Clay County, Minnesota

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The Moorhead‑Clay County Joint Powers Authority board will consider an administrative platting and affidavit request to split a parcel. The meeting also includes updates on property acquisition, excess lands, and Minnesota litigation. Citizens will be given an opportunity to be heard, and routine approvals of the agenda and June 25 minutes will be taken.

• Administrative platting and affidavits for parcel split (action)
• Property acquisition status report
• Excess lands update
• MN litigation action update
• Approval of minutes, June 25, 2026

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

Personnel Issues Committee

Board of Commissioners

Board of Commissioners

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

Personnel Issues Committee

Personnel Issues Committee

Board of Commissioners

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

Board of Commissioners

Board of Adjustment

Planning Commission

Board of Commissioners

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

Board of Commissioners

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

Personnel Issues Committee

Personnel Issues Committee

Board of Commissioners

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

Board of Commissioners

Planning Commission

Board of Adjustment

Board of Commissioners

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

Board of Commissioners

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

Board of Commissioners

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

Personnel Issues Committee

Personnel Issues Committee

Board of Commissioners

Clay-Becker Partnership4Health Community Health Board

Board of Commissioners

Planning Commission

Board of Adjustment

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

Board of Commissioners

Board of Commissioners

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

Personnel Issues Committee

Board of Commissioners

Personnel Issues Committee

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

Planning Commission

Board of Commissioners

Board of Adjustment

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

Board of Commissioners

Board of Commissioners

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

Personnel Issues Committee

Personnel Issues Committee

Board of Commissioners

Board of Adjustment

Planning Commission

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

Board of Commissioners

Board of Commissioners

Personnel Issues Committee

Personnel Issues Committee

Planning Commission

Personnel Issues Committee

Personnel Issues Committee

Planning Commission

Personnel Issues Committee

Personnel Issues Committee

Planning Commission

Personnel Issues Committee

Personnel Issues Committee

Planning Commission

Personnel Issues Committee

Personnel Issues Committee

Personnel Issues Committee

Personnel Issues Committee

Personnel Issues Committee

Personnel Issues Committee

Board of Adjustment

The Clay County Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings regarding two variance requests. The board will review requests related to lot width in a shoreland district and a septic system setback. One variance request has been withdrawn.

• Todd Fuller: Variance request for minimum lot width at building setback (Parcel ID: 18.025.3000)
• Jeremy Clark: Variance request for Ordinary High-Water Level setback for septic system at 2218 130th Ave N
• Western Minnesota Steam Threshers Reunion: Variance request for road centerline setback (Withdrawn)

Planning Commission

The Clay County Planning Commission will hold public hearings to consider four permit requests. These include proposals for a telecommunications hut, a gravel mine, agricultural worker housing, and a solar garden.

• Red River Communications: Conditional use permit for a telecommunications hut in Alliance Township
• Westlund Excavating: Interim use permit for a 39.5-acre gravel mine in Keene Township
• Gerald Zimmerman: Interim use permit for agricultural worker housing in Oakport Township
• White Oak Garden LLC: Conditional use permit for a 5 mega-watt community solar garden in Elmwood Township

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider and approve items on the consent agenda, including the MOA addendum with the University of Minnesota Extension. Commissioners will vote on a Master Service Agreement and Task Order with KLJ Engineering. The board will hear budget presentations from the Soil & Water Conservation District, the Assessor’s Office, the Facilities Department, the Attorney’s Office, and a preliminary budget for 2027. The meeting also includes a public comment period and routine approvals of minutes and payments.

• Approval of the MOA Addendum between the University of MN Extension and Clay County
• Request approval of Master Service Agreement and Task Order with KLJ Engineering
• Budget presentation – Soil & Water Conservation District
• Budget presentation – Assessor's Office
• Clay County 2027 Preliminary Budget Presentation

Clay-Becker Partnership4Health Community Health Board

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hear budget presentations from the Recorder's Office, Highway Department, and Technology Services. The body is also deciding on vehicle replacements and contracts for health and care services.

• Request to replace two jail transport vehicles through Enterprise Fleet Leasing
• Approval of the Public Health Emergency Preparedness All-Hazards Plan
• Contract with Medica for Special Needs Basic Care Coordination Services
• Request to fill the Auditor/Treasurer position due to retirement
• Consideration of staffing level modifications to the University of Minnesota Extension Contract

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

Board of Commissioners

The board will consider authorizing continued evaluation of adding Wilkin County to the West Central Regional Water District (WCRWD). They will also vote on a lobbyist contract, a state grant agreement, and modifications to the University of Minnesota Extension contract. Budget presentations for 2027 will be made for Extension, Human Resources, GIS & Communications, and Planning & Zoning. The meeting begins with a Five-Year Community Impact Update and includes a public comment period.

• Request to authorize WCRWD/AE2S staff to evaluate adding Wilkin County to WCRWD
• Approval of lobbyist legislative services agreement with Winthrop & Weinstein, P.A.
• Modification to University of Minnesota Extension contract regarding staffing levels
• 2027 budget presentations for Human Resources, GIS & Communications, and Planning & Zoning
• Approval of State of Minnesota Grant Agreement

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

Board of Commissioners

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority board will consider project updates including property acquisition status, excess lands, and litigation. Action items include a resolution to accept funds granted by the State of Minnesota, appointment of representatives for state funding, a MDNR funding request, contracting actions, and a reimbursement request.

• Resolution to Accept Funds Granted by State of MN (Action)
• Appointment of Representatives of MN Funding (Action)
• MDNR Funding Request (Action)
• MCCJPA Contracting Actions (Action)
• OIN 250 Bye Reimbursement Request (Action)

Board of Adjustment

The Clay County Board of Adjustment will meet to consider variance requests for septic system setbacks and minimum lot widths. The public can attend in person or virtually.

• Public Hearing: Blake Carson – Variance for septic system setback at 9502 90th St S
• Public Hearing: Bruce and Lucy Raymond – After-the-fact variance for structure setback at 7753 70th St N
• Public Hearing: Todd Fuller – After-the-fact variance for minimum lot width in a shoreland district
• Approval of minutes from March 17, 2026
• Unfinished and New Business

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider several action items, including a grant for the Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility Remodel Project, a correction to 2026 Child Protection Allocation, out-of-state travel requests for Social Services and Restorative Practices, a resolution recognizing the 250th anniversary of the United States, and a grant application for private well protection. The meeting also includes approval of two consent agenda resolutions regarding absentee ballots and an Identified Official with Authority for state education websites.

• Resolution 2026-13 for Absentee and UOCAVA Ballot Boards
• Resolution 2026-14 to Designate an Identified Official with Authority (IOwA) for State Education Secure Websites
• 2026 Child Protection Allocation Correction
• General Construction Fund Grant for the Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility Remodel Project
• Application for a Minnesota Department of Health Private Well Protection Grant

Planning Commission

The Clay County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request for a conditional use permit. The applicant seeks permission for a 999-animal unit cattle feedlot. The proposed feedlot is located on Parcel ID 16.025.4000, SE/14 Section 25, Township 137N, Range 45W, Humboldt Township. No decision will be made at this meeting.

• Conditional use permit request for a 999-animal cattle feedlot on Parcel ID 16.025.4000, SE/14 Section 25, Township 137N, Range 45W, Humboldt Township

Board of Equalization

The Clay County Board of Appeal and Equalization will hear appeals from property owners regarding their 2026 assessments. Scheduled appeals include Walmart Inc., CHS/West Central Ag, and three individual property owners. Unscheduled appeals may also be heard.

• Walmart Inc. #1627 appeal – PID 52.618.0010 and PID 52.618.0040
• CHS / West Central Ag appeal – PID 57.980.0020
• Debra & Michael Steffens appeal – PID 09.004.1103
• Brian Lee appeal – PID 12.027.3500
• Brian Wild appeal – PID 25.033.4600

The Board reviewed and voted on six property assessment appeals. These decisions adjusted the estimated market values for various parcels, including commercial and residential properties.

• Approved $9,400,000 adjusted market value for Walmart Inc. #1627 PID 52.618.0010 (unanimous)
• Approved $76,800 market value to remain the same for Walmart Inc. #1627 PID 52.618.0040 (unanimous)
• Approved $55,100 adjusted market value for West Central Ag Services/CHS PID 57.980.0020 (unanimous)
• Approved $137,900 adjusted market value for Debra & Michael Steffens PID 09.004.1103 (unanimous)
• Approved $214,700 adjusted market value for Brian Lee PID 12.027.3500 (unanimous)
• Approved $414,000 adjusted market value for Brian Wild PID 25.033.4600 (unanimous)
• Approved $758,600 adjusted market value for David Ronsberg PID 26.017.3500 (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider a consent agenda that includes a gambling permit exemption and a juvenile detention worker hire. They will also review requests to renew a correctional health contract, fill health unit positions, apply for behavioral health and recycling grants, and approve a bridge maintenance agreement. Additional items include a software purchase for law‑enforcement, a performance‑measurement resolution, and a recommendation for a state or regional trail designation.

• Approval of the Bridge Maintenance Agreement
• Request approval of the Advanced Correctional Healthcare Contract Renewal
• Request approval to apply for the Crisis Intervention & Behavioral Health Grant for the West Central Regional Juvenile Center
• Request approval of the Axon Justice Software Purchase and Application
• Request approval of the Recommendation for Heartland Trail State or Regional Trail Designation

The Board approved a contract renewal for inmate medical services and various departmental staffing adjustments. Additionally, the Board authorized multiple grant applications related to juvenile detention and solid waste recycling.

• Approved agenda with addition of SNAP support letter (unanimous)
• Approved Pheasants Forever LG220 gambling permit by consent
• Approved hiring an Overnight Juvenile Detention Worker by consent
• Approved bills and vouchers totaling $689,536 (unanimous)
• Approved Advanced Correctional Healthcare contract renewal effective July 1, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Healthcare Unit Eligibility Worker step placement at Grade 14, Step 9 (unanimous)
• Approved application for Crisis Intervention & Behavioral Health Grant (unanimous)
• Approved filling Care Coordinator position and increasing to 1.0 FTE (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

Board of Commissioners

The Board will consider several consent agenda items, including approval of liquor licenses for six local businesses and a notice of intent to sell excess land from the Fargo‑Moorhead Area Flood Diversion Project. Commissioners will also review a budget presentation for the Historical & Cultural Society, letters of support for a federal rail grant and for the CSAH 36 bridge replacement, and an agreement for bridge design. Additional items include resolutions on deficient bridge prioritization and an increase to the Social Services Change Fund.

• Approval of liquor licenses for J&M Bar Services LLC, Mainline Bar & Grill, Buffalo River Speedway LLC, Willow Creek Golf Course, Rustic Oaks, and Venue 31
• Notice of intent to sell excess land from the Fargo‑Moorhead Area Flood Diversion Project
• Letter of support request for the Federal Rail Grant
• Letter of support request for CSAH 36 bridge replacement
• Agreement request for bridge design

The Board approved several infrastructure items including a bridge design agreement with Houston Engineering and letters of support for federal grants. Additionally, the Board passed resolutions prioritizing the replacement or rehabilitation of county and township bridges.

• Approved liquor licenses for six entities by consent
• Approved State Auditor Engagement Letter by consent
• Notified MFDA of intent not to purchase excess lands by consent
• Approved Pheasants Forever LG220 gambling application by consent
• Approved bills and vouchers totaling $1,397,111
• Approved letter of support for Federal Rail Grant
• Approved letter of support for CSAH 36 Bridge Replacement
• Approved agreement for bridge design with Houston Engineering

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners meets in a work group session to discuss several topics, including legislative planning, the Heartland Trail, a solar project, and the 2027 budget target. No formal action will be taken at this meeting.

• Discussion on Clay County Legislative Planning with Winthrop & Weinstine
• Heartland Trail discussion
• Clay County Solar Project discussion
• Clay County 2027 Budget Target discussion

The Board held a work group session to discuss upcoming legislative goals, including psychiatric residential treatment and water district funding. Commissioners also reviewed the Heartland Trail project and received a presentation on solar development and permitting.

• Approved the meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Tabled Heartland Trail discussion for a formal decision at the next Board meeting

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

Board of Commissioners

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. The board will review employee recognitions, approve bills and vouchers, and approve the minutes from May 19, 2026.

• Approval of payment of bills and vouchers
• Approval of May 19, 2026 meeting minutes
• Employee recognitions

The Clay County Board approved its agenda, approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $9,229,346, and approved the minutes from the May 19, 2026 meeting. All three actions were carried unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $9,229,346 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from May 19, 2026 (unanimous)

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority board will receive updates on property acquisition status, excess lands, and Minnesota litigation. Items include land management notices and negotiation summaries for specific acquisition parcels. Citizens may address the board during the public comment period.

• Property Acquisition Status Report (Justin, pp. 13-21)
• Excess Lands Update (Justin, pp. 22-25)
• MN Litigation Action Update (Chris, pp. 26-27)
• OIN 1267/1268 Blilie Amended FE Language (Luke, p. 31)
• OIN 8793 City of Wolverton Negotiation Summary (Katie, pp. 34-37)

The joint authority approved up to $15,000 to replace farm field access for OIN1850x1. It also approved a $3,000 flowage easement agreement with the City of Wolverton. An additional $6,000 attorney fee increase was authorized, bringing total fees for OIN1267/1268 to $52,000. A notice to OIN7107 about the mitigation deadline was approved. All motions were carried.

• Approved up to $15,000 for replacement of farm field access (OIN1850x1) – Motion carried
• Approved $3,000 flowage easement settlement with City of Wolverton (OIN8793) – Motion carried
• Approved additional $6,000 attorney fees, total $52,000 for OIN1267/1268 Blilie – Motion carried
• Approved sending mitigation completion deadline notice to OIN7107 Miller – Motion carried
• Approved agenda – Motion carried
• Approved minutes from April 23, 2026 – Motion carried

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve the payment of bills, minutes, and a request to lease 10 vehicles for the Sheriff's Office. The board will also consider letters of support for federal rail safety grants.

• Approval of payment of bills and vouchers
• Approval of minutes from May 12, 2026
• Request to lease 10 vehicles for Sheriff's Office
• Letter of support for Federal Rail Administration grant
• Letter of support for Railroad Crossing Safety Program Grant

The board approved the agenda, paid $8.68 million in bills, and adopted minutes from the May 12 meeting. It unanimously endorsed letters of support for two Federal Rail Administration grant applications. It also approved a $655,420.60 lease for ten new sheriff‑office vehicles.

• Approved agenda (unanimously)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $8,680,340 (unanimously)
• Approved minutes from May 12, 2026 (unanimously)
• Approved Letter of Support for Federal Rail Administration CRISI Grant (unanimously)
• Approved Letter of Support for Federal Rail Administration Railroad Crossing Safety Program Grant (unanimously)
• Approved lease of 10 vehicles from Enterprise Fleet Management for $655,420.60 for Sheriff's Office (unanimously)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider a strategic staffing realignment for Financial Services Eligibility Worker positions, approve several new hires including an LPN and RN Lead, and vote on an amendment to a Minnesota Department of Transportation agreement. The board will also receive the Adult Mental Health Local Advisory Council annual report and recognize National Treatment Court Month.

• Strategic Staffing Realignment Proposal for Financial Services Eligibility Worker positions
• Amendment to MNDOT Agreement #1061904
• Approval to hire a full-time LPN and an RN Lead at Grade 19, Step 8
• City of Dilworth Community Center Project – Tax Abatement Bond Acknowledgment
• Adult Mental Health Local Advisory Council Annual Report

The Board unanimously approved an amendment to MNDOT Contract #1061904, adding $293,478 in additional federal funding. It also approved payment of $498,733 in bills and vouchers from 102 vendors. Several staffing positions were approved, including a full‑time LPN, a maintenance worker, a .6 FTE WIC Registered Dietitian, and an RN Lead at Grade 19, Step 8. Additional actions included a tax‑abatement bond acknowledgment for the City of Dilworth Community Center project and the proclamation of May 2026 as National Treatment Court Month.

• Approved amendment to MNDOT Contract #1061904 adding $293,478 federal funds (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $498,733 from 102 vendors (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of a full‑time Licensed Practical Nurse (by consent)
• Approved hiring of a Maintenance Worker (by consent)
• Approved .6 FTE WIC Registered Dietitian position (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of RN Lead at Grade 19, Step 8 (unanimous)
• Approved tax‑abatement bond acknowledgment for City of Dilworth Community Center Project (by consent)
• Approved proclamation of May 2026 as National Treatment Court Month (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Westlund Excavating's request for an interim use permit for a 39.5-acre gravel mine on Parcel ID 17.031.0100 in Keene Township. The commission will also receive an introduction to data centers as new business. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and a public comment period.

• Public hearing for interim use permit for 39.5-acre gravel mine by Westlund Excavating in Keene Township (Parcel ID 17.031.0100)
• Introduction to data centers presentation as new business item
• Approval of minutes from April 21, 2026

The commission opened and closed a public hearing on Westlund Excavating’s request for an interim use permit on a 39.5‑acre gravel mine in Keene Township. After discussion, the commissioners voted unanimously to grant the permit with a list of conditions, including a termination date of Dec. 31, 2036 and a $40,000 reclamation bond. No other business was decided.

• Opened public hearing on Westlund Excavating interim use permit (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing (unanimous)
• Granted interim use permit with conditions, including $40,000 reclamation bond (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review a budget update presentation and a proposed timeline for the 2027 budget. The meeting includes requests to amend the abatement policy and approve travel for the 2026 NACo Annual Conference & Exposition.

• Tax abatement for Dakota Development Cons. for pay years 2024, 2025, and 2026
• Amended language to the Abatement Policy
• Approval to fill vacated Accounting Tech and Deputy Auditor - Motor Vehicle positions
• 2027 Budget Timeline approval
• Proclamations for Family Child Care and Foster Parent Appreciation Months

The Clay County Board unanimously approved an advocacy letter to the Minnesota House and conference committee about SNAP penalty and administrative cost shifts, including the county’s error‑rate data. The Board also approved the 2027 budget timeline, several personnel hires, the 2026 budget payments, and two proclamations recognizing family child‑care and foster‑parent appreciation months.

• Approved sending SNAP advocacy letter (unanimous)
• Approved 2027 budget timeline (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $1,027,084 (unanimous)
• Approved fill vacant Accounting Tech position (by consent)
• Approved replace Deputy Auditor – Motor Vehicle position (by consent)
• Approved tax abatement for Dakota Development Corp. for 2024‑2026 (by consent)
• Approved proclamation for Family Child Care Appreciation Month (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation for Foster Parent Appreciation Month (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners is holding an emergency meeting that consists primarily of a closed session under Minnesota law to discuss pending litigation and attorney-client privileged matters. No public votes or action items are scheduled; the meeting opens with standard procedural items and adjourns after the closed session.

• Closed session to discuss pending litigation per Minn. Stat. 13D.05, Subd. 3(b) and attorney-client privilege

The board unanimously approved the meeting agenda. It then voted to enter a closed session to discuss pending litigation under Minnesota Statute 13D.05, Subdivision 3(b). The board later unanimously voted to exit the closed session and adjourn the meeting.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Entered closed session on pending litigation (unanimous)
• Exited closed session (unanimous)

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider approving a professional services proposal for a Law Enforcement Center feasibility study and hold a closed session to discuss security systems. Other business includes a wildlife habitat presentation, a mental health proclamation, and approval of replacement firewalls and a final contract voucher for a road project.

• Wildlife Habitat Protection presentation by The Nature Conservancy
• Mental Health Month proclamation and Children's Mental Health annual report
• Closed session under Minn. Stat. § 13D.05 subd. 3(d) for security briefings
• Request approval to purchase replacement firewalls
• Request approval of final contract voucher for SAP 014-634-032

The Clay County Board unanimously approved the final contract voucher for the Mill and Overlay project on CSAH 34, authorizing a payment of $1,846,671.44. It also approved a $93,037 purchase of new firewalls, a $10,000 feasibility study for the Law Enforcement Center, and proclaimed May 2026 as Mental Health Month. All actions were carried out with unanimous votes.

• Approved final contract voucher for CSAH 34 Mill and Overlay project ($1,846,671.44) (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of new firewalls through High Point Networks ($93,037.00) (unanimous)
• Approved Clay County Law Enforcement Center feasibility study ($10,000) (unanimous)
• Proclaimed May 2026 as Mental Health Month in Clay County (unanimous)
• Approved Children's Mental Health LAC Membership (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $493,280 from 113 vendors (unanimous)
• Approved agenda for the meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from April 21, 2026 (unanimous)

Personnel Issues Committee

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will review an appointment for the County Emergency Manager and a request for the Sheriff's Office to buy a range equipment trailer. The board is also considering an ordinance regarding firearm limitations for deer hunting and a tax abatement for G.Wambach.

• Ordinance 2026-01: Retaining Firearm Limitations For Deer Hunting In Clay County
• Appointment of Clay County Emergency Manager
• Authorization for Sheriff's Office to purchase an enclosed trailer for range equipment
• Tax abatement for G.Wambach due to a clerical error
• LG220 Application for Exempt Permit for Pheasants Forever

The Board unanimously approved the appointment of Lieutenant Nicole Reno as the new Clay County Emergency Manager. It also approved the purchase of an enclosed trailer for the Sheriff’s Office for $7,192 and approved step placement for a Healthcare Unit Eligibility Worker at Grade 14, Step 9. Additionally, the Board approved payment of $234,843 in bills and vouchers and several routine items such as a gambling permit and a tax abatement.

• Approved appointment of Lieutenant Nicole Reno as Emergency Manager (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of enclosed trailer for Sheriff’s Office, $7,192 (unanimous)
• Approved step placement for Healthcare Unit Eligibility Worker, Grade 14 Step 9 (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $234,843 (unanimous)
• Approved Minnesota Lawful Gambling LG220 exempt permit for Pheasants Forever (by consent)
• Approved tax abatement for G. Wambach due to clerical error (by consent)
• Approved Ordinance 2026-01 retaining firearm limitations for deer hunting (by consent)
• Approved minutes from April 14, 2026 (unanimous)

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

Personnel Issues Committee

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority will discuss property acquisition and excess lands related to the Metro Flood Diversion Project. The board will consider a Resolution of Necessity for Wolverton Area property rights and a tax exemption application for OIN 1252.

• Resolution of Necessity for Wolverton Area Property Rights
• OIN 1252 Tax Exemption Application
• OIN 1826 Ness Relocation Reimbursement
• Metro Flood Diversion Project Excess Lands Update
• C-W Valley Coop Discussion

The joint authority approved its agenda and the minutes from the April 2 meeting. Commissioners approved MFDA staff submitting a tax‑exemption application for OIN 1252 (Kragerud). The board also approved an extension for OIN 1794/1795 (Willem) to vacate the property by May 15, 2026.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved minutes from April 2, 2026 (motion carried)
• Approved MFDA staff to submit tax exemption application for OIN 1252 Kragerud (motion carried)
• Approved extension for OIN 1794/1795 Willem to vacate by May 15, 2026 (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

This is a work group session for discussion only; no formal board actions will be taken. Commissioners will receive updates on Clay County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) projects, legislative matters, and the HRA budget forecast. A 2026 household update will also be presented.

• Clay County HRA project updates
• Clay County HRA legislative update
• Clay County HRA budget forecast
• Clay County housing household update for 2026

The work group session provided updates on HRA staffing, occupancy, funding, and program status. Commissioners asked questions about waitlists, safety, funding, and the HRA-MPHA merger. No motions, approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding a request for a gravel mine and a proposed ordinance amendment. The body is considering standards for vacation home rentals and an interim use permit for a specific property in Parke Township.

• Interim use permit request for a 38-acre gravel mine at 11100 290th St. S, Hawley, MN
• Proposed amendment to the Land Development & Subdivision Ordinance regarding Vacation Home Rental (VHR) standards

The commission approved its agenda and the March 17 minutes, then opened and closed a public hearing on RJ Zavoral & Sons' request for an interim use permit. It unanimously granted the interim use permit for a 38‑acre gravel mine, attaching 13 specific conditions. The commission also opened a public hearing on a proposed amendment to regulate vacation home rentals.

• Approved agenda (unanimously)
• Approved March 17, 2026 minutes (unanimously)
• Opened public hearing on RJ Zavoral interim use permit (unanimously)
• Closed public hearing on RJ Zavoral interim use permit (unanimously)
• Granted interim use permit for 38‑acre gravel mine with 13 conditions (unanimously)
• Opened public hearing on Vacation Home Rental ordinance amendment (unanimously)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss draft ordinance language for the 2026 deer hunting season. The body is also deciding on fee increases for environmental health and rate increases for school nurse contracts.

• Draft ordinance language for the 2026 Deer Hunting Season
• Request to increase Non-Delegated Environmental Health Fees
• Request for rate increases to School Nurse Contracts
• Power Plant Roof Replacement Project approval
• Relocation of Social Services Healthcare Financial Team to Suite 200 of the Family Service Center

Clay-Becker Partnership4Health Community Health Board

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will vote on a consent agenda that includes a tax abatement for R. Anderson correcting a clerical error for 2025 and 2026, and an updated memorandum of agreement between the County Public Health department and Mayville State University. The agenda also covers employee recognitions, payment of bills and vouchers, an annual update from the Social Services divisions, and committee reports. Citizens may address the board after the agenda items are approved.

• Tax abatement for R. Anderson for years 2025 & 2026
• Updated Memorandum of Agreement between Public Health and Mayville State University
• Employee recognitions
• Approval of payment of bills and vouchers
• Annual Department Update – Social Services: Home & Community Based Services and Licensing & Disability Services

The Clay County Board approved the agenda, a tax abatement for R. Anderson for 2025‑2026, and an updated memorandum of agreement with Mayville State University. By unanimous consent the Board also approved vendor bills and vouchers totaling $1,036,888. No public comments were heard.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved tax abatement for R. Anderson (by consent)
• Approved updated memorandum of agreement with Mayville State University (by consent)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $1,036,888 (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve various contracts, including a snowmobile trail legal sponsor resolution and road design services. The meeting includes a public hearing on draft ordinances for shotgun-only deer hunting zones.

• Public hearing on shotgun-only/rifle restricted deer hunting zones
• Approval of legal sponsor for DNR snowmobile trail funding
• Approval of road design services request for proposals
• Approval of yearly supply and gravel bids
• Approval of composting grant application

The board approved tax abatements for two entities, authorized $1,005,493 in vendor payments, and adopted several resolutions including sponsoring DNR snowmobile trail funding, appointing a planning commissioner, proclaiming Child Abuse Prevention Month, and approving a $2 million composting grant. It also approved the final payment for a bridge removal project, the advertisement for a joint bridge replacement, and the MNDOT grant for a roundabout project.

• Approved tax abatement for J. Zincke (2025‑2026) by consent
• Approved tax abatement for J C Chumley's Inc. (terminated lease) by consent
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $1,005,493 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2026‑08 to act as legal sponsor for DNR snowmobile trail funding (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Jeff Winter to the Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation of April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month (unanimous)
• Approved application for a $2 million MPCA composting grant (unanimous)
• Approved final contract voucher for Bridge Removal Project SAP 014‑599‑106 for $62,635.10 (unanimous)

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The board will review property acquisition and litigation updates. Members will consider reimbursements for access installments and contracting actions. The meeting includes discussions on parcel splits and debris removal restoration.

• OIN 1630 Reimbursement for Access Installment
• OIN 1794 1795 Willem update
• MCCJPA Contracting Actions
• Administrative Platting and Affidavits for Parcel Split
• Post-Operation Debris Removal and Restoration Sub-Committee

The Joint Powers Authority approved the release of $14,950 from escrow to Tom and Katherine Askegaard for the OIN 1630 field‑access installation. The board also extended the cleanup deadline for Richard Willem’s property (OIN 1794/1795) to May 15, 2026, approved SRF Consulting Group Task Order 2 Amendment 0, and authorized signing affidavits for a parcel split in Holy Cross Township. Staff reported that overall project timelines remain on track.

• Approved release of $14,950 escrow funds for OIN 1630 (motion carried)
• Approved extension for Richard Willem’s property cleanup to May 15, 2026 (board approval)
• Approved SRF Consulting Group Task Order 2 Amendment 0 (motion carried)
• Approved signing affidavits for parcel split in Section 20, Holy Cross Township (motion carried)

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider several consent agenda items, including filling a vacant full‑time custodial position and approving payment of bills and vouchers. Commissioners will vote on appointing Michael Butenhoff to the County Extension Committee and on applying for a Drug‑Free Communities Grant. The board will also discuss whether the West Central Regional Juvenile Center may occupy Suite 103C at the Family Service Center. Citizens may address the board on any county‑related issue during the public comment period.

• Approval to fill a vacant full‑time custodial position (consent agenda)
• Appointment of Michael Butenhoff to the Clay County Extension Committee
• Request to apply for the Drug‑Free Communities Grant
• Request approval for West Central Regional Juvenile Center to occupy Suite 103C at the Family Service Center
• Approval of payment of bills and vouchers (consent agenda)

The board unanimously approved a $5 million application for Congressional Directed Funding for the West Central Regional Juvenile Center, authorized the county to apply for a Drug‑Free Communities grant, and approved the occupancy of Suite 103C at the Family Service Center by the juvenile center. It also approved $423,370 in vendor payments, filled a vacant full‑time custodial position, and appointed Michael Butenhoff to a three‑year term on the Clay County Extension Committee.

• Approved $5,000,000 Congressional Directed Funding application for West Central Regional Juvenile Center (unanimous)
• Approved application for Drug-Free Communities grant (up to $125,000 per year for five years) (unanimous)
• Approved occupancy of Suite 103C at Family Service Center by West Central Regional Juvenile Center (unanimous)
• Approved payment of vendor bills and vouchers totaling $423,370 (unanimous)
• Approved filling of vacant full‑time custodial position in Facilities Department (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Michael Butenhoff to a 3‑year term on Clay County Extension Committee (unanimous)
• Approved agenda addition to request approval for congressional funding for juvenile center (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from March 10 and March 17, 2026 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Clay County Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on two variance applications for commercial use and setback adjustments, and note the withdrawal of a third variance request. The board will also consider routine agenda approvals and minutes from the January 27th meeting.

• Scott Dahms – variance to minimum lot size for a commercial business at 11649 123rd Ave S, Sabin (Parcel ID: 01.050.6011)
• Matt and Amanda Henry – variance to Ordinary High-Water Level and road right‑of‑way setbacks at 3487 110th Ave N, Moorhead (Parcel ID: 18.065.0107)
• Jeff Klein and Jim Olson – withdrawn variance request for road centerline setback at 14852 90th Ave S, Barnesville (Parcel ID: 05.021.1001)
• Approval of agenda
• Approval of minutes from January 27, 2026

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from January 27, 2026. It opened and then closed the public hearing on the Henry variance request, and unanimously granted the variance with specific setback conditions. The variance applications for Jeff Klein & Jim Olson and Scott Dahms were withdrawn by the applicants. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• January 27 minutes approved (unanimous)
• Public hearing on Henry variance opened (unanimous)
• Public hearing on Henry variance closed (unanimous)
• Variance granted to Matt and Amanda Henry with 132‑ft OHWL setback and 40‑ft road setback (unanimous)
• Jeff Klein & Jim Olson variance withdrawn before hearing
• Scott Dahms variance withdrawn by applicant
• Meeting adjourned (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will receive annual updates from the Assessor's Office and the Highway department. The body is also considering personnel replacements and a permit agreement with the Diversion Authority.

• Approval to replace Waiver Case Manager and Eligibility Worker positions
• Revision of the Solid Waste Certificate of Need Letter for the MPCA
• Final contract voucher for SAP 014-634-031
• Permit and License Agreement with the Diversion Authority
• Information on the Six Remnant Defendants Opioid Settlement

The Clay County Board unanimously approved the final contract voucher of $743,983.51 for the Mill and Overlay project from Ulen to the county line. It also approved a permit and license agreement with the Diversion Authority, and authorized payment of $758,531 in bills and vouchers. Additional consent items included staffing backfills, a solid‑waste certificate revision, and opioid‑settlement information.

• Approved Final Contract Voucher for SAP 014-634-031, $743,983.51 (unanimous)
• Approved Permit and License Agreement with the Diversion Authority (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $758,531 (unanimous)
• Approved backfill for Waiver Case Manager position if internal interest (by consent)
• Approved backfill for Eligibility Worker position if internal interest (by consent)
• Approved revised Solid Waste Certificate of Need letter for MPCA (by consent)
• Approved National Opioid Settlement Information – Six Remnant Defendants (by consent)
• Approved minutes from March 3, 2026 (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding two permit amendment requests. The body will also review a groundwater report and make an appointment recommendation to the County Board.

• Public hearing: Joel Hildebrandt request to amend Interim Use Permit #745283 at 22263 Hwy 10, Hawley, MN
• Public hearing: Glyndon Rod & Gun Club request to amend Conditional Use Permit #598349 at 15258 60th Ave S, Glyndon, MN
• Review of 2025 MN DNR Groundwater Areas of Concern Report
• Planning Commission Appointment Recommendation to County Board

The commission opened and closed a public hearing on an interim use permit amendment for 22263 Hwy 10 in Hawley. It then unanimously granted the amendment, allowing the facility to house up to 80 animals and imposing specific operational and site‑plan conditions. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Granted Interim Use Permit Amendment for 22263 Hwy 10, Hawley (unanimous) – permits up to 80 animals and adds parking, operations, hours, septic and parcel‑combination conditions

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider several contract approvals and a new meeting room use policy. The meeting includes annual department updates from Solid Waste, Facilities, and Probation/Department of Corrections.

• Food Service Agreement with Trinity Food Services
• Contract renewal with UKG
• Bridge MOU with Cass County
• Adoption of the Clay County Meeting Room Use Policy
• Bid opening for SP 014-070-016

The Clay County Board unanimously approved the low bid of $2,899,657.18 for the CSAH 12/52 roundabout project. It also adopted the 2026‑2027 township maintenance contract at $1,120 per mile, approved a bridge memorandum of understanding with Cass County, and adopted the county meeting‑room use policy. Additional approvals included a food services contract, out‑of‑state travel, a $1,000 donation, and payment of bills totaling $714,279.

• Approved low bid $2,899,657.18 for SP 014-070-016 roundabout (unanimously)
• Approved 2026‑2027 Township Maintenance Contract at $1,120/mile (unanimously)
• Approved Bridge MOU with Cass County (unanimously)
• Approved Food Services Agreement with Trinity Food Services for juvenile facilities (unanimously)
• Approved out‑of‑state travel for Juvenile Detention Training Coordinator to Colorado (unanimously)
• Approved donation $1,000 to Sheriff’s Office K9 program (by consent)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $714,279 (unanimously)
• Approved and adopted Clay County Meeting Room Use Policy (unanimously)

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will conduct a public hearing regarding a text amendment petition from Scott Dahms. The board will also review annual department updates and consider several grant applications and procurement requests.

• Public hearing: Scott Dahms petition for text amendment
• Amended lease agreement between Clay County and Productive Alternatives – Family Services
• Application for MPCA Wasted Food and Food Rescue Grant
• MOU with the City of Moorhead for MPCA Enforcement Action Grant Funds
• Approval to purchase crackfiller for the Highway Department

The Clay County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the meeting agenda, a consent agenda including a gambling permit for the Barnesville Fire Department Relief Association and an amended lease with Productive Alternatives – Family Services. They also approved payment of $1,761,786 in bills and vouchers, the February 17 minutes, a proclamation for Social Worker Appreciation Month, and the appointment of Gayle Holte to the Solid Waste Advisory Committee. Additionally, the Board authorized opening a public hearing on a petition to amend the land development ordinance.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved amended lease with Productive Alternatives – Family Services (by consent)
• Approved Minnesota Lawful Gambling LG220 exempt permit for Barnesville Fire Department Relief Association (by consent)
• Approved payment of $1,761,786 in bills and vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from February 17, 2026 (unanimous)
• Proclaimed March 2026 as Social Worker Appreciation Month (unanimous)
• Approved Gayle Holte as Solid Waste Advisory Committee member (unanimous)
• Approved opening public hearing on text amendment petition (unanimous)

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The MCCJPA board will approve the meeting agenda and the minutes from the January 22, 2026 meeting. Citizens will be given an opportunity to be heard, and the board will receive updates on property acquisition, excess lands, and Minnesota litigation. The board will also vote on a 2026 farmland lease.

• Approval of agenda (action)
• Approval of minutes, Jan. 22, 2026 (action)
• Property acquisition status report
• Excess lands update
• 2026 farmland lease (action)

The board approved the agenda addition to consider a commissioner reimbursement request and then approved the minutes from the January 29, 2026 meeting. A reimbursement of $2,761.01 to Leslie Roos was approved. The two remaining farmland leases for 2026—Matt Ness (3.08 acres) and Pete Livdahl (22.88 acres)—were also approved.

• Approved agenda addition for Commissioner Reimbursement request (motion carried)
• Approved minutes from Jan 29, 2026 (motion carried)
• Approved Commissioner Reimbursement for Leslie Roos $2,761.01 (motion carried)
• Approved two remaining 2026 farmland leases: Matt Ness 3.08 acres, Pete Livdahl 22.88 acres (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board will approve routine items such as the agenda, donation to the Sheriff's K9 program, payment of bills, vouchers, and February 10 minutes. Commissioners will discuss a request to adopt Resolution 2026-07 for state appropriations tied to the Dubuque Erosion Acquisition Project, and will conduct the bid opening for SAP 014-609-010. The meeting also includes updates from the Withdrawal Management/Detox and Sheriff's Office departments, a grant extension request, and committee reports.

• Consent agenda item: donation from Johnson's Auto Repair to the Sheriff's Office K9 Program
• Request approval of Resolution 2026-07 for state appropriations for Clay County and the Dubuque Erosion Acquisition Project
• Bid opening for SAP 014-609-010
• Request approval of the Lead Agency Capacity Building Grant extension
• Annual department update – Sheriff's Office

The Clay County Board unanimously adopted Resolution 2026‑07 to secure state funding for the Dubuque Erosion Acquisition project. It also approved the low bid of $699,984 from Central Specialties for the CSAH 9 Mill and Overlay road project, and extended the DHS Lead Agency Capacity Building grant by one year for $87,187. Additionally, the Board approved $1,175,607 in vendor bills and a $56 donation to the Sheriff’s Office K9 program.

• Adopted Resolution 2026‑07 for state appropriations (unanimous)
• Approved low bid $699,984 from Central Specialties for SAP 014‑609‑010 (unanimous)
• Approved one‑year extension of DHS Lead Agency Capacity Building grant $87,187 (unanimous)
• Approved payment of vendor bills and vouchers totaling $1,175,607 (unanimous)
• Approved donation of $56 from Johnson's Auto Repair to Sheriff’s Office K9 program (by consent)
• Approved agenda for the meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from February 10, 2026 (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board will consider several staffing and contract items, including a donation to the Sheriff's K9 program and multiple position fills. They will vote on a vehicle replacement request for the Sheriff's Office and approve memoranda of understanding with the U.S. Marshals and Postal Inspection Service task forces. Additional approvals include a new juvenile center position, a temporary promotion in road maintenance, and a resolution for small city street allotment.

• Donation from Randall's Excavating to the Sheriff's Office K9 Program
• Request approval for vehicle replacement for the Sheriff's Office
• Approve MOU addendum with U.S. Marshals Task Force for body‑worn cameras
• Approve new Facility Integrity and Compliance Coordinator position at West Central Regional Juvenile Center
• Approve temporary promotion of Road Foreman to Maintenance Supervisor

The Clay County Board unanimously approved vendor bills and vouchers totaling $933,858. It also approved a $5,000 donation to the sheriff’s K9 program, multiple staff hires and backfills, vehicle lease for the sheriff’s office, and updates to memoranda of understanding with federal task forces. All actions were carried out by consent or unanimous vote.

• Approved donation from Randall's Excavating to Sheriff's Office K9 program ($5,000) by consent
• Approved vendor bills and vouchers totaling $933,858 (unanimous)
• Approved lease of two Ford Expeditions for the Sheriff's Office (unanimous)
• Approved updated MOU and Body‑Worn Camera addendum with U.S. Marshals Task Force (unanimous)
• Approved updated MOU with United States Postal Inspection Service Task Force (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of Engineering Technician/Senior Engineering Technician for Highway Department (by consent)
• Approved creation of Facility Integrity and Compliance Coordinator position at West Central Regional Juvenile Center (unanimous)
• Approved temporary promotion of Road Foreman to Maintenance Supervisor with wage increase (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Clay County Board of Adjustment will consider a variance to the minimum lot size for a commercial business operating in an existing grain elevator at 11649 123rd Ave S, Sabin (Parcel ID 01.050.6011). This hearing continues a previous public hearing on the same request. The meeting will also approve the agenda and the minutes from the January 27, 2026 meeting.

• Public hearing – variance request for minimum lot size at 11649 123rd Ave S, Sabin (Parcel ID 01.050.6011)
• Approval of agenda
• Approval of minutes from January 27, 2026

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a request from Westlund Excavating to change operating hours and dates for a gravel mine. The commission will also receive a department update and elect officers.

• Public hearing: Westlund Excavating request to amend interim use permit #792404 for a gravel mine in Keene Township
• 2025 Planning and Zoning Department Update
• Election of Officers

The commission opened and then closed a public hearing on Westlund Excavating’s request to amend its interim use permit. It then unanimously approved the Interim Use Permit Amendment, attaching eleven specific conditions. Officers were re‑elected to their current positions, and the agenda and prior minutes were approved unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved January 27 minutes (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing on permit amendment (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing (unanimous)
• Granted Interim Use Permit Amendment with 11 conditions (unanimous)
• Re‑elected officers to current positions (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will discuss setting a public hearing date for rifle-restricted zones. The board is also considering the purchase of laptop and desktop computers and the approval of 2026 legislative priorities.

• Public hearing date for Shotgun-Only Rifle-Restricted Zones
• Approval of 2026 Legislative Priorities
• Purchase of laptop computers
• Purchase of desktop computers
• Exempt permit applications for Pheasants Forever and Barnesville Thursday Nite Lions

The Clay County Board approved a public hearing for April 7, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. to discuss draft ordinances on shotgun‑only/rifle‑restricted deer‑hunting zones. It also approved two lawful‑gambling exempt permits, the county’s 2026 legislative priorities, payment of $813,365 in bills, purchase of laptops and desktops, and moved the April 7 board meeting to 5:00 p.m.

• Approved Minnesota Lawful Gambling LG220 exempt permit for Pheasants Forever (by consent)
• Approved Minnesota Lawful Gambling LG220 exempt permit for Barnesville Thursday Nite Lions (by consent)
• Approved Clay County's 2026 Legislative Priorities (by consent)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $813,365 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 100 Dell laptops for $133,250 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 50 desktop computers for $58,950 (unanimous)
• Approved moving the April 7, 2026 board meeting to 5:00 p.m. (unanimous)
• Approved setting a public hearing on April 7, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. for shotgun‑only/rifle‑restricted hunting zones (unanimous)

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

The council approved the December 2024 meeting minutes unanimously. They decided to postpone discussion of scholarship opportunities to the next meeting. No other motions were adopted.

• Approved December meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion of scholarship opportunities until next month

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss Minnesota Statute § 97B.031 and potential legislative priorities for the 2026 session. No formal actions will be taken.

• Discussion of Minnesota Statute § 97B.031
• Discussion of 2026 legislative priorities
• Upcoming intergovernmental retreat on January 30
• FMWF Chamber legislative preview on February 4
• AMC Legislative Conference on March 3-5

The Board discussed Minnesota Statute § 97B.031 and the county's ability to set local firearm limits for deer hunting, but no ordinance was adopted. Commissioners agreed a public hearing on the issue will be held in early April, though no date was set. They also reviewed possible 2026 bonding and policy priorities, without finalizing any priorities.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review requests for 2026 affordable housing and homeless prevention aid contracts. The meeting includes requests for landfill equipment repairs and a bridge replacement support letter.

• 2026 Statewide Affordable Housing Aid Contract
• 2026 Local Homeless Prevention Aid Contract
• Approval to repair landfill dozer and replace landfill pump controls
• Letter of support for CSAH 36 Bridge Replacement
• Revision to the Capital Asset Policy Thresholds

The Clay County Board unanimously approved several items, including a revision to the County’s Capital Asset Policy, repairs to the landfill dozer and leachate pump, and two major housing contracts. The 2026 Statewide Affordable Housing Aid contract was approved for $81,550, and the Local Homeless Prevention Aid contract was approved for $303,877. The Board also approved advertising for a roundabout project, a letter of support for a regional bridge replacement, and out‑of‑state travel for Commissioner Krabbenhoft.

• Approved revision to Capital Asset Policy (effective Jan 1 2025) – unanimous
• Approved $44,094.47 repair of landfill dozer using Internal Service Funds – unanimous
• Approved $23,125.00 replacement of landfill leachate pump controls – unanimous
• Approved $81,550 Statewide Affordable Housing Aid contract with Clay County HRA – unanimous
• Approved $303,877 Local Homeless Prevention Aid contract with Lakes and Prairies CAPLP – unanimous
• Approved advertisement for roundabout project SP 014‑070‑016 with letting date March 10 2026 – unanimous
• Approved letter of support for CSAH 36 Bridge Replacement – unanimous
• Approved Commissioner Krabbenhoft’s out‑of‑state travel to Washington, D.C. – unanimous

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The Joint Powers Authority will vote on several reimbursement requests, including OIN 1635 and OIN 1826 Ness. It will also consider land‑management actions such as an amendment to a flowage easement, a forest‑mitigation deed restriction, and a personal‑property removal and storage agreement. Additional items include a contract action for MCCJPA. No other decisions are listed.

• OIN 1635 reimbursement request (Ken)
• OIN 1826 Ness reimbursement request (Ken)
• OIN 1824X2 Ness amendment to flowage easement (Eric)
• Forest mitigation deed restriction (John)
• MCCJPA contracting actions (Eric)

The authority approved reimbursement requests for OIN 1635 ($1,760) and OIN 1826 ($50,000) and accepted the commissioner expense reimbursements. It also approved an amendment to the flowage easement for OIN 1824X2 to correct the zone designation, adopted deed restrictions for forest‑mitigation parcels, and authorized a lease extension for OIN 1794/1795 with a new vacate deadline and storage option.

• Approved OIN 1635 reimbursement request of $1,760.00 (motion carried)
• Approved OIN 1826 reimbursement request of $50,000.00 (motion carried)
• Approved commissioner expense reimbursements totaling $5,386.61 (motion carried)
• Approved amendment to flowage easement for OIN 1824X2 to reference Zone 4A (motion carried)
• Approved deed and use restrictions for forest mitigation site parcels (motion carried)
• Approved lease extension for OIN 1794/1795 granting vacate deadline of April 22 2026 and storage option (motion carried)

Board of Adjustment

The Clay County Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings to consider three variance requests. These include a setback request for a grain bin and two requests regarding a commercial business in an existing grain elevator.

• Nate Thompson: Variance request for road centerline setback for a grain bin (Parcel ID: 16.023.3700)
• Scott Dahms: Variance request for road centerline and property line setbacks at 11649 123rd Ave S, Sabin, MN
• Scott Dahms: Variance request for minimum lot size at 11649 123rd Ave S, Sabin, MN

The Board of Adjustment unanimously granted a variance allowing a grain bin to be placed 95 feet from the Highway 34 centerline, with a condition that a site plan be submitted to MnDOT. The Board also unanimously denied a variance request to operate a commercial business in an existing grain elevator in Baker.

• Granted grain bin variance – bin must be at least 95 ft from road centerline; site plan to MnDOT – unanimous
• Denied commercial‑use variance for grain elevator – unanimous

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hear a petition to amend the Clay County Land Development Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations to lower the minimum lot size for all commercial uses and to reduce residential setbacks for cannabis businesses countywide. The commission will also consider an interim use home‑occupation permit request for a service business in Hawley and two conditional use permit requests for community solar gardens (1 MW and 4.75 MW) on specified parcels. The meeting includes routine items such as approval of the agenda, minutes, and public hearing procedures.

• Petition to amend ordinance: reduce minimum commercial lot size and cannabis business setbacks (property at 11649 123" Ave S, Sabin)
• Interim use home‑occupation permit request for service business at 27655 102"4 Ave S, Hawley
• Conditional use permit amendment for 1 MW solar garden on Parcel ID 07.034.4600 (Felton Township)
• Conditional use permit for 4.75 MW solar garden on Parcel ID 06.005.3600 (Elmwood Township)

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the November 18, 2025 meeting. They also unanimously voted to open the public hearing on Scott Dahms’ petition to amend the land development ordinance regarding cannabis business setbacks and commercial lot sizes. No final decision on the proposed amendment was made during this meeting.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved November 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing on cannabis amendment petition (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve the hiring of a clinic nurse and a sanitarian, restructure public health clinic hours, and amend the county's re-hiring process. The meeting also includes a legislative update and consent agenda items.

• Approval to fill clinic nurse position due to retirement
• Approval to restructure Public Health Clinic hours
• Approval to fill open Sanitarian position
• Approval of MPCA Funding recommendation
• Approval to amend county re-hiring process

The board voted unanimously to cut the Clay County Public Health Clinic schedule from five days to two days per week, effective March 2 2026. It also unanimously approved filling the Clinic/Family Home Visiting Nurse position, backfilling the Sanitarian role in Environmental Health, and paying $1,460,535 in vendor bills. Additionally, the board approved three Minnesota lawful‑gambling applications by consent.

• Approved reduction of Clay County Public Health Clinic hours to two days per week (unanimous, motion by Commissioner Ebinger)
• Approved filling the Clinic/Family Home Visiting Nurse position (unanimous, motion by Commissioner Baer)
• Approved filling the Sanitarian position within Environmental Health (unanimous, motion by Commissioner Ebinger)
• Approved payment of vendor bills and warrants totaling $1,460,535 (unanimous, motion by Commissioner Krabbenhoft)
• Approved Minnesota Lawful Gambling LG240B Excluded Bingo permit for Trojan Takedown Club (by consent)
• Approved Minnesota Lawful Gambling LG220 Exempt Permit for Barnesville Baseball Club (by consent)
• Approved Minnesota Lawful Gambling LG220 Exempt Permit for Barnesville Rod and Gun (by consent)
• Approved 2026 Public Health Purchase of Service, Grants, Agreements, and MOUs (by consent)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will review requests for new staffing positions and equipment purchases. The board is deciding on the creation of a law enforcement cadet program and the acquisition of electronic health records for the detoxification program.

• Request to create a Cadet Program for the Clay County Sheriff's Office
• Request to purchase an Electronic Health Record Program for the Withdrawal Management/Detoxification Program
• Request to enter into a Joint Powers Agreement for the Minnesota Anti-Herion Task Force Program
• Request to purchase survey equipment
• Request to refill an Adult Mental Health Targeted Case Manager position

The Clay County Board approved $2,967,694 in vendor payments and a $124,023.63 purchase of survey equipment. It also filled an Adult Rule 79 case manager position, created a Sheriff's Office Cadet Program, and entered a Joint Powers Agreement for the Minnesota Anti‑Heroin Task Force. Additional approvals included re‑hiring a Juvenile Counselor, purchasing an electronic health record system for the detox facility, and moving a shared administrative assistant to a full‑time detox role.

• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $2,967,694 (unanimously)
• Approved purchase of survey equipment from Frontier Precision for $124,023.63 (unanimously)
• Approved filling the Adult Rule 79 Case Manager position (unanimously)
• Approved creation of the Clay County Sheriff's Office Cadet Program, Grade 1 Step 1 pay (unanimously)
• Approved entering a Joint Powers Agreement for the Minnesota Anti‑Heroin Task Force (unanimously)
• Approved re‑hiring the open Juvenile Counselor position in the Non‑Secure Unit (unanimously)
• Approved purchase of the Ritten electronic health record program for the Withdrawal Management/Detox Facility using Opioid Settlement Funds (unanimously)
• Approved moving the shared Administrative Assistant to a full‑time Detox position (unanimously)

Clay-Becker Partnership4Health Community Health Board

Board of Commissioners

The board will first consider routine consent‑agenda items, including the year‑end transfer, payment of bills and approval of the December 30, 2025 minutes. They will hear the 2025 Metro Profile Report and then vote on several contract vouchers, notably the food‑service contract for the West Central Regional Juvenile Center, Correctional Facility and Withdrawal Management/Detox Facility. Additional items include approval of a roof contract for a joint facility, a snowmobile‑trail permit, and other service‑area purchase contracts.

• Request approval to award the food service contract for the West Central Regional Juvenile Center, Correctional Facility, and Withdrawal Management/Detox Facility
• Request approval of the final contract voucher for the Joint Facility Roof
• Request approval of MNDOT Limited Use Permit & Resolution 2026-05 for Snowmobile Trail
• Request approval of final contract vouchers for SP 014-614-001 and SAP 014-598-079, SAP 014-599-105, SAP 014-599-114
• Request approval to advertise for SAP 014-609-010

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will elect a Chair and Vice-Chair for 2026 and approve the year's meeting schedule and committee assignments. The meeting includes a State of the County Address and a closed session regarding labor negotiations.

• Election of the 2026 Chair and Vice-Chair
• Bid opening for food services at West Central Regional Juvenile Center, Correctional Facility, and Withdrawal Management/Detox Facility
• Approval of Resolutions 2026-01 through 2026-04 for newspaper designations
• Approval of 2026 AMC Appointments and Voting Delegates
• Closed session for labor negotiations