Freeborn County public meetings in 2021

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting to consider several resolutions, including final payment for a road project and tentative labor agreements with two employee units. The board will also approve claims and adjourn.

• Final payment for SAP 024-626-021, reclaim, recondition and aggregate surfacing on CSAH 26
• Tentative agreement with Minnesota Public Employees Association for Transport Unit, 2022-2024
• Tentative agreement with Minnesota Public Employees Association for Detention Deputy Unit, 2022-2024
• Approval of claims

The Freeborn County Board approved final payment for a road project, tentative labor agreements with two union units, and a batch of claims totaling $1,669,728.03. All resolutions were adopted unanimously as recorded.

• Approved final payment of $109,107.31 to Freeborn Construction for CSAH 26 work (Resolution 21-336)
• Approved tentative 2022-2024 labor agreement with MPEA Transport Unit (Resolution 21-337)
• Approved tentative 2022-2024 labor agreement with MPEA Detention Deputy Unit (Resolution 21-338)
• Approved claims totaling $1,669,728.03 across all funds (Resolution 21-3339)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on a proposed tax abatement for the VFW Lots project and consider approving it. They will also set the 2022 tax levy at 2.5084%, approve the 2022 county budget, and act on numerous resolutions including personnel changes, contracts, and grants.

• Public hearing and resolution on tax abatement for VFW Lots project
• Resolution setting 2022 tax levy at 2.5084%
• Resolution approving and certifying 2022 County Budget
• Resolution approving 3% COLA adjustment for all employees effective January 2022
• Resolution authorizing participation in opioid settlements

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners approved the 2022 tax levy of $25,920,995 and the 2022 budget with total expenditures of $63,804,868. The board also approved a 3% cost-of-living adjustment for all county employees, recognized Juneteenth as a paid county holiday, and approved a 10-year property tax abatement for the VFW building redevelopment in Albert Lea.

• Adopted 2022 tax levy of $25,920,995
• Approved 2022 budget with $63,804,868 in expenditures
• Set 3% COLA for all employees effective January 2022
• Recognized Juneteenth as paid county holiday starting June 2022
• Approved 10-year tax abatement for Clark Street East LLC VFW redevelopment (5-0)
• Declared local state of emergency due to December 15 tornado
• Approved opioid settlement participation with McKesson, Cardinal Health, AmerisourceBergen, and Johnson & Johnson
• Approved claims totaling $2,203,185.62

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners is holding a workshop to discuss and finalize the 2022 property tax levy, American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding for a December 21 resolution, and an update on the vaccine mandate. They will also review a housing abatement and the city's abatement for Freeborn Mower Electric's new facility, plus other departmental items.

• Final 2022 levy discussion
• ARP funding discussion and finalization for 12/21 resolution
• Vaccine mandate update
• Housing abatements and Freeborn Mower Electric abatement
• CSAH 26 expanded easements

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners is holding a special Truth in Taxation meeting to review the proposed 2022 levy and budget, including the anticipated impact of a sales tax exemption. Public comments will be heard, with each speaker limited to five minutes.

• Review of proposed 2022 levy and budget
• Discussion of anticipated sales tax exemption impact
• Public hearing for comments on the 2022 levy and budget

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will consider several resolutions, including setting 2022 solid waste fees, approving collective bargaining agreements, and setting salaries for county officials. The board will also discuss ditch repairs and loans, and enter a closed session to evaluate the county administrator.

• Resolution setting 2022 Solid Waste Fees
• Ratify collective bargaining agreements with LELS-911 Dispatchers and AFSCME Human Services
• Resolutions for Judicial County Ditch No. 12 repair and improvement, including loans and liens
• Set 2022 salaries for County Attorney, Sheriff, and Commissioners
• Closed session to evaluate Administrator Thomas Jensen

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to consider routine approvals and several resolutions, including a proposed tax abatement for the VFW property and a new housing program presented by Albert Lea officials. The board will also act on various departmental items such as agreements, licenses, fees, and final payments for road projects.

• Proposed VFW property tax abatement and new housing program (City of Albert Lea)
• Resolution approving MPCA Delegation Agreement Work Plan for 2022-2023
• Resolution approving Shared Services Agreement with School District #241 and Health Partners
• Resolution setting 2022 Ditch Assessments
• Resolution setting 2022 Solid Waste Fees

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners approved a series of resolutions, including setting 2022 ditch assessments totaling $1,626,000 for repairs across dozens of county, joint, and judicial ditch systems. The board also approved a shared services agreement for an employee clinic, a housing tax abatement for a new home in Albert Lea, and several other routine items. The board tabled setting 2022 solid waste fees until the November 30 meeting.

• Approved 2022 ditch assessments totaling $1,626,000 for repairs across 60+ ditch systems
• Approved shared services agreement with School District #241 and Health Partners for employee clinic
• Approved housing tax abatement for Gerald Vogt's new home at 2398 W 9th St, Albert Lea
• Approved WIC and Peer Breastfeeding Support Program grant contract (~$200,000 total)
• Approved Child and Teen Checkup Outreach grant contract amendment ($55,809)
• Approved 3.2 beer and wine licenses for Three Oak Wines in Bancroft Township
• Approved final payments for highway projects: $11,281.02 (culvert) and $7,636.36 (striping)
• Tabled setting 2022 solid waste fees until November 30, 2021

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners is holding a workshop to discuss and follow up on several items, including 2022 elected official salaries, recycling fees for 2022, an FMEC abatement, and a matter involving Patriot Rock. These are discussion items, not final decisions.

• Follow-up on 2022 elected official salary presentations
• Recycling fees for 2022
• FMEC abatement
• Patriot Rock discussion (Commissioner Herman)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve the consent agenda, hear committee reports, and consider several resolutions, including disaster abatements for two properties, personnel status changes, a joint powers agreement renewal, and an amendment to a conditional use permit. Public comment is limited to five minutes per speaker.

• Local Option Disaster Abatement & Credit for 66883 255th Street, Alden, MN (Parcel #15.013.0081)
• Local Option Disaster Abatement & Credit for 722 Fountain Street, Albert Lea, MN (Parcel #34.118.0240)
• Renew Joint Powers Agreement with SCDIU
• Place Lindsay Duenow (Mental Health Therapist) and Jodi Bauman (DHS Office Support Specialist) on Regular Full-Time Status
• Amend Resolution 19-237 – Harmony Park Conditional Use Permit

The Freeborn County Board approved the consent agenda, including minutes and drainage repairs, and passed resolutions for disaster property tax abatement for two fire-damaged properties. The board also renewed the South Central Drug Investigation Unit joint powers agreement, placed two employees on full-time status, amended the Harmony Park conditional use permit with new conditions, and approved claims totaling $2,097,747.55.

• Approved consent agenda including Oct 19 minutes and drainage repairs CD23
• Approved disaster tax abatement/credit for 66883 255th St, Alden (fire Sept 2, 2021)
• Approved disaster tax abatement/credit for 722 Fountain St, Albert Lea (fire Apr 16, 2020)
• Renewed SCDIU Joint Powers Agreement for 2022-2026
• Placed Lindsay Duenow (Mental Health Therapist) on regular full-time status
• Placed Jodi Bauman (DHS Office Support Specialist) on regular full-time status
• Amended Harmony Park Conditional Use Permit #321 with 15 conditions
• Approved claims totaling $2,097,747.55

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners is holding a workshop to review elected official salaries for 2022, finalize the 2022 budget, and discuss an insurance update. They will also discuss non-budgeted equipment, specifically the Freeborn County Sheriff's Office boat.

• Elected official salary presentations for 2022
• Final review of 2022 budget and insurance update
• Discussion on non-budgeted equipment: FCSO boat

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will hear a presentation on the District 241 referendum and consider several resolutions, including a revised COVID-19 employee protocol that would provide a 5-day COVID bank for vaccinated employees. The board will also act on a consent agenda, department reports, and claims. Most items are routine administrative approvals, with the COVID policy and referendum presentation being the most substantive topics.

• District 241 Referendum presentation at 8:45 a.m.
• Resolution approving revised COVID protocol with 5-day COVID bank for vaccinated employees
• Resolution approving agreement for prosecution of petty misdemeanors in Twin Lakes
• Resolution accepting resignation of Medical Death Investigator Ryan Shea effective Nov. 1, 2021
• Resolution approving Lot Consolidation Agreement for Chris and Holly Dahl

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners approved a revised COVID-19 employee protocol/response plan (Resolution 21-256) with a 4-1 vote, Commissioner Edwin dissenting. They also approved a prosecution agreement with Twin Lakes, accepted two resignations, approved filling a custodian position, and approved a $151,652 SHIP grant amendment. All other resolutions were approved unanimously.

• Approved revised COVID-19 employee protocol/response plan (4-1, Edwin nay)
• Approved prosecution agreement with City of Twin Lakes for petty misdemeanors and misdemeanors
• Accepted resignation of Medical Death Investigator Ryan Shea effective Nov 1, 2021
• Accepted resignation of Custodian Timothy Cibert effective Jan 5, 2022
• Approved filling vacant Custodian position
• Approved SHIP grant amendment with MN Dept of Health for $151,652
• Approved lot consolidation for Christopher and Holly Dahl
• Approved claims totaling $1,741,176.72

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners is holding a workshop to discuss a proposed COVID response: providing a 5-day COVID-only sick leave bank to employees who choose to be vaccinated and have a breakthrough positive test requiring isolation or quarantine. This is a discussion item only, not a final decision.

• Proposed 5-day COVID-only sick leave bank for vaccinated employees with breakthrough cases

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will consider several resolutions, including approving a new housing tax abatement for Richard Rocklin, revising the county employee COVID protocol/response plan, and setting the 2021 Truth in Taxation public hearing for December 9, 2021. The board will also act on personnel matters, including placing an enforcement aid on full-time status, accepting a 911 dispatcher's resignation, and filling that position. A closed session is scheduled to discuss labor negotiation strategy.

• Resolution approving new housing tax abatement for Richard Rocklin
• Resolution approving revised Freeborn County Employee COVID protocol/response plan
• Resolution setting 2021 Truth in Taxation Public Hearing for December 9, 2021 at 6pm
• Resolution placing Ivan Estupinan, Enforcement Aid, on regular full-time status
• Resolution accepting resignation of Cheyenne Lundak, 911 Dispatcher, effective October 14, 2021

The Freeborn County Board approved the consent agenda, including minutes and drainage repairs, and passed resolutions to place an employee on full-time status, accept a resignation, and fill a vacant dispatcher position. They also approved a housing tax abatement for a new home in Albert Lea, moved the December 7 meeting to November 30, set the Truth in Taxation meeting for December 9, and approved claims totaling $2,488,192.39. The board tabled the COVID protocol plan until October 19 and entered closed session for labor negotiations, later reporting tentative agreements with two unions.

• Approved consent agenda including September 21 minutes and drainage repairs (unanimous)
• Approved placing Ivan Estupinan on regular full-time status (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of 911 Dispatcher Cheyenne Lundak effective Oct 14 (unanimous)
• Approved filling vacant 911 Dispatcher position (unanimous)
• Approved housing tax abatement for Richard and Vonda Rocklin property in Albert Lea (unanimous)
• Tabled COVID protocol plan until October 19 meeting (unanimous)
• Moved December 7 meeting to November 30 (unanimous)
• Approved claims totaling $2,488,192.39 (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to consider a consent agenda, hear a presentation from MnDOT, and act on several resolutions. These include approving a biennial MFIP service agreement, accepting a resignation and filling an Assistant County Attorney position, and contracting with multiple school districts for health services. The board will also consider a lease with the state for Driver and Vehicle Services and terminating group medical coverage.

• Resolution approving 2022-2023 MFIP Biennial Service Agreement for MN Dept. of Human Services
• Resolution accepting resignation of Assistant County Attorney Holli Mayer, effective Sept. 23, 2021
• Resolution to fill Assistant County Attorney position
• Resolutions to contract with ISD #242, ISD #2886, and Hollandale Christian School for school health services
• Resolution approving lease with State of MN for Dept. of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services

The Freeborn County Board approved a preliminary 2022 tax levy of $26,551,033 and a preliminary 2022 budget of $62,429,252 in revenue and $61,856,544 in expenditures, with Commissioner Belshan voting against both. The board also approved several resolutions, including a prosecution agreement with the City of Geneva, a 5-year lease with MN DVS for an exam station, termination of the SCC Cooperative health insurance agreement, and contracts for school health services.

• Approved preliminary 2022 tax levy of $26,551,033 (4-1)
• Approved preliminary 2022 budget with $62.4M revenue and $61.9M expenditures (4-1)
• Approved prosecution agreement with City of Geneva for petty misdemeanors
• Approved 5-year lease with MN DVS for exam station office space
• Approved termination of SCC Cooperative health insurance effective Jan 1, 2022
• Approved contracts with three schools for health services
• Approved $1,564,003.82 in claims
• Accepted resignation of Assistant County Attorney Holli Mayer

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners is holding a workshop to review the final 2022 budget, hear a presentation on 2022 insurance rates and a joint workplace clinic with District 241, discuss ARP (American Rescue Plan) planning, and receive updates from the Highway Department and Sheriff's Office. The agenda is a mix of budget, insurance, and planning items, with no formal votes scheduled.

• Final 2022 budget review and discussion
• National Insurance Services (NIS) presentation on 2022 insurance rates and recommendations
• Joint Workplace Clinic with District 241 presentation
• ARP (American Rescue Plan) planning
• Highway Dept: MnDOT District 6 Planning and Construction Program Updates; Sheriff: Line 3 update

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will consider a consent agenda, new business, and several resolutions including drainage repairs, a building addition, and prosecution agreements with two cities. They will also hear a report on a November 2020 active shooter incident and an update on staff telecommuting.

• Resolution approving extension from BWSR to December 31, 2026
• Resolution granting DeVries Welding and Implement a 24' addition and new 48' x 50' pole building
• Agreements for prosecution of petty misdemeanors in Hartland and Conger
• Resolution accepting bid for County Ditch 23 repair
• Amended Joint Powers Agreement with Rural Minnesota Energy Board

The Freeborn County Board approved a consent agenda, a 2022-2026 Comprehensive Water Plan extension request, amendments to a special use permit, prosecution agreements with Hartland and Conger, a ditch repair contract, a joint powers agreement amendment, and claims totaling $2,780,005.42. All votes were unanimous as recorded.

• Approved consent agenda including August 17 minutes and drainage repairs (unanimous)
• Approved resolution requesting water plan extension to 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Special Use Permit #17 for DeVries Welding (unanimous)
• Approved prosecution agreement with City of Hartland (unanimous)
• Approved prosecution agreement with City of Conger (unanimous)
• Awarded County Ditch 23 repair contract to Olson Excavating for $75,164.71 (unanimous)
• Approved amended Joint Powers Agreement with Rural Minnesota Energy Board (unanimous)
• Approved claims totaling $2,780,005.42 (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to consider a consent agenda, new business, and reports from various departments. Key items include resolutions on property sales to the City of Albert Lea, a contract for election services, a final payment for a road project, and a letter of support for a solar project. The meeting is open to the public and will be live streamed.

• Resolution amending sale price of blighted parcels to City of Albert Lea (Parcels 34.049.0320, 34.033.0080, 34.118.0181)
• Resolution approving sale of public use property to City of Albert Lea
• Resolution accepting contract with School District #241 for Election Services
• Resolution approving final payment of $170,835.28 to Freeborn County Coop Oil for CP 021-M-004
• Resolution amending site plan for Conditional Use Permit #316 with Don Yost of Nunda Township

The Freeborn County Board approved several resolutions, including the sale of tax-forfeited parcels to the City of Albert Lea at reduced prices to address blight, and the sale of public use property for authorized public purposes. The board also approved contracts for election services with Albert Lea Schools, prosecution agreements with the cities of Myrtle and Hollandale, a University of Minnesota Extension agreement, a SELCO library services agreement, and a final payment for road work. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved sale of blighted tax-forfeited parcels to City of Albert Lea at reduced prices (5-0)
• Approved sale of public use property to City of Albert Lea (5-0)
• Approved election services contract with Independent School District 241 for $3,500 (5-0)
• Authorized final payment of $170,835.28 for magnesium chloride road work (5-0)
• Amended site plan for Conditional Use Permit #316 to relocate 30,000-gallon propane tank (5-0)
• Approved prosecution agreements with cities of Myrtle and Hollandale (5-0)
• Approved University of Minnesota Extension agreement and addendum (5-0)
• Approved SELCO library services agreement (5-0)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is conducting a scheduled workshop to discuss the 2022 budget. Discussions include outside agency requests, staffing for the County Attorney and Transportation departments, and capital improvements.

• Outside agency requests
• County Attorney and Transportation staffing discussion
• Capital Improvements, Fairgrounds, Trail funding, and ARP planning
• 2022 budget recap, Health Insurance, and Levy discussion

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to consider routine approvals, including the consent agenda, and hold a public hearing on the engineer's report for repairing County Ditch 23. They will also receive the annual report from the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation and act on several resolutions, including accepting a resignation and setting sheriff salaries.

• Public hearing on Engineer's Report for repair of County Ditch 23
• Resolution accepting resignation of Child Protection Social Worker Melissa Schreiber
• Resolution to fill Child Protection Social Worker position
• Resolution approving Lot Consolidation Agreement for Dak and Lydia Sorenson
• Resolutions setting 2019, 2020, and 2021 salaries for Freeborn County Sheriff

The Freeborn County Board approved resolutions setting the sheriff's salary for 2019, 2020, and 2021 at $113,952, $114,521.76, and $119,228.60 respectively, following a Minnesota Court of Appeals ruling. The board also approved a consent agenda, a drainage repair for County Ditch #23, a lot consolidation, a grant for veterans services, and claims totaling $1,181,073.83. All decisions were approved unanimously.

• Approved consent agenda including July 20 minutes and drainage repairs (unanimous)
• Approved County Ditch #23 repair and contract award (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Social Worker Melissa Schreiber (unanimous)
• Approved filling the Social Worker/Case Manager position (unanimous)
• Approved lot consolidation for Dak and Lydia Sorenson (unanimous)
• Accepted Veterans Service Office Operation Enhancement Grant FY2022 (unanimous)
• Set sheriff's salary for 2019 at $113,952 (unanimous)
• Set sheriff's salary for 2020 at $114,521.76 and 2021 at $119,228.60 (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners is holding the second of three 2022 budget workshops, with department heads presenting their budget requests. The agenda is a schedule of presentations from Public Health, Environmental Services, Maintenance, IT, Auditor, and DHS, followed by a staff appreciation lunch. No decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Public Health budget presentation
• Environmental Services budget presentation
• Maintenance budget presentation
• IT budget presentation
• DHS budget presentation

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to consider several personnel actions, including accepting resignations and filling positions, as well as an amendment to a conditional use permit for Krown Inc. The most consequential item is a proposed increase to the wheelage tax from $10 to $20 per vehicle, which would affect all vehicle registrations in the county. The agenda also includes routine approvals of minutes, claims, and committee reports.

• Resolution to increase wheelage tax from $10 to $20 per vehicle
• Amendment to Conditional Use Permit #347 for Krown Inc. to add a 70' x 200' storage structure
• Accept donation of $750 from Cargill to Crime Victims Crisis Center
• Resignations: Ley Paw (WIC Breastfeeding Peer), Larry Lahs (Detention Deputy), Andrew Yost (Feedlot Officer/HHW Tech), David Olson (Custodian)
• Authorize amendment with SRF Consulting Group

The board approved a resolution increasing the wheelage tax from $10 to $15 per vehicle for 2022 and subsequent years, with collection by the State Registrar of Motor Vehicles. It also approved a $475,460 contract amendment for engineering services on the Bridge Avenue reconstruction project, accepted several employee resignations, and authorized legal discussions regarding the sheriff's salary court case.

• Approved wheelage tax increase to $15 per vehicle (Resolution 21-192)
• Approved $475,460 amendment with SRF Consulting for Bridge Avenue project (Resolution 21-191)
• Approved amendment to Conditional Use Permit #347 for Krown Inc. (Resolution 21-193)
• Accepted resignation of Ley Paw (WIC Breastfeeding Peer) (Resolution 21-185)
• Accepted resignation of Larry Lahs (Detention Deputy) and approved filling the position (Resolutions 21-186, 21-187)
• Accepted resignation of Andrew Yost (Feedlot Officer/HHW Tech) and approved filling the position (Resolutions 21-188, 21-189)
• Accepted resignation of David Olson (Custodian) (Resolution 21-190)
• Approved claims totaling $1,397,207.43 (Resolution 21-195)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners is holding its first of three scheduled 2022 budget workshops. Department heads will present their budget requests, including a discussion of an additional support staff position for the County Attorney's office. The workshop is a planning session, not a final decision-making meeting.

• Highway Engineer budget presentation
• Assessor budget presentation
• Recorder budget presentation
• Probation budget presentation
• County Attorney additional support staff position discussion

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve the consent agenda, hear reports from county departments, and consider several resolutions. Key items include a $4,079,581 Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) special assessment for Vortex Cold Storage, a $750 donation to the K-9 program, and multiple personnel actions. The board will also set a public hearing for a drainage repair and classify tax-forfeiture parcels for the 2021 sale.

• PACE special assessment of $4,079,581 on parcel 344350050 for Vortex Cold Storage
• Accept $750 donation from Cargill for K-9 program (line item 01-202-6414)
• Approve Joint Powers Agreements with Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension for Sheriff and Probation
• Set public hearing for Aug 3, 2021 on County Ditch 23 repair
• Classify and set prices for tax-forfeiture parcels for 2021 sale

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners approved a consent agenda, accepted a $750 donation from Cargill for the Sheriff's Office K-9 program, and approved multiple joint powers agreements with the State of Minnesota for criminal justice data network access. The board also accepted a resignation, approved filling the vacant position, and placed three employees on regular full-time status. It approved the classification and sale of tax-forfeited parcels, set a public hearing for a drainage repair petition, authorized banks as county depositories, accepted a public health grant amendment, and approved a $4,079,581 PACE special assessment for Vortex Cold Storage LLC. The board also approved claims totaling $2,670,440.82.

• Approved the consent agenda, including the June 15, 2021 minutes and drainage repairs for CD55 and CD65.
• Accepted a $750.00 donation from Cargill of Albert Lea for the Sheriff's Office K-9 line item.
• Approved State of Minnesota Joint Powers Agreements for the County Attorney, Sheriff, and Probation Services for criminal justice data network access.
• Accepted the resignation of Kathy Appel, Eligibility Worker Specialist, effective July 2, 2021, and approved filling the vacant position.
• Placed Emily Vierus, Alex Hannegrefs-Dahlen, and Joshua Hall on regular full-time employment status.
• Classified tax-forfeited parcels for the 2021 sale and set sales prices, with the sale scheduled for September 20, 2021.
• Approved a $4,079,581.00 Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) special assessment for Vortex Cold Storage LLC.
• Approved claims totaling $2,670,440.82 across all funds.

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider several departmental resolutions including updates to the county abatement policy and fiber optic placement. The meeting also includes discussions on grant agreements for public health and appointments for watershed management.

• Resolution to update the Freeborn County Abatement Policy
• Final payment for bill and bituminous surface/aggregate shoulders on CSAH 33
• Conditional Use Permit for Frontier Communications fiber optic mainline in Alden, Carlston, Manchester, and Pickeral Lake Townships
• Grant project agreement with Minnesota Department of Health Eliminating Health Disparities
• Appointment of two Shell Rock River Watershed Managers for a 3-year period

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners approved an updated Abatement Policy, delegating authority for abatements under $10,000 to the County Assessor and Auditor, with larger abatements requiring board approval. They also approved out-of-state travel for three Veterans Court Team members, a conditional use permit for Frontier Communications to install fiber optics in agricultural districts, and a grant agreement with the Minnesota Department of Health for eliminating health disparities. Additionally, they authorized final payment of $30,586.14 for road work on CSAH 33 and approved claims totaling $1,092,902.06.

• Approved the agenda as presented.
• Approved the consent agenda, including the June 1, 2021 minutes.
• Approved out-of-state travel for Lyndon Stinson, Preston Selleck, and Stephen Lansing to the NADCP conference.
• Approved the updated Freeborn County Abatement Policy, effective June 15, 2021.
• Authorized final payment of $30,586.14 to Ulland Brothers Inc. for road work on CSAH 33.
• Granted a conditional use permit to Frontier Communications for fiber optics in agricultural districts, with conditions including a $30,000 performance bond.
• Approved a grant agreement with the Minnesota Department of Health for eliminating health disparities.
• Approved a grant agreement with Freeborn County Family Services and Children’s Mental Health Collaborative.

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to consider routine approvals, hear a presentation on the 2020 county audit, and act on several resolutions including a $4,079,581 PACE special assessment for Vortex Cold Storage. The agenda includes consent items, department reports, and public comment.

• 2020 Freeborn County Audit presentation by Doug Host
• Resolution for $4,079,581 PACE special assessment on parcel 344350060 (Vortex Cold Storage)
• Resolution to sell surplus county property
• Resolutions to accept resignation and fill Social Worker/Case Manager, Detention Center Deputy, and Office Support Specialist vacancies
• Temporary on-sale liquor license for Flatlander Chapter of A.B.A.T.E.

The Freeborn County Board approved a $4,079,581 Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) special assessment on parcel 344350060 owned by Vortex Cold Storage, LLC, with a 6.20% interest rate over 20 years. The board also declared 11 surplus vehicles and trailers for sale, accepted a resignation, and approved four staff position fills. Claims totaling $2,221,998.49 were approved for payment.

• Approved PACE special assessment of $4,079,581 on Vortex Cold Storage parcel (unanimous)
• Declared 11 surplus vehicles and trailers for sale (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Social Worker Talisha Price effective June 25, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved filling Social Worker/Case Manager position (unanimous)
• Approved filling Detention Deputy position (unanimous)
• Approved filling Human Services Office Support Specialist position (unanimous)
• Authorized temporary on-sale liquor license for Flatlander Chapter of A.B.A.T.E, MN on June 26, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved claims totaling $2,221,998.49 (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet on May 18, 2021, to consider a consent agenda, recognize scholarship recipients, and act on several resolutions. Key items include authorizing deputies to travel outside a 200-mile radius for mutual aid on Enbridge Line 3 route security, approving personnel changes, accepting grants, and approving a $25,000 property sale. The meeting will be held via video conference and live streamed.

• Resolution to allow deputies to travel outside 200-mile radius for Enbridge Line 3 mutual aid
• Resolution to place Danielle Anderson on regular full-time status in Probation & Pre-Trial Services
• Resolution to accept $500 grant from Freeborn-Mower Coop
• Resolution to accept bid of $25,000 for Parcel No. 09.011.0140 (Helmers' property)
• Resolution approving joint powers agreement with MN Dept. of Agriculture for WIC Farmers' Market Nutrition Program

The Freeborn County Board approved a consent agenda, several personnel actions, and a resolution allowing deputies to travel outside 200 miles for Enbridge Line 3 mutual aid. They also amended the COVID-19 plan to drop mask requirements for fully vaccinated individuals, and approved over $1.75 million in claims.

• Approved consent agenda including May 4 minutes and drainage repairs (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 21-134 allowing deputies to travel outside 200 miles for Enbridge Line 3 mutual aid (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 21-135 placing Danielle Anderson on regular full-time status (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 21-136 to fill Highway Maintenance Laborer position (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 21-137 accepting resignation of Priscilla Chavez (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 21-138 to fill Family Based Service Provider position (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 21-141 loan of $421,182.09 from General Fund to Joint County Ditch J24 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 21-146 amending COVID-19 plan to remove mask requirements for fully vaccinated (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners is meeting to approve routine items, including minutes and drainage repairs, and to consider several resolutions. Key actions include reappointing the county engineer and surveyor for four-year terms, accepting a $500 donation to the Sheriff's office, and a proposal to open the county fairgrounds for approved activities. The meeting also covers personnel status changes, child care licensing fees, and a tax abatement request.

• Reappoint Phillip Wacholz as Freeborn County Engineer for four-year term
• Reappoint Steven J. Thompson, LS as Freeborn County Surveyor for four-year term
• Accept $500 donation to Sheriff's office
• Place Detention Deputy Alex Blaschko on regular full-time status
• Consider non-homestead tax abatement for Tracy and Sue Skaar

The Freeborn County Board approved a consent agenda including minutes and drainage repairs, accepted a $500 donation for the sheriff's office, reappointed the county engineer and surveyor, placed a detention deputy on full-time status, aligned family child care licensing fees with state statute, approved a $6,890 property tax abatement for Tracy and Sue Skaar, allowed case-by-case reopening of fairgrounds, and approved $1,227,031.06 in claims. All resolutions passed unanimously.

• Approved consent agenda including April 20 minutes and drainage repairs (unanimous)
• Accepted $500 donation to sheriff's office equipment fund (unanimous)
• Reappointed Philip Wacholz as County Engineer for 4-year term (unanimous)
• Appointed Steven J. Thompson as County Surveyor for 4-year term (unanimous)
• Placed Alex Blaschko on regular full-time status as Detention Deputy (unanimous)
• Aligned family child care licensing fees with state statute (unanimous)
• Approved $6,890 tax abatement for Tracy and Sue Skaar (unanimous)
• Approved $1,227,031.06 in claims (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to consider a consent agenda and multiple resolutions, including contracts, personnel changes, conditional use permits, and ditch repair bids. The board will also hear a presentation from the Southern Region DNR and address public comments.

• Resolution to approve contract with MN Dept. of Corrections for Sentence to Service Crew Leader
• Resolution to eliminate Training and Compliance Sergeant position in detention center
• Resolution accepting COVID-19 Vaccine Implementation and Response grant contract
• Conditional use permits for fiber optic mainline (WCTA), 26,000-bushel grain bin (Tony Mudra), and grain bin/dryer (David Malakowsky)
• Bids for County Ditch 15 Repair and Improvement and County Ditch J9 Repair

The board approved a $344,225 grant from the Minnesota Department of Health for COVID-19 vaccine implementation and response, renewed a $152,502.42 contract with the MN Department of Corrections for a Sentence to Serve crew leader, and awarded contracts for county ditch repairs. It also approved several personnel actions, conditional use permits for fiber optics and grain bins, and a 2022/2023 budget calendar.

• Approved $344,225 COVID-19 vaccine grant from MN Dept. of Health (unanimous)
• Approved $152,502.42 contract renewal with MN Dept. of Corrections for STS crew leader (unanimous)
• Awarded $160,186.18 contract to Freeborn Construction for County Ditch 15 repair (unanimous)
• Awarded $227,889.10 contract to Jensen Excavating for County Ditch J9 (unanimous)
• Approved elimination of Training and Compliance Sergeant position in Sheriff's Office (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use permit for Winnebago Cooperative Telecom fiber optics (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use permits for grain bins for Tony Mudra and David Malakowsky (unanimous)
• Approved 2022/2023 budget calendar (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners is holding a workshop to discuss several topics, including the homestead tax credit process, the 2021 county fair and grandstand, the Upper (UP) trail project, the current ICE contract and population numbers, and administrator topics. The administrator topics include the 2022 budget calendar, a capital improvement plan, a COVID vaccine update, building use by the public, and the pending $5.9 million from the American Rescue Plan Act. This is a discussion session, not a voting meeting.

• Discussion on the 2021 Freeborn County Fair and Grandstand update
• Discussion on proceeding with the UP trail, including committee members and county project lead
• Discussion on the current ICE contract, latest population, and future numbers
• Pending $5.9 million in funding from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021
• Proposed 2022 budget calendar and capital improvement 5-year plan

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve the consent agenda and consider various resolutions, including licenses, donations, personnel changes, and land-use approvals. The meeting will be held via video conferencing and live streamed.

• Resolution approving Well Sharing Agreement for Oakland Shop
• Resolution accepting $200 donation from Nunda Township for Crime Victims Crisis Center
• Resolutions accepting resignations of Detention Deputy Timothy Tappe and Detention Center Program Coordinator Heather Coombs
• Resolution approving 3.2 Beer and Wine On Sale Licenses and a 2 a.m. Closing License for Harmony Park
• Resolutions granting approvals to REG, M & M Farms, and Krown Inc. for additions including a commercial truck scale, storage structures, and a 30,000-gallon tank

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners approved a consent agenda and 20 additional resolutions, covering routine items like minutes, employee status, and claims, as well as specific actions such as supporting a $7.5 million bonding request, authorizing a well-sharing agreement, accepting donations, and granting liquor licenses and a gambling permit. The board also approved conditional use permits for REG Albert Lea, M & M Farms, and Krown Inc., and set law library fees and salaries.

• Approved consent agenda including March 16, 2021 minutes and affirmation of full-time status for promoted employees.
• Approved resolution to prepare a letter supporting the Shell Rock River bonding request for $7.5 million.
• Authorized a well-sharing agreement with Steve and Mary Vietor for the Oakland shop, with county cost participation at 25%.
• Accepted a $200 donation from Nunda Township for the Crime Victims Crisis Center.
• Accepted resignations of Detention Deputy Timothy Tappe and Program Coordinator Heather Coombs, and approved filling the deputy position.
• Granted liquor licenses to Freeborn Lake Golf Course, Harmony Park, and Hickory Hills Campground, and a gambling permit to Hickory Hills Campground.
• Approved conditional use permits for REG Albert Lea (commercial truck scale), M & M Farms (storage structure), and Krown Inc. (storage structure and tank).
• Approved law library fees ($6 civil, $5 criminal) and librarian salary of $3,000 for 2020, with Commissioner Belshan voting nay on the salary.

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will consider ending the COVID-19 Declaration of Emergency, reopening county buildings April 1, and resuming in-person board meetings April 6. The board will also act on several personnel resignations, highway construction contract awards, and a tabled resolution on deputy mutual aid for Enbridge Line 3 security.

• Resolution ending Declaration of Emergency and limited re-opening of county buildings effective April 1, 2021
• Resolution to resume in-person board meetings as of April 6, 2021
• Contract awards for CP 021-CULV-026, CP-021-M-002, CP 021-M-004, CP 021-SAND-005, SAP 024-626-021, SAP 024-633-009
• Resolution removing tabled Resolution No. 21-051 allowing deputies to assist with mutual aid for Enbridge Line 3 Route Security Detail
• Resolution approving tax abatement program for City of Emmons and sale of County Property

The Freeborn County Board approved multiple highway construction contracts, including a $2.07 million road project on CSAH 26, and accepted several resignations and authorized filling those positions. The board also terminated the local COVID-19 state of emergency and approved a COVID-19 preparedness plan for reopening county buildings. A resolution to resume in-person board meetings failed for lack of action.

• Approved $2,066,577.79 road project on CSAH 26 (SAP 024-626-021)
• Approved $598,855.05 mill and overlay project on CSAH 33 (SAP 024-633-009)
• Approved $196,037.32 culvert replacement on CSAH 26 (CP 021-CULV-026)
• Approved $147,515.39 pavement marking contract (CP 021-M-002)
• Approved $171,538.40 base stabilization contract (CP 021-M-004)
• Approved $10.20/ton washed sand for ice control (CP 021-SAND-005)
• Terminated local COVID-19 state of emergency (Resolution 21-083)
• Approved COVID-19 Preparedness Plan for reopening (Resolution 21-084)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners is holding a workshop to discuss general ditch inspector items, highway projects including school speed zones and the East Main Street project, and administrative topics such as the Emmons property tax abatement, board assignments, a DVS discussion, and an ICE contract update. The board will also discuss environmental services location, symbolic resolutions policy, reopening county buildings, and in-person meetings. The meeting concludes with a courthouse tour.

• Emmons property tax abatement
• ICE contract update/discussion
• School Speed Zones discussion
• East Main Street project discussion
• Re-opening of county buildings

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet via video conference to approve a consent agenda, hear reports, and consider several resolutions. New business includes presenting the 2021 Rose Olmsted Advocacy Award. The board will also consider purchasing tandem dump truck items and placing a building and groundskeeper on regular full-time status.

• Consider resolution to purchase certain tandem dump truck items
• Consider resolution to place Joshua Hanson, Building and Groundskeeper, on regular full-time status
• Affirmation of full time status for promoted employees
• Approval of Drainage Repairs
• Presentation of 2021 Rose Olmsted Advocacy Award to Mary Jo Jensen of Albert Lea

The Freeborn County Board approved a consent agenda, authorized the replacement of three tandem axle dump trucks with snow plow equipment at an approximate cost of $720,000 after trade-ins, placed Joshua Hanson on regular full-time status, and approved claims totaling $1,570,870.69. The board also heard public comment from Emmons Mayor Paul Henschel about a tax abatement issue, which was scheduled for the next workshop.

• Approved the agenda as presented.
• Approved the consent agenda, including minutes from February 16, 2021, affirmation of full-time status for promoted employees, and drainage repairs.
• Authorized the Highway Engineer to order replacement tandem axle dump trucks with snow plow equipment at an approximate cost of $720,000 after trade-ins, with no bills due until summer 2022.
• Placed Joshua Hanson, Maintenance Building and Grounds, on regular full-time employment status.
• Approved claims totaling $1,570,870.69 across multiple funds, including 55 claims not exceeding $300 each.

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve the consent agenda, hear a presentation on the Hayward Solar Energy Project, and consider various resolutions including personnel changes, contracts, and agreements. The meeting is held via video conference and live streamed.

• Presentation on Hayward Solar Energy Project
• Resolution to accept resignation of Richard Walther, Child Support Officer
• Resolution to approve Contract Amendment with UCare
• Resolution authorizing loans from General Fund to Ditches with shortages for 2020
• Resolution to allow deputies to travel outside 200-mile radius for Enbridge Line 3 security

The board approved a series of routine resolutions including accepting resignations, filling positions, granting tobacco licenses, and approving claims totaling $1,445,810.24. A motion to table the University of Minnesota geologic atlas agreement failed, and the agreement was subsequently approved. The board also established the improvement to County Ditch 15 after a continued hearing.

• Approved consent agenda and prior meeting minutes
• Accepted resignation of Child Support Officer Richard Walther (effective Feb 25, 2021)
• Approved filling the vacant Child Support Officer position
• Placed Joseph Hunter (Social Worker CPS) and Jacob Stockwell (Truancy Officer) on regular full-time status
• Approved agreement with University of Minnesota for county geologic atlas (3-2)
• Approved $718,700 in loans from General Fund to ditches with shortages at 3% interest
• Granted tobacco licenses to 7 applicants
• Approved claims totaling $1,445,810.24

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners is holding a workshop to discuss and review several operational and financial items, including the 2020 cash basis budget, the 2021 county roads project, and the 2022 budget process. The board will also hear updates on the Highway 65 project, a geologic atlas, and the Sheriff's Office's mutual aid assistance for the Line 3 pipeline. Administration items include a tax abatement housing program in Emmons, the sale of a fire-destroyed property, and a discussion on resuming in-person board meetings.

• Review of 2020 cash basis budget and cash fund balances
• 2021 county roads project and Highway 65 project update
• Tax abatement housing program in Emmons
• Sale of Helmers property destroyed by fire
• Sheriff's Office Line 3 mutual aid assistance

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve the consent agenda and consider several resolutions, including a $1,000,000 PACE special assessment on a specific parcel, a $500 donation, and participation in a state performance measurement program. The meeting is largely procedural, with most items being routine approvals.

• Resolution approving PACE special assessments on Freeborn County Parcel 341630030 in the amount of $1,000,000.00
• Resolution accepting a $500.00 donation from Jennifer Vogt-Erickson and Jeshua Erickson for CVCC
• Resolution to fill a Mental Health Office Support Specialist position at DHS
• Resolution to ratify MnCCC Amendment for property tax maintenance and support agreement with Avenue fka Conduent
• Resolution to participate in the 2021 State of MN Performance Measurement Program

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will hold a final hearing on a petition to improve County Ditch #15, along with routine approvals of the consent agenda, drainage repairs, and various resolutions. The meeting is conducted via video conference and live streamed.

• Final hearing on petition for improvement to Freeborn County Ditch #15
• Resolution accepting Rinke Noonan 2021 legal services for Drainage Authority
• Resolution setting 2021 crop damage rates (not planted and standing crop) for drainage ditches
• Resolution for wine on-sale license for Three Oak Vineyards & Winery, Bancroft Township
• Resolution approving purchase of service agreement between Freeborn County Human Services and Brian Vold

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners approved several resolutions, including setting 2021 crop damage rates for county drainage ditches, granting a liquor license to Three Oak Vineyards & Winery, and making annual board appointments to various committees. The board also approved a redetermination of benefits for County Ditch #15 and continued its final hearing to February 16, 2021, to allow landowners to discuss possible amendments. All votes were unanimous unless otherwise noted.

• Approved 2021 crop damage rates: $400/acre not planted, $756/acre corn, $570/acre beans
• Granted on-sale wine license to Three Oak Vineyards & Winery, Bancroft Township
• Approved 2021 legal services agreement with Rinke Noonan for Drainage Authority
• Approved redetermination of benefits for County Ditch #15
• Continued final hearing on County Ditch #15 improvement to Feb 16, 2021
• Approved annual board appointments to committees and organizations
• Approved $1,162,983.74 in claims across all funds
• Approved Joint Powers Agreement with Albert Lea HRA for Minnesota Housing program

Board of County Commissioners

This is a workshop agenda, not a voting meeting. The board will receive an overview of ditch authority and hold a Q&A with Kurt Deter, the ditch inspector, and the Rinke Noonan Law Firm, followed by general updates and board assignments. No formal decisions are scheduled.

• Ditch Authority overview and Q&A with Kurt Deter and Rinke Noonan Law Firm
• General updates and board assignments from Administration

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners met in a workshop via Zoom on January 12, 2021. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational. Attorney Kurt Deter discussed drainage ditch law and the board's role as the Drainage Authority, and Public Health Director Sue Yost provided updates on COVID-19 numbers and vaccine plans. Administrator Jensen reported on the license center reopening, a proposed Tetra Tech solar array, COVID business relief, a tax abatement request from the City of Emmons, the Rose Olmsted Advocacy Award, and a recent 911 outage.

• No formal decisions were made; the workshop was informational only
• Heard presentation from Attorney Kurt Deter on drainage ditch law and Drainage Authority duties
• Received COVID-19 update from Public Health Director Sue Yost on numbers and vaccine plans
• Discussed reopening of the license center
• Discussed Tetra Tech solar array proposal
• Discussed second round COVID business relief; selection committee appointment deferred to next meeting
• Discussed City of Emmons property tax abatement request
• Discussed annual Rose Olmsted Advocacy Award and recent 911 outage

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will hold its first 2021 meeting, introducing three new commissioners and electing a chair and vice-chair. The board will consider several resolutions, including adopting Robert's Rules, approving the consent agenda, and various administrative and departmental items. The meeting is largely procedural, with routine approvals and appointments.

• Election of 2021 Board Chairman and Vice-Chairman
• Resolution adopting Robert's Rules of Order for 2021
• Resolution to place Philip Wacholz as County Engineer/Public Works Director on regular full-time status
• Resolution to accept $300 donation from Glenville Round Prairie Lutheran Church Women for CVCC
• Resolution appointing Harry Nyenhuis to Freeborn County Extension Services Advisory Board (3-year term)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting solely to swear in newly elected commissioners John Forman, Ted Herman, and Brad Edwin. No other business is on the agenda.

• Swearing in of Commissioner Elect John Forman
• Swearing in of Commissioner Elect Ted Herman
• Swearing in of Commissioner Elect Brad Edwin