarry with a 6.5-acre lake, and the dwelling would be at least 200 feet from Garvin Brook
• Approval of minutes from October 20, 2022 meeting

The Planning Commission recommended approval to the County Board for two Conditional Use Permits to build dwellings in Agricultural/Resource Conservation Districts. The commission also recommended approval of zoning ordinance amendments regarding timber harvesting and recreational cabins.

• Recommended approval of Conditional Use Permit for Jeremiah and Kelsey Littmann to build a dwelling on 25.1 acres (Yes-All)
• Recommended approval of Conditional Use Permit for Jody and Ryan McQuin to build a dwelling (Yes-All)
• Recommended approval of zoning ordinance amendments for Timber Harvesting and Recreational Cabins (Yes-All)
• Approved meeting agenda (Yes-All)
• Approved October 20, 2022 minutes (Yes-All)

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on two variance requests. The first seeks to allow a single-family dwelling on prime soils (Class II) instead of non-prime soils in the Agricultural/Resource Conservation District, for a proposed 5-acre split near County Road 113. The second seeks reduced setbacks for a septic system drainfield. The board will decide whether to grant these variances based on findings of practical difficulties.

• Variance to build dwelling on Class II prime soils (Docket # BOA 10-20-22-01) for Campbell family farm, parcel 14.000.1700
• Variance to reduce septic drainfield setbacks from 20 to 5 feet from house and 10 to 5 feet from property line (Docket # BOA 10-20-22-02)
• Proposed 5-acre lot split from 120-acre parcel in Section 26, Saratoga Township
• Staff recommends approval with conditions including permits for driveway, septic, and development
• Public hearing notice published October 9, 2022; no comments received as of report date

The Board of Adjustment approved a variance to allow a home on prime agricultural soils and a variance to reduce septic system setbacks. Both requests were approved unanimously following public hearings.

• Approved variance for Cortney & Mitchell Campbell to build a single-family dwelling on class I-III soils (Yes-All)
• Approved variance for Janessa Buddenhagen & Marcus Satory to reduce septic drainfield setbacks from 20 to 5 feet and property line setbacks from 10 to 5 feet (Yes-All)
• Approved the meeting agenda (Yes-All)
• Approved the September 15, 2022 minutes (Yes-All)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will vote on consent items including conditional use permits for D&D Dairy and the Campbell family, adopt an updated cattle pass policy, and renew several agreements including the Toward Zero Death Safe Roads grant and a mosquito abatement contract. The board will also discuss next steps in the county administrator recruitment process.

• Conditional use permit for Dean, Greg and Randy Smith – D&D Dairy
• Conditional use permit for Cortney and Mitchell Campbell and Thomas and Janet Campbell
• Adopt updated Cattle Pass Policy
• Renewal of grant agreement for 2023 Toward Zero Death Safe Roads
• Renewal of purchase contract with Driftless Region Vector Control LLC for mosquito abatement

The Board approved several administrative items including a Safe Roads grant and a mosquito abatement contract. Two conditional use permits were granted, and an updated cattle pass policy was adopted. The discussion regarding County Administrator candidates was tabled until November 22, 2022.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Cortney & Mitchell Campbell and Thomas & Janet Campbell (5-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Dean, Greg, and Randy Smith – D&D Dairy (5-0)
• Adopted updated Cattle Pass Policy (5-0)
• Approved 2023 Toward Zero Death Safe Roads grant agreement (5-0)
• Approved renewal of purchase contract with Driftless Region Vector Control LLC for mosquito abatement (5-0)
• Approved 2023 Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Septic System Program Grant Agreement (5-0)
• Confirmed payment of disbursements totaling $6,027,762.93 (5-0)
• Tabled discussion of remaining County Administrator candidates (5-0)

Winona WorkForce Development Board

The Winona County Workforce Development Board is meeting virtually to discuss routine reports and updates, including a possible collaboration on a U.S. Department of Labor nursing expansion grant of up to $80 million. The board will also hear reports on youth programs, career pathways, employment services, and labor market information. No formal votes are scheduled; the agenda is largely informational and procedural.

• Discussion of possible collaboration on DOL Nursing Expansion Grant (up to $80 million)
• Reports on Trade and Technical Career Night: nearly 50 students attended, 9 applied
• Update on upcoming state audit of Adult and Displaced Worker programs
• Board member recruitment and nomination form available
• Next meeting scheduled for December 7, 2022

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The Winona County Parks & Environment Advisory Committee will meet to receive updates on Stone Point, Farmers, and Apple Blossom parks, and to discuss member updates and 2023 meeting dates. The committee will also consider approving the agenda and minutes from the September 6, 2022 meeting.

• Stone Point Park update
• Farmers Park update
• Apple Blossom Park update
• Appreciation of Service for Dale Hadler
• 2023 Parks Meeting Dates

The Parks & Environment Advisory Committee approved the purchase of Zipventure Freedom equipment from St Croix Recreation Fun Playgrounds Inc for Farmers Park and selected red as the equipment color. The committee also approved the 2023 meeting schedule.

• Approved order of Zipventure Freedom equipment from St Croix Recreation Fun Playgrounds Inc (All Yes)
• Approved red color for Farmers Park playground equipment (All Yes)
• Approved 2023 meeting dates (All Yes)
• Approved agenda (All Yes)
• Approved amended September 6, 2022 meeting minutes (All Yes)

Economic Development Authority Board

The Winona County Economic Development Authority is meeting to review financial reports for July-September 2022, discuss the status of its revolving loan fund, and consider how to use the fund. They will also hear updates on housing studies in southeast Minnesota and the new online loan application process. The agenda includes routine approvals and member reports.

• Financial reports for July-September 2022
• Loan updates: current status of three revolving loans (Metz, Bluff Country Co-Op, Mueller)
• Housing in SE MN and housing study updates
• Online loan applications to Revolving Loan Fund now available
• Discussion on use of Revolving Loan Fund

The Economic Development Authority approved financial reports for July through September 2022. The board reviewed the transition of Revolving Loan Fund applications to an online portal via OpenGov. No actions were taken regarding changes to the Revolving Loan Fund.

• Approved agenda (Yes-All)
• Approved July 28, 2022 meeting minutes (Yes-All)
• Approved July-September 2022 financial reports (Yes-All)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board is meeting to consider several administrative items, including a presentation on options for an interim dog kennel zoning ordinance, and to decide whether to add future agenda items regarding citizen volunteer committee makeup and a letter to the City of Winona about the police department staying at the Law Enforcement Center. The board will also vote on consent items such as a bridge construction bid award and a regional 911 phone system agreement.

• Award bid for Runaway Road and Cocker Drive township bridge replacements to Minnowa Construction
• Approve memorandum of understanding for regional 911 phone system
• Approve gambling application for exempt permit for Winona/Root River PF
• Discuss options for interim dog kennel zoning ordinance
• Consider future agenda item on invitation letter to City of Winona regarding police department at Law Enforcement Center

The Board decided not to pursue an interim zoning ordinance moratorium for dog breeding facilities, instead directing staff to conduct a study by February 2023. Other actions included awarding a bridge replacement contract and accepting over $13,000 in donations.

• Denied interim zoning ordinance moratorium for dog breeding facilities; directed staff to conduct study by February 2023 (4-1)
• Awarded bid for Runaway Road and Cocker Drive Township Bridge Replacements to Minnowa Construction (5-0)
• Accepted $13,299.33 in donations from 7/1/2022-9/30/2022 (5-0)
• Approved Memorandum of Understanding for Regional 911 Phone System (5-0)
• Approved LG220 Gambling Application for Exempt Permit-Winona/Root River PF (5-0)
• Approved USI Consulting Group/HILDI Agreement for Post-Employment Benefit Valuation Report (5-0)
• Confirmed payment of disbursements totaling $4,570,461.69 (5-0)
• Approved future agenda item to consider invitation letter to City of Winona regarding police department location (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit for D&D Dairy to expand its feedlot in Hart Township from 978.6 to 1,477.8 animal units, including new manure storage, feed storage, and barn additions. The commission will also consider a separate permit for a single-family dwelling on less than 40 acres in the Agricultural/Resource Conservation District, and continue discussion on a recreational cabin ordinance. The agenda includes only these items, with no other substantive business.

• Conditional use permit for D&D Dairy feedlot expansion to 1,477.8 animal units (Docket # PC 09-15-22-01)
• Proposed construction: 600' x 300' x 18' manure storage basin, 370' x 250' feed storage, 235' x 180' barn addition, and 20,000 sq.ft. parlor
• Conditional use permit for single-family dwelling on less than 40 acres (Docket # PC 10-20-22-01)
• Continued discussion on recreational cabin/seasonal dwelling ordinance
• Hart Township Board has no comments on the feedlot expansion

The Winona County Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of a Conditional Use Permit for D&D Dairy to expand its feedlot from 699 to 1,052 mature dairy cows plus 25 calves. The Commission also recommended approval of a CUP for a single-family dwelling on less than 40 acres, contingent on a variance from the Board of Adjustment. Additionally, the Commission voted to initiate a zoning amendment process for recreational cabin and timber harvesting ordinances.

• Recommended approval of D&D Dairy feedlot expansion CUP (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Campbell single-family dwelling CUP, contingent on variance (unanimous)
• Voted to initiate zoning amendment process for recreational cabin and timber harvesting ordinances (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and September 15, 2022 minutes (unanimous)

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board will review the 2021 audit, discuss updates on drinking water protection and nitrogen reduction grants, and consider a septic system upgrade contract. The meeting includes routine approvals of minutes, agenda, and consent items, along with board and agency reports.

• 2021 audit review and approval
• Septic system upgrade contract under Whitewater Drinking Water Protection grant
• 319 Nitrogen Reduction grant update
• Local Advisory Team (MDA) grant update
• Bills payable totaling $4,271.39

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board approved a septic system upgrade contract for low-income homeowners with failing systems, using Drinking Water Protection Grant funds. The board also approved minutes, agenda, consent items with amended bills totaling $35,905.15, and received updates on cover crop programs and grants. No public comments were made.

• Approved minutes of August 18, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent items with amended bills payable total of $35,905.15 (unanimous)
• Approved septic system upgrade contract for low-income homeowners (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The October 20, 2022, Board of Adjustment meeting was cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services due to lack of a quorum. The next scheduled meeting is November 17, 2022, at 1:00 pm. No items were discussed or decided.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of quorum
• Next meeting scheduled for November 17, 2022, at 1:00 pm

Road & Bridge Committee

The Winona County Road & Bridge Committee is meeting to discuss updates to the 5-year Capital Improvements Program, possible policy changes regarding cattle passes and right-of-way acquisitions, and maintenance and construction updates. They will also consider several specific road projects, including a possible reconstruction of CSAH 37 and signage/drainage concerns on CSAH 3.

• Update to 5-year Road & Bridge Capital Improvements Program
• Possible policy update on cattle passes
• CSAH 37 'Fabian Corner' possible reconstruction with 2024-2025 paving project
• CSAH 3 'Charlie Boy' hill signage and drainage concerns
• Right-of-way acquisitions: concept of paying 1.3 times market value instead of 1.0

The Road & Bridge Committee voted 4-1 to recommend a policy change allowing the county to remove unused cattle passes with landowner permission or when both sides of the road are no longer under common ownership. The motion passed with Commissioners Jacob, staff members Kramer, Fort, and Drath voting yes, and Commissioner Ward voting no due to legal concerns. Staff will request a county attorney review before the full board considers the change. The committee also approved the amended agenda and August minutes unanimously, and discussed updates to the 5-year CIP, noting 25-30% price increases.

• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Approved August 16, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended cattle pass policy change to full board (4-1)
• Accepted bids for township road bridges on Runaway Road and Cocker Drive
• Removed CSAH 3 'Charlie Boy' hill signage/drainage and Elba/St. Charles reconfiguration from old business list

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board is meeting to handle routine business including approving minutes, consent items, and receiving reports. Key items include a report from the State Auditor on the 2021 audit, a discussion on activating a 'Vote Cast Record' mechanism in voting machines, and approval of several grant agreements and payments. The agenda is largely procedural with no major policy decisions.

• Receive report from State Auditor regarding 2021 audit
• Discuss activating 'Vote Cast Record' mechanism in voting machines
• Approve Submittable Renewal Agreement for Grant Software
• Approve Minnesota Department of Health Community Health Board Grant Project Agreement for State Health Improvement Partnership
• Approve 2023 Towards Zero Deaths Enforcement Single Traffic Safety Officer Grant Agreement

The board approved activating the cast vote record for the November 8, 2022 election by a 3-2 vote. Consent business was approved unanimously, including a resolution to cancel stale warrant-checks from 2019 and multiple grant agreements. Reports were received from state auditors, the medical examiner's office, and finance. Two future agenda items were added for the October 25 meeting.

• Approved activating cast vote record for Nov. 8 election (3-2)
• Approved consent business including cancellation of stale warrant-checks (5-0)
• Approved Submittable Renewal Agreement for Grant Software (5-0)
• Approved Minnesota Department of Health Community Health Board Grant (5-0)
• Approved amendment to extend 2020 SSTS Upgrade Aid Agreement deadline to Dec. 31, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved 2023 Towards Zero Deaths Traffic Safety Officer Grant (5-0)
• Added future agenda item to review citizen volunteer committee makeup (5-0)
• Added future agenda item to consider letter to City of Winona about police department location (5-0)

Winona WorkForce Development Board

The Winona County Workforce Development Board met virtually to hear reports from partner agencies and discuss workforce programs. A $1,000,000 grant from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development was announced for the Main Street Economic Revitalization Program, covering property repairs and redevelopment from Huff Street to Franklin Street and Fifth Street to the Riverfront. The board also discussed a potential DOL Nursing Expansion grant application and received updates on youth programs, career pathways, and employment services.

• $1,000,000 DEED grant for Main Street Economic Revitalization Program (Huff to Franklin, Fifth to Riverfront)
• 152 clients served by Winona Community Based Agency, 20 on waiting list
• DOL Nursing Expansion grant up to $80 million discussed for possible collaboration
• PY20 final financial reports submitted; youth report pending approval
• Board member recruitment via nomination form

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

The Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P) Policy Committee is meeting to approve minutes and invoices, discuss internal review revisions, and approve the plan for formal review. They will also receive an update on the Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) and outline next steps for the formal review process.

• Approve minutes and invoices
• Approve plan for Formal Review
• Update on JPA
• Discuss Formal Review process

The WinLaC Partnership Policy Committee unanimously approved the draft One Watershed, One Plan for a 60-day formal review period, with edits discussed during the meeting. The plan includes updated maps, clarified goals for water storage and phosphorus reduction, and revised project tables. No new invoices were received, and the financial report was approved. The committee also discussed a draft Joint Powers Agreement, which will be reviewed by county and city attorneys.

• Approved minutes of August 8, 2022, unanimously
• Approved financial report with no change since last meeting, unanimously
• Approved draft One Watershed, One Plan for 60-day formal review, with discussed edits, unanimously
• Elevated Gorman Creek watershed priority from medium to high based on new dissolved oxygen data
• Moved Gilmore, Burns Valley, and Pleasant Valley Creeks from 'Education and Outreach' to 'Protection' in stream priority maps
• Kept Lake Winona total phosphorus reduction goal at 15%
• Deleted capital improvement projects lacking adequate detail, with option to add later
• Adjourned meeting at 11:05 AM

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will consider routine consent items, including contract renewals and final payments for road projects, and will discuss or approve several policy items: the 2023 citizen advisory committee process, a resolution setting the preliminary levy, a review of commission fees, and a policy for public funds given to outside entities. The board will also decide whether to add a future agenda item about activating a 'Vote Cast Record' mechanism in voting machines.

• Approve renewal of Family and Children's Center contract for child welfare targeted case management
• Accept final payment for 2022 Chip Seal Project and 2022 Highway Shouldering, CP 2208
• Approve agreement with Olmsted County for temporary inspection services
• Approve resolution setting preliminary levy
• Discuss/approve 2023 Citizen Advisory Committees process and timeline

The board approved a preliminary 2023 property tax levy of $26,077,240, with a 3-2 vote (Ward and Jacob opposed). They also approved several consent items, including contracts for child welfare case management, temporary inspection services, and final payments for road projects. The board scheduled a future discussion on activating a 'Vote Cast Record' mechanism in voting machines for the October 11 meeting.

• Approved preliminary 2023 levy of $26,077,240 (3-2)
• Approved renewal of Family and Children's Center contract for child welfare targeted case management
• Accepted certificates of performance and authorized final payments for 2022 Chip Seal and Highway Shouldering projects
• Approved agreement with Olmsted County for temporary inspection services
• Approved agreement with Megen Kabele for temporary septic technical inspection services
• Approved 2023 Citizen Advisory Committees process and timeline
• Approved commission fee schedule change effective September 27, 2022
• Scheduled future agenda item to discuss activating 'Vote Cast Record' mechanism in voting machines

Quarterly Emergency Management Meeting

This is a routine quarterly meeting of emergency management officials. The agenda includes updates from the Minnesota Duty Officer, EMS, and various agencies, as well as a recruiting committee update and discussion of elected officials training. No specific decisions or proposals are listed.

• Minnesota Duty Officer update
• Recruiting Committee update
• EMS update
• Elected Officials Training discussion
• Agency updates

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will consider a Conditional Use Permit for D&D Dairy to expand an animal feedlot beyond 300 animal units, though staff recommends tabling it pending an MPCA environmental review decision. The commission will also discuss proposed zoning ordinance revisions aimed at clarifying definitions and processes for recreational cabins, seasonal dwellings, variances, and CUPs/IUPs. The agenda includes approval of prior minutes and updates from the Board of Adjustment and County Board.

• Conditional Use Permit for D&D Dairy feedlot expansion over 300 animal units (Docket # PC 09-15-22-01)
• Discussion of zoning ordinance revisions for recreational cabin/seasonal dwelling definitions
• Discussion of consistency in variance/CUP/IUP re-application timelines
• Discussion of IUP renewals/transfers and fee waiver authority
• Approval of August 18, 2022 minutes

The Winona County Planning Commission voted unanimously to table a conditional use permit for D&D Dairy's feedlot expansion, pending a Minnesota Pollution Control Agency determination on whether an Environmental Assessment Worksheet is required. The commission also discussed potential zoning ordinance revisions regarding recreational cabins, reapplication after denial, interim use permit renewals, and variance relinquishment, but took no formal action on those items.

• Tabled D&D Dairy conditional use permit for feedlot expansion (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved August 18, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 8:45 p.m.

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on two variance petitions, both submitted by Jeff Jerue on behalf of property owners, to allow subsurface sewage treatment systems (SSTS) closer to property lines and structures than normally permitted. The board will decide whether to grant these variances based on findings of practical difficulties and consistency with county ordinances.

• Variance for Janelle Liebig at 185 Center Street to place SSTS holding tank 4 ft from property line (required 10 ft) and 4 ft from dwelling (required 10 ft), and absorption area 5 ft from structure (required 20 ft)
• Variance for William Koch & Kaitlyn Kimball to place SSTS holding tank 5 ft from property line (required 10 ft) and 5 ft from dwelling (required 10 ft)
• Both petitions include signed township forms from City of Dakota
• Public hearing notices mailed to 35 neighboring property owners; no comments received as of staff report

The Winona County Board of Adjustment approved two variance requests for subsurface sewage treatment systems (SSTS) in the City of Dakota, allowing reduced setbacks from property lines and structures. Both variances were granted unanimously with conditions, replacing failing systems with compliant ones. A motion to deny one variance due to inconsistency with the Comprehensive Plan failed 0-5.

• Approved variance for Janelle Liebig: SSTS holding tank 4 ft from property line (required 10 ft), 4 ft from dwelling (required 10 ft), absorption area 5 ft from structure (required 20 ft), 0 ft from property line (required 10 ft) — unanimous
• Approved variance for William Koch/Kaitlyn Kimball: SSTS holding tank 5 ft from property line (required 10 ft), 5 ft from dwelling (required 10 ft) — unanimous
• Denied motion to change Finding of Fact #2 for Koch/Kimball variance to 'not consistent' with Comprehensive Plan — 0-5

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee will meet to discuss updates on jail conditions, recommendations for improving access to mental health services, juvenile justice, and the county's COVID-19 response. The committee will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and set the next meeting date.

• Approve minutes from May 10, 2022
• Jail updates
• Update on recommendations for improved ease in accessing Winona County mental health services
• Juvenile justice update
• Winona County COVID-19 response update

The Winona County Health & Human Services Advisory Committee met on September 13, 2022, but took no formal votes or decisions. Members received updates on jail construction progress, mental health service access, juvenile justice prevention, and COVID-19 response. The meeting was largely informational.

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will consider routine consent items, receive a presentation on MnDOT's draft 10-year work plan, select finalists for the county administrator position, and discuss the 2023 draft budget in a working session. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major public hearings or controversial items listed.

• Select finalists for County Administrator position
• Receive presentation on 2023-2032 Draft 10-Year Work Plan from MnDOT District 6
• Approve Conditional Use Permit for Heather and Andrew Wobschall
• Approve renewal of purchase of service agreement with St. Charles Public School District 865 for foster care transportation
• Discuss 2023 draft budget in working session

The Winona County Board approved consent items including a $3.15 million disbursement list, a driveway policy update, and a conditional use permit. It voted 3-2 to invite all six county administrator candidates for interviews and 4-1 to keep the existing interview process. The board also appointed canvass board members and an Extension Committee member.

• Approved $3,154,714.63 in disbursements (5-0)
• Adopted updated Driveway Approach Policy (5-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for Heather and Andrew Wobschall (5-0)
• Invited all 6 county administrator candidates for interviews (3-2)
• Maintained county administrator interview process with decision on Oct 13 (4-1)
• Appointed Kovecsi and Olson to General Election Canvass Board (5-0)
• Appointed Sherry Soulier to Extension Committee (5-0)

Winona WorkForce Development Board

The Winona County Workforce Development Board is meeting virtually to approve minutes and consent agenda, receive reports from partner agencies, and discuss updates from the executive director, including a DEED monitoring report with improvement requests, board member recruitment, and a possible rebranding effort. The meeting is largely informational and procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• DEED monitoring report with improvement requests
• Board member recruitment and nomination form
• Board member handbook update
• Discussion on logo and tagline for the board
• Welder training opportunity

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The Winona County Parks & Environment Advisory Committee will meet at Apple Blossom Park to discuss updates on Stone Point, Farmers, and Apple Blossom parks, including a discussion on the location of a pavilion at Apple Blossom. The meeting will also include approval of the agenda and minutes from the July 6, 2022 meeting, as well as member updates.

• Stone Point Park update
• Farmers Park update
• Apple Blossom Park update and location of pavilion discussion
• Approval of July 6, 2022 minutes
• Next meeting scheduled for November 1, 2022

The Winona County Parks & Environment Advisory Committee voted unanimously to approve the 2023 garden plot rental fees for Stone Point Park, as presented by staff. The committee also voted to explore a specific pavilion location (option #2) at Apple Blossom Park. Discussion was held on pollinator grant work, pine tree removal at Stone Point Park, and lodge parking issues at Farmers Park, but no further decisions were made on those items.

• Approved the 2023 garden plot rental fees for Stone Point Park, as presented (motion by George Howe, seconded by John Howard; vote: Yes – All).
• Approved the agenda for the September 6, 2022 meeting (motion by Beth Stanford, seconded by Matt Neil; vote: Yes – All).
• Approved the amended minutes of the July 6, 2022 meeting, correcting a typo under the Stone Point Park update (motion by John Howard, seconded by George Howe; vote: Yes – All).
• Approved to explore pavilion option #2 at Apple Blossom Park, located closer to the parking lot (motion by Beth Stanford, seconded by George Howe; vote: Yes – All (5)).
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:00 p.m. (motion by Beth Stanford, seconded by Matt Neil).

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold a working session to discuss the 2023 draft budget, including a levy at 2022 levels and capital expenditures of $1,153,608. They will also enter a closed session to discuss a settlement agreement for a condemnation on County Road 129, followed by a regular meeting to approve the settlement and other consent items.

• Discuss 2023 draft budget with levy at 2022 level
• Approve settlement agreement for Parcel ID 120.151.530 County Road 129 condemnation
• Approve temporary on-sale liquor license for Thesis Beer Project
• Approve LELS 61 Labor Agreement 2022
• Discuss dog breeding facilities

The Winona County Board voted 3-2 to adopt an interim ordinance establishing a moratorium on future dog breeding facility permits, with a public hearing and legal options to be presented at the September 28, 2022 board meeting. The board also approved a settlement agreement for a condemnation on County Road 129 (3-2), approved the LELS 61 labor agreement for 2022 (4-1), and tabled a contract with EVOLVE for foster care medical histories until more information is available. Consent business was approved 5-0, including a temporary on-sale liquor license for Thesis Beer Project and an updated burial policy.

• Approved 3-2: Interim ordinance for a moratorium on future dog breeding facility permits, with a public hearing and options to be presented September 28, 2022.
• Approved 3-2: Settlement agreement for Parcel ID 120.151.530, County Road 129 condemnation.
• Approved 4-1: LELS 61 Labor Agreement 2022.
• Tabled 5-0: Contract and Business Associate Agreement with EVOLVE for foster care medical histories, pending additional information.
• Approved 5-0: Consent business including temporary on-sale liquor license for Thesis Beer Project and updated burial policy.
• Approved 5-0: County Board minutes dated August 9, 2022.
• Approved 5-0: Economic Development Authority minutes dated April 28, 2022.
• Approved 5-0: Amended agenda moving consent items 8.1, 8.4, and 8.5 to general business.

Emergency Coordinating Committee

The Winona County Emergency Coordinating Committee is meeting for routine updates from member agencies. The agenda includes emergency management training, a COVID-19 update from public health, and a status update on the new jail and dispatch center. No decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Senior Officials Training and upcoming trainings
• Public Health COVID-19 Update
• New Jail/Dispatch Update

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board will meet to approve the June minutes, consent items, and discuss several action items, including the 2021 draft audit and management representation letter, a 2023 Clean Water Fund grant application, and updates on the 319 Nitrogen Reduction grant and WinLaC planning. The board will also hear agency reports and set the next meeting date.

• Approve minutes of June 16, 2022 meeting
• Approve consent items including bills payable totaling $4,211.99 (County of Winona chargebacks and QTH.com domain renewal)
• Discuss and sign audit management representation letter and review draft 2021 audit
• Discuss 2023 CWF grant application and 319 Nitrogen Reduction grant update
• Update on WinLaC planning process and Local Advisory Team (MDA) grant

The board unanimously approved the 2023 Clean Water Fund grant application for sealing abandoned wells and authorized up to $30,000 for farmer tuition at Riverland Community College. They also approved the draft 2021 audit and consent items.

• Approved minutes of June 16, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent items including bills payable (unanimous)
• Approved draft 2021 audit (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Clean Water Fund grant application for abandoned well sealing (unanimous)
• Approved up to $30,000 for farmer tuition at Riverland Community College (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

This agenda is a cancellation notice. The Winona County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for August 18, 2022, has been cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services. The next meeting is scheduled for September 15, 2022, at 1:00 pm.

• August 18, 2022, Board of Adjustment meeting cancelled
• Next meeting scheduled for September 15, 2022, at 1:00 pm

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit request by Heather and Andrew Wobschall to build a new home on a parcel of approximately 10-12 acres in the Agriculture/Resource Conservation District. The proposal involves splitting their existing 15-acre parcel to sell their current residence to their son. Staff analysis indicates the request meets 8 of 10 approval criteria, with concerns about land use score and residential development pattern. The commission will also discuss a zoning ordinance update on timber harvesting.

• Conditional use permit for new dwelling on less than 40 acres in Agriculture/Resource Conservation District (Parcel ID 02.000.2740)
• Proposed parcel split: new residence on ~10-12 acres, existing residence on ~3-5 acres
• Staff recommends conditions including driveway access permit, septic permit, and deed notice of right-to-farm law
• Zoning Ordinance Update: Timber Harvesting discussion
• No August 2022 Board of Adjustment meeting

The Winona County Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of a conditional use permit for Heather and Andrew Wobschall to place a dwelling on a new parcel with less than the required acreage in the Agriculture/Resource Conservation District. The recommendation will go to the County Board on September 13, 2022. The commission also preliminarily approved minor revisions to the Timber Harvesting Ordinance to align with DNR requirements.

• Recommended approval of conditional use permit for Wobschall dwelling on undersized parcel (unanimous)
• Preliminarily approved revisions to Timber Harvesting Ordinance (unanimous)

Road & Bridge Committee

The Winona County Road & Bridge Committee is meeting to discuss construction project funding for 2023, including road condition concerns, inflationary cost increases, revenue trends, and a draft 2023-2027 Capital Improvement Plan. They will also consider a wheelage tax option and the 2023 levy amount for construction, plus updates on specific projects like CSAH 30 and CSAH 3.

• Draft 2023-2027 Capital Improvement Plan review
• Wheelage tax option discussion
• 2023 levy amount toward construction (budget line 03.300.320.6280)
• CSAH 30 reconstruction update
• Right-of-way acquisitions: concept of paying 1.3 times market value

The Road and Bridge Committee approved forwarding an updated Driveway Approach Policy to the Winona County Board for consideration. The committee also discussed several road projects, funding trends, and resident concerns but took no action on most items. The meeting was largely informational and procedural.

• Approved amended agenda to discuss CSAH 30 and CSAH 3 items earlier (unanimous)
• Approved February 15, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Forwarded updated Driveway Approach Policy to county board for approval (unanimous)
• Discussed but took no action on CSAH 3 'Charlie Boy' hill warning signs
• Discussed but took no action on Elba/St Charles township road configuration swap
• Discussed but took no action on offering 1.3 times market value for right-of-way acquisitions
• Discussed but did not pursue wheelage tax option
• Discussed desire to keep 2023 construction levy amount similar to previous years

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will consider several consent agenda items including conditional use permits for the Jacobs and Detweilers, a solid waste facility license for LRS of Minnesota, and a renewal of the Veterans Service Office grant. They will also receive updates on the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation and the 2020 State Audit Corrective Action Plan, and discuss the 2023 draft budget in a working session.

• Approve Conditional Use Permit for Steve and MaryAnn Jacob and Trent and Ashton Jacob
• Approve Conditional Use Permit for Allen Detweiler and Freeman Detweiler
• Approve 2022 Solid Waste Facility License Application for LRS of Minnesota LLC
• Approve Renewal of Veterans Service Office Operational Enhancement Grant Program Agreement
• Discuss 2023 Draft Budget – Outside Agencies and Capital Requests

The Winona County Board approved the Supervisor Association Amendment 2021 by a 3-2 vote, with Commissioners Ward and Jacob dissenting. The board also approved a conditional use permit for Steve and MaryAnn Jacob and Trent and Ashton Jacob (4-0, with Commissioner Jacob abstaining). Consent business included approval of conditional and interim use permits for Allen Detweiler and Freeman Detweiler, a Veterans Service Office grant agreement, a solid waste facility license for LRS of Minnesota LLC, and several other items. The board received updates on the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation and the 2020 State Audit Corrective Action Plan.

• Approved Supervisor Association Amendment 2021 (3-2)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Steve and MaryAnn Jacob and Trent and Ashton Jacob (4-0, Jacob abstained)
• Approved Consent Business including Conditional Use Permit for Allen Detweiler and Freeman Detweiler (5-0)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for Allen Detweiler and Freeman Detweiler (5-0)
• Approved Veterans Service Office Operational Enhancement Grant Program Agreement and Resolution #2022-39 (5-0)
• Approved 2022 Solid Waste Facility License Application for LRS of Minnesota LLC (5-0)
• Approved Application and Resolution for Proposal of Altura Well Sealing Grant #2022-40 (5-0)
• Approved Future Agenda Item to Discuss Dog Breeding Facilities at August 23, 2022 meeting (5-0)

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

The Policy Committee for the Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P) is meeting to approve the Targeted Implementation section as a working part of the plan and to approve the plan for internal review. They will also discuss the implementation structure for the plan. The meeting includes routine approval of minutes and invoices.

• Approve Targeted Implementation section as working plan section
• Approve plan for internal review
• Discuss implementation structure
• Approve minutes and invoices

The WinLaC Policy Committee approved the Targeted Implementation section as a working part of the watershed plan, approved the internal review timeline, and selected a collaborative approach for implementation. The committee also approved the July 11 minutes and two invoices from HEI totaling $34,469.00.

• Approved July 11, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved HEI invoices totaling $34,469.00 (unanimous)
• Approved Targeted Implementation section as working plan section (unanimous)
• Approved internal review timeline for draft plan (unanimous)
• Selected collaborative approach for implementation structure (unanimous)

Economic Development Authority Board

The Winona County Economic Development Authority will meet to approve financial reports for April-June 2022, review the status of its revolving loan fund, and discuss updates on a housing study funded by the American Rescue Plan Act. The board will also hear a specialist report and discuss a planned visit to Metz Creamery. No major decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Financial reports for April-June 2022
• Loan status update: 3 active loans totaling $255,000, with balances of $137,698.80
• Housing Study ARP Act approval update
• EDA Specialist Report
• Metz Creamery discussion

The Winona County EDA approved the April-June 2022 financial reports and the agenda and minutes. They discussed the ARP Act housing study, approving a lower funding amount of $42,500 (instead of $69,600), which will require additional 2023 funding. The study RFP is expected to go out before year-end, with completion in early 2023. No new loan applications were received, and no loans are in arrears.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April 28, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved April-June 2022 financial reports (unanimous)
• Approved $42,500 for housing study (discussed, not formally voted in minutes)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold a closed session to discuss a settlement agreement for a condemnation on County Road 129, followed by a regular meeting. The board will also consider several grant agreements, donations, and disbursements, and discuss the 2023 SEMMCHRA allocation and preliminary levy resolution.

• Closed session: settlement agreement for Parcel ID 120.151.530, County Road 129 condemnation
• Accept Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act Grant Award
• Approve Volunteer Nitrate Monitoring Network Grant Agreement with Olmsted Soil and Water Conservation District
• Approve 2022 State of Minnesota Federal Supplemental Boating Safety Patrol Grant Agreement
• Discuss/Determine 2023 SEMMCHRA Allocation and Approve Preliminary Levy Resolution

The board approved the 2023 SEMMCHRA allocation and preliminary levy resolution for $100,000 by a 3-2 vote, with Commissioners Kovecsi and Olson dissenting. All other agenda items, including consent business, grant agreements, donations, and disbursements, were approved unanimously. The board also nominated two commissioners to the August 9 primary election canvass board and scheduled a future discussion on dog breeding facilities.

• Approved 2023 SEMMCHRA allocation and preliminary levy resolution for $100,000 (3-2)
• Approved consent business including grants and donations (5-0)
• Accepted donations totaling $1,570 for Corrections, Public Health, and Police Dog (5-0)
• Confirmed disbursements totaling $1,801,040.26 (5-0)
• Nominated Commissioners Jacob and Kovecsi to August 9 Primary Election Canvass Board (5-0)
• Directed review of fee schedule and research on relief for affected family (5-0)
• Added future agenda item to discuss dog breeding facilities at August 9 meeting (5-0)

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

This is a summary of WinLaC Advisory Committee meetings from November 2021 through July 2022, documenting their role in developing the Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan. The committee reviewed and made recommendations on prioritized issues, measurable goals, implementation programs, and plan administration sections. The Policy Committee approved several sections at its July 11, 2022 meeting. Implementation activity tables remain in draft form and need further comment.

• Prioritized 34 watershed issues into Priority A, B, and C levels
• Divided WinLaC planning area into 26 subwatersheds (HUC-12) for prioritization
• Reviewed measurable goals for Priority A and B issues
• Policy Committee approved Measurable Goals, Watershed Implementation Programs, and Plan Administration sections on July 11, 2022
• Implementation activity tables for four planning regions remain in draft form

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a variance request from Allen and Freeman Detweiler to build a new dwelling on class II soils (prime farmland) in the Ag/Resource Conservation District, where dwellings are normally limited to class IV–VIII soils. The proposed 4.1-acre parcel in St. Charles Township would also include a welding/machine shop business and temporary living quarters, with a new home planned within five years. Staff recommends approval, finding the eight variance criteria met, and the board may impose conditions including a driveway permit from MnDOT. The agenda also includes routine items: approval of the agenda and minutes from May 19, 2022.

• Variance request (Docket # BOA 07-21-22-01) to build dwelling on class II Waukee Loam soil, prime farmland
• Proposed 4.1-acre parcel from 65-acre parcel in St. Charles Township, with access from Highway 14
• Includes welding/machine shop business and temporary living quarters, new dwelling within 5 years
• Staff recommends approval with conditions: development certificate, septic permit, MnDOT driveway access permit
• St. Charles Township Board has no comments; no neighbor comments received as of report date

The Winona County Board of Adjustment approved a variance (Docket # BOA 07-21-22-01) for Allen Detweiler to construct a new dwelling on Class II soils within the Ag/Resource Conservation District, instead of the required Class IV-VIII soils. The approval was unanimous (4-0) and included specific conditions, such as obtaining required permits and complying with driveway access standards. The board also approved the agenda and the May 19, 2022 minutes, both unanimously.

• Approved variance for new dwelling on Class II soils (4-0)
• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved May 19, 2022 minutes (4-0)

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three conditional/interim use permit requests. Two requests seek to allow new dwellings on parcels smaller than 40 acres in the Agricultural/Resource Conservation District, and one seeks to allow a welding machine shop. The commission will also consider staff findings and neighbor comments before making recommendations to the County Board.

• Conditional use permit for a 15-acre parcel in Whitewater Township (Docket PC 07-21-22-01)
• Conditional use permit for a 4.1-acre parcel in Whitewater Township (Docket PC 07-21-22-02)
• Conditional use permit for a welding machine shop (Docket PC 07-21-22-03)
• Staff analysis notes the 15-acre parcel has been tilled within the last 10 years, which may not meet criteria
• Neighbor comments included in the agenda packet

The Winona County Planning Commission recommended approval of three permits to the County Board: a conditional use permit for a new dwelling on 15 acres in the A/RC District (6-0), a conditional use permit for a new dwelling on 4.1 acres (6-1), and an interim use permit for a welding machine shop (6-1). All recommendations will be considered by the County Board on August 9, 2022.

• Recommended approval of CUP for dwelling on 15 acres in A/RC District (6-0)
• Recommended approval of CUP for dwelling on 4.1 acres in A/RC District (6-1)
• Recommended approval of IUP for welding machine shop in A/RC District (6-1)
• Approved agenda and minutes (all yes)

Quarterly Emergency Management Meeting

This is the quarterly emergency management meeting for Winona County, held at Ridgeway Community School. The agenda includes updates on recruiting, Gundersen Air, ARPA funds, and the Pickwick Bridge Project, along with agency updates and walk-ins. No decisions are listed; the items appear to be discussion and update topics.

• ARPA Funds Update
• Pickwick Bridge Project
• Gundersen Air
• Recruiting

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold its regular meeting, preceded by a Community Health Board session. The board will consider consent items including an interim use permit, a liquor license, a health grant amendment, and several highway project final payments. In general business, they will receive updates on jail construction and the May budget, and discuss the county administrator recruitment plan, courthouse roof options, American Rescue Plan fund requests, and a possible annual audit review.

• Approve Interim Use Permit for Harold and Lynn Brummer and Toby Brummer
• Approve LG214 Premises Permit for Rollingstone Fire Relief Organization
• Approve MN Dept. of Health grant amendment for Public Health Emergency Preparedness
• Accept final payment for SAPs 085-612-032, 085-635-009, 085-637-028, 085-630-009, 085-637-026
• Discuss/Approve American Rescue Plan Funds Grant Requests

The Winona County Board approved American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) fund grant requests by a 4-1 vote, with Commissioner Ward dissenting. The board also approved a recruitment plan for a new county administrator, authorized an investigation into long-term courthouse roof options, and tabled discussion on a commission fee for bank levy until the next meeting. All other agenda items, including consent business and routine approvals, passed unanimously.

• Approved ARPA fund grant requests (4-1, Ward no)
• Approved County Administrator recruitment plan (5-0)
• Approved investigation into courthouse roof long-term options (5-0)
• Tabled discussion on commission fee for bank levy (5-0)
• Approved consent business including interim use permit for Brummer and gambling permit for Rollingstone Fire Relief (5-0)
• Approved lease agreements with Leighton Broadcasting for emergency broadcasting (5-0)
• Approved to review 2020 State Audit Corrective Action Plan at future meeting (4-1, Jacob no)
• Approved disbursements totaling $882,236.55 (5-0)

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

The Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P) Policy Committee is meeting to approve working sections of the watershed plan, including measurable goals and implementation programs, and to discuss action tables and the implementation structure. The meeting is hybrid, held in person at Winona City Hall and via Zoom.

• Approve minutes and invoices
• Approve Measurable Goals as working section
• Review Action Tables and provide input
• Approve Plan Implementation Programs and Plan Administration and Coordination sections
• Discuss Implementation Structure

The WinLaC Policy Committee approved the Measurable Goals, Plan Implementation Programs, and Plan Administration and Coordination sections as working parts of the watershed plan. They also approved invoices totaling $4,441.96 and received updates on action tables and implementation structure options. No final plan was adopted.

• Approved minutes of June 13, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved invoices totaling $4,441.96 (unanimous)
• Approved Measurable Goals Section as working section (unanimous)
• Approved Plan Implementation Programs Section 6 as working section (unanimous)
• Approved Plan Administration and Coordination Section 7 as working section (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The Winona County Parks & Environment Advisory Committee will meet to receive updates on Stone Point Park, including the DNR Conservation Legacy Grant and an American Rescue Plan Act trails application, as well as updates on Farmers Park and Apple Blossom Park. They will also discuss 2023 meeting dates. The agenda includes cost estimates for a deck and signs at Apple Blossom Park.

• DNR Conservation Legacy Grant update for Stone Point Park
• American Rescue Plan Act Trails Application update
• Cost estimate for 10' x 10' treated wood deck with railing at Apple Blossom Park: $1,300
• Cost estimate for 'no dumping/camera surveillance' signs at Apple Blossom Park: $65
• Discussion of 2023 meeting dates

The Parks & Environment Advisory Committee approved the agenda and prior minutes, and voted to change its 2023 meeting schedule from odd to even months. It also approved using volunteer labor to clear vegetation at Apple Blossom Park's quarry overlook. Updates were given on Stone Point Park's DNR grant and ARPA trails application, which was later approved by the County Board on July 12.

• Approved agenda (all yes)
• Approved May 3, 2022 minutes (all yes)
• Approved volunteer labor for viewshed and vegetation management at Apple Blossom Park quarry overlook (all yes)
• Changed 2023 meeting months to even months (all yes)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will consider consent items including a professional services agreement with Korn Ferry for job classification evaluations, a resolution setting 2023 minimum salaries for elected positions, and several labor agreements. In general business, the board will discuss and potentially approve American Rescue Plan Act fund grant requests, appoint members to the Joint Airport Zoning Board, and decide on future agenda items regarding a state audit review and a bank levy commission fee.

• Approve Professional Services Agreement with Korn Ferry for Job Classification Evaluations
• Approve Resolution Establishing 2023 Minimum Salary for Elected Positions
• Discuss/Modify/Approve American Rescue Plan Funds Grant Requests
• Approve AFSCME Courthouse Unit Amendment 2022
• Approve WCHSEA Labor Agreement Amendment 2022-2024

The Winona County Board approved two labor agreements (AFSCME Courthouse Unit and WCHSEA) with 4-1 votes, established an Absentee Ballot Board, and confirmed $14,161,007.35 in disbursements. They also tabled American Rescue Plan Fund grant requests until July 12, 2022, and appointed commissioners to the Joint Airport Zoning Board.

• Approved AFSCME Courthouse Unit Amendment 2022 (4-1)
• Approved WCHSEA Labor Agreement Amendment 2022-2024 (4-1)
• Approved Amended Resolution to Establish Absentee Ballot Board (5-0)
• Approved $14,161,007.35 in disbursements (5-0)
• Tabled American Rescue Plan Funds Grant Requests until July 12, 2022 (5-0)
• Appointed Commissioner Olson and Meyer to Joint Airport Zoning Board (5-0)
• Approved Resolution #2022-33 setting 2023 minimum salary for elected positions at $8,000 each (5-0)
• Approved Resolution #2022-34 supporting Northern Grain Belt Port Statistical Area (5-0)

Board of Appeal & Equalization

The Winona County Board of Appeal and Equalization will meet to hear property owner appeals, review the assessor's 2022 report, and act on the assessor's consent change list and appeals. The meeting includes swearing in board members and electing a chair and secretary. The agenda is largely procedural, with the main substantive items being the appeals and the assessor's report.

• Property owners' appeals to be heard and acted upon
• Review of assessor's 2022 report
• Action on assessor's consent change list
• 2022 total county valuation $6,511,927,300, up 13.89% from 2021
• Farmland tillable up 10%, non-tillable land rate set at $4,000/acre

The Winona County Board of Appeal and Equalization heard one property owner appeal and approved the Assessor's Consent Change Request, reducing values on six parcels. The board also elected officers and adjourned.

• Elected Commissioner Jacob as Chair (5-0)
• Elected Commissioner Ward as Secretary (5-0)
• Rejected reassessment of Parcel 06.000.5481 to $500,000 (2-3)
• Approved reassessment of Parcel 06.000.5481 to $575,100 (4-1)
• Approved Assessor's Consent Change Request reducing values on six parcels (5-0)

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board will discuss and potentially act on the 2023 proposed budget, consider changing its meeting schedule from bi-monthly to quarterly, and receive updates on the 319 Small Watersheds Focus Program, the WinLaC planning process, and a Local Advisory Team grant. The agenda includes approval of minutes, consent items, and board reports.

• 2023 Proposed Budget discussion
• Discussion on meeting schedule (quarterly vs. bi-monthly)
• 319 Small Watersheds Focus Program update
• WinLaC 1W1P planning process update
• Local Advisory Team (MDA) grant update

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board voted to keep its every-other-month meeting schedule, deciding against a quarterly schedule. The board also approved the April minutes, agenda, and consent items unanimously. Updates were provided on grant applications and watershed planning, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved April 21, 2022 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved agenda (all in favor)
• Approved consent items including bills payable (all in favor)
• Decided to keep every-other-month meeting schedule (no vote recorded)

Board of Adjustment

The June 16, 2022, Board of Adjustment meeting has been cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services. The next meeting is scheduled for July 21, 2022.

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on June 16, 2022, to consider an interim use permit for Harold and Lynn Brummer to add a second dwelling on their 12.13-acre property in Norton Township. The dwelling would house a family member providing health care. The commission will also review an old business item regarding a conditional use permit for a dwelling on a 28-acre parcel in the Agricultural/Resource Conservation District.

• Public hearing on Brummer interim use permit for a 38' x 16' dwelling for family health care (Docket # PC 06-16-22-01)
• Old business: Doug Stanton conditional use permit for dwelling on less than 40 acres (proposed 28 acres) in A/RC District (Docket # PC 04-21-22-03)
• Norton Township Board supports Brummer permit (approved June 13, 2022)
• Staff recommends approval with conditions, including deed notice and annual inspections

The Winona County Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of an Interim Use Permit for Harold and Lynn Brummer to add a secondary dwelling for family-provided healthcare. The commission also received an update on a tabled petition by Doug Stanton, which remains tabled pending further work with the MN DNR and FEMA. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended approval of Brummer Interim Use Permit for secondary healthcare dwelling (5-0)
• Tabled Stanton Conditional Use Permit for dwelling in A/RC District (continued)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved May 19, 2022 minutes (unanimous)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board is meeting to consider a range of items, including a conditional use permit, multiple contracts and agreements, and policy discussions. The board will vote on consent agenda items such as a conditional use permit for James and Deborah Remlinger, a performance measures resolution, a snowmobile grant agreement, an election judge training contract, liquor license renewals, a MnDOT partnership contract, a highway shed replacement, a professional services agreement, a water contaminant removal cost share, and a dispatch center equipment lease. General business includes accepting a grant for prairie re-establishment, approving a treatment court agreement, receiving a budget update, and discussing virtual meetings policy.

• Conditional Use Permit for James and Deborah Remlinger
• Professional Service Agreement with DS Solutions for Online Election Judge Training
• Renewal of Liquor On/Off-sale Licenses and 3.2% Off-Sale Licenses
• Master Partnership Contract with MnDOT and Resolution
• Equipment Lease-Purchase Agreement with Motorola Solutions, Inc. for Dispatch Center

The Winona County Board approved a consent agenda including a conditional use permit, performance measures resolution, snowmobile trail grants, a MnDOT partnership, and various contracts. They also accepted a DNR grant for Stone Point Park prairie re-establishment with an added safety study, appointed Beth Sanford to the Parks and Environment Committee, and approved a virtual meetings policy. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved consent agenda including CUP for James and Deborah Remlinger (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2022-26 on performance measures reporting (5-0)
• Approved four snowmobile trail assistance resolutions (2022-27 to 2022-30) (5-0)
• Approved MnDOT Master Partnership Contract (Resolution #2022-31) (5-0)
• Accepted DNR Conservation Partners Legacy Grant for Stone Point Park with safety study amendment (5-0)
• Appointed Beth Sanford to Parks and Environment Committee (5-0)
• Approved virtual meetings policy (5-0)
• Confirmed $13,355,828.76 in disbursements (5-0)

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

The Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan Policy Committee is meeting to discuss and approve sections of the watershed plan, including priority issues, measurable goals, and implementation programs. The committee will also hear updates on the 'We are Water' initiative and a presentation on stressor identification work in the watershed. The meeting includes approval of minutes and invoices.

• Approve minutes and invoices
• We are Water update
• Waterside Chats summary of events and input
• Stressor identification presentation by Tiffany Schauls (MPCA)
• Approve Watershed Priority Issues as working plan section

The WinLaC Policy Committee approved the Watershed Priority Issues and Opportunities section of the plan, and also approved the minutes from April 11, 2022, and invoices totaling $15,645.11. The committee received updates on the We Are Water project, Waterside Chats, and MPCA's stressor identification work. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Watershed Priority Issues and Opportunities section (motion by Dewey Severson, second by Bill Rowekamp)
• Approved April 11, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved invoices totaling $15,645.11 (unanimous)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board of Commissioners will meet to review several department recommendations, including mental health service agreements and environmental contracts. The board will also discuss the continuation of public access through virtual meetings and consider adding items regarding animal unit caps to future agendas.

• Approval of purchase of service agreement with Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center
• Approval of Cooperative Environmental Health SSTS Mutual Aid Agreement with Wabasha County
• Approval of cost share contract with Teresa Stokes for well replacement
• Approval of cost share contract with Mitchell and Sara Stephan for water contaminant removal
• Resolution declaring a State of Emergency

The Winona County Board declared a local state of emergency due to severe weather on May 19, 2022, which caused flooding, road closures, and power outages. The board also approved a cooperative agreement for waste pesticide collection, a mental health services contract, and several consent agenda items, but failed to pass revised board ground rules. Discussions on virtual meeting access, animal unit cap, and Advocacy Center funding were scheduled for the June 14 meeting.

• Declared local state of emergency for severe weather (5-0)
• Approved revised County Board ground rules (3-2, failed for lack of 4/5 majority)
• Approved Mn Dept. of Agriculture waste pesticide collection agreement (5-0)
• Approved Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center services agreement (4-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved consent agenda including mutual aid agreement, monthly resolution, and $1,203,965.08 disbursements (5-0)
• Scheduled virtual meeting policy discussion for June 14 (3-2)
• Denied animal unit cap discussion for June 14 (2-3)
• Denied Advocacy Center funding review for June 14 (2-3)

Board of Adjustment

The Board is reviewing a petition for a subsurface sewage treatment system (SSTS) holding tank on a property in the City of Dakota. The request seeks to allow a 2,000-gallon holding tank to be placed two feet from a property line and five feet from a dwelling.

• Variance for SSTS holding tank setbacks at 740 River St
• Proposed 2,000-gallon capacity Al’s X-low holding tank
• Request to reduce property line setback from 10 feet to 2 feet
• Request to reduce dwelling setback from 10 feet to 5 feet

The Winona County Board of Adjustment approved a variance for Galen & Theresa Neuzil to install a subsurface sewage treatment system (SSTS) holding tank with reduced setbacks: 2 feet from a property line (instead of 10) and 5 feet from a dwelling (instead of 10). The approval was unanimous and included conditions requiring compliance with all regulations and obtaining a septic permit. The public hearing was opened and closed with no public comments.

• Approved variance for SSTS holding tank setbacks (2 ft from property line, 5 ft from dwelling) (5-0)
• Opened public hearing for variance petition (5-0)
• Closed public hearing with no public comments (5-0)
• Adopted findings of fact and approved variance with conditions (5-0)
• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved April 21, 2022 minutes (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is considering a Conditional Use Permit for James and Deborah Remlinger to operate a commercial business involving fuel and propane storage. The project includes building a liquid bulk fuel plant with up to 12 tanks and a propane tank area at the Warren Township site.

• Conditional Use/Interim Use Permit for fuel storage, distribution, office, and storage
• Construction of 9–12 fuel storage tanks ranging from 10,000 to 30,000 gallons each
• Construction of 2–3 liquid propane tanks ranging from 30,000 to 45,000 gallons each
• Proposed use of 5.56-acre parcel at 27053 County Road 12

The Winona County Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of a Conditional Use Permit for a commercial fuel storage and distribution facility on the Remlinger property, with amended conditions. The recommendation will go to the Winona County Board for final decision. The commission also approved its agenda and amended minutes from April 21, 2022.

• Approved agenda (8-0, 1 absent)
• Approved amended April 21, 2022 minutes (7-0, 1 abstain, 1 absent)
• Amended condition #3 to require compliance with MPCA rules and spill prevention plan (8-1)
• Recommended approval of CUP for fuel storage/distribution to County Board (8-0, 1 abstain)

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee will approve April minutes and discuss a Memorandum of Understanding for the Community Hub Program. The agenda includes updates on jail operations, mental health service access, and juvenile justice prevention models. Additionally, the committee will review the county's COVID-19 response and determine the date for the next meeting.

• Discussion of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Community Hub Program
• Update on recommendations for improved ease in accessing Winona County Mental Health Services
• Update on Prevention Services/Early Interventions Model for Winona County Juvenile Justice
• Winona County COVID-19 Response Update
• Approval of minutes from April 12, 2022

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold a public hearing and vote on the Remlinger findings of fact and petition for amendment, and also decide on a conditional use permit for Lavern and Judith Fritz and Scott and Lisa Fritz. The board will also consider several consent agenda items, including contracts for mental health services, fuel and aggregate bids, and a watershed funding agreement.

• Conditional Use Permit for Lavern and Judith Fritz and Scott and Lisa Fritz
• Public hearing and decision on Remlinger Findings of Fact and Petition for Amendment
• Award bid for annual supply of gasoline and diesel fuel to Consolidated Energy Co.
• Award bid for aggregate shouldering to Bruening Rock Products, Inc.
• Approve purchase of service agreements with Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center, Blue Sky, Inc., and Family Service Rochester

The Winona County Board approved a watershed implementation funding sub-agreement with Fillmore Soil and Water Conservation District (4-1), tabled a mental health services contract with Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center pending revisions, and approved the Remlinger findings and petition amendment. The board also adopted a resolution proclaiming May 11, 2022 as Law Enforcement Memorial Day and approved the 2021 feedlot program review.

• Approved Root River One Watershed, One Plan sub-agreement with Fillmore SWCD (4-1)
• Tabled Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center contract until revisions completed (5-0)
• Approved Remlinger Findings of Fact and Petition for Amendment (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-23 proclaiming Law Enforcement Memorial Day (5-0)
• Approved 2021 Year-End Feedlot Program Review and Annual Report (5-0)
• Approved County Board Ground Rules changes except chair rotation (4-1)
• Approved agenda item to discuss virtual meetings at May 24 meeting (5-0)
• Re-established May 24 meeting time to 10:00 a.m. (4-1)

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The Winona County Parks & Environment Advisory Committee will meet to approve minutes, receive updates on Stone Point, Farmers, and Apple Blossom parks, and discuss draft comments on the Solid Waste Plan. The meeting includes volunteer input on an overlook deck at Apple Blossom Park. The agenda is largely routine, with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Stone Point Park maintenance and garden updates
• Farmers Park updates
• Apple Blossom Park updates, including working group volunteers' input and overlook deck
• Solid Waste Plan Draft Comments discussion

The Winona County Parks & Environment Advisory Committee meeting minutes for May 3, 2022, contain only procedural elements, such as the meeting date and time, with no recorded decisions, approvals, or discussions. The document appears to be a placeholder or incomplete record, as it includes only DocuSign envelope IDs and a timestamp.

Economic Development Authority Board

The Winona County Economic Development Authority will review financial reports, loan statuses, and COVID-related business support programs from 2020-2022, including CARES Act and County Relief funds. They will also hear a presentation on census data and updated Location Quotients from DEED, and receive updates from CEDA and the Chamber of Commerce.

• Review of COVID business support programs: Fund 29 CARES Act 2020, Fund 28 COVID County Relief 2021, Fund 27 CLFRF 2022
• Presentation of census information and updated Location Quotient from DEED by Mark Shultz
• Update from Dusty Liston (CEDA) on economic development consulting
• Chamber of Commerce distribution of Fund 29 CARES Act 2020 and grant benefits info by Christie Ransom
• Financial reports for January-March 2022 and current loan status updates

The Winona County Economic Development Authority approved the amended January 27, 2022 minutes and the January-March 2022 financial reports. No new loan applications were received, and all existing loans are current. The board heard a presentation on population and labor force trends, noting a projected decline of about 5,000 residents by 2043 and a labor force shortage.

• Approved amended January 27, 2022 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved January-March 2022 financial reports (all in favor)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board of Commissioners will meet to consider several consent items, including highway project payments and a labor agreement amendment. The agenda also includes a presentation regarding the 2022 Sexual Assault Interagency Council Service Award.

• Final payment authorization for the County Road 129 Project
• Bid award for the 2022 Chip Seal Project to Scott Construction
• Approval of Local 49er's Labor Agreement Amendment 2022-2024
• Resolution recognizing County Government Appreciation Month

The Winona County Board approved the Local 49er's Labor Agreement Amendment for 2022-2024 by a 4-1 vote, with Commissioner Ward dissenting. The board also approved consent items including a bid award for the 2022 Chip Seal Project to Scott Construction, accepted donations totaling $1,694.23, and confirmed disbursements of $3,438,573.61. Additionally, the board directed staff to revise County Board Ground Rules for review at the May 10 meeting.

• Approved Local 49er's Labor Agreement Amendment 2022-2024 (4-1)
• Awarded 2022 Chip Seal Project bid to Scott Construction (5-0)
• Accepted donations totaling $1,694.23 (5-0)
• Confirmed disbursements of $3,438,573.61 (5-0)
• Approved resolution recognizing County Government Appreciation Day (5-0)
• Directed staff to revise County Board Ground Rules (consensus)
• Approved minutes of April 12, 2022 (5-0)
• Approved amended agenda moving consent item 6.4 to general business (5-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment is reviewing a petition from Rudy and Alma Miller to reconstruct a family home at 13449 CR 35. The request seeks to allow the new structure to sit 84 feet from the County Road 35 centerline instead of the required 100 feet.

• Variance request for 84-foot setback from County Road 35 centerline
• Reconstruction of a family home originally built in 1920

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three petitions: two requests for conditional use permits to place dwellings on parcels smaller than 40 acres in the Agricultural/Resource Conservation District, and one request to rezone a 5.56-acre parcel from Business & Recreational to Community Development 2. The commission will also receive updates from the Board of Adjustment and County Board. The agenda includes approval of minutes from the March 17, 2022 meeting.

• Conditional use permit for Scott and Lisa Fritz to place a dwelling on a 2.5-acre parcel in A/RC District
• Conditional use permit for Doug Stanton to place a dwelling on a 28-acre parcel in A/RC District, including Shoreland and Floodplain Overlay Districts
• Rezoning request by James and Deborah Remlinger (with Midwest Industrial Fuels) to rezone 5.56 acres from B to CD-2
• Approval of minutes from March 17, 2022 meeting

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board will consider approving its proposed 2023 budget with no increase in county contributions, and receive updates on the 319 Small Watersheds Focus Program, a Local Advisory Team grant, and a 319 Nitrogen Reduction grant. The board will also review consent items and financial reports. The meeting includes public comments and board reports.

• Approve proposed 2023 Whitewater JPB budget with no increase in county contributions
• Consent items totaling $4,507.07 including Winona County chargebacks of $3,940.88
• Update on 319 Small Watersheds Focus Program letter of interest
• Update on Local Advisory Team (MDA) grant
• Update on 319 Nitrogen Reduction grant

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board approved the 2023 proposed budget and the consent items, including bills payable. They also discussed updates on the 319 Small Watersheds Focus Program, with an interview scheduled for May 9, 2022, and agreed to add a discussion about meeting frequency to the June agenda. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved 2023 proposed budget (all in favor)
• Approved consent items including bills payable (all in favor)
• Approved minutes of February 17, 2022 meeting (all in favor)
• Approved agenda (all in favor)
• Agreed to add meeting frequency discussion to June 2022 agenda

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold its regular meeting on April 12, 2022, to consider consent items including conditional use permits for solar energy installations, road construction contracts, and election-related grants. General business includes a proclamation for Crime Victims' Rights Week, a monthly finance update, a temporary bypass for a bridge replacement, and discussions on election boards and potential space consolidation.

• Approve conditional use permits for Michael and Nicole Mades and Andrew and Cynthia Kronebusch with Novel Energy Solutions
• Approve professional services agreement with Bolton and Menk for CSAH 21 Gilmore Valley Road Project
• Award bid for project on CSAH 34 and Co Rd 127 to Dunn Blacktop Company
• Approve 2022-2024 Detention Center Inter-Agency Service Agreement with Houston County
• Discuss/Approve resolution to establish Absentee Ballot Board

The Winona County Board approved resolutions re-establishing county commissioner and Soil and Water Conservation District boundaries following state redistricting. It also approved two conditional use permits for solar projects, a temporary ATV bypass for the CSAH 7 bridge replacement, and several grants and contracts. A motion for a temporary full vehicle bypass for the bridge was denied.

• Approved Resolution #2022-15 re-establishing commissioner districts (5-0)
• Approved Resolution #2022-16 re-establishing SWCD boundaries (5-0)
• Approved conditional use permits for Mades and Kronebusch solar projects (5-0)
• Approved 2022 Help America Vote Act Grants Program Contract (4-1)
• Approved 2022 Voting Equipment Grant Agreement (4-1)
• Approved temporary ATV bypass for CSAH 7 bridge replacement (5-0)
• Denied temporary full vehicle bypass for CSAH 7 bridge replacement (2-3)
• Approved proclamation for National Crime Victims' Rights Week (5-0)

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss updates and potential agreements, including a Community Hub program memorandum of understanding, jail conditions, and recommendations for improving access to mental health services. The committee will also hear updates on juvenile justice prevention services, a proposed youth leadership council, and the county's COVID-19 response. No final decisions are listed; items are for discussion and updates.

• Community Hub Program overview and discussion for a memorandum of understanding (MOU)
• Jail updates
• Update on recommendations for improved ease in accessing Winona County Mental Health Services
• Juvenile Justice Update on Prevention Services/Early Interventions Model
• Discussion on creating a Youth Leadership Council

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee tabled a vote on supporting the Community HUB program until the next meeting, after a presentation by Vanessa Southworth. The committee also approved the February 8, 2022 minutes and received updates on the jail construction, COVID-19 response, and other items. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from February 8, 2022 (unanimous)
• Tabled vote on Community HUB support until next meeting (unanimous)

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

The Policy Committee is reviewing budget updates, invoice payments for HEI and Root River SWCD, and the implementation structure of the One Watershed, One Plan. The meeting also includes updates on the We are Water program and Waterside Chats event summaries.

• Review and approval of budget update and invoice payments (HEI and Root River SWCD)
• Discussion on 1W1P operational arrangements with MCIT Senior Staff Counsel
• Update on the Plan Issues Section
• Summary of Waterside Chats events and input received

The WinLaC Policy Committee met on April 11, 2022, and approved the agenda, minutes, and invoices totaling $10,706.87, leaving a balance of $19,110.66. The committee discussed updates on the We Are Water exhibit, Waterside Chats, and the watershed plan, including measurable goals and implementation. A presentation on operational agreement structures (contracts, MOA, JPA, JPC, JPE) was given, but no decision was made on which structure to adopt. The next meeting is scheduled for May 9, 2022.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes (unanimous)
• Approved invoices totaling $10,706.87 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:50 AM (unanimous)

Land Records Committee

The committee will elect a new chair for 2022 and receive status updates on the Recorder's Tri-Min software update. Members will also discuss implementing new technologies and review the Technology Fund.

• Election of a new Chair for the 2022 Land Records Committee
• Update on Recorder's software including $4,500 for three scanners and $1,760 for two licenses
• Review of Technology Fund balances and expenditures
• Discussion on ongoing development of new technologies to enhance land records
• Status updates on the Tax System and in-process projects

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold a closed session to discuss a settlement agreement for the condemnation of Parcel ID 120.151.530 on County Road 129. The board will also consider several consent items, including awarding a highway project bid, approving a solid waste plan, and other routine administrative actions.

• Closed session to discuss settlement agreement for County Road 129 condemnation
• Award bid for project on CSAH 29, Co Rd 106, and CSAH 14
• Approve 2022-2032 Solid Waste Plan and authorize public input period
• Approve temporary 3.2% liquor license for Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Department
• Approve LexisNexis agreement for searches for relatives of children in custody

The Winona County Board approved routine consent items, including a $1.94 million disbursement and a bid award to Dunn Blacktop for road projects. The board tabled a resolution to establish an Absentee Ballot Board until April 12, 2022, after initially tabling it and then reconsidering. A future agenda item to discuss rental space consolidation was approved.

• Approved County Board minutes from March 8, 2022 (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including gambling permit, liquor license, and change fund increase (5-0)
• Awarded bid for CSAH 29, Co Rd 106, and CSAH 14 to Dunn Blacktop Company (consent)
• Approved 2022 Solid Waste Hauler and Facility License Applications (consent)
• Approved draft 2022-2032 Solid Waste Plan and authorized public input period (consent)
• Confirmed disbursements totaling $1,942,657.21 (consent)
• Tabled resolution to establish Absentee Ballot Board until April 12, 2022 (5-0)
• Approved future agenda item to discuss rental space consolidation (3-2)

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for March 17, 2022, has been cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services. The next scheduled meeting is April 21, 2022, at 1:00 pm. This notice contains no agenda items for discussion or decision.

• Meeting cancellation notice issued by Planning & Environmental Services
• Next scheduled meeting: April 21, 2022, at 1:00 pm

Planning Commission

The Commission recommended approval of a Conditional Use Permit for a 1 MW solar project for Randy and Valerie Breyer and Novel Energy Solutions LLC. The decision included amendments to findings regarding property line distances and requirements for vegetative screening. A separate petition for a solar project by Michael and Nicole Mades was tabled for further review.

• Recommended approval of 1 MW solar project (Docket # PC 02-17-22-01) with new screening conditions
• Amended Finding of Fact #1 regarding potential burden on public facilities and utilities
• Tabled petition for 1 MW solar project (Docket # PC 02-17-22-02) to allow for supplemental materials
• Preliminary discussions on Zoning Ordinance updates regarding business and permit relinquishment
• Board of Adjustment approval of a subsurface sewage treatment system variance for Robert and Marilyn Hurt

Quarterly Emergency Management Meeting

The Winona County Emergency Management body met to discuss radio updates and COVID-19 status. The agenda included reviews of recent exercises and training sessions.

• ARMER Radio Update ARPA
• COVID-19 Update
• Accident/Radio Training
• ECN Exercise Review
• STOP THE BLEED-Medic 6

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

The Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan Policy Committee met to review informational updates on the draft plan. The agenda focused on the Priority Issues section, resource prioritization, and measurable goals developed by the Planning Work Group. No binding decisions or votes were taken on these items, which were presented for background and consensus building.

• Approval of minutes from the January 10, 2022 meeting
• Approval of invoices from HEI, Tau Center, Winona County, and Root River SWCD
• Overview of the draft Plan Priority Issues section
• Review of resource and subwatershed prioritization information
• Overview of draft measurable goals developed by the Planning Work Group

The WinLaC Policy Committee met on March 14, 2022, and approved the January 10, 2022 minutes and invoice payments. They received updates on the Plan Priority Issues section, subwatershed prioritization, and draft measurable goals. The committee also discussed implementation structures for the plan and requested a presentation from MCIT on liability. No final decisions were made on the plan's content or structure.

• Approved January 10, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and invoice payments (unanimous)
• Requested MCIT presentation on organizational structure liability

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will consider a conditional use permit for Randy and Valerie Breyer and Novel Energy Solutions, approve a fund transfer for uncompleted projects, and discuss a lease agreement with the Port Authority of Winona for 165 W. 2nd Street. The board will also discuss and provide direction for the upcoming county administrator recruitment. Consent items include a joint powers agreement amendment with Winona CareerForce and a professional agreement with TriMin Systems.

• Approve Conditional Use Permit for Randy and Valerie Breyer and Novel Energy Solutions
• Approve Amendment No. 1 to Joint Powers Agreement #PR 67135 with Winona CareerForce
• Approve Fund Transfer from 2021 to 2022 for Uncompleted Projects
• Approve Professional Agreement with TriMin Systems and Minnesota Counties Computer Cooperative
• Discuss/Approve Lease Agreement with Port Authority of Winona for 165 W. 2nd Street

The Winona County Board approved a salary range of $124,000-$175,000 for the County Administrator position. They also approved a lease agreement with the Port Authority of Winona for 165 W. 2nd Street, and adjusted a conditional use permit condition for a solar project. Several routine items were approved, including minutes, consent agenda, and fund transfers.

• Approved County Administrator salary range $124,000-$175,000 (5-0)
• Approved lease agreement with Port Authority for 165 W. 2nd Street (3-2)
• Amended CUP condition for Breyer/Novel Energy to require setback as far as feasible from east property line (5-0)
• Rejected amendment to CUP condition for 100-foot west setback with consent (2-3)
• Approved consent agenda including fund transfers and professional agreements (5-0)
• Approved minutes of Feb 22, 2022 (5-0)
• Acknowledged Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment minutes (5-0)
• Appointed Jordan Potter as Board of Adjustment Liaison to Planning Commission

Emergency Coordinating Committee

The Winona County Emergency Coordinating Committee is meeting virtually to discuss emergency management updates, including a tabletop drill, radio training, and funding for public safety radio updates. They will also receive a COVID-19 update from Public Health and hold open discussion. The meeting is routine and informational, with no formal votes or public hearings listed.

• Tabletop drill scheduled for 3/2/22
• 800 MHz radio updates and training
• Public Safety Radio update funding discussion
• Public Health COVID-19 update
• Senior Officials Training

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold a working session to discuss large solar array information and the existing solar ordinance, which was passed in 2018 and may need updates as the industry has evolved. The board will also consider a consent agenda with multiple contracts, grants, and agreements, plus general business items including a lease agreement and fund transfers.

• Discuss Large Solar Array Information and Solar Ordinance
• Approve CEDA Economic Development Consultancy Services Contract for 2022
• Approve Contract with Tyler Technologies
• Award Bid for CSAH 7 and CSAH 27 Bridge Replacements to ICON Constructors
• Discuss/Approve Lease Agreement with Port Authority of Winona for 165 W. 2nd Street

The board voted unanimously to rescind the COVID-19 local state of emergency effective February 28, 2022, and approved several infrastructure grants and contracts, including bridge replacement grants for CSAH 7 and CSAH 27. A motion to apply for a Help America Vote Act grant was initially rejected, but a revised version passed. The board also tabled a lease agreement for 165 W. 2nd Street to gather more information.

• Rescinded COVID-19 local state of emergency effective Feb 28, 2022 (5-0)
• Approved CEDA Economic Development Consultancy Services Contract for 2022 (5-0)
• Approved bridge replacement grants: $760,679.60 for CSAH 7 and $345,748.00 for CSAH 27 (5-0)
• Approved MnDOT agreement for Co Rd 129 traffic signal replacement (5-0)
• Approved Help America Vote Act grant application (3-2)
• Appointed Edward Walsh to Board of Adjustments (4-1)
• Appointed Amber Hamernik to Economic Development Authority (5-0)
• Tabled lease agreement with Port Authority for 165 W. 2nd Street (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two separate petitions for 1 MW utility-scale solar projects, both submitted by Novel Energy Solutions LLC with property owners Randy & Valerie Breyer and Michael & Nicole Mades. The agenda also includes approval of the January 20, 2022 minutes and updates from the Board of Adjustment and County Board. The meeting is scheduled for February 17, 2022 at 7:00 PM.

• Docket # PC 02-17-22-01: Conditional Use/Interim Use Permit for a 1 MW solar project on Randy & Valerie Breyer's property, amended to include Wetland Delineation Review and Xcel Distributed Generation Hosting Capacity Map
• Docket # PC 02-17-22-02: Conditional Use/Interim Use Permit for a 1 MW solar project on Michael & Nicole Mades' property, amended to include Wetland Delineation Review and Xcel Distributed Generation Hosting Capacity Map
• Approval of minutes from January 20, 2022 meeting
• Updates from Board of Adjustment and County Board

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The board reviewed updates on the Nitrogen Fertilizer Management Plan and the Surface Water Assessment Grant. Members also discussed the sale of a computer following the relocation of board files to the Winona County Office.

• Sponsorship of Ray Archuleta Soil Health event
• Approval of 2021 Audit Proposal from Peterson Company
• Approval of cover crop payments under Drinking Water Protection Grant
• Proposed sale of a computer and monitor at 50% of original cost
• Update on Nitrogen Fertilizer Management Plan agreement

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will review a petition from Robert and Marilyn Hurt to install a subsurface sewage treatment system with reduced setbacks. The request seeks to place the system closer to property lines and a dwelling than current zoning ordinances allow due to the small lot size.

• Variance request for a subsurface sewage treatment system (SSTS) at Parcel # 22.015.0210
• Proposed setback reduction: 2 feet from front yard property line instead of 10 feet
• Proposed setback reduction: 5 feet from side yard property and 7 feet from dwelling instead of 10 and 20 feet respectively
• Annual review and adoption of Rules of Procedure
• Election of Board Chair and Vice Chair

Road & Bridge Committee

The Winona County Road & Bridge Committee will meet to discuss and decide on several road and bridge items, including a bridge project with local fire department concerns, storm damage to a highway department shed, and a budget overrun for maintenance funds. The agenda also includes updates on construction projects, a potential road reconstruction, and a right-of-way condemnation.

• CSAH 7 bridge project – Pickwick Fire & Rescue concerns
• Hwy Dept Goodview site – lean-to shed damage from Dec 15 storm and potential replacement
• CSAH 24 resurfacing need – correspondence from resident Joan Hager
• 2022 CSAH maintenance funds exceeding budget by $266,605
• CSAH 30 Whitewater River bridge replacement slated for $1,536,000 federal funding

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The Parks & Environment Advisory Committee is holding a special meeting to discuss two funding opportunities. The committee will review the DNR Conservation Partners Legacy Grant application for Stone Point Park and discuss funding allocations for ARP Act trail work.

• Stone Point Park-DNR Conservation Partners Legacy Grant application discussion and action
• ARP Act trail work application for funding allocation discussion
• Introduction of new member Sadie Neuman

The Parks & Environment Advisory Committee voted unanimously to submit an application for the Minnesota DNR Conservation Partners Legacy Grant to restore 80 acres of grassland at Stone Point Park to upland dry prairie. The committee also discussed a potential $100,000 ARP Act allocation for trail work at the park, but no formal action was taken on that item.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved submission of Conservation Partners Legacy Grant application for Stone Point Park (unanimous)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board of Commissioners will consider several land use permits and various service agreements. The meeting also includes updates on juvenile programs and a review of the county's employee recognition policy.

• Approval of six land use permits, including an Interim Use Permit for Becky Watkowski
• Renewal of agreement with Southeastern Libraries Cooperating
• Contract approval with Engage Winona for public health accountability requirements
• Purchase of service agreements with Family and Children's Center for residential and visitation services
• Approval of updated Employee Recognition Policy 3.15

The Winona County Board approved the consent agenda, including interim and conditional use permits for several property owners, and confirmed $2,459,034.89 in disbursements. They also approved a conditional use permit for Rudy Shetler, received a chloride monitoring grant memo, and approved an addendum with Ehlers for arbitrage services, both with 3-2 votes. No substantive decisions were made beyond these approvals.

• Approved consent agenda including permits for Watkowski, Greden, Adams/Barrett, Bronk/Bronk, Medgaarden (5-0)
• Confirmed $2,459,034.89 in disbursements (5-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Rudy Shetler (5-0)
• Received MPCA chloride monitoring grant memo (3-2)
• Approved Ehlers arbitrage services addendum (3-2)
• Approved future agenda item on fund transfer clarification (5-0)
• Maintained 2022 AMC delegates same as 2021 (5-0)

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee will meet to approve prior minutes, welcome new appointees, and elect a chairperson. They will receive updates on jail conditions, mental health service access recommendations, juvenile justice prevention services, a proposed youth leadership council, and the county's COVID-19 response. The meeting is primarily informational and advisory, with no formal decisions expected.

• Approve minutes from December 14, 2021 and January 11, 2022
• Determine chairperson and co-chairperson for 2022
• Update on recommendations for improved access to Winona County Mental Health Services
• Juvenile Justice Update on Prevention Services/Early Interventions Model
• Winona County COVID-19 Response Update

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee approved prior meeting minutes, welcomed new members, and elected Ruth Charles as Chairperson and Andrew Kranz as Co-Chairperson for 2022. The committee received updates on jail construction, mental health services access, juvenile justice prevention, and COVID-19 response. It requested reports from Tessa Diepenbrock on teens in foster care and from Sheriff Ron Ganrude on meth use impacts on child protection.

• Approved minutes from December 14, 2021 and January 11, 2022 (all in favor)
• Elected Ruth Charles as Chairperson for 2022
• Elected Andrew Kranz as Co-Chairperson for 2022
• Requested report from Tessa Diepenbrock on teens in foster care
• Requested report from Sheriff Ron Ganrude on meth use and its impacts on child protection

Economic Development Authority Board

The Winona County Economic Development Authority will meet to elect officers, approve minutes and financial reports, and receive updates on its revolving loan fund. New business includes presentations from Tim Penny of SMIF and Ron Ziegler of CEDA, an update on the county's broadband ARPA map, real estate highlights, and a discussion on the county housing study. The board will also revisit the interest rate modification for its loans.

• Election of officers conducted by Kay Qualley
• Presentation by Tim Penny, SMIF President/CEO, on maximizing WC-EDA membership
• Introduction of Dusty Liston, new WC-CEDA assignee funded for 2022 one day/month
• County Board approved Broadband (ARPA) map update (informational)
• Discussion on interest rate modification for EDA loans

The Winona County Economic Development Authority approved a motion to solicit Requests for Proposals for a county-wide housing study, the first since 1999. The board also elected officers, approved financial reports, and heard presentations from SMIF, CEDA, and the County Recorder. No loans were in arrears and no new loan applications were received.

• Approved soliciting RFPs for a County Housing Study (all in favor)
• Elected Duane Klein as President, Mike Kennedy as Vice President, Kay Qualley as Secretary
• Approved October-December 2021 financial reports (all in favor)
• Approved agenda (all in favor)
• Approved October 28, 2021 minutes (all in favor)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold its regular meeting, preceded by a Community Health Board session. The agenda includes consent items such as accepting the auditor-treasurer's notice of intent not to seek re-election, increasing the sheriff's department change fund, and approving multiple health and human services agreements, including COVID-19 vaccine campaign amendments and guardian-conservator services. General business includes discussing the interim county administrator's salary and receiving an update from the recorder's department. The meeting is largely procedural, with most items being routine approvals.

• Accept Auditor-Treasurer's Notice of Intent to not File for Re-election
• Approve Resolution Increasing Sheriff's Department Change Fund
• Approve Amended Contracts for COVID-19 Vaccine Campaign
• Approve Renewal of Purchase of Service and Business Associate Agreements with Catholic Charities Diocese of Winona-Rochester for Guardian-Conservator Services
• Discuss/Provide Direction for Interim County Administrator Salary

The Winona County Board approved amended contracts for the COVID-19 vaccine campaign by a 3-2 vote, with Commissioners Ward and Jacob dissenting. The board also approved routine consent items, including resolutions for a sheriff's change fund increase, monthly income maintenance and social service case actions, and donations totaling $5,406.50. A motion to appoint Kelley Stanage to the Board of Adjustment failed 2-3, and the board voted to keep the position open and re-advertise. The board accepted the Auditor-Treasurer's notice of intent not to file for re-election and the Recorder's notice of intent to file for re-election.

• Approved amended contracts for COVID-19 vaccine campaign (3-2)
• Approved resolution increasing Sheriff's Department change fund to $300 (5-0)
• Approved monthly resolution for income maintenance and social service case actions (5-0)
• Approved resolution accepting donations totaling $5,406.50 (5-0)
• Approved DataBank contract for database document retention (5-0)
• Appointment of Kelley Stanage to Board of Adjustment denied (2-3)
• Voted to keep Board of Adjustment position open and re-advertise (5-0)
• Accepted Auditor-Treasurer's notice of intent not to file for re-election (5-0)

Emergency Coordinating Committee

The Winona County Emergency Coordinating Committee is meeting virtually to receive updates from agencies, discuss emergency management items such as equipment rosters and radio training, and hear a COVID-19 update from Public Health. The agenda includes routine updates and open discussion, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Yearly roster and equipment updates
• Tabletop drill postponed
• 800 MHz radio updates and training
• Senior officials training
• Public Health COVID-19 update

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will hold public hearings and vote on six permit requests, including interim and conditional use permits for additional dwellings, a grocery store, and dwellings on small agricultural parcels. The meeting also includes annual procedural items like electing officers and adopting rules. The attached minutes from December show the commission recommended approval of a solar project and a health-care dwelling.

• Interim Use Permit for Becky Watkowski to add a part-time farm help dwelling
• Conditional Use Permit for Gary & Jan Medgaarden for a dwelling in A/RC and Shoreland districts
• Conditional Use Permit for Rudy Shetler for a grocery/general store (Shetler's Restock-Grocery & Variety)
• Conditional Use Permits for Brent & Cole Greden for dwellings on 8.8 acres and in Shoreland district
• Conditional Use Permit for Richard Michael Bronk for a dwelling on 11 acres

The Winona County Planning Commission held a public hearing and voted unanimously to recommend approval of six permit applications to the County Board. These include an interim use permit for additional farm help housing, conditional use permits for dwellings, a grocery store, and other uses. The commission also elected officers, adopted rules of procedure, and approved the agenda and previous minutes.

• Elected Mark Clark as Chair, Mike Flynn as Vice Chair, and Lynn Carlson as Secretary (all unanimous)
• Adopted 2022 Rules of Procedure with no changes (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Interim Use Permit for farm help housing (Docket # PC 01-20-22-01) (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Conditional Use Permit for dwelling/cabin (Docket # PC 01-20-22-02) (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Conditional Use Permit for grocery store (Docket # PC 01-20-22-03) (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Conditional Use Permit for dwelling (Docket # PC 01-20-22-04) (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Conditional Use Permit for dwelling (Docket # PC 01-20-22-05) (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Conditional Use Permit for dwelling (Docket # PC 01-20-22-06) (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for January 20, 2022, has been cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services. The next meeting is scheduled for February 17, 2022, at 1:00 pm. No agenda items are listed for this meeting.

• Meeting cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services
• Next meeting: February 17, 2022, at 1:00 pm

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will vote on several consent items, including an interim use permit, a conditional use permit for a 1-megawatt solar energy system, and multiple grant and agreement renewals. They will also discuss and provide direction on the County Administrator position. The meeting includes routine approvals of minutes and disbursements.

• Approve Interim Use Permit for Scott Hanson, Denise Conway and Joshua Johnsen
• Approve Conditional Use Permit for Henry and Julie Gibbs for 1-Megawatt Solar Energy System
• Approve Renewal of Grant and Business Associate Agreements with Advocacy Center of Winona for Sexual Assault Crisis Aide and Domestic Violence Crisis Intervention Services
• Approve Renewal of the State of Minnesota Off-Highway Vehicle Safety Enforcement Grant for 2022-2023
• Discuss/Provide Direction for County Administrator Position

The Winona County Board voted to close the current County Administrator search without selecting any applicants, then voted to repost the position in 6 months. The board also approved several permits, including a conditional use permit for a 1-megawatt solar energy system, and approved consent agenda items such as a trail assistance resolution and various grants.

• Closed County Administrator search without selecting applicants (3-2)
• Repost County Administrator position in 6 months (3-2)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for Scott Hanson, Denise Conway, Joshua Johnsen (5-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Henry and Julie Gibbs for 1-MW solar system (5-0)
• Approved MN Trail Assistance Program resolution for SE MN ATV Club (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including appointments, grants, and disbursements (5-0)
• Approved write-off of uncollectible accounts (5-0)
• Confirmed payment of disbursements totaling $1,560,999.11 (5-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Winona County Regional Railroad Authority is holding its annual meeting to elect 2022 officers, approve the agenda and prior minutes, and appoint a member and alternate to the Great River Rail Commission's Joint Powers Board. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or financial actions listed.

• Election of 2022 Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary/Treasurer
• Appointment of member and alternate to Great River Rail Commission Joint Powers Board (one-year terms starting Jan 15, 2022)
• Approval of minutes from January 12, 2021 annual meeting
• WCRRA's share of Great River Rail Commission's 2021 budget was $1,560

The Winona County Regional Railroad Authority held its annual meeting and unanimously approved its officers, agenda, and prior minutes. It also appointed Commissioner Meyer and Commissioner Kovecsi to the Great River Rail Commission for one-year terms starting January 15, 2022. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Re-elected Commissioner Meyer as Chair, Kovecsi as Vice Chair, Ward as Secretary/Treasurer (5-0)
• Approved the meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved minutes from January 12, 2021 (5-0)
• Appointed Meyer as member and Kovecsi as alternate to Great River Rail Commission (5-0)

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

The WinLaC Policy Committee will review and approve the budget update and invoice payments, and approve the plan priority issues list. They will also introduce measurable goals for the watershed plan. The meeting includes routine approvals of agenda and minutes from the November 8, 2021 meeting.

• Approve plan priority issues list (Priority A, B, C tiers)
• Review and approve budget update and invoice payments
• Introduce measurable goals for the watershed plan
• Approve minutes of November 8, 2021 Policy Committee meeting

The Policy Committee approved the final priority issue list for the WinLaC watershed plan, adopting Planning Work Group recommendations that moved several issues between priority tiers. The committee also approved the budget and invoice payments, and received updates on subwatershed prioritization, measurable goals, and upcoming public engagement events.

• Approved agenda and November 8, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved budget update and invoice payments (motion by Winters, second by Thein)
• Approved plan priority issues with PWG recommendations (unanimous)
• Moved issue #20 (soil health) from B to A priority
• Moved issue #30 (urban stormwater) from B to A priority
• Moved issue #23 (upland sediment) from B to A priority
• Moved issue #11 (forest/prairie/pollinator habitat) from A to B priority
• Moved issue #2 (unsealed wells) from A to B priority

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The committee will hold elections for Chair and Vice Chair positions. The agenda includes progress updates on Apple Blossom Park, Farmers Park, Stone Point, and area trails.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Apple Blossom Park updates
• Farmers Park updates
• Stone Point updates
• Area trails update

The Winona County Parks & Environment Advisory Committee elected Amanda Gentry as Chair and John Howard as Vice Chair by unanimous vote. The committee approved the agenda and amended minutes from November 2, 2021. They discussed updates for Stone Point, Apple Blossom, and Farmers Parks, including trail plans, parking improvements, and storm damage repairs, but took no formal action on these items.

• Elected Amanda Gentry as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected John Howard as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved amended minutes of November 2, 2021 (unanimous)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board of Commissioners will meet to elect a Chair and Vice Chair for the 2022 term. The agenda includes several consent items regarding grant renewals, contract extensions, and permit applications.

• Election of Board Chair and Vice Chair
• Award bid and contract for 2022 Official Newspaper
• Contract extension with Steve Hacken for Assessor's Office
• LG214 Premises Permit Application for Rollingstone Fire Relief Association
• LG220 Gambling Application for Friends of Country Climbers Snowmobile Club

The Winona County Board elected Chris Meyer as Board Chair and Marie Kovecsi as Vice Chair for 2022, each by a 3-2 vote. The board approved the consent agenda, including contracts and grants, and tabled the WinLaC project agreement until legal clarification. Several appointments to county boards and committees were made, with one appointment to the Personnel Board of Appeals failing.

• Elected Chris Meyer as Board Chair (3-2)
• Elected Marie Kovecsi as Vice Chair (3-2)
• Approved consent agenda including 2022 official newspaper contract and multiple grant agreements (5-0)
• Tabled WinLaC Prioritization & Public Outreach Project Agreement until Jan 25, 2022 (5-0)
• Approved letter of support for Winona Workforce Development Board Good Jobs Challenge Grant (5-0)
• Reappointed Mark Clark and Mike Flynn to Planning Commission (5-0)
• Appointed Jerry Obieglo and Mary Eskola to Health and Human Services Advisory (5-0)
• Appointment of Rick Pospichal to Personnel Board of Appeals failed (2-3)