Wadena County public meetings in 2025

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board will review a mix of consent agenda items—including warrants, several grant approvals, and a building‑cleaning services contract—and regular agenda items such as solid‑waste contracts and transportation resolutions. Key decisions include a request for state funding for a 40‑bed non‑secure juvenile facility in Clay County and a resolution supporting a 2030 federal transportation project application. Additional items cover a public‑health mass‑dispensing agreement with local schools and the renewal of the highway department’s cleaning contract.

• Resolution 2025-64: Request for state funding for a 40‑bed non‑secure juvenile facility in Clay County
• Resolution 2025-61: Support for 2030 federal transportation project application
• Highway Department renewal of building cleaning services contract
• Licensed Solid Waste Hauler 2026 contract
• Public Health Mass Dispensing Local Agreement with local schools

The commissioners approved a 3‑year solid‑waste transport contract for Layman Excavating, ending the existing contract with Becker Transport (vote 4‑1). They also rescinded the November 18 amendment to the Crow Wing River Watershed Implementation Agreement and approved several funding and service contracts, including federal roadway resurfacing support, a mass‑notification system, and a Microsoft 365 licensing upgrade. All other motions were carried unanimously.

• Awarded 3‑year solid waste transport contract to Layman Excavating, terminating Becker Transport (4‑1)
• Approved Solid Waste and Recycling Hauler License for Hough Inc. (unanimous)
• Rescinded amendment to Crow Wing River Watershed Implementation Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑61 supporting federal funding for a 6‑mile roadway resurfacing project (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑64 supporting state funding for a 40‑bed non‑secure juvenile facility in Clay County (unanimous)
• Approved 5‑year mass notification contract with Rave Alert (Motorola) for $20,000 (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of Microsoft 365 licensing via Marco Technologies (unanimous)
• Approved $62,001.47 security access‑control upgrades for courthouse and Human Services building (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board will consider approving the 2026 final levy and budget, along with contracts for law enforcement and payroll processing. The meeting also includes updates on a roundabout project and the designation of polling places for the 2026 election.

• Approval of 2026 Final Levy and Budget
• Approval of Law Enforcement Contract with City of Verndale
• Designating Polling Places for 2026 Election
• 2028 CSAH 17-TH 71 Roundabout - 5 Year Project Plan Update
• Paycom 3 Year Agreement

The commissioners unanimously approved several contracts and policies, including a $50,000 HBI RMS grant, a law‑enforcement contract with the City of Verndale that brings $101,400 in revenue, solid‑waste recycling licenses, a three‑year Paycom agreement, and the Paid Family Medical Leave policy. They also authorized $80,000 of annual solid‑waste committed funds (3‑2 vote) and lowered minimum bid prices for several tax‑forfeited parcels. The board approved the final levy of $12,012,150 and set the 2026 budget at $33,013,960, each passing 3‑2. The roundabout project on CSAH 17 at TH 71/TH 87 was approved unanimously.

• Approved $50,000 HBI RMS grant (unanimous)
• Approved Law Enforcement Contract with City of Verndale ($101,400 revenue) (unanimous)
• Authorized $80,000 annual solid waste committed fund (3-2)
• Approved 2026 Solid Waste and Recycling License for G&T Sanitation (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Solid Waste and Recycling License for 5 Star Disposal (unanimous)
• Approved 3‑year Paycom agreement, capping rate increases at 3% per year (unanimous)
• Approved Paid Family Medical Leave Policy (unanimous)
• Approved 2025/2026 Final Levy of $12,012,150 (3-2)

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners will meet to review a Truth in Taxation presentation. The meeting includes a period for citizen comments, though no board action will be taken on those items.

• Truth In Taxation Presentation

The board presented information on the 2026 budget and the preliminary levy of $12,494,490, a 13.28% increase county‑wide. Commissioners noted discussions to reduce the levy to under 9.5% before the final levy is presented at the December 16 board meeting. A motion to adjourn was made and carried unanimously.

• Motion to adjourn carried unanimously

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board of Commissioners will approve consent agenda items including meeting minutes, warrants, and Human Services 2025 budget amendments. Regular agenda items include proposals to update the Comprehensive Plan, discussion of workplace relations, a review of Deputy County Administrator compensation, and a report from the Interim County Administrator.

• Approve minutes from the November 18, 2025 meeting
• Approve Human Services 2025 budget amendments
• Consider Comprehensive Plan update proposals
• Review Deputy County Administrator compensation
• Hear Interim County Administrator report

The commissioners approved the day's agenda and the consent agenda, including corrected November 18 minutes. They voted 3‑1 to approve a $20,050 Comprehensive Plan update from Hometown Planning LLC, to adopt a Workplace Relations Document, and to increase the Deputy County Administrator's salary by 4% to $18,928. The board also requested a short video introduction of Michael Czymbor for the next meeting and adjourned unanimously.

• Approved the day's agenda (unanimous)
• Approved the consent agenda and corrected November 18 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Comprehensive Plan proposal $20,050 split 50/50 between MCIT Dividend Fund and Restricted Fund ISTS 2806 (3-1)
• Adopted Workplace Relations Document (3-1)
• Approved 4% salary increase for Deputy County Administrator to $18,928 (3-1)
• Requested short video introduction of Michael Czymbor for 12/16/25 meeting
• Adjourned meeting at 5:05 p.m. (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board of Commissioners Budget Committee will meet on Tuesday, November 24, 2025 at the county courthouse in the Small Courtroom, 415 Jefferson St S, Wadena. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss any budgetary items that are presented. The meeting notice is signed by County Auditor/Treasurer Heather Olson. No specific agenda items are listed.

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board will hold a public hearing on housing tax abatements at 9:15 a.m. They will also discuss Nimrod Road, review a CLC memorandum of understanding, and consider comprehensive plan update proposals. Consent agenda items include warrants, employee updates, the 2025 second‑half allocation for the Kitchigami Regional Library System, and financial reports.

• Public hearing on housing tax abatements (9:15 a.m.)
• Discussion of Nimrod Road
• Review of CLC memorandum of understanding (MOU)
• Consideration of comprehensive plan update proposals
• Approval of 2025 2nd‑half allocation for Kitchigami Regional Library System

The board unanimously approved the agenda and consent agenda. It authorized a developer‑cost survey of road access on Sleepy Hollow Lane and the conveyance of the parcel to the City of Nimrod for public road designation. The board also approved a memorandum of understanding with Central Lakes College and housing tax abatements for two parcels.

• Approved the day's agenda (unanimous)
• Approved the consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved road access survey and parcel conveyance for Nimrod (unanimous)
• Approved Memorandum of Understanding with Central Lakes College (unanimous)
• Approved housing tax abatement for parcel 01.012.1020 (unanimous)
• Approved housing tax abatement for parcel 12.019.1040 (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board of Commissioners will meet to conduct a JD3 Joint Drainage Authority Meeting. The agenda consists primarily of procedural items and this single regular agenda item.

• JD3 Joint Drainage Authority Meeting

The board unanimously approved the meeting agenda and later adjourned the session. In the JD3 Joint Drainage Authority meeting, the board decided that County Engineer Anthony Maule will provide Cass County with Wadena County records to establish the original dimensions of Judicial Ditch No. 3. Cass County Commissioner Neal Gaalswyk will take the information to the Cass County Board, and Administrator Josh Stevenson will keep Wadena County updated on progress.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment of JD3 meeting (unanimous)
• Engineer Anthony Maule will provide Cass County with original ditch dimension records
• Commissioner Neal Gaalswyk will present records to Cass County Board
• Administrator Josh Stevenson will inform Wadena County of Cass County’s progress

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board of Commissioners will meet on November 18, 2025 to approve a range of routine and special items. Among the regular agenda items is a police coverage contract with the City of Verndale, along with amendments to the Crow Wing Watershed Implementation Agreement and a final plat for Blueberry Lands LLC. The meeting also includes consent‑agenda approvals for minutes, warrants, 2026 tobacco licenses, and final payments on several county projects.

• Police Coverage Contract – City of Verndale
• Amendment to Crow Wing Watershed Implementation Agreement
• Final Plat approval for Blueberry Lands LLC
• Final payments for CP 080-101-015, SP 080-606-010, and SAP 080-610-002
• 2026 salaries for elected and appointed officials

The commissioners approved the final Platt for Blueberry Lands, allowing 30‑40 new housing units, and adopted several contracts and resolutions including a water‑heater purchase, a watershed‑agreement amendment, a draft police contract with Verndale, and salary settings for county officials. They also approved final payments on highway projects, a transit driver grade change, winterization of the Bell Hill property, and the formation of a joint ditch authority.

• Approved final Platt for Blueberry Lands, LLC (adds 30‑40 housing units) – unanimous
• Approved water heater purchase from J‑Brothers Mechanical for $12,216.00 – unanimous
• Approved amendment to Crow Wing River Watershed Management Plan – unanimous
• Approved draft police coverage contract with City of Verndale – unanimous
• Approved moving transit drivers to Grade 4 upon CDL acquisition – unanimous
• Approved final payment to Kern & Tabery Inc. $47,485.34 – unanimous
• Approved 2026 salary of $90,619 for County Recorder (4‑1 vote) – motion carried
• Approved formation of Joint Ditch Authority for County Ditch 2 – unanimous

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board of Commissioners will consider the Annual Opioid Fund Allocation and approve the final payment for SAP 080‑623‑024 under Resolution 2025‑55. The meeting also includes updates on the Maple River to Cuyuna 345 kV transmission line project, a water heater purchase for the courthouse, and a request for a private crossing (JD3). Consent agenda items such as minutes, warrants, and several contracts will be approved without discussion.

• Annual Opioid Fund Allocation (ANNUAL OPIOID FUND ALLOCATION.PDF)
• Approval of Final Payment for SAP 080‑623‑024 (RESOLUTION 2025‑55.PDF)
• Update on Maple River to Cuyuna 345 kV Transmission Line Project
• Water Heater purchase for the courthouse
• Request for Private Crossing JD3

The commissioners unanimously approved the County Highway Department’s 5‑year project plan. They also approved several equipment and service contracts, including a water heater for the courthouse, a final payment to a construction firm, and purchases for a new snowplow truck, cab/chassis, and batwing mower. The board voted 3‑2 to approve a private crossing at Judicial Ditch 3, and unanimously authorized $1,800 for an opioid detection canine program at Sebeka Schools.

• Approved water heater purchase $9,035.82 plus $2,586 labor (unanimous)
• Approved final payment $46,761.35 to Anderson Brothers Construction (unanimous)
• Approved purchase agreement for tandem‑axle cab and chassis $160,833.00 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase agreement for snowplow truck components $185,405.00 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of batwing mower $25,049.00 (unanimous)
• Approved $1,800 opioid detection canine funding for Sebeka Schools (unanimous)
• Approved 5‑year Highway Department project plan (unanimous)
• Approved construction of 2" crossing at Location B, pending landowner documentation (3‑2)

County Commissioners

The board issued a quorum notice stating that commissioners may attend the AMC District 4 Fall Meeting Policy Conference on Friday, October 31, 2025. The conference will be held at the Ottertail County Government Services Building, 500 Fir Ave W, Fergus Falls, MN. No other business or decisions are listed for this meeting.

• Quorum notice: possible attendance at AMC District 4 Fall Meeting Policy Conference

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the management of the Event Center. The meeting also includes a period for citizen comments.

• Discussion on the management of the Event Center

The commissioners unanimously approved the meeting agenda and later adjourned the meeting. The Board formally requested that Friends of Wadena County Youth (FOWCY) present a management plan and draft resolution for the fairgrounds Event Center by the end of the year. Commissioner Winkels agreed to serve on the committee working on the FOWCY lease.

• Approved the meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Requested FOWCY submit event‑center management plan and draft resolution by year‑end
• Commissioner Winkels agreed to join the lease committee
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The board issued a quorum notification for the annual township meeting on October 21, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. at the Sebeka Senior Center, 104 Minnesota Ave E, Sebeka, MN. Commissioners may attend, but the board will not take any action or vote during this event. The notice was signed by Heather Olson, County Auditor/Treasurer Clerk of the Board on October 14, 2025.

• Quorum notification – no action or votes will be taken

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board of Commissioners will approve the October 7, 2025 meeting minutes and the Human Services warrants. They will receive reports on Human Services statistics, the PLSS grant, and updates on zoning ordinance considerations, policy, and the Child Protection Team bylaws. The board will also review the County Administrator position description, the administrator search, county ditch information, and an interim administrator report. No formal actions are scheduled for citizen comments.

• Approval of 10.07.2025 meeting minutes
• Approval of 10-21-2025 Human Services warrants
• Human Services statistical reports
• PLSS grant update
• Zoning ordinance considerations

The commissioners unanimously approved the agenda and consent items, including a $39,805.50 human services warrant. They authorized the use of the remaining $45,035.56 PLSS grant to continue section‑corner re‑monumentation westward. The board also adopted policy language changes to Articles 10, 29 and 30, approved Child Protection Team bylaws, and selected SGR to lead the search for a new County Administrator, with the anticipated start date of March 1 2026. Additionally, the budget meeting was rescheduled to November 14.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda, including $39,805.50 human services warrants (unanimous)
• Approved use of PLSS Grant extension for section‑corner re‑monumentation westward (unanimous)
• Approved language changes to Articles 10, 29 and 30 effective 01/01/2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Child Protection Team bylaws and charter (unanimous)
• Chosen SGR to lead County Administrator search, start date 03/01/2026 (unanimous)
• Moved budget meeting to November 14 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings regarding housing tax abatements and an obstruction issue for Judicial Ditch 3. The meeting includes a proposal for a countywide hiring freeze and an update on the Administrator position.

• Proposal for countywide hiring freeze
• Public hearing for housing tax abatement
• Public hearing for Judicial Ditch 3 obstruction
• Wadena Twp donation for CR101 Trail
• 2026-2027 County MFIP Biennial Service Agreement

The commissioners approved the meeting agenda after removing Item G and then adopted the consent agenda, which included $815,536.59 in auditor warrants. They unanimously approved a housing tax abatement for Parcel 22-590-0100. The board also ordered the landowner to remove added rocks and replace a 24" culvert with a 48" culvert on Judicial Ditch 3 by July 1, 2026, and to execute a Hold Harmless Agreement. The meeting was adjourned at 11:20 a.m.

• Approved today's agenda after pulling Item G (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items, including $815,536.59 auditor warrants (unanimous)
• Approved housing tax abatement for Parcel 22-590-0100 (unanimous)
• Ordered landowner to remove rocks and replace 24" culvert with 48" culvert on Judicial Ditch 3 by 07/01/2026 and execute Hold Harmless Agreement (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:20 a.m. (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board will consider routine consent agenda items, including approval of September meeting minutes and warrants. The regular agenda includes a petition from the Planning Commission to amend Zoning Ordinance #1, a public fee hearing on the preliminary October 2025 fee schedule, and approval to replace the courthouse water heater. The board will also review an extension lease for the Event Center and hear the interim County Administrator report.

• Petition of Planning Commission and resolution to amend Zoning Ordinance #1
• Public fee hearing on Wadena County preliminary fee schedule (October 2025)
• Approval of replacement water heater for the courthouse
• Extension lease and management agreement for the Event Center
• Approval of HS and Auditor warrants

The commissioners approved Resolution 2025‑46 to amend Zoning Ordinance #1, adding a free administrative permit for on‑premise signs larger than 32 sq ft. The amendment passed with a 4‑to‑1 vote. The board also approved a courthouse water‑heater replacement up to $11,000 and adopted changes to the public fee schedule, both unanimously.

• Approved amendment to Zoning Ordinance #1 (Resolution 2025‑46) – 4‑to‑1 vote (Kangas‑no, Winkels‑yes, Stearns‑yes, Noon‑yes, Kreklau‑yes)
• Approved replacement of courthouse water heater, cost not to exceed $11,000 – unanimous
• Approved changes to the Public Fee Schedule – unanimous
• Approved Consent Agenda (minutes, warrants, employment update, etc.) – unanimous
• Accepted Employee Update and Draft Condensed Planning Commission Minutes – unanimous
• Approved agenda amendment to add fairgrounds Event Center plumbing update – unanimous
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board will consider a data inventory report and review the 2026 Preliminary Levy. The County Administrator will provide a discussion, and the board will hold a priorities discussion with state legislators at 1:30 PM. No formal actions are listed for these items.

• Data Inventory (PDF)
• 2026 Preliminary Levy (PDF)
• County Administrator Discussion
• County Priorities Discussion With Legislators (1:30 PM)

The commissioners unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the 2025 Master Inventory of Not Public Data on Individuals. They approved Resolution 2025-42 and the 2026 Preliminary Budget and Levy totaling $12,494,490 with a 4‑to‑1 vote. The board reached consensus to start a search for a new County Administrator using a search firm beginning Jan 1 2026, with a salary range of $140,000‑$160,000 and a target start date of March 1 2026. They also unanimously extended Interim County Administrator Heather Olson with a $1,000 monthly stipend until a permanent hire is made.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Master Inventory of Not Public Data (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-42 and 2026 Preliminary Budget and Levy at $12,494,490 (4‑1)
• Consensused to begin search for County Administrator with search firm Jan 1 2026, salary $140k‑$160k, start target Mar 1 2026
• Extended Interim County Administrator Heather Olson with $1,000 monthly stipend (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board of Commissioners will hold a road tour on September 25, 2025, to review county highway facilities. The meeting will be held on a mobile bus departing from the Highway Department building at 221 Harry Rich Dr. No official action or votes will be taken during this event.

• Road tour of county highway facilities
• Departure from Highway Department at 221 Harry Rich Dr.
• No action or votes will be taken during the event

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss transportation funding and sheriff's office grants. The board is also reviewing the purchase of a recycling truck and public health staffing trials.

• Resolution 2025-45: Continuation of Wadena County Transportation Sales Tax
• Approval to purchase recycling hook lift truck
• Sheriff TZD Grant
• Sheriff Sourcewell Impact Funding
• Bridge 80509

The board unanimously approved the continuation of the County Transportation Sales Tax (Resolution 2025‑45). It also approved the consent agenda, authorized a notice to a landowner about a Judicial Ditch 3 obstruction, and permitted a landowner to clean Judicial Ditch 4 at his own expense. The commissioners approved $50,000 for traffic barriers on Bridge 80509, approved design‑service proposals for its replacement, and authorized payment of utilities for the fairgrounds event center from the non‑levied Building Fund. Additional approvals included a $50,000 Sourcewell public‑safety funding application and a $39,700 Toward Zero Deaths traffic‑enforcement grant.

• Approved Consent Agenda (auditor and human services warrants, recycling truck purchase, staff trial) – unanimous
• Authorized County Engineer to send JD3 obstruction notice to landowner – unanimous
• Allowed landowner to clean Judicial Ditch 4 at own expense – unanimous
• Approved purchase of $50,000 traffic barriers for Bridge 80509 – unanimous
• Approved request for design proposals for Bridge 80509 replacement – unanimous
• Approved Resolution 2025‑45 to continue County Transportation Sales Tax – unanimous
• Approved Sheriff’s Office to apply for up to $50,000 Sourcewell Impact Funding – unanimous
• Approved payment of fairgrounds event center utilities from non‑levied Building Fund – unanimous

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the county transportation sales tax. They will consider purchasing a recycling hook lift truck and adopt a solid waste market price resolution. The board will discuss the 2026 county budget and approve the sale of county parcels and tax‑forfeited parcels with set minimum bids. A low‑income septic system replacement grant for PID 14‑015‑3010 will also be approved.

• Public hearing on Wadena County Transportation Sales Tax
• Approval to purchase a recycling hook lift truck
• Adoption of Solid Waste Market Price Resolution
• Discussion of the 2026 County Budget
• Approval of sale of Wadena County parcels and tax‑forfeited parcels with minimum bids

The commissioners voted unanimously to select Medica as the county's health insurance provider for 2026, citing cost savings. They also approved the solid‑waste market‑price resolution, set minimum bids for several tax‑forfeited parcels, and transferred one parcel to the City of Sebeka for $1. Additional actions included approving the cafeteria cost‑share split and authorizing the auction of tax‑forfeited parcels.

• Approved Medica as 2026 health insurance carrier (unanimous)
• Approved Solid Waste Market Price Resolution 2025‑41 (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of parcel 19.440.0180 to City of Sebeka for $1 (unanimous)
• Approved minimum bid $500 for parcel 03.014.1260 (unanimous)
• Approved minimum bid $40,000 for parcel 07.032.3030 (unanimous)
• Approved minimum bid $10,000 for parcel 13.001.2020 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑39 to auction tax‑forfeited parcels (unanimous)
• Approved 50/50 cafeteria dollar split for premium changes (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The board scheduled a regular meeting for September 12, 2025. Commissioners may attend the AMC Fall Policy Conference at Arrowwood Resort in Alexandria, MN, from September 10‑12. The meeting’s purpose is to consider any business presented.

• Potential attendance at AMC Fall Policy Conference (Sept 10‑12) at Arrowwood Resort, 2100 Arrowwood Lane, Alexandria, MN

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board of Commissioners issued a meeting notice for September 11, 2025. The notice indicates commissioners may attend the AMC Fall Policy Conference at Arrowwood Resort in Alexandria, MN, from September 10‑12, 2025. No specific agenda items or actions are listed for the meeting.

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board of Commissioners announced that they may attend the AMC’s Fall Policy Conference from September 10 to 12, 2025. The conference will be held at the Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center, 2100 Arrowwood Lane, Alexandria, MN. No other business items were listed for this meeting.

• Potential attendance at AMC Fall Policy Conference, Sep 10‑12, 2025, Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center, 2100 Arrowwood Lane, Alexandria, MN

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board will approve several consent agenda items, including minutes, auditor warrants, and financial reports. Regular agenda items include waste management, construction and demolition rulemaking, a regional transportation plan update, a water service quote for the 4H building, and two resolutions: one affirming county roads and another approving the final payment for project SP 080-601-007. The meeting will also include an interim county administrator report and a closed session for attorney‑client privileged matters.

• Approval of final payment for SP 080-601-007 (Resolution 2025-37)
• Resolution affirming county roads (Resolution 2025-38)
• Construction and demolition rulemaking
• 4H Building water service quote
• Waste Management WDA

The board unanimously approved a five‑year Waste Delivery Agreement with Waste Management of Minnesota. It also authorized the Solid Waste Director to submit a comment letter on construction‑demolition landfill rules. A $19,288 water‑service contract for the 4H building was approved by a 3‑to‑2 vote. Several parcels were listed for sale and a memorandum of agreement with the International Union of Operating Engineers was adopted.

• Approved five‑year Waste Delivery Agreement with Waste Management (unanimous)
• Authorized submission of Construction and Demolition rulemaking comment letter (unanimous)
• Awarded 6" water service contract to J&J Excavating for $19,288.00 (3‑2 vote)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑38 affirming county roads (unanimous)
• Approved final payment to M&K Bridge Construction, Inc. $47,038.40 (unanimous)
• Listed four county parcels for sale on PublicSurplus.com with up to $5,000 advertising budget (unanimous)
• Included parcel 05.016.2035 for sale at $4,000 (unanimous)
• Approved Memorandum of Agreement with IUOE Local 49 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The commissioners approved a $184,700 contract with Hammers Construction to rebuild the west wall of the Wensman Building, passing 3‑2. They also approved agreements for bulk diesel fuel delivery and bulk road salt purchase, both unanimously. The board authorized the request for quotes to install a six‑inch water line for the event center, and moved to a closed session for negotiation strategies.

• Approved agenda amendment with updates on tanks, event center, capital improvements (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items including auditor and human services warrants (unanimous)
• Approved agreement with Leaf River Ag for bulk diesel fuel delivery (unanimous)
• Approved $197,900 bulk road salt purchase from Compass Minerals America (unanimous)
• Approved $184,700 Wensman west wall rebuild contract with Hammers Construction (3-2)
• Approved request for quotes for six‑inch water line to event center (unanimous)
• Moved to closed session for negotiation strategies (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to review and ask questions regarding proposed 2026 budgets for each county department. No official actions or votes will be taken during this meeting.

• Discussion of 2026 proposed department budgets

County Commissioners

The commissioners unanimously approved extending the half‑percent transportation sales tax and set a 20‑year renewal. They also approved several land sales, a housing tax abatement, changes to employee probation policy, and the Local Housing Trust Fund Ordinance. The sheriff’s storage building insulation contract was approved, while a motion to sell a south‑side parcel failed.

• Approved continuation of 0.5% transportation tax with 20‑year renewal (unanimous)
• Approved low‑bid $25,756 insulation for Sheriff’s storage building (unanimous)
• Approved Housing Tax Abatement for parcel 07.010.3035 (unanimous)
• Approved changes to Article 9.05 probation policy allowing paid leave use as earned (unanimous)
• Approved sale of Leaf River Township parcels 05.008.4010 & 05.009.3040 at auction, min $250,000 (unanimous)
• Approved sale of Red Eye Township parcel 12.002.3030 at auction, min $7,500 (unanimous)
• Approved Local Housing Trust Fund Ordinance No. 20 (unanimous)
• Motion to sell City of Wadena parcel 22.006.1050 South side failed 3‑2

County Commissioners

The commissioners approved the inclusion of the Bell Hill property in the fall land sale with a $250,000 minimum bid, passing 4‑1. They also approved the 2026‑2027 Attorney wage grid, the updated personnel committee charter, a 60‑day public‑health staffing trial, and the Collective Bargaining Agreement with the Minnesota Teamsters. Additional items approved unanimously included the ditch inspection schedule, solid‑waste credit policy, and updates to several personnel policy articles.

• Approved Bell Hill property sale with $250,000 minimum bid (4-1)
• Approved 2026‑2027 County Attorney wage grids (unanimous)
• Approved updated Personnel Committee Charter (unanimous)
• Approved 60‑day trial to reduce Public Health Administrative Assistant staff (unanimous)
• Approved Collective Bargaining Agreement with Minnesota Teamsters Public Law Enforcement Union (unanimous)
• Approved Ditch Inspection Schedule for 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved updated Solid Waste credit policy effective Jan 1 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved language changes to Personnel Policy Articles 10.01 and 4.05 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The commissioners approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda unanimously. They authorized a $30,000 contract with Northern Pines Mental Health Center, funded by the CSP Grant. They also approved Waste Designation Resolution #2025-32 to guide solid waste routing. A committee was appointed to draft an Ag Society lease, the board entered a closed session for litigation discussion, and then adjourned.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved $30,000 Northern Pines Mental Health contract (unanimous)
• Approved Waste Designation Resolution #2025-32 (unanimous)
• Appointed committee to draft Ag Society lease (unanimous)
• Moved to closed session to discuss litigation (unanimous)
• Resumed open session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The commissioners approved a $398,200 contract with Johnson Controls to replace the Human Services building HVAC system, funding it with $300,000 from the Building Fund and $98,200 from the South Country Fund. They also approved a $30,000 sponsorship of the Economic Development Alliance, an $11,725.06 Mitel phone‑system upgrade, and a 4.25% cost‑of‑living increase for non‑union employees through 2027. Housing tax abatements for two parcels were granted, and the design of a new Auditor/Treasurer window was authorized. Action on the courthouse restroom remodel was postponed.

• Approved $398,200 Human Services HVAC replacement (unanimous)
• Approved $30,000 Economic Development Alliance sponsorship for 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved $11,725.06 Mitel system upgrade quote (unanimous)
• Approved International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49 2025‑2027 contract (unanimous)
• Approved 4.25% cost‑of‑living adjustments for non‑union employees 2025‑2027 (unanimous)
• Approved housing tax abatement for Parcel 17.021.3025 (unanimous)
• Approved housing tax abatement for Parcel 07.027.1020 (unanimous)
• Tabled courthouse restroom alterations (postponed)

County Commissioners

The Board unanimously approved a Paid Family Medical Leave contract with MetLife for 2026‑2027, with costs split equally between the county and employees. It also approved a Short‑Term Disability insurance agreement with MetLife and a Conditional Use Permit for a billboard on parcel 14.009.3050. Additional actions included personnel policy language changes, solid‑waste study participation, and routine consent‑agenda approvals.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Leaf River Ag Service billboard on parcel 14.009.3050 (unanimous)
• Approved Paid Family Medical Leave agreement with MetLife for 2026‑2027, cost split 50/50 (unanimous)
• Approved Short‑Term Disability insurance agreement with MetLife (unanimous)
• Approved personnel policy language changes allowing department heads to approve steps 1‑2 and Deputy County Administrator steps 3‑5 (unanimous)
• Approved Solid Waste Supervisor Wade Miller to attend Regional Demolition Waste Study meetings and provide monthly updates (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda items including minutes, warrants and financial reports (unanimous)
• Moved to closed session for negotiation strategies per MN Statute §13D.05 Subd. 3(c) (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of Equalization accepted the county assessor’s recommendations, adjusting the estimated market values of several parcels and confirming other property evaluations. Motions to accept the assessor’s recommendations for Jeff Pederson’s law‑firm and Stocking Lake properties, and for multiple parcels owned by Brian Hagen, Matthew D & Harmony M Umland, the Odden families, Michael & Cynthia Gold, and Todd W. Johnson were all carried unanimously (with three abstentions by Auditor Olson). The board also approved lowering the evaluation of Brian Hagen’s 1/3‑acre parcel to $10,000 after an amendment.

• Accepted Jeff Pederson law‑firm valuation (increase to $432,200) – unanimous
• Accepted Jeff Pederson Stocking Lake acreage valuation (205 acres) – unanimous
• Lowered Brian Hagen parcel 22-005-1030 evaluation to $10,000 – unanimous
• Lowered Brian Hagen parcel 22-006-3010 EMV to $345,000 – unanimous
• Increased Matthew D & Harmony M Umland parcel valuation by $79,400 to $194,200 – unanimous
• Reduced Ryan & Kristi Odden parcel valuation by $10,900 – unanimous (Olson abstained)
• Reduced Larry & Jeanne Odden parcel 20-036-1021 valuation by $6,000 – unanimous (Olson abstained)
• Increased Todd W. Johnson parcel valuation by $29,400 – unanimous

County Commissioners

The commissioners approved the Blueberry Pines Holdings, Inc. liquor license. They also approved the county's Identified Official for Education Identity and Access and a $6,500 storm‑water permit re‑issuance. The consent agenda, including several auditor warrants, was approved. The board agreed to continue discussions with the City of Nimrod about purchasing a parcel for a street connection.

• Approved agenda after adding liquor license request (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items, including $761,498.74 and $662,614.19 auditor warrants (unanimous)
• Approved Heather Olson as Identified Official with Authority for Education (unanimous)
• Approved Widseth proposal to re‑permit storm‑water plan for $6,500 (unanimous)
• Approved Blueberry Pines Holdings liquor license (unanimous)
• Agreed to work with Nimrod on sale of parcel for street connection (consensus, no vote)
• Tabled discussion of extension and AG leases until July 8 meeting (no decision)
• Adjourned meeting at 2:08 p.m. (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The board approved the sale of three county vehicles on MnBid, authorized a Premise ID for the fairgrounds and a grant for an electronic ID wand, and voted to fund a sprinkler system for the 4‑H building. It also approved low‑bid bidding for the Wensman Building west wall repairs, increased contract accountant hours for Public Health, and adopted a resolution for the 2026 Friendly Rider operating grant. Additional unanimous actions included a letter of support for a low‑emission bus grant and acceptance of a revised $27,998.77 quote for the Recorder’s Office compliance project.

• Approved sale of Unit 10 (Ford F‑150), Unit 16 (Ford F‑150), and Unit 4316 (CAT Skid Steer) on MnBid, unanimous vote
• Approved Premise ID for Wadena Fairgrounds and grant application for an EID wand, vote 4‑1
• Approved up to $60,000 for sprinkler system in 4‑H building, vote 4‑1
• Approved low‑bid process for Wensman Building west wall repairs, vote 3‑2
• Approved increase of Public Health contract accountant hours to 80 hrs ($4,000) for June‑July 2025, unanimous vote
• Approved Resolution 2025‑30 with date change for 2026 Friendly Rider grant, vote 4‑1
• Approved letter of support for Federal 2025 Low or No Emissions Grant, unanimous vote
• Accepted revised quote of $27,998.77 from Southwest Solutions Group for Recorder compliance fund, unanimous vote

County Commissioners

The Wadena County Board approved a resolution to rezone several state and county highways to a B‑1 Highway Service Business District. It also reimbursed the City of Sebeka $2,225.55 for a light‑pole replacement, approved $2,050 for park‑landing improvements, and authorized a sand‑extraction permit for Kern & Tabery LLC. Additional actions included a watershed‑fund agreement, five housing tax abatements, moving to a closed session for negotiation strategy, and adjourning the meeting.

• Rezoned major transportation routes to B‑1 district (unanimous)
• Reimbursed City of Sebeka $2,225.55 for light‑pole replacement (unanimous)
• Approved $2,050 from Tax Forfeited Land Sale Park Reserve for park landings (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Kern & Tabery LLC sand extraction (unanimous)
• Approved agreement with Crow Wing County Soil and Water Conservation District for watershed funds (unanimous)
• Approved five housing tax abatements for parcels 07-002-1040, 17-620-0070, 17-620-0075, 17-620-0060, 17-620-0065 (unanimous)
• Moved to closed session for negotiation strategies (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The board appointed County Auditor/Treasurer Heather Olson as interim county administrator effective June 1, 2025 with a $1,000 monthly stipend. It approved housing tax abatements of up to $15,000 for four parcels. The board also approved several contracts, including a $43,276.19 three‑year Onsolve emergency‑alert renewal and a $5,430 waterline relocation, and authorized the sale of park equipment. Finally, the DDA Ongoing Maintenance reclassifications affecting 22 employees were approved.

• Appointed Heather Olson as interim county administrator (effective June 1, 2025) with $1,000 monthly stipend – unanimous vote
• Approved housing tax abatements up to $15,000 for parcel 15-002-4020 – unanimous vote
• Approved housing tax abatements up to $15,000 for parcel 06-018-2012 – unanimous vote
• Approved housing tax abatements up to $15,000 for parcel 17-620-0165 – unanimous vote
• Approved housing tax abatements up to $15,000 for parcel 17-620-0160 – unanimous vote
• Approved three‑year Onsolve emergency‑alert contract for $43,276.19 – unanimous vote
• Authorized Bryan Wegscheid Plumbing to relocate the fairgrounds waterline for $5,430.00 – unanimous vote
• Approved sale of 2007 Ford pickup and John Deere LT150 mower at Verndale Fire Dept auction – unanimous vote

County Commissioners

The board adopted a resolution supporting the DNR purchase of a 140‑acre conservation parcel and approved a $20,000 Crow Wing Watershed service agreement. It also approved the reassignment of Building Services oversight to Planning and Zoning, hired an IT Coordinator, and authorized up to $4,000 from the Tax Forfeit Park Reserve Fund for a park vehicle. Finally, commissioners voted to combine the Bell Hill property sale with other county lands for an August sale.

• Adopted Resolution 2025-26 to support DNR purchase of 140‑acre parcel (unanimous)
• Approved Crow Wing Watershed implementation funds agreement ($20,000) (unanimous)
• Approved up to $4,000 from Tax Forfeit Park Reserve Fund for park vehicle purchase (unanimous)
• Reassigned Building Services oversight to Planning and Zoning (3‑2)
• Approved hiring of IT Coordinator, posting internally (4‑1)
• Approved Resolution 2025-27 to apply for Sourcewell Impact funding for children’s mental health (unanimous)
• Rescinded earlier motion to sell Bell Hill property for $100,000 (unanimous)
• Combined Bell Hill property sale with other county and tax‑forfeited lands for an August sale (3‑2)

County Commissioners

The commissioners unanimously approved a $879,826.89 contract to resurface County Road 101 and award a $157,862.50 SAP contract. They also approved a 32‑unit common interest community in Blueberry Township, paid $10,377.56 closing costs, hired a sheriff’s office intern, purchased recorder shelving for $30,296.03, entered a $27,000 block‑time agreement with MEI, and combined the HR and Human Services director roles into a Deputy County Administrator.

• Approved $879,826.89 road resurfacing contract (unanimous)
• Approved $157,862.50 SAP contract to J.B. Nanik Inc (unanimous)
• Approved common interest community development in Blueberry Township (unanimous)
• Approved $10,377.56 closing costs payment to Arrowhead Abstract & Title (unanimous)
• Approved sheriff’s office intern hire at $15/hour up to 640 hours (unanimous)
• Approved $30,296.03 purchase of recorder shelving from Southwest Solutions Group (unanimous)
• Approved $27,000 block‑time service agreement with Morris Electronics, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved combining HR Director and Human Services Director into Deputy County Administrator (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The board discussed the candidates interviewed earlier in the day. A motion by Commissioner Noon to offer the County Administrator position to Steven Foley was seconded by Commissioner Winkels and carried unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous motion.

• Offer County Administrator position to Steven Foley (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The commissioners unanimously approved the consent agenda, including Auditor Warrants for $303,956.68 and Human Services Warrants for $29,681.20. The board also consented to pursue a request for proposals for a Repayment Assistance Program under the Paid Family Medical Leave Act. Additionally, the commissioners asked County Engineer Anthony Maule to prepare an estimate for replacing the existing sewer pipe at the 4H building.

• Approved Auditor Warrants $303,956.68 (unanimous)
• Approved Human Services Warrants $29,681.20 (unanimous)
• Approved all Consent Agenda items (unanimous)
• Consented to obtain an RFP for a Repayment Assistance Program for Paid Family Medical Leave Act
• Requested Engineer Anthony Maule to prepare an estimate for replacing the 4H building sewer pipe

County Commissioners

The board voted to move forward with the five highest‑vote applicants for the county administrator position and approved a $5,800 preliminary design agreement for the Wensman Building wall rebuild (3‑2). They also approved the consent agenda items, including $87,530.40 in auditor warrants, and authorized replacement of the Jury Room ceiling and lights using MCIT funds. Additionally, the board set mileage and meal reimbursement rates for out‑of‑area interview candidates.

• Approved consent agenda items including $87,530.40 auditor warrants (unanimous)
• Approved Preliminary Design Agreement from Hammers Construction for $5,800 (3‑2)
• Approved replacement of Jury Room ceiling and lights with MCIT funds (unanimous)
• Selected top five administrator candidates for interviews (ballot tally)
• Set mileage reimbursement at $0.70/mile up to $500 and $250 meals/lodging for interviewees
• Closed public hearing for tax abatements (unanimous)
• Approved agenda after removing closed‑session item (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The commissioners unanimously approved the updated employee‑handbook ESST language, the move of the Extension Office into the 4H Event Center, and several road construction contracts and final payments. They also approved a rezoning request for a property to allow material excavation for a highway project, and authorized $4,000 for advertising the Bell Hill parcels. All motions passed unanimously except the advertising vote, which was 4‑1 in favor.

• Approved 2025 ESST Updated Language Article 30 (unanimous)
• Approved relocation of Extension Office to 4H Building (unanimous)
• Approved award of SAP 080-623-024 to Anderson Brothers for CSAH 23 work (unanimous)
• Approved final payment for SAP 080-040-001 to HYTECH Construction (unanimous)
• Approved final payment for SP 080-623-022 to Structural Specialties (unanimous)
• Approved award of SP 080-606-010 to Mark Sand and Gravel for CSAH 6 project (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of PID #14.009.2070 from R-1 to A-1 (unanimous)
• Approved up to $4,000 advertising for Bell Hill properties (vote 4‑1)