Watonwan County, Minnesota

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Human Services Board will meet to approve contracts for sexual and reproductive health services, approve minutes, and address personnel changes including a resignation and retirement.

• Approval of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services agreements with Allina Health, Hy-Vee, and others (7/1/2026-6/30/2028)
• Approval of minutes from the previous meeting
• Personnel changes: resignation of Sara Taplin (WIC Coordinator) and retirement of Jill Bodick Grace
• Request to send 2 staff to the 2026 Minnesota Financial Worker and Case Aide Association Conference
• Reports from various committees including Brown County Evaluation Center and CHS Advisory Committee

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will consider adopting the County Ditch Mowing and Noxious Weed Control Policy presented by the Public Works Director. The board will also review a Notice of Sale Resolution and a Municipal Advisory Service Agreement presented by the Northland Public Finance Managing Director. Additional items include approval of minutes, review of commissioner, credit‑card and auditor bills, June financial statements, disposal of recycling sheds, and personnel matters.

• Adopt Watonwan County Ditch Mowing and Noxious Weed Control Policy
• Consider Notice of Sale Resolution
• Review Municipal Advisory Service Agreement
• Approve commissioner, credit‑card, and auditor bills
• Discuss disposal of recycling sheds

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Soil and Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors will meet to discuss financial reports and program updates. The board is taking action on soil health outreach and specific conservation contracts.

• Contract 83-1-4 for residue and till management: $4,795.00
• Contract 83-1-9 for cover crops: $13,626.00
• Discussion of the Fair Booth
• Approval of SWCD bills and supervisor per diems

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will discuss accepting a donation for Perch Creek WMA, a debt management policy and finance plan, a ditch repair quote, a data center proposal, electrical work for the Taco Stand, and a weed control ordinance for wild parsnip. A building committee meeting is also scheduled. Miscellaneous items include approval of minutes, bills, tax abatements, and a pre-budget work session.

• Notification-acceptance of donation for Perch Creek WMA
• Discussion of Watonwan County Debt Management Policy and Finance Plan
• Motion approving quotation for electrical work for the Taco Stand
• Review of weed control ordinance and policy for wild parsnip on county property
• Data center discussion with Land Management Director

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The board will receive operational updates from agency directors and committee reports. Members will consider a revised cellular phone policy and a donation to the Madelia American Legion.

• Revised Policy No. 20 - Cellular Phone Policy
• Personnel status change for Melissa Schallock
• LAC Donation to Madelia American Legion
• Reports from Brown County Evaluation Center and Enterprise North Inc.

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will discuss quotes for courthouse sidewalk repair, authorize signing a SCORE agreement, consider a TMT operating grant resolution, and review a report on the Hammond Highway project including Change Orders 1-3. Miscellaneous items include approval of minutes, bills, financials, designation of an Identified Official with Authority, low potency hemp retail registration, and setting 2027 budget work session dates.

• Quotes for Courthouse Sidewalk Repair
• Authorize Signing SCORE Agreement
• TMT Operating Grant Resolution
• Report and Change Orders 1-3 for project SP 083-613-020 (Hammond Highway)
• Low Potency Hemp Retail Registration

The Board approved a $9,640.70 quote for courthouse sidewalk repairs and authorized an application for 2027 transit grants. Additional actions included approving various bill payments, a hemp retail registration, and several personnel appointments.

• Approved TB Construction Concrete Contractor bid for sidewalk repair ($9,640.70) (5-0)
• Authorized Kyla Schlomann to sign SCORE Agreement (5-0)
• Approved bill payments by fund (5-0)
• Authorized Kelly Pauling as Identified Official with Authority for MDE system (5-0)
• Approved Low Potency Hemp Retail Registration for City of Butterfield (5-0)
• Approved 2027 Transit Operating and Capital Grants application (5-0)
• Appointed Kinsey Meyer as Dispatcher (5-0)
• Appointed Jim Pettersen to South Central Minnesota Emergency Board (5-0)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors will review financial reports and vote on several conservation contracts. The board is deciding on funding for windbreaks and tree establishment projects. Other business includes voting on radio and billboard advertisements.

• Contract 26-CC-01: $5,000.00 for NRCS 380 Windbreak
• Contract 26-CC-04: $5,000.00 for NRCS 380 Windbreak
• Contract 25-SH-03: $5,000.00 for NRCS 612 tree establishment
• Contract WBIF-WW-24-83-07: $10,000.00 for NRCS 612 tree establishment
• Pheasants Forever Local Partners Agreement

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will review bids for county-wide striping and a professional services agreement for a public works facility. The board will also consider a resolution for a right-of-way turnback from the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

• Bids for Project CP 83-26-01 2026 County Wide Striping
• Quotation for Project CP 83-26-02 Madelia Curb and Gutter Repair
• Professional Services Agreement with APX for Project CP 83-27-01 Public Works Facility
• Sale of forfeited 2012 Ford and 2004 Chevrolet vehicles
• Right-of-Way turnback resolution from Minnesota Department of Transportation

The Watonwan County Board unanimously approved several contracts, including the $195,455 lowest bid from Sir‑Lines‑A‑Lot for Project CP 83‑26‑01 and a $45,227 quotation from Nielsen Concrete for curb and gutter repair. It also adopted a resolution releasing portions of several county roads from MnDOT, approved a professional services agreement with APX, set fair‑grounds operating hours, and established an Absentee and UOCAVA Ballot Board.

• Approved lowest bid $195,455.00 from Sir‑Lines‑A‑Lot for Project CP 83‑26‑01 (unanimous)
• Approved $45,227.00 Nielsen Concrete quotation for Madelia curb and gutter repair (unanimous)
• Approved resolution releasing portions of CR 103, CR 118, CSAH 16, CR 109, CR 117, CSAH 26 from MnDOT (unanimous)
• Approved Professional Service Agreement with APX for Project CP 83‑27‑01 (unanimous)
• Approved fairgrounds hours: closed 10:30 PM–5:30 AM when no events (unanimous)
• Approved payment of audited bills and credit‑card charges totaling $71,? (unanimous)
• Approved sale of two forfeited vehicles via MNBid (unanimous)
• Approved establishment of County Absentee and UOCAVA Ballot Board (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Human Services Board will meet on May 20, 2026, for a routine meeting including reports from agency directors and department heads. Action items include approving the 2026 Fraud Prevention Investigation Plan of Cooperation with the Watonwan County Sheriff, amending Policy No. 37 on safeguarding federal tax information, and moving an eligibility worker to permanent status. The agenda also includes monthly financial claims and committee updates.

• 2026 Fraud Prevention Investigation Plan of Cooperation with Watonwan County Sheriff
• Amendment to Policy No. 37: Safeguarding Federal Tax Information
• End of probation and move to permanent status for Heidi Oanes, Eligibility Worker
• Monthly financial claims approval
• Committee reports: Brown County Evaluation Center, CHS Advisory, Enterprise North, LAC, MRCI, SCHSAC, VFC Collaborative

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will meet to review project change orders and procurement policies. The session includes a discussion on the Watline Trail Phase 2 and a subsequent work session regarding the Public Works Facility.

• Change orders 1-3 for project SP 083-090-007 (Watline Trail Phase 2)
• Sale of equipment and purchase of a new survey controller
• Updated Procurement Policy in the Policies and Procedures Manual
• Liquor license application for Watonwan County Ag Association
• Discussion on Fairgrounds soccer practice field

The Watonwan County Board unanimously approved a letter of support for Green Tech Recycling, the sale of unused equipment, and a new Public Works Road Maintenance Procurement and Change Order Policy that allows contracts up to $50,000. It also approved the purchase of a survey controller for $11,214.50, routine bill payments, a liquor license, use of the fairgrounds soccer field by a youth club, and appointments of a summer worker and an on‑call driver.

• Approved letter of support for Green Tech Recycling (unanimous)
• Approved sale of unused equipment on MNbid (unanimous)
• Approved Public Works Road Maintenance Procurement and Change Order Policy authorizing contracts up to $50,000 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of survey controller from Frontier Precision for $11,214.50 (unanimous)
• Approved payment of audited bills totaling $96,? (unanimous)
• Approved Watonwan County Ag Association liquor license (unanimous)
• Approved use of Fairgrounds soccer field by Saint James Youth Soccer Club for one year (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Talyn Tande as summer worker (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Watonwan County Soil & Water Conservation District board will consider adopting Mankato Watershed resolutions and approving multiple soil health contracts totaling over $125,000. The contracts cover strip-till, no-till, cover crops, and windbreak establishment practices under state grant programs. Also up for action are two well decommissioning contracts funded by the Greater Blue Earth River Basin Alliance.

• Adopt Mankato Watershed resolutions (action item)
• Contract 83-1-3: $20,741 for strip-till/no-till on 296.3 acres (NRCS 329)
• Contract 83-1-6: $39,960 for cover crop on 296 acres (NRCS 340)
• Contract 25-SH-07: $4,560.98 for windbreak establishment (NRCS 380)
• Two well decommissioning contracts: WBIF-WW-24-83-13 ($1,450) and WBIF-WW-24-83-14 ($2,335)

The board adopted the Mankato Watershed Resolution and approved $112,705.80 in bills. It also approved six soil‑health practice contracts and two well‑decommissioning contracts, and confirmed the meeting schedule and agenda amendments. All motions carried unanimously.

• Adopted Mankato Watershed Resolution (unanimous)
• Approved bills totaling $112,705.80 (unanimous)
• Approved contracts 83-1-3, 83-1-5, 25-SH-07, 83-1-6, 83-1-7, 83-1-8 (unanimous)
• Approved GBERBA contracts WBIF-WW-24-83-13 & WBIF-WW-24-83-14 (unanimous)
• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April 14, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved meeting schedule additions (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:16 a.m. (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will open bids for ditch authority work (J.D. #26) and review a quotation for culvert maintenance on County State Aid Highway 26. The Board will also consider a resolution adopting the Minnesota River-Mankato Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan and act on a liquor license application and motor pool vehicle quotes.

• Bid recommendations for J.D. #26 Ditch Authority from ISG
• Quotation for culvert maintenance work on CSAH 26
• Resolution on MN River-Mankato Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan
• St. James Fire Department Liquor License Application
• Motor Pool Vehicle Quotes

The Watonford County Board approved the adoption and implementation of the Minnesota River‑Mankato Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan. It also awarded the lowest bids for all three J.D. #26 improvement packages and approved a $50,799.92 culvert maintenance quotation. Additional approvals included a vehicle purchase, a fire‑department liquor license, and appointments for heavy‑equipment operators.

• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Awarded lowest bids for J.D. #26 packages: Litzau Farm Drainage $237,352.50; Noomen Excavating $343,327.61; Litzau Farm Drainage $394,378.50 (unanimous)
• Approved Woratschka Excavation culvert quote $50,799.92 (3‑1)
• Adopted Minnesota River‑Mankato Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan (unanimous)
• Approved state bid for 2027 Chevrolet Equinox LT AWD $29,069.00 (3‑1)
• Approved St. James Fire Department liquor license (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Andrew Bergstrom and Levi Sizer as Heavy Equipment Operators (unanimous)
• Approved change of Butterfield’s Summer Sizzle gambling license from bingo to raffle (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The board will receive operational updates from the Director and reports from income maintenance, public health, and social services. Members will also review monthly financial claims and reports from various health and community committees.

• Director's report of agency operations
• Monthly financial claims
• Review of contracts, agreements, and policies
• Request to change the July meeting date

The Human Services Board approved the March 18 minutes and the amended agenda. It unanimously authorized a $22,125 cannabis grant for billboard advertising and a $190,250.71 payment of audited Human Services bills. The board also ratified Policy No. 49, updated the Comprehensive Civil Rights Plan contact information, and moved the July meeting to July 21, 2026.

• Approved minutes of March 18, 2026 meeting (motion carried; Westman and Pettersen abstained)
• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved $22,125 cannabis grant for billboard placements (unanimous)
• Approved payment of Human Services bills, $190,250.71 (unanimous)
• Ratified Policy No. 49, Background Study Requirements for Human Services Employees (motion carried)
• Updated 2023‑2026 Comprehensive Civil Rights Plan with new phone numbers and email addresses (motion carried)
• Rescheduled July board meeting to July 21, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. (unanimous)
• Approved the motion to change the June 9 meeting time to 3:00 p.m. (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will consider approving a Professional Services Agreement with Apex Engineering for Certified Bridge Construction Inspector services. They will also discuss a contracted hours update from Sheriff Bergeman regarding Advanced Correction Healthcare and receive the Annual Feedlot Report from Land Management. Miscellaneous items include approval of minutes, bills, March 2026 financials, and personnel matters.

• Motion to approve Professional Services Agreement with Apex Engineering for bridge construction inspection
• Sheriff Jard Bergeman to discuss Advanced Correction Healthcare contracted hours
• Land Management Director presents Annual Feedlot Report
• March 2026 Financials for approval
• Approval of Commissioner, Auditor and Credit Card Bills

The board unanimously approved routine items such as the agenda, prior minutes, and payment of county bills. It accepted the resignation of Seth Hudson and approved contracts for inmate healthcare, a printer purchase, and bridge inspection services. The board decided the fairgrounds soccer field could not be used without liability insurance. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved April 7 minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Approved payment of county bills totaling $393,? (unanimous)
• Approved resignation of Seth Hudson (unanimous)
• Authorized Sheriff Jared Bergeman to sign inmate healthcare contract with Advanced Correctional Healthcare, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of HP DesignJet T850 MFP with 5-year maintenance for $10,372 through Marco (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Apex Engineering Group for bridge construction inspector services (unanimous)
• Determined fairgrounds soccer field cannot be used without liability insurance (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Watonwan Soil and Water Conservation District will approve bills, supervisor per diems, and a contract for $4,795.00 for residue and till management practices. The board will also discuss resolutions for the Blue Earth Watershed and receive reports from staff and regional partners.

• Action: Adopt Blue Earth Watershed resolutions
• Action: Pay SWCD bills and supervisor per diems
• Contract: $4,795.00 for residue and till management (no till)
• Action: Approve contract 83-1-4 for 137 acres
• Discussion: Supervisor reports from GBERBA and MASWCD

The Watonwan Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved its amended agenda and the March 10, 2026 minutes. It authorized payment of $411.20 in bills and approved supervisors' per diem. The board adopted the Blue Earth River Watershed resolutions and approved contract 25-CC-06 for $4,795 under the FY26 Soil Health Practices Grant.

• Approved amended agenda (motion carried)
• Approved March 10, 2026 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved bills totaling $411.20 (motion carried)
• Approved supervisors per diem (motion carried)
• Adopted Blue Earth River Watershed resolutions (motion carried)
• Approved contract 25-CC-06 for $4,795 (motion carried)
• Approved upcoming meeting schedule (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:36 a.m. (motion carried)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will hold a public hearing and vote on an ordinance limiting firearms for deer hunting. The board will also authorize the Building Committee to negotiate a contract for Project CP 83-27-01 and consider bids for bridge and highway paving projects.

• Public hearing and ordinance action on limiting firearms for deer hunting
• Authorize Building Committee to negotiate contract with APX for Project CP 83-27-01
• Consider bids for Bridge 83502 replacement (Project SAP 083-599-074)
• Consider bids for Hammond Highway paving (Project SP 083-613-020)
• Approve quotes for 2026 gravel supply

The Watonwan County Board adopted an ordinance limiting firearms for deer hunting to shotguns (vote 4‑1). It also approved several financial items, a partnership grant application, and adopted the Blue Earth River Watershed Management Plan. Additional actions included approving meeting minutes, a public sale of tax‑forfeited lands, and purchasing a new HP scanner for the Recorder’s office.

• Adopt deer‑hunting firearms ordinance (shotgun‑only) – vote 4‑1
• Approve special meeting minutes (Dec 22 2025 & Feb 25 2026) – unanimous
• Approve regular meeting minutes (Mar 17) – vote 4‑1, Westman abstained
• Approve payment of county bills (General Fund $108,223.83, etc.) – unanimous
• Approve partnership with Climate Smart St. James grant application – vote 4‑1, Melheim opposed
• Adopt Blue Earth River Watershed Comprehensive Management Plan – unanimous
• Approve public sale of tax‑forfeited lands – unanimous
• Approve purchase of HP scanner for Recorder’s office ($7,069) – unanimous

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Human Services Board will meet to receive operational updates from agency directors and committee reports. The board will also review bids for floor cleaning services.

• Bids for floor cleaning services
• Donations of 8 adult quilts and 1 baby quilt from Augustana Lutheran Church
• Donation of 12 baby quilts from Robin Koenig

The Watonburg County Human Services Board unanimously approved payment of Human Services bills totaling $534,362.98. The board also unanimously amended Policy 22 to revise eligibility criteria for emergency assistance programs. Donations of adult and baby quilts from local sources were accepted. The board approved the $4.905 quote from Rotert’s Flooring for professional floor cleaning.

• Approved payment of Human Services bills, $534,362.98 (unanimous)
• Amended Policy 22 – Emergency Assistance Programs eligibility (unanimous)
• Accepted donations: 8 adult quilts and 1 baby quilt from Augustana Lutheran Church, 12 baby quilts from Robin Koenig (unanimous)
• Approved Rotert’s Flooring quote, $4.905 for floor cleaning (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The board will review a grant application for the Climate Smart St. James project. It will consider a conditional use permit presented by Land Management Director David Haler. The board will discuss 2026 property assessment changes with County Assessor Meggie Munsterman. Additional items include minutes, financial reports, tax-forfeited land sale resolutions, and a motion to approve seal coat quotations.

• Grant application for Climate Smart St. James
• Conditional Use Permit presented by Land Management Director David Haler
• 2026 Assessment Changes presented by County Assessor Meggie Munsterman
• Tax-Forfeited Land Sale Resolution and Sale to St. James
• Motion approving quotations for seal coat rock and oil

The board unanimously approved the agenda, the March 3 minutes, and payment of audited county bills totaling $95,942.44 across the General, Ditch, and Road & Bridge funds. They unanimously approved a conditional use application for Jesse Friedrich to add a second dwelling on his property. The board adopted resolutions authorizing the public sale of listed tax‑forfeited lands and, separately, the sale of four specific parcels in St. James to the city for $1 each to address blight. They also unanimously approved L&S Construction’s seal‑coat rock quote totaling $120,900.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 3 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved payment of audited bills: General Fund $53,121.97; Ditch Fund $5,517.50; Road & Bridge Fund $37,302.97 (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use for Jesse Friedrich’s second dwelling (unanimous)
• Approved list of tax‑forfeited land and authorization for public sale (unanimous)
• Approved sale of four St. James tax‑forfeited parcels to the city for $1 each (unanimous)
• Approved L&S Construction seal‑coat rock quote totaling $120,900 (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Watonwan County Soil & Water Conservation District board will consider and act on two conservation contracts, one for a windbreak/shelterbelt and another for a grassed waterway. The meeting also includes a Treasurer's Report, discussion of SWCD bills, and a policy action on the RCPP. Additional reports from the Greater Blue Earth River Basin Alliance and other supervisors will be reviewed.

• Approve Contract 26-CC-06 (NRCS 380 Windbreak/Shelterbelt) – estimated cost $3,622.15, 85% cost share $3,078.82
• Approve Contract WBIF-WW-24-83-12 (NRCS 638 WASCOB, 412 Grassed waterway) – estimated cost $26,250.00, 85% cost share $22,312.50
• RCPP Policy action
• Treasurer’s Report discussion and approval of SWCD bills
• Review of Greater Blue Earth River Basin Alliance (GBERBA) applications and contracts

The board unanimously approved the March 10 agenda and the February 10 minutes. It authorized payment of $248 in bills. Two contracts were approved: a $3,622 windbreak contract (25-CC-06) and a $26,250 watershed contract (WBIF-WW-24-83-12). The schedule of upcoming meetings was also approved before adjournment.

• Approved amended agenda (Affirmative: Braaten, Bergeman, Ekstrom, Enger, Wolle)
• Approved February 10 minutes (Affirmative: Braaten, Bergeman, Ekstrom, Enger, Wolle)
• Approved bills totaling $248.00 (Affirmative: Braaten, Bergeman, Ekstrom, Enger, Wolle)
• Approved contract 25-CC-06 for windbreaks, $3,622.15 (Affirmative: Braaten, Bergeman, Ekstrom, Enger, Wolle)
• Approved contract WBIF-WW-24-83-12 for watershed work, $26,250.00 (Affirmative: Braaten, Bergeman, Ekstrom, Enger, Wolle)
• Approved upcoming meeting schedule (Affirmative: Braaten, Bergeman, Ekstrom, Enger, Wolle)
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:00 am (Affirmative: Braaten, Bergeman, Ekstrom, Enger, Wolle)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will hold a public hearing on a proposed Shot‑gun Only Zone ordinance. The board will also review seal‑coat rock and oil quotations presented by County Engineer Michael McCarty. Additional items include approval of minutes, commissioner and auditor bills, the 2025 EMPG resolution, two lease agreements, and personnel matters.

• Shot‑gun Only Zone Ordinance public hearing
• Seal coat rock and oil quotations review
• 2025 EMPG Resolution
• National Micro Mini Tractor Pullers Association lease
• Keri Bohnert lease

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The special board meeting heard public comments on repealing the shotgun-only zone and limiting firearms for deer hunting. Commissioners listened to the comments. They decided to set a public hearing on the shotgun-only zone ordinance at the regular board meeting on March 3, 2026. The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 P.M.

• Set public hearing on shotgun-only zone ordinance for March 3, 2026 (decision made)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Human Services Board will approve its agenda and review routine reports on agency operations, income maintenance, public health, and social services. Board members will consider a cooperative agreement with NorthStar Data Partners, LLC covering July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027 to support the Foundational Public Health Responsibilities grant. Additional items include staff status changes, donation inventories, and a scheduled agency closure request for March 30, 2026.

• Cooperative Agreement with NorthStar Data Partners, LLC (July 1 2026 – June 30 2027) for FPHR grant support
• End of probation and move to permanent status for Haley Olson, County Agency Social Worker
• Donations from Augustana Lutheran Church, St. James (blankets, bibs, diapers, etc.)
• Donations from St. Olaf Church, Odin (7 quilts)
• Agency closure request on March 30 2026 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

The Human Services Board unanimously approved a cooperative agreement with NorthStar Data Partners, LLC for the Foundational Public Health Responsibilities grant covering July 1 2026 through June 30 2027. The board also moved a social worker, Haley Olson, from probation to permanent status, accepted multiple clothing donations, and approved monthly financial claims totaling $231,969.94. Additionally, the board authorized a March 30 agency closure for all‑staff training.

• Approved Cooperative Agreement with NorthStar Data Partners, LLC (July 1 2026‑June 30 2027) – unanimous
• Approved End of Probation and Permanent Status for Haley Olson, County Agency Social Worker – unanimous
• Accepted donations from Augustana Lutheran Church (blankets, bibs, diapers, etc.) – unanimous
• Accepted donation of 7 quilts from St. Olaf Church, Odin – unanimous
• Approved monthly financial claims of $231,969.94 (including $5,986.24 credit‑card payment) – unanimous
• Authorized Agency Closure on March 30 2026 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for all‑staff training – unanimous
• Approved minutes of the January 21 2026 meeting – unanimous
• Approved the meeting agenda – unanimous

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will consider a vehicle quote presented by County Sheriff Jared Bergeman. The board will also discuss assessments for Madelia and Riverdale Townships and review the Long and Mary Lakes Water Control System Operations Procedure and Policy along with Public Works departmental policies. Additional agenda items include minutes, commissioner and auditor bills, ditch assessments, an HRA resolution, motor pool vehicle approval, a probation lease, and personnel matters.

• Vehicle quote for County Sheriff Jared Bergeman
• J.D. 18 W&B Road Authority assessments for Madelia and Riverdale Townships
• Long and Mary Lakes Water Control System Operations Procedure and Policy
• Public Works Departmental Policies and Guidelines
• Snowplow discussion follow‑up

The board unanimously approved a $44,848 Dodge Durango pursuit vehicle and $15,521.51 of equipment for the Sheriff’s Department, adopted operating procedures for the Long and Mark Lakes water control system, and approved the 2026 ditch assessment terms. It also approved the transfer of the county’s Housing Choice Voucher program to the Blue Earth EDA, authorized a new van for Human Services, and ratified a 3% rent increase for the Department of Corrections lease. Additionally, the board confirmed multiple personnel appointments, transfers, and resignations.

• Approved purchase of 2025 Dodge Durango Pursuit AWD ($44,848) and equipment ($15,521.51) (unanimous)
• Approved Long and Mark Lakes Water Control System operations procedures (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 ditch assessment terms (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of county Housing Choice Voucher program to Blue Earth EDA (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of new van for Human Services (unanimous)
• Approved 3% rent increase for Department of Corrections lease amendment (unanimous)
• Approved multiple personnel appointments, transfers, and dismissals (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Watonwan County Soil & Water Conservation District is meeting to review financial reports and program updates. The board will act on bills, supervisor per diems, and a specific contract amendment. Staff and supervisors will also provide reports on regional alliances and technical services.

• Contract 25-SH-05: Proposed cost increase from $4,653.79 to $6,101.58 for a 380 windbreak/shelterbelt
• Approval of SWCD bills to pay
• Action on Supervisor Per Diem payments
• Review of FY26 Conservation Contracts funding

The board unanimously approved the February 10 agenda and the January 13 minutes. It authorized payment of $3,941.73 in bills and approved supervisors' per diem. The board also approved contract 25‑SH‑05, increasing the cost to $6,101.58 with a $5,000 cost‑share. Upcoming meeting dates were adopted and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved February 10 agenda (unanimous)
• Approved January 13 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved bills totaling $3,941.73 (unanimous)
• Approved supervisors per diem (unanimous)
• Approved contract 25‑SH‑05 for windbreaks at $6,101.58 (unanimous)
• Approved upcoming meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:36 am (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The board will consider two motions: one to approve the purchase of a tandem‑axle truck and snow‑removal equipment, and another to approve a professional services agreement with Braun InterTech for subsurface exploration at the Helling Pit. Additional agenda items include approval of minutes, commissioner and credit‑card bills, an exempt permit application from the Godahl Recreation Association, a representation agreement with Madden Galanter Hansen, PLLC, and personnel matters.

• Motion to approve purchase of tandem‑axle truck and snow‑removal equipment
• Motion to approve professional services agreement with Braun InterTech for subsurface exploration at the Helling Pit
• Godahl Recreation Association – Application for Exempt Permit
• Madden Galanter Hansen, PLLC – Representation Agreement
• Commissioner and Credit Card Bills

The Watonwan County Board approved its agenda, paid outstanding bills, and granted an exempt permit for Godahl Days. It also approved a representation agreement with Madden Galanter Hansen, PLLC, and authorized the purchase of a tandem axle truck and snow‑removal equipment. Additional actions included approving resale of two trucks on MNBid, a subsurface exploration contract for $11,735, and an $85,000 ditch assessment for County Ditch 1.

• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $124,? (unanimous)
• Approved exempt permit for Godahl Days (unanimous)
• Approved representation agreement with Madden Galanter Hansen, PLLC through Dec 31 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of tandem axle truck ($346,262.28) and snow removal equipment ($7,990.88) (unanimous)
• Approved resale of 2012 Mack GU713 and 2017 Freightliner 114SD on MNBid (unanimous)
• Approved subsurface exploration services agreement with Braun InterTech for $11,735 (unanimous)
• Approved ditch assessment for County Ditch 1 ($85,000) (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Human Services Board will meet to approve minutes, staff appointments, and committee reports. The meeting will also include updates on income maintenance, public health, and social services.

• Probationary appointments for Karli Dellaca and Crystal Laxen
• End of probation for Jessica Veenstra
• Committee reports from Brown County Evaluation Center and CHS
• Updates on income maintenance and public health
• Approval of the January 21, 2026 meeting agenda

The board unanimously approved the monthly financial claims totaling $311,964.25, which includes a $7,179.03 credit card payment. It also approved several personnel actions, including probationary appointments for Karli Dellaca and Crystal Laxen, and made Jessica Veenstra a permanent County Agency Social Worker Team Lead. Additional unanimous actions included approving the meeting minutes, agenda, acceptance of quilt donations, and a second three‑year citizen‑representative term for Kimberly Hall.

• Approved December 17, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Approved probationary appointment of Karli Dellaca, Health Services Program Aide (unanimous)
• Approved probationary appointment of Crystal Laxen, Registered Nurse (unanimous)
• Ended probation and made Jessica Veenstra permanent County Agency Social Worker Team Lead (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of quilt donations (19 from Robin Koenig, 6 from Keith Brekken, 6 from Augustana Lutheran Church, 5 from Temperance Lake Ridge) (unanimous)
• Approved monthly financial claims totaling $311,964.25, including $7,179.03 credit card payment (unanimous)
• Approved second 3‑year Citizen’s Representative term for Kimberly Hall (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The County Board will discuss capital purchases for the Madelia Sheriff's office and approve final payments for the Elm Creek and CSAH 27 bridges. The meeting includes a closed session regarding a pond easement for Ditch Authority J.D. 26.

• Final payment approval for Elm Creek and CSAH 27 Bridges (SAP 083-599-078 & 083-627-025)
• Professional services agreement for Bridge 83505 (SAP 083-626-007)
• Madelia capital purchases for Sheriff Jared Bergeman
• Tax Forfeiture Classification Resolution
• Pond Permanent/Temporary Easement for Ditch Authority J.D. 26

The Watonford County Board authorized John Kolb to present land offers, approved a $76,538 capital purchase for the Madelia Police Department, and classified six tax‑forfeited parcels as non‑conservation lands. It also approved the final $1,999,758.03 payment for bridge construction on Elm Creek Road and CSAH 27, accepted the SEH proposal for Bridge 83505, hired Deputy Sheriff Luis Martinez, and adopted the AFSCME labor contract for 2026‑2027.

• Authorized John Kolb to present offers to landowners (unanimous)
• Approved $76,538 capital purchase from Madelia Police Department (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills: General Fund $469,562.03; Solid Waste Fund $2,157.69; Soil & Water Conservation $439.19; Ditch Fund $26,797.78; Agency Fund $345.00; Road and Bridge Fund $64,479.62 (unanimous)
• Classified six tax‑forfeited parcels as non‑conservation lands (unanimous)
• Approved final payment of $1,999,758.03 for Elm Creek Road and CSAH 27 bridge construction (unanimous)
• Accepted SEH proposal for Bridge 83505 replacement (4‑1)
• Approved hiring of Deputy Sheriff Luis Martinez (unanimous)
• Approved AFSCME contract for Jan 1 2026 – Dec 31 2027 (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will consider routine items including approval of the meeting minutes and commissioner bills. It will ratify the end-of-year voucher payments. Additional items include appointments to committees, setting minimum salaries for elected officials, a tobacco license for the Village Inn, and a notice of Nicollet County’s withdrawal from the Rural MN Energy Board.

• End-of-Year Voucher Ratification
• Tobacco License – Village Inn
• Notice of Nicollet County’s Withdrawal from Rural MN Energy Board
• Elected Officials Minimum Salaries
• Commissioner Appointments – Committees and AMC Policy Committees

The board elected Scott Westman as Chairman and Bill Miller as Vice‑Chairman for 2026. It approved several payments and contracts, including hiring an on‑call deputy and the Law Enforcement MOA that adds Minnesota paid‑leave language. Additional approvals covered the legal newspaper, minimum elected‑official salaries, a tobacco license, and per‑diem for a drainage conference. All motions passed unanimously.

• Elected Scott Westman as Chairman for 2026 (unanimous)
• Elected Bill Miller as Vice‑Chairman for 2026 (unanimous)
• Hired Christopher Burban as on‑call deputy (unanimous)
• Approved Law Enforcement contract with paid‑leave provisions (unanimous)
• Approved contract for non‑licensed jailers and dispatchers (unanimous)
• Approved payment of End‑of‑Year vouchers: Road & Bridge Fund $100,431.54; General Fund $60,326.45 (unanimous)
• Approved tobacco license for Village Inn (unanimous)
• Approved per diem for attendance at Drainage Conference (unanimous)