Watonwan County public meetings in 2025

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The board voted 4-1 to approve an additional contribution request from South Central MN Multi-County HRA to fund operating expenses because HUD voucher payments were delayed. The motion was moved by Commissioner Pettersen and seconded by Commissioner Westman, with Commissioner Melheim opposing. The board also unanimously approved an adjournment at 8:55 A.M.

• Approved additional contribution request to South Central MN Multi-County HRA (4-1)
• Approved unanimous adjournment at 8:55 A.M.

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Human Services Board will meet to approve contracts, committee reports, and agency updates. The agenda includes a presentation from the Local Mental Health Advisory Council and a director's report.

• Approval of 2026 Guardianship Service Agreements with Ethical Solutions LLC and Lutheran Social Services
• Approval of 2026 Detoxification and Evaluation Service Agreement with Brown County Evaluation Center Inc.
• Approval of 2026 MFIP / DWP Service Agreement with Minnesota Valley Action Council, Inc.
• Presentation by the Local Mental Health Advisory Council (LAC)
• Director's report on agency operations including an Opioid Grant Request

The board unanimously approved a $10,700 purchase of an outdoor AED and Naloxone cabinet for a county community and accepted a $5,000 donation for an outreach coat drive. It also approved the 2025 accounts receivable write‑off of $12,318.55 and monthly financial claims totaling $197,012.04. Several 2026 service agreements were adopted, including contracts for MFIP/DWP, guardianship, detoxification, family‑group decision making, and a lease for the Forever Friends Clubhouse. Kimberly Hall was reappointed as citizen representative and board leadership nominations were confirmed.

• Approved $10,700 AED and Naloxone cabinet purchase (unanimous)
• Accepted $5,000 Medica donation for coat drive (unanimous)
• Approved $12,318.55 2025 accounts receivable write‑off (unanimous)
• Approved $197,012.04 monthly financial claims (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 MFIP/DWP Service Agreement with Minnesota Valley Action Council (unanimous)
• Approved 2026‑2027 Guardianship and Conservator Service Agreement with Ethical Solutions LLC (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Detoxification and Evaluation Service Agreement with Brown County Evaluation Center Inc. (unanimous)
• Reappointed Kimberly Hall as citizen representative (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The County Board will meet to establish the 2026 tax levy and budget. The agenda includes a public hearing regarding the 2026 fee schedule and a review of the fee schedule for cities and townships. Members will also address 2026 salaries for elected officials.

• Public hearing on 2026 Fee Schedule
• Setting of 2026 Tax Levy and Budget
• 2026 Fuel Supply and Delivery Bids
• Tobacco Licenses for Darfur Lounge and City of Butterfield
• 2026 Elected Officials Salaries

The board unanimously adopted the 2026 county budget and set the property net tax levy at $13,581,466, a 6.0% increase. It also approved the 2026 fee schedule, the jail‑meal contract with Village Inn, final bridge‑replacement payments, and a fuel supply contract with Crystal Valley Coop (approved 4‑1). Additional unanimous actions included sponsoring Nelson Township for PROTECT and Local Road Improvement grants, granting electronic funds‑transfer authority to Auditor/Treasurer Kelly Pauling, and setting commissioner salaries and per‑diems for 2026.

• Adopted 2026 budget and set property net tax levy at $13,581,466 (6.0% increase) – unanimous
• Approved 2026 fee schedule – unanimous
• Approved jail‑meal contract with Village Inn – unanimous
• Approved final payments for bridge projects SAP 083‑599‑079 ($610,066.85) and SAP 083‑656‑007 ($187,318.34) – unanimous
• Approved fuel supply contract with Crystal Valley Coop, total $331,621 – 4:1 (Westman opposed)
• Approved resolutions to sponsor Nelson Township for PROTECT and Local Road Improvement grants – unanimous
• Approved electronic funds‑transfer authority for Auditor/Treasurer Kelly Pauling – unanimous
• Set county commissioner base salary at $24,411.37 and per‑diem $85 – unanimous

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors will decide on several local and GBERBA conservation contracts, including funding for cover crops and windbreaks. The board will also act on the cancellation of three contracts due to project failures or contractor unavailability.

• Contract 25-SH-06 for Windbreak Shelterbelt establishment: $34,999.20
• Contract 83-1-1 for NRCS Cover Crops: $20,601.00
• Contract 23-01 for grassed waterway: $8,775.00 cost share
• Cancellation of contracts 25-CC-01, 25-CC-02, and 23-LCG-AW-01
• Contract 26-CC-01 for Tree and Shrub establishment: $5,000.00

The board approved the agenda, minutes, $101.25 in bills and supervisor per diems, and gave Carrie Schultz signing authority. It also approved multiple conservation contracts—such as a $7,000 WBIF contract and a $35,000 windbreak project—and cancelled two grass‑termination contracts and one NRCS contract.

• Approved agenda amendment (Ekstrom, Enger, Wolle)
• Approved meeting minutes (Ekstrom, Enger, Wolle)
• Approved payment of bills $101.25 (Ekstrom, Enger, Wolle)
• Approved supervisor per diems (Ekstrom, Enger, Wolle)
• Granted Carrie Schultz signing authority (Wolle, Ekstrom)
• Approved $7,000 WBIF contract WBIF‑WW‑24‑83‑04 (Ekstrom, Enger, Wolle)
• Approved $35,000 windbreak contract 25‑SH‑06 (Enger, Ekstrom; Wolle abstained)
• Cancelled contracts 25‑CC‑01 and 25‑CC‑02 (Ekstrom, Enger, Wolle)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will discuss several items at its December 2 meeting. Items include a final hearing on the redetermination of benefits, an update on drainage projects, and a presentation of the City of Madelia law enforcement contract. The board will also consider a traffic‑control resolution and approve quotations for crack filler and mastic materials.

• City of Madelia Law Enforcement Contract
• Resolution directing traffic control
• Motion Approving Quotation for Crack Filler Material
• Motion Approving Quotation for Mastic Material
• 2026 MN City Participation Program (MCPP) Application and Agreement

The Watonwan County Board unanimously approved the contract for law enforcement services with the City of Madelia. It adopted a resolution changing the intersection of CSAH 19 and 390th Street to a stop control for traffic on 390th Street. The board also approved a five‑year recycling contract with West Central Sanitation and authorized the 2026 Minnesota City Participation Program application for first‑time home‑buyer loans. Additional approvals included crack‑filler material quotations, payment of various fund bills, and several employee retirements and separations.

• Approved law enforcement contract with City of Madelia (unanimous)
• Approved traffic control resolution: side‑street stop at 390th St & CSAH 19 (unanimous)
• Approved five‑year recycling contract with West Central Sanitation (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Minnesota City Participation Program application (unanimous)
• Approved Midstates Equipment & Supply quotation for crack filler and mastic materials (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills across General, Solid Waste, Library, Soil & Water Conservation, Ditch, and Road & Bridge funds (unanimous)
• Approved retirements of Bill Coleman and Heidi Engel in good standing (unanimous)
• Approved separation of Chelsea Singelstad during probationary employment period (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Human Services Board will discuss the Public Health Opioid Grant. It will adopt several 2026 service agreements and the Minnesota Merit System Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action guidelines. The board will also accept donations for an outreach coat drive and address personnel actions such as a probationary appointment and a resignation.

• Public Health Opioid Grant discussion
• Accept donations: Goldschmidt Moving $1,000; Koch Services, LLC $250; Romsdahl Companies $1,000
• Adopt 2026 Family Based Services Agreement with Greater Minnesota Family Services
• Adopt 2026 Guardianship Services Agreement with Prairie Support Services
• Adopt Minnesota Merit System Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action guidelines (DHS Bulletin #23-89-01) for 11/5/2025‑11/5/2027

The board unanimously approved $16,000 for speakers at local schools, $50,000 for mini‑grant options, and $8,000 for staffing under the opioid grant. It also unanimously approved three 2026 service agreements with Greater Minnesota Family Services, Prairie Support Services, and Stepping Stones Mental Health Center. Additional unanimous actions included approving monthly financial claims of $262,059.71, a one‑step pay increase for Director Amy Pluym, and personnel appointments and resignations.

• Approved $16,000 for school speakers (opioid grant) – unanimous
• Approved $50,000 for mini‑grant options (opioid grant) – unanimous
• Approved $8,000 for staffing dollars (opioid grant) – unanimous
• Approved 2026 Family Based Services Agreement with Greater Minnesota Family Services – unanimous
• Approved 2026 Guardianship Services Agreement with Prairie Support Services – unanimous
• Approved 2026 Mental Health Client Assistance Program with Stepping Stones Mental Health Center – unanimous
• Approved monthly financial claims of $262,059.71 – unanimous
• Approved one‑step pay increase for Director Amy Pluym – unanimous

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The board will consider 2026 economic development funding presented by CEDA. It will receive an update on the Watonwan County AHA loan program and discuss the Kotulski Peaceful Prairie conditional use permit. Law‑enforcement topics include an annual body‑camera audit, a joint powers agreement for the MN River Valley Drug Task Force, and a service agreement.

• 2026 Economic Development Funding (CEDA presentation)
• Watonwan County AHA Loan Program Update
• Kotulski Peaceful Prairie Conditional Use Permit (CUP)
• Annual Body Camera Audit
• MN River Valley Drug Task Force Joint Powers Agreement

The Watonwan County Board unanimously approved moving the 2026 Economic Development Administration funding from the M.A.R.C. program to the City of Madelia. It also approved payment of audited bills, a conditional use permit for the Peaceful Prairie Retreat cabin, and a $50,790 bridge‑inspection bid from APEX Engineering Group. Additional unanimous actions included staff appointments and the Minnesota River Valley Drug Task Force joint powers agreement.

• Redirected 2026 EDA funding from M.A.R.C. to the City of Madelia (unanimous)
• Approved payment of audited bills totaling $152,347.61 across five funds (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use permit for Peaceful Prairie Retreat cabin with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved submission of the 2026‑2027 MPCA County Feedlot Program Delegation Agreement Work Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Minnesota River Valley Drug Task Force Joint Powers Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved $50,790 bid from APEX Engineering Group for bridge safety inspections (unanimous)
• Approved on‑call appointment of Jenna Thom as Dispatcher (unanimous)
• Approved satisfactory completion of Crystal Reed’s probationary period (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Watonwan Soil and Water Conservation District board will discuss financial reports, approve bills, and act on grant extensions and a peer-to-peer mentor program. The meeting includes updates from various conservation staff and reports from regional alliances.

• SWCD bills to pay
• Supervisor Per Diem approval
• Grant extensions for FY24/25 Conservation Contracts
• Peer to Peer Mentor action
• Sod Stripper discussion

The Watonwan Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved the amended agenda and prior meeting minutes. It authorized payment of $71,401.53 in outstanding bills. The board also approved a Peer‑to‑Peer Mentor contract (Reid Olson SCH‑FY24‑83‑01), grant extensions for FY24/25 conservation contracts, and the schedule of upcoming meetings. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 9, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved paying bills totaling $71,401.53 (unanimous)
• Approved Peer‑to‑Peer Mentor contract Reid Olson SCH‑FY24‑83‑01 (unanimous)
• Approved grant extensions for FY24/25 conservation contracts (unanimous)
• Approved upcoming meeting schedule as presented (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will review and vote on bids, testing services, and sand‑for‑snow contracts for Project SP 083-090-007, Watline Trail Phase 2. It will also adopt a limited‑use permit with MnDOT for trail sections in Trunk Highways 4 and 60 and receive an update on the closure of bridge 83502. Additional items include a travel policy for the Veterans Service Officer, fees for household hazardous waste, an online access agreement for the County Recorder, and several miscellaneous resolutions and license considerations.

• Consideration of bids on Project SP 083-090-007, Watline Trail Phase 2
• Motion approving testing services for Project SP 083-090-007, Watline Trail Phase 2
• Motion approving quotations for snow and ice control sand
• Resolution entering Limited Use Permit No. 8301-0008 with MnDOT for Watline Trail portions of Trunk Highway 4 and 60 rights‑of‑way
• Update on closure of bridge 83502

The Watonwan County Board approved a contract with Dirt Merchant Inc. to improve Watline Trail Phase 2, passing the motion 4‑1. It also unanimously approved a limited‑use permit for non‑motorized trail use along Trunk Highway 4 and set the county minimum wage at 1 % above the federal level. Discussion of the Minnesota Nuclear Energy Alliance was tabled.

• Approved contract with Dirt Merchant Inc. for Watline Trail Phase 2 improvement (4‑1)
• Approved Limited Use Permit No. 8301‑0008 for non‑motorized trail on TH 4 (unanimous)
• Approved minimum wage set to 1 % above federal minimum wage (unanimous)
• Approved St. James Golf Course liquor license (unanimous)
• Approved Casey’s General Store 2026 tobacco license at Butterfield location (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Mike Carlson and Jay Mickelson to Red Rock Rural Water System Board (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Molly Simmons as Soil Health Outreach/District Technician (unanimous)
• Tabled Minnesota Nuclear Energy Alliance discussion (no vote recorded)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board will consider several service and construction agreements, including a medical examiner contract and emergency on‑call law enforcement services presented by the sheriff. The board will also review a cooperative construction agreement with the City of Butterfield and decide on awarding the recycling contract. Additional items include routine minutes, financial reports, and the sale of surplus equipment.

• Medical Examiner Contract Agreement (Sheriff's Office)
• Emergency On-Call Law Enforcement Services (Sheriff's Office)
• Cooperative Construction Agreement – City of Butterfield (County Engineer)
• Awarding of Recycling Contract
• MnBid – Sale of Surplus Equipment

The Watonwan County Board unanimously approved several contracts and actions, including a recycling services contract with West Central Sanitation for $1,033,788 covering 2026‑2030. Other approvals covered the Medical Examiner contract, an on‑call law enforcement agreement with Madelia, a construction agreement with Butterfield, and the sale of county vehicles. The board also adopted the agenda, paid audited bills, and set oversight for aquatic invasive species prevention.

• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved payment of audited bills and credit cards (unanimous)
• Approved Medical Examiner Contract with River Valley Forensic Services effective 1/1/2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Emergency On‑call Law Enforcement Services Agreement with City of Madelia (unanimous)
• Approved Cooperative Construction Agreement with City of Butterfield (unanimous)
• Approved Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Aid resolution (unanimous)
• Approved sale of county vehicles at public auction (unanimous)
• Approved West Central Sanitation low‑bid recycling contract $1,033,788 for 2026‑30 (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Human Services Board will consider routine items such as approving minutes, the agenda, and agency reports. It will decide on personnel actions for two staff members and will approve a Master Contract Agreement with MVAC covering SNAP Support Services ($127) and SNAP Employment & Training services ($350) for FY 2025‑2026.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• End of probation / permanent status for Juan De La Riva Carpio, Public Health Nurse
• Probationary appointment of Crystal Kessler, County Agency Social Worker
• Master Contract Agreement with MVAC for SNAP Support Services ($127) for 7/1/2025 – 6/30/2026
• Master Contract Agreement with MVAC for SNAP E&T 100% Services ($350) for 10/1/2025 – 9/30/2026

The Human Services Board voted 6‑1 to decline the COVID grant opportunity. The board unanimously accepted a $16,315.28 quote from Helmer Scientific for vaccine‑storage equipment. It also unanimously approved a Master Contract Agreement with Minnesota Valley Action Council for SNAP services. Personnel actions were approved, including making a public health nurse permanent and appointing a new social worker.

• Declined COVID grant funding (6‑1 vote)
• Accepted Helmer Scientific quote $16,315.28 for refrigeration equipment (unanimous)
• Approved SNAP Support Services contract $127 and SNAP E&T contract $350 with MVAC (unanimous)
• Approved end of probation and permanent status for Juan De La Riva Carpio, Public Health Nurse (unanimous)
• Approved probationary appointment of Crystal Kessler, County Agency Social Worker (unanimous)
• Approved monthly financial claims totaling $126,886.56 (unanimous)
• Approved agency closure for staff training on Oct 20, 2025, 8:30‑11:00 a.m. (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors will consider approvals for several well decommissioning contracts and amendments. The board is also reviewing a draft audit and signatory authority for RCPP.

• Contract 23-LCG-AW-05: Well decommissioning with a new cost share of $555.00
• Contract 24-CC-02: Well decommissioning with an actual cost of $1,126.44
• Contract WBIF-WW-24-83-09: Well decommissioning with an actual cost of $2,500.00
• Action on draft audit
• Action on RCPP Signatory Authority

The Watonwan Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved the amended agenda and September meeting minutes. It authorized payment of $585.89 in bills, supervisor per‑diem, the Soil Health Grant Policy, and gave signatory authority for RCPP grants to Carrie Schultz and temporary authority to Laura Quiring. The board also approved amendments and payments for two well‑decommissioning contracts (23‑LCG‑AW‑05 and 24‑CC‑02) and adopted the upcoming meeting schedule.

• Approve amended agenda (motion carried)
• Approve September 9, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approve payment of bills totaling $585.89 (motion carried)
• Approve supervisors per diem as presented (motion carried)
• Approve Soil Health Grant Policy (motion carried)
• Grant RCPP signatory authority to Carrie Schultz (motion carried)
• Approve amendment and payment for contract 23‑LCG‑AW‑05 ($1,110 cost, $555 share) (motion carried)
• Approve amendment and payment for contract 24‑CC‑02 ($1,126.44 cost, $563.22 share) (motion carried)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The board will discuss a redetermination of benefits and set a final hearing date of November 20 at 9:00 am. It will review quotes for furnace replacements and several infrastructure items, including a municipal maintenance agreement, a repair of County State‑Aid Highway 56, and a culvert replacement on County State‑Aid Highway 15. An update on Capital Improvement Project SP 083‑090‑007 will be provided. Miscellaneous items include minutes, commissioner and credit card bills, MVAC notice of funds #1, and personnel matters.

• Quotes for furnace replacements
• Municipal Maintenance Agreement
• Quote for repair of CSAH 56
• Quote for replacement of culvert on CSAH 15
• Redetermination of benefits – final hearing set for Nov 20

The board unanimously approved several financial and operational items, including payment of audited bills, SNAP funding notices, and routine road maintenance agreements with St. James and Madelia effective Jan 1 2026. It also approved construction quotes for CSAH 56 repair, a culvert replacement on CSAH 15, and furnace/air‑conditioner units at Human Services. The board adopted the Findings and Order to initiate a redetermination of benefits for County Ditch 1 and set a public hearing on Nov 20 2025.

• Approved payment of audited bills and credit cards as listed (unanimous)
• Approved notice of funds for 2026 SNAP support ($127 and $298) (unanimous)
• Approved municipal routine CSAH maintenance agreements with St. James and Madelia effective Jan 1 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved $21,828.64 quote to repair CSAH 56 (unanimous)
• Approved $53,085.00 quote to replace culvert on CSAH 15 (unanimous)
• Approved $26,320.30 quote for furnace and air‑conditioner units at Human Services (unanimous)
• Approved Findings and Order to initiate redetermination of benefits for County Ditch 1 (unanimous)
• Set public hearing on County Ditch 1 for Nov 20 2025 at 9:00 am (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Human Services Board will consider a biennial service agreement for the Minnesota Family Investment Program covering 2026‑2027. The agenda also includes a memorandum of agreement for the Collaborative for Rural Public Health Innovation with Faribault and Martin Counties. Additional items are presentations on statewide health improvement and a community health improvement plan, and a personnel decision on Janelle Bowman's probation status.

• 2026‑2027 Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) Biennial Service Agreement with MN Department of Human Services
• Collaborative for Rural Public Health Innovation (CRPHI) Memorandum of Agreement with Faribault and Martin Counties
• Statewide Health Improvement Partnership presentation by Kaley Hernandez
• CHIP / CHA Project presentation by Elizabeth Radel Freeman
• End of probation / permanent status decision for Janelle Bowman, Family Based Services Provider

The Human Services Board unanimously approved the Collaborative For Rural Public Health Innovation (CRPHI) Memorandum of Agreement with Faribault and Martin Counties. It also approved the 2026‑2027 Minnesota Family Investment Program service agreement, permanent status for provider Janelle Bowman, monthly financial claims of $243,409.28, and two mini grants for local schools. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved CRPHI Memorandum of Agreement with Faribault and Martin Counties (unanimous)
• Approved 2026‑2027 MFIP Biennial Service Agreement with Minnesota DHS (unanimous)
• Approved permanent status for Janelle Bowman, Family Based Services Provider (unanimous)
• Approved monthly financial claims totaling $243,409.28 (unanimous)
• Approved two mini grants: math technology for Northside Elementary and smart board for Butterfield‑Odin Daycare (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 19, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved agenda for September 17, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:54 A.M. (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The County Board will meet to review the 2026 proposed budget and the 2025 MCIT Board Report. The agenda includes a review of dust control quotes and a labor negotiation committee meeting.

• 2026 Proposed Budget and TNT Meeting
• Dust Control Quotes presented by County Engineer Michael McCarty
• National Opioid Settlement Participation Agreements
• 2025 MCIT Board Report from Joe Cieminski
• JD 8 W&B and JD 26 IRS Reimbursement Resolution

The Watonwan County Board unanimously approved a 2026 levy of $13,581,466, a 14.96% insurance premium increase, and a resolution establishing procedures for compliance with reimbursement bond regulations. The board also approved payment of county bills, the lowest dust‑control quote from Freeborn County Co‑Op, hiring of a senior technical clerk, and authorizations for opioid settlement agreements. Several staff resignations were accepted, and the meeting was adjourned at 11:21 a.m.

• Approved 2026 levy at $13,581,466 (6% increase) – unanimous
• Approved 14.96% insurance premium increase – unanimous
• Approved Resolution No. 25.12 on reimbursement bond compliance – unanimous
• Approved payment of county bills totaling $74,012.51 (General Fund) and other funds – unanimous
• Approved lowest dust‑control quote $1.32/gallon from Freeborn County Co‑Op – unanimous
• Approved hiring of Erin Stearns as Sr. Technical Clerk, start Sep 29 – unanimous
• Approved authorization for Kelly Pauling to sign two National Opioid Settlement Participation Agreements – unanimous
• Approved resignations in good standing of multiple staff members – unanimous

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Watonwan County Soil & Water Conservation District Board will review and act on multiple contracts for well decommissioning. Items include amendments to Contract 24-CC-03, final approval of Contract 24-CC-03, and approval of Contract 23-LCG-AW-04. The board will also discuss three WBIF grant contracts with estimated costs of $2,500, $2,650, and $1,950. A November meeting date will be set.

• Amendment 1 to Contract 24-CC-03: new estimated cost $942.50, cost share $471.25
• Final approval of Contract 24-CC-03: estimated and actual cost $942.50, cost share $471.25
• Approval of Contract 23-LCG-AW-04: estimated cost $1,080.00, actual cost $942.50, slippage $68.75, cost share $471.25
• Discussion of WBIF-WW-24-83-09 contract: estimated cost $2,500, cost share $1,000
• Discussion of WBIF-WW-24-83-10 contract: estimated cost $2,650, cost share $1,000

The board unanimously approved payment of $1,716.39 in bills and moved the November meeting to November 12 at 8:30 a.m. It cancelled contract 24‑CC‑03 Amendment 1 and approved three new contracts for well decommissioning and a windbreak project. The schedule of upcoming meetings was also approved.

• Approved payment of bills $1,716.39 (unanimous)
• Moved November meeting to Nov 12 at 8:30 a.m. (unanimous)
• Cancelled contract 24‑CC‑03 Amendment 1 (unanimous)
• Approved contract 24‑CC‑03 for NRCS 351 well decommissioning (unanimous)
• Approved contract 23‑LCG‑AW‑04 for NRCS 351 well decommissioning (unanimous)
• Approved contract 25‑SH‑07 for NRCS 380 windbreak (unanimous)
• Approved upcoming meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:09 a.m. (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board approved its agenda and minutes, authorized payments of audited bills, and adopted a resolution establishing a UOCAVA Ballot Board for the 2025 election cycle. The Board also rejected the sole bid for the Watline Trail Phase 2 project, approved the purchase of snow‑salt at $87.32 per ton, and approved several staffing actions. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the September 2 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved payment of audited bills totaling $115,712.63 across multiple funds (unanimous)
• Established the Watonwan County UOCAVA Ballot Board for 2025 elections (unanimous)
• Rejected the only bid for Watline Trail Phase 2, citing a 23.9% over‑estimate (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of snow‑salt from Johnson Feed, Inc. at $87.32 per ton (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of a new full‑time TMT bus driver (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of Shawn Odegaard as full‑time Deputy (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Human Services Board unanimously approved the monthly financial claims totaling $243,104.55, which includes an $11,589.84 credit‑card payment. It also unanimously approved an interagency agreement with Madelia Public School to provide transportation for students in foster care. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved monthly financial claims of $243,104.55 (unanimous)
• Approved interagency agreement with Madelia Public School for foster‑care student transportation (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board unanimously approved several items, including a conditional use permit for Xcel Energy, the sale of a surplus toolbox, payment of audited bills, a Relay for Life lease, and the acceptance of the 2024 State Homeland Security Program grant. The board also approved the award of a $292,065 contract to Everstrong Construction for pedestrian bridges in Eagles Nest Park and authorized repurchase of three tax‑forfeited parcels. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda amendment (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 5 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Xcel Energy (unanimous)
• Approved sale of surplus toolbox on MnBid (unanimous)
• Approved payment of audited bills totaling $250,? (unanimous)
• Approved Relay for Life lease agreement for Sep 20 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of $4,950 State Homeland Security Program grant (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Everstrong Construction Inc ($292,065) for pedestrian bridges (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The board approved paying $125,061.33 in bills. It adopted the Soil Health Grant Policy and its ranking sheet. Three conservation contracts were approved while one contract was cancelled. Upcoming meeting dates were also approved.

• Approved paying bills $125,061.33 (4-0)
• Approved Soil Health Grant Policy (4-0)
• Approved Soil Health Grant ranking sheet (4-0)
• Cancelled contract 24-CC-04 (4-0)
• Approved contract 25-CC-01 (4-0)
• Approved contract 25-CC-02 (4-0)
• Approved supervisors per diem (4-0)
• Approved upcoming meeting schedule (4-0)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board approved the agenda and minutes, appointed Bill Miller to the countywide housing study steering committee, and accepted a $17,900 roof repair quote for the courthouse jail. The board also accepted a MetLife private plan quote, approved resignations of two staff members, and authorized payment of audited bills as listed by fund. All actions passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 15 meeting (unanimous)
• Appointed Bill Miller to housing study steering committee (unanimous)
• Approved Jackson & Associates LLC roof repair quote $17,900 (unanimous)
• Accepted MetLife private plan quote (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Jeffrey Henning in good standing (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Nicholas Kielas not in good standing (unanimous)
• Approved payment of audited bills as listed by fund (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Human Services Board unanimously approved a resolution terminating the county’s involvement in the South Central Regional Immtrack Joint Powers Agreement. It also approved several housing support agreements, routine personnel actions, and the regular monthly financial claims. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved resolution to terminate Watonwan County’s participation in the South Central Regional Immtrack Joint Powers Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Housing Support Agreements with Good Samaritan Society – BrandtRidge (St. James), Community Options & Resources (Madelia), REM Heartland, Inc. – Groves Way (Madelia) and REM Heartland, Inc. – Mill Race Rd (Madelia) (unanimous)
• Approved resignation of Kenneth McChristion, County Agency Social Worker (unanimous)
• Approved probationary appointment of Melissa Schallock, County Agency Social Worker – Licensor (unanimous)
• Approved retirement of Sharon Werth, Community Support Technician (unanimous)
• Approved regular monthly financial claims and credit card payments as presented (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the June 18, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved the agenda for the July 16, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonford County Board approved several items, including a cloud‑storage contract for 911 calls, a $173,924 road‑striping quote, and the Stormwater Resiliency Plan for Madelia. It also approved commissioner benefit options, a retirement, and an additional pay scale for a transit assistant. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved County Sheriff Jared Bergeman signing the cloud‑storage contract for 911 calls (unanimous)
• Approved $173,924.00 quote from Sir Lines‑A‑Lot for striping east county roads (unanimous)
• Adopted the Stormwater Resiliency Plan for the City of Madelia (unanimous)
• Approved payment of audited bills: General Fund $43.462.06; Ditch Fund $30,784.09; Road and Bridge Fund $140.333.37 (unanimous)
• Approved benefit options for Commissioners (unanimous)
• Approved retirement in good standing of Library Attendant Dawn Junker (unanimous)
• Approved additional pay scale for Transit Assistant Leah Heffele when driving (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:00 A.M. (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The board approved paying $2,852 in bills and authorized a $11,728 contract (24-CC-04) for NRCS windbreak/shelterbelt work, with a $5,000 cost‑share. They also approved the district manager’s professional development training attendance and adopted the schedule of upcoming meetings. All motions were carried without opposition.

• Approved paying bills totaling $2,852 (motion carried)
• Approved contract 24-CC-04 for $11,728 windbreak/shelterbelt project (motion carried)
• Approved Schultz attending District Manager Professional Development training (motion carried)
• Approved upcoming meeting schedule for August‑September 2025 (motion carried)
• Approved amended agenda for July 8, 2025 (motion carried)
• Approved amended minutes for June 10, 2025 (motion carried)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board approved the agenda, the Avera Hospital contract, and several payments and agreements. It also authorized the County Auditor/Treasurer and County Engineer to sign the Eagles Nest Park Bridge replacement contract, approved a fairgrounds lease for a September vendor show, and appointed a new probation administrative assistant. All motions passed unanimously except the approval of June 17 minutes, which passed 4‑1 with one abstention.

• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved Avera Hospital Contract (unanimous)
• Approved June 17 meeting minutes (4-1, Westman abstained)
• Approved payment of audited bills and credit‑card charges (unanimous)
• Approved Red Rock Rural Waters Joint Powers agreement (unanimous)
• Authorized signing of Eagles Nest Park Bridge replacement contract (unanimous)
• Approved Fairgrounds lease for September vendor show (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Chelsea Singelstad as Probation Administrative Assistant (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Human Services Board unanimously approved the 2025‑2027 Fraud Prevention Investigation Grant contract with the Department of Children, Youth and Families. It also approved the regular monthly financial claims, a $1,500 mini grant for a suicide‑awareness walk, and the probationary appointment of Eligibility Worker Heidi Oanes. The board adopted the meeting minutes, agenda, and set the next meeting for July 16, 2025.

• Approved 2025‑2027 Fraud Prevention Investigation Grant contract with DCYF (unanimous)
• Approved regular monthly financial claims and credit‑card payments (unanimous)
• Approved $1,500 mini grant for No One Walks Alone Suicide Awareness Walk (unanimous)
• Approved probationary appointment of Eligibility Worker Heidi Oanes (unanimous)
• Approved amended minutes of May 21, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved amended agenda for June 18, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The board unanimously approved a resolution (Resolution No. 25.08) to apply for the 2026 Greater Minnesota Transit Operating and Capital Grants, to provide up to 15% of operating costs and up to 20% of capital costs, and to authorize the Transit Director and County Auditor/Treasurer to execute the agreement. It also approved contracts for weed control ($12,000) and road paving ($30,927), approved payment of various county bills, and approved hiring of an on‑call jailer and a dispatcher. Additional actions included increasing Sheriff Jared Bergeman’s employee Shay Forstrom’s hours to 40 per week, selling six used AR‑Uppers, designating Kelly Pauling as the Identified Official with Authority, and rescheduling the JD‑38 public hearing to July 15.

• Approved resolution to apply for 2026 Greater Minnesota Transit Grants and provide local share (unanimously)
• Approved $12,000 weed‑control contract with Roadside Vegetation Management (unanimously)
• Approved $30,927 paving contract with MR Paving & Excavating, Inc. (unanimously)
• Approved hiring of Jacob Carr as on‑call jailer (effective June 12) (unanimously)
• Approved hiring of Julie Hellendrung as dispatcher (effective June 30) (unanimously)
• Approved increase of Shay Forstrom’s hours from 35 to 40 per week (unanimously)
• Approved sale of six used AR‑Uppers by Sheriff Jared Bergeman (unanimously)
• Approved designation of Kelly Pauling as Identified Official with Authority (unanimously)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The SWCD Board approved several financial items, including payment of $21,517.99 in bills and a $4,000 contribution to Pheasants Forever. It also approved a fiscal host agreement with Watonwan County JD 26 and adopted three contracts, the largest being a $321,368 professional‑engineer design for an 810‑million‑gallon storage treatment wetland. All motions carried with the listed members voting affirmatively.

• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $21,517.99 in bills (unanimous)
• Approved supervisors per diem (unanimous)
• Approved $4,000 payment to Pheasants Forever (unanimous)
• Approved fiscal host agreement with Watonwan County JD 26 (unanimous)
• Approved contract 25-PP-01 for $321,368 wetland design (unanimous)
• Approved contract 25-SH-06 for $35,000 cover crops (Braaten, Ekstrom, Enger; Wolle abstained)
• Approved contract 25-CC-03 for $805 well decommissioning (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board adopted Resolution No. 25.07 to move forward with a new public works facility, ordering design work and the issuance of a request for proposals. Commissioners also appointed a committee for the project, approved routine bill payments, accepted a resignation, and hired two summer workers. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved minutes of the May 20 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved the agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 25.07 to improve public works facilities, develop RFP and approve plans/specifications (unanimous)
• Appointed Scott Westman and Dillon Melheim as committee members for the new facility, with Jim Pettersen as alternate (unanimous)
• Approved payment of audited bills and credit‑card charges as listed (unanimous)
• Accepted the resignation of Michele Zamora (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of summer workers Samuel Baumgartner and Ethan Leimer (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:28 A.M. (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The board approved a purchase‑service agreement with Independent School ISD 840 to provide transportation for students in foster care placements for July 1 2025 through June 30 2026. It also amended the previously approved opioid settlement allocation, designating $500 for brochures and $4,500 for staffing. Additional unanimous approvals included monthly financial claims, a cooperative agreement with NorthStar Data Partners, and authorizing the director to sign state contracts with terminology changes.

• Approved amendment of opioid settlement allocation: $500 for brochures, $4,500 for staffing – unanimous
• Approved monthly financial claims and credit‑card payments as presented – unanimous
• Approved Cooperative Agreement with NorthStar Data Partners, LLC for FPHR grant support – unanimous
• Approved Purchase of Service Agreement with Independent School ISD 840 for foster‑care student transportation – unanimous
• Approved Director Amy Pluym to sign state contracts with terminology changes only – unanimous

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The board unanimously approved a contract with M & K Bridge Construction Inc to replace bridge 83556 on 710th Avenue in Nelson Township. It also authorized a 5‑year lease of farmland in Rosendale Township at $100 per acre with a 4‑1 vote. Additional approvals included the JD 26 Conservation Practice Assistance Contract, the county fair liquor license, and scheduling of JD 38 and JD 26 hearings.

• Approved bridge replacement contract with M & K Bridge Construction Inc (unanimous)
• Authorized 5‑year farmland lease in Rosendale Township at $100 per acre (4:1, Miller opposed)
• Approved JD 26 Conservation Practice Assistance Contract and SWCD Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Watonwan County Fair Liquor License (unanimous)
• Approved setting JD 38 Abandonment Hearing for June 25 at 12:30 PM (unanimous)
• Approved setting JD 26 Final Hearing for June 25 at 1:00 PM (unanimous)
• Approved payment of audited bills totaling $... (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and minutes as amended (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The board approved payment of $25,151.55 in bills. It approved several conservation contracts, including 25‑SH‑04, 25‑SH‑05, 24‑CC‑01, 25‑SH‑01, and 25‑SH‑02. A discussion on the Buffer Law was tabled for a future meeting. The board also approved the upcoming meeting schedule and adjourned.

• Approved $25,151.55 bill payments
• Approved contract 25‑SH‑04 (NRCS 612 Tree and Shrub establishment)
• Approved contract 25‑SH‑05 (NRCS 612 Tree and Shrub establishment)
• Approved contract 24‑CC‑01 (NRCS 612 Tree and Shrub establishment)
• Approved contract 25‑SH‑01 (NRCS 612 Tree and Shrub establishment)
• Approved contract 25‑SH‑02 (NRCS 612 Tree and Shrub establishment)
• Tabled Buffer Law discussion
• Approved upcoming meeting schedule

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board met on May 6, 2025 and approved the agenda and the April 15 minutes. It authorized the posting of an on‑call part‑time jailer position, payment of audited bills, a health exempt gambling permit, a fire‑department liquor license, the sale of a 2012 Dodge Caravan, and an extension of a 32‑hour work‑week trial. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 15 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved posting of one On‑Call Part‑Time Jailer position (unanimous)
• Approved payment of audited bills totaling $11,762.53 (General Fund) and other fund amounts (unanimous)
• Approved Madelia Health Exempt Gambling Permit (unanimous)
• Approved St. James Fire Department liquor license (unanimous)
• Approved sale of a 2012 Dodge Caravan on MinnBid (unanimous)
• Approved extension of Laura Quiring’s 32‑hour work‑week trial for six months (unanimous)

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Human Services Board approved the March 19 minutes and the meeting agenda, both unanimously. It also approved the regular monthly financial claims and credit‑card payments. A unanimous vote authorized the Minnesota Encounter Alert Services (EAS) Agreement with Collective Medical Technologies, Inc., allowing Director Pluym to sign. The board approved the lateral transfer of Brett Beckius to a Child Protection Specialist role.

• Approved March 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved regular monthly financial claims and credit‑card payments (unanimous)
• Approved Minnesota Encounter Alert Services Agreement with Collective Medical Technologies, Inc.; authorized Director Pluym to sign (unanimous)
• Approved lateral transfer of Brett Beckius from Licensor to Child Protection Specialist (unanimous)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board approved a contract with Ti‑Zack Concrete to repair a section of CSAH 56. It also authorized $25,000 for St. James HRA/Park Apartments renovations and purchased a jail Guardian System. Additional actions included payment of March bills and approval of several permits and a vehicle sale.

• Approved agenda amendment (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 1 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved $25,000 loan support for St. James HRA/Park Apartments (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Guardian System for jail ($4,453 purchase, $3,995 annual maintenance) (unanimous, pending Julie Kelley approval)
• Approved payment of March bills: General Fund $89,794.27; Solid Waste Fund $8,574.16; Road and Bridge Fund $1,103.63; Soil & Water Conservation $2,623.30; Building/Equipment Fund $114,648.00; Ditch Fund $5,242.30; Agency Fund $880.00; Road and Bridge Commissioner Bills $405,760.55; hotel reimbursement $490.60 (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Ti‑Zack Concrete, LLC ($173,137.51) for CSAH 56 repair (unanimous)
• Approved sale of 1986 Ford Flatbed on MinnBid (unanimous)
• Approved utility permit to repair drainage tile crossing in Odin Township (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District Agenda/Handouts & Minutes

The Watonwan Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved payment of $2,558.69 in bills and the supervisors' per‑diem. It also approved three NRCS contracts: a $9,000 cover‑crop contract (WBIF‑WW‑24‑83‑05), a $13,170 grassed‑waterway contract (23‑01), and a $7,360.55 tree/shrub establishment contract (25‑SH‑01). The schedule for upcoming board and GBERBA meetings was approved as presented.

• Approved payment of bills $2,558.69 (3‑0)
• Approved supervisors per diem (3‑0)
• Approved contract WBIF‑WW‑24‑83‑05 for NRCS 340 Cover Crops, $9,000 (3‑0)
• Approved contract 23‑01 for NRCS 412 Grassed Waterway, $13,170 (3‑0)
• Approved contract 25‑SH‑01 for NRCS 612 Tree/Shrub Establishment, $7,360.55 (3‑0)
• Approved upcoming board and GBERBA meeting schedule (3‑0)

County Board Agendas & Minutes

The Watonwan County Board approved a series of procurement contracts, equipment purchases, and the execution of the 2024 Emergency Management Performance Grant, all by unanimous vote. The board also adopted the JD 11 hearing findings with a 4‑1 vote. All motions were recorded as passed.

• Approved purchase of Mack Semi Tractor with Belly Dump ($204,907.68), Tandem Dump Truck ($343,046.16) and selected Chrysler Pacifica minivan ($39,502) – unanimous
• Approved sale of surplus moldboard extension to other local government units – unanimous
• Approved low‑bid contract with WW Blacktopping, Inc. for Human Services Parking Lot improvement (CP 83‑24‑01) – unanimous
• Approved drainage tile/county road crossing agreement for South Branch Township – unanimous
• Approved acceptance of Braun Intertec proposal for gravel pit exploration and material testing – unanimous
• Approved purchase of seal‑coat material from Flint Hills Resources (estimated $263,400) – unanimous
• Approved payment of audited bills and credit‑card charges across multiple funds – unanimous
• Approved execution of the 2024 Emergency Management Performance Grant – unanimous

Human Services Board Agendas & Minutes

The Human Services Board unanimously approved the $80,549.99 bid from St. James Electric to purchase a generator using federal Covid‑vaccine grant funds. It also approved a $10,000 mini‑grant to South Central Community Based Initiative, accepted several personnel actions, and adopted a resolution supporting Medicaid HCBS waiver funding.

• Approved $80,549.99 generator contract with St. James Electric (unanimous)
• Approved $10,000 mini‑grant to South Central Community Based Initiative (unanimous)
• Approved termination of Jonathon Peterson, County Agency Social Worker (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Morgan Schreiner, Eligibility Worker (unanimous)
• Approved probationary appointment of Haley Olson, County Agency Social Worker (unanimous)
• Approved staff attendance at Roadmap to Readiness and Response conference for Janessa Bakken and Juan De La Riva Carpio (unanimous)
• Approved staff attendance at Child Abuse Summit for Brenda Cervantes, Brett Beckius, Maria Thorson, and Paige Haugen (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution supporting Medicaid HCBS waiver services (unanimous)