Winona County public meetings in 2021

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board approved the 2022 budget and levy, with a total levy of $20,885,387 and a budget of $79,624,182 in expenditures, both passing 3-2. The board also approved amended guaranteed maximum price and AIA agreement for the jail project, and awarded a bid for detention equipment to Noah Detention Construction, both also 3-2. Additionally, the board approved a resolution to participate in multi-state opioid settlements and designated transportation sales tax projects.

• Adopted 2022 levy of $20,885,387 (3-2)
• Adopted 2022 budget with $79,624,182 expenditures (3-2)
• Approved amended guaranteed maximum price and AIA agreement for jail project (3-2)
• Awarded bid for detention equipment to Noah Detention Construction (3-2)
• Approved resolution to participate in multi-state opioid settlements (5-0)
• Approved resolution designating transportation sales tax projects (5-0)
• Approved concept plan for backup public safety answering point (5-0)
• Tabled letter of support for Winona Workforce Development Board until Jan 4, 2022 (5-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to consider a variance request from Bradley and Rochelle Schrandt and Lee Persons to allow a deck with a 48-foot setback from County Road 39, instead of the required 100 feet. The deck is intended to improve access to the home, including a wheelchair ramp. Staff recommends approval with conditions. The meeting also includes routine items such as approval of the agenda and minutes.

• Variance request for deck setback reduction from 100 ft to 48 ft from County Road 39 centerline
• Property located at SE ¼ of SE ¼, Section 05, St. Charles Township (Parcel # 13.000.0530)
• Staff recommends approval with conditions including obtaining a Development Certificate
• St. Charles Township Board had no comments on the request
• Public hearing notice published in Winona Daily News on December 5, 2021

The Winona County Board of Adjustment approved a variance allowing a deck with a 48-foot setback from County Road 39, instead of the required 100 feet, for a property owned by Bradley and Rochelle Schrandt (Schrandt Revocable Trust) and Lee Persons. The decision was unanimous and included conditions, such as obtaining a Development Certificate and complying with all regulations. The board found the variance consistent with the ordinance and comprehensive plan, citing practical difficulties due to the existing farmhouse layout.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved November 18, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved variance for deck setback of 48 ft. from County Road 39 centerline (unanimous)
• Adopted Findings of Fact as proposed with conditions (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is reviewing an Interim Use Permit request to allow a second dwelling on a 2.3-acre property in Saratoga Township. The proposal involves converting an existing building, formerly a bar and restaurant, into a residence for family members providing healthcare.

• Interim Use Permit for additional home at 10594 Troy Valley Road
• Conditional Use Permit request for a 1 MW utility scale solar project by Winona Garden LLC

The Winona County Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of two permits to the County Board: an interim use permit for a second home for family health care, and a conditional use permit for a 1 MW solar project. Both recommendations include conditions. The commission also approved its agenda and prior minutes, and discussed upcoming training.

• Recommended approval of IUP for additional health-care home (PC 12-16-21-01) (5-0)
• Recommended approval of CUP for 1 MW solar project (PC 12-16-21-02) (5-0)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved November 18, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Set January 20, 2022 meeting start time to 6:00 PM

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board will consider approving the 2021 audit contract with Michael Peterson LTD for $2,600, a $100 increase from the previous audit. They will also vote on payments for cover crop incentives under the Drinking Water Protection Grant, which provides up to $94,500 for landowners in high-priority areas. The board will receive updates on the Nitrogen Fertilizer Management Plan Agreement, including a presentation from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, and discuss the relocation of their office space.

• Approve 2021 Auditor Contract with Michael Peterson LTD for $2,600
• Approve cover crop incentive payments ($30/acre up to 30 acres, $45/acre in DWSMAs)
• Nitrogen Fertilizer Management Plan Agreement update and MDA presentation
• Whitewater Drinking Water Protection Grant update on cover crop payments
• Discussion on moving Whitewater JPB office space and computer disposition

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board approved the 2021 audit proposal from Peterson Company, cover crop payments, and consent items including amended bills. They also discussed the Nitrogen Fertilizer Management Plan with MDA staff and decided to offer a 2-year-old computer to SWCDs at 50% of original cost.

• Approved minutes of October 21, 2021 meeting (all yes)
• Approved agenda (all yes)
• Approved consent items including amended bill payable for 319 grant (all yes)
• Accepted 2021 Audit Proposal from Peterson Company (all yes)
• Approved cover crop payments (all yes)
• Decided to offer 2-year-old computer to SWCDs at 50% of original cost

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

The committee will review updates on jail operations, COVID-19 response, and mental health service access. The session includes a presentation on Intensive Treatment in Foster Care services and discussions regarding juvenile justice prevention models.

• Presentation: Intensive Treatment in Foster Care (ITFC) Services
• Update on recommendations for accessing Winona County Mental Health Services
• Drafting of Juvenile Justice Prevention Services/Early Interventions Model
• Winona County COVID-19 Response Update
• Jail Updates

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the November 9, 2021 meeting. Members heard a presentation on Intensive Treatment in Foster Care services and received updates on jail programming and COVID-19 response. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the minutes; a draft document on juvenile justice was discussed for a future vote.

• Approved minutes from November 9, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board is meeting to consider a range of administrative, financial, and planning items. Key actions include public hearings on the 2022 budget, fee schedule, and transportation sales tax projects, as well as authorizing the sale of jail bonds. The board will also discuss and potentially approve several grants, agreements, and appointments.

• Public hearing on 2022 budget, fee schedule, and transportation sales tax projects
• Authorize sale of $6,925,000 General Obligation County Jail Bonds, Series 2022A
• Authorize sale of $10,000,000 General Obligation County Jail Bonds, Series 2021A
• Approve interim use permit for auto-repair business (Evenson)
• Approve resolution requesting MnDOT to resurface Hwy 74 north of Elba

The Winona County Board approved multiple items including the sale of jail bonds, 2022-2024 labor agreements for department heads and WCHSEA, and resolutions for elected officials' 2022 compensation. They also tabled the WinLac project agreement and citizen advisory committee appointments until January 2022. The board appointed Maureen Holte as Interim County Administrator and approved a resolution requesting MnDOT to resurface Hwy 74 north of Elba.

• Approved sale of $6,925,000 GO Jail Bonds Series 2022A (3-2)
• Approved sale of $10,000,000 GO Jail Bonds Series 2021A (3-2)
• Approved 2022-2024 Department Head Association Agreement (4-1)
• Approved 2022-2024 WCHSEA Labor Agreement (4-1)
• Approved Elected Officials 2022 Compensation with Recorder at $109,609 (4-1)
• Approved Elected Officials 2022 Compensation with Sheriff at $153,652 (5-0)
• Appointed Maureen Holte as Interim County Administrator (5-0)
• Approved Resolution requesting MnDOT to resurface Hwy 74 north of Elba (5-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment will reconsider a variance request from Daley Farms of Lewiston, LLP to expand its feedlot to 3,901 dairy cows and 525 heifers (5,967.7 animal units), exceeding the 1,500-animal unit limit. This is a reconsideration of a petition first heard on February 21, 2019; no new public hearing or comments will be taken. The board will base its decision on the previous record, which is available online.

• Variance to expand feedlot to 5,967.7 animal units from 1,500-unit limit (WCZO 8.4.2, 10.4.6)
• Expansion includes 3,000 new dairy cows at new site LLP8 on parcel 15.000.1320
• Two new wells proposed, total pumping capacity 92 million gallons annually
• Manure management plan requires 4,083 acres; 4,179 acres identified
• MPCA completed EAW, no EIS required (January 4, 2019)

The Board of Adjustment denied Daley Farms of Lewiston's variance request to expand its feedlot to 5,967.7 animal units, exceeding the 1,500-animal unit limit. The denial resulted from a 2-2 tie vote on the motion to approve, which, per Minnesota Statute, constitutes a denial. The board amended several findings of fact in favor of the petitioner, but the final vote failed.

• Denied the variance request for Daley Farms to expand to 5,967.7 animal units (motion to approve failed 2-2).
• Amended Finding of Fact #1 to state the request is 'in harmony with' the ordinance (3-1).
• Amended Finding of Fact #3 to state the applicant 'has established' practical difficulties (3-1).
• Amended Finding of Fact #4 to state the request 'is' due to special conditions (3-1 after re-vote).
• Approved Finding of Fact #5 as written (4-0).
• Failed to amend Finding of Fact #6 to remove 'economic considerations are the only claimed practical difficulties' (2-2).
• Amended Finding of Fact #7 to state the variance 'cannot be alleviated' by a reasonable method (3-1).
• Approved Finding of Fact #8 as written (3-1).

Emergency Coordinating Committee

The Winona County Emergency Coordinating Committee is meeting virtually to discuss routine operational updates, including emergency management training and radio system changes, as well as a COVID-19 update from Public Health. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Roster update for paging backup
• Tabletop drill scheduled for December
• Accident training
• 800 MHz radio updates and training
• Public Health COVID-19 update

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will meet to discuss the special benefit tax levy resolution and the 2022 budget. The meeting also includes a closed session to receive updates on multi-state opioid litigation settlement discussions.

• Closed session discussion regarding Multi-State Opioid Litigation
• Discussion/approval of Special Benefit Tax Levy Resolution and 2022 Budget
• Proposal for Braun Intertec for Jail Environmental Consulting
• Winona Health Services contract for Mental Illness Involuntary Hold Services
• Renewal of purchase contract with Driftless Region Vector Control LLC for mosquito abatement

The Winona County Board voted 3-2 to extend the COVID-19 State of Local Emergency indefinitely, superseding a prior extension to February 2022. The board also approved the 2022 budget and a $100,000 special benefit tax levy for the Southeastern Minnesota Multi-County Housing and Redevelopment Authority. Funding requests for the Advocacy Center of Winona ($15,760) and Big Brothers Big Sisters ($30,000) were approved and denied respectively, with split votes. A motion to abandon a potential public health emergency ordinance failed, and the ordinance was tabled.

• Approved extending the COVID-19 State of Local Emergency (Resolution #2021-059) by a 3-2 vote.
• Approved the 2022 County Board meeting schedule, jail environmental consulting, and gambling permits for two clubs.
• Approved the final special benefit tax levy of $100,000 for the Southeastern Minnesota Multi-County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (Resolution #2021-057).
• Approved the Advocacy Center of Winona funding request of $15,760 by a 3-2 vote.
• Denied the Big Brothers Big Sisters funding request of $30,000 by a 2-3 vote.
• Appointed Meg Krinke, Emily Solheid, and Jeremy Beck to the Personnel Board of Appeals (Resolution #2021-058).
• Tabled the Potential Public Health Emergency Ordinance by a 3-2 vote after a motion to abandon it failed.
• Approved a future agenda item to discuss a nuisance ordinance at the December 14, 2021 meeting.

Planning Commission

The Commission will consider an Interim Use Permit request from Jeffery and Amanda Evenson to operate an auto repair business on a 0.08-acre parcel. The proposal involves using an existing machine shed for small business operations with no new structures planned.

• Interim Use Permit request for an auto repair business (Docket # PC 1/18-21-01)
• Rezoning request for an 8-acre parcel from General Industry to Agriculture-Resource Conservation (Docket # PC 11-18-21-02)
• Land use map amendment request for an 8-acre parcel from Rural Residential Service to Agriculture-Natural Resource (Docket # PC 11-18-21-02)

The Winona County Planning Commission recommended approval of an Interim Use Permit for Jeffery and Amanda Evenson to operate an auto repair business, with amended findings of fact and conditions. The commission also recommended approval of Jared Biggerstaff's request to reclassify and rezone an eight-acre parcel to agricultural designations. Both recommendations will go to the County Board for final action.

• Approved agenda and minutes of October 21, 2021, unanimously.
• Recommended approval of Interim Use Permit for Evenson auto repair business, with amended termination event (sale of business or property, except to family) and conditions.
• Recommended approval of Biggerstaff's request to reclassify parcel from Rural Residential Service to Agricultural/Natural Resource and rezone from General Industry to Agriculture/Resource Conservation.
• Noted Board of Adjustment granted variances for Brian Larsen and Gary Kosen for shed setbacks.
• Noted County Board approved the Bolstad CUP.

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to consider a variance request from Brian Larsen and Gary Kosen to build a 60x40-foot shed on their property near Ridgeway. The shed would be placed closer to County Road 12 and Interstate 90 than normally allowed, with setbacks of 110 feet and 105 feet instead of the required 130 and 200 feet. Staff recommends approval with conditions, citing the parcel's unique shape between the two roads. The board will also approve minutes from the September 16 meeting.

• Variance request for shed setbacks: 110 ft from County Road 12 (required 130 ft) and 105 ft from I-90 (required 200 ft)
• Proposed shed: 60 ft x 40 ft, for personal storage
• Property: Parcel #10.000.0730, Pleasant Hill Township, near Ridgeway
• Dresbach Township Board: no comments on the request
• Public hearing notice published in Winona Daily News on Nov 7

The Winona County Board of Adjustment approved a variance for Brian Larsen and Gary Kosen to build a shed with reduced setbacks: 110 feet from County Road 12 (instead of 130) and 105 feet from Interstate 90 (instead of 200). The board adopted the findings of fact and conditions as presented. The meeting was otherwise routine, including approval of the agenda and prior minutes.

• Approved the agenda as presented.
• Approved the September 16, 2021 minutes.
• Opened and closed the public hearing for the variance petition.
• Adopted the Findings of Fact and approved the variance with conditions for the shed.
• Adjourned the meeting at 1:50 p.m.

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes, elect a co-chair, and receive updates on the county jail, mental health services access, juvenile justice collaboration, and COVID-19 response. The agenda includes a report on recommendations for improving access to mental health services and continued discussion on juvenile justice efforts.

• Approve minutes from September 14, 2021 meeting
• Elect a co-chair for the committee
• Jail updates
• Sim Reporting: recommendations for improved ease in accessing Winona County mental health services
• Winona County COVID-19 response update

The Winona County Health & Human Services Advisory Committee approved the September 14, 2021 minutes and appointed Andy Kranz as co-chair. Updates were provided on jail programming, including a soil contamination issue delaying the jail project and the hiring of a new jail social worker. The committee discussed plans for SIM reporting and juvenile justice prevention efforts, but no formal decisions were made on these items.

• Approved minutes from September 14, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Appointed Andy Kranz as Committee Co-Chair (unanimous)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board is meeting to handle routine consent items and several significant general business items, including a resolution requesting state approval for a local option sales tax referendum and a discussion on a jail bond presale resolution. The board will also receive updates on the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation and the September 2021 finance and budget.

• Approve Conditional Use Permit for Beth Bolstad to allow dwelling on less than 40 acres
• Approve software acquisition with Next Chapter Technologies for electronic data management system
• Approve 2022 Toward Zero Deaths Enforcement Grant Agreement
• Review/adopt resolution requesting state approval of local option sales tax referendum
• Discuss/approve jail bond presale resolution and program

The Winona County Board approved resolutions to sell $10 million (Series 2021A) and $6.925 million (Series 2022A) in jail bonds, both with credit enhancement from the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority, and adopted a resolution requesting state approval for a 0.25% local option sales tax to fund the jail replacement project. The board also approved a consent agenda including a conditional use permit, a premises permit for Country Climbers Snowmobile Club, and various fund transfers and agreements.

• Adopted resolution requesting state approval for 0.25% local option sales tax for jail (5-0)
• Approved $10,000,000 GO Jail Bonds Series 2021A sale with credit enhancement (3-2)
• Approved $6,925,000 GO Jail Bonds Series 2022A sale with credit enhancement (3-2)
• Approved consent agenda including CUP for Beth Bolstad, premises permit, and fund transfers (5-0)
• Approved wireless survey with Marco Technologies (5-0)
• Approved amended agenda moving consent item to general business (5-0)
• Approved county board minutes from October 26, 2021 (5-0)
• Confirmed disbursements totaling $9,237,233.01 (5-0)

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

The WinLaC One Watershed, One Plan joint policy and advisory committee is meeting to prioritize 34 watershed issues and opportunities for a ten-year plan. Attendees will use a worksheet to assign each issue a priority tier (A, B, or C) based on feasibility, urgency, economic importance, funding leverage, and ecosystem/cultural value. The meeting also reviews results from a 28-response public survey on resident concerns. This is a working session to narrow the list for implementation, not a final decision-making meeting.

• Prioritization of 34 issues including nitrates in drinking water, karst groundwater contamination, stream sediment, and invasive species
• Public survey results: 28 responses, top concerns include protecting drinking water, stream habitat, and erosion
• Issue categories: groundwater, surface water, habitat/recreation, and land use
• Priorities assigned as A (11), B (11), C (12) for the ten-year plan
• Meeting held in person at Winona City Hall with Zoom option

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

The WinLaC One Watershed One Plan Policy Committee is meeting to approve the agenda, minutes, budget updates, and invoice payments, and to discuss outreach efforts and next steps for prioritizing watershed issues. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major new decisions expected.

• Approve budget update and invoice payments
• Update on outreach efforts: We Are Water and Waterside Chats
• Discuss prioritization of issues and December meeting scheduling
• Review and approve minutes of October 11, 2021 meeting

The WinLaC Partnership Policy Committee approved two invoices totaling $12,140.16 for Houston Engineering and Winona County administrative management. The committee also voted to skip the December 13, 2021 meeting due to a conflict with the MASWCD annual meeting. Outreach updates were received regarding the We Are Water exhibit and Waterside Chats, but no other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 11, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved invoice payments totaling $12,140.16 (motion by Walkes, second by Zabel)
• Skipped December 13, 2021 meeting (motion by Walter, second by Zabel)

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The Parks & Environment Advisory Committee will discuss survey information for allocating American Recovery Act funds toward outdoor and park projects. The meeting also includes updates on maintenance, trail funding, and equipment at Stone Point, Apple Blossom, and Farmers Parks.

• Review of survey information for American Recovery Act fund priorities
• Proposed trail funding opportunity and invasive species work at Stone Point Park
• Proposed paving for the Apple Blossom Park parking area (estimated at $35,000)
• Proposed play equipment updates at Farmers Park
• Discussion of upcoming 2022 fee schedule increases for park bookings

The committee approved a motion to clear some trees and create prairie grass at Stone Point Park, with the goal of eventually adding a trail. They also discussed using American Recovery Act funds for park improvements, including shade structures, play equipment, and fairground upgrades, based on a community survey. No other formal decisions were made; other items were discussions only.

• Approved clearing trees and creating prairie grass at Stone Point Park (all yes)
• Approved agenda (all yes)
• Approved minutes of August 3, 2021 meeting (all yes)

Economic Development Authority Board

The Winona County Economic Development Authority will review its revolving loan fund checklist and requirements, discuss the CEDA budget, and hear an update on the Great River Rail Commission. The board will also approve financial reports for April–September 2021 and receive a current loan status update.

• Review of Revolving Loan Fund checklist and requirements/restrictions
• Discussion of CEDA (Community and Economic Development Associates) and budget
• Great River Rail Commission discussion led by M. Kennedy
• Approval of financial reports for April–June and July–September 2021
• Loan status update by Kay Qualley

The Winona County Economic Development Authority approved the April-September 2021 financial reports and the 2022 CEDA contract for 8 hours every other week. They discussed lowering the Revolving Loan Fund floor interest rate from 3% to 2% and agreed to revisit it at the next meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved April-September 2021 financial reports (all yes)
• Approved 2022 CEDA contract at 8 hours every other week (all yes)
• Agreed to discuss lowering Revolving Loan Fund floor rate from 3% to 2% at next meeting

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold a working session to discuss the 2022 draft budget for outside agencies, then convene a regular meeting to consider consent items and general business. Key actions include approving an amended guaranteed maximum price for the jail project, a new AFSCME 65 labor agreement for 2022-2024, and a coronavirus fiscal recovery framework. The board will also review the county administrator profile and appoint a citizen advisory committee volunteer.

• Discuss 2022 draft budget for outside agencies
• Approve amended guaranteed maximum price and AIA agreement for jail project
• Approve AFSCME 65 labor agreement 2022-2024
• Approve Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Framework
• Approve renewal of Crime Victim Services 2021-2023 grant

The Winona County Board approved an amended guaranteed maximum price and AIA agreement for the jail project (3-2), and approved the AFSCME 65 labor agreement for 2022-2024 (4-1). They also approved a salary range adjustment for the County Administrator position to $130,000-$160,000, and approved the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Framework without the team concept. A citizen advisory committee volunteer appointment was tabled to be considered as part of the 2022 posting.

• Approved amended guaranteed maximum price and AIA agreement for jail project (3-2)
• Approved AFSCME 65 labor agreement 2022-2024 (4-1)
• Approved County Administrator salary range adjustment to $130,000-$160,000 (5-0)
• Tabled citizen advisory committee volunteer appointment (5-0)
• Approved Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Framework without team concept (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including grant software agreement, bid rejection for detention equipment, and multiple grant resolutions (5-0)
• Approved donations totaling $11,733.22 for Sheriff, Police Dog, and Restorative Justice (5-0)
• Confirmed disbursements totaling $3,798,836.87 (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will consider a request by Beth Bolstad for three conditional use permits to build a house and garage on a 20.89-acre parcel in the Agricultural/Resource Conservation District and Shoreland Overlay District. The permits are needed because the parcel is less than 40 acres, the site is in a shoreland area, and the slope is between 18% and 25%. The commission will also vote on a petition withdrawal from Mathy Construction and David & Michelle McCorquodale. The meeting is procedural and includes approval of minutes and updates.

• Conditional use permit for dwelling on 20.89 acres (less than 40) in A/RC District
• Conditional use permit for dwelling in Shoreland Natural Feature Overlay District
• Conditional use permit for development on 20-22% slope (between 18% and 25%)
• Withdrawal of petition PC 09-16-21-01 by Mathy Construction and McCorquodale
• No October 2021 Board of Adjustment meeting

The Winona County Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of a conditional use permit (CUP) for Beth Bolstad to place a dwelling on a 21-acre parcel in the Agricultural/Resource Conservation District and Shoreland Natural Feature Overlay District. The recommendation includes conditions on erosion control, septic, and buffer plantings. The commission also scheduled a working session to examine prime soil classifications and potential ordinance amendments.

• Recommended approval of CUP for dwelling on 21+ acres in A/RC District (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of CUP for dwelling in Shoreland Natural Feature Overlay District (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of CUP for structures on 20-22% slopes (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 16, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Took petition PC 09-16-21-01 off the table (unanimous)
• Scheduled working session on type 3 soils and ordinance amendment (unanimous)

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board will consider approving a Nitrogen Fertilizer Management Plan Agreement with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture to support local advisory teams in the Altura, Elgin, and Utica drinking water supply management areas. The board will also review a financial update, the 2020 draft audit, and updates on the Whitewater 319 Nonpoint Source Reduction grant and the Surface Water Assessment Grant. Consent items include payments totaling $13,766.33 for various grants and operations.

• Approve Nitrogen Fertilizer Management Plan Agreement with MDA for Altura, Elgin, Utica DWSMAs
• 2020 Draft Audit by Peterson Company
• Whitewater 319 Nonpoint Source Reduction grant update and expenditure of funds
• Surface Water Assessment Grant update
• Consent items include payments to County of Winona ($5,107.86), Wabasha County SWCD ($1,802.39), Root River SWCD ($2,539.13)

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board approved the Nitrogen Fertilizer Management Plan grant agreement with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, but only after amending the work plan to remove references to the Groundwater Protection Rule and enforcement-related language. The board also accepted the 2020 draft audit and approved routine items. No public comments were made, and no members were absent.

• Approved minutes of August 19, 2021 meeting (all in favor)
• Approved agenda (all in favor)
• Approved consent items (all in favor)
• Accepted 2020 draft audit from Petersen Company (all in favor)
• Approved Nitrogen Fertilizer Management Plan grant agreement as amended (all in favor)
• Amended work plan to remove Groundwater Protection Rule references and enforcement language (all in favor)
• Changed next meeting date to December 15, 2021 at 8:30 AM
• Adjourned at 10:30 AM (all in favor)

Road & Bridge Committee

The Winona County Road & Bridge Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on a proposed 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Program for roads and bridges. The agenda also includes several specific items, such as a possible resolution regarding Hwy 74, a citizen concern about driveway safety on Hwy 14, and a policy for maintaining culverts. Updates on maintenance and construction projects are also scheduled.

• Proposed 2022-2026 Road & Bridge Capital Improvement Program
• Possible county resolution to request re-improvement of Hwy 74 after Otta seal removal by MnDOT
• Driveway safety concern on Hwy 14 west of Stockton from citizen letter
• Policy discussion on who maintains town road approach culverts in County Road right-of-way
• Old business: CSAH 16 'Rose Valley' request to pave 2.7-mile gravel segment; CSAH 30 right-of-way acquisition for 2022 grading; CSAH 17 crosswalk request; CSAH 37 'Fabian Corner' possible reconstruction

The Winona County Road & Bridge Committee approved forwarding the 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to the county board for approval. The committee also unanimously recommended that the county board adopt a resolution supporting MnDOT paving or Otta sealing a segment of State Highway 74 between Elba and CR 30, which was downgraded to gravel. No other formal decisions were made; other items were discussed or referred to MnDOT or the City of Winona.

• Approved forwarding 2022-2026 Road & Bridge CIP to county board (unanimous)
• Recommended county board adopt resolution supporting MnDOT paving or Otta sealing Highway 74 segment (unanimous)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board is meeting to consider a range of consent items, including conditional use permits for single-family dwellings on less than forty acres, a broadband expansion agreement, and a DUI enforcement grant. They will also discuss directing the County Attorney to prepare a resolution requesting state approval for a local option sales tax referendum, and receive reports on the medical examiner's office and highway department. A closed session is scheduled to discuss litigation strategy for detention equipment contracts.

• Approve Conditional Use Permits for Joann Groth and Dylan & Christine Antoff, and for William & Carol Ebert and Micah & Tracy Fedke, for single-family dwellings on less than forty acres
• Approve HBC American Rescue Act Broadband Expansion Professional Services Agreement
• Approve renewal of contract for treatment facility transportation for Winona Health
• Approve State of Minnesota grant to fund Driving Under the Influence Enforcement Deputy
• Discuss/Consider directing County Attorney to prepare resolution requesting state approval of local option sales tax referendum

The Winona County Board approved the consent agenda, which included conditional use permits for two single-family dwellings on less than forty acres, a broadband expansion professional services agreement, and a grant for a DUI enforcement deputy. The board also directed the county attorney to prepare a resolution requesting state approval of a local option sales tax referendum as an option for discussion. A citizen advisory committee appointment was tabled until the October 26, 2021 meeting.

• Approved consent agenda including conditional use permits, broadband agreement, and DUI grant (5-0)
• Directed county attorney to prepare resolution for local option sales tax referendum (5-0)
• Tabled citizen advisory committee appointment until October 26, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved minutes from September 28, 2021 (5-0)
• Acknowledged Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment minutes (5-0)
• Approved $889,703.38 in disbursements (5-0)
• Recessed to closed session to discuss litigation strategy on detention equipment contracts (5-0)

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

The WinLaC One Watershed One Plan Policy Committee will meet to approve contingency funds for PTMapp modeling, a mission/vision statement, the Land and Water Resources Narrative, and an issues table. They will also hear a presentation on connecting forests and water quality and review outreach efforts from a recent public kickoff event.

• Approve allocation of contingency funds for PTMapp modeling
• Approve mission/vision statement for the WinLaC planning area
• Approve Land and Water Resources Narrative for the plan
• Approve issues table contingent on Advisory Committee input
• Review budget update and invoice payments

The WinLaC Policy Committee unanimously approved the final mission and vision statements, the Land and Water Resources Narrative for the plan, and the issues table. They also approved a contract amendment to use $10,980 in contingency funds for PTMapp modeling, and approved invoices and the agenda and minutes.

• Approved agenda and August 9, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved invoice payments for Houston Engineering, Root River SWCD, and Tau Center (unanimous)
• Approved contract amendment to use $10,980 contingency for PTMapp modeling (unanimous)
• Approved final mission and vision statements (unanimous)
• Approved Land and Water Resources Narrative for inclusion in the Plan (unanimous)
• Accepted issues table as foundation for the Plan (unanimous)

Land Records Committee

The Winona County Land Records Committee will meet to approve minutes, discuss maintenance of forfeited properties with Habitat for Humanity, elect a new chair for 2022, and review the Pictometry agreement. They will also receive updates and consider future agenda items, including Whitewater Cemetery land issues.

• Elect new chair for 2022 Land Records Committee
• Review and discuss Pictometry Agreement
• Discuss maintenance of forfeited properties with Habitat for Humanity
• Whitewater Cemetery land issues for future meeting

The Winona County Land Records Committee voted unanimously to recommend a new Pictometry Agreement to the County Board for approval. The agreement is about $12,000 less than the previous one and includes two flyovers (2022 and 2025) plus 21 additional square foot miles of imagery. The committee also discussed a potential partnership with Habitat for Humanity to address forfeited properties, but no formal action was taken.

• Approved agenda (all yes)
• Approved August 6, 2021 minutes (all yes)
• Recommended Pictometry Agreement to County Board (all yes)
• Deferred election of new chair until 2022

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold a closed session on Daley Farms litigation, a working session on chronic wasting disease and deer harvesting, and a regular meeting. The regular meeting includes setting the preliminary levy, approving several contracts and agreements, and receiving a citizen review panel report.

• Closed session to discuss Daley Farms vs. Winona County litigation
• Working session on Chronic Wasting Disease and deer harvesting
• Approve David Drown Associates executive search contract for County Administrator
• Approve HBC Broadband Rural Extension Plan using American Rescue Funds
• Approve resolution setting preliminary levy

The board approved a preliminary 2022 levy of $24,070,136 (gross) on a 3-2 vote, with Commissioners Jacob and Ward dissenting. It also approved several labor agreements and wage grids, a broadband expansion plan using federal funds, and a contract for a county administrator search. All other consent items were approved unanimously.

• Approved preliminary 2022 levy of $24,070,136 (3-2, Jacob and Ward no)
• Approved HBC Broadband Rural Extension Plan using American Rescue Funds (5-0)
• Approved Non-Union Wage Grids 2021-2022 (4-1, Ward no)
• Approved Local 49 Labor Agreement for 2022-2024 (4-1, Ward no)
• Approved AFSCME Courthouse Unit Amendment 2021-2022 (4-1, Ward no)
• Approved David Drown Associates Executive Search Contract for County Administrator (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2021-045 accepting Minnesota Housing Finance Agency Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program (5-0)
• Approved SeeClickFix contract (5-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on two variance petitions. One seeks to allow a 60-foot lot width instead of the required 100 feet for a new homestead on Harbor Drive. The other requests a variance to place a dwelling on Class II soil instead of the required Class IV-VIII soil types. The board will also approve the agenda and minutes from the July 15, 2021 meeting.

• Variance for 60-ft lot width on Harbor Drive (Rollingstone Township) instead of required 100 ft
• Variance for dwelling on Class II soil instead of required Class IV-VIII soil types
• Approval of July 15, 2021 meeting minutes
• Public hearing for both variance petitions

The Winona County Board of Adjustment approved two variance requests. The first allowed a 60-foot lot width instead of the required 100 feet for a residential parcel in Rollingstone Township. The second allowed a dwelling on Class II soil instead of the required Class IV-VIII soils in Homer Township. Both approvals were unanimous and subject to conditions.

• Approved variance for 60-foot lot width (BOA 09-16-21-01) — unanimous
• Approved variance for Class II soil dwelling site (BOA 09-16-21-02) — unanimous
• Approved agenda — unanimous
• Approved July 15, 2021 minutes — unanimous

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will consider two Interim Use/Conditional Use Permit requests for new dwellings on parcels smaller than 40 acres in the Agricultural/Resource Conservation District. One petition (Joann Groth) was amended to include neighbor comments, and another (Mathy Construction) was tabled for 60 days. The commission will also review minutes from the July 15 meeting and receive updates from liaisons.

• Docket PC 09-16-21-02: Joann Groth seeks a permit for a new dwelling on 7 acres under Chapter 10.4.6(36)
• Docket PC 09-16-21-03: William & Carol Ebert and Micah & Tracy Fedke seek a permit for a new dwelling on 20 acres under Chapter 10.4.6(36)
• Docket PC 09-16-21-01: Mathy Construction petition tabled for 60 days at petitioner request
• Approval of minutes from July 15, 2021 meeting
• Updates from Board of Adjustment and County Board

The Winona County Planning Commission recommended approval of two Conditional Use Permits (CUPs) to the County Board, allowing new dwellings on parcels smaller than 40 acres. The first petition (PC 09-16-21-02) for Joann Groth (Dylan & Christine Antoff) was approved with conditions, and the second (PC 09-16-21-03) for William & Carol Ebert and Micah & Tracy Fedke was also approved with conditions. A third petition (PC 09-16-21-01) for Mathy Construction was tabled for 60 days at the petitioner's request. All votes were unanimous.

• Recommended approval of CUP for Groth/Antoff new dwelling on 7 acres (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of CUP for Ebert/Fedke new dwelling on 20 acres (unanimous)
• Tabled Mathy Construction petition for 60 days (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and July 15, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Quarterly Emergency Management Meeting

This is the quarterly meeting of Winona County's emergency management group. The agenda covers updates on public health COVID efforts, EMS, and training for accident response and radio use, plus department updates and open discussion. No votes or formal decisions are listed; it is primarily an informational and coordination session.

• Compassionate COVID Vaccine Campaign update
• EMS in Winona County update
• Accident response training with WCSO/Emergency Management
• Radio training
• ID cards

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss several items, including jail updates, juvenile justice supervision costs, and a county board directive to reduce juvenile incarceration. They will also review research on trauma's effects on children and receive a COVID-19 response update. The meeting includes routine approval of minutes and setting the next meeting date.

• Jail updates and follow-ups, including SIM Report study and construction plans
• Juvenile justice supervision cost analysis
• County board direction to collaborate on programming to reduce juvenile incarceration
• Research on trauma's effects on children's well-being and out-of-home placements
• COVID-19 response update

The Health & Human Services Advisory Committee met virtually and approved the August 3, 2021 meeting minutes. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted of updates and discussion items. Members reviewed a draft plan to improve access to county mental health services, discussed juvenile justice prevention mapping, and received updates on the new jail project, COVID-19 cases, and the Alternative Response Team.

• Approved minutes from August 3, 2021 meeting (all in favor)
• Reviewed draft plan for improving mental health service access; to be considered at October 2021 meeting
• Discussed juvenile justice prevention mapping; committee input due by 10/1/2021
• Noted County Board approved Market and Johnson bid for new jail construction (~$28 million)
• Received COVID-19 update: surge in cases, ~60% of residents vaccinated
• Noted ART first FTE mental health worker hired and in training

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will consider routine consent items including contracts for software, services, and COVID-19 vaccine campaigns, then discuss the 2022 draft budget, a possible dog breeding ordinance, and next steps for hiring a county administrator. The meeting includes public comment and approval of prior minutes.

• Approve renewal of contract with Ultimate Kronos Group and new Pro Learning Module
• Approve statement of work with CivicClerk for agenda management system
• Approve contract with Ethan Waytas (Assessor)
• Approve amended contracts for COVID-19 vaccine campaign
• Discuss dog breeding ordinance and 2022 draft budget

The Winona County Board approved a parking study proposal with Walker Consultants (3-1) and hired David Drown Associates as the executive search firm for a new county administrator (5-0). The board also approved consent items including contracts, disbursements totaling $2,587,365.66, and a transit vehicle agreement for a commissioner road tour. Discussion on the dog breeding ordinance led to direction for staff to require license copies from applicants.

• Approved parking study proposal with Walker Consultants (3-1)
• Hired David Drown Associates as executive search firm (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including contracts and disbursements totaling $2,587,365.66 (4-0)
• Approved agreement for future use of Winona Transit vehicle for road tour (4-0)
• Added future agenda item to discuss Highway 74 surface improvement (5-0)
• Directed staff to require dog breeding license copies from applicants
• Approved minutes from August 24 and August 31, 2021 (4-0)
• Approved amended agenda moving consent items to general business (4-0)

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

The WinLaC 1W1P Policy Committee will meet to approve the budget update and invoice payment, review and approve a draft logo, discuss public kickoff outreach, and review the Land and Water Resources Narrative for the September 20 public meeting. They will also discuss and approve a draft mission statement and provide input on watershed issues. The meeting includes a presentation on watershed stream restoration.

• Approve budget update and invoice payment of $3,360.50 to Houston Engineering
• Review and approve draft logo for WinLaC 1W1P
• Discuss public kickoff agenda and outreach efforts for September 20, 2021 at Tau Center
• Review and approve Land and Water Resources Narrative for public kickoff
• Discuss and approve draft mission statement for WinLaC planning area

The WinLaC 1W1P Policy Committee approved the agenda, prior minutes, a $3,360.50 HEI invoice, and a revised logo. They also approved the watershed primer packet and outreach plans for the September 20 public kickoff, and decided to refine mission/vision statements via survey rather than present them at the kickoff. No substantive policy decisions were made beyond these approvals.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved August 9, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $3,360.50 HEI invoice payment (unanimous)
• Approved revised logo (unanimous)
• Approved watershed primer packet for public kickoff (unanimous)
• Approved outreach plans for September 20 public kickoff (unanimous)
• Decided to refine mission/vision statements via survey, not present at kickoff (unanimous)

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The Winona County Parks & Environment Advisory Committee will meet to discuss updates on Stone Point, Apple Blossom, and Farmers Parks, including a $35,000 paving estimate for the Apple Blossom parking lot. They will also receive updates on recycling and household hazardous waste programs. The meeting includes approval of the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting.

• Apple Blossom Park paving estimate: $35,000 for 14,500 sq ft parking and handicap picnic table approach
• Stone Point Park update: signage, access, and website statement removal
• Farmers Park update: basketball court removal and seeding ($1,000), bathroom removal ($4,980)
• Recycling and Household Hazardous Waste update
• 2022 Fee Schedule: modest increase for park booking to cover cleaning and trash removal

Winona WorkForce Development Board

The Winona County Workforce Development Board is meeting virtually to hear reports from local agencies, discuss regional workforce programs, and consider updates on grants, board member recruitment, and executive committee elections. The agenda is largely informational, with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• P2P healthcare focused regional collaboration grant discussion
• Board member recruitment updates for Winona Chamber, Goodview EDA, Lewiston EDA, St. Charles Chamber & EDA
• Executive Committee election for 2021-22
• Financial report out
• Labor market updates

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board of Commissioners will meet to review and potentially approve a Guaranteed Maximum Price proposal from Market and Johnson for the Winona County Jail project. The meeting also includes a scheduled period for public comment.

• Review/Approve Guaranteed Maximum Price Proposal from Market and Johnson for Jail Project
• Total construction costs bid at $24,955,889 against a budget of $25,423,779
• Total construction and design costs bid at $26,844,147 against a budget of $27,346,427

The Winona County Board held a special session and approved a Guaranteed Maximum Price proposal from Market and Johnson along with the overall project budget for the jail project. The motion passed 3-2, with Commissioners Ward and Jacob voting against. No public comments were heard, and the meeting adjourned after the vote.

• Approved Guaranteed Maximum Price proposal from Market and Johnson for jail project (3-2)
• Approved overall project budget for jail project (3-2)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Adjourned special meeting (5-0)

Emergency Coordinating Committee

The committee will receive agency and department updates, including a COVID-19 update from Public Health. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding the extension of a declared emergency.

• Extending Declared Emergency
• Public Health COVID-19 Update

Winona County Board

The Board will consider extending the local COVID-19 emergency resolution and provide direction regarding the upcoming County Administrator vacancy. Other items include reviewing juvenile incarceration prevention strategies and discussing a potential dog breeding ordinance.

• Approval of Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Cooperative Agreement with State of Minnesota for Treatment Court
• Approval of MN Dept. of Health grant amendment for influenza vaccination coverage
• Approval of contracts with Lamar and Leighton Broadcasting for COVID-19 vaccine campaign
• Resolution to acquire right-of-way for CSAH 30
• Early order of snowplow truck in 2022 budget

The Winona County Board voted 3-2 to extend the COVID-19 State of Local Emergency indefinitely, superseding a prior November 30, 2021 end date, and also voted 3-2 to establish a county ordinance allowing the board to act quickly in future public health emergencies. The board tabled a separate mask ordinance motion (2-3), adopted revised findings for a denied interim use permit (3-2), and approved consent items including a right-of-way acquisition resolution for CSAH 30 and a $2.65 million disbursement confirmation.

• Extended COVID-19 State of Local Emergency indefinitely (3-2)
• Established ordinance for rapid public health emergency action (3-2)
• Tabled mask ordinance discussion (2-3)
• Adopted revised findings for Erickson Family Shady Maple Farms interim use permit denial (3-2)
• Approved resolution to acquire right-of-way for CSAH 30 (5-0)
• Approved $2,645,290.72 in disbursements (5-0)
• Approved monthly resolution for health and human services case actions (5-0)
• Approved future agenda item to discuss dog breeding ordinance (5-0)

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The Board is reviewing financial updates, including the 2020 audit and 319 Nonpoint Source Grant expenditures. Members are also discussing options for future office space rental and reviewing progress on water quality grants.

• Review of funds spent to date for the 319 Whitewater Non-point Source Grant
• Discussion regarding office rent options for the Whitewater Watershed Project
• Update on the FY 2022 Clean Water Fund proposal
• Approval of payments for anticipated invoices before September 15, 2021
• Review of the 2020 Audit management letter from Peterson Company, Ltd

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board approved moving the Director's physical location to be full-time at Winona County, effective January 1, 2022, with no additional rent charged. The board also approved the 2020 audit letter, anticipated 319 grant invoices capped at $8,066, and a cost share payment for Bednar contingent on Olmsted SWCD approval. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved minutes of June 17, 2021 and July 15, 2021 special meeting (all yes)
• Approved amended agenda including 8b(3) Bednar cost share payment (all yes)
• Approved consent items including payment checks #3126-3129 (all yes)
• Approved and signed 2020 audit letter from Petersen Company Ltd (all yes)
• Approved anticipated 319 grant invoices capped at $8,066 (all yes)
• Approved Bednar cost share payment contingent on Olmsted SWCD approval (all yes)
• Approved moving Director's physical location to full-time at Winona County, effective Jan 1, 2022 (all yes)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will meet on August 10, 2021, to consider consent items including an interim use permit for a dog kennel, a conditional use permit, a veterans service grant renewal, and a safe drinking water agreement addendum. General business includes a presentation on MnDOT's 10-year work plan, a possible parking consultant study, updates on COVID-19 and the recorder's department, and discussion on the upcoming county administrator vacancy. The meeting also includes recognition of a retiring IT employee.

• Interim Use Permit for Erickson Family Shady Maple Farms to allow a dog kennel facility
• Conditional Use Permit for Rosanne Naunheim
• Renewal of Veterans Service Office Operational Enhancement Grant Program Agreement
• Addendum to FY2021 Regional Safe Drinking Water for Private Well Users Sub-agreement
• Discussion and direction for upcoming County Administrator vacancy

The board denied an interim use permit for a dog kennel at Shady Maple Farms and denied the conditional use permit for Rosanne Naunheim as submitted, after rejecting a motion to approve it with changes. The board also approved a veterans service grant, a Lake Winona improvement grant proposal, and tabled discussion on the county administrator vacancy.

• Denied Interim Use Permit for Shady Maple Farms dog kennel (3-2)
• Denied Conditional Use Permit for Rosanne Naunheim as submitted (3-2)
• Rejected motion to approve Naunheim CUP with changes (2-3)
• Approved Veterans Service Office Operational Enhancement Grant (5-0)
• Approved Lake Winona Improvement Grant application (5-0)
• Approved future consideration of parking consultant study (4-1)
• Tabled county administrator vacancy discussion to Aug 24 (5-0)
• Added future agenda item on dog breeding ordinance (5-0)

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

The WinLaC 1W1P Policy Committee approved the agenda, prior minutes, a budget and invoice payment of $3,937.50 to Houston Engineering, and an updated Advisory Committee list including Josh Elsing. They also discussed logo options, planning process, and outreach for a public kickoff meeting scheduled for September 20 at the Tau Center. No substantive policy decisions were made beyond these approvals.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved June 14, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved budget and $3,937.50 invoice payment to Houston Engineering (unanimous)
• Approved Advisory Committee list with Josh Elsing added (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:40 AM

Land Records Committee

The Winona County Land Records Committee approved the 2022 Recorders Technology Funds Budget recommendation to the County Board, and approved the amended agenda and prior minutes. They also directed the County Recorder to proceed with a $1,400 survey for a problematic forfeited parcel in Dakota, and discussed maintenance of forfeited properties and a DNR-approved riverfront parcel in Richmond Township.

• Approved 2022 Recorders Technology Funds Budget recommendation (unanimous)
• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Approved December 4, 2020 minutes (unanimous)
• Directed County Recorder to proceed with $1,400 survey for Dakota parcel (unanimous)

Economic Development Authority Board

The Winona County Economic Development Authority will review the revolving loan fund checklist, guidelines, and restrictions, and consider new loan inquiries and loan committee recommendations. The board will also receive financial reports for April through June 2021 and updates on current loan statuses.

• Review of Revolving Loan Fund Guidelines and Checklist
• New loan inquiries and loan committee recommendations (7-30-21 draft minutes)
• Financial reports for April–June 2021
• Loan status updates, including delinquent accounts (Metz, Mueller, Bluff Country Co-Op)
• Revolving Loan Fund balance approximately $1.26 million as of June 2021

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss updates on jail programming, a cost analysis of juvenile justice supervision, a follow-up on a Human Rights Commission resolution, and the county's COVID-19 response. The committee advises the County Board on community services programs.

• Jail programming updates and follow-ups, including SIM study recommendations and CJCC meetings
• Juvenile justice supervision cost analysis and follow-up
• Discussion on content of Human Rights Commission resolution
• COVID-19 response update
• Approval of minutes from June 8, 2021 meeting

The committee approved the June 8, 2021 meeting minutes. Updates were provided on the new jail project, including a bid deadline of August 19 and County Board consideration on August 31. The committee discussed a plan to improve access to mental health services and a request for board action on prevention services mapping, but no formal decisions were made on these items.

• Approved June 8, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Jail project bids due by August 19, 2021 (update)
• County Board to consider jail bids on August 31, 2021 (update)
• Ground breaking for jail expected in September 2021 (update)
• Jail project completion estimated for June 2023 (update)

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The Winona County Parks & Environment Advisory Committee is meeting at Farmers Park to hear staff updates on Stone Point Park, Apple Blossom Park, and Farmers Park, plus a recycling update. The agenda is routine, with no votes or public hearings scheduled; the main business is receiving reports and member updates.

• Meeting location: Farmers Park, 23011 Co Rd 120, Winona, MN
• Update on Stone Point Park
• Update on Apple Blossom Park
• Update on Farmers Park
• Recycling update

The Winona County Parks & Environment Advisory Committee voted to remove the statement on the Winona County website that Stone Point Park is closed to the public and to explore sign funding options for both entrances. They also approved having staff look into cost estimates for paving the Apple Blossom parking lot. The committee approved the agenda and the minutes of the March 2, 2021 meeting, with an amendment to include Aaron Lafee as present.

• Approved agenda (all yes)
• Approved minutes of March 2, 2021, as amended (all yes)
• Voted to remove 'closed to public' statement from website and explore sign funding for Stone Point Park (all yes)
• Voted to have staff look into cost estimates for paving Apple Blossom parking lot (all yes)

Emergency Coordinating Committee

The Winona County Emergency Coordinating Committee is meeting to discuss the end of a declared emergency, 800MHz radio updates and training, and a COVID-19 update from Public Health. The agenda also includes open discussion and adjournment, with the next meeting scheduled for August 31st.

• End of declared emergency
• 800MHz radio updates and training
• Public Health COVID-19 update
• Open discussion

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board is meeting to approve routine contracts and resolutions, including a DocuSign contract, a peacetime emergency extension, and a tax-forfeited property repurchase. The board will also discuss the 2022 SEMMCHRA allocation and consider a preliminary levy resolution. A Community Health Board meeting precedes the main session.

• Approve contract with DocuSign
• Approve resolution extending peacetime emergency to September 1, 2021
• Award bid for CSAH 20 drainage improvements to Griffin Construction
• Approve resolution for repurchase of tax forfeited property
• Discuss/determine 2022 SEMMCHRA allocation and approve preliminary levy resolution

The board voted 5-0 to rescind the COVID-19 state of local emergency effective September 1, 2021, unless extended by a later resolution. It also approved a preliminary 2022 SEMMCHRA allocation and levy resolution for $100,000 by a 3-2 vote, with Commissioners Ward and Jacob dissenting. All consent agenda items, including contracts, a tax-forfeited property repurchase, and a prioritized bridge replacement list, were approved unanimously.

• Rescinded COVID-19 state of local emergency effective Sept. 1, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved preliminary 2022 SEMMCHRA allocation and $100,000 levy resolution (3-2)
• Approved contract with DocuSign (5-0)
• Approved contract with GovQA (5-0)
• Approved contract with VelocityEHS for safety data sheets (5-0)
• Approved repurchase of tax-forfeited property at 450 44th Ave, Winona (5-0)
• Approved prioritized bridge replacement list resolution (5-0)
• Approved $2,860,492.18 in disbursements for 07/07/21-07/20/21 (5-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment is considering a variance request from Rosanne Naunheim to build a new dwelling on a 50-acre parcel in Homer Township, on a Class III soil type instead of the required Class IV-VIII soils. Staff recommends the board weigh the materials and testimony, noting concerns about the home's visibility from the bluff and potential impacts on the area's character, while also identifying an alternative site that would not require a variance.

• Variance request for building site on Class III soil (Docket # BOA 07-15-21-01)
• Proposed dwelling on 50-acre parcel at Government Point Road, Homer Township
• Staff analysis flags concerns about aesthetic impact on prominent bluff overlooking Mississippi River
• Alternative building site to the SW would meet zoning requirements without variance
• Homer Township Board supports the project; no remonstrances received

The Winona County Board of Adjustment approved a variance for Rosanne Naunheim to build a home on a Class III soil type, instead of the required Class IV-VIII, on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. The decision was made with conditions, including a phase one archaeological survey and driveway permit. The vote was 4-1, with Chair Robert Redig dissenting.

• Approved the agenda and the June 17, 2021 minutes unanimously.
• Approved a variance for Rosanne Naunheim to establish a building site on Class III soil, with conditions, by a 4-1 vote.
• Amended Finding of Fact #3 to read 'has established' by a 4-1 vote.
• Amended Finding of Fact #2 to read 'is consistent' by a 4-1 vote.
• Rejected a motion to amend Finding of Fact #5 to read 'will not alter' due to lack of a second.
• Amended Finding of Fact #7 to read 'cannot be alleviated' by a 4-1 vote.
• Amended Finding of Fact #2 to read 'will not alter' by a 4-1 vote.
• Adopted the amended Findings of Fact and approved the variance with conditions by a 4-1 vote.

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission is meeting to consider two conditional/interim use permit requests: one for a 20-dog kennel on an existing farm in Warren Township, and another for a new dwelling within 300 feet of the Mississippi River bluff. The commission will also approve the prior meeting's minutes and receive updates from county liaisons.

• Dog kennel request by Erickson Family Shady Maple Farm Limited Partnership at 25526 County Road 25, Lewiston, for up to 20 adult dogs in the Agricultural/Resource Conservation District
• New dwelling request by Rosanne Naunheim within 300 feet of the bluff top in the Mississippi River Bluffs Overlay District
• Staff recommends evaluating the kennel petition as an Interim Use Permit with conditions, including a 20-dog limit and annual verification
• Warren Township Board expressed support for the kennel application in May 2021
• Public hearing notices mailed to 17 neighboring property owners for the kennel request

The Winona County Planning Commission recommended approval of an Interim Use Permit for a dog kennel at Erickson Family Shady Maple Farm, with conditions including a limit of 20 adult dogs and annual reporting in July. The commission also recommended approval of a Conditional Use Permit for a new dwelling within 300 feet of the bluff for Rosanne Naunheim, with conditions including tree screening and an archaeological survey. Both recommendations go to the County Board for final decision.

• Recommended approval of the dog kennel IUP (Docket # PC 07-15-21-01) to the County Board, with conditions, by an 8-1 vote.
• Amended condition 5 of the dog kennel IUP to require reporting the number of adult dogs in July instead of January, to align with the MN Board of Animal Health reporting period.
• Recommended approval of the bluff dwelling CUP (Docket # PC 07-15-21-02) to the County Board, with conditions, by a unanimous vote.
• Amended Findings of Fact 4, 5, and 6 for the bluff dwelling CUP to change 'is not' to 'is', by an 8-1 vote.
• Approved the agenda and the minutes of the June 17, 2021 meeting, both unanimously.
• Adjourned at 8:46 p.m.

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The board is reviewing sub-agreements with Olmsted, Wabasha, and Winona County Soil and Water Conservation Districts. These agreements involve the Whitewater Watershed Nonpoint Source Reduction Grant to fund equipment purchases and erosion reduction projects.

• Sub-agreement with Olmsted SWCD for technical assistance and equipment purchase
• Sub-agreement with Wabasha County SWCD for technical assistance and equipment purchase
• Sub-agreement with Winona County SWCD for technical assistance and equipment purchase
• Grant funds include up to $47,046 for equipment and erosion reduction projects

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board approved sub-agreements with Olmsted, Wabasha, and Winona County Soil and Water Conservation Districts for the 319 Non-Point Source Grant. All three motions passed unanimously. The board also discussed an update to the Olmsted sub-agreement regarding a roller crimper or soil health implement. The meeting adjourned at 8:45 a.m.

• Approved the Olmsted SWCD sub-agreement (motion by M. Flynn, seconded by J. Rentz; vote: all yes).
• Approved the Wabasha County SWCD sub-agreement (motion by S. Jacob, seconded by M. Flynn; vote: all yes).
• Approved the Winona County SWCD sub-agreement (motion by M. Flynn, seconded by J. Rentz; vote: all yes).
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:45 a.m. (motion by J. Rentz, seconded by S. Jacob; vote: all yes).

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold its regular meeting on July 13, 2021, with a consent agenda covering permits, contracts, and personnel actions, plus general business items including a University of Minnesota extension agreement and a design development phase for bids. The board will also enter a closed session to discuss multi-state opioid litigation. The agenda is largely routine, with no major policy changes or public hearings listed.

• Approve conditional use permit for Dennis Allen and Debra Abnet for dwelling on less than 40 acres
• Approve professional services agreement with Steve Hacken
• Approve demolition of Monument Building and surfacing
• Approve renewal of agreement for transportation of foster care children with Winona Area Public Schools ISD#861
• Approve Minnesota Department of Health grant for eliminating health disparities

The Winona County Board approved the design development phase for the new jail, allowing Klein-McCarthy to issue documents for bids, with a 3-2 vote. The board also approved a consent agenda including a conditional use permit, a professional services agreement, and a right of first refusal amendment, among other items. A resolution commending staff for service during the COVID-19 pandemic was adopted unanimously. The board recessed to a closed session to discuss multi-state opioid litigation.

• Approved design development phase for new jail, authorizing bid documents (3-2)
• Approved consent agenda including conditional use permit for Dennis Allen and Debra Abnet (5-0)
• Approved professional services agreement with Steve Hacken (5-0)
• Approved right of first refusal amendment for 30 S. Liberty Street (5-0)
• Approved renewal of agreement for transportation of children and youth in foster care with Winona Area Public Schools (5-0)
• Approved demolition of Monument Building and surfacing (5-0)
• Approved resolution commending staff for service during COVID-19 pandemic (5-0)
• Approved renewal of memorandum of agreement with University of Minnesota for extension services 2022-2024 (5-0)

Quarterly Emergency Management Meeting

This is a routine quarterly meeting of Winona County emergency management personnel. The agenda includes a presentation on FirstNet, water rescue response, radio training, an emergency management exercise, and department updates. No specific decisions or proposals are detailed in the agenda.

• FirstNet presentation
• Water rescue response discussion
• Radio training
• Emergency management exercise
• Department updates

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will convene for its regular meeting, starting with a Board of Appeal and Equalization session, followed by the main agenda. The board will consider several consent items, including appointing John Conway as County Assessor, approving a fuel supply bid, and a body camera agreement. A presentation from Habitat for Humanity is also scheduled.

• Approve Resolution Appointing John Conway as County Assessor
• Award Bid for Annual Supply of Gasoline and Diesel Fuel to Severson Oil Co.
• Approve Agreement with Visual Labs, Inc. for Body Camera and In-Vehicle Recording System
• Approve Renewal of Grant Agreement with City of Winona Through Winona Friendship Center for Senior Services
• Receive Presentation for Habitat for Humanity

The Winona County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the appointment of John Conway as County Assessor, effective June 28, 2021, at an annual salary of $84,102.72, with a term running until December 31, 2024. The board also approved the appointment of Thomas G. Anderson as Veterans Services Officer for a four-year term, and approved a consent agenda that included a bid award for fuel, an agreement for body cameras, and a resolution approving income maintenance and social service case actions. All votes were 5-0.

• Appointed John Conway as County Assessor (5-0)
• Appointed Thomas G. Anderson as Veterans Services Officer (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including fuel bid, body camera agreement, and monthly resolution (5-0)
• Approved minutes of June 8, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved agenda as amended (5-0)
• Adjourned at 7:31 p.m. (5-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment is considering a variance request from Mark Daley to build a home 815 feet from a neighboring feedlot, instead of the required 1,000 feet. The request was revised from an original 650-foot setback after staff and the neighbor identified a new building site. The board will also approve minutes from the May 20, 2021 meeting.

• Variance request to allow a building site 815 feet from a feedlot (variance of 185 feet), revised from the original 650-foot request
• Petition by Mark Daley for a new dwelling on an 80-acre parcel in Utica Township, near County Road 18
• Neighboring feedlot owned by Brian Sanders at 16962 County Road 18, registered for 50+ animal units
• Utica Township Board supports the project; petitioner Mark Daley is chairman of the Utica Township Board
• Staff recommends approval with amended Findings of Fact #1 reflecting the revised 815-foot setback

The Winona County Board of Adjustment approved a variance allowing Mark Daley to build a dwelling 815 feet from a registered feedlot, instead of the required 1,000 feet. The decision followed an amended Finding of Fact #1, based on a June 4, 2021 staff memo and discussion, and included conditions such as obtaining permits and recording a Right-to-Farm notice on the deed. The board also approved the agenda and the May 20, 2021 minutes.

• Approved the agenda as presented.
• Approved the May 20, 2021 minutes as presented.
• Amended Finding of Fact #1 to include language from the June 4, 2021 memo and board discussion.
• Approved the variance for an 815-foot setback from the feedlot, with amended findings and conditions.
• Adjourned the meeting at 1:32 p.m.

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit request by Dennis Allen and Debra Abnet to split a 1.5-acre parcel with an existing single-family dwelling from a 76-acre agricultural property. The house was built in 2006, and the current zoning requires a permit for dwellings on lots under 40 acres. Staff recommends approval with conditions, and the Commission will vote on whether to forward a favorable recommendation to the County Board.

• Docket # PC 06-17-21-01: Conditional use permit for existing dwelling on less than 40 acres (Chapter 10.4.6(36))
• Proposed split of 1.5 acres from 76-acre parcel in A/RC District near Ridgeway
• Pleasant Hill Township Board had no comments on the request
• Staff recommends approval with conditions, including deed recording of right-to-farm notice
• Public hearing with virtual and phone access options

The Winona County Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for Dennis Allen and Debra Abnet to allow an existing single-family dwelling on a lot of less than 40 acres. The recommendation, which includes conditions, will go to the County Board for final decision. The public hearing was opened and closed with no public comments.

• Approved the agenda with the inclusion of introductions.
• Approved the minutes from May 20, 2021.
• Opened the public hearing for Docket # PC 06-17-21-01.
• Closed the public hearing for Docket # PC 06-17-21-01.
• Adopted the Findings of Fact and recommended approval of the CUP to the County Board with conditions.
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:30 p.m.

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board is meeting to review its agenda and supporting documents. The agenda contains only procedural items, with no substantive decisions or discussions listed.

• Review of amended meeting packet
• Review of complete meeting packet

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board approved the proposed 2022 budget, accepted grant funds for the 319 non-point source grant, and passed a resolution to apply for Clean Water Fund support for erosion reduction in the North Fork. They also tabled a decision on renewing the rental contract for the coordinator until cost quotes are provided. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 2022 proposed budget (unanimous)
• Approved grant funds for 319 Whitewater Non-Point Source Grant (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to submit Clean Water Fund application for North Branch sediment reduction (unanimous)
• Tabled renewal of rental contract with Winona County SWCD until next meeting

Road & Bridge Committee

The Winona County Road & Bridge Committee is meeting to approve the agenda and prior minutes, receive maintenance and construction updates, and discuss an engineering staff request for the 2022 budget. They will also hear informational items on a DNR trail proposal, the unfunded LRIP applications, and Utica's water/sewer project, plus old business on several county roads.

• DNR Trail Proposal on Winona CRs 113 & 124 (early coordination)
• LRIP: $75M state program; none of Winona County's 7 applications funded
• City of Utica seeking USDA Rural Development funds for watermain/sewer replacements, possibly involving CSAH 33
• CSAH 16 'Rose Valley' request to pave/improve 2.7-mile gravel segment
• CSAH 17 (Homer Rd) request for crosswalk at East Burns Valley Rd

The committee approved the amended agenda and April 20, 2021 minutes. They discussed maintenance and construction updates, including the CR 1 project not receiving state funds, and staff requests for two new technicians. No formal decisions were made on these items; further discussion is planned.

• Approved the amended agenda unanimously.
• Approved the April 20, 2021 minutes unanimously.
• Discussed staff request for two technicians for 2022 budget, no action taken.
• Noted that no Winona County projects were awarded Local Road Improvement Program funds.
• Discussed support for a trail proposal in Saratoga Township, no formal action.
• Discussed CR 16 Otta Seal cost comparisons, no decision made.
• Discussed CR 30 ROW design, to be forwarded to DNR for review.
• Discussed CR 17 intersection safety, next step is discussion with City of Winona.

Board of Appeal & Equalization

The provided agenda text lists only 'Agendas' as an item. It references two PDF files: 'BOAE AGENDA.PDF' and 'BOAE AGENDA - AMENDED.PDF'. No specific decisions, hearings, or property appeals are described in the supplied text.

• Reference to document: BOAE AGENDA.PDF
• Reference to document: BOAE AGENDA - AMENDED.PDF

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

The WinLaC Policy Committee met to approve the contract with Houston Engineering, the selected consultant for the One Watershed One Plan. The group also reviewed the Minnesota Department of Health's presentation on groundwater protection strategies and discussed options for public outreach and the upcoming kickoff meeting.

• Approval of contract for services with Houston Engineering
• Review and approval of the Advisory Committee membership
• Presentation on Groundwater Restoration and Protection Strategies (GRAPS) by Minnesota Department of Health
• Discussion of public kickoff meeting and outreach efforts, including County Fairs
• Consideration of a logo for the WinLaC Planning Area

The Policy Committee unanimously approved Houston Engineering (HEI) as the consultant for the One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P) planning process, following a request for qualifications and interviews. The committee also reviewed and discussed the stakeholder advisory committee list, but deferred approval to the next meeting to consider adding a rural soils expert. Additionally, they discussed a logo design and outreach plans for county fairs.

• Approved Houston Engineering (HEI) as the consultant for the 1W1P planning process, with a roll call vote passing unanimously.
• Approved the agenda for the June 14, 2021 meeting, with item #6 moved up.
• Approved the minutes from the May 10, 2021 meeting as received, unanimously.
• Tabled approval of the Stakeholder Advisory Committee list until the next meeting, after a motion was withdrawn to consider adding Josh Elsing.
• Discussed but did not decide on a logo for the partnership, agreeing it should include cliffs, trout streams, and agriculture.
• Discussed outreach at county fairs, with a survey to be prepared for comment.

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee will meet to discuss updates on jail programming, a Sequential Intercept Model (SIM) report, and options for juvenile justice supervision. They will also receive a COVID-19 response update and consider a future agenda item on a Human Rights Commission resolution. The meeting is advisory to the County Board.

• Jail programming updates and follow-ups from a May 26 listening session and CJCC meetings
• SIM report for Intercepts 1 and 0
• Presentation on options for juvenile justice supervision
• Discussion on content of Human Rights Commission resolution
• Winona County COVID-19 response update

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee approved creating a subcommittee to study the SIM report and recommend ways to improve navigation and access to county mental health services. The committee also tabled a discussion on juvenile justice supervision options until the next meeting, pending a cost analysis and input from other agencies. Updates were provided on jail construction, a new mental health crisis center, and an Alternative Response Team.

• Approved minutes from May 11, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Created subcommittee to study SIM report and recommend improvements to mental health service access (unanimous)
• Tabled juvenile justice supervision options discussion until next meeting
• Tabled discussion on Human Rights Commission resolution content until next meeting

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will consider consent items including a conditional use permit for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, a performance measures resolution, travel policies, a legal assistant services agreement, a premises permit for the Winona Eagles Club, liquor license renewals, a sentencing-to-service contract, a safe drinking water sub-agreement, a boat and water safety grant, and a consulting agreement for healthcare claiming. They will also discuss a respectful workplace policy and a human rights commission resolution.

• Conditional use permit for Wisconsin Department of Transportation
• Approve Performance Measures Resolution
• Approve Travel Expenses and Reimbursements Policy 3.08 and Travel for Winona County Elected Officials Policy 3.09
• Approve LG214 Premises Permit Application and Resolution for Winona Eagles Club
• Approve Renewal of Liquor, Beer and 3.2% Malt Liquor Licenses

The Winona County Board approved the consent agenda, including a conditional use permit for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, travel policy updates, a gambling premises permit for the Winona Eagles Club, and various agreements and grants. The board also adopted Resolution #2021-028, continuing participation in the state performance measurement program. Discussion on the Respectful Workplace Policy was tabled pending further guidance from administration.

• Approved consent agenda including CUP for Wisconsin DOT (5-0)
• Approved travel policies 3.08 and 3.09 (5-0)
• Approved gambling premises permit for Winona Eagles Club (5-0)
• Approved renewal of liquor licenses (5-0)
• Approved FY2021 Safe Drinking Water sub-agreement (5-0)
• Approved 2021 Boat and Water Safety Grant (5-0)
• Adopted Performance Measures Resolution #2021-028 (5-0)
• Tabled Respectful Workplace Policy discussion pending admin guidance (5-0)

Winona WorkForce Development Board

The Winona Workforce Development Board is meeting virtually to discuss routine business including agenda and minutes approval, board member reports, and updates from regional programs. The executive director will present a financial report through 3/31/21, discuss the board budget, and outline strategic planning focus areas. The board will also consider a hiatus for July/August and nominations for September executive committee positions.

• Financial report through 3/31/21 and board budget review
• Strategic planning focus areas discussion
• July/August meeting hiatus and MAWB meeting Aug. 4-5
• September executive committee nominations and vote
• One Stop Operator update

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold a regular meeting on May 25, 2021, preceded by a Community Health Board meeting. The board will consider consent items including a request for proposal with Gallagher Benefit Services, a snowmobile grant, a grant renewal with Winona Volunteer Services, a COVID-19 response and vaccine grant, a boating safety grant, and payment of disbursements. In general business, the board will decide whether to add a future agenda item to discuss the content of a Human Rights Commission resolution. The agenda is largely routine, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approve Request for Proposal with Gallagher Benefit Services
• Approve DNR Snowmobile Grant-In-Aid Program Resolutions for MN Trail Assistance Program
• Approve Renewal of Grant Agreement with Winona Volunteer Services
• Approve MDH Community Health Board Grant for COVID-19 Response and Vaccine Implementation
• Approve/Deny Future Agenda Item to Discuss Content of Human Rights Commission Resolution

The Winona County Board of Commissioners met on May 25, 2021, and approved a consent agenda that included a Request for Proposal with Gallagher Benefit Services, four snowmobile trail assistance resolutions, a monthly resolution for health and human services actions, a grant agreement with Winona Volunteer Services, a COVID-19 response grant agreement, and a boating safety patrol grant. The board also confirmed disbursements totaling $1,277,348.31 and approved a future agenda item to discuss a Human Rights Commission resolution at the June 8 meeting. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved Request for Proposal with Gallagher Benefit Services (5-0)
• Approved Resolution #2021-023 for Corridor 30 Snowsports Snowmobile Club trail assistance (5-0)
• Approved Resolution #2021-024 for Corridor 60 Country Climbers Snowmobile Club trail assistance (5-0)
• Approved Resolution #2021-025 for Corridor 70 Rollingstone Snowbankers Snowmobile Club trail assistance (5-0)
• Approved Resolution #2021-026 for Whitewater Trailblazers Snowmobile Club trail assistance (5-0)
• Approved Resolution #2021-027 for monthly health and human services case actions and payments (5-0)
• Approved renewal of grant agreement with Winona Volunteer Services (5-0)
• Approved Minnesota Department of Health COVID-19 response grant agreement (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation is requesting a Conditional Use Permit to replace an existing 260-foot guyed wire tower with a new 280-foot self-support tower. The project includes a new radio equipment building and a back-up generator system on a 4.5-acre site along County Road 1. The facility is intended to support the Wisconsin Interoperable System for Communications.

• Conditional Use Permit request for a new 280' self-support tower and equipment building
• Replacement of existing 260' guyed wire tower at 31248 County Road 1
• Proposed facility includes a security fence, gated entry, and back-up generator
• Staff recommendation for approval subject to specific conditions regarding height and maintenance

The Winona County Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of a conditional use permit (CUP) for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to replace a 260-foot guyed wire tower with a 280-foot self-support tower, plus a radio equipment building and backup generator. The recommendation will go to the County Board. The commission also discussed solar development topics, including potential fee increases and phased inspections, but took no formal action.

• Recommended approval of WDOT CUP for tower replacement (5-0)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April 15, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Opened and closed public hearing for WDOT CUP (unanimous)
• Adopted findings of fact and recommended CUP approval with conditions (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on three variance petitions. These include requests to reduce setbacks for a new dwelling, to allow a building site on a different soil type, and to reduce the distance from a feedlot. The board will also approve minutes from a previous meeting.

• Variance for new dwelling 48 ft from Riverview Drive centerline (required 112 ft) and 5 ft side setback (required 10 ft)
• Variance to allow building site on Class II soil instead of required Class IV-VIII
• Variance to allow building site 650 ft from a feedlot (required 1,000 ft)
• Approval of minutes from January 21, 2021 meeting

The Winona County Board of Adjustment approved a variance for Ronald & Jane Shritz to build a dwelling closer to Riverview Drive and a side yard setback, and approved a prime soils variance for Mark Daley to build a homestead. A third petition by Mark Daley for a feedlot setback variance was tabled to allow the applicant and feedlot owner to seek a solution.

• Approved variance for Shritz dwelling at 48 ft from Riverview Drive centerline and 5 ft side setback (5-0)
• Approved prime soils variance for Mark Daley to establish a building site on Class II soil (5-0)
• Tabled feedlot setback variance for Mark Daley until June 2021 meeting (5-0)

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee will discuss and possibly recommend action on a contract for child welfare targeted case management services, following up on an April discussion. They will also receive updates on jail programming, COVID-19 response, and explore ways to support foster care families. The meeting includes routine items like approving minutes and setting the next meeting date.

• Contract for Child Welfare Targeted Case Management Services
• Jail programming updates and follow-ups from listening sessions and CJCC meetings
• Discussion on ways to support foster care families
• Winona County COVID-19 response update

The committee unanimously approved a recommendation for Winona County to contract with community providers for Child Welfare Targeted Case Management (CWTCM) services, aiming to stabilize costs and expand family services. The recommendation will go to the County Board, with a target start date of January 1, 2022. The committee also approved the April 13, 2021 meeting minutes and discussed jail programming and foster care support.

• Approved minutes from April 13, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation to contract with community providers for CWTCM services (unanimous)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will consider several conditional and interim use permits, including a campground, retail store, and dog kennel, along with liquor and gambling licenses. They will also discuss a solar ordinance and a respectful workplace policy.

• Conditional use permit for Craig and Debra Spies, Shannon Spies Ingersoll and Jeff Ryg for dwelling on less than 40 acres in shoreland
• Conditional use permit for Chelsi Low for commercial recreation campground
• Interim use permit for Dennis and Cindy Sue Glawe for retail store
• Interim use permit for Elmer Yoder and Henry Yoder for dog kennel facility
• Discuss solar ordinance

The Winona County Board approved an interim use permit for a dog kennel facility for Elmer and Henry Yoder by a 3-2 vote, with Commissioners Olson and Kovecsi dissenting. They also approved an interim use permit for a retail store for Dennis and Cindy Sue Glawe, and a conditional use permit for a commercial recreation campground for Chelsi Low. The board discussed a solar ordinance and directed staff to continue reviewing conditions, and scheduled further discussion of a respectful workplace policy for June 8, 2021.

• Approved dog kennel interim use permit for Elmer and Henry Yoder (3-2)
• Approved retail store interim use permit for Dennis and Cindy Sue Glawe (5-0)
• Approved commercial recreation campground conditional use permit for Chelsi Low (3-2)
• Approved consent agenda including liquor license, gambling permits, and $1,249,304.65 in disbursements (5-0)
• Directed staff to continue reviewing solar ordinance conditions
• Scheduled respectful workplace policy discussion for June 8, 2021 (4-1)

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

This meeting has no agenda available. The only provided material is a meeting update document, so the body is not deciding or discussing any listed items.

• No agenda available
• Meeting update document provided

The WinLaC 1W1P Policy Committee approved the April minutes, reviewed responses to state agency notifications, and discussed adding city staff and The Nature Conservancy to the Advisory Committee. Four consultant proposals were received for the watershed plan RFQ; the Planning Work Group will select three for interviews, with Lynn Zabel representing the Policy Committee. The committee also discussed public outreach options, including a virtual kickoff and Watershed Chats, and heard a presentation on MDA priorities for nitrate reduction.

• Approved April 12, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved agenda with no changes
• Discussed adding city staff and The Nature Conservancy to Advisory Committee (no formal action)
• Reviewed four consultant RFQ proposals; selection to proceed with interviews May 26-27
• Selected Lynn Zabel (with Bob Walkes as backup) to represent Policy Committee in consultant interviews
• Set next meeting for June 14, 2021 via Zoom

Winona WorkForce Development Board

The Winona County Workforce Development Board is meeting virtually to approve the agenda and minutes, hear reports from member agencies, and discuss the regional and local plan, an infrastructure funding agreement, and the outcome of a request for proposals (RFP) vote for a CareerForce service provider. The board will also discuss board member recruitment and budget preparation.

• RFP vote outcome for CareerForce provider of OSO, strategic planning, and staffing
• Regional & Local Plan submitted
• Infrastructure Funding Agreement submitted
• Board member recruitment
• Regional Forum feedback and board budget preparation

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The Winona County Parks & Environment Advisory Committee will meet at Stone Point Park to review the lawn panel and future picnic area, and take a walking tour to explore implementation options. They will also discuss Apple Blossom Park tree planting and Farmers Park updates. The meeting includes a phone option for quorum, but in-person attendance is encouraged.

• Review of Stone Point Park lawn panel and future picnic area, with walking tour
• Apple Blossom Park tree planting on Arbor Day
• Farmers Park updates
• Member updates
• Next meeting scheduled for July 6, 2021 at Farmers Park

The Parks & Environment Advisory Committee approved a motion to provide trash accommodation at Apple Blossom Overlook Park, despite opposition from two members. The committee also discussed trail development at Stone Point Park, including potential partnerships and research on contaminated soils, but took no formal action on these items.

• Approved agenda (all in favor)
• Approved minutes of March 2, 2021, as amended (all in favor)
• Approved motion to provide trash accommodation at Apple Blossom Park (passed, opposed by S. Jacob and D. Evanson)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will vote on consent items including contracts, a bad debt write-off, and an interim assessor appointment, and will discuss whether to add a solar ordinance review to a future agenda. The meeting includes routine approvals and a public comment period.

• Approve write-off of bad debt for Economic Development Authority loan to Jeffrey Mintz
• Approve resolution providing monetary relief on liquor licenses
• Award bid for aggregate shouldering to Dunn Blacktop Co.
• Approve interim assessor appointment of John Conway
• Approve/deny future agenda item to review solar ordinance

The Winona County Board approved a 25% reduction in on-sale liquor license fees for the July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022 renewal period, citing COVID-19 impacts. The board also approved a consent agenda including a trail grant application, an interim assessor appointment, and a bid award for aggregate shouldering. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved 25% reduction in on-sale liquor license fees for 2021-22 (5-0)
• Approved MN Trail Assistance Program application for SE MN ATV CLUB (5-0)
• Approved interim assessor appointment of John Conway (5-0)
• Awarded bid for aggregate shouldering to Dunn Blacktop Co. (5-0)
• Approved write-off of bad debt for EDA loan to Jeffrey Mintz (5-0)
• Approved donations totaling $2,761.95 for Q1 2021 (5-0)
• Approved $1,112,607.12 in disbursements (5-0)
• Approved future agenda item to discuss solar ordinance on May 11 (5-0)

Economic Development Authority Board

The Winona County Economic Development Authority Board is scheduled to meet on April 22, 2021. The agenda contains only the heading 'Agendas' and references to two PDF documents, with no specific agenda items listed.

• Meeting date: April 22, 2021
• Agenda includes only 'Agendas' section
• Two documents referenced: 'COMPLETE 4-22-21 EDA PACKET WITH HANDOUTS.PDF' and 'COMPLETE 4-22-21 EDA PACKET.PDF'

The Winona County Economic Development Authority approved the agenda, minutes, and financial reports unanimously. The board voted to instruct the County Attorney's Office to file a Notice of Demand in the last county of residence of Jeffrey Mintz, a deceased owner of Envirolastech, regarding a defaulted loan. No other substantive decisions were made; items like the 2022 budget and OpenGov software were discussed but not voted on.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved January 28, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved January-March 2021 financial reports (unanimous)
• Instructed County Attorney's Office to file Notice of Demand for Envirolastech loan (unanimous)

Road & Bridge Committee

The Winona County Road & Bridge Committee will meet to consider a request to pave or improve a 2.7-mile gravel segment of CSAH 16, and a request for a crosswalk on CSAH 17 (Homer Rd) at East Burns Valley Rd. They will also receive updates on construction and maintenance projects, and discuss right-of-way acquisition for a 2022 grading project on CSAH 30 and possible reconstruction of CSAH 37 (Fabian Corner) with a 2024 paving project.

• Request to pave or improve 2.7-mile gravel segment of CSAH 16
• Request for crosswalk at East Burns Valley Rd on CSAH 17 (Homer Rd)
• Right-of-way acquisition (DNR and private) for CSAH 30 2022 grading project
• Possible reconstruction of CSAH 37 (Fabian Corner) with 2024 paving project
• City of Altura seeking USDA Rural Development funds for watermain/sewer replacements, may request county road work on CSAH 33 and Co Rd 112

The Road and Bridge Committee discussed a resident's request to pave or improve the 2.7-mile gravel segment of CSAH 16, noting Otta Seal as a feasible option, but took no action. They also discussed a crosswalk request on CSAH 17, with staff to consult the City of Winona. Construction and maintenance updates were provided, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• December 15, 2020 minutes approved unanimously
• Discussed CSAH 16 paving request, no action taken
• Discussed CSAH 17 crosswalk request, staff to consult City of Winona
• Noted transportation sales tax revenue down 4.1% (Mar-Oct 2020 vs 2019)
• Adjourned at 11:20 AM unanimously

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board will meet to approve amendments to the Surface Water Assessment Grant and related sub-agreements, as well as Drinking Water Protection Grant amendments. They will also discuss procedures for cost share contracts and receive updates on the 319 Nitrogen Reduction Grant.

• Approve $13,486.11 increase to Surface Water Assessment Grant
• Approve amendment to Wabasha County SWCD sub-agreement for SWAG (up to $10,838.72 for staff time)
• Approve amendments to Wabasha and Winona County SWCD sub-agreements for Drinking Water Protection Grant
• Discuss cost share contract procedures regarding landowner names in packets
• Approve cover crop billboard amendment and Winona County SWCD sub-agreement for 319 Nitrogen Reduction Grant

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board approved several amendments to grant sub-agreements, including for the Surface Water Assessment Grant and Drinking Water Protection Grant, and approved a cover crop billboard amendment. They also voted to follow the Winona SWCD example for future cost share reporting. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved minutes of February 18, 2021 meeting (all yes)
• Approved amended agenda (all yes)
• Approved amended bills and payroll including MVTL labs check (all yes)
• Approved following Winona SWCD example for cost share reporting (all yes)
• Approved Surface Water Assessment Grant amendment (all yes)
• Approved amendment to Wabasha County SWCD sub-agreement (all yes)
• Approved amendments to Olmsted, Wabasha, and Winona County SWCD sub-agreements for Drinking Water Protection Grant (all yes)
• Approved cover crop billboard amendment (all yes)

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will hold public hearings on four conditional or interim use permit requests, including a home on less than 40 acres in a shoreland overlay, an eight-site campground, a dog kennel, and a retail store for quilting products. The commission will also approve the agenda and minutes from the prior meeting. Staff reports and findings are attached for each petition.

• Craig Spies: conditional use permits for a dwelling on ~5 acres in New Hartford Township, within A/RC and Shoreland Overlay Districts
• Chelsi Low: conditional use permit for a commercial recreational campground with 8 campsites in A/RC District
• Henry & Elmer Yoder: interim/conditional use permit for a dog kennel at 16752 Sandstone Drive, Utica
• Glen & Cindy Sue Glawe: interim/conditional use permit for retail store 'Pickwick Creations LLC' selling quilting products and local artwork

The Winona County Planning Commission recommended approval of four conditional/interim use permits to the County Board: a dwelling on less than 40 acres, an eight-site commercial campground, a dog kennel, and a retail store. All were approved with conditions, with the campground and kennel passing by split votes. The commission also approved the agenda and minutes.

• Recommended approval of CUP for dwelling on less than 40 acres in A/RC District (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of CUP for 8-site commercial campground (5-2)
• Recommended approval of IUP for dog kennel (7-1)
• Recommended approval of IUP for retail store 'Pickwick Creations LLC' (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 18, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for April 15, 2021, has been cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services. The next meeting is scheduled for May 20, 2021, at 1:00 pm. This notice contains no agenda items for discussion or decision.

• Meeting cancelled by Planning & Environmental Services
• Next meeting scheduled for May 20, 2021, at 1:00 pm

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee will meet to approve minutes, hear a presentation on a contract for Child Welfare Targeted Case Management Services, receive updates on jail programming and COVID-19 response, and discuss member updates. The meeting is advisory to the County Board.

• Approve minutes from March 9, 2021 meeting
• Presentation on contract for Child Welfare Targeted Case Management Services
• Jail programming updates (March listening session, SIM mapping, CJCC meetings)
• Winona County COVID-19 response update
• Determine date of next meeting

The committee approved the March 9, 2021 meeting minutes. They reviewed a presentation on contracting Child Welfare Targeted Case Management (CWTCM) services to community providers, but deferred any recommendation to the next meeting. Updates were given on jail programming, including the County Board's 3-2 approval of the Klein-McCarthy jail design, and on COVID-19 response.

• Approved March 9, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Deferred decision on CWTCM contract recommendation to next meeting
• Noted County Board approved jail schematic design (3-2)

Winona County Board

This is the agenda for the Winona County Board meeting on April 13, 2021. The agenda includes amended packets, indicating changes to the original agenda. The specific items for discussion or decision are not listed in the provided text.

• Amended agenda packets (2nd and 3rd amendments)
• Closed session minutes from April 13, 2021

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

This meeting has no available agenda; only a policy committee meeting summary is provided. The agenda is procedural boilerplate with no specific decisions or discussions listed.

The Policy Committee approved the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a consultant to assist with the WinLaC watershed plan, and chose a faster timeline for the selection process. They also reviewed and added members to the draft Advisory Committee list, and discussed public outreach options, including a required Public Kickoff event. The RFQ will be sent to consulting firms on April 13, 2021, with a submittal deadline of May 4, 2021.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved minutes as received (unanimous)
• Approved Request for Qualifications for consultant, with faster timeline
• Added five suggested members to Advisory Committee draft list
• Discussed public outreach options, including social media and county fairs

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, consent items, and several highway construction contracts. They will also consider adding future agenda items on workplace policy and a public data request, and receive a monthly finance update.

• Award bid for CSAH 25 reconstruction and surfacing to Dunn Blacktop Company
• Award bid for CSAH 37 resurfacing and culverts to Dunn Blacktop Company
• Award bid for CSAH 15 & CR 107 reconstruction to Mathiowetz Construction Company
• Approve agreements for State Local Bridge Replacement Program grants for CSAH 5 and CSAH 26 bridges
• Approve resolution for parking restriction on CSAH 23 near Hwy 14

The Winona County Board approved several consent agenda items, including special assessments, grant agreements for bridge replacements, a parking restriction on CSAH 23, and bids for road reconstruction. They also approved a future agenda item to discuss a respectful workplace policy, with a 3-2 vote. The board received a finance update and added a future item on chronic wasting disease.

• Approved special assessment of $94 on property at 25357 County Road 7 (5-0)
• Approved bridge grant agreements for CSAH 5 ($361,430) and CSAH 26 ($579,090) (5-0)
• Approved parking restriction on CSAH 23 north of Hwy 14 (5-0)
• Awarded bids for CSAH 25 and CSAH 37 to Dunn Blacktop Company (5-0)
• Approved additional funding for Toward Zero Deaths Enforcement Grant (5-0)
• Approved closing Fund 32-2010A bond and transferring funds to Fund 33-2020A (5-0)
• Approved disbursements totaling $1,400,693.68 (5-0)
• Approved future agenda item to discuss respectful workplace policy (3-2)

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission voted 6-3 to recommend approval of a conditional use permit for a 1 MW solar project on the George and Kimberly Karr Revocable Trust property, known as Solar Club 23. The recommendation includes 17 conditions, including a new condition requiring the property owner to maintain ground vegetation and landscaping for the permit's duration. The matter now goes to the County Board for a final decision.

• Approved the agenda and the February 18, 2021 minutes unanimously.
• Recommended approval of the conditional use permit for the Solar Club 23 project to the County Board with conditions, by a 6-3 vote.
• Added condition #17 requiring the property owner to maintain all ground vegetation and landscaping per the landscaping plan for the permit's duration.
• Denied a motion to recommend denial of the permit, which failed 3-6.
• Opened and closed the public hearing on the permit application.
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:44 p.m.

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Winona County Health & Human Services Advisory Committee is meeting to hear a presentation on the Winona County Re-Entry Assistance Program (WRAP), receive updates on jail programming and the county's COVID-19 response, and review or approve its 2021 goals. The committee will also approve minutes from the February 9, 2021 meeting and welcome newly appointed members.

• Presentation on Winona County Re-Entry Assistance Program (WRAP) by Kalene Engel
• Jail programming updates: listening sessions, SIM mapping, CJCC meetings
• Review/approve Committee Goals 2021
• Winona County COVID-19 Response Update by Karen Sanness/Melanie Tatge
• Approve minutes from February 9, 2021 meeting

The committee unanimously approved the February 9, 2021 meeting minutes. They agreed to continue with the four previously written 2021 goals. Members heard a presentation on the Winona County Re-Entry Assistance Program (WRAP+), funded by the Dept. of Justice, and received a COVID-19 response update from the county PHN Manager. The next meeting is set for April 13, 2021.

• Approved the February 9, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously.
• Agreed to continue with the four previously written 2021 goals.
• Scheduled the next meeting for April 13, 2021, as a virtual/call-in meeting.

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board is meeting to consider consent items including two conditional use permits, approval of the county administrator's 2021 compensation, a COVID business relief final report, and a fund transfer for roads. General business includes updates on the Southeast Minnesota Arts Council and the sheriff's unmanned aircraft system policy, plus discussion on DNR access to the old landfill.

• Conditional use permit for Matthew and Tessa Nelson for dwelling on less than forty acres
• Conditional use permit for Andrew and Darienne Frickson for existing on-site retail store
• Approve County Administrator 2021 Compensation
• Accept COVID Business Relief Final Report
• Approve Transfer of Funds from General Fund to Road and Bridge Fund

The Winona County Board denied a request to allow Department of Natural Resources access to the old landfill (2-3), and tabled a decision on allowing deer culling at Stone Point Park until March 23, 2021. The board also approved consent items including conditional use permits, the county administrator's 2021 compensation, and a COVID business relief final report.

• Approved minutes of Feb 23, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved consent business including CUP for Nelson dwelling, CUP for Frickson retail store, administrator compensation, COVID relief report, disposal of excess furniture, Spyglass agreement, fund transfer, and disbursements (5-0)
• Denied DNR access to old landfill (2-3)
• Tabled DNR access to Stone Point Park for deer culling until March 23, 2021 (5-0)

Mississippi River Winona La Crescent One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P)

This meeting has no published agenda, only a policy committee meeting summary document. The agenda is procedural boilerplate with no actionable items listed.

• No agenda items listed
• Meeting summary document available

The Policy Committee approved the Memorandum of Agreement and Bylaws, then elected Marie Kovecsi as Chair, Bill Rowekamp as Vice Chair, and Pam Eyden as Secretary. They also approved sending a notification letter to plan review authorities and tabled finalizing the Advisory Committee list until the next meeting. The committee discussed consultant qualifications, emphasizing experience with karst landscapes, and received a DNR presentation on watershed priorities.

• Approved the Memorandum of Agreement and Bylaws (10-0).
• Elected Marie Kovecsi as Chair, Bill Rowekamp as Vice Chair, and Pam Eyden as Secretary.
• Approved sending a notification letter to plan review authorities and stakeholders.
• Tabled final Advisory Committee list; members to submit additional names by next meeting.
• Discussed consultant RFQ, requiring experience with karst environments and unique biology.
• Received DNR presentation on seven priority areas for protection and restoration.

Winona WorkForce Development Board

The Winona County Workforce Development Board is meeting virtually to discuss and decide on the Request for Proposals (RFP) for the One Stop Operator, which will determine the next three years of service delivery. They will also review regional and local plans, receive updates on labor trends, and plan the April 22 regional forum, including Best Places to Work awards. The agenda includes routine reports from member organizations and committees.

• RFP proposal discussion for One Stop Operator (3-year decision)
• Regional Forum on 4/22, Best Places to Work awards (submit by 3/5/21)
• Southeast MN labor trends update (Q1-Q3 2020 data)
• Access to Microsoft Teams for future meetings
• Regional & Local Plan discussion

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The Winona County Parks & Environment Advisory Committee will meet to discuss updates on the Oriental Bittersweet grant, a county-wide recycling guide, and spring goals for Apple Blossom and Farmers Parks. They will also consider next steps for Stone Point Park utilization and hear an update from Visit Winona.

• MDA Oriental Bittersweet Grant update
• Waste reduction and final county-wide 'Recycler' by GreenCorps member Kelsie Travers
• Apple Blossom Park: DNR grant replacement tree planting and Miscanthus removal
• Farmers Park: garlic mustard removal, building removal, Women's Pavilion repair, post removal near Gingko trees
• Stone Point: County Board approved plan, potential next steps for resident use

The committee approved a $50 non-refundable pavilion rental fee at Farmers Park, with an additional $25 charge if keys are not returned, effective 2022. It also voted to remove posts near Gingko trees and to hold a future meeting at Stone Point Park to explore park uses. No other major decisions were made; most items were updates or discussions.

• Approved $50 non-refundable Farmers Park pavilion rental fee (all yes, J. Howard abstained)
• Approved $25 charge for unreturned pavilion keys (part of same motion)
• Approved removal of posts near Gingko trees at Farmers Park (all yes)
• Approved holding a meeting at Stone Point Park to explore park uses (all yes)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold its regular meeting on February 23, 2021, to consider consent items including approval of a Community Engagement Plan, a DNR access agreement to the old landfill, a federal trail equipment grant for a snowmobile club, a mobile crisis grant agreement, road improvement resolutions, and approval of 2020 restricted and assigned reserves. General business includes acknowledging completion of the County Administrator's performance review and receiving a monthly finance update. The agenda is largely routine administrative and financial approvals.

• Approve Community Engagement Plan
• Approve DNR access to old landfill
• Approve 2021 Trail Equipment Grant – Federal Recreational Trail Program - Snowsports Snowmobile Club
• Approve 2021-2022 Adult & Children's Mobile Crisis Grant Cooperative agreement
• Approve resolutions for Local Road Improvement Program projects

The Winona County Board approved the Community Engagement Plan and tabled a decision on Department of Natural Resources access to the old landfill until March 9, 2021. The board also approved several resolutions, including a trail equipment grant for the Snowsports Snowmobile Club, support for Local Road Improvement Program projects, and appointments to the Personnel Board of Appeals. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved the Community Engagement Plan (5-0).
• Tabled DNR access to the old landfill until March 9, 2021 (5-0).
• Approved Resolution #2021-007 supporting a 2021 Trail Equipment Grant for the Snowsports Snowmobile Club (5-0).
• Approved Resolution #2021-008 approving monthly Health and Human Services case actions and payments (5-0).
• Approved Resolution #2021-009 to act as project sponsor for Local Road Improvement Program (LRIP) grants (5-0).
• Approved Resolution #2021-010 supporting an LRIP grant for CSAH 1 resurfacing (5-0).
• Approved Resolution #2021-011 appointing James Wenzler, Emily Solheid, and Jeremy Beck to the Personnel Board of Appeals (5-0).
• Approved consent agenda items including the 2020 Restricted and Assigned Reserves and confirmed disbursements totaling $1,070,273.70 (5-0).

Whitewater Joint Powers Board (WWJPB)

The Board approved a one-year extension for the $191,550 Drinking Water Protection Grant to December 31, 2023. This change allows the project to accommodate three-year cover crop contracts. The Board also reviewed financial updates and approved various cover crop payments.

• Extension of Drinking Water Protection Grant expiration from 12/31/2022 to 12/31/2023
• Approval of Attachment A to the Whitewater Joint Powers Board Agreement Amendment
• Approval of 319 Nitrogen Reduction Grant amendment and cover crop payments
• Approval of 2019 audit and 2020 audit proposal
• Payment of bills totaling $10,900.40

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board elected Josh Elsing as Chair, Lynn Zabel as Vice Chair, Bob Walkes as Secretary/Treasurer, and James Rentz as alternate Secretary/Treasurer. The board approved the December 2020 minutes, the amended agenda, consent items including bills and payroll, Attachment A to the Joint Powers Agreement, a grant amendment for the Drinking Water Protection Grant, and a cover crop payment to Kronebusch. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved minutes of December 16, 2020 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved amended agenda including cover crop payment item (unanimous)
• Approved consent items including bills, payroll, MCIT payment, University of MN payments, and cover crop payment (unanimous)
• Elected Josh Elsing as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Lynn Zabel as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Bob Walkes as Secretary/Treasurer (unanimous)
• Elected James Rentz as alternate Secretary/Treasurer (unanimous)
• Approved Attachment A to the Joint Powers Agreement (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Winona County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on three conditional use permit requests: a 1 MW solar array, a dwelling on less than 40 acres, and an on-farm meat retail store. They will also elect officers and adopt rules of procedure. The agenda includes only these items, with no other substantive business.

• Conditional use permit for 1 MW solar project by George & Kimberly Karr Revocable Trust/SolarClub 23 at 32979 County Road 1, La Crescent
• Conditional use permit for dwelling on 3 acres in Agricultural/Resource Conservation District by Matthew & Tessa Nelson and John Fahrendholz
• Conditional use permit for on-farm meat retail store by Andrew and Darienne Frickson (Frickson Farms LLC)
• Election of officers (Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary)
• Annual review and adoption of Rules of Procedure

The Winona County Planning Commission recommended approval of a conditional use permit for a new dwelling on less than 40 acres in Wiscoy Township, and another for an on-farm retail meat store in New Hartford Township. A solar project request was tabled to the next meeting. Officers were elected for the year.

• Elected Mark Clark as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Mike Flynn as Vice Chair (5-2, 1 abstention)
• Elected Kelley Stanage as Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted Rules of Procedure (unanimous)
• Tabled solar CUP to March 18, 2021 (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of dwelling CUP (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of on-farm retail store CUP (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment will not meet on February 18, 2021, because no applications were received for the month. This is a procedural cancellation notice, with no items to be discussed or decided.

• Meeting cancelled for February 18, 2021
• No applications received for February

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee will meet to approve minutes, decide on its involvement with jail programming efforts, follow up on foster care supports, review committee goals, and receive a COVID-19 response update. The meeting is advisory to the County Board.

• Approve minutes from January 12, 2021 meeting
• Determine committee's help/involvement with jail programming efforts
• Foster care supports follow-up
• Review committee goals
• Winona County COVID-19 response update

The committee approved the January 12, 2021 minutes. They discussed jail programming efforts, including listening sessions and SIM mapping meetings, and reviewed their 2021 goals. COVID-19 updates noted a downward trend in cases, with 200 vaccine doses weekly, 100 for K-12, and a press release for over-65 vaccinations. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the minutes.

• Approved minutes from January 12, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Discussed jail programming involvement, no formal action
• Reviewed committee goals for 2021, final approval pending next meeting

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board approved a grant agreement with the State of Minnesota for the jail project and directed staff to research using sales tax as potential jail funding. Several service agreements were renewed or approved, including with Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center and Winona ORC Industries, with one abstention each. The board also approved a law enforcement labor agreement with one no vote and made several appointments to advisory committees.

• Approved grant agreement with State of Minnesota for Jail Project (5-0)
• Approved sales tax funding research for jail (4-1)
• Approved purchase of service agreement with Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center for child mental health services (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved purchase of service agreement for mental health services with Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved renewal of purchase of service agreement with Winona ORC Industries (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved Law Enforcement Labor Services Local #64 2021-2022 Agreement (4-1)
• Appointed Jordan Potter as Board of Adjustment Liaison to Planning Commission
• Reappointed Justin Green and appointed Samuel Gondola and Jen Whetstone to Health and Human Services Advisory Committee (5-0)

Winona WorkForce Development Board

The Winona County Workforce Development Board is meeting virtually to approve its agenda and minutes, hear reports from member organizations, and receive updates on regional economic and workforce programs. The meeting includes presentations on StartUp Winona State and Lead for America, as well as financial and strategic planning updates from the executive director.

• StartUp Winona State and Lead for America overview
• Regional economic update videos from MN DEED
• Workplace Inclusion resources and conference
• Strategic planning responses and next steps
• Best Places to Work event on April 22

Economic Development Authority Board

The Winona County Economic Development Authority held a regular meeting, electing Jim Vrchota as President and Ryan Grobe as Vice President, and approving the agenda and prior minutes. The board voted to charge off Envirolastech's debt and approved financial reports for October-December 2020. Discussions covered economic development priorities, with housing and childcare ranked top, and a potential workforce housing group was tabled for later.

• Elected Jim Vrchota as President (all in favor)
• Elected Ryan Grobe as Vice President (all in favor)
• Approved agenda (all in favor)
• Approved October 22, 2020 minutes (all in favor)
• Charged off Envirolastech's debt (all in favor)
• Approved financial reports for Oct-Dec 2020 (all in favor)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board is meeting to handle routine consent business, including approving appointments, grants, and a bridge construction bid, and to conduct a public hearing on the Sheriff's use of an unmanned aircraft system. The board will also decide whether to add a future agenda item discussing the use of sales tax as potential jail funding. The Community Health Board meets earlier to approve a COVID-19 contact tracing grant agreement.

• Public hearing on Sheriff's use of Unmanned Aircraft System
• Approve/Deny future agenda item on sales tax for jail funding
• Award bid for CSAH 5 and CSAH 26 bridge replacements to ICON Constructors
• Approve MDH Community Health Board Grant for COVID-19 case investigation and contact tracing
• Approve 2021-2022 SMART Grant for Sexual Assault Interagency Council

Board of Adjustment

The Winona County Board of Adjustment approved two variance petitions at its January 21, 2021 virtual meeting. The first allowed a 15-foot setback reduction for a home addition on Runaway Drive, and the second allowed a new dwelling 760 feet from a feedlot instead of the required 1,000 feet. Both approvals were unanimous and included specific conditions.

• Approved variance for Rebecca Snyder to build addition 50 ft from Runaway Drive centerline (required 65 ft) (5-0)
• Approved variance for Randolph J Erdmann to build new dwelling 760 ft from feedlot (required 1,000 ft) (5-0)
• Re-elected Robert Redig as Board of Adjustment Chair (4-1)
• Elected Jordan Potter as Vice-Chair (5-0)
• Recommended Jordan Potter as Planning Commission Liaison (5-0)
• Re-adopted Rules of Procedure (5-0)
• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved August 20, 2020 minutes (5-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Authority will hold its annual regular meeting to elect a new Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary/Treasurer for one-year terms. The board will also appoint a member and an alternate to represent the Authority on the Great River Rail Commission Joint Powers Board.

• Election of 2021 Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary/Treasurer
• Appointment of 2021 member and alternate to the Great River Rail Commission Joint Powers Board
• Approval of January 7, 2020 annual meeting minutes

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold its regular meeting on January 12, 2021, to consider consent agenda items including a driveway approach paving policy, a grant application for deer fencing at Stone Point Community Gardens, a lease for 30 S. Liberty Street, and right-of-way acquisitions for CSAH 30 and CSAH 25. General business includes appointing citizen advisory committee volunteers, making 2021 board and committee appointments, appointing AMC delegates, and reviewing the Respectful Workplace Policy. The meeting also includes a special Regional Railroad Authority meeting immediately following.

• Adopt Driveway Approach Paving Policy
• Approve application for MN Dept of Agriculture grant for Stone Point Community Gardens deer fencing
• Approve lease for 30 S. Liberty Street
• Approve resolutions to acquire right-of-way for CSAH 30 and CSAH 25
• Appoint 2021 AMC delegates and review Respectful Workplace Policy

Health & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Winona County Health and Human Services Advisory Committee will meet to approve minutes, welcome new members, and elect a chairperson. They will also receive updates on jail services, the Families First Prevention Services Act, and the county's COVID-19 response.

• Approve minutes from October 13, 2020 meeting
• Accept nominations and vote for 2021 committee chairperson
• Presentation on services available within the Winona County Jail
• Update on Families First Prevention Services Act
• Winona County COVID-19 response update

The committee approved the minutes from the October 13, 2020 meeting and unanimously elected Ruth Charles as 2021 chairperson. Members received updates on jail services, the Families First Prevention Services Act, and COVID-19, including the opening of a testing site and vaccination plans. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from October 13, 2020 meeting (unanimous)
• Elected Ruth Charles as 2021 committee chairperson (unanimous)

Winona WorkForce Development Board

The Winona County Workforce Development Board is meeting virtually to discuss routine updates and reports from member organizations, including county, city, and educational partners. The board will also review financial updates, strategic planning responses, conflict of interest forms, and RFP proposal submissions, as well as discuss open positions on state workforce boards.

• Review of RFP proposal submission and next steps
• Strategic planning responses and next steps
• Conflict of interest forms
• Finances update
• Open positions on Governor's Workforce Board and Commissioner's Roundtable-healthcare

Parks & Environment Advisory Committee

The Winona County Parks & Environment Advisory Committee is meeting on January 5, 2021. The agenda consists solely of the agenda item itself, with two attached documents: an amended parks packet and a complete packet. No specific decisions or discussion items are listed.

• Agenda item only; no specific topics listed
• Amended 1/5/2021 parks packet attached
• Complete 1/5/2021 parks packet attached

The Winona County Parks & Environment Advisory Committee met on January 5, 2021, and unanimously elected Mark Engen as Chair and Dale Hadler as Vice Chair. The committee approved the agenda and the minutes from the November 3, 2020 meeting. They voted to review the Stone Point Park plan and define a focus area at the next meeting. No substantive decisions were made on park projects or grants; updates were provided on Farmers Park and a potential deer fence grant for Stone Point community gardens, with a request to approve the grant application scheduled for the January 12, 2021 County Board agenda.

• Elected Mark Engen as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Dale Hadler as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved the meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved the November 3, 2020 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Voted to review the Stone Point Park plan and define a focus area at the next meeting (unanimous)

Winona County Board

The Winona County Board will hold its first meeting of 2021, including a swearing-in ceremony for two commissioners and the county assessor, electing a chair and vice chair, and considering a consent agenda with several health, highway, and administrative items. Key actions include approving a COVID-19 business relief fund distribution agreement with the Winona Area Chamber of Commerce, a grant agreement for COVID-19 vaccination planning, and a conditional use permit for a dwelling on less than 40 acres. The board will also discuss a respectful workplace policy and a process for gathering information on social and criminal justice services.

• Approve Minnesota COVID-19 Business Relief Fund Distribution Agreement with Winona Area Chamber of Commerce
• Approve Minnesota Department of Health Community Health Board Grant Project Agreement for COVID-19 Pandemic Vaccination Planning
• Approve Conditional Use Permit for Michael and Tamara Heim to Allow Dwelling on Less Than 40 Acres
• Approve Funding Request for Lidar Project
• Award Bid and Approve Contract for 2021 Official Newspaper