Jason E. Johnston

Key discussions during the meeting centered on the proposed jail project, including facility layout, security features, and financing concerns, with Construction Engineers proposing a phased bidding approach. The County accepted DOT flex fund awards for bridge replacements, approving an owner-engineer agreement amendment and a market analysis for right-of-way acquisition related to a FEMA project. Other topics included reporting on building maintenance issues, reviewing alternatives for CDL training after the County was removed as a federal center, discussing bridge-related matters with the City of Minto, providing an update on the county Facebook page engagement, reviewing Human Service Zone operations, and approving the reappointment of a board member. A motion was passed to approve a temporary training differential for dispatchers, with one commissioner dissenting.

The Board meeting included the approval of the agenda and a correction to the previous meeting's minutes regarding 'Hove Dam' to 'Hove Slough'. Key discussions centered on the Treasurer's Report, which included placing $137,000 into a certificate of deposit and updating bank signature cards to add the current Treasurer. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to an Interagency Presentation on the Matejcek Dam Rehabilitation, where alternatives such as 'No Action,' 'Future Without Federal Investment,' 'Federal Decommissioning with Flood Protection Downstream,' and three structural rehabilitation alternatives were presented along with associated costs and impacts. Discussion followed regarding the risks of dam failure, the geologic base material, environmental considerations including threatened species, and potential funding sources for rehabilitation. Additionally, the Board discussed shelter maintenance at Whitman Dam and requested the WCWRD consider paying 50% of the estimated project cost.

Key discussions included the approval of the agenda, with a noted correction to the previous month's minutes regarding an asset disposal motion. The Commission approved the Sheriff's recommendation to purchase two Ford Explorers, referencing the department's vehicle replacement cycle. Following a review of a recent ice event, the county's decision to deploy salt trucks for public safety was supported, and plans to improve communication with the Department of Transportation were established. Approval was granted for a lease agreement with Grafton Airport for gravel and sand stockpiles. Updates were provided on the Minto Bridge project and the hiring process for a replacement staff member. The Commission decided to maintain the 2026 agricultural land values at the previous year's rate. Staffing continuity was addressed by approving an Auditor/Treasurer employee to remain full-time temporarily following a resignation. The Public Information Officer proposed creating a centralized county Facebook page, which was directed to proceed. Finally, Daryl Campbell was reappointed to the Water Board for a three-year term.

The meeting included discussion regarding the Matejcek Dam closing in anticipation of the ice fishing season. Key actions included the approval of a CMAR recommendation to hire Construction Engineers for the jail project, following a 4-1 vote, and the approval of a tax abatement application. The commission also approved the disposal of remaining 2022 audit assets, including impounded vehicles, and authorized a contract with The Village for Employee Assistance Program services starting January 1, 2026. Further discussions covered the potential hiring of a county administrator, updates on dispatch staffing and training differentials, approval of Walsh County JDA board appointments, and approval of the Hagen Bridge project resolution. Finally, the board approved the reorganization of board portfolios to balance workloads, and discussed expanding the Colors employee program countywide.

The meeting included the election of the Chair and Vice Chair, followed by a report from the North Dakota State Fair Annual Meeting. The board discussed and approved a jail lighting upgrade project, a miscellaneous services agreement with KLJ for engineering support, and the purchase of heat lance equipment for road repairs. An update on the Minto elevator bridge was provided, and the board discussed the Emergency Manager/Dispatch Manager position. The renewal of JR's Bar alcohol license was approved. Finally, commissioner portfolios for the coming year were discussed.