Joe Austin

The meeting included introductions of attendees and guest speakers from Brightwater and Lutheran Social Services (LSS). Guest speakers presented key information regarding services for the homeless population, including challenges in finding treatment placements, capacity utilization at warming centers and shelters, and coordination efforts with core community services. Specific topics included the opening of a new housing unit in west Duluth, difficulties in securing mental health hospitalizations, and a pet care program for the homeless. LSS discussed their new opportunities program, family resource centers which offer support groups and resources for families, Project Care for uninsured clients, and an upcoming mobile unit for rural outreach. The group also discussed the negative impact of proposed SNAP benefit cuts and the challenge of making sports and healthy activities accessible to at-risk youth. The next meeting agenda will focus on appointing a new LAC leader.

This document outlines the 2026 Legislative Priority for Systems Modernization, addressing the antiquated public assistance and social service systems in Minnesota. The plan focuses on immediate requirements due to federal changes, proposes bridging strategies through county innovation and direct data access, and advocates for long-term modernization towards integrated, efficient systems. Key aims include improving accuracy, efficiency, client interaction, and achieving significant cost savings by addressing the unsustainability of current systems.

The Committee of the Whole agenda included numerous consent items covering various committee recommendations. The Public Works & Transportation Committee sought approval for executing grant and cooperative agreements for multiple projects, including an ATV Trail Project, a lighting system at MNTH 169 and CSAH 117, bridge replacement funding for County Bridge 69, and applications for PROTECT Program Grants for landslide stabilization and bridge replacement. The Finance & Budget Committee agenda included a premise permit application for lawful gambling and approval of the Abatement List. The Central Management & Intergovernmental Committee addressed ratification of multiple collective bargaining agreements for various county units (Civil Service Basic, Merit Basic, County Attorney Investigator, Assistant County Attorney, and Confidential Units) and authorization for a Joint Powers Agreement for the Northern Counties Coalition. A public hearing was established for a proposed Zoning Map Amendment on March 10, 2026. The regular agenda included the awarding of bids for several road and repair projects, authorization to contract for Tax Court Appraisal Services, and a recommendation to purchase high-resolution aerial photography. The Committee also received a presentation on the Topaz Project regarding Helium-3 Production and discussed topics related to ICE presence and legislative goals.

The meeting addressed numerous consent agenda items spanning several committees. The Health & Human Services Committee sought approval to accept funding for expanding Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor services. The Public Works & Transportation Committee sought approval for a Memorandum of Understanding with the Superior National Forest Service regarding the transfer of jurisdiction for the Camp 26 Truck Trail and a cooperative maintenance agreement for 2026 road maintenance with the City of Duluth. The Finance & Budget Committee addressed financial contributions to the City of Duluth for a Facilities Conditions Assessment, accepting a solar array grant award, reviewing 2025 third quarter budget changes, and approving retail tobacco sales and liquor consumption permits. Central Management & Intergovernmental Committee items included approving the 2026 Pay Equity Compliance Report and an agreement for township operations funding with the Town of Goodwill. The Environment & Natural Resources Committee considered a land use permit for a sled dog race, a temporary yard lease, and appraisal reports for timber to be auctioned. Finally, official proceedings for the January 13, 2026 meeting were approved.

This document outlines St. Louis County's Legislative Platform and Priorities for the 2026 session, aimed at promoting health and safety, ensuring sound infrastructure, embracing natural resources, and supporting community prosperity. Key focus areas include securing bonding and funding for major projects like solid waste management, infrastructure, and environmental preservation, as well as legislative advocacy for human services technology, federal cost shifts, child welfare, healthcare for incarcerated individuals, housing, childcare, and sustainable resource management.