Chad Gillespie

The meeting commenced with the Commissioner Chair calling the session to order. Key discussion involved a review of an assessment by Dianne Reinart, which the state found to be in compliance with no changes to 2014 real and personal property values. The review included an explanation of changes in the sales ratio calculation, noting a shift in time adjustment to approximately 10%, and noted that the average increase in agricultural values was 32%. The meeting adjourned shortly thereafter.

Key discussions included departmental updates from the County Recorder regarding a new bill enhancing data privacy for judicial records, which led to the approval of charging a maximum fee for record classification. The Recorder also discussed the Government Corners project timeline and received approval to use the Compliance Fund for office trainings. The County Auditor/Treasurer presented the yearly audit letter, confirmed the delinquent tax publication schedule, and reported the Aa3 bond rating. The Soil and Water Conservation District provided updates on the wetland road replacement project application and planning for soil health informational meetings. The Board approved numerous bills for payment, appointed Lynn Siegel to the Western Prairie Human Services Safety Committee, approved advertising for Bois de Sioux Watershed District Board and Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment positions, and designated Commissioners Schmidt and Nelson as County representatives for the Western Prairie Human Services Board. A motion was unanimously approved for the Western Prairie DHS Grant Letter of Support. The Board discussed the shotgun/rifle hunting designation, agreeing that no immediate action would default the designation to shotgun/rifle, and scheduled further discussion for the February meeting regarding potential rifle hunting on private land.

Key discussions included a department update from the Auditor/Treasurer, appointments to the Planning Commission Board and the Bois de Sioux Watershed Board, and a discussion regarding an ordinance pertaining to shotgun-only versus shotgun/rifle use. The County Coordinator addressed the approval of bills and the approval of a Summary Ordinance for Tetrahydrocannabinol Retail Businesses, along with updates on the Browns Valley Food Shelf. The agenda also allocated time for a public comment period and commissioners' committee reports.

Key discussions included updates from the Highway Department regarding grants and budget review, and a quarterly update from Traverse Care Center/Prairieview Place detailing staffing, occupancy, and ongoing interior improvements, including an HVAC replacement quote. The 2025 County Fair presented a positive net income, with upcoming maintenance projects planned. The Soil and Water Conservation District reported on completed grant projects, wetland plan extensions, watershed management updates, and conservation funding availability, culminating in the approval of an authorized signatory for contracts. The Board discussed the proposed Retail Cannabis Ordinance, scheduling a public meeting for January 20, 2026. Financial actions included the approval to transfer funds between the Traverse Care Center and Prairieview Place funds and the certification of the 2026 levy. Policies for Paid Family Medical Leave and Break Room Purchases were approved, as was a feasibility study with Wold Architects and Engineers for the Pineview Apartments. Approvals also covered end-of-year payroll for Social Services, wage increases for non-union staff and certain elected officials, and the 2026 Minnesota Housing Joint Powers Agreement. Finally, various bills and a donation were approved.

The 2021 Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan for Traverse County, Minnesota, serves as a roadmap to reduce long-term risks to human life and property from natural hazards. The plan evaluates and prioritizes hazards such as flooding, windstorms, hailstorms, tornadoes, and winter storms. It outlines strategies including local planning, infrastructure projects, natural systems protection, public education, and preparedness measures to mitigate potential damages and losses.