Freeborn County public meetings in 2024
42 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
General
The Board of County Commissioners will meet to discuss employee compensation and staffing. The board is considering a cost of living increase and a salary update for the Chief Deputy.
- Resolution for a 3% Cost of Living increase for 2025 for all non-union employees
- Resolution to extend a PERA Pro position for the Sheriff's Office
- Resolution to approve the Chief Deputy's salary for 2025
The Freeborn County Board approved a 3% cost-of-living adjustment to the wage scale for all non-union employees, effective the first payroll in January 2025. They also approved a phased retirement agreement for Mary Seltun through December 31, 2024, set the 2025 Chief Deputy salary at Grade 22, Step 8, and approved claims totaling $931,565.28. Commissioner Shoff was absent.
- Adopted 3% COLA wage adjustment for non-union employees (approved)
- Approved PERA PRO phased retirement agreement for Mary Seltun through Dec 31, 2024
- Set 2025 Chief Deputy salary at Grade 22, Step 8 (3-1, Kaasa nay)
- Approved claims totaling $931,565.28
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of County Commissioners is holding a special meeting to conduct interviews. The board will deliberate and consider a motion to offer the position of Freeborn County Administrator.
- Interviews for Freeborn County Administrator
The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners met and approved the agenda. They conducted interviews with four candidates for a county position and entered closed session to discuss the candidates and next steps. No final hiring decision was made during this meeting.
- Approved meeting agenda as presented
- Conducted interviews with Melanie Aeschliman, CJ Holl, Kyle Harris, and David Stiernagle
- Approved closed session under Minn. Stat. § 13D.03 to discuss candidates
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of County Commissioners will consider the 2025 County Budget and final tax levy. The meeting includes a public hearing on the county fee schedule and resolutions regarding cannabis business regulations.
- Public hearing and resolution for a revised Freeborn County Fee Schedule
- Resolutions to amend Zoning Ord. (Ch. 42) and Businesses Ord. (Ch. 8) for cannabis businesses
- Certification of the 2025 County Budget and final Tax Levy
- Union Pacific Crossing Agreement for CSAH 48 (Margaretha Avenue)
- Resolution to authorize housing tax abatement for new single-family home construction
The Freeborn County Board approved the final 2025 tax levy of $28,490,545 and a $75,792,272 budget, along with a revised fee schedule and several grants and contracts. The board also tabled cannabis business zoning and registration ordinances, and set a special meeting for December 27 to consider the chief deputy salary.
- Approved final 2025 tax levy of $28,490,545
- Approved final 2025 budget of $75,792,272
- Approved revised county fee schedule
- Approved Cannabis and Substance Use Prevention Grant with MDH
- Approved Opioid Settlement RFP application form
- Tabled cannabis business zoning and registration ordinances
- Set public hearing for housing tax abatements on Jan 21, 2025
- Approved $1,480,627.15 in claims
General
The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will conduct a public hearing on December 5, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. The hearing will discuss the proposed tax levy for calendar year 2025. It will also review the county's annual operating budget for 2025.
- Public hearing on proposed 2025 tax levy
- Public hearing on 2025 annual operating budget
Board of County Commissioners
The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve resolutions for contracts, tax abatements, and personnel matters, including the resignation of an Assistant County Attorney and the hiring of a new one.
- Approval of U of M Extension 2025-2027 Memorandum of Agreement
- Resolution to approve Grant Contract Agreement Amendment with Minnesota Department of Human Services
- Resolution to approve 2025 Solid Waste Recycling Fee
- Resolution to accept resignation of Gregory Jones, Assistant County Attorney
- Resolution to set Public Hearing regarding 2025 Freeborn County Fee Schedule
The Board of Commissioners approved the 2024 County Attorney salary at $148,000 and the 2025 County Sheriff salary at $145,000. Commissioners also approved several personnel replacements, authorized final payments for highway projects, and tabled a decision on 2025 solid waste fees until December 17. Additionally, the Board accepted a $57,266 grant amendment for child and teen health outreach.
- Approved 2024 County Attorney salary at $148,000 (3-1)
- Approved 2025 County Sheriff salary at $145,000 (Approved)
- Tabled 2025 solid waste fees to Dec 17 (Approved)
- Approved $57,266 grant for child/teen health outreach (Approved)
- Approved final highway project payments of $210,599.08 and $57,564.79 (Approved)
- Approved filling four vacant county staff positions (Approved)
- Approved $1,748,848.66 in total claims (Approved)
- Set public hearing for fee schedule on Dec 17 (Approved)
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of County Commissioners is holding a workshop to discuss facility upgrades, budget reviews, and service agreements. Key topics include a solar panel installation project and the Opioid Settlement RFP process.
- Solar project with APEX Facility Solutions for Government Center, Human Services, Highway shop, and Environmental Services
- Opioid Settlement RFP process and application review
- Purchase of Service Agreement CMMHC for Detox & Withdrawal Management
- 2024 write-off of uncollectible accounts
- Discussion on 2025 County Commissioner compensation
Board of County Commissioners
The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will act on a consent agenda and consider several resolutions. Items include granting two liquor licenses to Three Oak Wines, approving final payments for three public works SAP projects, and authorizing the purchase of two sheriff's office vehicles. Additional resolutions cover out-of-state travel for a commissioner and personnel changes at the detention center.
- Grant wine license to Three Oak Wines in Bancroft Township
- Grant 3.2% beer license to Three Oak Wines in Bancoft Township
- Authorize final payment for SAP 024-608-007 (low SAP)
- Authorize purchase of 2 vehicles for the Sheriff’s Office
- Approve out-of-state travel for Commissioner Eckstrom to Germany for Sustainable Materials and Solid Waste Exchange
The Freeborn County Board approved a consent agenda, liquor licenses for Three Oak Wines, two MDH public health grant agreements totaling $408,156, final payments for three road/bridge projects, purchase of two Dodge Durango squad cars, out-of-state travel for staff and Commissioner Eckstrom, and accepted resignations and approved filling vacancies in the Detention Center and Human Services. The board also approved $1,926,590.33 in claims. All votes were unanimous or with abstentions as noted.
- Approved consent agenda including Nov 5 minutes, full-time status employees, drainage repairs
- Granted liquor licenses to Three Oak Wines (wine with strong beer, and 3.2 beer)
- Approved MDH Master Grant Agreement and LPH/FPHR grant contract totaling $408,156
- Authorized final payments: $459,822.65 (CSAH 8/29), $15,891.77 (CSAH 24), $52,866.96 (Bridge 24555)
- Approved purchase of two 2025 Dodge Durangos for Sheriff's Office ($87,458)
- Approved out-of-state travel for Finance Manager and Human Services Fiscal Supervisor to GFOA conference
- Accepted resignations of Detention Deputy Chelsea Adams and Detention Center Assistant Administrator Tavis Bolinger; approved filling both positions plus Lead Eligibility Worker
- Approved out-of-state travel for Commissioner Eckstrom to Germany (4-0, Eckstrom abstained)
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of County Commissioners will hold a workshop to discuss budget updates and personnel matters. Topics include the appointment of an interim county assessor and updates to the employee manual regarding cannabis use. The body will also review project completions and department requests.
- Discussion on appointment of Interim County Assessor
- Purchase of 2 squad cars
- Solar Project for Government Center, DHS, Highway Shop, and Environmental Services
- Employee/Personnel Manual updates regarding cannabis use
- Master Grant Agreement and Substance Use Prevention Grant with MDH
Board of County Commissioners
The Freeborn County Board will consider a consent agenda that includes approval of the October 15 minutes and drainage ditch repairs. Commissioners will hear a presentation from Midco and consider a joint agreement with Albert Lea Housing and Redevelopement Authority. Several resolutions will be voted on, including a contract with Vanguard Appraisals, Inc. and payments for county projects.
- Approval of minutes from the October 15th Board meeting (consent agenda)
- Approval of drainage ditch repairs (consent agenda)
- Resolution approving an annual maintenance contract with Vanguard Appraisals, Inc.
- Resolution to approve the joint agreement between Freeborn County and Albert Lea Housing and Redevelopement Authority
- Resolution to authorize final payment of Fairgrounds Restroom and Shade Structure CP 023-FRG-996
The Board of Commissioners approved several service contracts, grant agreements, and final payments for county projects. Commissioners also tabled a joint powers agreement with the Albert Lea Housing and Redevelopment Authority and rejected a pending litigation settlement offer following a closed session.
- Tabled Resolution 24-290 regarding Minnesota Housing joint agreement
- Approved contract with Vanguard Appraisals for property valuations
- Approved 2025 Children’s Mental Health Screening Grant contract
- Approved 2025 psychiatry services agreement with SCCBI
- Approved final payment of $4,954.63 to APX Construction Group
- Approved sale of surplus county property via MinnBid
- Approved final payment of $195,310.29 to KAMCO Inc
- Rejected pending litigation settlement offer
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of County Commissioners will consider a resolution to approve an annual maintenance contract with Vanguard Appraisals, Inc. They will also discuss and review the interim County Administrator contract and agreement. Both items are scheduled for discussion during the November 4, 2024 meeting.
- Resolution to approve annual maintenance contract with Vanguard Appraisals, Inc.
- Discussion and review of interim County Administrator contract/agreement
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of County Commissioners will consider appointments for an Interim County Administrator and a new County Assessor. The meeting includes decisions on IT contract renewals and a conditional use permit for a feedlot. The board will also set 2025 payable ditch assessments.
- Conditional Use Permit #413 for a 240-animal unit feedlot in Freeborn Township
- Renewal of Arctic Wolf and Softchoice IT contracts
- Resolution setting 2025 payable Ditch Assessments
- Appointment of Chelsea Barrett as County Board Clerk
- Cooperative Agreement for funding with the State of Minnesota for Probation
The Freeborn County Board approved 2025 ditch assessments totaling $972,000 across dozens of county and judicial ditches, payable in one installment with real estate taxes. The board also granted a conditional use permit for an 80,000-chicken feedlot, accepted several resignations and approved filling vacancies, renewed software contracts, and appointed Darrell Pettis as Interim County Administrator. All votes were unanimous unless noted.
- Approved 2025 ditch assessments totaling $972,000 (Resolution 24-270)
- Granted conditional use permit to David Schultz for 80,000-laying-chicken feedlot (Resolution 24-276)
- Appointed Darrell Pettis as Interim County Administrator (3-2, Eckstrom, Forman, Edwin yay; Shoff, Kaasa nay)
- Accepted resignation of County Assessor Candice Lahann effective Oct 16, 2024 (Resolution 24-277)
- Approved filling vacant County Assessor position (Resolution 24-278)
- Approved contract renewal with Arctic Wolf through Oct 2025 (Resolution 24-273)
- Approved contract renewal with Softchoice through Aug 2027 (Resolution 24-274)
- Approved claims totaling $1,760,066 (Resolution 24-288)
Board of County Commissioners
The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will hold a workshop to discuss the county administrator search, review a proposed contract renewal for IT services, and review budget and levy figures for 2025.
- Review of Softchoice and Arctic Wolf IT contract renewal options
- Discussion on 2025 preliminary budget and levy
- Review of Budget to Actual financial data
- Consideration of Oakland Sanitary District loan request
- Introduction of candidates for Interim County Administrator
Board of County Commissioners
The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will act on several consent agenda items, including minutes, employee status, and drainage ditch repairs, without discussion. Commissioners will hear a continued petition for diversion of CD 55 and consider resolutions to approve a health grant contract and to purchase highway department motor graders. A $20 donation to the county K‑9 program will also be considered.
- Approval of Minutes from the September 17th, 2024 Board Meeting
- Approval of Drainage Ditch Repairs
- Continued Hearing on Petition for Diversion of CD 55
- Resolution to approve Grant Contract Agreement with Minnesota Department of Health for Children and Youth with Special Health Needs Follow‑Up
- Resolution approving Purchase of Highway Department Motor Graders
The Board approved the purchase of two replacement motor graders for approximately $710,000 to maintain county roads. They also authorized payment of $2,400,851.99 in various county claims and dismissed a petition to divert Ditch No. 55. Additionally, the Board accepted the resignation of an Eligibility Worker Specialist and approved filling the vacant position.
- Approved purchase of two motor graders for approx. $710,000
- Approved payment of $2,400,851.99 in county claims
- Dismissed petition to divert Ditch No. 55 drainage waters
- Approved grant contract amendment for Children with Special Health Care Needs
- Adopted resolution proclaiming October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month
- Accepted resignation of Kelli Tiegs, Eligibility Worker Specialist
- Approved filling the vacant Eligibility Worker Specialist position
- Accepted $20 donation for Sheriff's Office K-9 fund
Board of County Commissioners
The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will hold a workshop to discuss options for an interim administrator and the process for a permanent administrator search. Commissioner Edwin will attend via Zoom from South Carolina.
- Discuss Interim Administrator Options
- Discuss Administrator Search
- Commissioner Edwin attending via Zoom
- Workshop at Freeborn County Government Center
- Attendees include Department Heads and Elected Officials
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of County Commissioners will review the 2025 preliminary budget and tax levy. The meeting includes decisions on staffing, grant agreements, and the resignation of the County Administrator.
- 2025 Preliminary Budget and Preliminary Tax Levy
- Grant Contract Agreement with Minnesota Department of Health for Maternal Child Health
- Acceptance of the MN TZD Grant
- Resignation of County Administrator Ryan Rasmusson
- Sale of a Sheriff's Office squad car
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of County Commissioners is meeting for a workshop to discuss the 2025 preliminary budget and a proposal to create a full-time Public Health Planner position. This role would be funded by a Minnesota Department of Health grant to improve local public health infrastructure.
- Proposed resolution to approve a full-time Public Health Planner position (1.0 FTE)
- Discussion of 2025 Preliminary Budget
- Review of 2024 County Fair Summary
- Discussion on disposal/storage of wind turbine blades and solar panels
- Discussion on CO2/Carbon Capture Pipeline
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of County Commissioners will meet to discuss infrastructure agreements and healthcare updates. The session includes reports from the Sheriff's Office and Public Works. The board will also hear from the Small Business Administration and Community Health Care.
- Funding Participation and Construction Agreement with Oakland Township for Bridge L0389
- Resolution regarding a letter to Mayo Clinic Health Systems about healthcare updates
- Out-of-state travel for three employees for Turnkey Corrections Training in River Falls, WI
- Acceptance of a donation for the K-9 program
- Approval of drainage ditch repairs
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding an amendment to Chapter 18 of the Code of Ordinances. The agenda also includes appointments for Shell Rock River Watershed Managers and updates to the Zoning Ordinance. Additionally, the board will address staff resignations and service agreements.
- Public hearing for proposed amendment to Chapter 18 of the Code of Ordinances
- Appointment of two Shell Rock River Watershed Managers
- Amendment to Zoning Ordinance regarding conditional use in 'A' Agriculture Districts
- Purchase of services agreement with Southern MN Guardianship Services for 2024-2025
- Resolution declaring the existence and sale of surplus county property
Board of County Commissioners
The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners is holding an emergency meeting on June 25, 2024. The board will consider a resolution declaring a local state of emergency due to severe storm and flooding conditions.
- Resolution declaring a local state of emergency due to severe storm and flooding
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding a revised County Fee Schedule. The board will also consider providing Statewide Affordable Housing Aid Funds to RCIL Land Holdings, LLC.
- Public hearing for a revised County Fee Schedule
- Statewide Affordable Housing Aid Funds for RCIL Land Holdings, LLC
- Establishment of an Absentee, UOCAVA and Mail Ballot Board for 2024
- $100 donation from Innovance, Inc. to the Sheriff’s K-9 Program
- Approval of drainage ditch repairs
Board of County Commissioners
The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will hold a workshop to discuss a proposed ordinance amendment regarding Rural Event Venues. The agenda also includes candidate presentations for Shell Rock River Watershed Board of Managers appointments and discussions on the travel and expenditures budget.
- Proposed ordinance amendment for Rural Event Venues
- Candidate presentations for Shell Rock River Watershed Board of Managers appointments
- Discussion on Travel & Expenditures budget
- Discussion on sharing of information
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will hold a workshop to review agency appropriation requests and discuss the county budget. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding statewide affordable housing aid funding for Albert Lea Family Housing, LP.
- Agency appropriation requests from various organizations
- Review of Freeborn County Comprehensive Plan
- County budget discussion
- Discussion on Statewide Affordable Housing Aid Funding to Albert Lea Family Housing, LP
Board of County Commissioners
The Board will consider a contract for masonry restoration at the Human Services Building and discuss an interim zoning ordinance and cannabis moratorium. Personnel matters include the resignation of a Detention Center Deputy and a performance review for the County Administrator. The meeting also includes approval of drainage ditch repairs.
- Contract award for Human Services Building Masonry Restoration
- Public hearing on July 2, 2024, regarding cannabis moratorium and interim zoning
- Resignation of Detention Center Deputy Eric Parker, effective June 16, 2024
- Closed session to evaluate County Administrator Ryan Rasmusson
- Approval of drainage ditch repairs
The Board approved a resolution to study and draft an interim ordinance regulating cannabis businesses, with a public hearing scheduled for July 2, 2024. They also awarded a $94,856 base bid contract for masonry restoration at the Human Services Building, with a total project budget capped at $144,856. Additionally, the Board approved $933,837.22 in claims, accepted two deputy resignations while authorizing the filling of those vacancies, and adopted a new policy limiting the types of resolutions and proclamations the Board will issue.
- Approved interim cannabis ordinance study and draft (Resolution 24-167)
- Awarded $94,856 masonry restoration contract to Restoration Systems of Chaska (Resolution 24-161)
- Approved $933,837.22 in county claims for payment (Resolution 24-168)
- Adopted policy restricting Board resolutions and proclamations (Resolution 24-166)
- Accepted resignation of Detention Center Deputy Eric Parker (Resolution 24-163)
- Approved filling vacant Detention Center Deputy positions (Resolutions 24-164, 24-165)
- Approved out-of-state travel for child protection worker (Resolution 24-162)
- Scheduled Board Workshop for June 18, 2024
Board of County Commissioners
The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will consider several resolutions including a land sale and a conditional use permit. The board will also discuss affordable housing aid and a potential public hearing on county fees.
- Sale of blighted parcel 21.015.0030 to the City of Alden
- Conditional Use Permit for Northern Natural Gas Company in Manchester Township Section 13
- Statewide Affordable Housing Aid for the Albert Lea Family Housing, LP Project
- Proposed public hearing for revisions to the County fee schedule
- Acceptance of $10 cash donation for the Freeborn County Next Step Clubhouse
The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners approved the consent agenda, established change funds and petty cash funds for various departments, and amended the tax-forfeited sale price of blighted property for the City of Alden. The board also agreed to participate in the 2024 State Performance Measurement Program, granted a conditional use permit to Northern Natural Gas Company, and accepted a $10 cash donation for the Next Step Clubhouse. Additionally, the board scheduled a public hearing for county fee schedule revisions and approved claims totaling $1,096,542.24.
- Approved agenda with one item removed and one item added regarding Statewide Affordable Housing Aid (motion carried)
- Approved consent agenda including May 7, 2024 minutes and drainage repairs (Resolution 24-153)
- Appropriated $2,715.00 for departmental change funds, $500.00 for petty cash, and $100.00 for sheriff petty cash (Resolution 24-154)
- Amended tax-forfeited sale price of blighted property for the City of Alden (Resolution 24-155)
- Approved participation in the 2024 State of Minnesota Performance Measurement Program (Resolution 24-156)
- Granted a conditional use permit to Northern Natural Gas Company for a new in-line inspection facility (Resolution #24-157)
- Accepted $10 in cash donations for the Freeborn County Next Step Clubhouse (Resolution 24-158)
- Scheduled a public hearing regarding county fee schedule revisions for June 18, 2024 at 8:45 a.m. (motion carried)
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners is meeting for a workshop to discuss the county budget and broadband updates. The session includes a review of the Albert Lea Library's annual report and a proposal for a new Public Health Planner position. Members will also discuss the use of Affordable Housing Aid for a project in Albert Lea.
- Sale of Tax Forfeited Property at 308 Main St. W., Alden (Parcel 21.015.0030)
- Proposal for a new Public Health Planner position via Foundational Public Health Responsibilities Grant
- Use of Affordable Housing Aid for a potential Albert Lea housing project
- Budget discussion with Finance Manager Pat Paquin
- Albert Lea Library Annual Report
Board of County Commissioners
The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss infrastructure projects and personnel appointments. The board is considering resolutions for bridge replacements and a joint reconstruction project with the City of Albert Lea.
- Cost participation with City of Albert Lea for Sibley Street and Marshall Street Reconstruction Project (CP 024-GBB-022)
- Grant agreement and contract award for Local Bridge Replacement Program (SAP 024-598-019)
- Purchase of a Sign Maintenance Truck
- Appointment of Heather Bagley as County Recorder
- Approval of revised Freeborn County Abatement Policy
The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners approved a $1,034,088.00 low bid from ICON Constructors, LLC to build Bridge 24555 on CR 60 west of Emmons, along with an $816,695.00 state grant agreement for the project. The board also approved a revised county abatement policy, cost participation of $395,498.16 with Albert Lea for the Sibley and Marshal Street reconstruction, a $340,691 sign truck purchase, and $1,939,617.99 in claims. Several personnel actions were approved, including appointing Heather Bagley as County Recorder and filling vacant positions. Commissioner Kaasa was absent; no public comment was offered.
- Approved low bid of $1,034,088.00 from ICON Constructors, LLC for Bridge 24555 (SAP 024-598-019)
- Approved $816,695.00 Local Bridge Replacement Program grant agreement for the bridge project
- Adopted revised Freeborn County Abatement Policy (Resolution 24-139)
- Approved $395,498.16 county cost participation with Albert Lea for Sibley/Marshal Street reconstruction
- Approved purchase of sign maintenance truck for approximately $340,691
- Approved $1,939,617.99 in claims to be paid on or before May 10, 2024
- Appointed Heather Bagley as Freeborn County Recorder
- Approved filling vacant positions: Office Support Specialist Sr., Office Support Specialist – Mental Health, Deputy Recorder, and Eligibility Worker; accepted resignations of Angie Balsley and Rebecca Zuniga
Board of County Commissioners
The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will review several land use permits and property acquisitions. The board is also considering the acceptance of $100,000 in training grants for the Sheriff's Office and a road improvement agreement with Bancroft Township.
- Two MN Intensive Comprehensive Peace Officer Education and Training Program grants of $50,000 each
- Conditional Use Permit #410 for Brandon Evans in Albert Lea Township
- Expansion of Conditional Use Permit #405 for Ulland Brothers, Inc. in Bancroft Township
- Agreement with Bancroft Township to improve 245th Street between CSAH 22 and CSAH 45
- Liquor licenses for Freeborn Lake Golf Course and Hickory Hills Campground
The Board accepted two $50,000 grants to recruit and train new Deputy Sheriffs. Other actions included granting a conditional use permit for a home occupation and approving a solar energy feasibility study.
- Accepted two $50,000 ICPOET grants for peace officer recruitment
- Approved conditional use permit for Brandon Evans for a home occupation
- Approved Directed Engineering Study Agreement with Apex Facility Solutions, LLC for solar arrays
- Approved intergovernmental agreement with Bancroft Township for 245th Street improvements
- Granted liquor licenses to Freeborn Lake Golf Course and Hickory Hills Campground
- Approved 2023 County Feedlot Officer Annual Report
- Certified land acquisition by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for waterfowl management
- Approved $1,343,052.66 in claims across various county funds
Board of County Commissioners
This workshop agenda includes updates on drainage district benefits and tile issues. The Board will also review probation funding, human services transportation, and county administrative matters.
- Redetermination of benefits for CD35, CD 43 and CD54
- Update on the CD35 tile issue
- Additional State money allocated for Veterans Court
- Juvenile detention placement budget updates
- Discussion of Board Rules & Procedures
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will consider several resolutions regarding county staff vacancies and appointments. The agenda also includes the sale of tax forfeited parcels to Albert Lea and various department travel requests. Additionally, the board will review budget amendments and donations for CVCC.
- Sale of blighted tax forfeited parcels to the City of Albert Lea
- Appointment of Kelly Hendrickson as Auditor/Treasurer and Interim County Recorder
- Acceptance of $600 and $300 donations for CVCC
- Approval of 2023 Budget Amendments
- Resolution regarding the sale of surplus County property
The Board appointed Kelly Hendrickson as Auditor-Treasurer and approved filling vacancies for the County Recorder, Family Home Visitor, and Jail Programmer positions. The Board also approved several fund balance commitments, budget amendments, and the sale of tax-forfeited land to the City of Albert Lea.
- Appointed Kelly Hendrickson as County Auditor-Treasurer
- Approved sale of blighted tax-forfeited parcels to the City of Albert Lea
- Approved $1,293,976.98 in claims across seven funds
- Approved 2023 committed fund balances including $1.8M for Self Insurance and $1M for Broadband
- Approved 2023 budget amendments to increase Ditch Improvements and maintenance
- Authorized filling of vacant County Recorder, Family Home Visitor, and Jail Programmer positions
- Approved out-of-state travel for Sue Yost and four Veterans Court team members
- Accepted $900 in total donations for the Crime Victims Crisis Center
Board of County Commissioners
The Board will hear a presentation regarding the City of Albert Lea's referendum on recreational facilities. The agenda also includes a public hearing for County Ditch 49 Lateral B-1 and several highway construction contract awards. Additionally, the Board will consider various personnel resignations and vacancies.
- Presentation on City of Albert Lea Recreational Facilities referendum
- Public hearing for County Ditch 49 Lateral B-1
- MnDOT grant agreements and construction contracts for highway projects
- Resignations and vacancy fillings for Assistant County Attorney and 911 Dispatcher positions
The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners approved a series of highway and bridge contracts totaling roughly $7.8 million, including a $5,258,035.85 full-depth reclamation and surfacing project on CSAH 8 and CSAH 29 and a $1,120,364.00 culvert project on CSAH 17 and CSAH 26. The board also accepted three state Local Bridge Replacement Program grants totaling $540,927 for bridge replacements, approved $1,214,676.47 in claims, and accepted two employee resignations while approving permission to fill those and other vacant positions. As the drainage authority, the board adopted findings and an order abandoning the former alignment of Lateral B-1 of County Ditch 49 on a 4-0 vote, with Commissioner Kaasa absent. The board also rescinded an earlier resolution accepting the resignation of Veteran's Court Coordinator Ashley Hall.
- Approved consent agenda: March 5, 2024 minutes, regular full-time status employees, drainage repairs
- Approved $205,963 bridge grant for Bridge No. 89268 replacement (SAP 024-017-019)
- Approved $158,190 bridge grant for Bridge No. 89276 replacement (SAP 024-026-018)
- Approved $176,774 bridge grant for Bridge No. 89278 replacement (SAP 024-026-019)
- Awarded $1,120,364.00 culvert contract to Jensen Excavating & Trucking (SAP 024-617-019)
- Awarded $5,258,035.85 road contract to Ulland Brothers Inc. (SAP 024-608-007)
- Awarded $1,093,810.90 chip seal contract to ASTECH Corp. (CP 024-SEAL-004)
- Adopted order abandoning former alignment of Lateral B-1 of County Ditch 49 (4-0, Kaasa absent)
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of County Commissioners will hold a workshop to review updates from various department heads. Discussions include 2023 budget changes, the Opioid Advisory Committee, and highway project bids. The meeting also includes a review of all county-issued awards, scholarships, and grants.
- Review of 2023 budget changes, committed funds, and February budget to actual
- Opioid Advisory Committee update
- Freeborn County Trail update and road project bids received
- Bridge bond awards and MnDOT funding agreements
- Review of all county awards, scholarships, and grants
Board of County Commissioners
The Board will consider a resolution to expand Conditional Use Permit #94 in Clarks Grove. They will also discuss grant applications for monument restoration and consulting services for a multiuse trail. Additionally, the Board will address filling several vacant county positions.
- Expansion of Conditional Use Permit #94 at 75225 255th Street, Clarks Grove
- Grant application for PLSS Monument Restoration
- Consulting services for Paved Multiuse Trail in cooperation with Albert Lea
- Resignation of Ashley Hall, Veterans Court Coordinator
- Filling two vacant Eligibility Worker positions
The Board approved a consulting agreement with HDR, Inc. for a paved trail project and authorized a grant application for monument restoration. The Board also approved several personnel changes and $1.37 million in claims.
- Approved consulting agreement with HDR, Inc. for paved multiuse trail planning and design
- Authorized grant application up to $150,000 for PLSS Monument Restoration
- Approved amendment to Conditional Use Permit #94 for a 1,600-SF lean-to addition
- Approved $1,371,144.35 in claims across multiple funds
- Accepted resignation of Veteran’s Court Coordinator Ashley Hall
- Approved filling of two vacant Eligibility Worker positions
- Approved filling of the vacant Veteran’s Court Coordinator position
- Approved February 20, 2024 minutes, employee status updates, and drainage repairs
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will consider a conditional use permit for grain storage in Newry Township and a $7,500 grant for the Sheriff's K-9 program. The meeting also includes proposals to fill a social worker vacancy and appoint a commissioner to the Opioid Advisory Committee.
- Conditional Use Permit #409 for grain storage in Newry Township
- $7,500 grant from USPCA K-9 Reunite for the K-9 Program
- Filling a vacant CPCW Social Worker/Case Manager position
- Appointment of a County Commissioner to the Opioid Advisory Committee
- Approval of 2024 Tobacco Licenses
Board of County Commissioners
The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will consider several permits and administrative resolutions. Items include a conditional use permit for grain storage in Newry Township and the acceptance of a $7,500 grant for the Sheriff's K-9 program. The board will also address personnel vacancies and committee appointments.
- Conditional Use Permit #409 for grain storage in Newry Township
- $7,500 grant from USPCA K-9 Reunite for the K-9 Program
- Filling a vacant CPCW – Social Worker/Case Manager position
- Appointment of a County Commissioner to the Opioid Advisory Committee
- Approval of 2024 Tobacco Licenses
The Board approved a wide range of administrative actions, including a child support interagency agreement and several business permits. The Board also accepted a $7,500 grant for the Sheriff's K-9 program and authorized filling a social worker position.
- Approved $1,154,521.37 in claims across various funds
- Granted conditional use permit to Klemmensen Grain and Custom Farming for grain storage
- Approved 2024-2025 State of Minnesota-County Child Support Program agreement
- Granted solid waste hauler permit to Helping Hands Junk Removal LLC
- Accepted $7,500 grant from USPCA K-9 Reunite for the Sheriff's K-9 program
- Granted tobacco licenses to six applicants
- Approved filling a vacant CPCW – Social Worker / Case Manager position
- Approved consulting agreement with Pat Martinson for the Auditor-Treasurer office
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will meet for a workshop to discuss various departmental updates. Topics include budget discussions, winter highway work, child support service agreements, and government center security.
- Budget discussion with Pat Paquin
- Highway Department Winter Work update
- 2024-2025 Cooperative Agreement for Child Support Services
- LADC/Jail Social Worker vacancy filling
- Government Center/Courthouse Security discussion
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will review several departmental reports including probation, public health, and human services. Key items include potential fund transfers, election service contracts, and personnel appointments.
- Establishment of a Corrections Agency Board
- Transfer of funds from the General Fund to the Insurance Fund
- Election services contract with City of Albert Lea for April 9, 2024 Special Election
- Election services contract with Election Systems & Software, LLC
- Loan and lien actions regarding County Ditch 31 Improvement
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will review several administrative actions including personnel changes and agency establishment. Discussion includes election service contracts, fund transfers for ditch improvements, and public health appointments.
- Establishment of a Corrections Agency Board
- Contract between City of Albert Lea and Freeborn County for April 9, 2024 Special Election services
- Contract between Freeborn County and Election Systems & Software, LLC
- Loan from General Fund to County Ditch 31 Improvement
- Acceptance of $200 donation for CVCC
The Board approved a $168,388.61 loan from the General Fund to pay off debt for County Ditch 31. They also approved contracts for election services with the City of Albert Lea and vendor ES&S, appointed Candice Lahann as County Assessor, and authorized a $30,000 transfer to the insurance fund. Additionally, the board established a Corrections Advisory Board and approved a joint powers agreement for housing assistance.
- Approved $168,388.61 loan for County Ditch 31 debt payoff
- Approved election services contract with City of Albert Lea ($5,000 fee)
- Approved election services agreement with Election Systems & Software, LLC
- Appointed Candice Lahann as County Assessor effective Feb 12, 2024
- Approved $30,000 transfer from General Fund to Insurance Fund
- Established Freeborn County Corrections Advisory Board
- Approved Joint Powers Agreement for Minnesota Housing participation program
- Approved $2,171,864.44 in claims for payment
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will review several resolutions regarding drainage ditch maintenance, including repairs and improvements for Ditch J21. The meeting also includes discussions on highway plans, public health accounts, and human services service agreements.
- Resolutions for County Ditch J21 Repair and Improvement involving loans from the General Fund
- Approval of the Five-Year Bridge Plan by the Highway Department
- Acceptance of a $5,000 grant from Enbridge, Inc. for the Sheriff's Office
- Public hearing setting for County Ditch No. 49 – Lateral B-1
- 2024 Purchase of Service Agreements for psychiatric services
The Board authorized over $650,000 in loans for multiple county and judicial ditches and approved two separate loans totaling $788,049.22 to pay off bonded indebtedness for Ditch J21. Other actions included approving a PACE special assessment and sponsoring a grant application for the City of Geneva.
- Approved $652,800 in loans for various County and Judicial ditches
- Approved $391,660.46 loan for County Ditch J21 North Branch A Repair debt payoff
- Approved $396,388.76 loan for County Ditch J21 North Branch A Improvement debt payoff
- Approved $99,789.00 PACE special assessment for parcel 34.007.5560
- Approved sponsorship of City of Geneva's Downtown Improvement Project grant application
- Approved 2024 Purchase of Service Agreements for psychiatric services with SCCBI and Brian Vold
- Accepted resignation of VSO Benefits Specialist Robin Evenson and authorized filling the position
- Approved $1,405,693.30 in claims across multiple county funds
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will consider several resolutions regarding County Ditch J21 repairs, improvements, and funding. The meeting also includes discussions on human services purchase agreements and various departmental reports.
- Resolution for County Ditch J21 repair and improvement loans from the General Fund
- Approval of 2024 Purchase of Service Agreements for psychiatric services and Brian Vold
- $5,000 grant from Enbridge, Inc. to the Sheriff's Office
- Public hearing regarding the partial abandonment of County Ditch No. 49, Lateral B-1
- PACE special assessment on parcel 34.007.5560
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will hold a workshop to discuss various departmental updates. Topics include trail design proposals, courtroom upgrades, and potential changes to public hearing notice periods.
- Establishing a Freeborn County Corrections Advisory Board
- UP Trail Design Proposals and general trail update
- Master Bridge List funding update
- Additional day of psychiatric services
- Discussion on Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) special assessment
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will elect a new Chairman and Vice-Chairman for 2024. The meeting includes several resolutions regarding drainage ditch repairs, election board establishment, and renewals for human services contracts.
- Election of the 2024 Freeborn County Board Chairman and Vice-Chairman
- Public Hearing: Acceptance of Contract for Improvement to County Ditch J21, Branch A
- Resolution to accept a $450 donation for CVCC
- Resolution to accept a $1,000 donation from the Estate of Bernita Lundquist
- Renewal of contracts for guardianship and semi-independent living services
The Board elected Commissioner Brad Edwin as Chair and Commissioner John Forman as Vice-Chair. The board approved 2024 crop damage rates, renewed several human services contracts, and designated the Albert Lea Tribune as the official newspaper.
- Elected Commissioner Brad Edwin as Chair and Commissioner John Forman as Vice-Chair
- Adopted Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised 12th Edition as parliamentary authority
- Approved 2024 crop damage rates: Corn at $963/acre and Beans at $729/acre
- Set 2024 rate for unplanted drainage ditch acres at $660 per acre
- Authorized the Auditor-Treasurer to implement Absentee, UOCAVA, and Mail Ballot Boards
- Approved $421,475.80 in claims across General, Road & Bridge, Human Services, Public Health, and Ditch funds
- Approved drainage inspection contracts for Cody Fox ($47,740.50) and Dave Claussen ($37,131.50)
- Adopted the acceptance order for the County Ditch J21, Branch A improvement construction contract
Board of County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will meet to elect the 2024 Board Chairman and Vice-Chairman. The agenda includes several resolutions regarding drainage ditch repairs, legal services, and renewals for human services contracts.
- Election of 2024 Board Chairman and Vice-Chairman
- Public hearing for contract improvement to County Ditch J21, Branch A
- Resolution for Rinke Noonan 2024 Legal Services Agreement for Drainage Authority
- Renewal of contracts with Serenity Services, Unique Abilities, LLC, and REM Woodvale, Inc.
- Acceptance of $450 donation for CVCC and $1,000 donation from the Estate of Bernita Lundquist