Winona County public meetings in 2025

Emergency Coordinating Committee

The Winona County Emergency Coordinating Committee will receive agency updates and discuss 2026 training requests. Members will receive a radio system update and consider the Hazard Mitigation Plan, which FEMA has approved and now requires local approval. The committee will also review the Emergency Plan and hold an open discussion before adjourning.

• 2026 training requests
• Radio system update
• Hazard Mitigation Plan – FEMA approved, local approval needed
• Emergency Plan review
• Open discussion

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will vote on the 2026 budget, levy and fee schedule resolutions. It will also hold a public hearing to amend the Revised Cannabis Registration Ordinance. Additional agenda items include numerous contract approvals and funding agreements for health, human services, and other agencies.

• Adopt Resolution for 2026 Budget (p. 247)
• Adopt Resolution for 2026 Levy (p. 355)
• Adopt 2026 Fee Schedule (p. 357)
• Public Hearing to Amend and Approve Revised Cannabis Registration Ordinance (p. 388)
• Approve Outside Agency Funding Agreement with Soil and Water Conservation District for $179,610 (p. 582)

The board adopted the 2026 Winona County budget and approved a 10.96% property levy while rejecting a 3.5% levy. It also approved the revised Cannabis Registration Ordinance, a wage increase for the County Administrator, and a $900 uniform allowance for the sheriff. Additional approvals included a behavioral health program with CredibleMind and a CEDA economic‑development services contract.

• Adopt 2026 County budget (3‑2)
• Approve 2026 levy at 10.96% (3‑2)
• Reject 2026 levy at 3.5% (2‑3)
• Approve Revised Cannabis Registration Ordinance (5‑0)
• Approve General Wage Increase for County Administrator (3‑2)
• Approve Behavioral Health 360 Program with CredibleMind (4‑1)
• Approve 2026 CEDA Economic Development Professional Services Contract (4‑1)
• Approve 2026 Sheriff's Uniform Allowance ($900)

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two Conditional Use Permit requests. The first seeks to convert an existing pole building into a dwelling in the Shoreland Overlay and Agriculture/Resource Conservation Districts, with a variance for a reduced setback. The second seeks a permit for a single-family home on a proposed 1.6-acre parcel in Richmond Township. The commission will also receive updates from the Board of Adjustment, County Board, and Comprehensive Plan.

• Conditional Use Permit to convert pole building to dwelling in Shoreland Overlay and A/RC Districts (Docket PC 12-18-25-01)
• Conditional Use Permit for single-family dwelling on 1.6-acre parcel in Richmond Township (Docket PC 12-18-25-02)
• Variance for 65-ft setback from Ordinary High-Water Level (required 100 ft) for Lanes Valley Creek
• Proposed dwelling on prime farmland soil (Lindstrom Silt Loam)
• Citizen Advisory Committee Member Recognition

The commission opened and then closed a public hearing on the Weymiller conditional use petition. It adopted the Findings of Fact and voted 6‑2 to recommend approval of the permit to the Winona County Board. The recommendation will be placed on the Board’s agenda for Jan 13 2026. Earlier agenda and minutes approvals passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda (yes‑all)
• Approved November 20, 2025 minutes (yes‑all)
• Opened public hearing on petition (yes‑all)
• Closed public hearing (yes‑all)
• Adopted Findings of Fact and recommended permit approval (yes‑6, nay‑2)
• Scheduled recommendation for County Board agenda Jan 13 2026

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment will consider a variance request to allow a dwelling on prime farmland and a reduced setback from a creek. The petitioners seek to convert an existing pole building into living quarters on approximately 232 acres in New Hartford Township.

• Variance request for dwelling on Class II prime farmland
• Variance request for 65-foot setback from creek (required 100 feet)
• Conversion of existing pole building to living quarters
• Property located on Lanes Valley Road in New Hartford Township
• Conditional Use Permit also required for Shoreland Overlay District

Extension Committee

The committee will receive program updates from 4-H Youth Development, Master Gardeners, and the Regional Director. Members will discuss the department budget for the next fiscal year and the selection process for next year's Farm Family nomination.

• Status of Department Budget for the next fiscal year
• Farm Family nomination and selection process
• Committee membership status and term expirations for Melinda Groth and Casey Moger
• Setting meeting dates for next year

The Winona County Extension Committee approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the September meeting, correcting a misspelled name. The extension department budget is pending approval next Tuesday. New committee applicant nominations were noted for discussion in January.

• Approved agenda (motion and second passed)
• Approved September meeting minutes (misspelling corrected, motion passed)

Economic Development Authority Board

The December 15, 2025, Economic Development Authority meeting has been cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services. The next scheduled EDA meeting is Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 4:30 pm in the County Office Building, 202 West Third St, Winona, MN. This agenda contains only a cancellation notice and no business items.

• December 15, 2025 EDA meeting cancelled
• Next EDA meeting: January 22, 2026, 4:30 pm
• Location: County Office Building, 202 West Third St, Winona, MN

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold a public hearing on the 2026 budget, the 2026 fee schedule, and transportation sales tax projects. It will also approve several conditional use permits, renew service agreements with local agencies, and adopt the 2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan. Additional items include a gambling exemption permit application and various memoranda of understanding with employee associations.

• Approve Conditional Use Permit for James F. Allen and Sharlene L. Allen (p. 32)
• Approve Conditional Use Permit for Arnold Hoffe (p. 48)
• Approve LG220 Gambling Application for Exempt Permit‑SE MN Quail Forever 3060 (p. 58)
• Approve Resolution to Adopt 2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan (p. 61)
• Conduct public hearing on 2026 Budget, 2026 Fee Schedule and Transportation Sales Tax Projects (p. 143)

The Winona County Board approved the 2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan and adopted the FY2026 budget with a $130,000 special benefit tax levy. Commissioners' salary resolutions were voted on, passing Resolution A and rejecting Resolution B. Several consent items—including conditional use permits and service agreements—were also approved.

• Approved November 25, 2025 Board minutes (5‑0)
• Approved October 16, 2025 Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment minutes (5‑0)
• Adopted 2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan (Resolution #2025-42) (5‑0)
• Approved FY2026 budget and SEMMCHRA Special Benefit Tax Levy ($130,000) (3‑2)
• Adopted Resolution A for 2026 Commissioners’ salaries (4‑1)
• Rejected Resolution B for 2026 Commissioners’ salaries (1‑4)
• Approved consent items (conditional use permits, service agreements, equipment purchase) (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0)

Stockton Rollingstone Minnesota City Watershed District

The Watershed District Board will adopt new district rules and set a hearing for the next year's budget. It will also consider payment of the remaining balance to Pat Kalmes and review applications for pond clean‑outs. Additional items include discussion of Rollingstone ponds and the WSD scholarship program.

• Adopt WSD rules and schedule next year's budget hearing
• Pay remaining balance to Pat Kalmes
• Approve pond clean‑out applications for several participants
• Discuss Rollingstone ponds
• Review WSD scholarship

The board approved the agenda, the minutes from the November 12 meeting, and the treasurer's report. They also approved sending the remaining balance of approved funding to Pat Kalmes for his cover‑crop project. The district will set a date for a public hearing on the 2026 budget and will check CPA Katie Jacobson's availability for the 2025 audit.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Nov 12 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved treasurer report (unanimous)
• Approved disbursement of remaining balance to Pat Kalmes for cover‑crop project

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The Winona County Parks & Environment Advisory Committee will meet on Dec 2, 2025 to discuss an update on the use of American Rescue Plan funds at Apple Blossom Park. The meeting also includes a presentation of a Comprehensive Plan Survey by Lew Overhaug and native advisory updates from Carrie Johnson of the Winona County Historical Society. Progress reports will be given for Stone Point Park, Apple Blossom Park, and Farmers Park.

• Update on use of American Rescue Plan funds at Apple Blossom Park
• Comprehensive Plan Survey – Lew Overhaug
• Native Advisory Updates – Carrie Johnson, Winona County Historical Society
• Progress report on Stone Point Park
• Progress report on Farmers Park

The Parks & Environment Advisory Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the October 7, 2025 minutes. It also voted to formally start Friends groups for Stone Point Park (led by Beth Stanford) and Apple Blossom Park (led by Anne Morse) and to apply for the Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships program. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (Yes - All)
• Approved October 7, 2025 minutes (Yes - All)
• Approved start of Friends groups for Stone Point Park (lead Beth Stanford) and Apple Blossom Park (lead Anne Morse) and application to Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships program (Yes - All)
• Adjourned meeting (Yes - All)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will discuss the 2026 draft budget. It will approve exempt gambling permits for the Winona Sportsmen's Club and the SnowSports Snowmobile Club, as well as several service agreements. The board will adopt compensation resolutions for the County Sheriff, Attorney, Recorder, and Auditor‑Treasurer for 2026. It will also set a public hearing for December 11, 2025 to consider amendments to the zoning ordinance and the cannabis business registration ordinance #50.

• Approve LG220 gambling exempt permit for Winona Sportsmen's Club (p. 438)
• Approve LG220 gambling exempt permit for SnowSports Snowmobile Club (p. 441)
• Approve renewal of Service and Business Associate Agreements with Midwest Monitoring (p. 444)
• Approve Professional Services Agreement with Klein McCarthy Architects for Law Enforcement Center planning (p. 524)
• Set public hearing to consider amendments to Zoning Ordinance and Cannabis Business Registration Ordinance #50 for Dec 11, 2025 (p. 539)

The Winona County Board approved the 2026 salaries for the County Sheriff, County Attorney, and County Recorder. It set a public hearing for proposed amendments to the zoning ordinance on December 11, 2025. The board also approved several consent‑business items and professional‑services agreements.

• Approved County Board minutes dated November 12, 2025 – Yes (4)
• Approved consent‑business items (gambling permits, service agreements, grant contract, donation) – Yes (4)
• Approved professional services agreement with Klein McCarthy Architects for law‑enforcement center study – Yes (4)
• Approved professional services agreement with Soil and Water Conservation District for feedlot manure management plans – Yes (4)
• Set public hearing to consider zoning ordinance amendments on December 11, 2025 – Yes (4)
• Approved Sheriff 2026 salary of $178,503.58 – Yes (4)
• Approved County Attorney 2026 salary of $185,641.83 – Yes (4)
• Approved County Recorder 2026 salary of $128,018.87 – Yes (4)

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board is meeting to discuss the future of the watershed project, including a potential retirement of the coordinator and the possibility of disbanding due to Olmsted County's decision to not fund the project in 2026. The board will also vote on a 2025 audit proposal.

• Vote on 2025 Audit Proposal ($3,000-$3,500)
• Discussion on Whitewater Coordinator retirement
• Review of Whitewater JPB dissolution options
• Update on Whitewater Well Sealing Grant
• Update on Local Advisory Team Grant

The board approved the 2025 audit proposal from Katie Jacobson. It voted unanimously to recommend that partner boards sign a letter to terminate the Whitewater Joint Powers Board and its agreement. Additional actions included approving a cost‑share for a well‑sealing project, closing out the well‑sealing and LAT grants, and adopting a plan to distribute inventory assets to the three county SWCDs.

• Approved 2025 audit proposal by Katie Jacobson ($3,000‑$3,500). Vote: Yes — All.
• Recommended partners sign letter to terminate the Whitewater Joint Powers Board. Vote: Yes — All.
• Offered inventory of properties to Winona, Wabasha, and Olmsted County SWCDs (or highest bidder). Vote: Yes — All.
• Approved cost‑share for Olmsted County well‑sealing project ($2,915 total, $2,186.25 share). Vote: Yes — All.
• Approved staff to close out the remaining Well Sealing Grant after payment. Vote: Yes — All.
• Approved staff to close out the LAT grant with Minnesota Dept. of Agriculture by Dec 31 2025. Vote: Yes — All.
• Adjourned meeting at 10:21 a.m. Vote: Yes — All.

Emergency Coordinating Committee

The Emergency Coordinating Committee will receive agency and department updates, consider 2026 training requests, and review the radio system. It will conduct an in‑house review of the Hazard Mitigation Plan and discuss the Continuity of Operations and Emergency Plans before adjourning.

• Introductions and agency/department updates
• 2026 training requests
• Radio system update
• Hazard Mitigation Plan – in‑house review phase
• Continuity of Operations Plan

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will review three petitions. Two petitions request Conditional/Interim Use Permits to allow single‑family dwellings on parcels under forty acres in the Agricultural/Resource Conservation district. The third petition seeks to amend the Comprehensive Land Use Map and rezone a one‑acre parcel from Business & Recreational to Agriculture‑Resource Conservation.

• Conditional/Interim Use Permit for James F. Allen & Sharlene L. Allen to place a single‑family dwelling on less than forty contiguous acres (Chapter 10.4.6.36.A).
• Conditional/Interim Use Permit for Arnold Hoffe to convert an existing structure to a new dwelling on approximately 2.5 acres in the A/RC district (Chapter 10.4.6).
• Petition to amend the Comprehensive Land Use Map and rezone a one‑acre parcel from Rural Residential Service to Agriculture‑Natural Resource and from Business & Recreational to Agriculture‑Resource Conservation (Chapter 5.4).

The commission opened and then closed the public hearing on the Allen conditional use petition. After discussion, it adopted the Findings of Fact and unanimously recommended that the Winona County Board approve the permit with the stated conditions. The recommendation will be placed on the Board agenda for December 11, 2025.

• Approved agenda (vote: Yes - All)
• Approved minutes (vote: Yes - All)
• Opened public hearing on Allen conditional use petition (vote: Yes - All)
• Closed public hearing on Allen conditional use petition (vote: Yes - All)
• Adopted Findings of Fact and recommended approval of Allen conditional use permit to County Board (vote: Yes - All)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will hear petition Docket # BOA 11-20-25-01 from Arnold Hoffe and Todd & Lisa Hoffe requesting variances to the Winona County Subdivision Regulations and to the prime‑soil requirements so they can place a new single‑family residence on a 2.5‑acre parcel on Hoffe Lane. The request seeks relief from subdivision standards for splitting the parcel from a 101‑acre parent and to allow the residence on Class I‑III soils. The Richmond Township Board has indicated support, and staff have prepared analysis of the eight statutory approval criteria.

• Variance request to split a 2.5‑acre parcel from a 101‑acre parent parcel (subdivision standards)
• Variance request to waive prime‑soil requirement for Class I‑III soils
• Proposed conversion of an existing accessory structure into a new residence
• Conditional Use Permit needed for a residence under 40 acres in the A/RC zoning district
• Richmond Township Board support noted in Township Acknowledgement Form

The Board of Adjustment approved its agenda and the October 16, 2025 minutes. After opening a public hearing, the Board closed the hearing with no public comments and unanimously approved the variance to split a 2.5‑acre parcel and allow a new residence on prime soils.

• Approved agenda (Yes - All)
• Approved October 16, 2025 minutes (Yes - All)
• Opened public hearing on Hoffe variance (Yes - All)
• Closed public hearing (Yes - All)
• Approved variance to split 2.5‑acre parcel and add residence (Yes - All)

Economic Development Authority Board

The Economic Development Authority meeting scheduled for November 17, 2025, was cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services. No other business was listed.

Winona County Board

The Board of Commissioners will review the 2026 draft budget and discuss potential donations to a homeless shelter and the Volunteer Services and Hometown Resource Center. The meeting also includes approvals for several service agreements and infrastructure projects.

• Award bid to Danckwart Companies for CSAH 12 Grading and Bituminous Resurfacing Project
• Resolution and Agreement 1061127 for State Local Bridge Replacement Program Grant for CSAH 26 Bridges
• Conditional Use Permit for Peter and Lisa Wingert
• Resolution establishing 2026 minimum salary for elected positions
• Purchase of Service Agreement with National Alliance on Mental Illness Southeast Minnesota

The Winona County Board approved a State Local Bridge Replacement Program grant of $1,484,301.38 for three county bridges. It also adopted a resolution establishing a $8,000 minimum salary for the County Attorney, Auditor‑Treasurer, Recorder, and Sheriff for 2026. Several contracts and service agreements were approved, and the meeting minutes and agenda were adopted.

• Approved State Local Bridge Replacement Program grant of $1,484,301.38 for CSAH 26 bridges (vote: Yes – 5)
• Approved resolution setting 2026 minimum salary of $8,000 for elected officials (County Attorney, Auditor‑Treasurer, Recorder, Sheriff)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Peter and Lisa Wingert (consent business)
• Approved Purchase Agreement with National Alliance on Mental Illness Southeast Minnesota (consent business)
• Approved Renewal of Service and Business Associate Agreements with Partners in Excellence for children's mental health (consent business)
• Awarded CSAH 12 grading and resurfacing contract to Danckwart Companies (consent business)
• Confirmed payment of $131,969.25 to 315 vendors (vote: Yes – 5)
• Adopted meeting minutes from October 28, 2025 (vote: Yes – 5)

Stockton Rollingstone Minnesota City Watershed District

The Stockton‑Rollingstone Minnesota City Watershed District will schedule a hearing for its budget next year. The board will discuss the status of Rollingstone ponds, a scholarship sent to local schools, and a Stockton grant. Several pond clean‑out projects received approvals or are under review.

• WSD Rules – Hold hearing next year for budget
• Rollingstone ponds discussion
• WSD scholarship – Sent to WSH & Cotter
• Stockton Grant consideration
• Pond Clean Outs – multiple approvals and applications

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will discuss the 2026 draft budget and consider a series of consent items, including contracts, resolutions, and policy updates. Items include a contract with Justice Management Institute, a bridge replacement award to ICON Constructors, and several human‑resources and public‑safety policy approvals. The board will also receive departmental presentations and appoint 2026 AMC delegates.

• Approve contract with Justice Management Institute
• Award bid for CSAH 26 Bridge Replacements to ICON Constructors, LLC
• Approve Non‑Union Wage Grid Amendment 2025‑2027
• Approve Minnesota Paid Leave Policy
• Approve renewal of Gun Range Agreement with Winona Police Department

The Winona County Board approved several resolutions, including canceling unused 2022 warrant‑checks and agreeing to act as sponsor for Local Road Improvement Program grant applications. It also approved contracts for a bridge replacement, a gun‑range agreement, and updated state policies, while declining the Apple Blossom Park grant. A renewal of service agreements with the Family and Children’s Center was tabled for a future meeting.

• Approved Resolution #2025-32 to cancel stale 2022 warrant‑checks (vote 5‑0)
• Awarded CSAH 26 bridge replacement contract to ICON Constructors, LLC
• Approved Resolution #2025-33 to act as project sponsor for LRIP grant applications
• Approved Minnesota Paid Leave Policy 7.22
• Approved Updated Americans with Disabilities Act Policy 1.11
• Approved renewal of Gun Range Agreement with Winona Police Department
• Approved acceptance of cash donations totaling $41,594.51
• Declined Apple Blossom Park Outdoor Recreation Grant (vote 5‑0)

Economic Development Authority Board

The Winona County Economic Development Authority will meet to approve minutes, review financial reports, and discuss new business including the election of a vice chair and updates on local economic development initiatives.

• Election of Vice Chair for remainder of 2025
• Review of August and September 2025 financial reports
• Update on Comprehensive Plan
• Guest speaker on Creative Work Space
• Discussion on scheduling November and December meetings

The board unanimously approved the meeting agenda, the August minutes, and the financial report. Dan Wilson was elected Vice Chair for the remainder of 2025. The board approved a letter of recommendation for the Winona Makerspace. It also decided the board will not meet again until 2026 unless a loan requires consideration.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved August 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous)
• Elected Dan Wilson as Vice Chair for remainder of 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved letter of recommendation for Winona Makerspace (unanimous)
• Decided not to meet again until 2026 unless a loan is needed
• Adjourned meeting at 5:28 p.m. (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will review petition PC 10‑16‑25‑01 requesting a Conditional Use Permit for a new single‑family dwelling on a 3‑acre parcel in Section 17 of Whitewater Township. The request includes a variance to allow the dwelling on class III soil, which normally requires class IV‑VIII soils. Staff analysis indicates the project would not burden public facilities, alter the area’s character, or affect environmental features. The Commission’s recommendation will be sent to the County Board for final approval.

• Petition PC 10‑16‑25‑01 for a Conditional Use Permit for a 3‑acre parcel in Section 17, Whitewater Township
• Variance request to permit the dwelling on class III soil under WCZO §10.4.7(6)
• Proposed site located north of Beaver Ridge Drive, about 1 mile southeast of the County Road 20 intersection
• Board of Adjustment will consider the soil variance at 1:00 PM on October 16
• Staff analysis finds no excessive burden on parks, drainage, emergency services, schools, or roads

The commission unanimously approved its agenda and the September 18 minutes. It opened and then closed the public hearing on the Wingert conditional use petition. The commission adopted the Findings of Fact and unanimously recommended that the County Board approve the conditional use permit at its November 12 meeting.

• Approved agenda (8-0)
• Approved September 18 minutes (8-0)
• Opened public hearing on Wingert petition (9-0)
• Closed public hearing on Wingert petition (9-0)
• Adopted Findings of Fact and recommended CUP approval (9-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment will consider three variance petitions at its October 16, 2025 meeting. Petition BOA 10‑16‑25‑01 seeks a variance to permit a single‑family dwelling on a 2.71‑acre parcel composed of Class I‑III soils, deviating from WCZO Chapter 10.4.7(6). Petitions BOA 10‑16‑25‑02 and 10‑16‑25‑03 request reduced setbacks for an agricultural storage shed near State Highway 14 and a dwelling on Class III soil, respectively, each citing specific ordinance sections.

• BOA 10‑16‑25‑01 – Variance for James & Sharlene Allen and Jeremy & Erin Allen to build a single‑family home on Class I‑III soils (WCZO Chapter 10.4.7(6))
• BOA 10‑16‑25‑02 – Variance for H&B Ag Services to place a shed 100 ft from State Highway 14 (instead of 130 ft) and 20 ft from rear‑yard line (instead of 50 ft) (WCZO Chapter 10.8.6)
• BOA 10‑16‑25‑03 – Variance for Lisa Wingert to locate a dwelling on Class III soil rather than required Class IV‑VIII (WCZO Chapter 10.4.7(6))

The Winona County Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a variance allowing James and Jeremy Allen to build a single‑family dwelling on a parcel of Class I‑III soils, with conditions and findings of fact attached. The board also unanimously approved a variance for H&B Ag Services to locate a shed closer to Highway 14 and the rear yard than normally permitted. Both petitions were heard publicly, with the board opening and closing the hearings by unanimous vote.

• Approved Allen variance for single‑family dwelling (unanimous)
• Approved H&B Ag Services shed setback variance (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing for Allen petition (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for Allen petition (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing for H&B Ag Services petition (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for H&B Ag Services petition (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board of Commissioners will meet to vote on several administrative appointments, contracts, and land-use permits. The board will also discuss the use of American Rescue Plan funds for Apple Blossom Park and consider a real estate transaction at 520 Hilbert Street.

• Appointment of Phil Sonnenberg as Finance Director
• Interim Use Permit for Barbara Mitchell and Conditional Use Permit for Kelly Anderson
• Purchase of Poll Pad Units and a Dive and Rescue Boat
• Mental Illness Involuntary Hold Services Contract with Winona Health
• Prioritized Bridge Replacement List Resolution

The Winona County Board approved the September 23 board and closed‑session minutes, tabled a service‑agreement purchase with the National Alliance on Mental Illness, and approved a series of consent‑business items including a prioritized bridge replacement list, health consultant appointments, and several grant agreements. Additional approvals covered poll‑pad purchases, the appointment of Finance Director Phil Sonnenberg, and the Kavira membership service. The board also confirmed payment of $2,709,231.57 in disbursements.

• Approved County Board minutes dated Sep 23 2025 (Yes 4)
• Approved Closed Session minutes dated Sep 23 2025 (Yes 4)
• Tabled Purchase of Service Agreement with National Alliance on Mental Illness (Yes 4)
• Approved Consent Business items including Prioritized Bridge Replacement List (approved)
• Approved Purchase of Poll Pad Units (Yes 3, No 1)
• Approved Recommendation to appoint Finance Director Phil Sonnenberg (Yes 4)
• Approved Kavira Membership Service (Yes 4)
• Confirmed payment of disbursements totaling $2,709,231.57 (Yes 4)

Stockton Rollingstone Minnesota City Watershed District

The Watershed District board will approve several pond clean‑out projects, some scheduled for the end of November. It will also consider a scholarship to be sent to WSH and Cotter, and a payment to Pat Kalmes based on a percentage of the total. Additional agenda items include routine reports and rule discussions.

• Pond clean‑out approval for Jason Speltz – scheduled for end of November
• Pond clean‑out approval for Michael Butenhoff
• Pond clean‑out approval for Diane Dingfelder – scheduled for end of November
• WSD scholarship – to be sent to WSH & Cotter
• Payment to Pat Kalmes – percent of the total

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss the status of American Rescue Plan funds for Apple Blossom Park and staffing changes. The meeting includes progress reports for Stone Point Park, Apple Blossom Park, and Farmers Park.

• Review of American Rescue Plan funds for Apple Blossom Park
• Discussion of staffing changes
• Progress report on Stone Point Park
• Progress report on Apple Blossom Park
• Progress report on Farmers Park

The committee voted unanimously to approve the recommendation to open vistas in Apple Blossom Park by cutting trees in areas 1, 4, 5 and additional areas if funds allow. They also removed the bench item from the proposed improvements and added an item to maintain existing picnic tables, approving the revised list. Earlier motions approved the removal of agenda item 5.1 and the August 2025 minutes, both with unanimous votes.

• Approved removal of agenda item 5.1 "Comprehensive Plan Survey - Lew Overhaug" (unanimous)
• Approved August 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation to open vistas by cutting trees in areas 1, 4, 5 and additional areas if funds allow (unanimous)
• Approved removal of item 2d "up to three benches if costs allow" from proposed list (unanimous)
• Approved addition of item under item 2 to maintain/protect existing picnic tables and approved the revised list (unanimous)

Extension Committee

The Winona County Extension Committee will review the terms of its Community Education Council (CEC) membership and discuss whether new members are needed for the next year. The meeting includes program updates from 4‑H Youth Development, Master Gardeners, and the UMN Extension Community Economics educator. Attendees are reminded to submit program feedback at the final meeting of the year. The next committee meeting is scheduled for December 17, 2025.

• Review CEC membership terms
• Discuss need for new CEC members for next year
• Program updates from 4‑H Youth Development, Master Gardeners, and Community Economics
• Reminder to submit program feedback at final meeting of the year
• Schedule next meeting for Dec 17, 2025

The Winona County Extension Committee approved the meeting agenda. It also approved the minutes from the July 2025 meeting. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved agenda
• Approved July 2025 meeting minutes

Economic Development Authority Board

The Winona County Economic Development Authority meeting scheduled for September 25, 2025 was cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services. No agenda items were considered at this meeting. The next EDA meeting is set for Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 4:30 pm in the County Office Building, 202 West Third St, Winona, MN.

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board meeting on September 23, 2025 includes consent business items for approval of various grant agreements, contracts, and procurement actions. Items include renewal of the Veterans Services Office Operational Enhancement Grant, an amended prosecutor contract, a crime victim services grant, and an amended contract with the Family and Children’s Center for Treatment Court Testing. Additional approvals cover a gambling exempt permit for the Bluff Country Chapter of the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association, a professional services agreement with Winona Health, and a bid award for a dump box and snowplow package to Universal Truck Equipment Inc. The board will also discuss insurance plans, a strategic plan update, and confirm payment of disbursements.

• Approve Renewal of Veterans Services Office Operational Enhancement Grant Program Agreement
• Approve Amended Prosecutor by Karpel BCA Juvenile Interface Contract
• Approve LG220 Gambling Application for Exempt Permit – Bluff Country Chapter of MN Deer Hunters Association
• Award Bid for Dump Box and Snowplow Package to Universal Truck Equipment Inc.
• Approve Professional Services Agreement with Winona Health for Dr. Kelli Ostermann (medical consultant services)

The Winona County Board approved the minutes from September 9, 2025 and the corresponding closed‑session minutes. It accepted a $63,645 Crime Victim Services 2026 grant from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. The Board also approved a Department Head Association labor agreement (3‑2 vote), proposed insurance plans, and awarded a dump‑box and snowplow package to Universal Truck Equipment. The Kavira Membership Service was tabled until the October 14, 2025 meeting.

• Approved County Board minutes dated September 9, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Closed Session minutes dated September 9, 2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted Crime Victim Services 2026 Grant of $63,645 (unanimous)
• Approved Department Head Association Labor Agreement 2025‑2027 (3‑2)
• Approved Proposed Insurance Plans (unanimous)
• Awarded Dump Box and Snowplow Package to Universal Truck Equipment Inc. (unanimous)
• Tabled Kavira Membership Service until October 14, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Citizen Advisory Committees Process and Timeline (unanimous)

Emergency Coordinating Committee

The Winona County Emergency Coordinating Committee will receive agency and department updates, discuss 2025 training including a Lock and Dam 7 tour on October 2, and review the Hazard Mitigation Plan with a follow‑up meeting on October 27. The committee will also receive updates on school safety, the Continuity of Operations Plan, and the Emergency Plan before opening discussion.

• Lock and Dam 7 tour training – scheduled for October 2, 2025
• Hazard Mitigation Plan – next meeting scheduled for October 27, 2025 (09:00‑10:30) via Zoom
• School safety updates
• Continuity of Operations Plan discussion
• Emergency Plan discussion

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will review two petitions for Conditional/Interim Use Permits. One petition (PC 09-18-25-01) seeks permission for an additional home for family members providing health care under Chapter 10.4.6 (26) of the Zoning Ordinance. The second petition (PC 09-18-25-02) requests approval for a new single‑family dwelling on a 31‑acre split under Chapter 10.4.6 (36). The meeting also includes routine updates from the Board of Adjustment, County Board, and Comprehensive Plan staff.

• Petition PC 09-18-25-01 – conditional use permit for an additional home for health‑care family members (Zoning Ordinance Chapter 10.4.6 (26))
• Petition PC 09-18-25-02 – conditional use permit for a new single‑family dwelling on a 31‑acre split (Zoning Ordinance Chapter 10.4.6 (36))
• Board of Adjustment update: variance approved for an Amish schoolhouse and farm housing
• County Board update: approval of prior petitions referenced in earlier meeting
• Comprehensive Plan update: outreach activities and upcoming steering committee meeting

The Planning Commission opened and closed public hearings for petitions by Barbara Mitchell and Kelly Anderson, then adopted Findings of Fact and unanimously recommended approval of both the interim use permit and the conditional use permit to the Winona County Board. The recommendations will be considered at the County Board meeting on October 14, 2025. Earlier agenda items and the August 21, 2025 minutes were also approved unanimously.

• Approved agenda amendment removing docket PC 09-18-25-03 (Yes—All)
• Approved August 21, 2025 minutes (Yes—All)
• Opened public hearing for Barbara Mitchell petition (Yes—All)
• Closed public hearing for Barbara Mitchell petition (Yes—All)
• Adopted Findings of Fact and recommended approval of Barbara Mitchell interim use permit (Yes—All)
• Opened public hearing for Kelly Anderson petition (Yes—All)
• Closed public hearing for Kelly Anderson petition (Yes—All)
• Adopted Findings of Fact and recommended approval of Kelly Anderson conditional use permit (Yes—All)

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment will review four petitions for zoning variances. Three requests involve allowing single-family dwellings on prime soils (Class I-III), and one request seeks to reduce the rear yard requirement for a solar array.

• Docket # BOA 09-18-25-01: Variance for existing dwelling on prime soils (Jeremy and Kasie Scheel)
• Docket # BOA 09-18-25-02: Variance for new dwelling on prime soils and 205 ft. feedlot setback (Daniel, Kathy, and Robert Heyer)
• Docket # BOA 09-18-25-03: Variance to reduce minimum rear yard for ground-mounted solar array (Ridgeway Community Association/Jodi Dansingburg)
• Docket # BOA 09-18-25-04: Variance for new dwelling on prime soils (Kelly Anderson)

The board approved its agenda and the August 21, 2025 minutes unanimously. Public hearings were opened and closed for each petition, and both variance requests were denied with unanimous votes. The board also amended the Findings of Fact for each case and removed the proposed conditions.

• Approved agenda (vote: Yes — All)
• Approved August 21, 2025 minutes (vote: Yes — All)
• Opened public hearing for Scheel petition (vote: Yes — All)
• Closed public hearing for Scheel petition (vote: Yes — All)
• Denied Scheel variance and amended Findings of Fact (vote: Yes — All)
• Opened public hearing for Heyer petition (vote: Yes — All)
• Closed public hearing for Heyer petition (vote: Yes — All)
• Denied Heyer variance and amended Findings of Fact (vote: Yes — All)

Stockton Rollingstone Minnesota City Watershed District

The Stockton-Rollingstone-Minnesota City Watershed District will review its 2024 audit, approve a levy, and authorize pond cleanouts. The board will also consider applications for scholarships and pond maintenance.

• Approval of 2024 audit and levy
• Pond cleanouts authorized for Jason Speltz and Michael Butenhoff
• Scholarship applications submitted by Donna Freisen, Mike Reed, and Diane Dingfelder
• Public hearing for Comprehensive Plan Open House
• Joel Speltz approved pending Lew's letter of approval

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will consider several consent items, including three conditional use permits and a professional services agreement. It will also vote on a grant for hazardous‑materials emergency preparedness, a resolution for funds from the Taylor Family Farm Foundation, and a preliminary property‑tax levy for 2026. Additional agenda items cover department updates and a discussion on nitrate‑strategy collaboration.

• Approve Conditional Use Permit for Twyla Peterson
• Approve Conditional Use Permit for Jake and Mary Yoder
• Approve Conditional Use Permit for Beverly Dulek
• Approve Purchase of Dive and Rescue Team Boat
• Approve Resolution Setting Preliminary 2026 Property Tax Levy

The Winona County Board approved a preliminary property tax levy of 12.49% for 2026 (3‑2 vote). It also approved several consent‑business items, including three conditional‑use permits, an extension of the interim assessor agreement, a hazardous‑materials grant, and the purchase of a dive‑team boat (5‑0 votes). Additional actions passed were the renewal of the GIS ESRI software license, the appointment of Health and Human Services Director Jill Chaffee, and a 3‑2 approval of the 2025‑2027 Department Head Association Agreement. By consensus the board denied a request to remove public Zoom links from the county website.

• Approved preliminary 2026 property tax levy at 12.49% (3‑2)
• Approved three conditional‑use permits for Twyla Peterson, Jake & Mary Yoder, and Beverly Dulek (5‑0)
• Approved extension of interim assessor appointment and services agreement with Mower County (5‑0)
• Approved purchase of Dive and Rescue Team boat (5‑0)
• Approved renewal of GIS ESRI software license agreement (5‑0)
• Approved appointment of Health and Human Services Director Jill Chaffee (5‑0)
• Approved 2025‑2027 Department Head Association Agreement (3‑2)
• Denied removal of public Zoom links from county website (consensus)

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board met to review financial updates, grant proposals, and agency reports. The board approved the 2024 audit report, extended the Whitewater Well Sealing Grant to December 31, 2026, and approved sub-agreements with Olmsted, Wabasha, and Winona counties for well-sealing work. The spongy moth proposal was cancelled by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

• Approve 2024 audit report by Katie Jacobson, CPA
• Extend Whitewater Well Sealing Grant to December 31, 2026
• Approve sub-agreements with Olmsted, Wabasha, and Winona SWCDs for well sealing
• Approve 2026 draft budget proposal
• Spongy moth proposal cancelled by MN Dept of Agriculture

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board unanimously approved the minutes from the May 27, 2025 meeting, the agenda, and the consent items. They also voted to approve the 2024 audit report prepared by Katie Jacobson. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved May 27, 2025 meeting minutes (Vote: Yes — All)
• Approved agenda (Vote: Yes — All)
• Approved consent items (Vote: Yes — All)
• Approved 2024 audit report (Vote: Yes — All)

Emergency Coordinating Committee

The committee will review agency updates and upcoming 2025 training events. Members will discuss the Hazard Mitigation Plan, Continuity of Operations Plan, and the Emergency Plan.

• Full Scale training on September 13th, 2025
• Lock and Dam 7 Tour on October 2nd
• Hazard Mitigation Plan discussion
• Continuity of Operations Plan discussion
• Emergency Plan discussion

Winona County Board

The Board will hold a working session to review the 2026 draft budget and provide preliminary levy direction. The meeting includes several consent items regarding service agreements and fee updates, as well as discussions on park funding and facilities.

• 2026 Draft Budget and Preliminary Levy Direction discussion
• Wellness Services Agreement with Hy-Vee
• Updates to the fee schedule
• AFSCME Courthouse Unit Amendment 2025-2027
• Recommendation on use of excess feedlot funding

The Winona County Board approved the AFSCME Courthouse Unit Amendment for 2025‑2027 by a 3‑2 vote. It also approved several consent‑business items, including a wellness services agreement with Hy‑Vee, a letter of support for the Great River Bluffs State Park boundary adjustment, a professional service agreement with Jacqueline Henderson, and updates to the fee schedule. The board decommissioned failing greenhouses at Stone Point Park and Community Gardens, rescinded a motion to use excess feedlot funds for a manure‑management plan, and tabled removal of public Zoom links from the county website.

• Approved AFSCME Courthouse Unit Amendment 2025‑2027 (3‑2)
• Approved Wellness Services Agreement with Hy‑Vee (5‑0)
• Approved Letter of Support for Great River Bluffs State Park boundary adjustment (5‑0)
• Approved Professional Service Agreement with Jacqueline Henderson (5‑0)
• Approved Updates to Fee Schedule (5‑0)
• Approved decommissioning of failing greenhouses at Stone Point Park and Community Gardens (consensus)
• Rescinded motion to use excess feedlot funds for manure‑management plan updates (consensus)
• Tabled removal of public Zoom links from County Board website (consensus)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review three petitions for Conditional/Interim Use Permits. Two requests involve the construction of 300-foot guyed wireless communication towers, and one is for a new schoolhouse in an Agricultural/Resource Conservation district.

• Petition PC 08-21-25-01: 300-foot guyed wireless tower on Twyla Peterson's property in Utica Township
• Petition PC 08-21-25-02: 300-foot guyed wireless tower on Beverly Dulek's property
• Petition PC 08-21-25-03: New schoolhouse in the Agricultural/Resource Conservation Zoning District (Jake and Mary Yoder)
• Petition PC 08-21-25-04: Residential building site request withdrawn by Jeremy Allen on August 19, 2025

The commission opened and closed public hearings for two wireless tower petitions (PC 08-21-25-01 and PC 08-21-25-02). It adopted Findings of Fact and voted to recommend approval of each Conditional Use Permit to the Winona County Board, with the conditions presented. All votes on these actions were unanimous (8‑0).

• Approved agenda (All 7)
• Approved July 17, 2025 minutes (All 7)
• Opened public hearing for petition PC 08-21-25-01 (All 8)
• Closed public hearing for petition PC 08-21-25-01 (All 8)
• Adopted Findings of Fact and recommended approval of PC 08-21-25-01 (All 8)
• Opened public hearing for petition PC 08-21-25-02 (All 8)
• Closed public hearing for petition PC 08-21-25-02 (All 8)
• Adopted Findings of Fact and recommended approval of PC 08-21-25-02 (All 8)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will review two petitions for variances to allow buildings to be located closer to feedlots than current zoning ordinances permit. Both requests involve agricultural properties and the placement of new structures.

• Petition by Mark & Angela Clark and Becky Clark for a farm employee dwelling 565 feet from a feedlot (1,000 feet required) at 18496 County Rd 114
• Petition by Jake and Mary Yoder for a schoolhouse 260 feet from a feedlot (500 feet required)

The Board opened and closed public hearings for two variance petitions, then approved both variances unanimously. The Clark petition permits a farm dwelling to be sited 565 ft from a feedlot instead of the required 1000 ft. The Yoder petition permits a schoolhouse to be sited 260 ft from a feedlot instead of the required 500 ft. All motions passed with unanimous votes.

• Opened public hearing on Clark variance (motion Lynn Redig, seconded Kelsey Fitzgerald) – unanimous
• Closed public hearing on Clark variance (motion Amy Cordry, seconded Lynn Redig) – unanimous
• Approved Clark variance allowing dwelling 565 ft from feedlot (motion Amy Cordry, seconded Kelsey Fitzgerald) – unanimous
• Opened public hearing on Yoder variance (motion Kelsey Fitzgerald, seconded Amy Cordry) – unanimous
• Closed public hearing on Yoder variance (motion Kelsey Fitzgerald, seconded Lynn Redig) – unanimous
• Approved Yoder variance allowing schoolhouse 260 ft from feedlot (motion Lynn Redig, seconded Amy Cordry) – unanimous

Stockton Rollingstone Minnesota City Watershed District

The Stockton Rollingstone Minnesota City Watershed District met to review financial audits and pond maintenance. Members discussed an upcoming site meeting for the Rollingstone pond and approved a new pond clean out.

• Approval of pond clean out for Joel Speltz
• Status update on audit by Peterson company
• Planned August 20 meeting at Rollingstone pond site with DNR and City of Rollingstone Mayor

The board approved the agenda, the June and July meeting minutes, and the treasurer's report, all as read. The Watershed District rules were tabled until the county water planner can attend. A new approval was recorded for a pond clean‑out at the Joel Speltz pond. An update meeting at Rollingstone Pond is scheduled for August 20.

• Agenda approved (as read)
• June minutes approved (as read)
• July minutes approved (as read)
• Treasurer's report approved (as read)
• WSD rules tabled until county water planner attendance
• Approved pond clean‑out for Joel Speltz pond (no vote recorded)

Winona County Board

The Board of Commissioners will consider several conditional use permits, transportation agreements for foster care, and right-of-way acquisition for CSAH 19. The meeting includes a working session to discuss the 2026 draft budget and updates on a joint public safety facility.

• Conditional Use Permits for William and Carol Ebert and Heather and Garret Johnson
• Right-of-way acquisition for CSAH 19
• Transportation agreements with Riverway Learning Community ISD #4064, Lewiston-Altura Public Schools ISD #857, and La Crescent-Hokah Public Schools
• Recovery Corp Program and fee with AmeriCorps for Opioid Settlement Committee
• DNR presentation on Great River Bluffs State Park statutory boundary adjustment

The Winona County Board approved several items, including the acquisition of land for County State‑Aid Highway 19, a prioritized bridge replacement list, and multiple conditional use permits and contract renewals. It also approved the July 22, 2025 meeting minutes, the agenda, and confirmed June 2025 disbursements. The meeting was adjourned at 9:35 a.m.

• Approved July 22, 2025 Board minutes (vote 5‑0)
• Approved agenda as presented (vote 5‑0)
• Approved consent business items: conditional use permits, contract renewals, etc.
• Approved Resolution to acquire right‑of‑way for CSAH 19
• Approved Prioritized Bridge Replacement List resolution
• Authorized disposal of excess furniture and equipment
• Confirmed payment of June 2025 disbursements (vote 5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:35 a.m. (vote 5‑0)

Road & Bridge Committee

The committee will discuss updates to the Road and Bridge 5-year Capital Improvement Program and proposed improvements to Stone Point Rd. Members will also consider a request for an ATV Grant-in-Aid trail on County Roads 113 and 124.

• Updates to the Road and Bridge 5-year Capital Improvement Program
• Proposed Stone Point Rd improvements and transfer to Wilson Township
• Possible ATV Grant-in-Aid trail request for Co Rds 113 and 124
• Review of February 18, 2025 meeting minutes

Economic Development Authority Board

The Winona County Economic Development Authority will meet to review financial reports, hear a Revolving Loan Fund committee recommendation on a $200,000 loan for Keeling LLC, and discuss rescheduling November and December meetings due to holidays. The board also plans to approve minutes from the June 26 meeting and receive financial updates.

• RLF Loan Committee recommendation for $200,000 loan to Keeling LLC
• Approval of June 26, 2025 meeting minutes
• Reschedule November and December 2025 EDA meetings due to holidays
• EDA Revolving Loan balance update to $1,240,215.08

The Economic Development Authority approved its agenda, the June 26 2025 minutes, and the financial reports, each by unanimous yes votes. It also approved a $200,000 Rural Loan Fund loan to Gavin Keeling and Kristina Berge, with all members voting yes and Dave Pierret abstaining. The board rescheduled its November and December meetings to November 17 and December 15, 2025, and adjourned at 4:48 p.m.

• Approved agenda (vote: Yes – All)
• Approved June 26 2025 minutes (vote: Yes – All)
• Approved financial reports (vote: Yes – All)
• Approved $200,000 RLF loan to Gavin Keeling and Kristina Berge (vote: Yes – All, Dave Pierret abstained)
• Rescheduled November meeting to Monday, November 17, 2025 at 4:30 p.m.
• Rescheduled December meeting to Monday, December 15, 2025 at 4:30 p.m.
• Adjourned meeting at 4:48 p.m. (vote: Yes – All)

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

The Winona County Policy Committee will review financial reports and invoices from May through July 2025. The group will discuss a request to extend a grant that expires on December 31, 2025, by one year. The committee will also review meeting summaries regarding stream assessments and provide a site tour of a restoration project.

• Review financial reports and invoices (May - July 2025)
• Discuss FY23 Grant Amendment Request to extend expiration to December 31, 2026
• Review Stream Subcommittee meeting summary regarding Pine Creek and Rollingstone Creek assessments
• Acknowledge Indemnification/Liability Language Clarification in Sub-agreements
• Site visit to St Charles Whitewater Stream Restoration Project

The committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the May 12, 2025 minutes. It also approved a motion to acknowledge the financial statement and invoices. A unanimous motion was passed asking Root River SWCD to request a grant amendment that would extend the FY23 WBIF grant end date to 2026. The committee agreed to revisit indemnification language at its November meeting.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved May 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Acknowledged financial statement and invoices (unanimous)
• Approved request for Root River SWCD to seek FY23 WBIF grant extension to 2026 (unanimous)
• Agreed to consider clarifying indemnification language at next meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The Parks & Environment Advisory Committee will meet to review proposals for using American Rescue Plan funds at Apple Blossom Park. The body will also discuss a comprehensive plan survey and receive staffing updates.

• Review of American Rescue Plan funding proposals for Apple Blossom Park
• Comprehensive Plan Survey presentation by Lew Overhaug
• Staffing updates from Ross Dunsmoor
• Progress reports for Stone Point Park, Apple Blossom Park, and Farmers Park

The committee voted to approve the meeting agenda and the minutes from June 3, 2025, with all members in favor. The meeting was then adjourned by motion. No other formal decisions were recorded.

• Approved agenda (motion by Dwayne Voegeli, seconded by Dale Hadler; vote: Yes — All)
• Approved June 3, 2025 minutes (motion by Anne Morse, seconded by Dwayne Voegeli; vote: Yes — All)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Dale Hadler, seconded by Amanda Gentry)

Emergency Coordinating Committee

The committee will review agency updates and recap the June 2025 'I Love You Guys' training. Members will discuss the September 13, 2025 Full Scale exercise, the Hazard Mitigation Plan, and the Emergency Plan.

• Recap of June 2025 'I Love You Guys' training
• Planning for September 13, 2025 Full Scale exercise
• Hazard Mitigation Plan discussion
• Emergency Plan discussion

Economic Development Authority Board

The Economic Development Authority meeting scheduled for July 24, 2025, was cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services. No items were decided or discussed.

Winona County Board

The Board of Commissioners will determine the 2026 SEMMCHRA allocation and a preliminary levy resolution. Members will also discuss resources for warming shelters and next steps for a joint public safety facility with the City of Winona.

• Preliminary 2026 levy resolution and SEMMCHRA allocation
• Joint Public Safety Facility coordination with City of Winona
• State of Minnesota 2025-2026 Cooperative Agreement to fund Treatment Court
• Non-Union Wage Grid Amendment 2025-2027
• Purchase of Service Agreement with Olmsted County for specialized case management

The Winona County Board approved several agreements and policy updates, including a treatment‑court funding agreement and updated tobacco, overtime, and wage‑grid policies. It accepted $7,592.60 in cash donations received between April and June 2025. The board rejected a $144,234 preliminary levy but approved a $130,000 levy for the 2026 SEMMCHRA allocation. All actions were voted on and recorded in the minutes.

• Approved Minnesota 2025‑2026 Cooperative Agreement to fund Treatment Court (Yes – 5)
• Approved renewal of service agreement with Olmsted County for specialized case management (Yes – 5)
• Approved Updated Tobacco Policy 6.10 (Yes – 5)
• Approved Updated Overtime and Compensatory Time Policy 3.10 (Yes – 5)
• Approved Non‑Union Wage Grid Amendment 2025‑2027 (Yes – 5)
• Approved Resolution accepting $7,592.60 in donations received 4/1/2025‑6/30/2025 (Yes – 5)
• Rejected 2026 SEMMCHRA Allocation and Preliminary Levy Resolution for $144,234 (Yes – 2; No – 3)
• Approved 2026 SEMMCHRA Allocation and Preliminary Levy Resolution for $130,000 (Yes – 3; No – 2)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review two petitions for Conditional/Interim Use Permits in the Agricultural/Resource Conservation zoning district. These include a request for a new home on a small parcel and a request for a cannabis cultivation operation.

• Petition PC 07-17-25-01: Request by Andrew Pretasky to build a single-family 'barn dominium' on a proposed 10-acre parcel in New Hartford Township
• Petition PC 07-17-25-02: Request by Heather and Garret Johnson for a cannabis cultivation operation in the A/RC Zoning District

The commission unanimously approved its agenda and the June 18 minutes. It opened and then closed the public hearing on the residential conditional‑use petition (PC 07‑17‑25‑01). The commission adopted Findings of Fact and unanimously recommended that the County Board approve the conditional use permit, which will be placed on the August 12 board agenda. No decision was made on the cannabis cultivation petition (PC 07‑17‑25‑02).

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved June 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing on residential conditional use petition PC 07‑17‑25‑01 (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on residential conditional use petition PC 07‑17‑25‑01 (unanimous)
• Adopted Findings of Fact and recommended approval of the conditional use permit to County Board (unanimous)
• No action taken on cannabis cultivation petition PC 07‑17‑25‑02 (discussion only)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will review a petition from Lee and Kathy Groebner (via Colton Pearson) to build a single-family dwelling on a 2-acre parcel. The request seeks a variance to allow construction on class I-III prime soils, which is generally restricted by county zoning ordinance.

• Petition BOA 07-17-25-01: Variance for single-family dwelling on class I-III soils
• Proposed structure: 80’ X 60’ dwelling and attached garage
• Location: 2-acre parcel on the west side of County Road 37
• Requirement: Access Permit from the Winona County Highway Department for new driveway

The board opened a public hearing on a petition to permit a single‑family dwelling on prime soils in the Agricultural/Resource Conservation District. After hearing, the board closed the hearing and voted unanimously to approve the variance with conditions. The board also approved its agenda, the June 18, 2025 minutes, and then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (motion Ed Walsh, second Lynn Redig) – unanimous
• Approved June 18, 2025 minutes (motion Kelsey Fitzgerald, second Amy Cordry) – unanimous
• Opened public hearing on variance petition (motion Lynn Redig, second Ed Walsh) – unanimous
• Closed public hearing (motion Amy Cordry, second Lynn Redig) – unanimous
• Approved variance for single‑family dwelling on class I‑III soils (motion Ed Walsh, second Kelsey Fitzgerald) – unanimous
• Adjourned meeting (motion Amy Cordry, second Ed Walsh) – unanimous

Extension Committee

The committee is meeting to receive program updates and discuss budget recommendations for the County Extension Department. The session includes reports on 4-H Youth Development and Master Gardener Volunteers.

• Annual Budget Recommendations
• 4-H Youth Development program updates
• Master Gardener Volunteers program updates
• Regional Director updates

The Winona County Extension Committee approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the previous meeting. No vote counts were recorded. The committee also scheduled the next meeting for September 25, 2025 at 5 pm. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved agenda (no vote tally provided)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (no vote tally provided)
• Set next meeting for Sept 25, 2025 at 5 pm

Stockton Rollingstone Minnesota City Watershed District

The Stockton-Rollingstone-Minnesota City Watershed District will discuss the 2024 audit and district rules. The body is reviewing the status of pond clean outs and several individual applications.

• Review of 2024 audit
• Discussion of WSD Rules
• Status of Rollingstone ponds clean outs
• Approval status of applications for Jason Speltz, Michael Butenhoff, and Richard Hauser

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board of Commissioners meets to act on department recommendations including a gambling permit, renew a fraud prevention agreement, and discuss American Rescue Plan funding for Apple Blossom Park. The board will also receive presentations on regional medical examiner reports and outside agency budget requests.

• Approval of LG220 Gambling Application for Exempt Permits for Hidden Valley Fire and Rescue
• Renewal of Regional Administrative Agency Cooperative Agreement for Fraud Prevention Investigation Program
• Interim Use Permit for Society of Saint Pius X
• Discussion on use of American Rescue Plan Funding at Apple Blossom Park
• Presentation from Southern MN Regional Medical Examiner's Office 2024 Annual Report

The board approved payment of $27,542,357.57 to 296 vendors for the period June 18–July 1, 2025. It also approved several consent‑business items, including a gambling permit for Hidden Valley Fire and Rescue, a renewal of a fraud‑prevention cooperative agreement, and an interim use permit for the Society of Saint Pius X. The county administrator’s compensation was set at $206,044 after a 3‑2 vote. The board approved the June 24 and April 17 session minutes and amended the agenda order.

• Approved $27,542,357.57 vendor payments (296 vendors) – Yes 5
• Approved LG220 gambling exempt permit for Hidden Valley Fire & Rescue – Yes 5
• Approved renewal of Regional Administrative Agency fraud‑prevention program – Yes 5
• Approved interim use permit for Society of Saint Pius X – Yes 5
• Approved County Administrator compensation $206,044 – Yes 3; No 2
• Approved closed‑session minutes dated June 24, 2025 – Yes 5
• Approved Board of Appeal and Equalization minutes dated June 24, 2025 – Yes 5
• Approved Board of Adjustment minutes (April 17) and Planning Commission minutes (March 20) – Yes 5

Economic Development Authority Board

The Winona County Economic Development Authority will review a loan application from GC Partners, LLC. The board will also receive financial reports and loan updates for April and May 2025.

• RLF Loan Committee recommendation for GC Partners, LLC application

The Winona County Economic Development Authority approved its agenda, the minutes from April 24, 2025, and the financial reports. It voted to approve a $200,000 Rural Loan Fund loan to GC Partners LLC. The board also noted a rescheduled market closing and upcoming construction by KickAss Snacks LLC.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April 24 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial reports (unanimous)
• Approved $200,000 RLF loan to GC Partners LLC (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Emergency Coordinating Committee

The Winona County Emergency Coordinating Committee will convene to receive agency updates, recap June 2025 I Love You Guys training, and preview the Full Scale Fall 2025 exercise. Members will also discuss the county’s Hazard Mitigation Plan and Emergency Plan before planning Public Safety Day at the Winona County Fair on July 9th.

• I Love You Guys June 2025 training recap
• Full Scale Fall 2025 emergency exercise preview
• Hazard Mitigation Plan discussion
• Emergency Plan discussion
• Public Safety Day at Winona County Fair – July 9th

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board of Commissioners will meet to evaluate the County Administrator's performance in a closed session. The public session includes voting on several contract renewals, grant applications, and personnel appointments.

• Conditional Use Permit for Thomas and Linda Christophersen
• Contract renewal with Granicus
• Application for Minnesota Office of Justice Programs Community Crime Intervention and Prevention Grant
• Professional Services Agreement with Mower County for interim assessor appointment
• Contract with Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center for post-incarceration care coordination

The Winona County Board approved a series of departmental recommendations. Items included a conditional use permit, contract renewals, a veterans services officer reappointment, a grant application, an interim assessor agreement, foster‑care transportation agreements, and a mental‑health services contract. The board also acknowledged finance updates and wrote off uncollectible accounts.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Thomas and Linda Christophersen (Planning & Env. Services)
• Approved Contract Renewal with Granicus (Administration)
• Approved Resolution to Reappoint Veterans Services Officer (Administration)
• Approved Application for Minnesota Office of Justice Programs Community Crime Intervention and Prevention Grant (Attorney)
• Approved Interim Assessor Appointment and Professional Services Agreement with Mower County (Auditor‑Treasurer)
• Approved Renewal of Service and Business Associate Agreements with Plainview‑Elgin‑Millville School District for foster‑care transportation (Health and Human Services)
• Approved Renewal of Service and Business Associate Agreements with Winona Area Public Schools for foster‑care transportation (Health and Human Services)
• Approved Contract with Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center for post‑incarceration care coordination (Health and Human Services)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review two petitions for Conditional/Interim Use Permits. One request involves land disturbance for a state highway project, and the other concerns a cannabis cultivation operation.

• Petition by Society of Saint Pius X & Mathiowetz Construction to place 30,000 cubic yards of fill at 21258 Quarry Hill Road for the Mn DOT Hwy 14 project
• Petition by Thomas & Linda Christopherson (d/b/a Fairwater Farm LLC) for a cannabis cultivation operation in the A/RC Zoning District

The Planning Commission held public hearings on two petitions and adopted findings of fact for each. It unanimously recommended that the County Board approve an interim use permit for a land‑disturbance project supporting the MnDOT Highway 14 upgrade, with conditions. It also recommended approval of a conditional use permit for a cannabis cultivation operation in the Agricultural‑Resource Conservation district, passing by a 5‑yes, 1‑abstain vote. Both recommendations will be presented to the County Board at its July 8, 2025 meeting.

• Approved amended agenda (including Board of Adjustment update) – vote unanimous
• Opened public hearing on land‑disturbance interim use permit – vote unanimous
• Closed public hearing on land‑disturbance interim use permit – vote unanimous
• Adopted findings of fact and recommended County Board approve interim use permit for Hwy 14 project – vote unanimous
• Opened public hearing on cannabis cultivation conditional use permit – vote unanimous
• Closed public hearing on cannabis cultivation conditional use permit – vote unanimous
• Adopted findings of fact and recommended County Board approve cannabis cultivation permit – vote 5‑yes, 1‑abstain
• Scheduled recommendation for interim use permit to appear on County Board agenda July 8, 2025

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will review a petition from Chris and Elsa Roth to build a home closer to a neighboring feedlot than zoning laws typically allow. The board will determine if the request meets eight specific approval criteria for granting a variance.

• Petition (Docket # BOA 06-18-25-01) to allow a 770-foot setback from a feedlot instead of the required 1000-foot setback per Ordinance 8.5.1(1)(c)

Board of Appeal & Equalization

The Board will meet to hear and act on property owner appeals and review the Assessor's 2025 Report. The body will also act on the Assessor's Consent Change List and elect a meeting chair and secretary.

• Property owners appeals hearings and actions
• Review of Assessor's 2025 Report
• Action on Assessor's Consent Change List
• Election of Meeting Chair and Secretary

The board nominated Commissioner Marcia Ward as Chair and Commissioner Greg Olson as Secretary, each approved by a vote of 5-0. The Assessor’s Consent Change Request was approved, reducing the values of three parcels: 29.099.0131 to $609,800, 29.010.0520 to $98,400, and 32.455.0110 to $77,200 (vote 4-0). No property‑owner appeals were heard, and the meeting was adjourned at 7:04 p.m.

• Nominated Marcia Ward as Chair (approved 5-0)
• Nominated Greg Olson as Secretary (approved 5-0)
• Approved Assessor’s Consent Change Request for three parcels (vote 4-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (approved 4-0)

Stockton Rollingstone Minnesota City Watershed District

The Stockton-Rollingstone-Minnesota City Watershed District will meet to review the 2024 audit and discuss district rules and bylaws. The body is also reviewing applications for pond clean outs and cover crop assistance.

• 2024 audit conducted by Peterson Company
• Review of WSD Rules and Bylaws
• Status of Rollingstone ponds and pond clean out applications
• Approved cover crop assistance for Patrick Kalmes

The board approved the agenda, the May meeting minutes, and the treasurer's report. All board members approved and signed the district bylaws. The WSD rules were tabled until the next meeting. The auditor was given a June 30, 2025 deadline for missing information, with the treasurer to upload it to a Peterson Company drop box.

• Agenda approved as read
• May meeting minutes approved as read
• Treasurer's report approved as read
• Bylaws approved and signed by all board members
• WSD rules tabled until next month meeting
• Auditor deadline set for June 30, 2025; Treasurer to send information to drop box

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board of Commissioners will meet to review several department recommendations. The board is deciding on new labor agreements for courthouse and detention staff, as well as various contract renewals and grants.

• AFSCME Courthouse Labor Agreement 2025-2027
• LELS 536 (Detention Deputies and Transport Officers) Labor Agreement 2025-2027
• Renewal of Liquor On/Off-sale and Beer Off-Sale Licenses
• Contract renewal with Granicus
• 2025 State of Minnesota Boat and Water Safety Grant Agreement

The Winona County Board approved the Performance Measures Resolution, continuing the county’s participation in the state’s performance measurement program. It also approved labor agreements for the courthouse and detention deputies, and confirmed payment of $1,258,487.05 in disbursements. The board tabled the contract renewal with Granicus and approved various licensing, well‑mitigation, and emergency‑management agreements. All actions were taken with recorded votes where noted.

• Approved Performance Measures Resolution (consent business) – approved
• Confirmed payment of $1,258,487.05 in disbursements – Vote: Yes –5
• Tabled Contract Renewal with Granicus – Vote: Yes –5
• Approved AFSCME Courthouse Labor Agreement 2025-2027 – Vote: Yes –4; No –1
• Approved LELS 536 Detention Deputies and Transport Officers Labor Agreement 2025-2027 – Vote: Yes –4; No –1
• Approved renewal of liquor on/off‑sale and beer off‑sale licenses – approved
• Approved amendment to private well mitigation sub‑agreement with Olmsted Soil and Water Conservation District – approved
• Approved Joint Powers Agreement for Southeast Minnesota Homeland Security Emergency Management – approved

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The Parks & Environment Advisory Committee will discuss a recommendation for an Operations Outline for the County Board. The body will also review EPA nitrate response work and funding options for Apple Blossom Park.

• Recommendation of the Outline of Operations for County Board approval
• Review of American Rescue Plan funds for Apple Blossom Park
• Update on EPA Nitrate Response Work
• Progress reports for Stone Point Park, Apple Blossom Park, and Farmers Park

The committee approved the agenda amendment and the April 1, 2025 minutes unanimously. It moved the Outline of Operations forward and directed staff to handle the EPA nitrate response next steps. Members formed a subcommittee to review American Rescue Plan fund options for Apple Blossom Park and voted to remove the park’s zipline. The meeting was adjourned at 5:53 p.m.

• Amended agenda location to COB (vote: Yes — All)
• Approved April 1, 2025 minutes (vote: Yes — All)
• Moved Outline of Operations forward (vote: Yes — All)
• Directed staff to handle EPA nitrate response next steps (no vote recorded)
• Formed subcommittee to review ARP fund options for Apple Blossom Park (no vote recorded)
• Voted to remove the zipline at Apple Blossom Park (vote: Yes — All)
• Adjourned meeting (vote: Yes — All)

Emergency Coordinating Committee

The committee will meet to review agency updates and coordinate upcoming emergency training and public safety events. Discussions include the Hazard Mitigation Plan and community outreach activities.

• I Love You Guys training (June 2025)
• Full Scale training (Fall 2025)
• Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Toys for Tots Basketball Game
• Public Safety Day at the Winona County Fair

Winona County Board

The Board of Commissioners will meet to vote on several service contracts and infrastructure bids. The session includes discussions on appointing a Planning and Environmental Services Director and members for the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee.

• Award bid for 2025 Pavement Markings to Sir Lines-A-Lot
• Award bid for Aggregate Shouldering to Bruening Rock Products
• Approve Non-Union Wage Grids for 2025-2027
• Appoint Planning and Environmental Services Director
• Approve EpicCare Link Access Agreement with Emplify

The Winona County Board approved multiple consent‑business contracts, including EpicCare, BOLDPlanning, pavement markings and aggregate contracts, and confirmed disbursements of $1.928 million. It also approved the 2025‑2027 non‑union wage‑grid plan (4‑1). The Board appointed 18 members and two commissioners to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee and appointed Ross Dunsmoor as Planning and Environmental Services Director.

• Approved EpicCare Link Access Agreement with Emplify – Yes 5
• Approved Addendum to BOLDPlanning emergency‑plan contract – Yes 5
• Awarded 2025 pavement‑markings contract to Sir Lines‑A‑Lot – Yes 5
• Awarded aggregate shouldering contract to Bruening Rock Products – Yes 5
• Approved Non‑Union Wage Grids 2025‑2027 – Yes 4, No 1
• Appointed 18 members to Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee – Yes 5
• Appointed Ross Dunsmoor as Planning and Environmental Services Director – Yes 5
• Approved Health and Human Services Advisory Committee structure – Yes 5

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The board will discuss the 2026 draft budget proposal and 2024 audit proposals. Members are also considering grant amendments and sub-agreements for well sealing and nitrogen fertilizer management.

• 2026 Draft Budget Proposal
• 2024 Audit Proposals
• Amendment to Local Advisory Team Grant to extend expiration to June 30, 2027
• Well Sealing Grant sub-agreements with Olmsted, Wabasha, and Winona County SWCDs
• Bills payable totaling $5,182.25

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board voted unanimously on several items, including the 2026 draft budget, a 2024 audit proposal, and multiple well‑sealing agreements. It also adopted an amendment to extend a grant and authorized interim pre‑approval authority for well‑sealing contracts. All motions passed with a Yes—All vote.

• Approved minutes of February 20, 2025 (Yes — All)
• Approved agenda amendment to let Sheila Harmes pre‑approve well sealing contracts (Yes — All)
• Approved consent items (Yes — All)
• Approved 2024 audit proposal by Katie Jacobson (Yes — All)
• Approved 2026 draft budget proposal (Yes — All)
• Approved two‑year amendment to the Local Advisory Team grant (Yes — All)
• Approved sub‑agreements with Olmsted, Wabasha, and Winona counties for the Whitewater Well Sealing Grant (Yes — All)
• Approved allowing Sheila Harmes to pre‑approve well sealing grants between meetings (Yes — All)

Economic Development Authority Board

The Economic Development Authority meeting scheduled for May 22, 2025, has been cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services.

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Health & Human Services Advisory Committee will discuss objectives and suggestions for utilizing several public health funding sources. The body is reviewing how to apply specific grants and settlement funds to county services.

• Foundational Public Health Responsibilities Grant (FPHR)
• Public Health Emergency Preparedness Response Sustainability Grant (RSG)
• Cannabis & Substance Use Prevention Grant (CSUP)
• Opioid Settlement Funds
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and CDC Infrastructure Grant

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission meeting scheduled for May 15, 2025, has been cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services because there were no applications to review. The next regular meeting is set for June 18, 2025 (third Wednesday due to the Juneteenth holiday).

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for May 15, 2025, was cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services. The cancellation is due to a lack of applications.

Stockton Rollingstone Minnesota City Watershed District

The Stockton-Rollingstone-Minnesota City Watershed District will meet to discuss district rules, bylaws, and the 2024 audit. The body will review the status of pond clean out projects and scholarship applications.

• Review of 2024 audit
• Discussion of WSD Rules and Bylaws
• Status of Rollingstone ponds
• Review of scholarship applications for Richard Hauser, Tom Lozenski, Donna Freisen, Mike Reed, Diane Dingfelder, and Rick Cichon
• Cover crop assistance for Patrick Kalmes

The board approved the agenda, the April meeting minutes, and the treasurer’s report, all as read. A request for financial assistance for cover‑crop seed was approved up to $6,000. The board awarded a $500 scholarship to Gavein Salvetti and decided to request Wi‑Fi service for Rollingstone Community School from the city clerk. It also assigned Sheila Harmes to work on watershed‑district rules and directed that the bylaws be edited to reflect payment changes for board members.

• Agenda approved (as read)
• April meeting minutes approved (as read)
• Treasurer's report approved (as read)
• Financial assistance for cover‑crop seed approved up to $6,000
• Scholarship of $500 awarded to Gavein Salvetti
• Wi‑Fi for Rollingstone Community School to be requested from city clerk
• Sheila Harmes assigned to work on WSD rules
• Bylaws to be edited to cover payment changes for board members

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board of Commissioners will meet to vote on labor agreements for dispatchers and Local 49er's. The board will also discuss potential zoning changes for private well testing and the use of 2025 SAHA funds.

• Labor Agreement 2025-2027 for LELS 537 (Dispatchers)
• Labor Agreement 2025-2027 for Local 49er's
• Funding request for Local Housing Trust Fund
• Proposed zoning ordinance change requiring private well tests prior to property sale
• Closed session regarding purchase or sale of property at 121 Huff Street

The Winona County Board approved a funding request for the Local Housing Trust Fund and adopted resolutions honoring law enforcement and recognizing National Treatment Court Month. It also approved several labor agreements, a procurement recommendation, and an amendment to a state mental‑health grant. By consensus the Board eliminated the Sentencing to Service program. All actions were taken with recorded vote totals.

• Approved Funding Request for Local Housing Trust Fund (5-0)
• Approved Resolution proclaiming May 14, 2025 Law Enforcement Memorial Day (5-0)
• Approved Resolution establishing National Treatment Court Month (5-0)
• Approved Recommendation for North Risk Partners to Complete Request for Proposals (4-1)
• Approved Amendment #1 for Minnesota Dept. of Human Services Adult Mental Health Grant (5-0)
• Approved LELS 537 (Dispatchers) Labor Agreement 2025-2027 (4-1)
• Approved Local 49er's Labor Agreement 2025-2027 (4-1)
• Eliminated Sentencing to Service Program by consensus

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

The Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan Policy Committee meets to discuss and approve agenda, minutes, and financial reports. Informational items include a Technical Advisory Committee update, plan goals tracking, and a street sweeping study by the City of La Crescent. The committee will also hear a presentation on Olmsted SWCD 2024 projects and plan future meetings.

• Approve minutes from February 10, 2025
• Acknowledge financial report and invoices for March–April 2025 (FY 23 and FY 25)
• Street sweeping study presented by Jason Ludwigson, City of La Crescent
• Olmsted SWCD 2024 projects presentation by Skip Langer
• WinLaC Plan Goals Tracking Update

The WinLaC Policy Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda. It also unanimously approved the minutes from the February 10, 2025 meeting. Finally, the committee unanimously approved the acknowledgment of the financial statement and invoices. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved February 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved acknowledgment of financial statement and invoices (unanimous)

Economic Development Authority Board

The Winona County Economic Development Authority will review a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) committee recommendation for KickAss Beef Jerky. The board will also receive financial reports and an update regarding Z and A Country Market, LLC.

• RLF Loan Committee Recommendation for KickAss Beef Jerky application
• Update on Z and A Country Market, LLC
• Financial reports and loan updates for February and March 2025

The board approved its agenda and the minutes from the January 23, 2025 meeting. The financial reports for January 2025 were approved. Members approved the revisions to the Revolving Loan Fund guidelines and will forward the document to DEED for final approval. The meeting was adjourned at 5:31 p.m.

• Approved agenda (motion by Dwayne Voegeli, seconded by Kyle Rupprecht, vote: all yes)
• Approved minutes for Jan 23 2025 (motion by Mike Kennedy, seconded by Dwayne Voegeli, vote: all yes)
• Approved January 2025 financial reports (motion by Mike Kennedy, seconded by Kyle Rupprecht, vote: all yes)
• Approved Revolving Loan Fund guideline revisions (no vote recorded, decision noted in minutes)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Dwayne Voegeli, seconded by Greg Olson, vote: all yes)

Emergency Coordinating Committee

The Winona County Emergency Coordinating Committee will hear agency updates, plan training sessions including the I Love You Guys program and ARMER Radio training, and review the Hazard Mitigation Plan. They will also coordinate Public Safety Day at the Winona County Fair. The meeting is largely procedural and discussion-based.

• Discussion of 2025 training: I Love You Guys June 2025 and ARMER Radio Training
• Review of Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Planning for Public Safety Day at the Winona County Fair
• Agency and department updates and introductions
• Open discussion and adjournment

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will receive an update on nitrates in groundwater, discuss a potential zoning ordinance change requiring private well tests before property sales, and review a draft cannabis business registration ordinance. Consent items include approving the 2025 Strategic Plan, awarding a fuel supply bid, and accepting a bridge replacement grant.

• Receive update from staff regarding nitrates in groundwater (p.9)
• Discuss potential zoning ordinance change requiring private well test prior to property sale (p.11)
• Review/approve draft cannabis business registration ordinance (p.155)
• Approve 2025 Strategic Plan (p.22)
• Approve agreement for state local bridge replacement program grant for CSAH 25 bridge (p.64)

The board approved the State Local Bridge Replacement Program grant of $480,113 for CSAH 25 Bridge No. 85584. It also adopted an amendment to the 2025 budget, raising the total budget to $82,404,304, and approved a draft cannabis business registration ordinance. Additional actions included approving several contracts and rejecting bids for the Apple Blossom Park Pavilion project.

• Approved $480,113 grant for CSAH 25 Bridge (Resolution #2025-16) – approved (consent business)
• Approved amendment to 2025 budget, total $82,404,304 (Resolution #2025-15) – approved (consent business)
• Approved Draft Cannabis Business Registration Ordinance – Yes –5
• Approved Contract with Ciel Strategic Innovations for HHS evaluation – Yes –4; No –1
• Approved Updates to Fee Schedule – Yes –5
• Approved Contract with Alliance for Abuse Prevention for cannabis and substance use prevention – approved (consent business)
• Rejected bids for Apple Blossom Park Pavilion Project and tabled MNDNR Outdoor Recreation Grant – Yes –3; No –2
• Confirmed payment of disbursements totaling $1,464,162.39 – Yes –5

Planning Commission

The scheduled April 17, 2025, meeting of the Winona County Planning Commission has been cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services. The next meeting is scheduled for May 15, 2025, at 7:00 pm. No items were on the agenda.

• Meeting cancelled – no items considered

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on three variance petitions. Each seeks to allow a single-family dwelling on prime soils (Class I-III) within the Agricultural/Resource Conservation District, where normally only non-prime soils are permitted. One petition also requests a reduced 80-foot setback from State Highway 14 instead of the required 130 feet. Staff analysis supports the first petition based on practical difficulties and the former railroad parcel's history.

• Docket BOA 04-17-25-01: Variance for 80-ft Highway 14 setback (130 ft required) and dwelling on prime soils; applicant Mark Lehnertz, landowners John & Rosalinda Decker.
• Docket BOA 04-17-25-02: Variance for dwelling on prime soils by Ben & Elle Tibor (landowners Thomas George Tibor & Marie Teresa Tibor Trust).
• Docket BOA 04-17-25-03: Variance for dwelling on prime soils by Adam and Marci Skemp; includes signed township form.
• All three petitions are located in St. Charles Township within the Agricultural/Resource Conservation District.
• Legal notice published in Winona Post; 45 notices mailed to neighbors; no public comments received as of report date.

The Winona County Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a variance for John & Rosalinda Decker and Mark Lehnertz to build a shed with an 80‑foot setback from State Highway 14 and a single‑family dwelling on prime soils. The board also unanimously approved a variance for the Tibor Trust to construct a single‑family dwelling on prime soils after a friendly amendment to the Findings of Fact. All related public hearings were opened and closed by unanimous vote.

• Approved agenda (Yes — All)
• Approved January 16, 2025 minutes (Yes — All)
• Opened public hearing on Decker/Lehnertz variance (Yes — All)
• Closed public hearing on Decker/Lehnertz variance (Yes — All)
• Approved Decker/Lehnertz variance (Yes — All)
• Opened public hearing on Tibor variance (Yes — All)
• Closed public hearing on Tibor variance (Yes — All)
• Friendly amendment to Findings of Fact (Yes — 3; No — 2)

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

This is an organizational meeting of the Winona County Health & Human Services Advisory Committee. Items include electing a vice chair (chair was confirmed March 18), discussing a proposed two-subgroup structure (Public Health and Human Services), and setting the 2025 meeting schedule. No program or budget decisions are on the agenda.

• Election of Vice Chair (Chair Jackie Henderson already confirmed)
• Discussion of forming two subgroups: Public Health and Human Services
• Review of 2025 meeting frequency and calendar
• Committee focus areas discussion

Stockton Rollingstone Minnesota City Watershed District

The Stockton-Rollingstone-Minnesota City Watershed District will consider a presentation by Will Varela, discuss a watershed district scholarship, and review pond clean out projects. Clean outs have been approved for Jason Speltz, Michael Butenhoff, and Richard Hauser; Tom Lozenski's is not approved. Applications from Donna Freisen and Mike Reed have been received. The board will follow up on progress.

• Will Varela presentation
• Watershed district scholarship discussion
• Pond clean out approved for Jason Speltz
• Pond clean out approved for Michael Butenhoff
• Pond clean out approved for Richard Hauser

The board approved the prior meeting's minutes as read. The review of the watershed bylaws was tabled until members can read the new draft. The Watershed District scholarship will be awarded in May, pending additional information on the two applicants. The board also noted that approved pond clean‑outs have not yet been completed.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (as read)
• Tabled watershed bylaws review until members read new draft
• Scheduled Watershed District scholarship award for May, pending applicant info

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will consider a draft ordinance to regulate cannabis businesses, along with several land-use permits and construction contracts. The board also plans to discuss the 2025 strategic plan, appoint a citizen advisory committee member, and hold a closed session on labor negotiation strategies.

• Review/Approve draft Cannabis Business Registration Ordinance
• Approve Interim Use Permit for Gregory and Brandy Gommels
• Award bid for CSAH 25 Bridge Replacement to Structural Specialties, Inc.
• Award bid for 2025 Chip Seal Project to Scott Construction, Inc.
• Closed session to discuss strategies for labor negotiations (LELS 64, 536, 537, Local 49er's)

The Winona County Board approved the minutes from the March 25 meeting and an amended agenda. It adopted a detour agreement with MnDOT for Highway 14, transferred cash to the Health and Human Services Fund, and approved several permits and appointments. The board also tabled a draft cannabis business registration ordinance and adopted the 2025 Strategic Plan with added language on agriculture and small business.

• Approved County Board minutes dated March 25, 2025 (Yes – 5)
• Approved amended agenda moving items 6.15 and 6.1 to General Business (Yes – 5)
• Approved Detour Agreement No. 1059385 with MnDOT (Yes – 5)
• Approved transfer of cash from General Fund to Health and Human Services Fund (Yes – 5)
• Approved interim use permit for Gregory and Brandy Gommels (Yes – 5)
• Tabled Draft Cannabis Business Registration Ordinance to April 22 meeting (Yes – 5)
• Approved 2025 Strategic Plan with added agriculture, small business language (Yes – 5)
• Appointed Nicole Jabs to Extension Committee (Yes – 5)

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The committee will review a proposed operations outline and discuss the County Comprehensive Plan. The meeting also includes progress reports for Stone Point, Apple Blossom, and Farmers parks.

• Discussion of Proposed Outline of Operations
• Review of Comprehensive Plan elements
• Progress report on Stone Point Park
• Progress report on Apple Blossom Park
• Progress report on Farmers Park

The Parks & Environment Advisory Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the February 4, 2025 minutes. The meeting was then adjourned at 6:08 p.m. after a motion and second.

• Approved agenda (vote: Yes – All)
• Approved February 4, 2025 minutes (vote: Yes – All)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Dwayne Voegeli, seconded by Amanda Gentry)

Economic Development Authority Board

The Winona County Economic Development Authority meeting scheduled for March 27, 2025, has been cancelled. The next meeting is on April 24, 2025.

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold a committee discussion on a potential hiring freeze and cost-cutting measures, and also consider separating the Health and Human Services Advisory Committee. Consent business includes approving a 2025-2027 labor agreement with the WCHSEA union, resolutions for right-of-way on CSAH 12 and a LRIP grant for CSAH 29, and several other contracts and licenses. General business features a discussion on a draft cannabis business registration ordinance and a presentation on the county's 2024 preliminary year-end financial report.

• Discuss potential hiring freeze and cost cutting (Committee of the Board)
• Discussion on potential separation of Health and Human Services Advisory Committee
• Approve WCHSEA Labor Agreement 2025-2027
• Approve resolution to acquire right-of-way for CSAH 12 and agreement with MnDOT for CSAH 29 LRIP grant
• Review draft Cannabis Business Registration Ordinance and authorize publication of notice of intent to enact

The Winona County Board approved the acquisition of land for County State‑Aid Highway 12 and accepted a $1,450,000 grant for a Local Road Improvement Program on CSAH 29. It also increased the sheriff’s change fund, approved a Safe Roads Zone grant, and adopted a resolution proclaiming National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. Additional actions included approving a labor agreement, a letter of support for a warming‑center grant, and several administrative items.

• Approved acquisition of right‑of‑way for CSAH 12 (no vote recorded)
• Approved acceptance of $1,450,000 CSAH 29 LRIP grant (no vote recorded)
• Approved increase of the sheriff’s change fund to $1,000 (no vote recorded)
• Approved State of Minnesota Safe Roads Zone Grant to combat speeding (Vote: Yes – 5)
• Approved WCHSEA Labor Agreement 2025‑2027 (Vote: Yes – 3; No – 2)
• Approved letter of support for Catholic Charities warming‑center grant (Vote: Yes – 5)
• Approved Resolution proclaiming National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (Vote: Yes – 5)
• Approved amendment of minutes correcting Dog Breeding Kennel Ordinance wording (Vote: Yes – 5)

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for March 20, 2025, has been cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services due to a lack of applications. The next scheduled meeting is April 17, 2025, at 1:00 pm.

• Meeting cancelled due to no applications received

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three conditional/interim use permit petitions. Items include a feedlot expansion with liquid manure storage for Clear Crest Farms, a short-term animal boarding facility for Greg and Brandy Gommels, and a land-disturbance activity on steep slopes for an access road for Beth Turner & Aaron Jefson. The commission will then make recommendations to the County Board.

• Clear Crest Farms seeks to modify existing CUP 1232 to expand feedlot beyond 300 animal units and relocate liquid manure storage area (includes karst report and wetland determination)
• Greg and Brandy Gommels request a conditional/interim use permit for a short-term animal boarding facility (40 dogs, 15 cats) on a 3-acre parcel at 19793 County Road 25 in Hillsdale Township
• Beth Turner & Aaron Jefson seek a permit for land disturbance on steep slopes to build an access road to a proposed building site
• Staff recommends approval for the Gommels boarding facility with conditions such as annual inspection and septic permit
• Hillsdale Township supports the Gommels proposal

The commission approved the amended agenda and the February 20 minutes unanimously. It opened and then closed the public hearing on the Gommels short‑term animal boarding facility, hearing comments from the petitioner and a neighbor. The commission adopted the Findings of Fact and unanimously recommended that the interim use permit be approved by the County Board with the stated conditions. The recommendation will be placed on the April 8 Board agenda.

• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Approved February 20 minutes (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing on animal boarding permit (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on animal boarding permit (unanimous)
• Adopted Findings of Fact and recommended approval of interim use permit (unanimous)

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

This is the initial meeting of the Winona County Health & Human Services Advisory Committee. Members will review the committee's mission and roles, introduce themselves, elect a chair and vice chair, and discuss ideas and recommendations. The committee will also establish quarterly meeting dates for 2025. The agenda is primarily procedural and organizational.

• Election of committee chair and vice chair
• Setting of quarterly meeting dates for 2025: March 18, June 17, September 16, December 16 (June 17 noted as a possible conflict)
• Introduction of HHS team supervisors across divisions (Children & Family Services, Income Maintenance, Child Support, Over 65 and Public Health)
• Review of committee mission and member roles/responsibilities

Extension Committee

The Winona County Extension Committee will hold a routine meeting to elect a chair and vice chair, approve minutes, and receive updates on 4-H Youth Development, Master Gardeners, and regional programs. The committee will also discuss Farm Family of the Year nominations. The meeting is procedural with no major decisions or financial items on the agenda.

• Election of chair and vice chair for 2025
• Program updates from 4-H Youth Development and Master Gardeners
• Farm Family of the Year nominations to be discussed
• Future meeting scheduled for Thursday, July 10, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. at Winona County Fairgrounds

The Winona County Extension Committee elected Melinda Groth as Chair and Casey Moger as Vice Chair, and approved amended minutes from the previous meeting with a date correction. Members reviewed 4-H and Master Gardener program updates, the 2024 budget, and discussed the Farm Family of the Year nomination process. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational and procedural.

• Elected Melinda Groth as Chair
• Elected Casey Moger as Vice Chair
• Approved amended minutes from previous meeting with date correction

Stockton Rollingstone Minnesota City Watershed District

The Stockton-Rollingstone-Minnesota City Watershed District will hold a regular meeting covering routine approvals, financial reports, and an advisory committee update on stream findings. Discussion items include the 2024 audit, a watershed scholarship, bylaw review, a pond clean-out, and stream cleanup efforts.

• Treasurer's report and 2024 audit review
• Watershed District scholarship discussion
• Bylaws review
• Advisory committee stream findings presentation by Will Varela
• Donna F. pond clean-out and stream cleanup

The Stockton-Rollingstone-MN City Watershed District met on March 12, 2025, and approved the agenda and minutes as read. No treasurer's report was given. The board tabled the stream cleanup discussion until an area and date can be decided, and is looking into alternative auditors after the 2024 audit estimate was deemed too costly. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved agenda as read
• Approved minutes as read
• Tabled stream cleanup discussion until area and date decided
• Noted 2024 audit estimate too costly; Sheila looking into other auditors

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will consider consent items including a Local Option Sales and Use Tax Agreement with the Minnesota Department of Revenue, awarding bids for road resurfacing on CSAH 29, County Road 109, and CSAH 16 and 20, and approving various grants and appointments. Under general business, the board will discuss the Planning Commission's recommendation to deny modifications to the dog breeding kennel ordinance and provide direction on courthouse roof replacement. The meeting also includes a committee discussion on potentially separating the Health and Human Services Advisory Committee.

• Approve Local Option Sales and Use Tax Agreement with Minnesota Department of Revenue
• Award bid for CSAH 29 and Co Rd 109 resurfacing to Dunn Blacktop Company
• Award bid for CSAH 16 and 20 resurfacing to Dunn Blacktop Company
• Discuss Planning Commission recommendation to deny dog breeding kennel ordinance modifications
• Discuss potential separation of Health and Human Services Advisory Committee

The Winona County Board voted 3-2 to reject the Planning Commission's recommendation to deny dog kennel ordinance modifications, instead approving an ordinance amendment prohibiting new dog kennels in all zoning districts. The amendment redefines kennel types, allows animal welfare kennels and dog boarding kennels as conditional uses, and prohibits dog kennels (commercial breeding facilities) countywide. The board also approved several consent items, including road resurfacing bids, a local option sales tax agreement, and appointments of a county assessor and community health services administrator.

• Approved ordinance amendment prohibiting new dog kennels in all zoning districts (3-2)
• Rejected Planning Commission recommendation to deny dog kennel ordinance modifications (3-2)
• Approved $1,834,060.58 in disbursements for 02/14/25-02/25/25
• Awarded CSAH 29 and Co Rd 109 resurfacing bid to Dunn Blacktop Company
• Awarded CSAH 16 and 20 resurfacing bid to Dunn Blacktop Company
• Appointed Kathy Frette as County Assessor at $115,107.20/year through Dec 31, 2028
• Appointed Emilie Volkman as Community Health Services Administrator
• Appointed David Pierret to the Economic Development Authority

Economic Development Authority Board

The Winona County Economic Development Authority will discuss and vote on revisions to its Business Revolving Loan Program Guidelines. The board will also hear a presentation from Winona Transit and review financial reports and loan status updates for January 2025.

• Discuss and approve revisions to the Business Revolving Loan Program Guidelines
• Guest speaker from Winona Transit (Amy Vanguilder, City of Winona Deputy Clerk)
• Financial report for January 2025 showing $1,114,160.06 in EDA Revolving Loan fund balance
• Loan status updates: Mutthouse Properties loan closed at $136,074; Current Designs Kayak active with $203,691.56 principal balance; Z&A Country Market approved, pending construction
• Approval of minutes from January 23, 2025

The Winona County Economic Development Authority held a regular meeting and approved the agenda, the minutes from January 23, 2025, and the January 2025 financial reports, all by unanimous vote. No substantive policy decisions or project approvals were made; the meeting was largely procedural.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes for January 23, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved January 2025 financial reports (unanimous)

Winona County Board

The Board will discuss labor negotiation strategies in a closed session and review a contract for a comprehensive plan update. The meeting also includes several contract approvals for health, human services, and road maintenance.

• Contract for SRF Consulting Group, Inc. for Comprehensive Plan Update
• Renewal of mosquito abatement services with Driftless Region Vector Control LLC
• Final payment for CSAH 34 and Co Rd 127 resurfacing
• Addition of CSAH 29 Mill and Overlay, CSAH 6 to CSAH 2 to 2025 CIP
• Approval of 2025 Solid Waste Hauler and Facility License Applications

The Winona County Board voted 2-3 against reauthorizing the 2014 Comprehensive Plan, then approved a contract with SRF Consulting Group for a comprehensive plan update (3-2). The board also awarded the 2025 official newspaper designation to the Winona Post (3-2) and approved routine consent items, including payments and contracts.

• Rejected reauthorization of 2014 Comprehensive Plan (2-3)
• Approved SRF Consulting Group contract for Comprehensive Plan Update (3-2)
• Awarded 2025 Official Newspaper to Winona Post (3-2)
• Approved consent agenda including treatment court funding, mosquito abatement contract, and solid waste licenses (5-0)
• Approved guardianship conservator services agreement with Independent Management Services (5-0)
• Appointed Rebecca Franzen to Personnel Board of Appeals (5-0)
• Approved minutes from February 11, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved disbursements totaling $1,470,932.20 (5-0)

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board will elect officers, approve minutes and consent items, and receive updates on the Whitewater Drinking Water Protection Grant including final eLink report and reconciliation. Other discussion items include a 2024 audit proposal letter from Peterson Company LTD, a Local Advisory Team grant update, and a Spongy Moth proposal from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. The meeting also includes board and agency reports.

• Election of officers for the coming year
• Approval of 2024 audit proposal letter from Peterson Company LTD
• Final eLink report and reconciliation of Whitewater Drinking Water Protection Grant
• Spongy Moth proposal from Minnesota Department of Agriculture
• Consent items including bills payable totaling $5,005.78 and anticipated deposit of $16,921.75

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB) held its February 20, 2025 meeting, electing Josh Elsing as Chair, Lynn Zabel as Vice Chair, Bob Walkes as Secretary, and James Rentz as Alternate Secretary, all by unanimous votes. The board approved the December 2024 minutes, the agenda, and consent items (including bills payable and the MCIT premium). No substantive policy decisions were made; the board discussed financial updates, grant statuses, and a spongy moth proposal, and voted to change its meeting schedule to quarterly on the fourth Tuesday of every third month (4-1).

• Elected Josh Elsing as 2025 Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Lynn Zabel as 2025 Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Bob Walkes as 2025 Secretary (unanimous)
• Elected James Rentz as Alternate Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of December 20, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent items including bills payable and MCIT premium (unanimous)
• Adopted amended motion to meet quarterly on fourth Tuesday of every third month (4-1)

Board of Adjustment

This agenda is a cancellation notice. The February 20, 2025 Board of Adjustment meeting has been cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services. The next scheduled meeting is March 20, 2025 at 1:00 pm.

• Meeting cancelled with no items discussed.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and discuss a proposed zoning ordinance to prohibit dog breeding kennels. The commission will then provide a recommendation on the ordinance to the County Board.

• Public hearing: Zoning Ordinance to Prohibit Dog Breeding Kennels

The Winona County Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend denial of a proposed zoning ordinance that would prohibit dog breeding kennels. Instead, the commission recommended that future conditional and interim use permits for dog breeding kennels include a requirement to obtain a canine-friendly certification ensuring dog health and welfare. The recommendation will be forwarded to the County Board for final action.

• Approved agenda and January 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Opened and closed public hearing on dog kennel ban (unanimous)
• Recommended denial of dog breeding kennel ban (unanimous)
• Recommended future kennel permits require canine-friendly certification (unanimous)

Road & Bridge Committee

The committee will discuss updates to the Snow & Ice Control Policy, including service hours and stranded motorist practices. Members will also review project funding updates and long-range transportation planning.

• Proposed updates to Snow & Ice Control Policy language and service hours
• 2025 CSAH apportionment amounts (up 8.4% from 2024)
• Report that State Bridge Bond funding is currently depleted
• Discussion on Road and Bridge Committee operating policy and public membership
• Review of maintenance and construction project updates

The Road and Bridge Committee met and approved the October 2024 minutes. They discussed the Snow & Ice Control Policy with no major changes, reviewed project funding (noting a rise in CSAH apportionments and depleted state bridge bond funds), and talked about long-range planning, including the possibility of returning some paved roads to gravel. No formal decisions were made on these topics.

• Approved October 15, 2024 minutes as presented
• Discussed Snow & Ice Control Policy with no major changes
• Discussed project funding, including CSAH apportionment increase and depleted state bridge bond funds
• Discussed long-range transportation planning, including potential gravel road conversions

Stockton Rollingstone Minnesota City Watershed District

The Stockton-Rollingstone-Minnesota City Watershed District is holding a routine meeting to approve minutes, receive the treasurer's report, and review the 2024 audit. They will also discuss financial reporting forms for 2023 and 2024, review a watershed district scholarship form, discuss committee pay and tracking, and address bylaws and the advisory committee. No major policy decisions or expenditures are on the agenda.

• Review of 2024 audit
• Financial reporting form for 2023 & 2024
• Review watershed district scholarship form
• Discuss committee pay and tracking
• Bylaws and advisory committee updates

The Stockton-Rollingstone-Minnesota City Watershed District met on February 12, 2025, and approved the agenda and minutes as read. The 2023 audit is complete, and Peterson Comp. will audit 2024 financial statements. Plans were made to finalize a watershed scholarship application and arrange a speaker for the April 9 meeting. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved agenda as read
• Approved minutes as reported
• 2023 audit completed; Peterson Comp. to audit 2024 financial statements
• Plan to send 2023 and 2024 financial reports to SAFE
• Finalize Watershed Scholarship application (Chair Spencer)

Winona County Board

This is a regular meeting of the Winona County Board. The board will decide on consent items including two interim use permits, a contract with the Winona Daily News for the official newspaper, and a purchase of Motorola radios. General business includes a presentation on the Spongy Moth proposal from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and an update from the Recorder's Department. The board will also discuss appointing a Citizen Advisory Committee member.

• Approve Interim Use Permit for Construction Ventures Inc., dba Biesanz Stone
• Approve Interim Use Permit for Nels Ebbesen
• Award Bid and Approve Contract with Winona Daily News for 2025 Official Newspaper
• Approve Notice of Intent to Apply for Statewide Health Improvement Partnership
• Approve Purchase of Motorola Solutions for APX-6000 Portable Radios

The Winona County Board approved the consent agenda, including interim use permits for Biesanz Stone and Nels Ebbesen, a donation resolution, and disbursements totaling $1,880,326.06. The board tabled the 2025 official newspaper contract with the Winona Daily News pending county attorney review. Jordan Potter was appointed as Board of Adjustment Liaison, and Kraig Geise was appointed to the Parks and Environment Advisory Committee.

• Approved consent agenda including interim use permits, donation resolution, and disbursements (4-0)
• Tabled 2025 official newspaper contract with Winona Daily News (4-0)
• Appointed Jordan Potter as Board of Adjustment Liaison to Planning Commission (4-0)
• Appointed Kraig Geise to Parks and Environment Advisory Committee (4-0)
• Approved minutes from January 28, 2025 (4-0)
• Acknowledged Board of Adjustment and Planning Commission minutes from December 19, 2024 (4-0)
• Approved amended agenda moving consent item 7.3 to general business (4-0)

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

The Winona-La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan Policy Committee will meet to approve a revised local funding policy that creates a forestry projects fund and changes cover crop payments. The committee will also elect officers, select a fiscal agent (Root River SWCD) and a day-to-day contact (Winona County), and review the 2025 work plan and financial report. Informational updates include grant work plan edits, a landowner outreach letter for Pine Creek stream restoration, and a report on 2024 projects and accomplishments.

• Election of officers (Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary)
• Selection of fiscal agent (Root River SWCD) and day-to-day contact (Winona County)
• Local Funding Policy Revision: new forestry projects fund and change in cover crop payments
• Review and approve 2025 work plan and financial report
• Landowner outreach letter for Pine Creek stream restoration

The WinLaC Policy Committee unanimously approved amendments to the Local Funding Policy, including changes to the cover crop payment rate and the addition of a forestry practice. Officers for 2025 were elected, Root River SWCD was retained as fiscal agent, and Winona County as day-to-day contact. The committee also acknowledged a financial report showing $113,988.52 remaining in grant funds and approved $35,000 for La Crescent's Pine Creek Restoration engineering.

• Elected Cheryl Winters as Chair, Lynn Zabel as Vice Chair, Jerome Christenson as Secretary (all unanimous)
• Retained Root River SWCD as Fiscal Agent (unanimous)
• Retained Winona County as Day-to-Day Contact (unanimous)
• Approved amended Local Funding Policy (unanimous)
• Acknowledged financial statement and invoices paid (unanimous)
• Approved use of WinLaC logo for La Crescent outreach to upstream landowners
• Approved $35,000 for Pine Creek Restoration engineering/design (noted in minutes)

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The committee will elect a Chair and Vice Chair and receive an introduction to the committee's functions. Members will also review progress reports for Stone Point, Apple Blossom, and Farmers parks.

• Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair
• Progress reports for Stone Point Park, Apple Blossom Park, and Farmers Park
• Overview and introduction to the committee by Ross Dunsmoor

The Winona County Parks & Environment Advisory Committee elected Beth Stanford as Chair and Anne Morse as Vice Chair, both unanimously. The committee also voted unanimously to have the County investigate GreenCorps members to assist with parks and planning work. Progress reports were given on Stone Point Park, Apple Blossom Park, and Farmers Park, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Elected Beth Stanford as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Anne Morse as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved October 1, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to investigate GreenCorps members (unanimous)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will first meet in closed session at 4:45 PM to discuss offers for real or personal property at 457 Gould Street. At 5:15 PM, the Committee of the Board will discuss a potential separation of the Health and Human Services Advisory Committee. The regular meeting at 6:00 PM includes consent items and general business, such as appointing a county assessor, discussing a pre-design phase of a joint public safety facility study, and selecting a courthouse roofing replacement material.

• Closed session to develop or consider offers for purchase or sale of property at 457 Gould Street
• Committee discussion on potential separation of Health and Human Services Advisory Committee
• Approve appointment of County Assessor
• Discuss/approve/deny pre-design phase of Joint Public Safety Facility planning study with Klein McCarthy Architects
• Select preferred courthouse roofing replacement material

The Winona County Board approved Option 1 of the pre-design phase for the Joint Public Safety Facility with Klein McCarthy Architects, but with conditions: no money will be spent until the City of Winona confirms co-location, the project will be re-evaluated in July, and documentation must show the county is not obligated to pay or repay pre-design costs. The vote was 4-1, with Commissioner Ward opposed. The board also approved a resolution to correct a TIF district error for the City of St. Charles, authorizing a payment of $35,697.66, and appointed Kathryn Frette as County Assessor.

• Approved Joint Public Safety Facility pre-design Option 1 with conditions (4-1)
• Approved resolution to correct TIF district error, paying $35,697.66 to St. Charles (5-0)
• Appointed Kathryn Frette as County Assessor at $115,108.76 annually (5-0)
• Approved prioritized bridge replacement list resolution (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including appointments, licenses, and grants (5-0)
• Tabled courthouse roofing material selection until Feb 11, 2025
• Approved minutes from Jan 7, 2025 (5-0)
• Acknowledged Whitewater Joint Powers Board minutes (5-0)

Emergency Coordinating Committee

The committee will meet to receive agency updates and discuss the 2025 training schedule. The agenda includes updates on avian flu and the Hazard Mitigation Plan.

• Storm Spotter Training on March 31st, 2025
• I Love You Guys training in June 2025
• ARMER Radio Training
• Avian Flu update
• Public Safety Day at the Winona County Fair

Regional Railroad Authority

The Winona County Regional Railroad Authority will hold its annual meeting to elect 2025 officers (Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary/Treasurer), approve the 2024 annual meeting minutes, and appoint a member and an alternate to the Joint Powers Board of the Great River Rail Commission for one-year terms. The authority's share of the Great River Rail Commission's 2024 budget was $2,580.

• Election of 2025 Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary/Treasurer (one-year terms)
• Appointment of one member and one alternate to the Great River Rail Commission Joint Powers Board (terms begin Jan 15, 2025)
• Approval of minutes from January 9, 2024 annual meeting
• WCRRA's $2,580 share of the Great River Rail Commission 2024 budget (included in county budget line 01-060-000-0000-6245)

Economic Development Authority Board

The Economic Development Authority is meeting to elect a President and Vice President and review financial and loan reports. The board will also hear from a guest speaker from the Winona Area Chamber of Commerce.

• Election of President and Vice President
• Review of December 2024 financial reports
• Updates on current loan status
• Proposed rescheduling of November 27 and December 25, 2025 meetings
• Guest presentation by Christie Ransom of the Winona Area Chamber of Commerce

The Winona County Economic Development Authority Board approved its officers, agenda, and prior minutes, and accepted financial reports showing no delinquent loans. It also rescheduled its November and December 2025 meetings to avoid holidays. No major funding or policy decisions were made; the meeting included a guest presentation from the Chamber of Commerce.

• Approved Jim Vrchota as President and Mike Kennedy as Vice President (all yes)
• Approved the agenda (all yes)
• Approved December 18, 2024 minutes (all yes)
• Approved December 2024 financial reports (all yes)
• Changed November 2025 meeting to Nov 18 and December 2025 meeting to Dec 16 (all yes)

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on two variance petitions: one to reduce the minimum rear-yard setback from 50 to 20 feet for an accessory dwelling unit in Wiscoy Township, and another to modify parcels within a platted area. The board will also elect officers, adopt annual rules of procedure, and discuss a meeting date change. One previously noticed petition has been withdrawn.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair for 2025
• Annual review and adoption of Rules of Procedure
• Withdrawn petition BOA-24-18 (Lowell Jabs) for replacing an agricultural structure
• Variance request BOA 01-16-25-01: reduce rear-yard setback to 20 feet for accessory dwelling unit at Nels Ebbesen property in Wiscoy Township
• Variance request BOA 01-16-25-02: modify subdivision regulations for parcels in a platted area (Landon Jorgenson)

The Winona County Board of Adjustment approved two variance petitions. The first allows a reduced rear yard setback for an accessory dwelling, and the second permits reconfiguration of parcel lines. The board also elected officers, adopted rules of procedure, and recommended a Planning Commission liaison.

• Approved variance for 20-foot rear yard setback for accessory dwelling (unanimous)
• Approved variance to revise lot lines between three parcels (unanimous)
• Elected Jordan Potter as Chair and Kelsey Fitzgerald as Vice Chair (4-1)
• Approved amended Rules of Procedure (unanimous)
• Recommended Jordan Potter as Planning Commission liaison (unanimous)
• Changed June 2025 meeting to June 18 due to Juneteenth (unanimous)
• Withdrawn petition BOA-24-18 noted, no action taken

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will meet to elect officers and adopt annual rules of procedure. They will also consider a tabled petition from Biesanz Stone for a conditional use permit to allow land disturbance on steep slopes for an access road. The main new business is an interim use permit request from Nels Robert Ebbesen to allow an accessory dwelling unit for provision of healthcare by a family member.

• Election of Planning Commission officers (Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary)
• Annual review and adoption of Rules of Procedure
• Consideration of tabled petition PC12-19-24-02: Biesanz Stone seeks conditional/interim use permit for land disturbance over 1,000 cubic yards on steep slopes for access road
• New petition PC01-16-25-01: Nels Robert Ebbesen seeks interim use permit for accessory dwelling unit for family healthcare
• Discussion to change June 2025 meeting to Wednesday, June 18

The Winona County Planning Commission recommended approval of an interim use permit for Biesanz Stone to build an access road on steep slopes, with conditions. They also recommended approval of an interim use permit for a secondary dwelling for healthcare assistance. Officers were elected, and the June 2025 meeting was rescheduled.

• Recommended approval of Biesanz Stone interim use permit for access road (all yes)
• Recommended approval of Ebbesen interim use permit for accessory dwelling (all yes)
• Elected Mike Flynn as Chair (all yes)
• Elected Eugene Hansen as Vice Chair (6-2)
• Elected Jon Nicholson as Secretary (all yes)
• Approved agenda (all yes)
• Approved minutes of Dec 19, 2024 (all yes)
• Changed June 2025 meeting to June 18 (all yes)

Stockton Rollingstone Minnesota City Watershed District

The Stockton-Rollingstone-Minnesota City Watershed District will meet to approve routine items including the agenda, minutes, and treasurer's report. They will also review the 2023 audit and the 2024 annual report. A possible discussion on a watershed district scholarship is listed as a separate item.

• 2023 audit review
• 2024 annual report
• Potential watershed district scholarship discussion

The Stockton Rollingstone Minnesota City Watershed District met on January 8, 2025, and approved the treasurer's report for the end of 2024, with no checks written in December. The board welcomed Diane Dingfelder as the new treasurer and discussed several future actions, including researching new bylaws, forming an advisory committee, and preparing for the 2024 audit. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved agenda as read
• Approved treasurer's report for end of 2024 (no checks written in December)
• Welcomed Diane Dingfelder as new treasurer

Winona County Board

The Board of Commissioners will discuss and potentially adopt a cannabis zoning ordinance. The meeting also includes the election of a Chair and Vice Chair and the swearing-in of Commissioners Josh Elsing and Greg Olson.

• Review and potential adoption of Cannabis Zoning Ordinance
• Conditional Use Permit for Jeremy and Rebecca Church
• Purchase of Service Agreement with Olmsted County for Tuberculosis Clinic
• Renewal of agreements with ABC Works in La Crescent and Caledonia
• 2025 State of MN Federal Boating Safety Equipment Grant

The Winona County Board adopted a cannabis zoning ordinance and approved multiple appointments to advisory boards, including the Board of Adjustments, Planning Commission, and Health and Human Services Advisory. Several appointments were contested, with some failing on split votes. The board also approved consent agenda items, including a conditional use permit and a $15.3 million disbursement.

• Adopted Cannabis Zoning Ordinance (5-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Jeremy and Rebecca Church (consent)
• Approved $15,276,666.69 in disbursements (5-0)
• Reappointed Kelsey Fitzgerald and Jordan Potter to Board of Adjustments (5-0)
• Appointed Amy Cordry to Board of Adjustments (3-2)
• Appointed Donald Evanson to Economic Development Authority (5-0)
• Appointed Mark Jacobson, Rebecca Kanz, Craig Putz, Morgan Gould, Amanda Rodriguez, Teresa Wilkerson to Health and Human Services Advisory (5-0)
• Appointed Diane Dingfelder to Stockton-Rollingstone-Minnesota City Watershed District (5-0)