Swift County public meetings in 2025

HRA-EDA Board Meeting

The Swift County HRA-EDA Board will meet to discuss rental assistance and administrative updates. The board is considering the acceptance of a grant award for the Bring It Home Rental Assistance Program. Other items include reviewing snow bids and a demolition request.

• Resolution 2005-03 to accept the Bring It Home Rental Assistance Program grant award
• Section 8 Payment Standard Schedule approval
• Demolition Request approval
• Snow Bids/Contracts
• Updated Check Writing Policy

The Swift County HRA‑EDA board unanimously approved the Strategic Planning Calendar, an updated Check Writing Policy, a Welcome Packet for new residents, and a demolition request pending further approval. It also approved snow‑removal contracts with Black Diamond Industries LLC and Kranz Construction Inc., the Section 8 Payment Standard schedule, and the Bring It Home Work Plan (excluding the citizenship amendment). Finally, the board adopted Resolution 2025‑03 to accept the grant award for the Bring It Home Rental Assistance Program.

• Approved Strategic Planning Calendar (unanimous)
• Approved updated Check Writing Policy (unanimous)
• Approved Welcome Packet for new residents (unanimous)
• Approved Demolition Request pending Benson EDA approval (unanimous)
• Approved snow‑removal bids with Black Diamond Industries LLC and Kranz Construction Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved Section 8 Payment Standard schedule (unanimous)
• Approved Bring It Home Work Plan (excluding citizenship amendment) (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑03 to accept Bring It Home grant award (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review the 2026 budget and the 2026-2030 Road and Bridge Improvement plan. The body will also consider a tax levy for the HRA and a conditional use permit for Greg deCathelineau.

• Resolution No. 25-08-34 for the 2026 HRA Tax Levy
• 2026-2030 Road and Bridge Improvement plan
• Day Care Grant for Jen Reigstad of Clontarf for $2500
• Greg deCathelineau Conditional Use Permit
• Agreement with Soldo Consulting Group, P.C.

The Swift County Board approved the Conditional Use Permit for a cannabis cultivation site (unanimous). It also approved a $635,000 special benefit tax levy for the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (4‑1 vote). The 2026‑2030 Road and Bridge Improvement Plan was adopted unanimously. An agreement with Soldo Consulting Group for a sheriff's department investigation was approved (4‑1 vote).

• Approved Conditional Use Permit Special Use No. 6508 for cannabis cultivation (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 25-08-34: $635,000 HRA special benefit tax levy (4-1, Mahoney opposed)
• Approved 2026-2030 Road and Bridge Improvement Plan (unanimous)
• Approved agreement with Soldo Consulting Group for sheriff's department investigation (4-1, Pederson opposed)
• Approved removal of warrants 12473 and 12668 and payment of auditor and human services warrants (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Daycare grant for Jen Reigstad of Clontarf ($2,500) (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The board added a Board Member Code of Conduct item to the agenda and approved the agenda unanimously. It approved the consent agenda and all warrants, including Warrant No. 12668 with a 4‑1 vote. The board also unanimously approved a $57,500 loan to Go Set Ready Coffee, delegated authority to the Housing & Redevelopment Authority, renewed the Safe Assure service agreement, authorized the sale of a 2002 Ford F650 sign truck, and approved the Appleton OHV Park EDA project worksheet for bidding.

• Added Board Member Code of Conduct to agenda – approved unanimously
• Approved consent agenda and warrants (including removal of W12668) – approved unanimously
• Approved Warrant No. 12668 for Law Office of Richard Hodsdon – passed 4-1
• Approved $57,500 loan to Go Set Ready Coffee (10‑year, 7% interest) – approved unanimously
• Approved Resolution No. 25-09-35 delegating authority to Housing & Redevelopment Authority – approved unanimously
• Approved renewal of 2025‑2026 Safe Assure Service Agreement for $9,120.29 – approved unanimously
• Approved sale of 2002 Ford F650 Sign Truck – approved unanimously
• Approved Appleton OHV Park EDA Project Worksheet for bidding – approved unanimously

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding Ordinance 2025-01. The board is also reviewing the 2026 preliminary budget and employee benefits.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 2025-01: Swift County Wind, Solar, and Energy Storage Ordinance
• Resolution No. 25-09-36: Adopting Preliminary Swift County 2026 Levy
• Approval of 2024 audit by CliftonLarsonAllen
• Review of recommended 2026 employee benefits
• Tobacco license renewal for DG Retail LLC dba Dollar General Store of Appleton

The board approved the agenda after removing one item and adopted the consent agenda, including a tobacco license renewal. It opened and closed a public hearing on the Swift County Wind, Solar, and Energy Storage Ordinance and scheduled a follow‑up hearing for October 7. The 2024 county audit was approved, and a resolution set the 2026 preliminary levy at $15,113,686 (8%). The board also approved the recommended 2026 employee benefits and a $60,000 contract for interim bank‑reconciliation services.

• Approved agenda with removal of item (b) (unanimous)
• Adopted consent agenda, including tobacco license renewal (unanimous)
• Opened and closed public hearing on wind, solar, energy storage ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 Swift County audit as presented (unanimous)
• Approved recommended 2026 employee benefits (unanimous)
• Resolution No. 25-09-36 set 2026 preliminary levy at $15,113,686 (8%) (unanimous)
• Approved Abdo option #3 for 2025 bank reconciliations, not to exceed $60,000 (unanimous)
• Corrected misprint in September 2, 2025 minutes to reference August 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board of Commissioners will review several consent agenda items, including minutes from September 16, 2025, a Biennial Service Agreement with the Department of Children, Families and Youth for MFIP, an amendment to the Preliminary Swift County 2026 Levy, and new health insurance and COBRA rates effective Jan. 1, 2026. A public hearing will be held on Ordinance 2025-01, the Wind, Solar, and Energy Storage Ordinance. The board will also consider designating the Upper Minnesota Valley Regional Development Commission as the implementing entity for the county's Commercial PACE Loan Program and will approve an assistant county attorney appointment.

• Approve Biennial Service Agreement (2026‑2027) with Department of Children, Families and Youth for MFIP
• Amend Resolution 25‑09‑36 to adopt the Preliminary Swift County 2026 Levy
• Approve Resolution 25‑10‑37 setting health insurance & COBRA rates effective Jan. 1 2026
• Public hearing on Ordinance 2025‑01: Wind, Solar, and Energy Storage Ordinance
• Designate UMVRDC as implementing entity for Swift County Commercial PACE Loan Program (Resolution 25‑10‑38)

The board voted to award Heritage Exteriors a $42,000 contract to fix the Highway Administration Building roof, using Highway 2025 Reserves. It also approved hiring an Assistant County Attorney (4‑1) and an additional $9,345 payment for the Ditch Spraying project (unanimous). The Swift County Wind, Solar, and Energy Storage Ordinance and the Appleton OHV Park bid were both tabled for the October 21 meeting.

• Approved Heritage Exteriors $42,000 roof repair bid (unanimous)
• Approved hiring Assistant County Attorney, Step 10 Grade 20 (4‑1)
• Approved additional $9,345 payment for Ditch Spraying project (unanimous)
• Tabled Swift County Wind, Solar, and Energy Storage Ordinance until Oct 21 (4‑1)
• Tabled Appleton OHV Park EDA bid review until Oct 21 (unanimous)
• Approved UMVRDC as implementing entity for Commercial PACE Loan Program (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation of National 4‑H Week Oct 5‑11, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Commissioner, Auditor, and Human Service warrants (unanimous)

HRA-EDA Board Meeting

The Swift County HRA-EDA Board will meet to approve meeting minutes, financial reports, and a loan modification for The Whistle Stop. The board will also discuss a conflict of interest determination and legal interpretations regarding an Opt-in Resolution.

• Approve August 2025 HRA-EDA Board minutes
• Approve August financial reports and expenses
• Consider approval of loan modification for The Whistle Stop
• Local Housing Trust Fund Conflict of Interest Determination
• Consider legal interpretations regarding Opt-in Resolution

The board approved a six‑month loan modification at 7% interest for The Whistle Stop. It also approved moving forward with a Local Housing Trust Fund application despite a conflict of interest, with the conflicted member abstaining from future related votes. The board adopted the legal opinion from Mary Ippel on the opt‑in resolution, despite one dissenting vote.

• Approved 6‑month, 7% loan extension for The Whistle Stop (unanimous, 1 abstention)
• Approved moving forward with Local Housing Trust Fund application (unanimous, 1 abstention)
• Adopted legal opinion to follow opt‑in resolution (motion carried, 1 vote against)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved August 18, 2025 minutes and August financial reports (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

HRA-EDA Board Meeting

The Swift County HRA-EDA Board will review several action items, including a loan request for Go Set Ready Coffee, a maintenance contract, and engagement of MHP for technical assistance on Diamond Village. The board will also consider using SAHA funds to rehabilitate two HRA‑owned properties and will approve a new check‑writing policy. Information items include the annual housing trust fund report and updates to the strategic plan.

• Loan request for Go Set Ready Coffee
• Engage MHP for technical assistance and feasibility assessments for Diamond Village
• Approval to use SAHA funds for rehab of two HRA‑owned properties
• Approval of updated Check Writing Policy
• Maintenance contract approval

The Swift County HRA‑EDA board unanimously approved several items, including the agenda, consent agenda, a statement of work for the HRA audit, a maintenance contract, a $57,500 loan for Go Set Ready Coffee, and engagement of MHP for Diamond Village feasibility work. The board also approved use of SAHA funds for rehab of two HRA‑owned homes and tabled an updated check‑writing policy. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items (unanimous)
• Approved Statement of Work for HRA audit (unanimous)
• Approved maintenance contract (unanimous)
• Approved $57,500 loan to Go Set Ready Coffee (unanimous)
• Approved engagement of MHP for Diamond Village technical assistance (unanimous)
• Tabled updated Check Writing Policy (unanimous)
• Approved use of SAHA funds for rehab of two HRA‑owned properties (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board will vote on several routine items, including approval of meeting minutes and warrants. It will also consider updating Policy 503 to raise marriage license fees effective July 1, 2025. A key item is a $2,500 grant to Trudy Hoffman for a daycare egress window and floor improvements. The board will discuss strategic plan proposals before adjourning.

• Approve June 3, 2025, board meeting minutes
• Update Policy 503 to increase marriage license fees (effective 7‑1‑25)
• Grant $2,500 to Trudy Hoffman for daycare egress window and floor work
• Approve Commissioner and Auditor warrants
• Review and discuss strategic plan proposals

The board added two new items—approval of a liquor license renewal for the 104 Club in Sunburg and a tobacco license for Casey’s in Appleton—and approved the agenda with those additions, unanimously. The consent agenda, which included the June 3 meeting minutes, an updated Policy 503 on marriage license fees, a $2,500 daycare grant, and the two license renewals, was approved unanimously. The commissioners also approved all listed warrants, totaling $925,705.36, and the $425.23 reimbursement warrant, unanimously. No decision was made on the strategic‑planning consulting proposals, which will be revisited later.

• Added liquor license renewal for 104 Club (Sunburg) to agenda – approved unanimously
• Added tobacco license for Casey’s (Appleton) to agenda – approved unanimously
• Approved consent agenda items (minutes, Policy 503 update, $2,500 daycare grant, license renewals) – approved unanimously
• Approved all commissioner and auditor warrants totaling $925,705.36 – approved unanimously
• Approved reimbursement warrant for Danielle Olson $425.23 – approved unanimously

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board of Commissioners will consider approving a Capital Improvement Plan and the issuance of general obligation bonds not to exceed $5.1 million. The board will also review union positions and discuss labor negotiations strategy in a closed session.

• Resolution No. 25-07-26 for General Obligation Capital Improvement Plan Bonds up to $5,100,000
• Awarding clean out of County Ditch 62 Branch 4 to the lowest bidder
• Purchase of a tandem truck for 2026
• Annual Maintenance striping quote
• Updated Policy 503 regarding well disclosure fee increases effective 7-1-25

The board unanimously approved the meeting agenda with a public‑hearing item and the consent agenda correcting the June 17 minutes. Commissioners approved the warrant payments and adopted Resolution No. 25‑07‑26, giving preliminary approval for up to $5,100,000 in general‑obligation bonds (3‑2). They also awarded the County Ditch 62 clean‑out to the lowest bidder, approved a $39,328.88 striping contract, and adopted recommended grade and wage‑step increases for several staff positions.

• Approved agenda with public hearing addition (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda correcting June 17 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved commissioner and auditor warrants (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution No. 25‑07‑26 for up to $5,100,000 bonds (3‑2)
• Awarded County Ditch 62 Branch 4 clean‑out to Van Heuveln Farm Drainage for $7,165 (unanimous)
• Approved annual maintenance striping contract to Vogal Traffic Services for $39,328.88 (unanimous)
• Approved recommended grade increases and wage‑step start Jan 1 2026 for multiple positions (unanimous)
• Tabled decision on 2026 Mack tandem truck purchase pending further details (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board will approve meeting minutes, adopt the 2024 budget and levy, and review auditor warrants. Commissioners will receive updates from the SWCD and quarterly financial reports, and will discuss purchasing a tandem truck for 2026. A closed‑session will consider a motion to amend salaries for current elected officials and pending litigation. Potential closed meetings will address allegations against an individual under the board's authority.

• Approve July 1, 2025 Commissioner Board meeting minutes
• Adopt Swift County 2024 Budget & Levy (Resolution 25-07-27 amending 23-12-56)
• Review Auditor Warrants paid on 6/30/2025 and 07/10/2025
• Consider approving the purchase of a tandem truck for 2026
• Closed‑session motion to amend Resolution No. 24-12-49: adopt 2025 salaries for current elected officials

The Swift County Board amended Resolution 24-12-49 to adopt 2025 salaries for current elected officials, passing the motion 3-2. The board also approved the consent agenda, commissioner and auditor warrants, and a $282,600.37 purchase of a tandem truck. Several closed‑session motions were adopted, including one for labor‑negotiation strategy and another to discuss preliminary allegations against a county official.

• Amended Resolution 24-12-49 to adopt 2025 elected‑official salaries (3-2 vote)
• Approved consent agenda with Resolutions 25-07-28 and 25-07-29 (unanimous)
• Approved Commissioner and Auditor Warrants (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of tandem truck from iSTATE Truck Center for $282,600.37 (unanimous)
• Moved into closed session for labor‑negotiation strategy (motion carried)
• Moved into closed session to discuss wage‑appeal (10:01‑10:28, motion carried)
• Moved into closed session to discuss preliminary allegations against chief deputy Mike Hoffman (10:30‑11:24, unanimous)
• Approved agenda with two additional resolutions (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board will consider issuing a $5,031,000 general obligation bond for capital improvements and declaring a state of emergency. The meeting also includes approving consent items, reviewing a 2026-2030 road plan, and discussing a climate assessment proposal.

• Consider approving $5,031,000 GO Bond Series 2025A
• Consider approving Resolution 25-08-32: Declaring State of Emergency
• Consider approving 2026-2030 Road and Bridge Improvement plan
• Consider donating chain link fence to the County Fair
• Review and consider approving climate assessment proposal

The Swift County Board approved Resolution 25-08-30 to issue a $5,031,000 general obligation bond with a 3‑2 vote. It also unanimously adopted resolutions for veterans day appropriations, a state of emergency, and a fence donation. A 3‑2 vote approved an All‑One Health climate assessment contract. The 2026‑2030 Road and Bridge Improvement Plan was tabled until the next meeting.

• Approved $5,031,000 capital improvement bond (Resolution 25-08-30) – vote 3-2
• Approved veterans day observance appropriations (Resolution 25-08-31) – unanimous
• Approved state of emergency declaration (Resolution 25-08-32) – unanimous
• Approved All‑One Health climate assessment contract – vote 3-2
• Approved donation of chain‑link fence to County Fair – unanimous
• Tabled 2026‑2030 Road and Bridge Improvement Plan until Aug 19 – unanimous
• Approved new effective date for union compensation (July 1, 2025, excluding Child Support Officer) – unanimous
• Approved agenda amendment changing meeting time from 7:00 PM to 9:00 AM – unanimous

HRA-EDA Board Meeting

The Swift County HRA‑EDA Board will consider several actions, including updating bylaws, setting board per diem and mileage rates, and approving fee structures for the Small Cities Development Program. A key item is the vote on Resolution 2025‑02 to adopt the 2026 HRA Special Benefit Tax. The board will also decide on a $1,000 contribution to the West Central CEO Program and other administrative matters.

• Approve updated Swift County HRA bylaws and board member terms
• Establish HRA board per diem and mileage rates
• Approve Resolution 2025‑02 to adopt the 2026 HRA Special Benefit Tax
• Approve fees for the Small Cities Development Program
• Approve $1,000 contribution to the West Central CEO Program

The Swift County HRA‑EDA board unanimously approved revised bylaws and staggered board member terms. It also elected officers, set a $65 per‑diem and $0.70‑per‑mile mileage rate, and adopted several resolutions and financial actions, including depositories, program fees, bank account changes, and the 2026 Special Benefit Tax.

• Approved updated Swift County HRA bylaws and board member terms (unanimous)
• Approved officer nominations: President Laura Ostlie, Vice President Jim Just, Treasurer Paula Caldwell, Secretary Leanna Larson, Assistant Treasurer Leanna Larson, Loan Committee members Jim Just, Paula Caldwell, Tom Claussen (unanimous)
• Established board per diem at $65 per meeting and mileage at $0.70 per mile (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-01 to establish depositories (unanimous)
• Approved fees for the Small Cities Development Program as proposed (unanimous)
• Approved changes to Co‑Op Credit Union accounts: increase Leanna Larson’s credit‑card limit to $5,000, close several HRA and RDA accounts, retain other limits and online access (unanimous)
• Approved changes to Lake Central accounts: close HRA Local Housing Trust Fund Savings and HRA GMC Checking (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-02 to adopt the 2026 HRA Special Benefit Tax (unanimous)

Swift County HRA/RDA Joint Board Meeting

The joint board will review financial reports and discuss the 2026 budget. Members are deciding on updated demolition program guidelines and a specific demolition request for the City of Murdock.

• Demolition Request for the City of Murdock
• Updated Demolition Program guidelines
• Proposed 2026 budget review
• Administration fees for the Small Cities Development Program
• Cancellation of the RDA's D&O policy

The joint HRA/RDA board approved Resolution 06-17-2025, a $2,561.90 revolving loan, updated demolition program guidelines, and a $3,750 demolition request for the City of Murdock. The board also directed continued discussion on Small Cities Development Program administration fees, cancelled the RDA’s D&O policy, and approved the Swift County Toolkit with related GIS, online magazine, and forum printing quotes. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved Resolution 06-17-2025 (unanimous)
• Approved $2,561.90 loan at 2.0% APR for 5 years (unanimous)
• Approved updated Demolition Program guidelines (unanimous)
• Approved demolition request for City of Murdock for $3,750 (unanimous)
• Requested continued discussion on Small Cities Development Program administration fees (unanimous)
• Cancelled RDA’s D&O policy (unanimous)
• Approved Swift County Toolkit, GIS, online magazine and Forum printing quotes (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board of Commissioners will discuss infrastructure projects including the Appleton Trail Renovation and the BSSA Transmission Line. The board is also deciding on ditch repairs and liquor license applications.

• Resolution No. 25-05-23 for the Appleton Trail Renovation Project agreement
• Liquor license applications for Honebrink LLC (Brinks Beer Joint Bar & Grill) and 104 Club LLC
• Engineering service proposal for County Ditch 8 repair
• Partial clean out of County Ditch 62 branch 4 and Judicial Ditch 8
• Removal of redetermination of benefit interest from 16 parcels due to clerical error

The board unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda. It approved Resolution No. 25‑05‑23 for the Appleton Trail Renovation project. The board rejected the $1,657,306.65 bid from Joe Riley Construction for the OHV Park and directed a rebid. It also approved several ditch repair and maintenance actions and entered a closed session to discuss pending litigation.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Appleton Trail Renovation agreement (unanimous)
• Rejected OHV Park bid of $1,657,306.65 and ordered a rebid (unanimous)
• Approved engineering service proposal for County Ditch 8 repair ($51,200) (unanimous)
• Approved advertising for bids for partial cleanout of County Ditch 62, branch 4 (unanimous)
• Approved partial cleanout of Judicial Ditch 8 (unanimous)
• Approved removal of redetermination of benefit interest from listed parcels due to clerical error (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board of Commissioners will discuss financing for a Highway Shop and the issuance of General Obligation Capital Improvement Plan Bonds. The board is also reviewing agreements for field crossing and investment management services. Other items include a request to defer an HRA loan payment and a roof project for the Murdock outshop.

• Resolution 25-06-24 calling for a public hearing on the 5-year Capital Improvement Plan and bond sale
• Field Crossing Replacement Agreement between Rita Gallagher and Swift County
• Quote to redo Murdock outshop roof
• Highway Shop financing and Municipal Advisory Service Agreement with Northland Securities
• Abatement request to remove penalties from eight specific parcels

The board voted 3-2 to finance the Highway Shop Project through a loan from Lake Central Bank. It also approved the Municipal Advisory Service Agreement with Northland Securities and deferred the Swift County HRA loan payment until February 2026. Additional actions included approving a field‑crossing agreement, a roof replacement bid, and two resolutions related to capital‑improvement bonds and reimbursement bond procedures.

• Approved financing Highway Shop Project with Lake Central Bank (3-2)
• Approved Municipal Advisory Service Agreement with Northland Securities (unanimous)
• Approved deferring Swift County HRA loan payment until Feb 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved field crossing replacement agreement with Rita Gallagher (unanimous)
• Approved Heritage Exteriors bid $64,950 for Murdock Highway shop roof (unanimous)
• Denied abatement request for listed parcels (4-1)
• Approved Resolution No. 25-06-24 for public hearing on 5‑year capital improvement plan and bond issuance (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution No. 25-06-25 establishing reimbursement bond procedures (unanimous)

Swift County HRA/RDA Joint Board Meeting

The Joint Board will discuss demolition programs and the Diamond Village project. Members will consider several funding requests and the sale of a specific land parcel.

• Sale of parcel 23-0502-000 to Habitat for Humanity for $1
• Local Housing Trust Fund application from CS Nelson Properties
• Demolition request from the City of Appleton EDA
• Approval of 2025 Small Business grants
• Request to host a booth at the 2026 International Biomass Convention

The Swift County HRA/RDA Joint Board approved several actions, including the sale of parcel 23-0502-000 to Habitat for Humanity for $1, approval of demolition requests from Appleton pending program updates, and a $330,000 loan to CS Nelson Properties. It also authorized a deferral of the GraMar Court loan principal payment to February 2026, approved hosting a booth at the 2026 International Biomass Convention, and approved 2025 small‑business grants. All motions carried unanimously, with one board member abstaining on the demolition request due to a conflict of interest.

• Approved sale of parcel 23-0502-000 to Habitat for Humanity for $1 (unanimous)
• Approved demolition requests from the City of Appleton, contingent on updated demolition program (unanimous, one abstention)
• Approved Local Housing Trust Fund loan to CS Nelson Properties for $330,000 pending final financing (unanimous)
• Authorized Executive Director to request principal payment deferral on GraMar Court loan until Feb 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved hosting and purchasing a booth at the 2026 International Biomass Convention (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Small Business grants as presented, funds to be spent by 12/31/25 (unanimous)
• Approved Executive Director to gather additional information on Diamond Village property (unanimous)
• Approved updated demolition program guidelines to be reviewed at June 2025 meeting (no formal action taken)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss financing options for the Highway Shop. The board is also scheduled to review Swift County goals and the Strategic Plan.

• Highway Shop finance options
• Swift County goals/Strategic Plan

The commissioners unanimously approved the meeting agenda. They directed staff to draft request‑for‑proposals for financing the Highway Shop project, to be presented for formal approval at the April 15 board meeting. The board also asked Administrator Tomaschett to contact the U of M Extension about services for updating the county’s strategic plan.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Directed staff to draft financing RFPs for Highway Shop (to be reviewed April 15)
• Tasked Administrator Tomaschett to contact U of M Extension regarding strategic‑plan services

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board of Commissioners will review the annual performance of Administrator Tesa Tomaschett and consider a wage adjustment agreement. The board will also vote on several daycare grants and county policies.

• Resolution 25-02-18 regarding employment agreement and wage adjustment for Administrator Tesa Tomaschett
• Day Care Grant for Mikayla Wente of Benson for $937.34
• Day Care Grant for Angelyn Tolifson of Benson for $2,500
• Day Care Grant for Teresa Staton of Benson for $2,410
• Resolution 25-02-17: Appleton OHV Park Maintenance

The board unanimously approved several items, including adding agenda items, the consent agenda, and the Third‑Party Custodian Agreement. It also approved up to $2,000 from discretionary funds for employee recognition certificates and adopted Resolution 25‑02‑18 to adjust the County Administrator’s employment agreement wage. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved agenda additions (Third Party Custodian Agreement and $1,950 ETO request) (unanimous)
• Approved the Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Commissioner and Auditor Warrants paid on 1/30/2025 (unanimous)
• Approved the Third‑Party Custodian Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved up to $2,000 from discretionary funds for employee recognition certificates (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 25‑02‑18: Employment agreement wage adjustment for County Administrator Tesa Tomaschett (unanimous)
• Approved closed session to evaluate performance of County Administrator (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a conditional use permit for a tire sales and service facility. The agenda includes a public comment period regarding the Sheriff's Office UAV (Drone) Program and a presentation on the Swift Falls Park Master Plan.

• Conditional Use Permit for a tire sales and service facility
• Public comment for Sheriff's Office UAV (Drone) Program
• Fish and Wildlife Easement Certification with Blair Mace
• Swift Falls Park Master Plan Presentation
• Approval of Extension Committee members Tom Lye and Bonnie Kluver

The Swift County Board approved the Swift Falls Park Master Plan and authorized the supervisor to seek grants. It also approved a fish‑and‑wildlife easement, a conditional use permit for a tire facility, advertising for road projects, and financing terms for a $887,427.88 balance. The board entered and later ended a closed session, with all motions passing unanimously.

• Approved Fish and Wildlife Easement Certification for Thomas and Kathryn Arnold (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit No. 6441 for tire sales and service facility (unanimous)
• Approved advertising for projects SAP 076-606-050, reclamation on CSAH 6, and bridge replacement for Torning Township (unanimous)
• Approved financing terms for remaining balance $887,427.88 over 5 years at 5% (unanimous)
• Approved Swift Falls Park Master Plan and authorized grant applications (unanimous)
• Approved entering closed session to discuss pending litigation (unanimous)
• Approved ending closed session (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and consent agenda items (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board of Commissioners will consider several approvals, including a resolution for final payment on culvert replacements and minor grading. They will also review drainage bidding projects for 2025 and a purchase of farm equipment from the Highway Department. Additional items include bids for a Highway Shop building project and the Swift County Solid Waste Management Plan.

• Consider approving Resolution No. 25-03-19: Final Payment Culvert Replacements and Minor Grading SAP 076-606-049
• Consider approving Drainage Bidding Projects for 2025
• Consider approving the purchase of a tractor, seeder, and tiller from Swift County Highway Dept.
• Review and consider approving Highway Shop building project bids
• Consider approving Resolution No. 25-03-20: Swift County Solid Waste Management Plan

The board voted 3‑2 to accept Kue Contractors, Inc.’s lowest bid of $5,230,028 for the Highway Shop Building Project. It also approved several other items, including the final payment for culvert replacements, the start of bids for the 2025 Ditch Drainage Project, and the purchase of a tractor, seeder and tiller. Additionally, the board scheduled a workshop for March 25, 2025.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda, including Feb 18 2025 minutes, 2024 Feedlot Officer report, and Solid Waste Management Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Commissioner and Auditor Warrants (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution No. 25-03-19: Final Payment Culvert Replacements and Minor Grading (unanimous)
• Approved to start seeking bids for 2025 Ditch Drainage Project (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of tractor, seeder, and tiller from Highway Department (unanimous)
• Approved lowest bid $5,230,028 with Kue Contractors, Inc. for Highway Shop Building Project (3‑2)
• Approved Commissioner Board Workshop on March 25, 2025 (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board of Commissioners will review several consent agenda items, including the Emergency Management Grant contract and a related Homeland Security component. They will also consider a memorandum of understanding with AFSCME union groups on severance payouts for 2025 and appoint a youth member to the Extension Committee. Commissioner and auditor warrants will be approved and reviewed, and a public hearing on Swift County Ditch No. 8 will be held.

• Consider approving Emergency Management Grant Contract and Homeland Security
• Appointment of Extension Committee youth member Kaitlynn Lysen to a 2‑year term starting Jan 2025
• Consider approving MOU with AFSCME Courthouse & AFSCME Highway‑Environmental Services unions on 2025 severance payout
• Review Auditor Warrants paid on 3/10/2025
• Swift County Ditch No. 8 Public Hearing

The board approved the consent agenda and related warrants unanimously. It opened the public hearing for Swift County Ditch No. 8 and voted to adopt alternative two with a channel realignment, appointing H2Overviewers to monitor the work. The motion passed unanimously. A work session was scheduled for March 25, 2025.

• Approved consent agenda with MOU correction (unanimous)
• Approved commissioner and auditor warrants (unanimous)
• Opened Swift County Ditch #8 public hearing (unanimous)
• Adopted alternative two with channel realignment for Ditch #8 (unanimous)
• Appointed H2Overviewers to observe realignment (unanimous)
• Scheduled commissioner work session for March 25, 2025 (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board approved the consent agenda and commissioner warrants unanimously. It awarded the State Aid Project #076-606-050 to Duininck, Inc. for $2,875,977.55 after reviewing lower bids. The board also adopted two economic‑development resolutions, appointed Sheridan Giese as Upper Minnesota River Watershed manager, and accepted the Sauer Family Foundation grant.

• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved commissioner warrants (unanimous)
• Approved $2,875,977.55 contract with Duininck, Inc. for State Aid Project #076-606-050 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution No 25-04-21 adopting Economic Development Program recommendations (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution No 25-04-22 granting powers to the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (unanimous)
• Appointed Sheridan Giese as Manager for Upper MN River Watershed (unanimous)
• Accepted Sauer Family Foundation Family Resource Centers grant agreement (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss land acquisition and planning for the Appleton OHV Park. The board is also reviewing drainage project awards and financial reporting. Other items include compensation for a Parks & Drainage Technician and elected official salaries.

• Purchase of 30-acre parcel from The Appleton Project using FRTP Grant Dollars for OHV Park Expansion
• Request for Bid for the Appleton OHV Park Master Plan
• Approval of Drainage Project Recommended Awards
• RFPs for County Highway Shop Project
• Motion to amend Resolution No. 24-12-49 regarding 2025 salaries for elected officials

The board voted 3‑2 to amend Resolution 24‑12‑49, increasing the County Attorney’s salary to $135,000 retroactive to Jan 1 2025. It also approved the purchase of a 30‑acre parcel for an OHV park expansion using FRTP grant funds, and authorized a 5% temporary pay increase for the Parks & Drainage Technician pending a supervisor hire. Additional actions included approving bids for drainage projects, issuing RFPs for the County Highway Shop, and authorizing bids for the OHV Park Masterplan. The board decided to seek a consultant for a new strategic plan.

• Amended County Attorney salary to $135,000 retroactive Jan 1 2025 (passed 3‑2)
• Approved purchase of 30‑acre Appleton Project parcel for OHV park expansion (unanimous)
• Approved 5% temporary compensation for Parks & Drainage Technician, contingent on supervisor departure (unanimous)
• Approved bids for OHV Park Masterplan EDA Grant (unanimous)
• Approved recommended bids for Drainage Project (unanimous)
• Approved RFPs for County Highway Shop Project (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda including minutes, grants, and Mutual Use Agreement (unanimous)
• Decided to seek a consultant for a new strategic plan

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board will discuss several approvals, including a $44,000 grant for the Sauer Foundation Family Grant’s Explore and Assess Phase of Family Resource Centers. It will also review a 60‑month copier/printer renewal contract, conditional use permits for a venue and a mini‑storage expansion, and the purchase of a tractor for the Highway Department. Additional items include approval of meeting minutes, warrants, and various license applications.

• Approve $44,000 Community Consulting Agreement for Family Resource Centers grant
• Approve 60‑month copier/printer renewal contract with Coordinated Business Systems, Ltd.
• Conditional Use Permit for Jessica and Tyler Carlson to establish a venue
• Conditional Use Permit for Edit Storage, LLC to add another mini‑storage building
• Purchase of a tractor for the Highway Department

The board approved the purchase of a 2025 John Deere tractor for $148,000. It also approved two conditional use permits, a revised Housing and Redevelopment Authority board, and tax abatements for two parcels. The donation to the Swift County Sheriff’s Office drone program and its removal from the consent agenda were both approved. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved removal of Swift County Sheriff's Office drone program “Swift Skies” from consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved donation to Swift County Sheriff's Office drone program “Swift Skies” (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit #6470 for a venue events location (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit Amendment #6473 for Edit Storage, LLC mini‑storage building (unanimous)
• Approved revised Housing and Redevelopment Authority Board effective July 1 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of a 2025 John Deere tractor for $148,000 (unanimous)
• Approved tax abatement for parcel 09‑0053‑100 correcting a $3,242 bill (unanimous)
• Approved tax abatement for parcel 28‑0206‑000 correcting a $4,388 bill (unanimous)

Swift County HRA/RDA Joint Board Meeting

The Swift County HRA and RDA joint board unanimously approved the agenda, the March 17 meeting minutes, March financial reports for both agencies, and a lawn care contract with Black Diamond Industries LLC. No action was taken on the draft HRA bylaws. The meeting adjourned at 5:50 p.m.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 17, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved March HRA financial reports and expenses (unanimous)
• Approved March RDA & GROW financial reports (unanimous)
• Approved Lawn Care Contract with Black Diamond Industries LLC (unanimous)
• No action taken on draft HRA bylaws

Swift County HRA/RDA Joint Board Meeting

The Swift County Housing and Redevelopment Authorities Joint Board will consider approving meeting minutes, financial reports, and per diem rates for 2025. The board will also conduct annual elections for both the HRA and RDA.

• Approve January 2025 HRA/RDA meeting minutes
• Approve HRA pledge agreement with BMO Bank
• HRA and RDA annual elections
• Establish 2025 per diem and mileage rates
• Discuss Swift County RDA Small Business Grant Program

The joint HRA/RDA board approved the meeting agenda, minutes, and financial reports for both agencies. It set new per‑diem and mileage rates for HRA and RDA members and approved applications for the Bring It Home MN grant and the Minnesota Housing Partnership’s Housing Institute. The board also approved the Kerkhoven Child Care Quest Contest and established regular joint meeting dates. Two items – a small‑business grant draft and a board‑merger discussion – were considered but no formal action was taken.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimously)
• Approved January 2025 HRA and RDA minutes (unanimously)
• Approved HRA pledge agreement with BMO Bank (unanimously)
• Approved HRA per‑diem $50 members, $75 chair, mileage $0.70/mile (unanimously)
• Approved RDA per‑diem $59 per meeting, mileage $0.70/mile (unanimously)
• Approved submission of Bring It Home MN grant application (unanimously)
• Approved application to Minnesota Housing Partnership’s Housing Institute (unanimously)
• Approved Kerkhoven Child Care Quest Contest and judge nominations (unanimously)

Swift County HRA/RDA Joint Board Meeting

The Joint Board will hold a public hearing regarding its 5-Year Plan. Members will also consider updates to the Section 8 Administration Plan and a small business grant program.

• Public hearing regarding 5-Year Plan
• Proposed updates for Section 8 Administration Plan
• Proposed Swift County RDA Small Business Grant Program
• Consideration of a revolving loan
• Proposal from CliftonLarsonAllen

The Swift County HRA and RDA joint board approved the 5-Year Plan and the Annual Civil Rights Certification. They also approved updates to the Section 8 Administration Plan, a revolving loan, the Small Business Grant Program, and a proposal from CliftonLarsonAllen for accounting services. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Approved 5-Year Plan and Annual Civil Rights Certification (unanimous)
• Approved updates to Section 8 Administration Plan (unanimous)
• Approved revolving loan after bank denial (unanimous)
• Approved Swift County RDA Small Business Grant Program (unanimous)
• Approved CliftonLarsonAllen accounting proposal for HRA Phase 1, RDA Phase 2, shared Phase 3 costs (unanimous)

Swift County HRA/RDA Joint Board Meeting

The Swift County HRA/RDA Joint Board will vote on a rent increase for the HRA program in 2025. It will also discuss a Federal Home Loan Bank grant application and consider a contract with the Upper Minnesota Valley Regional Development Commission. Additional items include a rent increase for the GROW program and a tenant pet request.

• Consider approving HRA 2025 Rent Increase
• Discussion regarding Federal Home Loan Bank grant application
• Consider approval of contract with the Upper Minnesota Valley Regional Development Commission
• Consider approving GROW 2025 Rent Increase
• Consider tenant pet request

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the 2025 County Ditch Levy and review a county audit update from CliftonLarsonAllen. The agenda also includes votes on security and information policies and the review of commissioner and auditor warrants.

• Approval of 2025 County Ditch Levy
• Approval of CliftonLarsonAllen County Audit
• Revised Human Services Policy 1.310 Federal Information Security
• Approval of Visitor and Security Policy number 512
• Discussion on pesticide container recycling

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board will consider several financial and policy items. It will vote on a health insurance premium holiday for employees and employers for December 2024. It will also consider two resolutions: one for a final payment to SealCoat and another to allow the County Auditor‑Treasurer to sell state tax‑forfeited lands at public auction. Additionally, the board will approve commissioner and auditor warrants.

• Approve Health Insurance premium holiday for employee & employer for full month of December 2024
• Approve Resolution No. 24-11-45 Final Payment - SAP 076-030-005 - SealCoat
• Approve Resolution 24-11-44 to offer state tax‑forfeited lands for sale at public auction
• Approve Commissioner warrants
• Approve Auditor warrants for payments on 10/30/2024 and 10/31/2024

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review the 2025 budget and a draft ordinance regarding cannabis-oriented businesses and land use. The body will also consider several 2025 service contracts and a merger request for the HRA and RDA boards.

• Review of Draft 2024-01 Cannabis Oriented Business and Land Use Ordinance
• Review of 2025 Budget
• Daycare Grant for Prairie Playhouse for $3,464.58 for gymnasium wall padding
• Merger request for HRA & RDA Boards
• 2025 contracts for Family Based and Adoption Services, Semi-Independent Living Services, and Heartland Girls Ranch

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board of Commissioners will vote on several resolutions, including the adoption of the 2025 final budget and levy. Other items include setting salaries for elected officials and commissioners, approving a road and bridge improvement plan, and a public hearing on the second reading of the Cannabis Oriented Business and Land Use Ordinance. The meeting also covers contract approvals and routine administrative matters.

• Adopt Resolution 24-12-50: Swift County 2025 Final Budget and Levy
• Adopt Resolution 24-12-49: 2025 Salaries for Currently Elected Officials
• Adopt Resolution 24-12-48: Set Swift County Board of Commissioners Salaries for 2025
• Public hearing on second reading of Swift County Ordinance 2024-01: Cannabis Oriented Business and Land Use Ordinance
• Approve 2025‑2029 Road and Bridge Improvement plan

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting to establish leadership and operational resolutions for 2025. Key items include the adoption of a cannabis-oriented business and land use ordinance and the appointment of a County Medical Examiner.

• Swift County Ordinance 2024-01: Cannabis Oriented Business and Land Use Ordinance
• Resolution 25-01-03: Appointing a County Medical Examiner
• Resolution 25-01-14: Final payment for Appleton/DNR Trail
• Approval of 2025 Rinke Noonan Fee Schedule
• Updated Policy 503 regarding posted licenses, fees, and service charges for 2025

Board of Commissioners

The Swift County Board of Commissioners will approve warrants, a consent agenda including a tobacco license and a county administrator designation, and hear a presentation from the Swift County Hospital Board. The meeting will also include a request to set a public hearing for County Ditch #8 repairs.

• Approval of Commissioner and Auditor warrants
• Approval of tobacco license for Danvers Liquor, LLC
• Approval of Resolution No. 25-01-16 for county administrator as Identified Official with Authority
• Request to set Public Hearing for County Ditch #8 repair project
• Presentation of Highway Shop plans from Wold Architects and Engineers

Swift County HRA/RDA Joint Board Meeting

The Swift County HRA/RDA Joint Board will meet to discuss administrative updates and program agreements. The board is considering the adoption of updated HRA Bylaws and participation in the Minnesota City Participation Program.

• Adoption of updated HRA Bylaws
• Participation in the Minnesota City Participation Program
• Snow Removal Contract for Eric Nohrenberg
• Memorandum of Agreement with First Children's Finance
• Potential transfer of GROW building

Swift County HRA/RDA Joint Board Meeting

The Swift County HRA/RDA Joint Board will review several action items, including an audit presentation and multiple residential demolition projects. They will also discuss appointing representatives for a local committee on the HRA/RDA merger. The meeting includes standard consent agenda items and informational updates.

• Swift County HRA FYE24 audit presentation by Doug Host, CLA
• Residential demolition project at 203 Atlantic Ave, DeGraff
• Residential demolition program at 302 5th St S, DeGraff
• Residential demolition request at 32 N Haven, Appleton
• Consider appointing representatives for a local committee to address the HRA/RDA merger