Sandy Fossum

Key discussions included the second reading and final passage of the Model D Ordinance Floodplain Management. The Board approved a gaming permit for the Dakota Antique Power Tractor Club and received correspondence regarding a Garrison Diversion hearing and a Red River Communications Annual Meeting. The U.S. Forest Service provided an update on planned 2026 operations, including prescribed burns and obtaining 911 addresses for campgrounds. Regarding the City of Mooreton's CR 1 Reconstruction Project, the Commission unanimously approved a loan of $125,000 to the city, with a structured repayment schedule over six years, and directed the State's Attorney to draft an agreement. The Highway Department presented a plan to advertise for bids for the CR 1 Project. Communications/911 statistics for 2025 were reviewed, noting a slight decrease in total call volume and a new staff vacancy.

The agenda for the RSR Human Service Zone Board Meeting includes approval motions for monthly expenditures for January and February 2026, as well as financial reports through December 2025 and January 2026. Key discussion topics involve agency updates, including personnel updates, economic assistance updates, and interim legislative workgroup updates, alongside any county updates.

The meeting addressed the approval of monthly expenditures for October and November bills. A financial report for October 2025 was reviewed and approved, noting anticipated year-end budgets might be under projections due to accounting system changes. Key discussion items included personnel updates detailing the hiring process for three vacancies, including retirements and cross-training schedules. Community engagement activities, such as ongoing school meetings and mandated reporter training, were noted. Furthermore, the board reviewed the corrective action plan submitted in response to SNAP ME findings, confirming resolution of issues related to case reviews, staff training, and after-hours drop boxes. Director also provided information regarding the potential impacts of a Federal Shut Down and related supportive funding coordination.

The Commissioners meeting covered several agenda items. The Board approved county depositories, adding First Community Credit Union and Bank It Forward. A revised proposal for a 0.6 FTE Correctional RN in the Health Department, intended to be budget neutral through the use of unspent grant funds, was approved despite two 'NO' votes. The first reading of the Model "D" Ordinance Floodplain Management was approved after minor changes were incorporated. The Highway Department provided updates on grant applications, bridge work, and plowing activities. The Board appointed Jay Townsend to the vacancy on the Board of Health. Gaming permits for Korbin's Krew and Make-A-Wish ND were approved. Otter Tail Power Company presented information regarding a planned High Voltage Transmission Line passing through the county, with construction anticipated around 2030.

The meeting included discussions on the health department's yearly review process, budget reductions, staffing updates, and various program reports. The board reviewed and eliminated the yearly review process. Significant reductions in public health funding and FTEs were noted, with staff juggling multiple programs. Program reports covered staff training, foot care cost increases, immunization grants and outreach, jail nursing, PHIG funding, health tracks/well child screenings, Women's Way program reinstatement, MCH initiatives, tobacco cessation efforts, SOR program implementation, CPR/First Aid/AED classes, hearing and vision screenings, PFS coalition revitalization, babysitting and home alone classes, and WIC program updates, including Richland County taking over the Forman WIC program. The state's Community Health Worker bill was also discussed.