Rachel Foster

The board discussed departmental updates, including the Sheriff's office event planning and future staffing needs. The County Engineer provided reports on highway striping, infrastructure projects on Underwood and Glass Avenues, equipment procurement, and an agreement update with Cerro Gordo County. Actions taken included the approval of a vehicle purchase for Environmental Health, authorization of Violent Intruder Training for county employees, issuance of a liquor license, and the approval of the FY 21/22 Library Contract with an appropriation of $151,208.00. Various board members provided status reports on regional committees and economic development.

The Board discussed requests from a contractor regarding zoning changes and addressed damage caused to road infrastructure. Staffing updates included the appointment of a new Road Foreman and discussions on hiring full-time personnel. The Board reviewed paving projects and unemployment data. During the joint session with the Chickasaw/Mitchell TCM Board, hiring decisions were made for a case manager and a secretary, alongside the processing of a resignation and a change of status for existing staff. The Board approved resolutions for the issuance and sale of General Obligation Bonds, scheduled a public hearing, and authorized claims and the quarterly report of fees. Additional items included reports on economic development, county facility remodeling, committee updates, the reappointment of a member to the Planning and Zoning Board of Adjustment, and a grant received by the Historic Preservation Commission.

The meeting addressed the approval of a proposal to issue Taxable General Obligation County Purpose Bonds for a pretreatment plant project. Presentations were provided regarding construction management services for a potential courthouse project. The County Engineer provided updates on road department activities, including bridge work and intersection paving, and the board approved a resolution establishing a speed limit on a specific county road. Additionally, the Planning and Zoning Director discussed upcoming changes to flood plain maps, and various administrative and financial reports were reviewed.

The board approved a request for an Enterprise Zone change to St. Ansgar EZ 2, which involves an addition of .79 acres. Additionally, the board reviewed and approved a fireworks permit request.

The Board discussed several key business items, including the planning for the RISE road project, specifically setting dates for bid submissions and a public hearing. Resolution #990-17 regarding the temporary closure of Hwy 105 was approved. The Sheriff provided a report concerning a potential damage claim. The Board reviewed the master matrix scoring for the Kuper Hog 3 LLC application and decided to table the final decision. Additionally, the Board reviewed a proposal for odor control at the Valent Pretreatment Plant, approved the suspension of property taxes for specific residents, and appointed a member to the Rural Library Board.