Freeborn County public meetings in 2025

General

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet on December 30, 2025. The agenda includes a pledge of allegiance, approval of the meeting agenda, and a vote to approve county claims. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Pledge of Allegiance
• Approval of Meeting Agenda
• Approval of Claims
• Adjournment

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will consider a budget resolution that sets the 2026 tax levy at a 9.5% increase over 2025. A public hearing will be held to gather testimony on proposed amendments to Chapter 8 of the County Code of Ordinances. Several resolutions will be adopted, including a loan for individual sewage treatment systems and approvals for equipment replacements and fee schedule updates.

• Public hearing on amendments to Chapter 8 of the Freeborn County Code of Ordinances (Dec 16, 2025, 8:45 am, 411 South Broadway, Albert Lea)
• Resolution adopting an individual sewage treatment system loan
• Resolution approving replacement of two tandem‑axle dump trucks with plow equipment
• Resolution setting the 2026 tax levy as a 9.5% increase compared to 2025
• Resolution approving the revised Freeborn County Fee Schedule

Board of County Commissioners

The Board will hear a presentation on a proposed cell tower at the fairgrounds from Great River Energy and ITC Midwest. Commissioners will discuss amendments to the Cannabis Business Registration Ordinance and consider a possible ordinance limiting firearms used during deer season. Additional items include budget performance, equipment purchases for the highway department, and a request for proposals to use opioid settlement funds.

• Fairgrounds cell tower presentation – Great River Energy & ITC Midwest
• Cannabis Business Registration Ordinance amendments
• Notification of option to adopt ordinance limiting firearms used to take deer
• 2026 highway department equipment purchases
• Request for proposal for opioid settlement funds – Albert Lea Fire Rescue

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet on Dec 4, 2025. After a pledge of allegiance and agenda approval, the board will enter a closed session under Minn. Stat. 13D.05 to discuss attorney‑client privileged communications concerning the county’s drainage system and possible litigation. No other actions are listed.

• Closed session to discuss attorney‑client privileged communications about drainage system litigation
• Pledge of Allegiance
• Approval of Meeting Agenda

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners met on December 4, 2025 and approved the agenda as presented. Afterward the board entered a closed session to discuss attorney‑client privileged matters concerning the drainage system and potential litigation. The board reconvened in open session and adjourned at 5:50 p.m.

• Approved agenda as presented

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting on December 4, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. The meeting includes a public hearing on the proposed 2026 tax levy and the county’s operating budget. Commissioners will review the proposed levy and budget and consider comments from members of the public.

• Public hearing on the proposed 2026 tax levy and budget
• Board review of the proposed 2026 levy and operating budget
• Public comment period (speakers limited to 5 minutes each)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board will vote on several resolutions, including a fee for solid waste recycling in 2026. Other items include approval of six abatement applications, final payments for two infrastructure projects, and a grant application for local road improvements. The meeting also includes routine approvals of minutes, employee status, and public comments.

• Resolution to approve the proposed Solid Waste Recycling Fee for 2026
• Resolution to approve abatement applications for 6 parcels
• Resolution approving Freeborn County Local Road Improvement Program grant application
• Resolution authorizing final payment for SAP 025-648-005
• Resolution authorizing final payment for CP 025-MICRO-014

The Board approved the 2026 solid waste fee schedule, establishing rates of $70 per household for city residents, $60 for rural residents, and tiered rates for multi‑unit properties. It also approved the November 18th, 2025 minutes and regular full‑time employee status, abatement applications for six parcels, final payments for highway projects, an LRIP grant application for guardrail improvements, and payment of over $1 million in various county claims.

• Approved consent agenda items: November 18th, 2025 minutes and regular full‑time status employees
• Approved abatement applications for six parcels (Scherff, Albert Lea Estates, LLC, Oferosky, Burrow, Kraft, Guzman)
• Approved 2026 solid waste fee schedule ($70 city, $60 rural, $50 for ≤4 units, $7 for ≥5 units)
• Approved application for LRIP grant for guardrail improvements on CSAH 35
• Authorized final payment of $86,857.34 for SAP 024-648-005
• Authorized final payment of $155,803.43 for CP 025-MICRO-014
• Approved payment of $1,017,681.69 in various county claims

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners is holding a workshop to discuss specific requests. The meeting focuses on salary requests from the Sheriff and the County Attorney.

• Sheriff Ryan Shea salary request
• County Attorney David Walker salary request

General

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will discuss several administrative matters. Items include a discussion of job descriptions, a certificate confirming Rich Heffner’s appointment as County Assessor, ongoing talks about tax‑forfeited properties in Albert Lea, and a budget discussion led by the Finance Department.

• Discussion on job descriptions
• Certificate of Confirmation for Rich Heffner’s appointment as County Assessor
• Continuing discussion on tax‑forfeited properties in Albert Lea (originally presented 10/14/2025)
• Budget discussion (Finance Department)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve minutes, contracts, and resolutions regarding vacant staff positions and watershed management plans. The meeting includes a closed session for attorney-client privilege and a public comment period.

• Approval of Drainage Ditch Repairs
• Adopt and Implement the Cannon River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan
• Adopt and Implement the Blue Earth River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan
• Resolution amending Section 42-67 of the Zoning Ord. (Ch. 42)
• Resolution accepting a donation to CVCC

The Freeborn County Board approved its consent agenda, then adopted a series of resolutions. Key actions included adopting the Cannon River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan, approving a similar plan for the Blue Earth River, and amending the zoning ordinance to set a 75‑foot setback for subsurface sewage treatment facilities. The board also approved a habitat easement, accepted a $500 donation, and authorized a $4,950 micro‑grant for staff training.

• Approved consent agenda items: October 14, October 21, November 4 minutes; regular full‑time status employees; drainage repairs
• Adopted Resolution 25‑328 approving habitat easement in Moscow Township, Section 24
• Adopted Resolution 25‑329 titled "Banks Doing Business"
• Adopted Resolution 25‑330 to adopt and implement the Cannon River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan
• Adopted Resolution 25‑331 to adopt and implement the Blue Earth River Watershed Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan
• Adopted Resolution 25‑332 amending the zoning ordinance to require a 75‑foot setback for subsurface sewage treatment facilities
• Adopted Resolution 25‑333 accepting an anonymous $500 donation to the Crime Victims Crisis Center
• Adopted Resolution 25‑334 approving a micro‑grant contract for up to $4,950 to reimburse staff time for certification training

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will meet to review department reports and approve various resolutions. Key actions include updating funding for Recovery Is Happening and scheduling budget workshops for late November.

• Road Use Agreement with Alliant Energy for Bent Tree 1 Wind Farm Reconditioning Project
• Increase approved amount for Recovery Is Happening from $9,474 to $12,137
• Liquor License approval for Three Oaks Vineyards & Winery
• Appointment of a manager to the Turtle Creek Watershed District
• Approval of out of state travel for Commissioner Shoff to Oregon

The Freeborn County Board adopted a resolution approving nearly $2 million in various county claims. It also appointed a new manager for the Turtle Creek Watershed District, approved a liquor license, accepted a $20 donation, and authorized several infrastructure payments and out‑of‑state travel.

• Approved $1,998,598.11 in county claims (Resolution 25-326)
• Appointed Anthony Dahl as manager of Turtle Creek Watershed District (Resolution 25-314)
• Approved liquor license for Three Oaks Winery (Resolution 25-316)
• Accepted $20 donation to Crime Victims Crisis Center from Larry Baker (Resolution 25-317)
• Approved Road Use Agreement with Alliant Energy for Bent Tree 1 Wind Farm (Resolution 25-318)
• Authorized final payment of $15,388.32 for culvert 24J70 in Oakland Township (Resolution 25-319)
• Authorized final payment of $84,452.35 for 2025 paving on CSAH 35 and CR 95 (Resolution 25-320)
• Approved out‑of‑state travel for Commissioner Shoff to NACo Rural Energy Academy (Resolution 25-325)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will consider several resolutions, including awards of opioid settlement funds to three community projects and a grant amendment for Women, Infants, and Children. The board will also act on public‑works items such as a speed‑zone study on CSAH 14 and final payments for multiple construction projects. Additional items include staff resignations, service agreements for trail planning, and a request to send a letter to ICE regarding contract payments.

• Resolution to approve opioid settlement funds for the Serenity Project Start‑Up (Encouraging Excellence, Inc.)
• Resolution to approve opioid settlement funds for the Recovery Is Happening Harm Reduction Project
• Resolution to approve opioid settlement funds for the STARS Mentor Program Opioid Prevention Initiative
• Resolution requesting a speed‑zone study on CSAH 14 in Emmons
• Resolution authorizing final payment for CP 025‑CS‑006

The Freeborn County Board adopted its consent agenda items, including the October 7, 2025 minutes, regular full‑time employee approvals, and drainage repairs. It approved three opioid settlement fund awards totaling $34,874 for local prevention and harm‑reduction projects. The board also approved a $793,784 amendment to the Women, Infants and Children grant with the Minnesota Department of Health.

• Approved consent agenda items (minutes, full‑time employees, drainage repairs)
• Approved $18,900 Serenity Project award to Encouraging Excellence, Inc.
• Approved $9,474 Narcan vending‑machine award to Recovery Is Happening (4‑1 vote)
• Approved $6,500 STARS Mentor Program opioid prevention award
• Approved $793,784 Women, Infants and Children grant amendment with MDH

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to receive attorney-client privileged communications. The discussion focuses on legal matters involving the drainage system and potential litigation.

• Closed session regarding drainage system legal matters and potential litigation

The commissioners approved the meeting agenda. They then entered a closed session under attorney‑client privilege to discuss legal matters concerning drainage system 68. The board decided to explore other drainage options at a future meeting. The session was adjourned until October 21, 2025.

• Approved the agenda (motion passed)
• Entered closed session to discuss drainage system legal matters
• Decided to explore other drainage options at a future board meeting

Board of County Commissioners

The commissioners will discuss a forfeited property matter, review the September budget-to-actual figures, receive a report on the 2025 Freeborn County Fair, and evaluate three requests for proposals for opioid settlement funds.

• Discussion on forfeited property
• Finance report: budget to actual for September
• Report of the 2025 Freeborn County Fair
• Review of three opioid settlement funds requests for proposals

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will consider a series of resolutions, including a PACE special assessment on two parcels owned by Jason Tieskotter. It will also review grant amendments and agreements with the Minnesota Department of Health, and ratify an existing ICE Warrant Services memorandum. Additional items include appointments, contract approvals, and a schedule change for the November board meeting.

• Approval of Drainage Ditch Repairs (consent agenda)
• Resolution to approve the Cannabis and Substance Use Prevention Grant amendment with the Minnesota Department of Health
• Resolution placing a PACE Special Assessment on parcels 26.004.0040 & 26.004.0050 owned by Jason Tieskotter
• Resolution ratifying the current Memorandum of Understanding related to ICE Warrant Services
• Resolution approving the Union Contract for Correctional Sergeants

The Freeborn County Board adopted its consent agenda and approved several resolutions, including a grant amendment that raises the Cannabis and Substance Use Prevention award to $294,610. It also approved a $146,037 SHIP health grant, a $40,000 PACE assessment on two parcels, and ratified an ICE warrant‑service agreement. Additional actions included proclaiming Domestic Violence Awareness Month, appointing Stephen Rick to a county collaborative, and accepting a staff resignation.

• Approved consent agenda items: September 16, 2025 minutes; regular full‑time status employees; drainage repairs
• Approved Cannabis and Substance Use Prevention Grant amendment increasing award to $294,610
• Approved Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP) grant of $146,037 for 2025‑2026
• Approved placement of $40,000 PACE special assessment on parcels 26.004.0040 and 26.004.0050
• Proclaimed October 2025 Domestic Violence Awareness Month
• Appointed Stephen Rick to the Freeborn County Family Services and Children’s Mental Health Collaborative
• Ratified the memorandum of agreement with ICE for warrant service
• Accepted resignation of Brittany Smisek, Social Worker / Case Manager CPCW

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board will consider a resolution to approve Conditional Use Permit #414 for Randy Heideman in Section 2 of Manchester Township. They will also act on a final payment for public works contract CP 025‑M‑004 and accept a grant agreement with MnDOT for TZD. Additional items include a resignation acceptance and a vacancy fill for an Information Systems Technician.

• Resolution approving Conditional Use Permit #414 for Randy Heideman (Manchester Township)
• Resolution authorizing final payment for CP 025‑M‑004 (Public Works)
• Resolution to accept grant agreement with MnDOT for TZD (Sheriff’s Office)
• Resolution to accept resignation of Eric Mickelson, Information Systems Technician
• Resolution to fill vacant Information Systems Technician position

The Freeborn County Board adopted the preliminary 2026 tax levy of $32,764,127 and approved the FY 2026 budget after a second vote. It also approved a parcel repurchase for $381.29, a conditional‑use permit for grain storage, a $10,706.90 final highway payment, a $23,050 traffic‑safety grant, and a $500 donation for sheriff equipment and stuffed animals.

• Approved 2026 tax levy (4‑1 vote) totaling $32,764,127
• Approved FY 2026 budget (5‑0 vote) after reconsideration
• Approved repurchase of Parcel 25.022.0061 for $381.29
• Granted conditional‑use permit to Randy Heideman for grain storage structures
• Authorized final payment of $10,706.90 to County Highway Department
• Accepted $23,050 Toward Zero Death traffic‑safety grant
• Accepted $500 donation for sheriff equipment and stuffed animals
• Motion to table travel resolution 25‑264 approved

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will hear budget summaries from finance, human services, and the county assessor. They will review an insurance bid and Minnesota Paid Leave information. The meeting includes discussion of economic development dollars and funding for the Song Bird Trail project, as well as a 2026 funding request for statutory authorizations.

• Budget Summary (Finance Manager)
• Insurance bid overview and Minnesota Paid Leave review
• Economic Development Dollar discussion
• Song Bird Trail Project and funding update
• 2026 Funding Request Statutory Authorizations

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to review department reports and approve administrative items. The board will consider land acquisition for habitat and wetland restoration and the ratification of a tax software amendment.

• Land acquisition of Parcel 030340030 & 030340031 for Shell Rock River Watershed District
• Ratification of Avenu Tax Software Amendment for 2026
• Approval of drainage ditch repairs
• Approval of regular full-time status employees
• Sheriff's Office awards presentation

The Freeborn County Board approved its agenda and the consent agenda items, including the August 19, 2025 minutes, regular full‑time employee status, and drainage repairs. It ratified the Avenu tax‑software program for 2026. It also approved payment of $1,988,859.39 in claims for various county funds.

• Approved the meeting agenda as presented
• Adopted Consent Agenda items: August 19, 2025 minutes; regular full‑time status employees; drainage repairs
• Ratified the Avenu tax‑software program for 2026
• Approved payment of claims totaling $1,988,859.39 across multiple funds

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will meet to discuss land use restrictions and emergency declarations. The session includes reviews of public health grants, public works contracts, and an audit report. Members will also consider a local state of emergency declaration following a severe storm and flooding event.

• Resolution to adopt a moratorium on Data Centers
• Temporary Interim Zoning Ordinance for Energy Storage Systems
• Local declaration of State of Emergency regarding August 9th, 2025 storm and flooding
• Contract award for CP 025-LINE-998
• Resolution to approve a culvert replacement project

The commissioners approved the meeting agenda and consent items, allocated $11,400 for a mental‑health digital platform, and approved two grant agreements totaling $100,000 for community health services. They also adopted temporary interim zoning ordinances that place a moratorium on new data center and energy storage system projects while studies are conducted. Additionally, the board tabled a tax‑software ratification until the September meeting and ratified the MCAPS case‑management software contract renewal.

• Approved agenda addition to consider a culvert replacement project
• Approved consent agenda items: August 5 minutes, regular full‑time status employees, drainage repairs, informational policy review minutes
• Authorized $11,400 opioid settlement funds for one‑year CredibleMind mental‑health platform (Resolution 25‑240)
• Approved grant agreement for Community Health Worker position (Resolution 25‑241)
• Approved $100,000 grant agreement for Family Home Visiting services (Resolution 25‑242)
• Tabled Tax Software Program ratification until September 2, 2025 (Resolution 25‑243)
• Adopted temporary interim zoning ordinance moratorium on data centers (Ordinance 25‑244)
• Adopted temporary interim zoning ordinance moratorium on energy storage systems (Ordinance 25‑244A)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will hold a workshop to review departmental budgets and discuss a proposed moratorium on energy storage systems and data centers. The meeting is scheduled for August 12, 2025.

• Budget presentations for Finance, Recorder, Public Health, and Highway departments
• Discussion of a moratorium on Energy Storage Systems (under 10-MW) and Data Centers
• Review of the CredibleMind program
• Letter of Support for the I-35/East Main Street Project

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve meeting minutes, employee status, and consent agenda items. The board will also consider resolutions for tobacco licenses, bank signers, and various departmental agreements.

• Approval of minutes from July 11 and 15 meetings
• Approval of Regular Full-Time Status Employees
• Consideration of a tobacco license for Staples Enterprises
• Consideration of a resolution to pick a bank for the next five years
• Consideration of a resolution to renew a fraud prevention agreement

The Freeborn County Board adopted its consent agenda and designated Citizens Community Federal Bank as the County Bank of Business. It granted a tobacco retail license to Holiday Albert Lea, approved a $155,925 veterans court contract, resumed family child‑care licensing fees, and accepted two grants from the Freeborn County Communities Foundation.

• Approved consent agenda items (minutes, full‑time employees, drainage repairs)
• Designated Citizens Community Federal Bank as County Bank of Business
• Granted tobacco retail license to Staples Enterprises d/b/a Holiday Albert Lea
• Approved $155,925 veterans court contract with the State of Minnesota
• Resumed charging and collecting family child‑care licensing fees
• Approved receipt of $3,500 grant for Probation Services truancy program
• Approved receipt of $1,265 grant for Probation Services Coffee Connections program
• Approved transfer of excess municipal construction funds to regular construction funds

General

The Joint Drainage Authority will hear a petition to expand the scope of the Joint Ditch J8 improvement project. After presentations and public comment, the board will deliberate and make a decision on the request. The meeting includes procedural items such as notice requirements and an engineer’s report.

• Presentation of request to expand scope of Joint Ditch J8 project
• Engineer’s report by Shaun Luker, Bolton & Menk
• Public comment period
• Board deliberations and final decision on the petition

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board will consider several routine approvals, including a contract with Arctic Wolf for cyber‑security services. It will also act on a resolution to contract a Substance Use and Recovery Educator, and authorize final payment for project CP 025‑CULV‑095. A closed session will be held for legal advice on pending litigation.

• Approval of Contract with Arctic Wolf (Cyber Security) and Antivirus Renewals
• Consider a resolution for contracting for Substance Use and Recovery Educator and Recovery Corps
• Resolution authorizing final payment for CP 025-CULV-095
• Resolution approving office hours for the Highway Department Office at 3300 Bridge Avenue, Albert Lea
• Consider a resolution to appoint Rich Heffner as Freeborn County Assessor

The Freeborn County Board adopted its agenda, accepted the resignation of Public Safety Telecommunicator Amanda Vaith and approved filling the vacancy, and approved a $9,462.50 fund for early onboarding of an AmeriCorps Recovery Corps member. It also changed Highway Department office hours, appointed a new County Assessor, approved a cyber‑security contract, and authorized $1,888,008.39 in claims across multiple funds.

• Approved agenda additions to accept Amanda Vaith’s resignation and fill the vacant telecommunicator post
• Adopted consent agenda items: July 1 minutes, regular full‑time status employees, drainage repairs
• Approved up to $9,462.50 for early onboarding of an AmeriCorps Recovery Corps member
• Approved contract with ArticWolf for cyber‑security services and antivirus renewals
• Changed Highway Department office hours to 7:00 am‑3:30 pm (vote 4‑1)
• Appointed Rich Heffner as County Assessor
• Authorized $1,888,008.39 in claims across multiple funds (vote 5‑0)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a workshop where department heads present budget information. Sheriff Ryan Shea will discuss the sheriff's budget. IT Director Tim Fulton will explain maintenance, contract, and software costs. Maintenance head Brad Herfindahl and insurance/benefits representative Melanie will each present their respective budgets.

• Sheriff Ryan Shea – presentation of the sheriff's budget
• IT Director Tim Fulton – explanation of maintenance and contract costs and software costs
• Maintenance head Brad Herfindahl – presentation of the maintenance budget
• Insurance/Wages/Benefits representative Melanie – presentation of insurance, wages, and benefits budget

Board of County Commissioners

The commissioners will consider a resolution to accept the resignation of Auditor‑Treasurer Kelly Hendrickson. They will also consider resolutions to fill the vacant Auditor‑Treasurer position and to make an emergency appointment of an interim Auditor‑Treasurer. A resolution concerning which banks may do business with Freeborn County will be discussed. Standard agenda items such as the pledge of allegiance, agenda approval, oath of office, and adjournment are also included.

• Resolution to accept resignation of Auditor‑Treasurer Kelly Hendrickson
• Resolution to fill the vacant Auditor‑Treasurer position
• Resolution for emergency appointment of an interim Auditor‑Treasurer
• Resolution regarding Freeborn County banks doing business with the county

The board approved its agenda and accepted the resignation of the County Auditor‑Treasurer. It authorized filling the vacancy, made an emergency appointment, and formally appointed Patrick Paquin as the interim Auditor‑Treasurer. A separate resolution regarding a bank doing business with the county was also approved.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Accepted resignation of Auditor‑Treasurer (Resolution 25-211)
• Authorized filling the Auditor‑Treasurer position (Resolution 25-212)
• Approved emergency appointment of interim Auditor‑Treasurer (Resolution 25-213)
• Appointed Patrick Paquin as interim Auditor‑Treasurer (Resolution 25-214)
• Approved bank doing business with the county (Resolution 25-215)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a workshop covering several departmental updates. They will discuss contracting for a Substance Use and Recovery Educator and Recovery Corps, and review cybersecurity renewals for Arctic Wolf and antivirus software. Additional items include a discussion of highway department office hours, a June budget‑to‑actual review, and a presentation from the Probation Board. The meeting will also introduce the County Assessor and address appropriations.

• Contracting for Substance Use and Recovery Educator and Recovery Corps (Public Health)
• Arctic Wolf cybersecurity and antivirus renewals (IT)
• Discussion of office hours for Highway Department Office at 3300 Bridge Avenue
• June Budget‑to‑Actual review (Finance)
• Probation Board presentation

Board of County Commissioners

The commissioners will approve routine items such as meeting minutes and employee status, and consider several resolutions. These include authorizing a final payment for project CP 025‑M‑002, awarding Contract 254805 for SAP 024‑648‑005, and appointing three members to the Shellrock Watershed Board. The board will also address the resignation of Probation & Pre‑Trial Services Director Lyndon Stinson and fill the vacant director position. Reports will be given by Public Works, the Sheriff’s Office, and other departments, including a local emergency declaration for June flooding.

• Approve final payment for CP 025-M-002 (Public Works)
• Authorize award of Contract 254805 for SAP 024-648-005 (Public Works)
• Appoint three individuals to the Board of Managers of the Shellrock Watershed
• Accept resignation of Probation & Pre‑Trial Services Director Lyndon Stinson (effective Oct 31, 2025)
• Approve office hours for the Highway Department Office at 3300 Bridge Avenue, Albert Lea

The Board approved its consent agenda, including June minutes, employee status and drainage repairs. It appointed three managers to the ShellRock River Watershed, authorized a $9,573.07 final road‑striping payment, and awarded a $205,932.70 highway contract to Ulland Brothers Inc. The Board also declared a state of emergency, accepted the Probation Director’s resignation, approved filling the vacant director position, and approved $1,546,236.92 in county claims.

• Approved consent agenda items (June 17 minutes, appeal minutes, employee status, drainage repairs)
• Appointed Alan Bakken, Dan DeBoer and Mitchell Delger as ShellRock River Watershed managers
• Authorized final payment of $9,573.07 for road striping
• Awarded contract 254805 to Ulland Brothers Inc. for $205,932.70 highway project
• Motion to continue current Highway Department office hours approved (4‑1 vote)
• Declared a local state of emergency for severe storms and flooding
• Accepted resignation of Probation & Pre‑Trial Services Director Lyndon Stinson effective Oct 31 2025
• Approved payment of county claims totaling $1,546,236.92

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve minutes, employee status, and drainage ditch repairs. The board will also consider resolutions for final payments, cooperative agreements with the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and a joint powers agreement for regional homeland security.

• Approval of Regular Full-Time Status Employees
• Approval of Drainage Ditch Repairs
• Resolution Authorizing Final Payment for CP 025-LINE-999
• Resolution Approving Cooperative Agreement with Minnesota Department of Transportation for CSAH 48 Railroad Crossing Improvement Project
• Consider a resolution to approve the Joint Powers Agreement - Region One - Southeast Minnesota Homeland Security Emergency Management

The commissioners accepted the resignation of Patrol Deputy Joshua Knudtson, effective June 26, 2025. They approved two large property‑tax abatements totaling $69,824 for Pembina Cochin, LLC and Alliance Pipeline, LP. The board voted to withdraw Freeborn County from the Greater Blue Earth River Basin Alliance, to make a final payment of $44,486.85 for a culvert project, to enter a MnDOT cooperative agreement for highway improvements, to adopt a regional homeland‑security joint powers agreement, and to continue participation in the state performance‑measurement program.

• Accepted resignation of Patrol Deputy Joshua Knudtson effective June 26, 2025
• Approved $21,064 property‑tax abatement for Pembina Cochin, LLC
• Approved $48,760 property‑tax abatement for Alliance Pipeline, LP
• Approved withdrawal from Greater Blue Earth River Basin Alliance effective Dec 31, 2025
• Authorized final payment of $44,486.85 for CP 025‑LINE‑999 culvert work
• Approved cooperative agreement with MnDOT for improvements on CSAH 48 (Margaretha Avenue) in Albert Lea
• Approved Joint Powers Agreement – Region One – Southeast Minnesota Homeland Security Emergency Management
• Approved participation in 2025 State of MN Performance Measurement Program and related reporting

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners held a workshop with presentations from agency representatives and internal staff. Commissioners reviewed outside agency requests and several county administration topics, including a commercial property reevaluation by Vanguard Appraisals, Inc. and a discussion of venue changes for upcoming meetings.

• Economic Development presentation by Phillip Johnson (ALEDA)
• Outside agency requests from History Center of Freeborn County, SEMCAC, Freeborn County Soil & Water Conservation District, Senior Resources of Freeborn County, Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation, Humane Society of Freeborn County, Albert Lea Public Library, Broadway Ridge Grant, STARS, and Southeastern Minnesota Emergency Medical Services
• Healthcare Coalition – School – NIS presentation
• Claims review discussion
• Vanguard Appraisals, Inc. – Commercial Reevaluation

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss budget adjustments and personnel changes. The board is considering shifting funds between highway and self-insurance accounts and filling a Child Support Officer vacancy.

• Decommit $1,000,000 from Committed for Highway
• Commit an additional $500,000 for self Insurance
• Contract with ISD 2886 for Election Services
• Appointment of a Board member to the Midwater BESS Project Citizen Advisory Task Force
• Acceptance of $50 donation to the Blazing Star Trail

The commissioners approved the meeting agenda and consent items, including the May 20 minutes and drainage repairs. They adopted a contract for election services with ISD #2886, rejected a $50 donation to the Blazing Star Trail, and approved several personnel actions and a child‑protection travel request. The board also decommitted $1 million from highway projects and committed an additional $500 k to the county’s self‑insurance health fund, and authorized payment of $2,854,866.11 in various claims.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items: May 20 minutes and drainage repairs
• Approved election services contract with ISD #2886
• Rejected $50 donation to Blazing Star Trail (5 nay votes)
• Approved out‑of‑state travel for child protection supervisor
• Accepted termination of employee #1079 (Child Support Officer)
• Approved filling vacant Child Support Officer position
• Appointed Commissioner Eckstrom to Citizen Advisory Task Force (4 yay, 1 abstain)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board will discuss a labor negotiation contract for Patrol Deputies and several low‑value public‑works contracts. It will also approve drainage ditch repairs, a travel request for two Public Health staff to attend a conference in Anaheim, and other routine resolutions.

• Approval of Drainage Ditch Repairs
• Resolution for out‑of‑state travel for two Public Health staff to NACCHO 360 conference in Anaheim, CA
• Resolution authorizing award of contract for CP 025‑CS‑006 (low CP)
• Resolution authorizing award of contract for SAP 024‑601‑018 (low SAP)
• Resolution to approve the labor negotiation contract for Patrol Deputies

The board approved its consent agenda, authorized out‑of‑state travel for a health official, awarded several highway contracts totaling over $2 million, accepted a $600 donation for the sheriff’s K9 fund, and accepted a detective’s resignation. It also established a policy‑review committee and set a budget workshop date. Finally, the board repealed the County Community Scholarship and directed any unspent money to other educational initiatives.

• Approved consent agenda, including May 6 minutes and drainage repairs
• Approved out‑of‑state travel for Sue Yost to attend NACCHO conference
• Awarded crack‑sealing contract to Fahrner Asphalt Sealers for $196,446.29
• Awarded culvert contract to ICON, LLC for $361,243.41
• Awarded paving contract to Ulland Brothers Inc. for $1,785,880.00
• Accepted $600 donation from AgCountry for the sheriff’s K9 fund
• Accepted resignation of Detective Christina Boardman
• Repealed Resolution 22‑375 establishing the Community Scholarship and ordered reallocation of its funds

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will discuss the Vanguard Commercial Reappraisal. They will review the budget-to-actual figures for the end of April 2025. Additional items include a discussion of the Dodge County Assessor Contract and several presentations on local projects and environmental options.

• Discussion on Vanguard Commercial Reappraisal
• Budget to Actual review for April 2025
• Discussion on Dodge County Assessor Contract
• Blue Earth Watershed Joint Powers Entity options presentation
• Bent Tree North Update presentation

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board will approve its consent agenda, which includes minutes, employee status, and drainage ditch repairs. It will then consider several resolutions, such as a $10,000 abatement for ITC Midwest, LLC and a $1,000,000 de‑commitment from the broadband fund. Additional items include equipment purchases for Public Works and staffing resolutions for the Detention Deputy and Highway Maintenance positions.

• Approval of Drainage Ditch Repairs (consent agenda)
• Resolution approving Abatement over $10,000 – ITC Midwest, LLC
• Consider a resolution to de‑commit $1,000,000 from Broadband
• Resolution approving purchase of mini excavator and trailer
• Consider a resolution to fill the vacant Detention Deputy position

The Freeborn County Board adopted a series of resolutions, including a $553,329 transfer from the Road & Bridge Fund to the General and Social Service Funds and the de‑commitment of $1,000,000 previously earmarked for broadband. It also approved a $2,715 change fund appropriation, a $10,000+ tax abatement for ITC Midwest, and a $8,100 service‑plus‑hours contract with Vanguard Appraisals. Additional actions included tabling the ditch‑spraying item, proclaiming May 2025 Mental Health Awareness Month, and approving out‑of‑state travel for the Emergency Management Director.

• Approved $553,329 transfer from Road & Bridge Fund to General and Social Service Funds (Resolution 25-149)
• Approved de‑commitment of $1,000,000 broadband fund balance (Resolution 25-148)
• Approved $2,715 Change Fund and petty‑cash appropriations (Resolution 25-142)
• Approved tax abatement over $10,000 for ITC Midwest, LLC (Resolution 25-143)
• Approved $8,100 Vanguard Appraisals service‑plus‑hours contract (Resolution 25-144)
• Tabled ditch‑spraying item to May 20 meeting (motion passed 3‑2)
• Proclaimed May 2025 Mental Health Awareness Month (Resolution 25-146)
• Approved out‑of‑state travel for Emergency Management Director Adam Hamberg (Resolution 25-147)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board will act on a consent agenda that includes routine approvals such as meeting minutes and drainage ditch repairs. Committee reports will include a resolution to remove a 4‑way flashing beacon in Geneva and a labor agreement for detention deputies. The Board will also consider two resolutions: one to name a county trail and another to oppose a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) near Glenville.

• Approval of minutes from the April 1, 2025 Board meeting
• Approval of minutes from the April 8, 2025 closed session
• Approval of drainage ditch repairs
• Resolution approving removal of 4‑way flashing beacon in Geneva
• Resolution opposing Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) near Glenville

The Freeborn County Board adopted its consent agenda and routine items, and took several substantive actions including removing a flashing beacon, filling a license specialist vacancy, approving a labor agreement, naming the Songbird Trail, and opposing a proposed battery energy storage system near Glenville. The opposition resolution passed with three yea votes and one abstention.

• Approved April 1 and April 8, 2025 meeting minutes (adopted)
• Approved regular full‑time status employees and drainage repairs (adopted)
• Approved 2024 County Feedlot Officer Annual Report (adopted)
• Approved removal of 4‑way flashing beacon at CSAH 35/45 (adopted)
• Approved filling of vacant License Center Specialist position (adopted)
• Approved labor negotiation agreement for Detention Deputies (adopted)
• Accepted resignation of Interim County Assessor Candice Lahann (adopted)
• Opposed proposed Battery Energy Storage System near Glenville (approved: Severson, Kaasa, Edwin yea; Shoff abstain)

General

The meeting agenda consists of procedural items and a planned closed session. No public business items or decisions are listed for the general session.

• Closed session for attorney-client privilege pursuant to Minn. Stat. 13D.05, subd.3(b)

The board approved an agenda addition to accept the resignation of the Interim County Assessor, effective May 6, 2025. A resolution (No. 25-129) to accept the resignation was adopted. Another resolution (No. 25-130) was approved to table that acceptance until the April 15, 2025 meeting.

• Approved agenda addition to accept Interim County Assessor resignation (effective May 6, 2025)
• Adopted Resolution 25-129 to accept the resignation of the Interim County Assessor
• Approved Resolution 25-130 to table Resolution 25-129 until April 15, 2025

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a labor negotiations contract for Public Safety Telecommunicators and a contract amendment for Interim County Assessor Candy Lahann. The board will also hold a public hearing regarding improvements to Freeborn County Ditch 32.

• Public hearing for improvement of Freeborn County Ditch 32
• Labor negotiations contract for Public Safety Telecommunicators
• Liquor license for Freeborn Lake Golf Course
• Habitat easement notification resolution for Carlston Township, section 36
• Contract amendment for additional hours for Interim County Assessor Candy Lahann

The Freeborn County Board adopted its consent agenda, approving the March 13 and March 18 minutes and drainage repairs. It certified a habitat easement in Carlston Township, granted beer and wine liquor licenses to Freeborn Lake Golf Course, and authorized low‑income sewage‑system cost‑share funding. The Board also approved an agreement with the Shell Rock River Watershed District for invasive‑species aid funds, adopted the preliminary hearing order for County Ditch 32, and declared surplus county vehicles for sale.

• Approved agenda addition for discussion on the Spearmint Energy Battery Storage Facility (motion approved)
• Adopted consent agenda items: March 13 minutes, March 18 minutes, and drainage repairs (resolution adopted)
• Certified habitat easement in Carlston Township Section 36 (Resolution 25‑120 adopted)
• Granted 3.2 % beer and wine liquor licenses to Freeborn Lake Golf Course in Carlston Township (Resolution 25‑121 approved)
• Authorized low‑income SSTS cost‑share funding decision‑making (Resolution 25‑122 approved)
• Approved agreement with Shell Rock River Watershed District for AIS Prevention Aid Funds (Resolution 25‑123 approved)
• Approved Preliminary Hearing Order & Findings for County Ditch 32 (motion approved)
• Declared surplus county property and authorized sale of listed vehicles (Resolution 25‑124 approved)

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will review several contract awards for public works projects. The board will also consider resolutions regarding drainage inspector authority, a donation to CVCC, and a professional services agreement.

• Award of contracts for SAP 024-599-058, CP 025-CULV-095, CP 025-M-004, CP 025-M-002, CP 025-MICRO-014, CP 025-LINE-999, SAP 024-616-007, and CP 025-SAND-005
• Resolution to move Drainage Inspectors under the Auditor-Treasurer
• Professional Services Agreement for Luke Onstad & Joe Wilson
• Resolution to write off an uncollectible Public Health account
• Resolution to accept a donation for CVCC

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet on March 13, 2025. After a pledge of allegiance and agenda approval, the Board will enter a closed session under Minnesota Statute 13D.05 Subd.3 to evaluate the performance of an individual subject to its authority. The meeting will then be adjourned.

• Closed Session – evaluate performance of an individual subject to Board authority

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is holding a workshop to receive updates from department heads. Discussions include infrastructure projects, environmental proposals, and personnel matters.

• Bent Tree 1 Refurbishment Project update with Alliant Energy
• Oakland and London Town Lighting with FMEC Assistance
• AIS Proposal for Shell Rock River Watershed
• MAAFPCWD Act summary and potential fiscal impact
• Discussion on Drainage Inspector authority under the Auditor-Treasurer

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding the adoption of a cannabis registration ordinance. The board will also consider several trail grant applications and railroad crossing agreements.

• Public hearing on the Adoption of the Freeborn County Cannabis Registration Ordinance
• Railroad Crossing Agreement with Union Pacific for CSAH 48 (Margaretha Avenue) Improvements
• Resolutions supporting trail grant applications for ENRTF, MnDNR Regional, and MnDNR Local programs
• Expansion of Conditional Use Permits #47 and #398
• Resolution to amend the Veterans Court contract with the state of Minnesota

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will approve minutes from previous meetings and consider a series of resolutions. Items include approvals for tobacco licenses, a public hearing on County Ditch 32 repairs, and staffing appointments. The board will also discuss adopting zoning amendments for cannabis businesses and approving the Apex Solar Project.

• Approve minutes from the February 4 and February 11, 2025 meetings
• Resolution approving tobacco licenses
• Resolution to set public hearing on County Ditch 32 Repair and Improvement
• Resolution to adopt amendments to Zoning Ord. (Ch. 42) for cannabis businesses
• Resolution to approve the Apex Solar Project

General

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a special meeting on February 11, 2025. The primary purpose of the meeting is to enter a closed session to discuss labor negotiation strategies.

• Closed session for labor negotiation strategies

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a workshop to discuss the 2025 highway construction program and county personnel policies. The meeting includes updates on winter maintenance and the Governor's budget proposal regarding human services cost shifts.

• Union Pacific Railroad Crossing Agreement for Margaretha Avenue (CSAH 48)
• 2025 Highway Construction Program Preview
• Governor's Budget Proposal regarding Human Services Cost Shifts to Counties
• Discussion on Personnel Policy regarding hiring and terminations
• Diamond Jo Scholarship participation for 2025

Board of County Commissioners

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will consider a consent agenda that bundles several routine items for approval without discussion. Items on the consent agenda include the minutes from the January 21, 2025 meeting, approval of regular full‑time status employees, and funding for drainage ditch repairs. The board will also hear resolutions on a service agreement purchase with REM Woodvale and several personnel actions such as terminations, retirements, and new hires.

• Approve minutes from the January 21, 2025 Board meeting
• Approve regular full‑time status employees
• Approve drainage ditch repairs
• Consider resolution to purchase service agreement with REM Woodvale
• Consider resolutions for multiple personnel actions (termination, retirement, hires)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on housing tax abatements for new single-family homes. The body will also consider several purchase of service agreements for Human Services and resolve disaster abatements for a specific real estate parcel.

• Public hearing on Housing Tax Abatements/New Single Family Home
• Housing Tax Abatements for parcels 34.433.0060, 34.431.0130, 34.370.0410, and 34.433.0070
• Local Option Disaster Abatement and Credit for parcel 29.071.0010
• Purchase of Service Agreements with REM Woodvale, Dr. Annette Smick, District 241, and SCCBI
• Authorization of Ditch Loans for 2025 shortage

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will meet on Jan 15, 2025 at 10:00 AM in the Boardroom of the Freeborn County Government Center. The agenda includes a pledge of allegiance, approval of the agenda, scheduled interview sessions, a deliberations/lunch period, and adjournment. No substantive policy items or decisions are listed.

• Interview session from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
• Interview session from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
• Deliberations and lunch at 12:00 p.m.

Board of County Commissioners

The Board will discuss a donation of land to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for the Upper Twin State Wildlife Management Area. Additional topics include finalizing committee assignments, selecting 2025 delegates to the Association of Minnesota Counties, and reviewing tax abatements for new housing development in Albert Lea. The agenda also contains a solar project discussion, an application for local option disaster abatements and credits, and a purchase of services agreement with School District #241.

• Donation of land to the Department of Natural Resources for Upper Twin State Wildlife Management Area
• Finalization of committee assignments
• Appointment of 2025 delegates to the Association of Minnesota Counties
• Discussion of tax abatements for new housing development in Albert Lea
• Purchase of Services Agreement with School District #241

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will elect a Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson for 2025. The body will consider resolutions regarding crop damage rates for drainage ditches, personnel appointments, and various service contracts.

• Transfer of $20,000 from the General Fund to the Insurance Fund
• Setting 2025 Crop Damage Rates for standing and non-planted crops for drainage ditches
• Application for Active Transportation (AT) Infrastructure Grant Funds for Trail Project
• 2025 Purchase of Services Agreement with Brian Vold, APRN
• Approval of Five Year Bridge Priority Replacement Plan