Renae Fry

The board addressed public comments regarding data practices, farmland preservation, and corridor safety. A public hearing was held to accept the 2026 fee schedule. The consent agenda included the acceptance of donations, approval of drainage ditch maintenance levies and interest rates, an aquatic invasive species prevention plan, an E-Notary program, and various contracts and grant acceptances. Additionally, the board approved collective bargaining agreements for peace officers and sergeants, amended an ordinance regulating cannabis businesses, and authorized the withdrawal from the Minnesota Prairie County Alliance Joint Powers Agreement.

The meeting included a presentation on SMART Transit services, highlighting its role in community transportation and accessibility. The Board discussed potentially amending cannabis retailer setbacks to specifically include places of worship. Staff provided recommendations for allocating 2026 Local Homeless Prevention Aid funds to specific housing organizations. Additionally, the Board received an update on an affordable housing aid proposal, which involves a partnership between the City of Owatonna and United Way to develop new affordable housing units.

The board meeting included a presentation on the PowerOn Midwest project, regarding the construction of a 765 kV power line across southern Minnesota, noting that current mapping places the route outside of the county. The board also received an update on the county's vehicle fleet, with staff recommending the installation of tracking devices in administration vehicles to better monitor usage, and discussed services provided by the leasing vendor. Additionally, a scheduled discussion concerning 2026 county highway projects was deferred to a future work session.

The Board agenda included the approval of several resolutions, including the K-9 donation and the Performance Measurement Program. Other topics included the renewal of agency agreements, community corrections fee schedules, and various property and land management issues such as park updates and lot sales. The Board also addressed a resolution regarding a state of peacetime emergency due to civil unrest. Additionally, the proceedings included the approval of the noxious weed law appointment, personnel actions, and authorization for land sale RFPs and topographic surveys.

The Board meeting included a presentation from the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation regarding its recent activities and 2027 budget support request. Key actions included the approval of final payments for several construction and renovation projects, including the Four Seasons Centre roof replacement, the Community Corrections Facility, and the Sheriff's Addition. The Board also approved the Non-Profit Community Partner Award recommendations, amendments to the Steele County Cannabis Ordinance, the formation of the Steele County Community Health Board, and a real estate purchase agreement and lease for property on South Oak Avenue.