Dodge County public meetings in 2024

Public Works Committee - Committee Meeting

The Public Works Committee will consider final payments for State Projects SP 020-609-032, SP 020-599-123, and SP 020-615-021. It will also discuss purchasing a hydro seeder. These items are routine financial and procurement actions.

• Final payment for State Project SP 020-609-032
• Final payment for State Project SP 020-599-123
• Final payment for State Project SP 020-615-021
• Purchase of a hydro seeder

Fairview Care Center Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Fairview Care Center Board will review and approve meeting minutes, personnel changes, and outstanding bills. New business includes approving a scheduling app, a supply‑room plug‑in, bathroom flooring, and the FY 2025 operating budget. The board will also consider a 3% cost‑of‑living adjustment (information only).

• Approval of "When I Work" schedule app (no dollar amount listed)
• Approval of plug‑in for supply room and blanket warmer (no dollar amount listed)
• Approval of flooring for two bathrooms (no dollar amount listed)
• Review and approval of FY 2025 budget (no dollar amount listed)
• Review and approval of bills, including Kitchen Makeup Air $128,800.00 and Davis Mechanical Systems $30,300.00

The board approved the 2025 proposed budget, a $204,516.03 bill payment, and several operational items including a new scheduling app (OnShift) and facility repairs. They also approved personnel actions and financials, but tabled the approval of previous meeting minutes until January.

• Approved December bills totaling $204,516.03
• Approved November financials
• Approved 2025 proposed budget
• Approved purchase of OnShift scheduling app at $825/quarterly
• Approved $600 outlet bid through Hicks for blanket warmers
• Approved Hiller Flooring bid of $1,658.00 to replace bathroom floor
• Approved personnel actions
• Tabled approval of previous minutes until January meeting

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Administration Committee will hold a Committee of the Whole meeting and review upcoming Board of Commissioners business. It will consider commissioner warrants and discuss personnel agenda items for December 23, 2024. No specific decisions are detailed in the agenda.

• Committee of the Whole meeting – Dec 12, 2024 at 4:10 PM
• Board of Commissioners regular meeting – Dec 12, 2024 at 5:00 PM
• Review of commissioner warrants
• Personnel agenda for Dec 23 2024

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners will adopt Ordinance #24-01. They will also consider a request for audio‑visual funding for the courts and a child‑care provider financial assistance request. Additional items include final payment of 2024 bills, fund approvals, and a fee schedule discussion.

• Adoption and enactment of Dodge County Ordinance #24-01
• Request for audio‑visual funding for courts
• Child care provider financial assistance request
• Final payment of bills for 2024
• Fee schedule discussion

The board unanimously adopted Ordinance #24-01 regulating cannabis businesses, effective December 31, 2024, superseding the interim ordinance. It also approved $65,888.61 for courtroom audio/visual upgrades (4-1), allocated up to $5,000 for child care provider training, and set 2025 elected salaries.

• Adopted Ordinance #24-01 regulating cannabis businesses (unanimous)
• Approved $65,888.61 for courtroom audio/visual upgrades (4-1)
• Allocated up to $5,000 for child care provider training 2025-2026 (unanimous)
• Approved personnel actions including step increases and new hire authorization (unanimous)
• Authorized year-end bill payments with Finance Director review (unanimous)
• Reapproved committed fund accounts for 2025 (unanimous)
• Supported special assessment deferral recording requirement for cities (unanimous)
• Set 2025 elected salaries: Sheriff $135,293, Attorney $66,361, Board $27,683, Chair $28,183, per diem $80 (unanimous)

Public Health Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Health Committee meeting on Dec 23 2024 will begin with a public health update presented by Amy Evans, the Public Health Director. No other agenda items are listed, and no decisions or actions are scheduled.

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Committee of the Whole is convening in Mantorville to discuss a Midway update and discussion with the Facilities & Fleet Manager and IT Director. The meeting is scheduled to adjourn at 5:00 PM.

• Discussion of Midway update with Facilities & Fleet Manager and IT Director
• Meeting to convene Committee of the Whole in Conference Room B, Government Services Building

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners met in Committee of the Whole to discuss updates on The Midway facility, including tables and chairs, audio/visual equipment, security, and internet. No formal decisions were made; the board directed staff to explore options and report back. The meeting was informational only.

• No formal votes taken; discussion only on Midway improvements
• Staff to explore audio/visual options and report back
• Facilities manager to obtain tables and chairs for 50-60 people
• Discussed potential call-back fees for renters, no decision

Public Health Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Health Committee will meet to discuss a cooperative agreement amendment for the Third Judicial District. The committee will also consider the approval of 2025 tobacco retailer licenses.

• Third Judicial District Cooperative Agreement Amendment (FY25)
• Approval of 2025 Tobacco Retailer Licenses

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Administration Committee will consider several items, including commissioner warrants and a personnel agenda. It will vote on the reappointment of Rhonda Toquam to the SEMMCHRA Board. The committee will also reappoint Extension Committee member Patrick Buckwalter.

• Commissioner warrants
• Personnel agenda for 12/12/24
• Reappointment of Rhonda Toquam to the SEMMCHRA Board
• Reappointment of Extension Committee member Patrick Buckwalter

Public Works Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Works Committee will review the final payment for SAP 020-605-030. The committee will also discuss an alternative method for disseminating bids and requests. County Engineer Guy Kohlnhofer will present these items.

• Final payment for SAP 020-605-030
• Alternative method to disseminate bids and requests

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will hear an annual update on the county court system from Judge Debra A. Groehler. It will also consider the salary levels for elected officials for the 2025 fiscal year, presented by County Administrator Jim Elmquist. No other items are on the agenda.

• Annual Court Update to the County Board – presented by Judge Debra A. Groehler
• Elected Official Salary Consideration for 2025 – presented by County Administrator Jim Elmquist

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners discussed 2025 salaries for elected officials. The board reached consensus on a 9% increase for the County Attorney, a 6% increase for the Sheriff plus conversion of the vehicle allowance to salary, and a 6% increase for the County Board. No formal resolution was adopted; the matter will be brought forward at the next meeting.

• Consensus to set County Attorney 2025 salary increase at 9%
• Consensus to convert Sheriff's vehicle allowance to salary
• Consensus to set Sheriff's 2025 salary increase at 6%
• Consensus to set County Board 2025 salary increase at 6%

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Dodge County Board will convene to approve routine consent items, discuss a Hayfield Safe Routes to School grant, and hold a public hearing on the 2025 TNT budget. The meeting will also include a public hearing on a cannabis ordinance and the appointment of various board members.

• Public hearing on 2025 TNT Budget
• Public hearing on ZA#24-07 Cannabis Ordinance
• Reappointment of Rhonda Toquam to SEMMCHRA Board
• Reappointment of Extension Committee Member Patrick Buckwalter
• Request to Approve 2025 Tobacco Retailer Licenses

The board unanimously adopted the 2025 final budget totaling $36,602,407 with a net tax levy of $17,941,264, a 3.5% increase over 2024. They also approved a resolution to sponsor Hayfield's Safe Routes to School grant application, adopted a cannabis zoning ordinance amendment, and accepted delegation of cannabis regulation from 12 townships. Several appointments and personnel actions were approved.

• Adopted 2025 budget of $36,602,407 with net levy $17,941,264 (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to sponsor Hayfield SRTS grant application (unanimous)
• Adopted cannabis zoning ordinance amendment ZA #24-07 (unanimous)
• Accepted delegation of cannabis regulation from 12 townships (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for Jan 14, 2025 on tobacco ordinance amendment (unanimous)
• Reappointed Feedlot Advisory Board, Planning Commission, and Board of Adjustment members (unanimous)
• Approved out-of-state travel for Finance Director to San Jose, CA (unanimous)
• Approved bills totaling $826,220.20 (unanimous)

Planning Commission - Regular Meeting

The Dodge County Planning Commission will approve the agenda and minutes from its September 4, 2024 meeting. The commission will discuss Zoning Amendment ZA#24-07, which pertains to a Cannabis Ordinance. Public hearing participation options, including in‑person, Zoom, and written comments, are provided for residents.

• Approval of agenda and minutes from the Sep 4, 2024 meeting
• Consideration of Zoning Amendment ZA#24-07 Cannabis Ordinance
• Public hearing notice for the Dec 4, 2024 meeting
• In‑person hearing at 721 Main St N., Mantorville, Conference Room B
• Zoom participation link and written comment instructions

The Dodge County Planning Commission held a public hearing and unanimously recommended approval of Zoning Amendment ZA#24-07, which amends Chapters 4, 8, 12, 13, and 16 of the County Zoning Ordinance to regulate cannabis businesses. The recommendation includes a staff correction to subsection 16.52.3, B, II, changing the operating plan submission timing from 'prior to utilization of the site' to 'with the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) application.' The item will go to the County Board on December 12, 2024. No public comments were received during the hearing.

• Approved agenda and minutes from Sep 4, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved public hearing notice for Dec 4, 2024 (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for ZA#24-07 Cannabis Ordinance (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of ZA#24-07 with staff correction to 16.52.3 (unanimous)

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Administration Committee will consider the commissioner warrants presented by the Taxpayer Services Director. The committee will also discuss a phone reimbursement request submitted by Kevin Venenga. Additional agenda items include a personnel agenda and a report on the NACO Legislative Conference.

• Review of commissioner warrants
• Discussion of phone reimbursement request for Kevin Venenga
• Personnel agenda for November 26, 2024
• Report on NACO Legislative Conference with Rod Peterson

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on a proposed ordinance to regulate cannabis businesses at 6:00 PM. Other agenda items include routine consent items, a resolution authorizing interim financial consultation for the Minnesota Prairie County Alliance, and a request to accept a veteran services donation. The meeting also features updates from the County Administrator, legal counsel, and public health officials.

• Consent agenda items (routine, non‑controversial)
• Resolution authorizing interim financial consultation for Minnesota Prairie County Alliance
• SEMMCHRA Final Levy Request 2025
• Request to accept veteran services donation
• Public hearing for ordinance to regulate cannabis business

The board approved the final 2025 special benefit tax levy of $55,540 for the Southeastern Minnesota Multi-County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (SEMMCHRA), which will cost about $3.34 for a $300,000 home. They also approved a resolution to provide free interim financial consultation to MNPrairie through January 31, 2025, and accepted a $61 donation for Veterans Services. The board approved bills totaling $251,460.09 and several personnel actions, including re-hiring the Facilities and Fleet Manager as full-time.

• Approved SEMMCHRA final 2025 levy of $55,540 (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to provide free interim financial consultation to MNPrairie (4-1)
• Accepted $61 donation from St. John Baptist De La Salle Catholic Church for Veterans Services (unanimous)
• Approved bills totaling $251,460.09 (unanimous)
• Approved personnel actions including re-hire of Facilities and Fleet Manager as 1.0 FTE (unanimous)
• Approved out-of-state travel for Commissioner Peterson to NACo Legislative Conference (unanimous)

Fairview Care Center Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Fairview Care Center Board will approve the October meeting minutes and a series of personnel changes. It will review and approve September bills totaling $186,038.09 and the October financial statements. The board will also consider new business items, including a $1,795 purchase of CPR equipment, bed extender and layaway approvals, and a holiday rule amendment.

• Approve September bills for $186,038.09
• Approve purchase of CPR equipment for $1,795
• Approve bed extender and bed layaway requests
• Approve new holiday rule
• Approve personnel changes and October financials

The Fairview Care Center Board of Commissioners met on November 26, 2024 and approved November bills totaling $212,598.23, October financials, donations, $3,224.08 in write-offs, and $40,202.94 in Case Mix write-offs. The board also approved an ECPN add-on rate of $15.91, the purchase of two bed extenders at $471.97 each, and the layaway of 9 facility beds. Administrator Kelly Ellis said the facility must implement a new 11 holiday rule required by law starting January 1 and will bring options to the board next month. The minutes also note the facility is increasing the private room rate from $22/day to $32/day.

• Approved the agenda as presented
• Approved minutes of the October 22, 2024 meeting
• Approved personnel actions
• Approved November bills totaling $212,598.23 (Early Bills $78,258.53; Regular Bills $134,339.70)
• Approved October financials
• Approved donations and memorials, including Social Hour Fund donations
• Approved write-offs of $3,224.08
• Approved Case Mix write-offs of $40,202.94

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Administration Committee will review the October 22, 2024, minutes from the Committee of the Whole and Regular Board meetings. The agenda includes the approval of Commissioner Warrants and the Personnel Agenda for November 12, 2024.

• Review minutes from Oct 22 Committee of the Whole meeting
• Review minutes from Oct 22 Regular Board meeting
• Review Commissioner Warrants
• Review Personnel Agenda 11/12/24

Public Health Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Health Committee will hear a health update from Amy Evans, the Public Health Director. No decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will hear a discussion on a proposed cannabis ordinance presented by the Public Health Director and Health Educator. The meeting will also include a discussion of the county's 2025 budget led by the County Administrator and Finance Director. No decisions are noted in the agenda; the items are for discussion only.

• Cannabis ordinance discussion (public health)
• 2025 budget discussion (county finance)

The Committee of the Whole discussed a draft cannabis ordinance, agreeing to limit temporary cannabis event hours to 5:00 p.m. The Board also reviewed the 2025 preliminary budget and agreed to adopt a 3.5% levy increase, reversing an earlier informal preference for 2.9%. No formal votes were recorded during this committee meeting.

• Agreed to limit temporary cannabis event end time to 5:00 p.m.
• Agreed to adopt 3.5% levy increase for 2025 budget
• Scheduled final budget hearing for December 12 at 6:00 p.m.
• Discussed adding full-time County Attorney position to budget

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss regulating cannabis businesses and decide on a bid for a transfer station building. The meeting also includes reviews of road revocations and the 911 Center joining a regional call handling system.

• Setting a public hearing for Ordinance 24-01 to regulate cannabis businesses
• Transfer station building bid decision
• Revocation of CR A and CR B to Concord, Kenyon, and Cherry Grove Townships
• Request for 911 Center to join the Regional Call Handling System
• Forfeiture sales of 3 parcels

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved resolutions revoking County Roads A and B (535th Street) in Concord, Kenyon, and Cherry Grove townships, effective December 1, 2024, and turned over 530th Street to become CR B. The board also awarded a $1,652,670 contract to A.B. Systems for the new transfer station building, set a public hearing for a cannabis ordinance, and approved several other administrative items.

• Revoked CR A (South side) and CR B (535th Street) to Concord Township (unanimous)
• Revoked CR A to Kenyon Township (unanimous)
• Revoked CR A to Cherry Grove Township (unanimous)
• Turned up 530th Street to become CR B (unanimous)
• Awarded transfer station building contract to A.B. Systems for $1,652,670 (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for cannabis ordinance on Nov 26, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Market Price for solid waste tax at $78.80/ton (unanimous)
• Approved 911 center joining regional call handling system at ~$30,390.19 plus $10,000 annual dues (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will meet to hear a report from the Public Health Director and Health Educator. The session is focused on the annual update from the Dodge County Opioid Task Force.

• Dodge County Opioid Task Force Annual Update

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners received the annual Opioid Task Force update from Public Health Director Amy Evans and Health Educator Emma Basness. The update covered settlement funds, 2024 projects, and upcoming activities, including Narcan storage boxes in schools. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational only.

• Received Opioid Task Force annual update (no vote)
• Discussed spending of Opioid Settlement Funds (no action)
• Noted Narcan storage boxes provided to four school districts (no action)

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Dodge County Board will consider a closed‑session discussion on a potential offer to acquire properties under Minnesota Statutes §13D.03 and §13D.05, subd. 3. Other agenda items include a draft Midway Use Permit and Rental Agreement, a report from the South Country Health Alliance, and updates from public health, broadband, and environmental services. The meeting also features routine consent items and commissioner reports.

• Closed session to discuss possible offer on properties (Stat. §13D.03; §13D.05, subd. 3)
• Midway Use Permit & Rental Agreement draft (20 minutes)
• South Country Health Alliance report (20 minutes)
• Intent to apply for Dodge County Family Services Collaborative Funding (5 minutes)
• Midco Fixed Wireless introduction (5 minutes)

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a $50,000 purchase of a vacant lot from the City of Kasson to be gifted to First Homes for affordable housing development. The board also approved a $15,000 contribution from the Local Housing Trust Fund and a $5,000 county contribution toward a county housing study, with a provision to reduce the county's share to $2,500 if a grant is received. Additionally, the board selected Option 2 for the C.S.A.H. 8 alignment improvement project and authorized the Environmental Services Director to sign a $200,000 state grant agreement.

• Approved $50,000 purchase of vacant lot from City of Kasson for affordable housing (unanimous)
• Approved $15,000 LHTF contribution and $5,000 county contribution for housing study (unanimous)
• Approved C.S.A.H. 8 alignment Option 2, staying on current alignment (unanimous)
• Approved bills totaling $344,092.19 (unanimous)
• Approved The Midway Use Permit and Rental Agreement (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution allowing Environmental Services Director to sign $200,000 grant agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Public Health application for $1,000 for baby bundles (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda and agenda (unanimous)

Fairview Care Center Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Fairview Care Center Board will review and approve bills totaling $186,038.09, personnel changes including new hires and wage increases, and the purchase of an instructor kit for CPR training. The meeting will also cover financial reports and a workforce update.

• Review and Approval of Bills ($186,038.09)
• Review and Approval of Personnel Changes
• Review and Approval of In House CPR Training and Purchase of Instructor Kit
• Review and Approval of Financials
• September Cash on Hand - Information Only

The Fairview Care Center Board approved the purchase of CPR training equipment for $1,795 to move CPR training in-house, a cost-saving measure. They also approved September bills totaling $186,038.09 and the September financials. Personnel actions were approved, including new hires for MDS Coordinator and Administrator. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely routine.

• Approved $1,795 CPR equipment purchase (motion carried)
• Approved September bills of $186,038.09 (motion carried)
• Approved September financials (motion carried)
• Approved personnel actions including new MDS Coordinator and Administrator (motion carried)
• Approved agenda as presented (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of September 24, 2024 (motion carried)

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Administration Committee will review the Commissioner Warrants item on the agenda. No other specific actions or proposals are listed. The meeting is otherwise procedural.

• Commissioner Warrants

Public Health Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Health Committee will meet on October 8, 2024, to review tobacco license fees and receive an update from Public Health Director Amy Evans.

• Review of Tobacco License Fees
• Public Health Update

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Administration Committee will meet to discuss personnel matters and commissioner warrants. The meeting also includes reviews of previous Committee of the Whole and Board of Commissioners meetings from September 24, 2024.

• Commissioner Warrants
• Personnel Agenda 10/8/24

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Dodge County Board will approve routine consent agenda items and hear updates from the legal, public health, and administration committees. A 20‑minute discussion on the Midway project is scheduled. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Consent agenda items (routine, non‑controversial)
• Tobacco license fee item
• Commissioner warrants
• The Midway discussion (20 minutes)
• Public health update (15 minutes)

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners approved the agenda, consent agenda, bills totaling $208,740.20, and a personnel agenda including two new hires and several step increases. The Board discussed rental rates, deposits, and rules for The Midway event space but took no formal vote, referring the matter back to committee for a use permit and rental agreement to be approved in late October. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned at 11:04 a.m.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes and tobacco license fees (unanimous)
• Approved bills totaling $208,740.20 from various funds (unanimous)
• Approved personnel actions: hire Kevin Venenga as Finance Director, hire Jacob Petersen as Veteran's Services Officer, change Duke Harbaugh to on-call, post Facilities and Fleet Manager vacancy, step increases for Tobey Hicks, Duane Archer, Juan Trejo, Justin Classon, Catherine Grondin, and separation of Stephen O'Brien (unanimous)
• No vote on legal update, committee reports, or Midway discussion

Fairview Care Center Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Directors will meet to approve August personnel changes, bills, and financial reports. The meeting includes department updates from the Business Office Manager and the Social Services Designee.

• Review and approval of August personnel changes
• Review and approval of bills
• Review and approval of August financials
• Budget and department update from Holly Beaver (Social Services Designee)
• Department update from Courtney Brink (Business Office Manager)

The Fairview Care Center Board approved August bills totaling $186,038.09 and August financials. The board also approved bids to fix a leaking kitchen water storage tank and to perform tuckpointing on exterior wet areas, while deferring drainage work until spring. Personnel actions and hiring bonus policy changes were approved.

• Approved amended agenda
• Approved August 27, 2024 minutes
• Approved personnel actions and hiring bonus policy change
• Approved August bills totaling $186,038.09
• Approved August financials
• Approved Rochester Plumbing and Heating bid for hot water storage tank repair
• Approved tuckpointing for exterior wet areas; deferred drainage work

Public Health Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Health Committee will receive a general update from the Public Health Director. The committee will also discuss the Third Judicial District Cooperative Agreement for fiscal year 2025.

• Public Health update from Director Amy Evans
• Third Judicial District Cooperative Agreement (FY2025)

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Administration Committee will review the list of commissioner warrants. It will also consider personnel matters for the county. The agenda notes upcoming Committee of the Whole and Board of Commissioners meetings scheduled for September 10, 2024.

• Review of commissioner warrants
• Personnel agenda for September 24, 2024
• Reference to Committee of the Whole meeting on Sep 10, 2024
• Reference to Board of Commissioners regular meeting on Sep 10, 2024

Public Safety Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Safety Committee is meeting to hear from Sergeant Scott Prins regarding the 2025 Towards Zero Deaths Grant.

• Discussion of 2025 Towards Zero Deaths Grant

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the 2025 preliminary budget certification and insurance recommendations for 2025. The meeting also includes reviews of public health and safety grants.

• 2025 Preliminary Budget Certification
• Insurance Committee Recommendation for 2025
• FY25 TZD Safe Roads Grant Award approval request
• Third Judicial District Cooperative Agreement (FY2025)
• 2025 Towards Zero Deaths Grant

The board unanimously certified the 2025 preliminary budget of $36,602,407 and tax levy of $17,941,264, a 3.5% increase over 2024. They also approved switching health insurance carriers to Better Health Collective with BC/BS for 2025, and authorized several grants and personnel actions.

• Certified 2025 preliminary budget at $36,602,407 and levy at $17,941,264 (unanimous)
• Approved changing 2025 health insurance carrier to Better Health Collective with BC/BS (unanimous)
• Approved personnel actions including step increases and band/grade changes (unanimous)
• Approved bills totaling $283,984.79 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution accepting FY25 TZD Safe Roads Grant (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution for 2025 Towards Zero Deaths grant agreement (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will discuss the name of the fairgrounds building and any associated fee. The meeting is scheduled for September 24, 2024 at 4:40 PM in Conference Room B, Government Services Building, Mantorville, MN. No other agenda items are listed.

• Fairgrounds building name and fee discussion

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners, meeting as Committee of the Whole, reached consensus on several details for the new fairgrounds event building: naming it The Midway with a blue circular logo, setting a $3,000 weekend rental fee and a $750 daily fee, allowing alcohol with a licensed caterer and gambling with a permit, and permitting smoking in a designated outdoor area. No formal votes were taken; decisions were by consensus. The board did not decide on non-profit discounts, table/chair purchases, or other rules, and will continue discussions at a future meeting.

• Consensus to name new event building The Midway with blue circular logo
• Consensus on $3,000 weekend rental fee (Fri afternoon–Sun morning)
• Consensus on $750 daily rental fee
• Consensus to allow alcohol if served by licensed caterer
• Consensus to allow gambling with required permit
• Consensus to allow smoking in designated outdoor area
• No decision on non-profit rental discount
• No decision on purchasing tables/chairs; Fair Board's may be rented

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Administration Committee will review minutes and warrants from the August 27, 2024, meetings of the Committee of the Whole and the Board of Commissioners. The agenda also includes a personnel agenda for September 10, 2024.

• Review minutes from Committee of the Whole meeting (Aug 27, 2024)
• Review minutes from Board of Commissioners regular meeting (Aug 27, 2024)
• Review Commissioner Warrants
• Personnel Agenda for September 10, 2024

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will hear three budget presentations: Facilities & Fleet Manager Duke Harbaugh, Information Technology Director Tobey Hicks, and Sheriff Scott Rose. Each presenter will outline their department's financial plans. The meeting will adjourn after the presentations.

• Budget presentation by Facilities & Fleet Manager Duke Harbaugh
• Budget presentation by IT Director Tobey Hicks
• Budget presentation by Sheriff Scott Rose

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners held a Committee of the Whole meeting to review proposed 2025 budgets for Facilities & Fleet, Information Technology, and the Sheriff's Office. No formal votes were taken; the presentations were informational only. The board discussed budget increases, IT capital items, and sheriff's office contracts and equipment replacements.

• Reviewed 2025 Facilities & Fleet budget with increases for utilities, maintenance, and new building costs
• Reviewed 2025 IT budget including $30,000 for server and firewall replacements
• Discussed proposed Central Services Security Fund reserve account with $22,300 annual budget
• Reviewed 2025 Sheriff's Office budget including vehicle replacements and lease fees
• Discussed radio replacements at $45,000 total investment
• Discussed taser replacements at $6,500 total investment
• Reviewed city and school contracts with 3% rate increases
• Discussed Sheriff's Office wellness program budget of $15,000

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners will consider routine consent items, commissioner warrants, and several zoning matters. They will review an Air Quality Easement Declaration, a legal update, and the expiration and reappointment of the County Assessor. The agenda includes a discussion of the 2025 County budget and reports from each commissioner.

• 2025 Budget Discussion (item 6.3)
• Expiration and reappointment of Dodge County Assessor (item 6.2)
• Air Quality Easement Declaration (item 5.1)
• Floodplain Amendment (ZA #24-05) (item 3.3)
• IUP #24-07 Ewing (item 3.1)

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners approved a floodplain zoning amendment to comply with FEMA and state standards, adopted several personnel actions, and reappointed the County Assessor. The board also approved an interim use permit, a zoning amendment, and moved the December 10 meeting to December 12.

• Adopted floodplain ordinance amendment (Resolution #2024-35) unanimously
• Approved Interim Use Permit #24-07 Ewing unanimously
• Approved Zoning Amendment #24-06 Con-Tech (rezone to Industrial) unanimously
• Approved personnel actions including step increases and hires (3-1)
• Authorized signing of Air Quality Easement Declaration for parcel 15.028.0503 unanimously
• Moved December 10, 2024 board meeting to December 12, 2024 unanimously
• Reappointed Ryan DeCook as County Assessor for 4 years unanimously
• Approved bills totaling $305,282.16 unanimously

Planning Commission - Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will meet to discuss specific zoning amendments and land use permits. The agenda includes a public hearing to review these requests.

• IUP #24-07 Ewing
• ZA #24-06 Con-Tech zoning amendment
• ZA #24-05 Floodplain Amendment

The Dodge County Planning Commission held public hearings and unanimously recommended approval of an interim use permit for a dwelling on less than 53 acres, a zoning amendment to rezone agricultural land to industrial for Con-Tech, and a floodplain zoning amendment to comply with FEMA regulations. All recommendations will go to the County Board on September 10, 2024.

• Recommended approval of IUP #24-07 for a dwelling on ~28.35 acres in Mantorville Township (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of ZA #24-06 to rezone agricultural land to industrial in Ashland Township (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of ZA #24-05 floodplain ordinance amendments to Chapters 4, 5, 15, 16, 17, 18 (unanimous)
• Approved August 7, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved public hearing notice for September 4, 2024 meeting (unanimous)

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Administration Committee will review commissioner warrants and a request for a gambling permit to hold a 50/50 raffle for WGA 4 Kids at the Big Iron Truck Show. The meeting will also address personnel agenda items. No other agenda items are listed.

• Commissioner warrants
• Gambling permit request for WGA 4 Kids 50/50 raffle at the Big Iron Truck Show
• Personnel agenda items

Public Health Committee - Committee Meeting

The Public Health Committee will hear a public health update from Director Amy Evans. The update includes notice of a TZD Safe Roads Grant, though the award amount has not yet been disclosed, and the completion of a July public health nuisance abatement within the expected timeline. No decisions are listed; the committee is receiving information only.

• Notice received of TZD Safe Roads Grant (award amount not identified)
• July public health nuisance abated on schedule

Public Works Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Works Committee will consider three actions: approving a $119 cash donation for the 2024 Sober Fest event, awarding the bridge removal contract (SAP 020-599-123) to Alcon Excavating for $16,912, and adopting a resolution to accept a $222,483.25 Minnesota State Transportation Fund grant for the construction of Bridge No. 20J55 on C.S.A.H. 9. The committee will also authorize the County Engineer to approve change orders up to 10% of the awarded contract.

• Accept $119 anonymous cash donation for Dodge’s Alternative to Addiction Sober Fest 2024
• Award SAP 020-599-123 contract to Alcon Excavating for $16,912 to remove Bridge No. L2480 in Milton Township
• Approve resolution to accept State Transportation Fund Local Bridge Replacement Program grant of $222,483.25 for Bridge No. 20J55 on C.S.A.H. 9
• Authorize County Engineer to approve change orders and supplemental agreements up to 10% of the $16,912 contract
• Construction for Bridge No. L2480 removal scheduled to begin Sep 3 2024 and finish Oct 18 2024

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The committee will receive 2025 budget presentations from Building Operations, Highway, and Public Health. The Public Health Director is proposing a budget that includes a request for an additional 1.0 FTE nurse to manage caseload capacity.

• 2025 Proposed Budget presentations for Building Operations, Highway, and Public Health
• Public Health request for 1.0 FTE nurse with a projected tax levy impact of $14,410
• Highway 2025 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) forms
• Public Health report on funding changes including Towards Zero Deaths Safe Roads grant and cannabis education funding

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners met in Committee of the Whole on August 27, 2024, to discuss proposed 2025 budgets for the Highway and Public Health departments. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational only. The Highway Engineer presented budget changes largely due to inflation, including a request to increase capital equipment funding by $99,705. The Public Health Director discussed budget impacts from funding changes and a request for an additional 1.0 FTE nurse, with a tax levy impact of $14,410.

• No formal decisions made; meeting was informational only
• Highway budget discussed, including $99,705 capital equipment increase request
• Public Health budget discussed, including 1.0 FTE nurse request with $14,410 levy impact

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Dodge County Board will hold a public hearing on Ordinance #98-01 (Tobacco) and then vote on amendments to that ordinance. A discussion on cannabis policy will follow. The board will also review the 2025 budget and consider a resolution for the State Transportation Fund Local Bridge Replacement Program grant terms.

• Public Hearing for Ordinance #98-01 (Tobacco) – 25 minutes
• Approval of Amendments to Ordinance #98-01 – 5 minutes
• Cannabis Discussion – 20 minutes
• 2025 Budget Discussion – 10 minutes
• Resolution for Agreement to State Transportation Fund Local Bridge Replacement Program Grant Terms (SAP 020-609-038) – 5 minutes

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners approved amendments to tobacco ordinance #98-01, a lease agreement for county property in Mantorville, and a series of personnel actions including step increases and new hires. They also awarded a bridge removal contract and accepted a donation for the Drug Court Sober Fest. The board discussed but did not vote on a future cannabis ordinance, indicating they want to be as restrictive as possible until public feedback.

• Approved amendments to tobacco ordinance #98-01 (unanimous)
• Authorized lease agreement with Sakhann Douk and Sopheak Phy for county property in Mantorville (unanimous)
• Approved personnel actions including step increases and hiring authorization (unanimous)
• Approved bills totaling $338,730.64 (unanimous)
• Accepted $119.00 donation for Drug Court Sober Fest via resolution #2024-32 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution #2024-33 accepting State Transportation Fund grant for bridge replacement (unanimous)
• Awarded bridge removal contract to Alcon Excavating for $16,912.00 (unanimous)
• Approved gambling permit for WGA 4 Kids 50/50 raffle (unanimous)

Fairview Care Center Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Directors will review July personnel changes and financial reports. The body is also seeking approval for a kitchen roof project and discussing flooring moisture issues.

• Approval for A/C/ Kitchen Roof
• Discussion on moisture and flooring updates
• Review and approval of July personnel changes
• Review and approval of July financials and bills
• Budget and department updates from HR Coordinator and Environmental Services Director

The Fairview Care Center Board approved Kelly Ellis as the permanent administrator starting 9/30/2024, approved July bills of $164,484.54, and approved a $48,200 contract for DMS to service the kitchen rooftop A/C unit. The board also approved personnel actions and July financials, and discussed ongoing issues including a state audit, missing emergency binder, and flooring moisture problems.

• Approved Kelly Ellis as permanent administrator starting 9/30/2024
• Approved July bills totaling $164,484.54
• Approved July financials
• Approved personnel actions for July
• Approved $48,200 contract with DMS for kitchen rooftop A/C unit service
• Approved agenda as submitted
• Approved minutes of July 23, 2024

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Administration Committee will review the public health department's proposed revisions to the county tobacco ordinance, including age and training requirements for clerks. The committee will also receive updates on the insurance consulting contract with Intellicents and the scheduling of public hearings for County Road A turnback and County Road B realignment.

• Proposed amendment to tobacco ordinance to set minimum clerk age at 18 and require training for ages 18‑20
• Discussion of Intellicents insurance consulting fee of $1,500 per month ($18,000 annually)
• Scheduling public hearings for County Road A turnback and County Road B realignment in Concord, Cherry Grove, and Kenyon townships
• Commissioner warrants
• Personnel agenda items

Public Works Committee - Committee Meeting

The Public Works Committee is reviewing a request to award a construction contract for Bridge No. 20J55 and approach grading on C.S.A.H. 9 (210th Ave). The Highway Department recommends the lowest bidder for the project.

• Proposed contract award to Fitzgerald Excavating for $559,640.00
• Construction of Bridge No. 20J55 and Approach Grading on C.S.A.H. 9 (210th Ave)

Public Safety Committee - Committee Meeting

The Public Safety Committee will consider a resolution to accept a $500 donation from the Big Iron Classic Truck Show to fund the Dodge County Sheriff's Office Chaplain and Peer Support programs.

• Accept $500 donation from Big Iron Classic Truck Show for Chaplain Program
• Resolution to accept donation under Minnesota Statute 465.03
• Donation to support Sheriff's Office peer support efforts

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The committee is meeting to discuss the 2025 budget presentations for Environmental Services and the Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD). A key focus is the Environmental Services Capital Replacement Fund, which requires a higher contribution to rebuild balances after 2024 overages.

• Proposed 2025 contribution of $270,000 to the Environmental Services Capital Replacement Fund
• Five-year capital plan including a $300,000 replacement for a 24 Western Star & 2023 MAC
• Proposed $209,000 for a hook-truck replacement with trade-in
• Report of financial losses at the Dodge County Transfer Station regarding recycling and compost
• Proposed 2025 budget for Soil & Water Conservation District (Dept 002) of $964,212

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners met in Committee of the Whole and discussed the 2025 Environmental Services budget, noting a $270,000 contribution to the Capital Replacement Fund, and heard a request from the Soil and Water Conservation District for a $150,000 appropriation. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational only.

• Discussed 2025 Environmental Services budget, including $270,000 Capital Replacement Fund contribution
• Heard SWCD request for $150,000 appropriation for 2025 operations
• No formal votes or approvals taken

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the 2025 budget and a new dispatch and records management system. The agenda includes reviews of land use permits, software agreements for property taxes, and a demo of an incident command trailer.

• 2025 Budget Discussion
• New Dispatch/Records Mgt System
• Public hearing set for August 27 regarding Public Health Tobacco Ordinance #98-01
• Award for SAP 020-609-038
• MCCC Tyler Tax Participation Agreement and pricing quote

The Dodge County Board approved several major purchases, including a new Pro Phoenix dispatch/records management system for $644,289.81, a Tyler Technologies tax software agreement for $250,880, and a $559,640 bridge construction contract with Fitzgerald Excavating. The board also adopted a solid waste management plan and a zoning amendment for septic systems, and approved personnel actions and bills totaling $589,831.09.

• Approved $644,289.81 Pro Phoenix dispatch/records system (unanimous)
• Approved $250,880 Tyler Technologies tax software agreement (unanimous)
• Awarded $559,640 bridge contract to Fitzgerald Excavating (unanimous)
• Adopted Solid Waste Management Plan 2024-2033 (unanimous)
• Adopted Chapter 21 septic system amendment (3-2)
• Approved $589,831.09 in bills (unanimous)
• Approved personnel actions including step increases and new hire (unanimous)
• Accepted $500 donation from Big Iron Classic Truck Show (unanimous)

Planning Commission - Regular Meeting

The Dodge County Planning Commission will meet to discuss specific land use permits and a zoning amendment. The meeting includes public hearings for these items.

• IUP #24-05 Klejeski
• IUP #24-06 Burbank
• ZA# 24-04 Chapter 21 zoning amendment

The Dodge County Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of two Interim Use Permits (IUP #24-05 Klejeski and IUP #24-06 Burbank) to allow dwellings on less than 53 acres in agricultural districts, and a zoning amendment (ZA #24-04) to Chapter 21 to align septic system compliance with state rules. All recommendations will go to the County Board on August 13, 2024. No public comments were made on any item.

• Recommended approval of IUP #24-05 Klejeski for a dwelling on ~8.22 acres in Claremont Township (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of IUP #24-06 Burbank for a dwelling on ~9.24 acres in Canisteo Township (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of ZA #24-04 to amend Chapter 21, section 21.13 to comply with Minnesota Rules 7080-7083 (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda and minutes from June 5, 2024 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments - Regular Meeting

The Dodge County Board of Adjustments will convene to approve the agenda and the minutes from its April 17, 2024 meeting. The board will discuss and decide on Variance V #24-04 submitted by Severson. The meeting will also include any other business before adjournment.

• Approve agenda and minutes from the Apr 17, 2024 meeting
• Consider Variance V #24-04 submitted by Severson
• Public hearing participation options: in‑person, Zoom, or written comments

The Dodge County Board of Adjustments unanimously approved variance #24-04, allowing Jeffrey Stevenson to expand a nonconforming principal structure on a 10-acre parcel in Wasioja Township. The variance grants relief from Chapter 6, Section 6.4.1, items B and D of the Zoning Ordinance, with the condition that a zoning permit be obtained before construction. The meeting was brief, with no other substantive decisions.

• Approved variance #24-04 for expansion of nonconforming structure (3-0)
• Accepted April 17, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved public hearing notice for August 1, 2024 meeting (unanimous)

Fairview Care Center Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Directors will meet to review June personnel changes, financial reports, and cash on hand. The meeting includes budget and department updates from the Dietary Manager, Maintenance Director, and Director of Nursing.

• Review and approval of June personnel changes
• Review and approval of June financials and bills
• Budget and department updates from Dietary, Maintenance, and Nursing
• Acknowledgement of Interim Administrator Kelly Ellis, effective 7/1/2024

The board approved the June bills totaling $212,949.77 and the June financials, noting the facility was in the black for the month. Personnel actions for June were also approved. The board reviewed workforce updates, cash on hand, and a budget lookback showing high expenses in early 2024. No major policy decisions were made; most items were routine approvals and informational updates.

• Approved agenda as submitted
• Approved minutes of June 25, 2024
• Approved June personnel actions
• Approved June bills in the amount of $212,949.77
• Approved June financials

Public Health Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Health Committee will meet to receive a public health update from Director Amy Evans.

• Public Health Update provided by Director Amy Evans

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will review agreements for tax and computer services and discuss the replacement of a Sheriff server. The meeting includes a proposal to set a hearing for the turnback of CR A and CR B.

• Setting a hearing for CR A and CR B turnback
• MCCC Tyler Tax Participation Agreement and pricing quote
• Professional Services Agreement between TriMin Systems Inc. and Minnesota Counties Computer Coop
• Sheriff server replacement
• SEMMCHRA Preliminary Levy Request 2025

The board approved a $325,000 purchase of two tax parcels from Schuette Enterprises, authorized a broker to negotiate 2025 insurance premiums, and set public hearing dates for road turnbacks. It also approved bills totaling $1.84 million and a $25,363.50 server replacement for the Sheriff's Office.

• Approved $325,000 land purchase from Schuette Enterprises (unanimous)
• Authorized broker/consultant Intellicents to negotiate 2025 insurance premiums (4-1)
• Set public hearing dates for CR A turnback and CR B realignment (unanimous)
• Approved bills totaling $1,841,667.30 (unanimous)
• Approved $25,363.50 Sheriff's server replacement (unanimous)
• Approved SEMMCHRA preliminary levy of $55,540 for 2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted $1,000 donation for Sheriff's Office equipment (unanimous)
• Approved personnel actions including step increase and FTE change (unanimous)

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Administration Committee will consider the personnel agenda presented by the County Administrator. The committee will also review and act on commissioner warrants. These items are routine agenda points for the July 23 meeting.

• Review of personnel agenda
• Consideration of commissioner warrants

Public Safety Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Safety Committee will consider a donation intended to purchase equipment for the Dodge County Sheriff's Office. The discussion will be led by Operations Captain Jeff Espinosa at 4:10 PM. No further details such as equipment type or donation amount are provided in the agenda.

• Donation to purchase equipment for the Dodge County Sheriff's Office (DCSO)

Public Works Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Works Committee is meeting to discuss engineering and infrastructure items. The primary agenda item is the final payment for three bituminous projects from 2022.

• Final payment for 2022 Bituminous Projects SAP 020-603-016, SAP 020-605-029, and SAP 020-609-036

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Committee of the Whole will meet to hear a presentation and engage in discussion regarding a tobacco ordinance. The session is led by the Public Health Director and a Health Educator.

• Tobacco Ordinance presentation and discussion

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners discussed proposed changes to tobacco ordinance #98-01, including minimum clerk age, license denial criteria, and hearing procedures. The Board reached consensus that employees selling tobacco must be at least 18 years old, and supported adding training requirements for 18-20 year olds and for clerks 21+ who fail compliance checks. No formal vote was taken; final recommendations will be presented at a public hearing on August 27, 2024.

• Consensus that tobacco sellers must be at least 18 years old
• Board agreed with license denial provisions C, F, and G
• Suggested training for 18-20 year olds and for clerks 21+ who fail compliance checks
• Public hearing set for August 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. for final ordinance changes

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will review previous meeting minutes and commissioner warrants. The agenda also includes a personnel report from the County Administrator.

• Review of June 25, 2024, Committee of the Whole meeting
• Review of June 25, 2024, Board of Commissioners regular meeting
• Commissioner Warrants review
• Personnel Agenda

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding the Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan and Bridge Priority List. The meeting also includes a closed session to discuss possible offers on properties.

• Public Hearing for Adoption of Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and Bridge Priority List
• Appointment of Commissioner Rod Peterson to a 5-year term to SEMMCHRA
• Closed Session to discuss possible offer on properties

The Board adopted a five-year Capital Improvement Plan and Bridge Priority list and approved an Environmental Assessment Worksheet for the Con-Tech Manufacturing expansion. The Board also decided to use the University of Minnesota model to hire an Extension Administrative Assistant at .90 FTE.

• Approved five-year Capital Improvement Plan and Bridge Priority list (Unanimous)
• Approved University of Minnesota model to hire Extension support staff at .90 FTE (Unanimous)
• Approved Con-Tech EAW without the need for an Environmental Impact Statement (Unanimous)
• Approved bills totaling $235,027.10 (Unanimous)
• Approved step increase for Highway Equipment Operator Andrew Aswegan (Unanimous)
• Approved reappointment of Commissioner Rodney Peterson to SEMMCHRA for a 5-year term (Unanimous)
• Approved June 25, 2024 meeting minutes and agenda (Unanimous)

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will discuss a Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) replacement plan. Emergency Management Director Matt Maas and Sheriff Scott Rose are scheduled to present.

• CAD Replacement Plan presentation

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners met as the Committee of the Whole on July 9, 2024. Sheriff Rose and Emergency Management Director Matt Maas presented a plan to replace the Sheriff's Office's 20+ year old CAD/RMS system with a Pro Phoenix system, to be purchased over 5 years using E911 and Permit to Carry funds. No motion, vote, or approval is recorded in the minutes; the Board discussed the proposal and thanked the presenters before adjourning.

• No formal decisions, motions, or votes are recorded in the minutes
• Received presentation on replacing the Sheriff's Office CAD/RMS system with Pro Phoenix
• No action taken on the proposed CAD/RMS purchase; discussion only

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will meet to receive an update from Jennifer Hengel, Executive Director of Semcac. The meeting is scheduled for 4:30 PM at the Government Services Building in Mantorville.

• Semcac Update by Jennifer Hengel

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners met as the Committee of the Whole on June 25, 2024. Semcac Executive Director Jennifer Hengel presented an update and requested county funding for five programs: Senior Nutrition ($3,000), Senior & Caregiver Advocacy ($5,000), Volunteer Driver Program ($1,500), Kasson Food Shelf ($2,000), and Rolling Hills Transit ($5,000). No decisions or votes on the requests are recorded in these minutes; the meeting adjourned at 4:56 p.m.

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss setting a date for the Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan and Bridge Priority List hearing. The agenda also includes a resolution for an 80'x100' transfer station and an administrator search for Fairview Care Center.

• 80'x100' transfer station resolution
• Setting a date for the Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan hearing
• Fairview Care Center Administrator search
• Intent to apply for TZD funding
• Pull-tabs gambling permit amendment

The Board declared a state of emergency due to severe weather and flooding that caused public property damage. The Board also approved funding commitments for a new transfer station and hired a search agency for a care center administrator.

• Declared a state of emergency due to heavy rain and flooding (Unanimous)
• Approved amended resolution to cover costs exceeding $2.1M for a new transfer station (Unanimous)
• Authorized Aspen Associates to search for a Fairview Care Center Administrator (Unanimous)
• Set Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan hearing for July 9, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved revocation and re-establishment of C.S.A.H. 5 alignment (Unanimous)
• Approved $158,646.39 in bills across three funds (Unanimous)
• Accepted $300 in crochet baby items donated by Dodge Center Dorcas Society (Unanimous)
• Amended gambling permit for K-M Snowdrifters at the County Fairgrounds (Unanimous)

Fairview Care Center Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The board will review May financial reports and approve recent personnel changes. Members are also scheduled to discuss capital spending and the approval of roofing work.

• Review and approval of May bills and financials
• Approval of May personnel actions
• Review of capital spending worksheet
• Approval of roofing
• Presentation on infection control

The Fairview Care Center Board of Commissioners approved the agenda, March 26 minutes, May personnel actions, May bills totaling $212,949.77, and May financials. The board also approved a $9,302 quote from Merit for roof repairs. In addition, the board reviewed updates on the facility census, COVID-19 cases, cash on hand, activities, and infection control.

• Approved the meeting agenda
• Approved the March 26, 2024, meeting minutes
• Approved May personnel actions
• Approved May bills totaling $212,949.77
• Approved May financials
• Approved roof repairs by Merit in the amount of $9,302

Public Health Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will receive a public health update from Director Amy Evans. The agenda also includes a request to approve public health donations.

• Public Health Update
• Request to Approve Public Health Donations

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will review minutes from the June 11, 2024 meetings and examine commissioner warrants. The agenda also includes a review of the personnel agenda and proposed amendments to pull-tabs gambling permits.

• Pull-Tabs Gambling Permit(s) Amendment
• Review of Commissioner Warrants
• Personnel Agenda review
• Review of June 11, 2024 Committee of the Whole and Board of Commissioners meetings

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will review previous board and committee meetings, commissioner warrants, personnel matters, and pull-tab gambling permits. The agenda includes reports from the Executive Assistant, Finance Director, Employee Relations Director, and Accounting Services Director.

• Review of May 28, 2024, Committee of the Whole meeting
• Review of May 28, 2024, Board of Commissioners regular meeting
• Commissioner Warrants
• Personnel Agenda
• Pull-Tabs Gambling Permit(s)

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will review several administrative and zoning items. Discussion includes the 2023 Road & Bridge Annual Report, various zoning requests, and a closed session regarding property offers.

• Road & Bridge 2023 Annual Report
• CUP #21-05 Hasley (Amend)
• IUP #24-04 Thomforde
• ZA #24-03 Park Ordinance
• Closed session to discuss possible offer on properties

The Board authorized a three-year contract for Cloudpermit online permitting software and adopted amendments to the county's Park Ordinance. Other actions included approving several land-use permits and authorizing a grant application for the Renovation ReUse Building.

• Approved 3-year Cloudpermit software contract (2-1)
• Adopted amendments to Zoning Ordinance Chapters 16 and 18 (Unanimous)
• Approved CUP #21-05 Hasley amendment (Unanimous)
• Approved IUP #24-04 Thomforde (Unanimous)
• Authorized $200,000 grant application for Renovation ReUse Building (Unanimous)
• Authorized MOU for interim Fairview Executive Director replacement (Unanimous)
• Appointed Finance Director as EDIAM Identified Official of Authority (Unanimous)
• Approved $524,683.27 in bills (Unanimous)

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Committee of the Whole meeting on June 11, 2024, consists of a single scheduled item. Dr. R. Ross Reichard, Chief Medical Examiner, will deliver a presentation.

• Presentation by Chief Medical Examiner Dr. R. Ross Reichard

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners met as a Committee of the Whole on June 11, 2024. Chief Medical Examiner Dr. R. Ross Reichard presented the 2023 Annual Medical Examiner report, covering topics such as county cases, manner of death, suicides, homicides, accidental deaths, drug-related deaths, and natural deaths. The Board thanked Dr. Reichard for the update. No substantive decisions, motions, or votes are recorded in these minutes; the meeting was presentation-only and adjourned at 9:17 a.m.

Planning Commission - Regular Meeting

The Dodge County Planning Commission recommended approval of an amendment to Conditional Use Permit 21-05 for the Divanyx Event Center agritourism business in Ashland Township, but only after applicant Aaron Hasley agreed to remove the proposed year-round reception hall from the request. The recommendation keeps the deck expansion and business-hours change, revises condition #18 to allow a business owner or event coordinator on site, and removes conditions #21 and #22, leaving 21 conditions. The commission also unanimously recommended approval of Interim Use Permit 24-04 for a 3.10-acre dwelling split in Milton Township and Zoning Amendment 24-03 to Chapter 16 and Chapter 18 park standards. All recommendations go to the County Board on 6/11/2024.

• Recommended approval of CUP #21-05 amendment (deck expansion, hours change) with reception hall removed (6-0, Erler absent)
• Revised condition #18 to require a business owner or event coordinator on site during events
• Removed conditions #21 and #22, leaving 21 recommended conditions
• Recommended approval of IUP #24-04 for a 3.10-acre dwelling split in Milton Township (6-0)
• Recommended approval of Zoning Amendment #24-03 to Chapter 16 and Chapter 18 park standards (6-0)
• Accepted May 1, 2024 minutes and approved public hearing notice (6-0)
• Adjourned at 7:59 PM

Fairview Care Center Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Directors met to review April financial reports, including a discussion on low cash on hand and census percentages. The meeting also included the review of monthly personnel actions and various facility updates.

• Approval of March bills totaling $362,830.80
• Review of April personnel changes including new hires and status changes
• Discussion regarding 67% census average and occupancy levels
• Report of four VA-reported incidents involving nursing and resident care
• Update on the Wing 2 tub remodel process

The Board approved April personnel actions, financial reports, and bills totaling $177,149.78. Members reviewed census data and a presentation on resident acuity and staffing. The board also rescheduled the December meeting and tabled a recruitment commercial proposal.

• Approved April personnel actions
• Approved bills in the amount of $177,149.78
• Approved April financials
• Approved March 26, 2024 minutes
• Approved agenda as submitted
• Moved December 24, 2024 meeting to December 23, 2024
• Tabled KTTC Commercial recruitment costs

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will review minutes from May 14, 2024, meetings and examine commissioner warrants. The agenda also includes the personnel agenda and a contract for the Shade Tree Project.

• Shade Tree Project Contract
• Commissioner Warrants
• Personnel Agenda

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Committee of the Whole will hear a report from South Country Health Alliance. Leota Lind, CEO, and Scott Schufman, CFO, are scheduled to present.

• South Country Health Alliance report

The Committee of the Whole met to receive a semi-annual report from the South Country Health Alliance. No substantive decisions were made during the meeting.

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will review several administrative items, including a permit fee request and the Shade Tree Project contract. The meeting also includes presentations from the University of Minnesota Extension and the Dodge County Community Foundation.

• Morris Marquette request on permit fee
• Shade Tree Project contract
• MDH and MDA sub-agreements with Olmsted SCWD
• Discussion of possible offers on properties in closed session
• Fairgrounds update

The Board of Commissioners approved a contract for new agenda management software and authorized several personnel changes, including an updated job description for the Criminal Paralegal/Victim Witness Coordinator. Commissioners also approved sub-agreements for safe drinking water programs and authorized an interim County Surveyor appointment. Additionally, the Board approved out-of-state travel for an Assistant County Attorney and held a closed session regarding property offers.

• Approved Granicus agenda software contract ($16,911 setup; $13,506 annual fee)
• Appointed Jeffrey Ekblad as interim County Surveyor effective June 1
• Approved $306,960.88 in county bills
• Authorized sub-agreements for safe drinking water programs
• Approved EAB Tree Project contract with Boyum Tree Service
• Approved out-of-state travel for Assistant Attorney Crysta Parkin ($1,600)
• Approved personnel actions including job description updates and step increases

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will review the April 23, 2024, Board of Commissioners meeting. The agenda also includes a review of commissioner warrants and the personnel agenda.

• Review of April 23, 2004, Board of Commissioners meeting
• Commissioner warrants
• Personnel agenda

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will hold discussions regarding new agenda software and online software. These presentations involve the County Administrator, IT Director, Zoning Administrator, and Environmental Services Director.

• Discussion of new agenda software
• Discussion of online software

The Committee of the Whole discussed proposals for Cloudpermit software for online permitting and code enforcement, and Granicus software for agenda management. No formal actions were taken on either proposal.

• Tabled action on Cloudpermit online permitting and code enforcement software
• Discussed Granicus agenda software proposal to replace MinuteTraq

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss various county updates and administrative items. Topics include an Emerald Ash Borer plan, wind updates, and a request to purchase voter assist election equipment.

• Dodge County Wind update
• Renovation ReUse Concrete Ramp discussion
• Additional Hauler Licenses 2024
• Dodge County Emerald Ash Borer Plan
• Request to purchase new Voter Assist Election Equipment

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners approved buying 35 ExpressVote voter assist machines and training for $148,275, and authorized a $2,050 concrete ramp at the Renovation ReUse building. The board also adopted an Emerald Ash Borer Management Plan, approved a waste hauler license resolution, and approved an interim use permit for a rural business in Claremont Township. Personnel actions were approved, but a criminal paralegal and victim/witness coordinator item was pulled until the County Attorney can provide input.

• Approved purchase of 35 ExpressVote machines and training for $148,275 (Unanimous)
• Approved $2,050 concrete ramp at Renovation ReUse building by Tony Paulson Builders (Unanimous)
• Adopted Emerald Ash Borer Management Plan (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #2024-20 licensing waste haulers Harter's Disposal, Thompson Sanitation, and Tracy Services through Feb 8, 2025 (Unanimous)
• Approved Interim Use Permit #24-03 for Wipf rural business in Claremont Township (Unanimous)
• Approved bills totaling $546,877.40 from three funds (Unanimous)
• Approved personnel actions; pulled criminal paralegal and victim/witness coordinator item (Unanimous)
• Set county road tour for June 7, 2024, 8-11 a.m. (No vote)

Planning Commission - Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will meet to approve the agenda and previous minutes from April 3, 2024. The commission will also address IUP #24-03 Wipf.

• IUP #24-03 Wipf

The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of Interim Use Permit #24-03 for Terrence Wipf to continue a Limited Rural Business in Claremont Township. The permit allows the business to operate under new ownership with specific limits on employees and land use. The recommendation will be presented to the County Board on May 14, 2024.

• Recommended approval of IUP #24-03 Wipf (7-0)
• Closed public hearing for IUP #24-03 Wipf (7-0)
• Approved agenda and minutes from April 3 meeting (7-0)

Fairview Care Center Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The board will meet to approve March minutes and review recent personnel changes. Members will also examine monthly bills, financial reports, and a summary of facility incidents and census data.

• Review and approval of March personnel changes
• Review and approval of monthly bills
• Review of March financials and cash on hand
• Facility summary including census and reported incidents

The Board approved March personnel actions and financial reports. Members discussed a 67% census rate and a lower cash on hand balance attributed to payroll and revenue declines.

• Approved March personnel actions
• Approved bills totaling $362,830.80
• Approved March financials

Public Health Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Health Committee will meet to consider a request to approve public health donations. Director Amy Evans will also provide a public health update.

• Request to approve Public Health donations
• Public Health update from Director Amy Evans

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will review the Board of Commissioners regular meeting from April 9, process commissioner warrants, and discuss personnel matters. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding a DNR Ash Tree Removal Grant.

• Review of April 9, 2024, Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting
• Commissioner Warrants
• Personnel Agenda
• DNR Ash Tree Removal Grant

Public Works Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Works Committee will meet on April 23, 2024. The agenda includes an item to award SAP 020-615-021.

• Award SAP 020-615-021

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will review several county road revocations across multiple townships and a cooperative agreement for CSAH 20 resurfacing. Additional items include agency appropriations, personnel matters, and public health donations.

• CSAH 20 Resurfacing Cooperative Agreement
• Revocation of CR K to Ashland Township
• Revocation of CR K to Hayfield Township
• Revocation of CR G and CR 5 to Claremont Township
• Revocation of CR H, CR G and CR 5 to Wasioja Township

The Board unanimously approved cooperative agreements and resolutions to transfer maintenance of several county roads to Ashland, Hayfield, Claremont, and Wasioja Townships effective May 1, 2024. They also authorized a $354,200 share for the CSAH 20 resurfacing project with Steele County and approved 2024 agency appropriations totaling over $180,000. Personnel actions and bill payments were approved, though one personnel vote was 4-1.

• Approved CSAH 20 resurfacing cooperative agreement with Steele County (Unanimous)
• Revoked CR K to Ashland Township jurisdiction (Unanimous)
• Revoked CR K to Hayfield Township jurisdiction (Unanimous)
• Revoked CR G and CR 5 to Claremont Township jurisdiction (Unanimous)
• Revoked CR H, CR G, and CR 5 to Wasioja Township jurisdiction (4-1)
• Approved 2024 agency appropriations including $93,500 to SWCD and $60,000 to SEMMCHRA (Unanimous)
• Approved bill payments totaling $329,582.41 (Unanimous)
• Approved personnel actions including step increases and seasonal hires (4-1)

Board of Adjustments - Regular Meeting

The Board of Adjustments will meet to approve the agenda and minutes from the March 20, 2024 meeting. The primary business includes a discussion or decision regarding variance #24-03 Castner.

• Variance #24-03 Castner

The Board of Adjustments approved a variance request for Lawren and Marina Castner to create a new lot that does not meet the minimum quarter-mile width requirement. The approved parcel width is approximately 448 feet. Approval is conditioned on providing documentation that the 6.2-acre parcel can accommodate two type I septic systems.

• Approved variance #24-03 for lot width relief in Mantorville Township (5-0)
• Approved April 17, 2024 public hearing notice (unanimous)
• Accepted March 20, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will review previous meetings from March 26, 2024, and address commissioner warrants. The agenda also includes a personnel report.

• Review of March 26 Committee of the Whole meeting
• Review of March 26 Board of Commissioners regular meeting
• Commissioner Warrants
• Personnel Agenda

Public Works Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Works Committee meeting includes a presentation on loader tires from the Environmental Services Director. The provided agenda is sparse and contains no other specific items.

• Loader tires

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss various county matters including dust control on County Road F and a CAMA contract renewal. The meeting includes a closed session to discuss possible offers on properties.

• Dust control (chloride) on County Road F
• IUP #24-02 Doman
• Support for food separation equipment
• CAMA contract renewal
• Closed session to discuss possible offer on properties

The Board approved an interim use permit for a vehicle restoration business in Hayfield Township and renewed a property tax appraisal software contract. The Board also voted to stop paying for dust control on County Road F and supported a regional food waste project in Olmsted County.

• Discontinued county-funded dust control on County Road F (Unanimous)
• Approved IUP #24-02 for Doman’s Garage LLC vehicle restoration business (Unanimous)
• Approved letters of support for Olmsted County food waste separation equipment (3-1)
• Approved bills totaling $508,895.35 (Unanimous)
• Approved personnel actions including step increases and one 911 Dispatcher vacancy posting (Unanimous)
• Approved 5-year CAMA renewal contract with Vanguard Appraisal (Unanimous)

Planning Commission - Regular Meeting

The Dodge County Planning Commission will meet to approve the agenda and minutes from the March 6, 2024 meeting. The commission is also scheduled to consider Interim Use Permit #24-02 Doman.

• Consideration of Interim Use Permit #24-02 Doman
• Approval of March 6, 2024, meeting minutes

The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of Interim Use Permit #24-02 for Doman’s Garage LLC to operate a private vehicle restoration business in Hayfield Township. The permit allows the business to restore 6-8 vehicles annually with 3 employees, subject to 11 specific conditions outlined by staff. The recommendation moves to the next meeting for final action.

• Approved minutes from March 6, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved public hearing notice for April 3, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for IUP #24-02 Doman (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of IUP #24-02 with 11 conditions (unanimous)

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will review previous meeting minutes and discuss snowmobile club sponsorships. The agenda also includes a review of commissioner warrants and personnel matters.

• 2024/2025 Snowmobile Club Sponsorship - Dodge County Snowseekers Snowmobile Club
• Commissioner Warrants
• Personnel Agenda

Public Works Committee - Committee Meeting

The Public Works Committee will consider awarding the Dodge County Shop parking lot resurfacing. Assistant County Engineer Travis Martin is scheduled to present this item.

• Award DC Shop Parking Lot Resurfacing

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will meet to determine interest in establishing a Family Resource Center. Patricia Harrelson, MNPrairie LICSW Program Manager, will lead this discussion.

• Determine interest in establishing a Family Resource Center

The Committee of the Whole met to discuss a proposal from MNPrairie County Alliance to establish a Family Resource Center (FRC) in Dodge County. Representatives explained the planning process, which is currently funded by a Sauer Family Foundation grant, and sought input on community needs and potential locations. No decisions were made, no funds were authorized, and the discussion served as an informational work session.

• Discussed MNPrairie proposal for Family Resource Center (no vote)
• No funding authorized by Dodge County for FRC
• Board provided input on local demographics and service gaps
• Meeting adjourned without formal action

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss various county business, including a closed session regarding possible property offers. Other topics include public health proclamations, personnel updates, and snowmobile club sponsorships.

• Award for DC Shop Parking Lot Resurfacing
• Award for Wasioja Seminary Ruins Stabilization Phase I Project
• Dodge Center Lions Club Donation to DCRR
• National Public Health Week Proclamation
• 2024/2025 Snowmobile Club Sponsorship - Dodge County Snowseekers Snowmobile Club

The Board awarded a contract to Environmental Associates for the Wasioja Seminary Ruins Stabilization Phase I Project. The Board also passed a resolution requesting that Dodge County remain shotgun-only for deer hunting. Other actions included approving county bills and sponsoring local snowmobile clubs.

• Awarded Wasioja Seminary Ruins Stabilization Phase I contract to Environmental Associates for $616,368.00 (Unanimous)
• Accepted $200 donation from Dodge Center Lions Club for Dodge County Renovation Reuse (Unanimous)
• Approved Proclamation declaring April 1-7, 2024, as National Public Health Week (Unanimous)
• Approved bills totaling $176,095.41 (Unanimous)
• Authorized posting of two seasonal Transfer Station positions (Unanimous)
• Approved travel and training for Kailee Thompson in Oklahoma City, estimated up to $3,000.00 (Unanimous)
• Approved sponsorship of Dodge County Snowseekers and Snowdrifters Snowmobile Clubs (Unanimous)
• Adopted resolution supporting the continued prohibition of rifle use for deer hunting in Dodge County (Unanimous)

Fairview Care Center Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Directors reviewed personnel changes, financial reports, and facility updates. Key actions included approving the purchase of an air conditioning unit for the server room and reviewing monthly expenditures.

• Approval of $227,855.41 in January bills
• Purchase of a server room A/C unit from Ron’s of Northfield
• Review of personnel changes including new hires and wage increases
• Discussion of a $4,200 OSHA citation
• Approval of February minutes

The Board approved February personnel actions, financials, and bills totaling $216,850.38. Members also authorized specific facility maintenance for doors, carpeting, and tiling.

• Approved February bills in the amount of $216,850.38
• Approved February personnel actions
• Approved February financials
• Approved door and closer replacements for $7,700
• Approved outdoor carpet replacement and bathroom tile for $3,875
• Tabled notification of monitoring water systems

Board of Adjustments - Regular Meeting

The Dodge County Board of Adjustments will meet to approve the agenda and January 23, 2024 meeting minutes. The board is also scheduled to consider variance application V#24-02 Masching.

• Variance V#24-02 Masching
• Approval of January 23, 2024 meeting minutes

The Dodge County Board of Adjustments approved variance #24-02, allowing Jason and Korina Masching to create a new 2.636-acre lot in Section 14, Westfield Township that does not meet the county's 3-acre minimum lot size (exclusive of road right-of-way). The approval carries one condition from staff's Findings of Facts: the existing parcel must meet SSTS Program Manager requirements and show proof of compliant sewage disposal before the survey is approved by the Environmental Services Department. The board also accepted the January 23, 2024 meeting minutes and approved the public hearing notice for the March 20 meeting. Member Beth Davis was absent.

• Approved variance #24-02 for a 2.636-acre lot below the 3-acre minimum (4-0, Davis absent)
• Added condition: parcel must meet SSTS Program Manager requirements and show compliant sewage disposal before survey approval
• Accepted January 23, 2024 Board of Adjustments minutes (unanimous, Davis absent)
• Approved public hearing notice for the March 20, 2024 meeting (unanimous, Davis absent)
• Closed the public hearing on variance #24-02 (motion passed)
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:00 am (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss zoning updates for the commercial district and other chapters. The agenda includes the Wasioja Seminary Ruins Stabilization Phase I Project award and courthouse HVAC upgrades. Additionally, the board will review progress on a new park and a trail grant letter of support for Kasson.

• Wasioja Seminary Ruins Stabilization Phase I Project award
• GSB and Courthouse HVAC Upgrades
• Zoning amendments (ZA #24-01 and ZA #24-02)
• 2024-25 Lawn Care Contracts
• Proposed Land Purchase

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a $2,271,313 contract for HVAC upgrades at the Government Services Building and Courthouse. They also authorized the purchase of four acres from MnDOT for highway operations and named the new park near the Transfer Station 'Restoration Park.' Additionally, the board approved zoning amendments, personnel actions, and a $132,080 trailer purchase for the Transfer Station.

• Approved $2,271,313 HVAC upgrade contract with Benike (Unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of 4 acres from MnDOT for ~$40,000 for highway use (Unanimous)
• Named new park near Transfer Station 'Restoration Park' (Unanimous)
• Approved Interim Use Permit #24-01 for ADU in Ripley Township (Unanimous)
• Adopted Zoning Amendment #24-01 to Chapter 12 Commercial District (Unanimous)
• Adopted Zoning Amendment #24-02 to Chapters 18 & 21 regarding septic systems (Unanimous)
• Accepted Corey's Outdoor Services lawn care proposal for 2024-2025 (Unanimous)
• Authorized $132,080 purchase of 48' Stargate trailer for Transfer Station (Unanimous)

Public Health Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Health Committee will meet to receive a public health update from Director Amy Evans.

• Public Health Update by Amy Evans

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

This meeting consists of procedural reviews of committee and board meetings from February 27, 2024. The agenda also includes a review of commissioner warrants and personnel matters.

• Review of Feb 27, 2024, meeting minutes
• Commissioner warrants
• Personnel agenda

Public Works Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will meet to discuss highway maintenance payments and a seal coat project award. Environmental Services will also present trailer quotes.

• Maintenance payment for TH 14 Turnback Section
• 2024 Seal Coat Project award
• Trailer quotes from Environmental Services

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will discuss non-conforming use policies regarding churches in commercial districts. Angela Organ, representing Zwingli United Church of Christ (Berne Church), is scheduled to participate.

• Discussion on Non-Conforming Use & Churches Not Being Allowed in Commercial Districts

The Committee of the Whole discussed a request from Zwingli United Church of Christ to purchase a commercial property across the road from their current site. No formal decisions were made, but the Board expressed willingness to work with the church to find a legal path forward.

Planning Commission - Regular Meeting

The commission will review zoning amendments for the Commercial District and Chapters 18 and 21. The agenda also includes consideration of IUP #24-01 Nuss and the approval of bylaws.

• Zoning Amendment ZA #24-01 (Commercial District)
• Zoning Amendments ZA #24-02 (Chapters 18 & 21)
• IUP #24-01 Nuss
• Approval of Bylaws and Rules of Procedure
• Commission elections

The Dodge County Planning Commission met on March 6, 2024, and elected Darren Durst as Chair and Josh Toquam as Vice Chair for 2024, both by unanimous vote. The Commission approved its bylaws and accepted the minutes of the November 1, 2023 regular meeting. It recommended approval of Interim Use Permit #24-01 for an accessory dwelling unit in Ripley Township, and recommended approval of two zoning amendments (ZA #24-01 and ZA #24-02) that now go to the County Board on March 12, 2024. A conditional use permit application from Wilbur-Ellis was withdrawn by the applicant before the hearing.

• Elected Darren Durst as Board Chair for 2024 (unanimous)
• Elected Josh Toquam as Board Vice Chair for 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved Bylaws and Rules of Procedure (unanimous, 6-0; Asprey absent)
• Accepted minutes of Nov 1, 2023 regular meeting (unanimous, 6-0; Asprey absent)
• Approved public hearing notice for March 6, 2024 meeting (unanimous, 6-0; Asprey absent)
• CUP #10-07 Wilbur-Ellis amendment withdrawn by applicant on March 5, 2024
• Recommended approval of IUP #24-01 (Nuss accessory dwelling unit) with 9 conditions (unanimous, 6-0; Asprey absent)
• Recommended approval of ZA #24-01 removing subsection 12.3.7 from Chapter 12 (unanimous, 6-0; Asprey absent)

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will review the 2023 fourth quarter financials and the Economic Development Authority year in review. The agenda includes discussions on weight restrictions, a child care grant application, and a bridge replacement program resolution.

• Award SAP 020-599-121 and SAP 020-599-122
• Award Fuel Contract
• 2024 Weight Restrictions
• Child Care Grant Application
• Resolution for State Transportation Fund Local Bridge Replacement Program Grant SP 020-609-037

The Board adopted a resolution establishing axle weight limits for county roads to prevent spring thaw damage. They also approved a grant application for child care expansion in Kasson and accepted a state grant for a bridge replacement project.

• Approved 2024 weight restrictions resolution for county roads (Unanimous)
• Approved support and authorization for a Child Care Economic Development Grant application for a Kasson facility (Unanimous)
• Approved $236,621.42 in bills (4-1)
• Approved step increases and status changes for four employees (Unanimous)
• Approved $80,349.25 state grant for Bridge No 20J50 construction on C.S.A.H. 9 (Unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including SAP awards and fuel contract (Unanimous)

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

This meeting consists of procedural reviews of the February 13, 2024, Committee of the Whole and Board of Commissioners meetings. The committee will also review commissioner warrants and the personnel agenda.

• Review of Feb 13, 2024, Committee of the Whole and Board of Commissioners meetings
• Commissioner Warrants
• Personnel Agenda

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The committee will meet to hear an update from Annie Buresh, the Museum Director. The agenda consists of a single presentation regarding the Dodge County Historical Society.

• Dodge County Historical Society Update by Annie Buresh

The Committee of the Whole met to receive an annual update from Museum Director Annie Buresh regarding the Dodge County Historical Society. The meeting consisted of a presentation and discussion; no formal votes or policy decisions were recorded.

Fairview Care Center Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will review January personnel changes and financial reports, including bills and cash on hand. The meeting also includes a workforce update and a summary of the facility's status. A proposal for adding air conditioning to the server room is scheduled for review.

• Review of January personnel changes and workforce updates
• Approval of January financial reports and bills
• Review of January cash on hand
• Proposal for server room A/C addition

The Fairview Care Center Board of Commissioners met on February 27, 2024, and approved the meeting agenda and minutes of January 23, 2024. The board approved January personnel actions, January bills totaling $227,855.41, and the January financials. The board also approved purchasing an A/C unit for the server room from Ron's of Northfield after reviewing three bids. The meeting adjourned at 3:22 PM.

• Approved the agenda as submitted (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of January 23, 2024 (motion carried)
• Approved January personnel actions (motion carried)
• Approved January bills in the amount of $227,855.41 (motion carried)
• Approved January financials (motion carried)
• Approved purchase of an A/C unit for the server room from Ron's of Northfield (motion carried)
• Adjourned the meeting at 3:22 PM (motion carried)

Public Works Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Works Committee will review a resolution for the State Transportation Fund Local Bridge Replacement Program. The committee is also scheduled to award SAP projects 020-599-121 and 020-599-122 and a fuel contract.

• Resolution for State Transportation Fund Local Bridge Replacement Program (SP 020-609-037)
• Award of SAP 020-599-121 and SAP 020-599-122
• Award of fuel contract

Public Health Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will receive a public health update from Director Amy Evans. The agenda also includes a request for out-of-state travel.

• Request for Out of State Travel
• Public Health Update

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will review commissioner warrants and the personnel agenda for February 13, 2024. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding a special inspection of the Fairgrounds Event Space.

• Review of January 23, 2024, Board of Commissioners meeting
• Commissioner warrants
• Personnel agenda for February 13, 2024
• Fairgrounds Event Space special inspection

Public Works Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will review awards for 2024 season supplies and process final payments for specific 2022 bituminous projects. It will also consider an award for SAP 020-609-037.

• Awarding of 2024 season supplies
• Final payment for 2022 Bituminous Projects (SAP 020-603-016, SAP 020-605-029, and SAP 020-609-036)
• Awarding of SAP 020-609-037

Committee of the Whole - Committee Meeting

The committee will discuss a restructure within the Land Records office and review the 2024 Legislative Platform. The meeting is scheduled for 9:10 AM at the Government Services Building in Mantorville.

• Office Restructure discussion led by Ryan DeCook
• Legislative Platform 2024 discussion led by Jim Elmquist

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners met as the Committee of the Whole on February 13, 2024. The Board reached consensus to let the Director of Land Records create a new job description in the Recorder office that combines the Recorder Office Manager position with added staff performance evaluation and Driver's License Agent duties, with a transition timeline starting October 1, 2024. The Board also reviewed a draft 2024 legislative handout and discussed which topics to emphasize with legislators. No formal motions or votes were recorded in the minutes.

• Consensus: allow Director of Land Records to create a new Recorder office job description combining Office Manager duties with staff performance evaluation and Driver's License Agent (no vote recorded)
• Transition timeline for the new position set to start October 1, 2024 (per the Director's report)
• Board reviewed draft 2024 legislative handout for AMC legislative meetings; no action taken
• Board agreed to invite Representative Duane Quam and Senator Carla Nelson to a future meeting
• Board discussed the new Minnesota State flag and Minnesota becoming a sanctuary state; no action taken

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss various county operations including law enforcement contracts and computer equipment purchases. The meeting includes a closed session regarding pending litigation for courthouse and GSB reconstruction.

• Final payment for 2022 Bituminous Projects (SAP 020-603-016, SAP 020-605-029, and SAP 020-609-036)
• Revocation of CR K to Canisteo Township
• Sunrise Trail Improvement Grant Application
• Resolution to accept a donation from Claremont Area Chamber of Commerce
• 2024 Computer Equipment Purchases and M365 Subscriptions

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners approved several items at its February 13, 2024 regular meeting. The board unanimously adopted Resolution 2024-05 revoking CR K from CSAH 9 to CSAH 13 as a county road, effective March 1, 2024, placing it under Canisteo Township jurisdiction. The board also approved a grant application for the Sunrise Trail Improvement Project, authorized 2024 computer purchases and Microsoft Cloud migration, approved law enforcement service contracts, and approved a $16,994 contract for underground storage tank repairs. Commissioner Rodney Peterson was absent; Commissioner Tim Tjosaas attended remotely.

• Approved Resolution 2024-05 revoking CR K from CSAH 9 to CSAH 13 as a county road, effective March 1, 2024, transferring jurisdiction to Canisteo Township (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2024-06 authorizing grant application to MnDNR for Sunrise Trail Improvement Project, with $116,000 local match (Unanimous)
• Approved 2024 computer purchases ($72,175), Microsoft Cloud subscriptions ($125,400 annually), and vendor migration ($20,000) (Unanimous)
• Approved law enforcement service contracts with Claremont, Dodge Center, Hayfield, Mantorville, and Triton and Hayfield School Districts (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2024-07 accepting $500 donation from Claremont Area Chamber of Commerce for veteran services vehicle (Unanimous)
• Approved out-of-county mileage reimbursement for Deputy Purdue at $0.50 per mile (3 to 1)
• Approved contract with MN Petroleum for underground storage tank repairs at approximately $16,994 (Unanimous)
• Approved personnel actions including step increases and FTE changes (Unanimous)

Fairview Care Center Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Directors met to review financial reports, including December bills totaling $181,198.90. Discussion included the 2024 budget, a prioritized capital plan, and the creation of an HR Coordinator position.

• Approval of December bills totaling $181,198.90
• Approval of the 2024 budget
• Approval of the 2024 capital plan with estimated projects at $310,059
• Creation of a new HR Coordinator position at grade 7
• Review of November personnel changes and wage adjustments

The Fairview Care Center Board of Commissioners held its regular meeting on January 23, 2024, electing John Allen as Chairman, Rhonda Toquam as Vice Chairman, and David Kenworthy as Secretary for 2024. The board approved December personnel actions, pay adjustments, and payment of December bills totaling $294,205.40. It also approved a tub room remodel with Scott Melder and Apollo, a $7,040 painting quote, and a main office remodel including Giesler's office shelving, while excluding changes to Thompson's office.

• Elected John Allen as Chairman for 2024 (unanimous)
• Elected Rhonda Toquam as Vice Chairman for 2024 (unanimous)
• Elected David Kenworthy as Secretary for 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved December 26, 2023 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved December personnel actions (motion carried)
• Approved pay adjustments (motion carried)
• Approved December bills of $294,205.40 (motion carried)
• Approved tub room remodel with Scott Melder and Apollo (motion carried)

Board of Adjustments - Regular Meeting

The Board of Adjustments will consider the approval of Bylaws and Rules of Procedure. The meeting also includes elections and a discussion regarding variance V #24-01 for Wilbur-Ellis.

• Approval of Bylaws and Rules of Procedure
• Variance V #24-01 (Wilbur-Ellis)
• Approval of August 16, 2023 meeting minutes

The Board of Adjustments approved a variance allowing a sign to exceed the standard size limit in the Agricultural District. The board also elected its 2024 leadership and approved the board's bylaws.

• Elected Dean Schuette as Board Chair (Unanimous)
• Elected Chad Knudson as Board Vice Chair (Unanimous)
• Approved Bylaws and Rules of Procedure (Unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from August 16, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved public hearing notice for January 23, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved variance #24-01 for Wilbur-Ellis to allow a 96.84 sq. ft. sign (4-0)

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Administration Committee will review commissioner warrants and the personnel agenda. The meeting also includes a review of the January 9, 2024, Board of Commissioners regular meeting.

• Commissioner Warrants
• Personnel Agenda
• Review of Jan 9, 2024, Board of Commissioners meeting

Public Works Committee - Committee Meeting

The Public Works Committee will meet to discuss 2024 hauler licenses. Lauren Cornelius, Environmental Services Director, and Rita Cole, Waste Management Administrator, are scheduled to present.

• 2024 Hauler Licenses

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss land records, personnel matters, and road turnbacks. The meeting includes a presentation from the Minnesota Gold Star Monument Committee.

• Discussion of 2023 Fire Abatements
• Revocation of CR K to Ashland Township
• Scheduling of County Road Turnback Public Hearings
• Minnesota Gold Star Monument Committee Presentation

The Board approved over $741,000 in payments across four funds and issued 2024 waste hauler licenses. They also accepted a $15,000 donation for the Gold Star Memorial and authorized the purchase of a plat storage cabinet. Several items, including a road revocation and fire abatement requests, were tabled.

• Approved $741,923.63 in bills across Revenue, Road and Bridge, Environmental Quality, and Agency funds (Unanimous)
• Reduced zoning permit fee to $400.00 for property 10.017.0100 with no fines (Unanimous)
• Tabled three fire abatement requests until properties are in compliance by June 1, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved approximately $6,000 purchase of a plat cabinet from Government Forms and Supplies (Unanimous)
• Tabled revocation of CR K to Ashland Township until after Hayfield Township meeting (Unanimous)
• Scheduled road turnback public hearings for Claremont (March 12) and Wasioja (March 11) (Unanimous)
• Approved 2024 licenses for eight waste haulers from Feb 8, 2024 to Feb 8, 2025 (Unanimous)
• Accepted $15,000 donation for maintenance of the Gold Star Memorial monument (Unanimous)

Public Health Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Health Committee meeting includes a single item for a public health update from Director Amy Evans. No other specific actions or decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Public Health Update

Administration Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will review the December 26, 2023, regular meeting and the January 2, 2024, special meeting of the Board of Commissioners. The agenda also includes a review of commissioner warrants and the personnel agenda.

• Dec 26, 2023, regular meeting
• Jan 2, 2024, special meeting
• Commissioner warrants
• Personnel agenda

Public Safety Committee - Committee Meeting

The Public Safety Committee will review a request for out-of-state training from Operations Captain Jeff Espinosa. The provided agenda does not include specific details regarding the training subject or costs.

• Out of state training request by Operations Captain Jeff Espinosa

Public Works Committee - Committee Meeting

The Dodge County Public Works Committee is reviewing a consulting contract for the Seminary Ruins stabilization project. The item includes design work and project assistance presented by County Engineer Guy Kohlnhofer.

• Consulting contract for Seminary Ruins stabilization design work and project assistance

Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners will review several administrative items, including 2023 abatement lists and financial reports. The agenda also includes updates on the DNR ReLeaf Grant for Fairview Nursing Home and wind-related comments.

• Consulting contract for Seminary Ruins Stabilization design work
• DNR ReLeaf Grant for Fairview Nursing Home
• Dodge County Wind comment
• 2023 Clerical and Hardship Abatement List
• 2023 Fire Abatements

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners approved a $2,303,497.51 bill batch, authorized submitting written comments on the Dodge County Wind project with a request to further explore underground transmission lines, and approved a $42,674.75 DNR grant contract for tree removal at Fairview Care Center. The board also approved 2024 depositories, continued full mileage reimbursement, and approved four fire abatements while tabling three others pending violation review. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $2,303,497.51 in bills from various funds (Unanimous)
• Authorized Environmental Services Director to submit Dodge County Wind comments with added request to explore underground transmission (Unanimous)
• Approved $42,674.75 DNR ReLeaf grant contract for ash tree removal and replacement at Fairview Care Center (Unanimous)
• Approved 2024 authorized depositories list (Unanimous)
• Approved 2023 fire abatements for Gerald Lee, Allison DeRome, Hannah Neitzell, and Coy Borgstrom; tabled Chad Hamersma, Timothy Sletten, and Jacob Peterson pending violation review (Unanimous)
• Approved personnel actions including Sheriff's Office hires and Public Health vacancy posting (Unanimous)
• Approved out-of-state travel for Sergeant Scott Prins to Lifesavers conference in Denver, CO (Unanimous)
• Approved resolution recognizing Dodge County website as alternative method for advertising transportation bids (Unanimous)

Board of Commissioners - Special Meeting

The Dodge County Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting for annual organizational tasks. The agenda includes electing officers, assigning committees, and establishing the 2024 meeting schedule.

• Election of Officers
• 2024 Committee Assignments
• Fee Schedule review
• Appointments of Boards, Commissions, and Committees

The Board held an organizational session to elect its 2024 officers and establish meeting dates. The board approved the 2024 fee schedule and reaffirmed the out-of-state travel policy for elected officials.

• Elected John Allen as Chair for 2024 (Unanimous)
• Elected Rhonda Toquam as Vice Chair for 2024 (Unanimous)
• Elected Jim Elmquist as Clerk of the Board for 2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved 2024 County Board and Fairview Care Center Board meeting dates (Unanimous)
• Approved 2024 Dodge County Fee Schedule (Unanimous)
• Adopted resolution appointing County Board as a standing Committee of the Whole (Unanimous)
• Approved 2024 committee assignments and board/commission appointments (Unanimous)
• Reaffirmed Out of State Travel Policy for Elected Officials (Unanimous)