And we have a an agenda uh approval of the minutes from December 253rd 25. >> Okay. We have a motion uh made by Commissioner Eline, seconded by
Commissioner Meyer to approve the meeting minutes. Any discussion? All those in favor say I. Those nay. >> Approved. Uh chairperson's report. um nothing that's come up just as of
recently. Um it is interesting I thought though as and how our food pyramid has been flipped over. Um and I haven't really totally grasped that. I'm I'm a meat eater so I approve I appreciate uh you know meat is at the top and then it
works down to the the point is the sugary processed foods and such. And we should in my opinion also you know uh minimize the consumption of those things and use more protein and and meat and everything. But I was reminded too that
we do have food uh deserts in our our um >> Mark that's for you. Wipe your nose. >> Oh, thank you. [laughter] >> We have food pyramid uh food deserts in our society and so it's not always uh everything's not always available. Uh so
an interesting switch. Um, people should should understand what's going on. >> Well, then you don't have to resort to napkins. >> Napkins fine. >> It's a couple Kleenex. Thank you. >> A little gentler on your nose if you >> That is a season. Yeah. Um >> um temperature change from outside to inside.
>> All right. I was talking about cattle. >> Yeah. Cattle and such. It is. This warm weather is welcomed, but it it can be problematic. Um I know there'll be kids walking through Winona State campus in shorts and flip-flops. And >> a guy at the grocery store last night in shorts.
>> It's in flipflop. >> Well, he did have flip- flops on, but he had Yeah. t-shirt and shorts. >> Icing. So, be careful. >> Icing. >> Yeah, I think that's a little >> comment on that food. It's And I've been saying that for years and I put a just a message out on one of the pages and I
just said, "Hey, this is a win-win to finally recognize this that grain was designed for animals for the most part." and we run it through an animal and they convert it into some very healthy amino acids and proteins and eggs and chickens. So really the grain farmers win because it redirects some of what
they're doing. Um the dairy farmers win, the meat farmers win, the chicken farmers win, everybody that's involved in animal agriculture. So it's really neat to see that. Um it's really neat to see that they're recognizing um that that's happening. So it's I think there's a big benefit and it's gonna
it's going to affect uh American farming. So, >> okay. Good. All right. Uh, moving on. There is no consent business. Uh, general business 5.1, approve the 2025 2027 inter agency agreement cannabis regional campaign. And I did have a
question on that. Um, I don't know if Jill can clarify that. That's page uh it was page 209 and it was um uh on our board agenda it is uh 710 one >> 710
>> 11 yeah and I I just have a question is uh my question was a regional contracting service is that the one where we're uh goodw is that communications >> yes >> so what are we going to do I mean what do we have billboards around or what do we
what are we planning to do. >> I think at this point I learned about this a little bit late in the game so I apologize for that. But um basically we have to with this grant it is a requirement that we engage in cannabis
education and prevention. Therefore uh it as a part of the grant this would meet that requirement. Um it at at this level it is cost effective to do this with a group of counties particularly when you're talking about community
education and those types of communications because the contract party is going to be doing a a large volume of the work around that. So, it's going to be specific to cannabis education and it's going to be preventative in nature. And
the dollar amount that we have been uh that we would be contributing is in association with the volume of population compared to the other counties. >> Yes. >> 5,000. >> I just can't get past the hypocrisy in this situation. H how does one legalize
it but then and pay to legalize it because it's costing us money to do that as taxpayers and then turn around and have a group for a prevention >> and how do you even how can you even sit justified in a room and come up with a program that says hey don't go do
something that we just made legal and it's like I'm paying for it and I'm paying against it plus we have the double standard I mean how how do you even go into a group of people and say this is a bad thing because when they turn 18, it doesn't change whether it's good or bad. Smoking, drugs, marijuana. I'm not
saying I'm not advocating either way. I'm just looking at the hypocrisy. How does one do that? >> Well, I think the reality is we provide factual information and educate in terms of the impact of cannabis on one's body. And in the same way that people have
choices about sub other substances including alcohol in our state, you know, that's just uh something that they can choose at a certain age. And I don't have influence over what was approved and how it was approved. >> No, no, I know. But I have a genuine
question like how can you say, you know, alcohol with the exception of prohibition has always been allowed, right? So we've got a different take on that. But here we had a standard that said, hey, this is probably not good for you. we've said now it is good for you but oh by the way still don't go do it >> that I think is the difference so we can
nod our heads and say yeah we have this standard other places but we had a unique situation that we've self-created you know what I mean and we we we threw ourselves into the same boat now why did we do that and how do we go out and teach the hypocal the hypocrisy of that
I mean I just genuinely curious like if I had to do it I will I don't know what I would say you know >> I guess I would focus on the the facts about how the substance impacts indiv ividuals in what it does to your body and that piece and how it influences the use of other substances potentially. I
think a focus is how do we keep it out of the hands of young people as well and really educate in that regard. So that would be my personal choice on how to focus on >> under the age type stuff >> that piece and just what it does to your
brain and your body and what you know just that kind of information so to speak. Commissioner, >> well, it wasn't the bottom line just to collect taxes, right? >> It's money. >> Yeah. I mean, come on. >> Y >> that's why it's costing us more.
We've already said that we're it's actually costing us more than what we're collecting. >> I must admit when it was approved, I didn't even live here. So, the reality is have all of that history. >> So, um uh you know, so that's just a piece that I I'm not aware of the
politics as to why they did it at what time. Now, this was totally a state grant. We're not putting any local levy dollars or anything into it and such. So, it's it's >> No, I just my question isn't is there what I just genuinely >> Yeah. >> How do you get over the hypocrisy?
>> Sure. Well, >> I can I understand your questions. >> You're totally a bunch of hypocrites in in policies and everything. Look at opioids in case opioids they were prescribed as a pain. Look at what the mess that they've created. And this is probably going down that same path in a
way because we have medical marijuana that does good things for some people. >> Yeah. No, I don't disagree with that. >> Commissioner Vagely, >> um, I'll move to approve item 5.1. >> I'll second. [clears throat] >> Not meant to not meant to end con discussion, but just one step closer. Okay.
>> All right. We have a motion to approve the inter agency agreement uh, cannabis regional campaign. Commissioner Vagely, second by Commissioner Meyer. Um, further discussion. I'll just say I like it that we're coordinating it with regional with counties across the region.
>> Yeah. And it'll be and I'm sure we'll get an update as to what we're going to be doing. >> We can't even we're they're kind of waiting on us because of my not being aware of it and they can't hire the subcontractor consultants until we approve.
>> And I had a concern. I asked um Miss Holy about the amount. This is the exact amount that's allocated for the opioid fund. And I and I was told that it's a different, no pun intended, a different pot of money. Um, [laughter] >> a good one. >> Um, and my concern was we hadn't had the
discussion about possibly some kind of amount possibly for Ripple, etc. So, I didn't want to have this and then prelude the possibility of working with Ripple, but this is a different source of money. So, >> were you thinking it was going to be a higher amount? [clears throat] >> Should we go on?
>> Okay. Well, we want it duly noted that we I think we think it's kind of hypocritical and we're concerned of what the message is going to be. Um, and you know, you talk about trying to reach the young people. The young people are on a I hope they have some smart people that
understand young people and how they communicate and how they take in information. Um, because today's camp yesterday's campaign of Nancy Reagan saying just say no to drugs would not work with this young with the young population. So I'm hoping um some
oversight will be taken and maybe even some uh focus groups of what are you how will you reach young people to say don't you know experiment with this or or don't do it. I don't I don't have any >> the good news is substance use for young people is down. >> Oh that's good.
>> It's it's it is very you know young people are not using alcohol or other substances to the degree they they were prior. >> I've got a little caveat to substance use. So my cousin, I talked with him yesterday. He's on a heart transplant list at Mayo Clinic. Lives on the other side of the state, 51 years old, born with a hole in his heart. One of the
nicest guys you'll ever meet. So yesterday he came over to my one of my locations and he was sitting there. When I got back, it was in Wisconsin. And I said, "Hey, what are you doing?" It was it was his mom. His mom's 78. And you know, he's known since he was a little kid that at some point he was
going to outlive his heart, right? So, he's dealt going to Mayo Clinic multiple times for the last 47, eight years since they found it when he was a little kid. And he said, "Here's what's really interesting." He said, "Years ago, I used to have two hours." They said, "If I got to the point that I needed to be
on the heart transplant list, I just had to live here. They had to move over here." Now, they've got it up to four hours. They give them four hours to get to Mayo Clinic, and it's three and a half hours with a pack bag to get there. So, they're good, right? But here's the most interesting thing he said.
You want to tell me things are working in the drug world? His heart surgeon, the heart replacement surgeon that he's working with for how many years said, Jonathan, he said, I got good news and I got bad news. He said, the good news is is I think we can find you a heart within a year. The bad news is is he
said, I can't guarantee that like I used to. And he said, why is that? He said, the amount of Anybody guess where most of the hearts they were getting from what types of people in the last two to four years especially? Oh, >> they're all fentanyl overdoses. >> Oh, gotcha.
>> Now, they can clean up a heart that even has AIDS and put an AIDS heart in you. Okay. But he said in the last three months, the amount of fentanyl overdoses in the United States that we can get a heart from has bas basically vanished. They cannot get fentanyl heart
overdoses. >> Oh, because we're not >> because of how this war on drugs, he said. And he said, so the good thing is is the public is winning. The bad thing is is heart transplants people >> losing >> were losing >> and I thought that is a shocking statistic right out of a heart surgeon
out of nail clinic. >> So what a wonderful thing for >> I guess our nation right now. >> Okay. All right. We have a motion and a second. All those in favor say I. >> I post nay. Okay. Approved. Uh and then uh Jill, you've got your presentation
about public health responsibilities. >> Yes. Excellent. Take it away. Thank you. Um, I think Heidi's going to put it up on the the presentation up uh in any I'll just get started. I want to first thank Jackie Henderson. She developed the presentation that I'm going to be
talking about today. This is her area of expertise. So, I may at times look to you, Jackie, and uh I appreciate what you put into it. We're going to talk just a little bit. This is just a basic overview. I don't do well reading slides. Not my deal. So, we'll [laughter] we'll kind of just go through
the this is the basics of >> and we're all over the age that we were taught how to read. >> Oh, yeah. Exactly. >> Young people, I don't know that they can read. [laughter] >> Put it up there in cursive and you'll stop. >> All right. So, if you go to the next slide, please. This is where we start
getting into a little bit of the detail of what was what is public health and where did it start? What was the history of it? And it is a population-based and a prevention focused methodology or or department so to speak and it is
around the science of protecting and improving the health of health of general people in our communities. And so that's like the big big way uh large picture if you could change the slides. Uh so you can see here that it consists
of about 70 public health departments which are organized into 52 community health boards. The community health board is what drives the um various public health departments and there because we have I believe 82 counties in
or 87 counties in Minnesota. Um some of them do group together out of efficiency. Some of them are pretty rural and so you might see that's why that's why we have less public health departments and community health boards than we do counties.
Uh next slide please. The first one, this is really kind of intriguing about Wisconsin. The first one was developed in Redwing. Redwing was the first uh state board of health and that was established in 1872.
And so the state really encouraged the formation of local boards to really think about what do you need locally whatever I think I was talking about this with someone the other day the United States is pretty young as a country and so this was more of a new
concept as we were moving through this process and then from the 1900s to 1940 we were looking at what roles should the local government have and what are those so they are to assess the community health, control disease, and ensure
sanitary conditions is what we started with in 1900 to 1940. I think something that we still do today are the community health improvement projects and the in in conjunction with the state health improvement projects. Those are still happening today. That first bullet very
very much so. That's where you see it. If you look at 1940 to 1970, that's when we started seeing more of the health education and disease prevention along with maternal and child health and restaurant inspections. And so we have a
few things that come have come into play as we've moved forward. In 1976, this is when the first community health services act took place. And this was really to clarify the roles between the local community health boards in the state.
Really trying to understand what is the responsibility of each party and how do they fit together. They also wanted to promote collaboration and enable community health boards to serve larger populations as populations were growing in the country and they're seeing in how
do we manage this because it's not what we first started and what it first looked like when we established it in 1872 and they really wanted to make community health boards eligible for state funding. And that's something that we're talking about today, right? We've already talked about the cannabis grant
and some of those things. what funding goes along with some of those pieces. And then from 1987 and and again in 2003 we really looked at and there was some changes around the local public health act which is now called and you'll see
that in various groups as we meet and have conversations really emphasizing accountability planning and assessment state and local partnerships and that oversight by the commissioner of the health and that is happening at the state level in Minnesota. And then those
are the pieces that are often shared between all parties. And then if we look at things today, we have um a stronger state and local partnership known as the community health services system. And so really it's the foundation for all of the
public health efforts that are are occurring and they include the goals and the flexibility and the collaboration and they are the legal governing authorities. And so a lot of this I think Jackie shared with me that she received it and got it from the website of the Minnesota Department of Health. I
want to pause if there are any questions before I continue. >> No questions. Just a time check, Joe. I have about 12 slides and 11 minutes left. >> Okay, pick up. You think I can talk any faster? >> No, I'm just [laughter] >> I'll give it a shot. The one thing I have noticed over my tenure though is
and I don't know if it's the most efficient way to run the health department is that the commissioner of health is always a political appointee and they come and they go fairly fast and then the emphasis they come in with an agenda and which is normal and then the emphasis keeps cha keep changing and
such. So I don't know if if some of these commissioners should just be you know hired and fired the best person for the job or not but that's not my decision. >> Yeah. And I think that's a great example of some of the challenges with the current structure and maybe that's an area that you think about how do we
advocate around that or how do we manage that or do it differently and bring that up to folks. >> Um so this slide just talks about some of the detail of some of the things that I just re reviewed and really looks at the oversight of the statewide system to the commissioner of health and then the
community health boards. One of the things that um the next slide please um really is the governing authority for the local public health. It is the statutory responsibility and it's this group and so that's why we bring items
around public health to this group because you function as that entity. And so really that is a major role that you play in this process and that's where we bring you the community health assessment and the community health needs being prioritized and some of
those things as well. And this is the structure. If we could turn to the next slide. It provides guidance on forming the community health board. So these are the types of boards that we have. We have 30 that are single county which is us. Um there's 17 that
are multicounty and five that are statutoily or city-based and those were established probably because of the population of that community and how that works. Um and so we have community next slide please. Uh the health services administrator and a medical
consultant are part of this group as well. CHBs may appoint an advisory committee which you do have. We have the health and human services advisory committee and that functions is for both health and human services and public health. We recently divided into two
work groups in addition to one meeting where that advisory group comes together. And so that is something that we have and members of the CHB are either elected themselves or appointed. Now this is where it comes into if we go to the next slide please Heidi. um the
six core areas of public health responsibility. This is an area of complexity and I have trying to learn it myself. It's an area where in which we talk about there are things we need to do as a public health
department and we need to do them in the best way possible. Money comes down to us from the state in order to do some of these things, but they're not always aligned specifically with programs. So that creates some confusion sometimes for folks. But basically what they want
to do is assure an adequate public health infrastructure, promote health communities, prevent the spread of de disease, protect against environmental hazards. And I want to acknowledge that Ross' environmental area is is can be at times utilized as part of our public
health. Um prepare and respond to emergencies. That is done collaboratively with folks at the county sheriff's department as well. and assure health services and identify those barriers to those health services. All right. So this is the framework the
next slide please. This is the framework for the um foundational public health responsibilities. There is a grant that we received specific to foundational public health responsibilities. And so this talks a little bit about the
assessment, surveillance, county partnership, equity, those eight areas that are foundational capabilities, I should say, and then the areas are the five that are named above that we need to focus on. Um, part of me wishes it was a little more straightforward, but I
think the flexibility is specifically intentional because your local area can decide some of these things. How do we do this? How do we want to focus on things? and how do we move the book? Next slide, please.
So, [clears throat] this is um and I love the analogy that Jackie put together for this, the public health. You build a house with a foundation, right? When you got cracks in your foundation, problems with your foundation, that's when you have some real challenges. But, uh there are five
foundational areas or rooms that every must everyone must have and they're listed here. Um I'm sure Heidi's working on that. and she's got going on, but they are basically communicable disease control, chronic disease and early prevention, maternal child and family
health, access and linkage to clinical care in environmental public health. So, um those are the foundational priorities that we have or areas that we need to focus on. If you go to the next slide,
um so the next one is the the public health house and capabilities. So there are eight capabilities which outline skills that we need to have in order to administer and provide public health services in our department. And these
are structural supports that what you know keep the house going so to speak. And so what you're looking for is we have to keep assessing the community. What are the needs in the community? We need to develop policy and and provide support to that policy. and we have to create community partnerships which
you're seeing with Winona Health and others. And so um then you have organizational competencies uh that we're trying to to develop and accountability and performance management with each of those grant contracts and communications. So I think
the one we talked about this morning very much aligns with the communications aspect of things. pause. >> Okay. >> Sorry. Good thing I'm loud. [laughter] Okay. So, the next slide is the public
health house. Again, the community specific priorities. This is where you all come in. We want to, you know, utilize our public health board to look at those priorities. And in Winona County, we provide family home visiting, which is voluntary uh service. We
provide uh parents and caregivers of young children some education and some support. Home visiting staff offer a range of supports tailored to the family's needs. So we really try to target those things. Um community specific are customized and so we really
want to balance one thing you're going to see a lot of which I think is very positive that people say gosh why hasn't that always been? Um, but mental health and substance use and and some of the public health concepts are newer, even newer than, you know, or they've changed
so much and we have so much more evidence that demonstrates how to treat people and how to engage. And so, we're always trying to balance the evidence-based priority and local needs. And how do we do that? How do we keep
that balance in a healthy way? Next slide, please. In 2016, 19, 22, and 25, we've had that community health assessment or the and that resulted in the community health improvement plan. Uh you'll hear it
referred to as CHIP. And then there's the state health improvement plan that you're going to hear referred to as SHIP. Okay? So those two, you know, our community one is the one we decide on and we get the data, we look at the information, we might do focus groups, there's a variety of ways and we do that
in partnership with a variety of entities throughout the community. So we work with others uh including the opioid committee, the HHS advisory committee and the mental health collaborative in order to do that assessment and look at those options.
Um, another good example of a foundational capability is uh the next slide please. Um, community partnership development. We really have I have seen and actually I've been very impressed by this the degree to which Winona County
has great relationships with various entities and coming to the county and not having lived here. It's a gift and I really it's it's a wonder. It's something that not every county has and I think that's a huge positive um as we
move forward and think about our needs. But that ongoing relationship building and outreach around immunization or education in the Amish communities, the community health uh community engagement sessions, uh the wick clinic promoted through St. Charles. We have an outreach
wick clinic in St. Charles. Those are all things that I think are not possible without that collaboration that we experience throughout the county. And we want to create, convene, support, and sustain strategic and non-program
specific relationships with partners because things change. You know, as we talked about, um certainly uh alcohol use was higher with young people before. We're going to have a different outreach then than we have today. So, we want to have the flexibility. Another example of
foundational capability is communications. Next slide. Um, we want to tailor the messages and communication for various audiences. And this is where that specialty area comes in of that grant that we talked about this morning and use social media and
other platforms to communicate and engage directly with the community and share community resources. So really having the expertise of knowing how to do, as you said, Commissioner Ward, how do we do the right outreach? How do we ensure that we're reaching folks? That's
why we're looking for a subcontracted expert in that regard because it's certainly not something that other than my own children, it's not going to be my expertise. And so, um, that's a a big piece of things. So, and that concludes our discussion. And I want to entertain
questions and ask Jackie what did I miss in such a qu quick way that I went through things while she's coming to the podium. One of the biggest things I have when I go to the the uh shack meetings is that public health works on all these little grants.
It's a grant for this, a grant for that and there's reporting and there's time taken to administer and everything. just give us a chunk of money and as they as they say in part of their thing that they want local control that they want the locals to determine what they need.
So then just give us the one check and we'll figure it out. But I'll keep spreading that message. >> Yes, please. >> Um so one thing I'd like to point out back to that public health house analogy is that public health houses need to exist in every community. and why we
talked about the structure of those houses and how they have five rooms. Um, every public health house should have the infrastructure to support the community health needs. Um, and so the goal of pretty much presenting that analogy was to show how as long as these
public health houses and these services are existing within every community, regardless of where somebody lives in Minnesota, they have access to services. Um, I'd also like to just point out um a little bit more about structuring community health boards. And in my research, I looked at a bunch of
different counties. How do they structure it? Handful of counties are they take the county commissioners, elected officials serve as the community health board members. But there's also a lot of counties that have one or two elected officials and then appoint um public health experts, medical
practitioners um that allow the whole community health board to really like be effective in creating the right decisions, making those right decisions based on their expertise. So um I'd be happy to go further on that at a future meeting, but
um think intentionally about the structure of things. >> Sure. >> Yes. Thank you. >> Thanks, Jackie. >> Okay. being time. I guess we'll we'll end there. But uh that goes to point though because we will be making some appointments to our uh community health
and and human service board is to have uh professionals in the medical and the health field to be on those boards because we sit here and I don't think anybody has a degree in health or anything. I know how to give shots to sheep but um about any
>> I can't do that. [laughter] But u still animal agriculture but it's something to that I've always thought odd >> one quick comment and then I'll motion to adjourn. Um the only thing I see and this is not being directly involved and I'll I'll just compare it to the water
boards that I've sat on for many many years. My fear is that we get so many boards like we saw in the water side that nobody knows what anybody's doing and then it just gets staffed and money gets thrown at it and it just gets this before you know it it's got to come back
together. So everybody that sits on thank you for what you're doing but keep that in mind because that tends to be what happens in government and just so know every because even with the best intentions the communication falls apart because there's just too much to keep track of. So >> yes >> with that motion to adj.
>> I'll second that. We have a motion by Commissioner Heling, seconded by Commissioner Vagely to adjurnn. Any discussion? All those in favor say I. Post nay. We'rejourn. Uh it being nine uh 9:02 by my computer. Uh please join us in the pledge of allegiance to open
our county board meeting. >> I aliance and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. Good morning everybody.
Beautiful January, believe it or not, January 13th and it's going to be 40 degrees out. So please be careful because it still is slip and fall season. There may be little patches of ice here and there. So please be careful. We don't need anybody to get physically hurt. Um we start our meeting
uh January uh with um 2.2 two is the election of chair and vice chair and I technically I don't know do uh I run this or Miss Holty do you >> you >> okay all right so we have uh we're accepting nominations for chair
>> just a question before yes nominations are we still working in a rotation I know we've done that in the past >> no this board has never accepted the idea of a a >> method to work sort of methodology method >> no we've always
>> unfortunat un unfortunately I have advocated for that >> would continue to advocate for that but it has not been accepted >> so um commissioner vaguely >> um I'll make a comment and then a motion um if I am fortunate enough as a result
of the November elections to be here next January and I might not be I would be interested in whoever the chair is this year rotating the two members I don't know if you're ever interested commissioner etc or commissioner ward again etc but I want to Make a motion to nominate Chris Meyer to be the board for
2026. >> Okay. >> The board chair. >> We have a motion. >> I'll second that. >> We have a motion for Chris Meyer made by Commissioner Vaguely, seconded by Commissioner Olsen. Do we have any further nominations?
>> Well, I was. >> Yes, >> I know. Uh, I was looking at the rotation and I'm obviously the newest one on here even though it's my second term, but Greg, have you, Commissioner Olsson, have you ever been board chair yet? >> No desire. >> No desire to do it. Okay.
>> Do you have a future desire? >> Yeah. >> Myself? >> Yeah. I mean, I could I could step in at any point if somebody wanted me to. And, you know, if Commissioner Ry wants to take it this year and perhaps next year, you know, whatever that might be. It's it's >> it's a [clears throat] role somebody has to do. >> Would you be willing to be vice chair?
Yeah, I could be vice chair. That's fine. Like speak ahead. >> I'm sorry. Go ahead. >> No, I would love to speak last um uh a 50 vote for whatever combination this year and a 50 vote next year, etc. And I'd be very willing to nominate if you're Commissioner Olson.
>> I would like to nominate Commissioner Olsen because I think it's not a not a that you desire to do it or anything. I think it's part of our responsibility to be chair and and take on the responsibility. those of us that are working full-time jobs. It's also just >> No, don't give me that as an excuse. You
you you signed up for this job knowing the responsibilities and you're taking the paycheck like all the rest of us to do this job and do it responsibly. So, I would I would like to nominate Commissioner Olsen to take a turn at chair of the Winona County Board. Do I
have a second? >> Well, just in rotation was what I was looking at. I mean I can second it just on principle but you know I think either one would work just fine you know so I can second that if we want to put a second person on the motion. >> Okay. So is this discussion leading to a
an established uh rotation pattern or is it still a >> in the past process of >> the pass in the past we haven't done that right >> I'd be open speaking for myself only if I'm still here next January um I would gladly vote for a different I believe we
should rotate those who feel like they have the time and the ability to commit to it etc. >> Okay. I think we should vote on the first motion and then that fails then we go. >> Well, the nominations are still open. So, um I believe but did uh having
Commissioner Olsen serve as a chair get a second? I didn't hear a second. >> Yeah, I seconded it just under principal overation. >> All right. So, we have two nominations for chair now. Do you want to close the nominations and receive the >> close the nominations? I'll second. We have a motion by Commissioner Vaguely,
second by Commissioner Eling to close nominations and proceed with a vote. All those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Nay. Okay. Okay. Now we proceed to a vote. Uh, all those voting for Commissioner Meyer say I. >> I. >> What did I hear?
>> I can't really go. Now I got to go against it because I voted for this. >> I don't think you can vote. Second. It's just the mot the the original motion cannot vote against their motion. >> I can't vote against that now. So, >> okay. So, did I hear three? Yes. 32.
>> Okay. Uh and Commissioner Olsen I [clears throat] >> I >> Okay. Nay. >> Nay. >> That that fa that motion fails. So uh [clears throat] uh technically I think we have to
>> so for clarification for the vote for Meyer it was 32 who were the two nosails. >> Thank you. >> Okay. So I guess >> only because I second the other I got a second. >> So I guess Commissioner Meyer you are new chair.
>> We'll rotate here. >> Take my take my ammo. Yeah, I we could probably switch ammo if you want. >> We all have our own ammo. >> Yeah, we do have our own ammo, but they're not like >> I'm going to have to make a second trip.
Yes. Yes. Oh, yeah. Guess we have to switch to that thing. And Oh, yeah. I got my junk under here. Okay. Yes, >> you need to sign up for the
>> contracts. >> And be careful of that auto pen. >> The auto pen. [laughter] I People do send things that have not been >> Well, I know I don't do I always ask Heidi if I don't really know. >> Just so people know, we sign a lot of contracts with an auto pen. I think people know what an autopen is. say
docuign. >> Yeah. And there are people that send contracts through that have not been approved by the board. So you just have to be really careful what you're signing. So >> I always ask Heidi because she knows,
>> right? >> She's the keeper of the auto page. >> I'm sorry. Now we're on to this uh second election of vice chair. >> I'll move to nominate Commissioner Elsen as the vice chair. >> I'll second it. Are there any other nominations? I'm going to ask two more times. Are
there any other nominations? >> And for the last time, are there any other nominations for vice chair? Hearing none will be in order to close nominations. >> I'll move for closing nominations. >> Second. >> Okay. Uh any discussion on the closing
of nominations and hearing none, all those in favor say I. >> I. Anyone opposed? Okay, nominations are closed. Uh, anyone want to give a speech? >> First, >> right after you. Right after you give a speech. >> Congratulations.
>> I just want to say thank you for being the board chair this past year. It, you know, board chair is is an important role, but it also is we're we are a board. We're five equal members on a board. So, no no uh board chair has any more authority or voice or power than than anyone else. So, um, we are,
>> but you do have to go to extra meetings and I appreciate your willingness to do that. >> Uh, yeah. And and do some representations. >> And I also like to thank Commissioner Ward for being the board chair this past year as well. And thank you, Commissioner Meer, Commissioner Eling for being the chair and vice chair. >> Okay. All right.
>> Need to vote. >> Yeah, we do need to vote. Yeah. >> Uh, so all those in favor of uh electing Commissioner Eling as the vice chair, >> I >> Is anyone opposed? No. Did we vote? [laughter] >> You said yes earlier. So >> this kid,
>> that was 50. >> Yeah, that was 50. >> All right. The next item on our agenda is public comment. Um and usually we allow just 10 minutes. There's a lot of people online. I don't know if any are um going to want to participate in
public comment, but I'm hoping that we can keep everyone's comments to just the two minutes so that we can get through all of the public comments. >> Can I just make a quick comment? >> Yeah, please. I was just going to mention on the gun issue that we will have a discussion on that later on and
that discussion is, you know, is the open side of what's coming up here. So, um, and that we're not making any I don't believe to be we're going to be making anything today. It's just a topic of discussion is all it is. Bringing it back up because we had postponed it until after the first of the year.
That's all that's happening today just to set anybody at ease. >> Mr. Baker, >> adding what Commissioner Alson said. We're not going to make any final bindings. uh it'll be in the committee, the board, our work session. We may decide to move it to a general business meeting and have a public hearing. But I
mean, people are still very welcome to share their thoughts just so people in the audience and people at home know, we're not going to make no binding bones to >> correct. This it's just >> the shotgun. >> The procedural aspect of getting it to a decision base is just part of what's happening. >> Right. And I have indicated to people
both in email and in phone that I thought our intent was from previous discussions that we would set a date for a public hearing and and that that is my intention today. It's basically to just set a a right because I haven't I
haven't put together any information >> and I Mr. Dunore who's the director of planning environmental services is here. question that I have just to clarify this. If we were going to make any kind of a zoning ordinance change, let's say to revert to the shotgun only rules, this would have to go through our
regular process. So would it go through the planning commission? There would have to be at least one public hearing there. So no action it like happens for a number of months, >> correct? It would need to go through planning commission prior and they would need to hold a public hearing. So they
would need to review the language. We need we would also need to prepare the language for the review. Uh so it would be an extended process >> and we'll go through this in the committee of the board when we get to that point. >> Yeah. So correct. >> Yeah. So people are welcome to speak today but no action would happen without
a very much more formal process for public input. >> This is a discussion. >> Um but hold on. Um if we elect to follow state law, >> we don't have to do anything. >> No. >> Correct. It's only if we decide to restrict
um Winona County to a a lesser degree than state laws. >> Although some commissioners have said they would like to have a public hearing anyway. >> Yes. >> Right. >> Yeah. >> I think it's fair to the committee. >> Okay. >> So, we will talk about this later. Anyway, so now with that, I would like to open the public comment period. Would anyone who likes to share some thoughts
with the Winona County Board please come to the podium, tell us your name and your address, and then share your thoughts with us for up to two minutes. I will ask several times. Please, yeah, come on ahead.
>> I I got uh James Door and Hart Township. Um I've hunted Winona County now since for the last 32 years, but uh I grew up in southwest Wisconsin where we had rifle use. Uh started with the rifle and deer hunting and very similar
topography, very similar culture, you know. I mean, it didn't really have an impact on anything as far as safety or any of that. that it doesn't really have any any uh any impact. But the big thing is it just allows people that freedom of of choice what they want to use. You know, I'm all of the rifle calibers are
currently legal in Winona County in a pistol formation. You know, I hunt with an AR pistol often with a pistol brace, which is very similar to a AR rifle. Same same mechanism, just a different stock. But, uh anyway, all these calibers are already in use in the county. I mean, I think that's the big
thing we need to keep in mind. It's uh it hasn't been a safety factor so far. Obviously, you get a long gun, you have a lot more security with the weapon and handling of the weapon. So, it is safer and than a pistol formulation, you know, where it can be easily brought off target and stuff by inexperienced
hunters. But, uh overall, like I say, I don't I don't think it's a safety issue. uh some of the concerns I've heard raised about it, you know, surrounded around the idea of poaching and stuff, but the reality is if someone's going to break the law to go out at night with a light and poach, they still got to work within the limits of their light and and
I don't think a rifle is going to have any meaningful impact in that regard as well. Plus, they're just as loud as anything else, you know. So, I mean, it's not like it's going to impact that. But, uh anyway, I just think it's just a matter of personal preference. And, you know, I have a dusty old 270 that only goes out west elk hunting now. I
wouldn't mind getting that out for the deer season. So anyway, >> let you shoot my 300 weather vag. [laughter] >> Thank you. Um, are there other folks who want to share their thoughts with us? >> Hi. >> Hi. I'm Leo Hazelton. Live in Winona.
Uh, all I want to put in is that I'm 78. I've hunted Minnesota all my life and I hunt up north now because I'm not allowed to use a rifle down here. I do I did hunt down here with a pistol, which makes no sense to me why it's an issue
because the same calibers are being used now in a pistol that are going to be used maybe in a long rifle. People say that it's not safe. Any day that you go out and look in the country, you're
going to see people using rifles hunting predators. So in reality, the DNR in Minnesota allows hunting with a rifle. The state legislature decided that we could hunt with it. Now, there are
people that never going to be happy with change, and there are people like me that hate to be held back for something you've always wanted to do. So, I know the board has a tough decision, but as far as safety, that's I don't feel any safer with shotguns out there than
rifles because when they make drives, this group's pushing towards the other group and they're shooting back at each other and anybody says that's safe is got a different thought than mine. So, I would just like to say that I would appreciate and I appreciate the time to talk to you, but I would like to hunt
with a rifle before I kick off. So, thank you. Um, if there's other folks in the audience that would like to uh share their thoughts with us, please step forward to the mic. Um, so do people have to text Heidi to get unmuted or can they unmute themselves?
>> I think they raise their hand. >> Okay. So, if you are online and you would like to be speaking in public comment, please there's a actions button at the bottom of the screen. raise your hand and uh our administrative uh person
will unmute you so you could speak. >> I I'll give that a couple seconds. Um is there anyone else in the room that would like to speak during public comment >> on any issue? >> Yeah, on anything, not just this. Yeah. >> Where's that massive screen? >> It's underneath the two-minute, >> but she can see it.
>> Heidi can see it. >> Okay. So, for the third and final time, is there anyone in the room or online that would like to participate in public comment? And hearing none, I'm going to close the public comment period. The next item on the agenda is approval
of the county board minutes from December 23rd of last year. >> I'll move to approve item 4.1. Second. >> Commissioner Vagley has moved. Commissioner Sing has seconded approval of the county board minutes from December 23rd. Any discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor, please
signify by saying I. >> I. >> I. >> Is anyone opposed? Motion carries. >> The next agenda item involves the receipt of two approved committee minutes. Um 51 is the board of adjustment from the 20th of November and
52 is the planning commission from the same date. >> So move. >> I'll second that. >> Commissioner Elsing moves. Commissioner Vegley seconds approval of those committee minutes. Is there any further discussion? Hearing none. All those uh in favor of approval, please signify by saying I. I.
>> I. If anyone is opposed, please say nay. >> Motion carries. Next item is consent and approval of agenda. Um county attorney Son, do you have any adjustments to the agenda? >> I do not. >> Okay. Commissioner vaguely >> comment at the end of the meeting,
please. >> Uh comment at 7:18, please. >> And you want to pull 718? >> Correct. which is the feed lot work plan. And um we can maybe make that 8.0 one putting
it at the head of general business. Um Commissioner Olsson, >> nothing for me. >> Commissioner Ward. >> Well, I have a long list. Um and I apologize. Um Miss Holy attempted to answer my questions and I don't know if you did were able to this morning.
>> No, not this morning. Last night I did. >> Okay. So, let me u I'm trying to um refine my list. I would like a little more discussion on 7.4. >> 74 is the uh joint powers agreement on the contract for the law enforcement
center with the city of Winona. We make that 8.02. >> And um see um some of some of the others I hope we get clarification um although we are approving them. Um,
and I know Miss Holty will will give me uh answers. 718 was pulled. Yep. Um, under under the uh expenses, I guess, uh, from a process. I have a bunch of questions on the warrant, you know, the dispersement, uh, payment of dispersements. >> 723.
>> Yeah, 723. So, let's let's pull that one. The others I hopefully will get, um, >> we'll make that 803. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Okay. And then I do have a announcement and a comment at the end and a a board request for board action. >> An announcement, a request for board action and a comment.
>> Yes, please. >> And anything else that comes up? >> Thank you. >> Uh um Administrator Holy, do you have any adjustments to that? >> Nothing, Madam Chair. >> Okay. Um so we have had some adjustments to the agenda and I would be in order for >> to approve the amended agenda.
>> Okay. Commissioner Ward moves to approve the amended agenda. I'll second. >> Commissioner Elsing seconds that. Any discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor, please signify by saying I. >> I. >> If anyone is opposed, please say no. Okay. The agenda is approved. Next order
is consent comments. Commission. Uh, Administrator Holton, could you read our consent business for the record? >> Absolutely. 7.1 Approve conditional use permit for Todd and Sheila Y. Miller. 7.2 2 approve conditional use permit for
CMDM Winona LLC. 7.3 Award bid and approved contract with Winona Post for 2026 official newspaper. 7.4 was pulled. 7.5 Approve service level agreement for revenue recapture finance department.
7.6 Approve service level agreement for revenue recapture auditor treasure. 7.7 approve LG220 gambling application for exempt permit Bluff Country chapter of Minnesota Deer Hunters Association. 7.8 Approve renewal
of 2026 2027 inter agency co-op agreement for administration of child support establishment of paternity and medical support liability programs. 7.9 Approve renewal of purchase of service agreement with Lutheran Social
Services of Minnesota for guardian conservator services. 7.10 approve 2025 to 2027 inter agency agreement with cannabis regional campaign. 7.11 approve renewal of inter agency agreement with
region 10 contracting services to clarify roles and responsibil I'm sorry roles and services provided by participating counties 7.12 approve partners and excellence contract for child welfare targeted case management
7.13 appoint authority board of commissioners 7.14 designate publication of transportation projects on county website. 7.15 approved memorandum of agreement with askme 65 assistant county attorneys.
7.16 approved memorandum of agreement with local 49ers. 7.17 approve agreement with McGrath human resources group for classification and compensation study. 7.18 was pulled. 7.19 approve 2026 solid
waste collection and transportation license for harder disposal of Minnesota LLC. 7.20 approve agreement with Hopox for e-recording. 7.21 approve 2026 2027 state of
Minnesota snowmobile safety grant. 7.22 approve 2026 2027 state of Minnesota offhighway vehicle safety grant. And 7.2 23 was pulled. >> I move to approve the consent items. >> Second.
>> Okay. Commissioner Begley has moved to approve the consent business as it was read. Commissioner Olsson has seconded. Is there any further discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor, please signify by saying I. >> I. If anyone's opposed, please say nay. >> Consent agenda is passed. We move on to
general business. The first item is going to be uh 8.01, 01 which used to be 7.18 which is approval. No, I apologize. >> That's a feed lot feed lot. >> Yep. Oh, it is the feed lot one. So, yeah. All right. So, it is the Winona
County feed lot agreement and work plan for 2026 through 2029. >> Position. >> Yes. >> Um, no. So, I just, you know, I wanted to and I appre appreciate Commissioner Ward pulled a few other ones that I looked at too and um so there was a
couple other ones, but um you know, obviously this is going to you know, affect Commissioner Ward and I the most what's happening in the countryside. So, um I just wanted to pull it under a couple pretenses. So, just to really understand we we kind of had a shift in
in oversight, right, with a new person coming into play. How is this going? What do we deem the roles? Nothing against our current um um feed lot officer, but is it still necessary? How are things going? We we get
feedback, you know, of everything from is it necessary? Can we turn it over to the state to Yep, this is good. Um fill me in. What's your what do you got going on? I mean, this is a big part of our community. So yeah, >> um Brian might be able to speak to some
of the specifics more, but essentially the the it has been a carry forward program as far as the the the board in the past established that the desire to regulate feed lots to a to an extent
beyond what the state regulates them. So, uh, that that's kind of the fundamental of the program and which is why Winona County continues to take delegation and and operate the feed lot program.
Um, so I'm trying to figure out exactly if if there's a specific concern that we can address or >> Well, um, thank you um, Madam Chair. Specifically, we just at our last
meeting or two, we gave away a grant to do the manure management plants and soil and water is always looking for they're always looking for more money. I don't know if they're necessarily looking for more work, but they're always looking for more money. So, we gave them more money to do that job. And I I guess in
the past I feel that's a big part of what our feed officer was doing was working with all producers because that's both big and small that are supposed to have these manure management plans and if we just gave that away what are we doing and we spend Okay, so we do
get a grant of 39,000 from the state but um I'm told you know we're actually levying about um and I think is that additional 68,000 um in your quick and I apologize. I I had a lot of questions. Um your answer, Miss Holty, was I said, "How do we get
this function back?" State um 68,319 is the levy amount. So, is that on top of the 39,000 that we get for the grant? I'm assuming it is. >> Yes. >> Yeah. So, it's it's a it's not an inexpensive uh you know, function. And
I'm just wondering if we're getting enough for our you know, um dollars with the variety of producers. And I've had producers say, "Hey, I don't deal with local um I just deal with this the state of Minnesota." And do we really have any
um authority? Anything we do, don't we have to any kind of punitive or corrections? Don't we have to run to the state to get them to enforce uh their rules and laws? I mean, do we have different rules and laws at a at a county level that that we enforce or
imply? the the state regulated uh levels are I believe it's a thousand animal units and above uh that that the state has direct uh direct control over. Anything under that level is subject to Winona County zoning ordinance
regulations and is administered directly by the county. Um so it depends on number of animal units. Now the the excess feed lot funding was uh contract with soil and water um conservation
district was to assist producers in preparing uh manure management plans which is kind of a new requirement under the state that is that is coming into effect. the state had given us additional funding uh for a two-year
period that because of turnover we had not fully spent and because we were required to put our match up front we wanted to full fully utilize those state dollars at the same time assist the producers in coming coming into
compliance with some new state requirements. So that that was the purpose of the contract. It was it's one-time funding. It's not we're not um transferring any duties that we would that we would have normally performed to
the soil and water conservation district. It was it was a just a methodology or an opportunity to assist the agricultural community in uh getting some help from soil and water to pro to uh to you know provide some uh manure
management. So that was separate dollars, not the 39,000 that correct that was that was indeed separate dollars. >> Those were there was some additional funding that that the state had provided for a two-year period. So that that they have now uh brought the funding
down back down um with the last legislative session uh brought the funding back down. So, uh, that was kind of a one-time event and just because of circumstances, we had additional funding and it was an opportunity to help the egg community.
>> Well, I relate it to, um, number of years ago, we used to do the restaurant inspections and we had two full-time staff doing restaurants and we elected to turn that back to the state of Minnesota and I've never heard a a complaint or or problem from that and I kind of relate it to the same same type
of thing. Okay. I think we should continue to look at um you know what we do with this function if it's not paying for itself and it's not of benefit to and maybe poll the producers and such and see how they feel um because they're the ones that are are having to deal
with um feed lots. So the answer to your question Ross is exactly the discussion you know to to really first of all enlight you know why do we have what we have um to kind of enlighten you on some feedback the
things that we hear right especially myself I live with this every day so I think the the big the the not going to say it's the question at hand but it's just the evaluation of what is the role the taxpayers paying for it what benefit are they getting we're seeing a little
overlap into the SWCD just due to funing and staffing. I think one of the, you know, we bring up the manure management thing and I would have to I I think back 20 years ago when we had different feed lot officers um um you know Mark and different people over the
years and one of the biggest things always was actually manure management. It was a before any sort of mandating was there there was a a desire for that and it's a complex thing. I've been asked many times and I've done them before and it's they're difficult. it's hard to find people to do them that and
I believe that a lot of that advice was coming from our former feed lot officers if not doing them but just how to put them together and they were a resource for that and so the question becomes if we're outline if if that's being outsourced now we're paying for it here
plus we're paying for it here what are the specific duties of the feed lot officer and this is just a review it's not we're just again the double taxation double role still have what we have so I just wanted to make light to make sure that we know and I can tell the constituents that say well what's this
feed off what what what's the future of the agriculture is changing theirs are getting bigger feed lot off are getting bigger the days 100 200 300 cow dairies are almost done everything's going to 500 to 2500 as a minimum um you know especially feed lots are getting much
bigger so you know what is the true role what what can we ask of this person and just to kind of enlighten people that may not deal with this every day but also to evaluate where our tax dollars goes and and to say, hey, yes, we're the number of feed lots and dairies are not
increasing in our county, but now we have two organizations we're paying to manage it. So, it's just a question and to certify that what do we need? Alluding to Commissioner Wards, if at some point maybe it is more advantageous to turn it back over to the state, but it's to just say, hey, hey, animal
producers, we're aware you exist and you're worth pulling off the agenda and having a discussion as to where taxpayer dollars. Does that make sense? >> Yeah, I understand. So, you know, >> what I'm hearing is that uh business as usual, the feed lot thing or the the
manure management thing is uh you know, we're fortunate to have some of the members at the SWCD that can handle some of that. But, um and then is our current feed lot officer going to be dabbling into that too, which I think in the past they've had a lot of good recommendations. So, >> yeah. Yeah, they're they're prep
preparing some uh some educational uh events that will allow those producers who wish to provide them some assistance and guidance on preparing their own plans if they wish. Uh so we're going to be operating that. Uh then in addition
to the the preparing the new S SWCD preparing the manure management plans, there's also the use of the nutrient management tool which is a new which is a new aspect. Um so it the um the fel lot officer will be involved within that
those aspects and there there will likely be additional oversight related to that. So uh ultimately it comes down to is what levels do you want to be looking at? Uh currently we look at levels below what the state would look
at. >> Discussion. >> Um not we could continue to discuss. I'll move to approve item what had been item 7.18. >> Thank you. >> Thank has moved. Commissioner Olsson has
seconded approval of what was item 7.18 approve a 26 Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Winona County feed lot agreement and work plan for 26 to 2029. Is there further discussion? Um I would like um maybe halfway through the year uh we're
in January to have an update of what the work plan looks like and how many contacts have been made and what progress has been made with any anything. I mean this is we're approving it for um actually for out into 2029
um and and get an update what's going on in our food lots. >> Sure. Um further discussion otherwise I have several I have some questions. Well, I think traditionally we always get a report. Yeah. >> Yeah, we do. I think don't we get it like mid year or something? Yeah. But is
there something more in that report that you want that we haven't gotten in the past? >> That question to me. >> And uh either you or commissioner or >> my my whole point to it is as agriculture is changing, it's getting bigger. That's the reality of it. We're
not going to stop that or we're going to end up kicking them all out just due to cost. I mean, it is what it is. So what once was 20 years ago was completely different today and the roles is changing and I know one of those difficult things is under management plans it always has been even before
mandates. So and just understanding that if the taxpayer is going to fund something are we getting our money's worth or are we better to look at doing it a different way whether we team up with somebody else whether we turn it back over continue to do what we are I just want the discussion to be had. That
was my point. >> I have some other questions for you. Um, Mr. Dun, >> uh, just to let Yeah. Yeah. Just just to let you know, I am looking at reallocating staff. We did lose the water planner. So, a certain amount of the field officer's time I'm applying to
to that program. So, we're going to be reducing that cost. We're going to be using some state grant funds that we're being that we're supporting the water planning activity. So, we're we're readjusting those allocations. So, the current cost of what you're seeing, I'm bringing that down. Perfect. Because our feed lots are going down. They're going
backwards. >> That's good news. >> Um so even though this contract or this agreement says it goes through 29, we could get out of it next year if we wanted to. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. Okay. >> And um >> it just sets the Sorry, M. >> No, you go
>> Sure. It just sets the boundary how we're going to operate. We're not obligated, right? That's the way I understood. >> Yeah. And my question was um what is the process to pass? So I I'll just say that your your predecessor used to say that he favored this because it is more local
control. That's our staff person and therefore um not just a stranger from the state. So there's a better opportunity to have relationships with the producers and that like you I'm just saying that that's what he told us about what the advantage of it having our own
feed lot officer is. Um, so what is the process to pass it back to the state and how much lead time does it need and what would we I mean just would you have to research that? >> I I would need to review the terms of the agreement. I believe it's it's basically providing a written notice
whatever the terms of the contract uh contain and uh and then it it would be just a providing a a notice that we're removing ourselves. >> The goal wasn't to dispute the necessity. The goal was to just to talk about what the role is, you know.
>> Okay. >> And I like the idea of dual rolling because as we decrease in feed lots, we still want a local presence, but is that figure how is what is the perception of that figure? Are they there to help or are they there to or hurt? And so I want
to create go back to the help side given recent events. That's put a pretty big black eye in what we do here. And then also as a resource and I'm not saying to only have one resource. I'm just saying have we have a some [snorts] sort of a definitive role a year into this new
person that and I know that one of those things is manure management plans that a lot of people ask help for because they are timeconuming and very expensive. >> Yeah. So obviously our intent is to assist. Yeah. Um with that we also have obligations to enforce. So we can't we
can't we have to do both. Uh, as far as us preparing manure management plan, the PCA has advised us they don't want us directly preparing that. It kind of prevents puts us into a conflict of something that we're regulating that we've prepared. Um, that so that's why
we utilizing the expertise of the soil and water to to do that development. >> And that's that's what I was alluding to is that most people have to turn to an outside source to do it for them and that's expensive. So people the cost of farming and agriculture just especially
in the animal industry is just it's why they're leaving and we're fortunate to have what we have today. Um and I'm well aware of that cost because I've been offered a pretty obscene amount of money to do it but it's time consuming. So, a lot of people are trying to take this on
themselves, but they're looking for people that can guide them, not to do it for them and what those resources are, >> which which is why we're pursuing some educational opportunities to so that those who wish to pursue it, those who want who need more assistance and would
rather rely on the soil and water can can access that. So, we're doing both with that that excess funding. The comment that I would make to this is this is why we're seeing the small people drop out because they don't they can't they don't have the time or the resources to deal with regulation. The
bigger the bigger ones do and they can dedicate the time and the resources to it. And so we we see this even in organic farming now the regulations which they've always been strict but the amount of paperwork to stay in it is superseded and it's become so complex
that the small dairy farms the small organic farms are dropping out because they just can't deal with the standards and the paperwork even though they're honest people doing what's right it's almost overwhelming the amount of paperwork they have to do just to stay in the standards. So the big survive the small ones say it's not worth it
anymore. So it's unfortunate. So >> any further discussion hearing? None. All those in favor of moving uh Commissioner Vagley has moved moved and O Commissioner Olsen has seconded approval of the county feed lot agreement and work plan. All those in
favor please signify by saying I. >> I. I. >> Is there anyone who's opposed? Please say nay. Okay. Motion carries. >> Next item uh is 8 no 8.02 which used to be 7.4. This is the uh powers agreement
uh our contract uh with the on the law enforcement center with the city of Wana. Uh administrator Holy, do you have anything to share or Commissioner Ward you want to start off? >> Um I guess uh couple things come to mind. Um and it caught my attention because we've
had discussions at some other uh unrelated meetings about what is a joint powers and I don't know that this is really a joint powers thing. We are the this is the the rent of or this is allowing the police Winona police to
continue using office space in the [clears throat] LEC. We're in my opinion and a a quick we're the owner and they're the renter. it. Joint powers in my relationship with other entities is that we're all equals and we join
together to do things of a common nature, which kind of is, you know, yes, law enforcement and everything, but we're not equals because they don't own it. We own it and we're the landlord and they're the renter. So, I guess I find it odd that it's a uh it is a joint
powers agreement. And then I know Miss Holty had sent out another um email and everything. I guess I failed to find out. >> May I respond to that? >> Yeah. >> Sure. Yeah, that's okay. Uh and as soon as Commissioner Ward gives up the floor,
you have it. M Comm Commissioner Al. Um, I just wanted to clarify your joint a joint powers agreement is a a term of legal uh it's a it's it's a legal term and it be and we use that because the city is its own um uh government entity
and the county is a government entity to so in order to have an agreement to essentially share facilities but yes they pay rent um and it's really cheap actually. So >> yeah, and >> one comment I was going to be making, but no, but so it's it's a term of legal
art that has to be used and in order to to have and and we share services too with that. >> So it's it's not your usual tenant landlord thing. So that's why it's called a joint powers agreement because of
>> a specific statute that that allows and requires actually if you're going to join with >> government entities um you have to put together a joint powers agreement. Okay. And then lastly, I guess uh in the emails and and this I I think the only
thing I saw I think is that we're not raising the rent, but I don't remember what the rent was and maybe I missed something >> or we're still negotiating that. >> Commissioners, the lease amount or rent amount is not a set amount. There's a formula that was
established way back in the very beginning that is still in place. So, it is dependent on the tax base and again there's a formula and I'm I can't reiterate that verbatim right at this moment but I can most certainly supply
anyone who wants it. Um it's the same formula and it changes year to year and it's gone up not down. >> Okay. But not significantly. I mean is what I'm told >> some some years it deals the tax base. >> Yeah. Y >> go for it.
>> So two things. Yeah. I was just going to allude to I believe reading and I have not looked at this. I don't believe not in here but I remember seeing that agreement what a while ago from the 90s I think it was whenever that was it was old >> but I mean they had redone it in the '9s
and I saw one of them and it had that verbiage on there the joint it's been on there >> indefinitely but good call I would agree >> to the public it looks like there's some sort of joint really in reality it's rent and tenant right I mean that's that's our tenant and landlord but you
know enter government and we got to do it right But the second thing would be just looking at that contract. Um, you know, the the one basis I would put to that though was just and it's not to pick on the city. That's not the goal
here, but we have cost and whether some formula changes or doesn't change, the cost to replace the front door is probably going to go up, right? And that's what I always say in all these buildings. You can you can have what you want based on square footage, but if I got a 3500 foot building or 1,750 foot building, the front door costs the same.
So, I got to get more for the square footage in the small one than I do in the big one because it's the same dollar about to place the door. So, at the end of the day, um I think that's something that as we move forward, depending on what the city wants to do, um hearing that we have this complex formula, but we also have to understand that, you
know, the dynamics of the city to the county relationship have also changed and are we covering the cost? I'm here to protect my constituents and um you know, can we relook at that and just to be sure that we're okay. Any other
comments? Commission. >> I'll move to approve item which had formerly been item 7.4. >> I'll second that. And with a comment, I I know that this uh discussion has been long and hard. Um and I appreciate
Marine and um her city counterpart Chad uh working on this. I'm glad it came to us today. Thank you. >> Any other discussion? I otherwise I have a couple things. >> Yeah. Um so
timeline where are we at with having the the company we agreed to look at things? Do we have a timetable when there will be a decision of staying leaving? We're still kind of in limbo. >> Um do we have a defined timeline when
this process >> thought we had said oh go ahead. >> Yeah we said we have control over it. >> Yeah. >> Yes. So to answer the question, no, there is not a defined timeline. Um what we're working through is internal analysis of space. Um uh Mr. Lefy is
working on that with the leadership team. We are putting together an internal work group to look at what departments could be potentially moved around um and what areas that we currently lease can we bring internally.
Um, so once we're through that process, uh, Mr. Lefy will work with the company that you approved a tenative agreement with because the understanding is we need to bring back those recommendations to the board in order to get the approval to move forward with the company,
>> right? >> To evaluate what can we do based on what we need, what can we do. >> So there is not a set time frame, but >> before we move forward with the company, it will come back to you. >> Okay. Government Commissioner >> I I'm not certain by any means, but I
thought we had tried to agree to try to keep it in six months. We we didn't put a formal timeline to it, but we said, >> "Hey, we'd like to have this accomplished in the next six months is what I believe the discussion. >> We are striving to do that." >> Um maybe that's what you're
targeting to have the internal analysis. >> You don't want to rush something to make a decision when there's no rush, but we also need to move forward on some things. >> Correct. So if I understand correctly, this really based this is based on the email that you sent us back on the 8th of January that this uh the changes to
this agreement are it put us in a better position in terms of if we need to make repairs or remodel to the building >> or consolidate. >> Yeah. It in there. So we're getting uh an option like so that we can make a notice to the city that we're ending the
agreement that they'll need to leave. >> Correct. and um that we will have language in there that addresses if we choose to move forward remodeling that you know what their response has to be. So I feel like this these this is
designed to help us move forward with the things that we need understanding that it doesn't address everything we need in order to figure out the final solution. Right. Am I right? >> Yeah. Go ahead. >> This still gives us the power to say yes you can stay. No, you can't stay. I mean there's nothing in here that's going to
bind anything. >> Thank you. >> Correct. >> But that's that's >> we need our options open. So >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> So uh this item which is now 8.01 approve extension of joint powers agreement concerning financing occupying and conducting consolidated functions in
the law enforcement center. It was moved for approval by Commissioner Begley, seconded by Commissioner Olsen. Is there any further discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor please signify by saying I. >> I. Is anyone opposed? If so, please say nay. Motion carries.
Okay. Uh, next. Yep. We have one more item and that is just uh was 7.23 confirmed payment of dispersements and commissioner uh board has some questions. >> Yeah. And maybe it's part of uh process and procedure. Uh once these uh
dispersements show up on our board agenda, we've and correct me if I'm wrong, we've already committed the funds. we've already either made the purchase, we physically have the product in our hands or something. So, it's kind of backwards in my opinion. Some of these things are kind of backwards
because there's some things in here that are very large purchases and I remember even from the last one, there was like and I don't know if you were able to get the information, there was like a $10,000 purchase of software and and >> I sent you the answer. >> Okay. And and again, if we're we've
already purchased it, have we done I guess the question is, have we do done diligence to rean analyze and uh know if that's the best use of our $10,000 because software is, you know, it's all over. Um and and like uh this time, um
one of the things that caught my attention was um uh on the um the items today um a a bill for $4,494.21 21 cents and it says interest to a law firm. Ryan law firm. Why are we paying a
law firm interest? I I don't know what that how that was coded or what that is, but there's no way I would have authorized paying interest to a law firm. >> I don't have an answer on that one yet. I do have a request. >> And so I I guess I'm I'm asking and then
there was a um and Commissioner Ellison would agree with this. is $2,57645 for a blinking stop sign. And we both distinctly remember commission uh highway engineer Kramer didn't really like blinking stop signs. He doesn't
like blinking signs. And so I was wondering why are we spending $2,57640 on a blinking stop sign. I don't know what the checks and balances should be or dispersements because like I said once they come here it it's they've
already been you know spent or approved and I'm not sure what our internal uh I know we've got a new finance person how they should be approved. I question our credit card you know who has the credit card. It's really easy I know even personally to throw out a credit card and put it on and and not know exactly
how it's being spent. So maybe it's more the whole process of how these things show up that we're, you know, we're rubber stamping them. They've it's already been spent and committed and how do we pull back on it? I don't know if there's a mechanism for that or how to stop it. That's my concern.
>> Miss Wilbright, you got can you enlighten me? >> Uh yeah, the interest to Ryan Law Firm is for tax court case. So it's statutory that we have to pay them interest. They want a tax court case on evaluation. It's a fascin
when >> money. >> Yeah. When they pay when they uh Sorry, I ran over here. Um when because I couldn't I couldn't get unmuted. Anyway, >> um the retainer
>> when tax court cases happen. basically this one fast and all one saying that their valuation had to be lowered for all of those properties. Um when we pay them back so we had to reimburse them for a prior year's tax that they already paid. We have to pay
interest at the percentage set by the state >> but the repayment goes to the law firm representing Fasinol. >> Oh man. >> So that's what that one was. >> And really appreciate fastenol questioning us one of the largest most
reputable, productive, and then they take a stick. >> It's just like a legal statute. You have to pay interest on a security deposit. >> But I guess, like I say, I'm questioning the whole process of how these come. It's already been spent. We're obligated like um uh one of U attorney Sonaman's
uh pet projects of course is RAP. We're paying do we really have to pay >> great project. >> Um but do we have to pay four 441 rap evaluations? Does every at 7 times seven, there were seven of those in there. Um, does everybody that's on wrap
have to have this level of evaluation again and it was spent. So, I mean, I've got to pay the bill. >> But that evaluation opens up the door to so much more funding that the board or the county does not have to pay. >> Yeah. That the state is paid. >> Yeah. But was that in your budget? >> Health evaluation.
>> Was that in the budget? >> Yes. It's in the budget. Yeah. >> Yeah. Okay. But I I you know at some point I would like maybe our new uh Mr. Sonnerberg to have some kind of enlighten how maybe we could improve this process. Well, I think you know um
I know that uh uh the Jill Chaffy the traffic is it Chaffy >> Jaffy thank you left already but she's also talking about opening up you know kind of more revenue streams for the county rap is the same thing that by
paying that fee to and it goes to Haywa Valley Mental Health Center who's our partner in RAP then people are eligible for other funding sources that the county doesn't have to pay. So, um it's it's an entry
um into into many other funding sources. So, um so we're always looking for ways to save the county money. >> But I guess like again I said it's the process that they should come up to us and >> Commissioner Begley and then you Commissioner >> um just a time check. We're almost an
hour into the meeting. We're still in the consent items. Um and I'm I can be here until 12:30. I'll skip lunch etc. I'm just saying for the sake of us as a body. I think once we get past three hours, our decision- making ability decreases, etc. So, um I and I don't want to I don't want to limit
discussion, but maybe if we can either ask questions ahead of time or table it for a follow-up meeting, etc., because it's almost literally an hour and we're still in consent. So, I'd like and we can we can continue the conversation. I'd like to move to approve item 7.23. >> Second.
>> Thank you, Commissioner Elsing and then you, Commissioner Warden. >> Just a quick comment. Um although I can agree a little bit with what you're saying, but I think the big thing is is one of the reasons why I do a lot of that here is for everybody that's right up there and everybody that's out here
>> and they need to see that we're fighting for them working asking the questions because if that happens in the backside they have no idea what we're doing. All they see is a decision made and they have no idea how we came to that conclusion. That's called transparency and I like the word transparency. So I
have a lot of these discussions here because I work for them and they need to know. So that's why I do what I do. Um second thing is is I think in the commission I don't want to use this as what you're trying to do but my opinion for asking these types of questions is
I I I get a lot of questions of people saying I don't really know what goes on down there. Why are my taxes going up? State taxes, local taxes, property taxes. We just put a sales tax in. tax, tax, tax, tax, tax of his house and home, right? What am I
paying for? And so I think the question becomes we're just trying to show and shed some light so that the people that are online because they're going to go talk to five other people is that hey, we are being accountable. We are looking at the little things. We are kicking the rock over every day. I go on my phone
and if you want to see fuel bills and every one of my employees has a company credit card and it is up to them how to use that but I go through and audit it every single day because you'd be amazed at what we just spend in fuel every day and I need to know what's happening and
so as a business owner I literally do this every day and I think what Commissioner Ward is looking to is saying hey um and I have the people underneath me have to report to me if I see something that isn't Right. So I think that's all we're trying to do is just get a little more transparency, a little more idea down to the small
level. How are we managing these programs? >> So I think that's what we're doing. >> Were you waiting? >> Uh well I reiterate some of the things same things because I do ask a lot as Miss Holty will I usually have a long list a laundry list of asking questions and I think our I think our consent
agenda is too has too broad of a implication. But just for instance um in 7.9 was the approved renewal purchase service agreement for Lutheran social services guardian conservativeship. We have multiple guardian conservative
persons. So this looks small you know it went from um 20 to 54 but as Miss Holty provided me there are multiple vendors who provide these services and are coded. The 2024 budget was 321,000 for this. And but we spent 423,000.
The 2025 budget was $399,000, but we spent 446 um 629,000. And so I asked, what did we budget in 2026? Well, we only budgeted 410, but the trend in the in just this one
service is escalating. So I think it it's unfortunate. it is. We know everything goes up, but part of my intent is to educate the board as to what some of these things are. If you don't ask and don't look at it, they like, "Oh, it's only 20,000." But no,
it's $410,000. That's how many% to levy for one one service that we provide. So, again, I uh I can appreciate your time, Commissioner Vaguely, but again, this is our job this morning and and to to set a time limit
uh I find offensive. Uh, finance director son. >> Hi, Phil Sonnenberg, finance director, Winona County. Um, the approvals that occur every day um on these transactions are from the budget approved by this
board. Um, all of those relate to contracts also approved by this board. So the other items that are going through are approved by supervisors and department heads and we have visibility and transparency to each one of those
transactions. So if there are questions we can certainly answer them in regards to process. Um I think if there are questions to refinement of that that's a bigger conversation because of the impending of business process to get things paid.
Well, I relate to uh Commissioner Olsen and his other job where he was purchasing toilet paper. I mean, do we have 10 people in the county purchasing toilet paper or we talked many years ago about having a central purchasing >> department um to to kind of control some
of this stuff because in the last group and the last one in January, we had we had three tool boxes bought for $4710 or something. So, why did we need three new tool boxes? and and three separate purchases. So, and again, did did
somebody take the time um to actually it was it three separate people that researched and found that that's the best toolbox to buy? Again, time is money and again I I would uh your expertise in time to maybe refine some of this stuff or or control some of this
stuff because uh we spend a lot of money. >> Sure, >> we spend a lot. >> Thank you. to maybe sum up I think what commissioner Ward is saying is um you know in centralized purchasing processes are very common especially in large
businesses that's there's people that are I have friends of just that one last night who happens to farm also for IBM that's his job right and uh so there's some very powerful people that negotiate these things and try to get better deals so I I can see where you're going with that but I think the bigger thing would
you and we just brought up going over budget okay so we approved a budget but yet you always go over the budget. So, in normal circumstances, you have a budget and that's it. And there's no going over that unless you get board approval again, right? Um, so looking at
some of these scenarios, I think that's one of the things I would bring up is just understanding where we're over or under budget. When I was mayor, I brought up the same thing. Why are we allowing this to happen and why are we over here? Why are we under there? So I think the whole idea is just to make sure that we understand the process and
we understand and can be responsible and transparent to the to to our taxpayer. But then why are we going over budget and why are we not setting a budget differently and who's allowing it to go over budget, you know, types of those types of things. Sure. You know, should should that be the stop point when we're
getting within 70% of a budget to re-evaluate that and say, well, wait a minute, you know, we're getting close to going over budget. Why? >> Yeah. you know, and is there a reward for being under budget? You know, that's the next thing. There's a many, you know, that's levy. >> Yeah. Yeah. Well, I'm saying, but is it
is is there a way to encourage not using all the budget? You know, we know we can't work on a bonus system, but to get creative and and and try to come up with these things in government, you know, I think that's what the taxpayer wants to see. Sure. So, I think that's what this is about. >> Absolutely. And I'd be happy to continue
conversations in this arena >> 100%. >> Yep. Thanks. Any further discussion? If not, um, Commissioner Begley, there's a number of items on the, uh, committee of the board and even on this agenda as we move into general budgets that could potentially be taken. I
>> hope so. I I often I'm surprised how long small items. [laughter] >> Okay. So, uh, the motion on the floor is to confirm the payment of dispersements. It was moved by Commissioner Vagely, seconded by Commissioner Olsen. Any further discussion? >> Hearing none. All those in favor, please signify by saying I.
>> I. Hi. >> And if anyone's opposed, say nay. Okay. Motion carries. And we are now moving on to our regular general business department recommendations. So, it's my understanding uh we did conduct a public hearing back in December for our fee
schedule, but there was an inadvertent uh mistake in that I think the new cannabis fees were not a part of that uh fee schedule. So, I think that we need to uh do that process over again so that those new fees are recognized and we
take public input on them. Am I right? >> There's also uh an amendment for the vitals correction >> area vital um vital statistics. It's a theme modification. >> Um so those are the revisions that we're asking for an amendment.
>> So we need to have uh another public hearing and then we need to choose to approve the fee schedule or not. Motion to open the public hearing. >> I'll second that. >> Okay. Commissioner Olsen moves and Commissioner Begley seconds uh opening a public hearing. Uh any
discussion hearing? None. All those in favor, please signify by saying I. >> Oppos say nay. >> Okay. Motion carries. Uh if anyone in the audience or online would like to make a comment as a part of this public hearing, which is the review of the fee schedule of Winona
County, um could you step forward to the mic, tell us your name and address. If you are online, could you use the uh reaction emoji whoop reaction emojis to raise your hand so our ad the administrative assistant can
>> chair um Miss Hun reminded me that they can unmute themselves. >> You can unmute yourself. Okay. So, did see some hands up earlier. >> Oh, that was just the mouse from Heidi. [laughter] >> Yeah.
>> Okay. So, I'm going to ask a couple more times. Is there anyone here in the audience or online that would like to make some comments about the Winona County fee schedule for 26? For the third and final time, is there anyone who would like to make some comments as a part of the public hearing
for the fee schedule for the county? Hearing nobody. A motion to close the public hearing. I'll >> move that. Uh, I'm going to give it to Olsson. So, Commissioner Alsing moves. Commissioner Olsson seconds closing the public hearing for the fee schedule. Any
discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor, please signify by saying I. >> I. And if anyone is opposed, please say nay. Public hearing is closed. We would now discuss and potentially make a decision about the fee schedule. >> Mr. Wolf. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Uh, if I'm
looking at this right, any changes were printed in red. Correct. Those were the changes that we're making to it. Okay. All right. Thank you. >> Any further discussion? >> Was there >> move approve? No. >> Just real quick, was there any was there a lot of discussion on any of these
changes? No, >> Mr. Holty. Basically, it was if Commissioner Ward, you moved, correct? >> Yeah. Move approve to adopt the the amended schedule. >> Mr. Ward moves vaguely seconds approval of the fee schedule as amended in our
packet and was just part of the public hearing. Any further discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor, please signify by saying I. I. And if anyone's opposed, please say nay. >> No. I I do apologize, Madam Chair. I I don't I see one hand up. I don't know if they wanted to. >> That's not actually that.
>> That's the mouse. >> The mouse. >> No, that's the mouse. Okay. All right. We'll make it a looks like a hand if they want. It is a hand. >> We should have Heidi put up her hand and then you could see what that looks like. It's a big yellow thing. >> Put up a mouse. I mean, a rat or something.
>> A rat. Okay. So, moving on to item 8.2, discuss and appoint citizen advisory committee members. And this is on page 352 of our packet. How would the board like to proceed? >> Just had a I guess more of a question.
Can an employee be part of any of these of the county? >> I'm sorry, an employee. >> Can an employee of the county be part of any of these? >> No. Can a contractor of the contract? Yes. Contractor could though. >> Contractor could. >> Right. I'm I'm assuming you
>> just going through but Miss Henderson. >> Yes. Because she's the only one that she's a contract. Okay. I wasn't sure that was the only question that I had for the legality side. So Okay. >> Okay. M. >> Uh Madam Chair. Um of course as um uh chair you have the authority and
responsibility to do the planning commission. Um and we have just one technically uh one reappoint and one opening. So that's at your discretion. But all the other applications and I greatly appreciate
people wanting to serve in these capabilities. It's important and so I would move to approve um the existing board of adjustments with the reappoints of Ed Walsh and Lynn Reig. Um economic development. We do still have uh
vacancies extension. Uh we have uh let's see we have >> we do have to make a decision there. >> Yeah, there. Okay. I I apologize. I thought it wasn't um >> we may skip that one if you're going to make a motion to like approve the >> ones where they're even numbers. >> Yep. >> Yeah.
>> It's fine with me if you include the planning commission because I will abide by the wishes of the board. >> Okay. And there's really no discretion there. Okay. So the so the health and so I apologize an extension um we have we need to discuss I'm sorry. So uh economic health and human service would
be the four that are up for reappointment plus the new uh parks and recreation would be the reappointment and the two that are new. We have openings on the personnel board of appeals. uh planning commission would be the reappoint of one and the one new and
the Selco would be the reappoint of the one um >> so I move and I I mean I can see that Miss Saraki has applied but that is her number two choice so we would be giving her her number one choice under what you've proposed so >> yes okay >> okay >> so that's a motion
>> that's a motion that >> okay uh so commissioner Ward has made a motion and commissioner has seconded. It basically uh is to go ahead and accept all the reappoints and the new
appointments except for a discussion about extension. >> Correct. >> Um and it also just with the idea that the Celco board of directors we would be appointing reappointing uh Miss Mohler and not appointing Miss Rocky. Uh any
further discussion hearing? None. All those in favor of this slate of appointees, uh if you support that, please signify by saying I. >> I. >> I. And if you uh descent, please signify
by saying nay. Okay. Slate is approved. Um Commissioner Bigley. >> Um when it comes to extension, I'll make a motion to reappoint Casey Mueller. Um and then to also appoint Satie Newman. She served on the parks and environment committee. She term limited off. She's
been a fantastic um volunteer member of that adi the parks and committee. I think she'd be a a good addition to the extension committee as well. I'll get that. >> Commissioner Ward, please. Yeah. >> Um we could check um because Miss um
Nicole Shalah Shallow um for extension. I don't know. >> Yeah, I'm not sure. Um I do see she has some valuable um yes uh livestock. I'm not sure if we're restricted to the number that we can have on the extension committee. I would just ask maybe we
reach out to the uh Lisa Dirks who's the um lead on that and is there a limiting factor that we can only have so many because many times not all members can be pre present and um I can go with the um the uh u recommendation but maybe
check to see if we could add that project. >> Is that an acceptable? >> Absolutely. Great idea. Yeah, >> I was >> I was going to nominate um just due to the vast experience um you know we actually work with Darland Labs and we know their passion in you know a lot of
these I'm going to say outlying areas with agriculture and different things like that. So I was going to reappoint uh the current one and also uh make a motion for the coal is that am I saying it right? Yeah. >> So, >> okay. So, >> just due to her experience and fits the
extension. So, >> well, there is a motion on the fork made by Bang Lee, seconded by Olen to go with the reappoint of Mueller and uh to appoint Satie Newman. Um, is there further discussion
>> and uh an and an amendment from Commissioner Ward to ask about >> if we could also include Nicole if we could add another member to the committee. >> Yes. Okay. Uh >> I was just looking at plopping that [clears throat] that was my thing. Same concept, but so I'm going to vote no
just based on that. >> Okay. Um any discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor of the motion as presented signify by saying I >> I those who are opposed. >> Okay. There are two nays. But the motion does carry. >> Oh, then someone from some staff will
>> Yeah. Check. >> We'll check with Lisa Durk because if possible >> and nothing against either one. I just saw the one is a better fit. >> Madam Chair, uh I do have a question. Um being that the the Celco, which again we give a lot of money to the library and
our voice in the libraries. So is there an option to put um an alternate to that committee? I I again I don't know how that committee is structured because it's governed by the Selco board. Um but if if uh we don't have a voice there um
is it optional for like uh Miss Shaki to attend as an alternate? That's the question I'm asking. >> Yeah. We do have a ruling about not allowing people to have two assignments, right? And she's been already has an assignment as a >> people can probably attend. >> Yeah. Right.
>> But that's not to say we can't ask the question. >> Yeah. I I think we should get clarity. Can we have an alternate to that committee? >> Um thank you. >> Okay. All right. So, moving on to 8.3, which is the county board appointments to the
2026 boards and committees. And this is for us as commissioners. It's on page 406 of our packet. And the question would be, do people want to give up any assignments? Are they interested in assignments that they don't have?
And many years, this really just stays the same. and I appreciate you filling in on the SWCD board. I just want to make a comment about that. Obviously, I'm passionate about that and want to support it. It just I can't always make every meeting. Um, and having sat on
that board for many years. There's a bit of a redundancy for me that sets into place and I'm pretty familiar with a lot of the things that going on. So, um, I kind of sit at a high level with that, but I'd also I I enjoy being part of that. So, I appreciate you stepping in. Also, >> I would just ask they uh they reached
out to me and so if you can't make it, just drop me an email and I will try to go >> Thursday. I can't make it. >> Okay, >> there you go. >> Uh Commissioner Ward, >> um I I'm fine with what what we have. I I would be remiss if I didn't though. I had a constituent um request that I
maybe put this on the table is we put all the committees in the hat and we draw names. Uh we draw committees because some counties, as we do, we tend to stay on the same committee. some counties rotate them. Um, but this constituent felt that
>> throw them all in a hat, you draw out, and that's your committee. But I realize some of us have different work schedules and different commitments and different, uh, interests. So, >> uh, but I would be remiss if I didn't throw that out on the table. >> Is that a motion or >> No, it's just a suggestion. >> I'll make a motion that we leave the
committees the way they are. >> I know I'm not going to win. >> I'll second that. >> Okay. So, uh, Commissioner Elsing moves that we accept the slate of board appointments as it is in our packet. And Commissioner Wgley, you seconded that, right? >> Okay. Any further discussion?
Hearing none. All those in favor, uh, please signify by saying I. I. >> If anyone is opposed, please say nay. >> Right. Many assignments have been accepted. I note that this can change as things happen during the year and our schedules change. Okay. Item 8.4 Four is
to discuss requesting an update from the Wabasha County fraud investigator. >> You got him here. >> Okay. But is it now which Okay. So, let me This is on page 407. Did we all agree to do it? So, this is the actual do it. >> It's under general Well, it's under
general business. So, yeah, I was a little surprised, too, but they're here. So, let's >> So, yeah. Well, let's say before we do it, our process is that at least three commissioners have to agree that we want to do it. Um, so could we have could we have that conversation first?
>> I'll make a motion to do it. I'll second that. >> Any further discussion? >> I'll third it. >> Okay. All right, then. It looks like maybe it's going to pass. Um, all those in favor of moving ahead to have this presentation from the Wabashaw County Fraud Investigator, please signify by
saying I. I. Is anyone opposed? Say eight. Okay. Please, we I would love to proceed with the um with the report. >> Yeah. Have you got your bulletproof vest on? >> So, um I'm not here to give a report.
Okay. >> I wasn't here for that reason. I was surprised to see it on the agenda. >> Okay. Um you want to know shotgun, right? >> So, I'm not giving a report. That would come from my investigator who I would No, he's my chief deputy. >> Oh, okay. >> So, my investigator is back in Wabasha
working. Um, she's been uh I think maybe three years into the job now and I'd love for her to uh come and and meet you all and and give a presentation. She doesn't like her job. She loves her job. >> Sorry, could you please say your name? >> I'm Rodney Bart. I get to be the sheriff of Wabashaw County at least for the next
uh year. Um and uh >> yeah, and I was here for the shotgun rifle uh issue so that uh we could prepare in in our county for any possible questions. And um I know that we had went out and and did some
presentations over the years and then we would cycle through investigators and um it was almost painful. But we have one now. I think she's committed uh for a long long time which that continuity is so important in these investigations and again she loves what she does. So I' I'd
love for her to come before you and give her some give you some stats about Winona County. So um and we can we can line that up and I who who should she reach out then to Miss Holy. >> Yes. >> Okay, that sounds good. We will do that. Thank you. >> Thank you. Thank you.
>> You know it's the hot topic that these days. So >> four hours from 8:30. >> Thank you. >> So uh we now are on to 8 point 9.0 9.0 or nine. Okay. Which is where I'm
looking for. I made a note about who wants to say what. Commissioner Elsing. No, no, vaguely. You Here we go. You want to make some comments or a comment? >> Did you Did you have something? >> No. Sh. >> Okay. Um, I'm going to take a couple minutes and talk about a difficult
topic. Um, six days ago, Renee Nicole Good um was shot and killed. Um, I know this is a very difficult conversation for everybody. I want to start off by saying that I know I trust and respect our county sheriff. I know trust and respect our different city police
chiefs. The problem is not local law enforcement. Um I have a deep respect I politically we have some small and large disagreements with some of the folks, but I respect them. The problem is not with local law enforcement. What happened up in Minneapolis um was a
tragedy. Um, and our constitution was created to allow the government to protect citizens from other citizens. And our constitution was created to prov pre prevent I'll say this, to protect citizens from our own government. Um, if you look at
the amendments, I've just literally have been talking about the ninth and tth amendments the last two weeks, my American government class. Um I am concerned by the presence of federal um agents in Winona County and in southeast Minnesota. There have been a number of
different reports which I think have all been so far just rumors of federal um law enforcement agents in terms of immigration services. I've I've heard reports in Udica, in Stockton, in Lewon, etc. at some of the farms. I've tried to
confirm those and so far as far as I know, none of those have been confirmed. terms. I want to be careful about false alarms etc. But I just want to make it clear that um that foreign you know our large dairies would not be able to
function without foreign workers who are here on correct me if I'm wrong HT H2B visas or other like approved work visas etc. >> We we need to welcome um and respect our foreign foreignb born workers who are here legally etc. And I'm concerned
about the overreach of the federal government becoming involved in what are local and state issues. I have a deep, say it again, respect for local and state law enforcement. My concern is with the power um and what's been the
federal agents are not here to create um uh calm. Their their presence is doing the exact opposite. And we have people in Washington DC whose goal is to purposely create chaos. So these these kinds of things like the police chief in
Minneapolis said these things are predictable that it's going to happen. And I hope in Winona County we can be clear that we welcome everybody and that everyone has their due process rights first amendment uh fourth amendment, fifth amendment, you know, 8th, 9th,
10th, etc., 14th amendment, etc. That the right um to express their views and to gather um is an incredibly important right um in our in our system of government. And if the president believes he has no limit on his power,
that is sedicious to say. uh the constitution forget a person's morality and their their sense of being a person of faith. Commissioner Ward, how much have you talked in this meeting? I'm going to wrap up soon. I have purposely not talk very much. >> This is not this is not something
>> this is a very this is a very important issue. Residents in your part of the district might in might encounter people who might endanger their lives and vi violate their civil liberties. >> They might. But this is your personal opinion. This is not based on all the facts. So if you want to talk facts,
simply talking about a concern that I have and that I wish that we would um just let people know that we welcome foreign workers and that Winona County protects the rights of our citizens from our government. Um I'll just simply stop there. And again, if we look at how much
you and I speak at any county board meeting, it's clear. Um so just please give me my time to speak when I when I have an issue to talk about, I'll wrap up there. >> Thank you, Mr. Elsie. >> Good. Um yes. So, happy new year
everybody. Um, you know, a couple things I just wanted a comment came to mind and I somebody a very wise wise successful small business, one of the greatest organic farmers I've ever met was on just the other side of the river, helped
hundreds if not thousands of farms succeed in Wisconsin. And he told me years ago, he said, "To make change, the little things aren't anything. They're everything. But things, big things are obvious to change.
Most of the time, change is a series of small events or things, but they take time to figure out. And that's what we're doing. We're diving into a lot of little things to make big change. And the obvious things generally are if we find something big
and glaring, it's usually an oversight and somebody gets fired. It's a series of a lot of things to make change. And if we're trying to tighten up a budget, the discussions need to have the rocks need to get kicked over. The credit cards need to get questions. And you know, Bob told me that I'll leave this
Bob Schmid. I mean, he's just a phenomenal guy. He set precedents for animals. And so in my mind, you know, most of the time these conversations can seem petty and timeconsuming and they do. Um but um you know, it's it's still
necessary to move forward. And so the second thing I wanted to bring up uh I said happy new year. Um I did bring up with uh uh with Chelsea today. Um just I brought up the Minnesota City. I just wanted on record that still trying to get this Minnesota city school uh
situation. It's been over a decade I believe since we've been doing this and it was uh I guess maybe this is a little bit on the board side but I think 13 years am I wrong with that administrator it's about 13 years
>> and I was told today and this is nothing against Chelsea I understand what she's trying to do but I want to see maybe if there's a potential way we can make a board action to accelerate this I think 13 years to figure out what to do with a piece of property from the county is just asinine.
And you know, I started this process when I first got on. We're still not getting anywhere. I get I get what what what Chelsea wants to do. Um, which is lump it up with a few other properties, but I I made the comment that said, "Hey, one big building in a small community is completely different than a
big building in a big community. It doesn't mean as much, but to these people, it means a And so I just asked if we could potentially even if it doesn't fit a protocol necessarily, you know, it might be a little easier to lump it all together for the sake of that community that has been more than
patient to deal with this school. Is there a way we can put a focus and ask a particular department to push this thing ahead? I mean, these people have been staring at this eyesore for how long wanting to do something with it and probably missed a lot of good opportunities what to do with this. So,
I don't know if it's a board action, a committee of the board thing. Can we is there some way that we can put precedent on getting this resolution to the school sale? >> So, uh a process is if you can get a per if you could state this as a motion and get a second from someone at the table. Uh
>> yeah, at least more discussion on it if there's a way we can expedite this. So, um so I guess I have a motion that we put something on the committee of the board that we can have some sort of discussion about the miss school. Is there >> I would second it because I don't have much information on it.
>> Y >> Okay. So, no. So, noted. Anything else? >> We're moving on then to Commissioner Ward. I I >> Thank you. >> I I did I just >> I I did want to say I was combing through our policies really trying to
see if we have direction related to things that get said as comments at by commissioners at the end of the meeting. I know I always try to limit to county business, not just stuff. Um, but the closest I can come is on our agenda. It
says agenda items should be limited to legislative actions, quasi judicial decisions, policy discussions, orformational reports, which isn't that specific. But Commissioner War, please go on. >> Um, I I think everybody received an email from Lisa Dirks on extension. Um,
they have a number of great opportunities for the public to uh engage in. Uh one is uh sustainability in the community and I don't know if like even the EDA would be interested in it but one of the big things is um forest uh and we got a lot of forest in
Winona County. We got a lot lot of trees on the hills. There's a a forestry discussion about taking care of our forest and woodlands. I believe that's a a Zoom one in um on Friday. Each Zoom will be on Fridays January through April. So I think there's a value for
residents that have own forest land. Um the other one is a uh free workshop on human trafficking and child sexual abuse prevention. Um that might be something that some of our human service people want to. And then another one waves of hope suicide prevention event uh at the
end of January in um Lake City. But uh some good things that the University of Minnesota Extension is putting out for community events. I'm not sure if we can put a link on our county website of what Miss Durks had. Is that allowed?
um well upcoming events. They have a website. >> They have a website and everything. >> It's on our website. >> Yeah. Okay. But I think there's a lot of good things going on and they always provide very good um researchbased information. Um the other one then for future board action. I would like us to
have some type of uh discussion on establishing a policy for rotation of chair and vice chair in the future. I mean I know it'd be a year off but uh just to put that on the agenda if I have a second to that. Sure. >> I'll second. Okay. Uh it doesn't need to be handled right now, but sometime
before the you know the end of of 2026, which will fly by fast. And then um uh I'll advise um Chair Meyer uh January 31st. You need to put on your calendar, maybe you already have uh the League of Women Voters has uh for all uh local
electeds. I think attorney Sonoman, you've been at that in the past uh where they have a round table of what the agenda items are. >> Is there any exit issues? Um >> that's probably also coming up. >> Yeah. Um >> I've not seen it. >> You're not aware of it though. >> Not yet.
>> Yes. Um I'm trying to think. Um I I Yes, there is something. You'll have to check with the chamber um on that. That's >> if you if you find anything, send >> Yeah, that's coming up and everything. And then to remind everybody um and I think uh is it four o'clock Thursday, we're having the America 250.
>> Yes. >> Okay. Um, I thought it was great over the holiday. Uh, I don't know if anybody had a chance to see where they put images on the Washington Monument and in regards to the celebration of 250 years. I mean, they had the Washington
Monument, if I got the right one. Yeah, the the the tall one. They had a space they had a picture of the space shuttle going up on that. It was just it was awesome, the graphics and everything. And they did a lot of things. And I know we're going to try and celebrate the 250. I know we don't have a Washington monument to shoot graphics off of uh but
we are going to try to uh put something together. So if people are interested in doing a 250 uh celebration, but that was that was something pretty cool. >> That's a group that's open to other community members. It's a four o'clock meeting. It'll be a Zoom meeting this time. >> I believe it's a Zoom meeting. So if anybody's interested. So thank you. >> Mr. Als said you wanted to say something
else. >> And just two things I'll allude quick. You ever get an opportunity if you've ever seen the Fourth of July fireworks over the the mile Washington? That is I took my kids there for u for vacation one year. I spent a bunch of time in Washington DC and that is something to
watch. Threequarters of a million people and you sit out in the lawn and you look all the way down to Jefferson and the Washington Monument. It is it is it'll put you right in your place in hurry when you watch that. So >> I lived in DC for four years and I I You're right. That's a powerful >> Oh, yeah.
>> because they do it to music and >> I was hoping to do something here, but I was told as all the fireworks, they're already they're already booked, etc. So, I'd like to do something somehow somewhere, some kind of special celebration on the >> as you shoot off shotguns and rifles,
right? >> Second thing was just as we were sitting here, Chelsea, >> can we get some confetti cartridges and shoot them off? >> Yeah, Chelsea just made a response on an email saying that Minnesota City had forfeited in that in 2019. And again, this is not it's not directed towards anybody. I just really feel like we need
some closure. It's time, you know. So, regardless of all that, let's just get this done for this little community because I we just can't keep waiting for the big communities to get their stuff done. This is a big deal to them and they've been patient. So, not picking anybody. I just want to see if the board will give it precedent. So, precedence.
So, motion to adjurnn. >> Thank you. >> I'll second that. >> Okay. Commissioner Alson move. Vaguely seconds adjournment of this meeting. We will be having committee of the board next but we will have a fivem minute break in between. >> Um any discussion >> hearing? None. All those in favor please signify by saying I.
>> Anyone oppose saying nay. Okay we are journed for we're going to take five minute break. Our first agenda our first agenda item is to discuss the potential creation of a citizen advisory finance committee on page 408 of our
packet. Um thinking this is Ward and Elsing maybe you'd like to >> Yeah. Um >> start off the conversation. >> Yeah. Thank you, Madam Chair. Um yes, I've been asked by some uh citizens um to create an uh you know, a finance advisory uh committee both from as
Commissioner Aling, you know, the transparency uh focus um helping to explain um to the public how our finances work and how our budgeting works. Um I think uh Mr. Sonnenberg and I just got a uh request from Open Gov
which we use for some of our financial things um to maybe uh just get an update from them as a a representative to how we use that and how we can better use that particular tool both internally and for our uh customers. So, and it wouldn't, you know, I'm not intending it
to be a a you know, um micromanagement tool, but a a bigger tool to understand um government finances. >> Okay. >> And be helpful. Any other conversation? Um, I guess my thought process is is
as as much as anybody might disagree with this is that, you know, the funding structure of a tax of a of a government entity versus a private business is it's too easy to just stick our hand out and ask for more. And I mean, you know, what's the old saying, preachers and
politicians? Well, I'm one of them. But at the end of the day, I still go back and say that the structural aspect of running a business when there's a consequence to making a bad decision um carries with it a heavy hand. And in government, we often times can just tax our way out of that. So the whole idea
that I had was getting some what I'm going to say some prominent um people that can have some oversight. And by prominent I don't mean prestigious. I mean people that we think could value to help us make better decisions. And because as board members, we're not all
going to be the best financial people. And even department heads, they're not necessarily always going to be the best financial people. And nobody knows at all. So, um, I I'm going to allude to this. I, as I was sitting here, I grabbed my phone. I went up and just found out that a very actually a company that we, you know, merged with, uh, or
that we had issues is having change of board, having changes of people. And so, and why? It's because that person didn't know at all. And it doesn't make that person a bad person. and it just means that hey there's oversight needs to be changed. So my my concept to this is
that I I think it would be good to get some outside advice especially considering the tax increases that we've been faced just to see is there a way that we can involve more people outside and again it's not to tip on anybody. It's just
I I think it would be a good thing and those people can go out to our constituents and say, "Hey, you know, not only what our great people are doing, but we're also we're also watching what's happening and we think we're in the right direction. If anything, it's going to validate what's
already happened." So, that's just my thoughts on it. >> Other comments? I mean, I have some, but Oh, I'm gonna allow our finance director to talk. >> Yeah. Hi. Um, good morning again. Um, with fairness to myself, this is going
to be a self-s serving point. Um, I've been here for 2 months now and I'd really like the opportunity to figure things out for myself instead of soliciting advice from people that are going to need training themselves on how county government works. So, um it's
just a uh agreed transparency is absolutely very critical. Um I'm offering that to any of you that are on the board to learn and get more intimate with that yourselves should that need be
there. Um but we have leadership that is new um in various areas and I think that team needs to gel as well. the things that we're going to be doing and are doing currently by asking for validation of mandate versus ma non-mandate, what's
paid for by levy, what's not paid for by levy. Um, all of that is going on to provide you with those opportunities to make suggestions and decisions. So, um I I just wanted to make that point um clear that it would be appreciated to be
able to work and gain a level of understanding for Winona County by myself than to train people and other committees on how government business works. >> Mr. Sonberg, um we've been told that we're going to start a process. It's
called activity based budgeting. And is that what you're >> I'm not involved with that myself. that concept was um that of the previous finance draft. >> Okay. So, but we are we still going to proceed with that effort? >> That is very similar to what we're doing
as far as um clarifying what are levy funded and what are you paying for each service. And that is that spreadsheet that was partially completed when we got our packet that shows all the functions, whether it's mandated, whether it's a core function, and then how is it being
funded? And that's broken out by department. Correct. >> And we're going to proceed with that. And when could we expect that we would have our first meeting, I mean, uh, to for the board to start to do that. And would it be a specific apartment department? I mean, I understand that planning environmental services was the
first one. >> Yeah. The goal is there uh for the first meeting in February. So we sent out a um request for information on the 7th and that information is requested to be submitted to me by the 23rd of this
month so we can pull in and capture as much um department head feedback on their areas of operations to provide to the board. >> Okay. And so did we see you see this separately or was this in the packet? I apologize.
at her table laid it on. Okay. So, you've got one, too. Okay. All right. Thanks. >> Okay. Um, well, I can appreciate Mr. Sonnenberg's concern of trying to train people. Um, I question what we put on our website
and how much transparency and and I've always found our website very difficult to navigate and I don't know. So there was a gentleman a vendor this open gov and we use that for part of our >> the frontfacing uh financials. >> Yeah. Yeah. So I mean again maybe I'm
just not using it right or don't know the tools. So and he did ask for a quick uh you know 20 minute overview and maybe additionally because I said uh you were you were new Mr. Sunonnberg. So maybe after that we can somehow provide better and more timely information to our
constituents that have concerns with this. we have some watchd dogss in the community that want want to know and so maybe through that tool we can provide better information because unfortunately by the time we start talking well we talk levy early on but by the time we
set it there's there's not much flexibility and change I I would have to say it's pretty set in stone so I think that's what they're asking for if they can see things uh in a timely manner uh ahead of time and maybe that will be the tool um >> yeah correct um I think there's also and
a disengagement from open gov within the finance department just because of turnover >> and old information very some of it's very old >> um it's pulling current information that is in our financial um CRP so it is putting out information um and that is
working however I think the um the amount of utilization that we have in place is perhaps questionable and I would agree on that so you and I should probably communicate a little bit about um open gov and what dialogue I've had
to this point and the dialogue that you're looking to obtain >> and is it is it does it have value? I don't know. >> That that is my question as well because it it showed up on my email inbox as make a decision on whether we're going to use this or not. >> I used it just last week. >> Okay.
>> I use it I use it to get budget numbers when you could not speak to commissioner uh to commissioner veg's class. He asked me to come. >> Oh yes. I used it that day to get uh budgetary numbers so that I could say here's how much we're spending by department. This is what our biggest
okay item is and so maybe training on that would be >> or like it comes with some canned reports >> and it could perhaps have a canned report that was so that you could do this budget comparison by department. Okay. >> And find out what are our biggest departments and what is it we're
spending on. So I I apologize because I gave you the floor. >> No, that's fine. Yeah, just we're having a discussion here. No, and I do I can I can appreciate I guess I'm not sure the training aspect to you know what this
advisory committee might be. Um I'm I'm going to maybe kind of flip that and say really in reality these are should be experienced people that could relatively train us. That's what I'm looking for. I'm looking for the insight to help us not we train them. Now, I realize
they're going to have to figure some things out, but the idea is that, you know, the free help that this would provide would be to make our jobs easier. Um, you know, the it's I guess I have a little bit different vision of what I would expect out of this
committee to try to help rather than to just for oversight. Um, so I I I wouldn't want to push it under the table just based on that concept. I think the second thing that the realization of anything so I just I go
back to business is I create redundancy in what I do meaning that uh if somebody self-terminates and leaves it the company needs to go on the county needs to go on and who picks up the slack and how much time do you have and who has the oversight and understands the policies and the
procedures and all the way down to changing the toilet paper rolls got to be somebody's job. So at the end of the day, I look at it and say we have seen turnover in some of these. And so whether somebody decides this job isn't for me or unfortunately they get hit by
a bus and they're no longer with us. That is my common saying when in my business is that how do we keep going and having an advisory committee helps the next person get up to speed much quicker without putting it onto other
personnel's time frame. So it's both a safety net in one position and it's also advice back. The idea is to be a strength for our leaders to to give whether it's whether we take that advice
and do something with it. Um we used to call it spit spitballing. I mean we would get together with very wealthy people that develop land all around San Francisco. I mean, these people flew in on private jets all the way down to little guys like myself and get those giant post-it notes and we would put
literally a thousand ideas on the walls and start crossing them off and we might end up with two. It's how business planning works to run companies. It's how we are pushing a nine figure budget in this county. Let's think about that. That's a lot of money
to manage. And so any oversight from business professionals, public that's that's somewhat credited or validated to me would be I would love if a group of people would freely come in and help advise me. I would love it. I would invite it. You pick the spot and I will
show up. So at the end of the day, it's for me I don't want to sweep it under that. Although I can appreciate that the whole function of this board would be to protect us for change because we're going through that and then also to help us. That would be what I would want the
function of this board to be >> further discuss otherwise I have some thoughts. So the um when I went to the county 101 training from AMC um the main function of the county board
given to us uh by the powers of the state constitution are that we set the budget and we levy the taxes. And so in my mind that is the transparency that I am directly accountable to the people who vote for me. If they think that my
I'm setting a tax levy that's too high they have the right to vote me out of office. they have that for all of us. And I think that that provides more response and transparency than appointing some people who were not elected um to and asking them to make
decisions about the county finances. So from a a pretty fundamental standpoint, I don't think that uh it is more transparent and it doesn't give more openness to the uh to our constituency
to put some other opaque layer of appointed people in between there. Um I have been sort of making a list of the kind of the ideas behind why the impetus for this. So, I do think it would be
great to do more training, to do more informational sessions. Um, one of the Washington County Commissioners at the Micah meeting talked about how they don't just do truth in taxation, they actually have like a coffee hour in advance of that. That's more informal.
Um maybe that's a thing we should think about and not just doing it then, but maybe we should um try to have some other methods of kind of letting people understand how taxes work and I think that the tax
I mean our responsibilities are complicated enough right there's a training that we have to take to understand uh property taxes and how they work and a couple of us have to be certified to in order to have that meeting intergovernmental transfers.
This idea that um we have mandatory and non-mandatory services that maybe the HHS budget is 22 million 7 and a half of that is coming from the levy. The rest of it is intergovernmental transfers. I mean our financing is complicated and
government financing and county financing with respect to how the state government works is not just regular financing. So there's a special governmental set of um accounting rules that we have to follow. And so I I think that
we as commissioners, I am happy to make a commitment that we need to learn the ins and outs of all of that and we need to have meetings where we have those conversations and have like insight into those into those kind of nuances of how
county government works or how government works. But I I think what I'm hearing staff say is it's one thing to train us, it's another thing to have train a board of citizens.
And for this year, at any rate, I would like to focus on this. I guess we're calling it forward budget planning. That's what I would like to focus on. And I would like our staff to focus on giving us the insights that they've been
talking about. So I I don't support this extra committee. Um I do support kind of the ideas behind it that commissioners Ward and Elsinger have expressed and if there are ways that we can achieve those things I I would love to do that but I
I'm not sure that for my thinking this committee is the way to do it best. Mr. Alson >> duly noted and I can I can see that side. I think I think maybe the way I interpreted that was that what
is the function of this board which is the precedent of everything that was said afterwards because the first comment was that this was a board that would make decisions. I believe that's almost verbatim. This board is not here to make decisions. This board is just
simply to give advice. this board is simply to just have to to be able to look deeper than what say a common constituent might do to say hey we know a way to maybe do this a little bit better are you interested in hearing that way here's what it is the idea of
this is that a people that want to do community service that to look through the numbers to look through the policies and the procedures that are all public information anyway that are willing to donate their time to come back and say hey guys here's a to do something more
efficient or better. What do you think? It's not a decision board. But yet, I also disagree that, you know, we don't work that our sole job is that we we have multiple committees that we appoint. We just literally appointed a whole bunch of people to committees. So,
we do it all the time. So to just to throw this out and say it doesn't fit based on what our job is, we literally just passed a whole bunch of committees and and and volunteers that are on those committees that are non-elected officials that we receive advice from
and some of them get to in essence help dictate how we think almost directly such as our planning and zoning board. So um and should have a direct influence. that's why we put them into place because we don't have the ability to do everything ourselves. So at the
end of the day, I think if we fall under a narrative that this is is is a decision-making board, then yeah, I would agree with that. I don't think that's how we would frame this up. I really want this as an asset and a resource to both allow people in our
community that have major concerns to have a little more say and and allow some people that um are going to have the wherewithal to sit down and evaluate some things and help our employees help help the constituents understand better.
So I think it depends on how you perceive what this board is is going to determine whether you would support it or not. I would like to keep it in a non-decisionbased board just as all the other boards that we have ultimately we have to say. Um and it's no different
than a health advisory board. Are they making decisions for us? No. But the whole concept is how do we take that information and implement it to what we do? So, I I go back and one of the biggest things that I'm seeing is uh
turnover. Uh somebody brought that up a little while ago and turn over creates chaos. It creates turmoil and we know that. And so, this would be a a group of people that could help mitigate that turnover when we have it, whether it's self-induced or by accident.
I I I go back again as a business owner, if somebody came to me with this idea and said, "I'm willing to give you free advice." In the end, I discern what advice I want to take, but I sure as heck ain't going to turn it down. That's just ignorance. So, if there's a group of people that are willing to do this
that we can credit, that we can say, "Yes, this is what we want." I don't know. I think we'd be foolish to turn it down. And I know there's some people that are very offered to step up to the plate. >> Um, I'm on the fence on this because I can see the positive um positive
potential of a group like this. I also am concerned about how it could be loaded with people with political um they're they won't follow the facts. They come in with a already preset um conclusion and they're going to just use it as a sounding board to promote their
political views etc. It's going to be give them a platform to talk about this that I think there is a way that it could be could be productive and in the past we we had a finance committee. It was many years ago. Um Commissioner Ward were you on a committee with Commissioner Pomroy? Was it many years ago? No.
>> Did we have something like a finance committee? >> Yes, you were. >> Was that? >> Yes, you were. >> For a little while. Sorry. >> For at least a short while. So, there is the positive potential for it. And I I know that the board it took us almost two years to go ahead. >> No, no, you have a floor. >> Um, took us almost two years to create
the Veteran Services Advisory Committee and I and I understood that. Um, I can see Mr. Sonnenberg's point is I think he also needed to be given time to like just become more familiar with his own department and this monster called county government, etc. like um I I don't want to say no forever, but maybe
revisit it in June or so. And if Commissioner Warren and Elzing if you had like I was asked and made sense to give like like what do you have in mind with the veteran services committee, we meet twice a year. Um and it's it's a pretty this probably would meet I'm guessing more often, but I'm not sure.
But the idea of um and we could find people who would have time both from the private sector which is very important and also perhaps some people with government sector experience because the public sector is a very different accounting system but I can see why this could be potentially useful but not I'd
like to return to it in June. Give Mr. Sonberg some more time and see what he thinks. Um and if Commissioner Warren and Elen could develop more ideas about what it would look like I'll stop there. >> Commissioner Meyer. Yes. Um, so our
office conducted a survey of as many uh counties in Minnesota that we could get a response from and there we have yet to find a single county who has an external advisory uh members on a finance committee. They
have internal finance committees which include one or two commissioners. Um, we have not found any county that has all commissioners. Uh, but we have not found a single county yet that has external members on it. And I'm just sharing that
as information. Um, that's what I want to let you know. >> Mr. >> and great. Um, we pride ourselves on being one of the only companies that blends fertilizer the way we blend it. You know, at the end of the day, that's what keeps us in business.
So, I'm not afraid to start a new trend if it's a positive trend, and it's nothing alluding to that. It's just that means neither hair to me. It's it's what's right for us. Um, I think I think the big thing alluding to Commissioner Baggley's situation is this isn't
something that I have the intent to start on, you know, February 18th at 10 o'clock. It that's not the idea here. The idea is to start the ball in motion. you need some time to get your thing going. Great. But we've also had people
start and three months later they're out, you know. So now we just kick this thing down the road. Not saying you're doing that. I just it's the truth and I'm a realist. So the avenue is is that I'm trying to come up with ways that we can kill a bunch of birds with one stone without increasing our labor cost. And
if we have a group of people that are willing to put their heads together and help us out, do that because I am smart enough to know I'm not smart enough. That's what I am. Um, so I look for mistakes. I look for things not to fault people, but to learn and grow. So that's
what I'm after. And I just would hate to say, "Hey, we're going to start this six months down the road." Even if we can get a group together and say, "Look, this isn't we're not going to come out, guns are blaring here, and go after anybody. The idea is we start to brainstorm. What are some areas? What
are some things that we can do? How do we think we can help? How can we bring out information from the board to the community better? Is there a way that we can represent something better to help people understand why their taxes are going up? This is going to be a it's not an all-inclusive thing, but this is
where we need to get other people together to say, "What can we do to help? I do not want it to be a decision-based board." That it can't be a decision-based board. This is a this could be a very powerful way to manage everything better. And like I said, my
goal if I was in your shoes was to be number one, the most efficient county. I don't even want to be four. I want I would love to have that title if I was in that shoes. And to me, this is this is what I'm after. And and it not only holds the county board responsible, it
not only holds all the employees responsible, but now you kind of share that a little bit with his financial committee, which will probably be composed of some people that are respected or known. and now they're kind of on the hook a little bit too. So, this helps the community understand that
it's not just who we hire or who we elect, but it's also citizens that are not in those positions and that probably have a little bit of I don't I don't know what the right word is, but are known to say, "Hey, they're helping out, too." So, I just don't see the downplay. We don't have to floor this thing, step
on the gas, get in your way of learning, but I don't want it to go dead in the water, too, if we have people interested in doing it. So I guess my approach hearing everything is can we take a slow approach? Can we at least start looking for some people that might be interested outside of this group? We can have a few
brainstorms as to how we think but at least keep the ball moving in the right direction and as we can fill into your gaps as we can see some sort of element maybe officially put the board together and we could use a June timeline to that example. Hey maybe we have this try to organize it by June. It's not mandated.
It's not necessary, but we can also get more feedback. Is that a fair place to be? >> Oh, so I think staff really kind of needs a consensus. We won't take a formal vote, but I think they're probably keeping track of heads. So, I
still am opposed to this board. I think we have board who would like to see it move forward. Commissioner Begley, not yet. Not now. >> I am undecided. Um, I've not I would need more information, but again, I'm not asking it to stop just like I was asked to bring back more information
about the Veteran Services Committee if Commissioner Warren Elsie or others could bring back. I'm not saying yes. I'm not saying no. So, I'm somewhat on the fence, but >> are you still saying June? >> June is six months enough time. Um, Senberg, but if you need to like get a handle, that's a somewhat arbitrary
number, but it's not two months. Yeah, with all due respect, um, I will say that people that are successful privately do so in a private world, not a government business. So, I will say that I do not turn down free help, but this is a very different world to be
successful in when you cannot make decisions that are express. Um, as far as oversight, um, we are the oversight and when you start doing a dig a dig into it, we also have an OSA
office that has us following our own policies and procedures to the nth degree. And if we're not, we're told about it. >> I idea generation is not what I'm opposed to. I'm opposed to the ability of teaching the public that making
decisions to go forward in a p in a in a public government is not the same and if we say no because of this and that every time that also turns down some trust in what that committee is asked to do.
>> Uh so I just I do want to let you speak. So the point is I kind of wanted to weigh in with commissioner old feels about >> it. We've had this discussion before as a matter of fact I asked Marine if it's surpassed the one year to look back at it um which she did tell me that it it
has. So I I hear feedback from um I belong to the landlord association when a lot of property owners that own multiple properties um right in the heart of my district. They question me all the time. Um
I get them the information that they want. I don't know. So I would not support a committee just to summarize not deliberate. Commissioner Eling, and then I guess maybe we need you to weigh in again. >> Um, these are the words that I think are
getting confused. I've heard decision-based. I've heard oversight. I've heard these words thrown out which automatically gets scary. Don't tell me how to do my job. Don't make decisions for me. It's the classic. And that's not what this is about. It's
not about oversight. It's about help. It's about What can we do to improve a multitude of functions to the common questions of what answers do you need? What what would be the way to do this? How can we express this better?
I will stand on this podium because I've owned many companies and I've been involved in politics and government, mayor, county boards, sessions. I've sat on many, many board of directors. I've dealt with billionaires to poor people. It doesn't make a difference at the end
of the day. There's a lot of overlap in government and business period. You will never convince me of difference. So at the end of the day, we can institute some things. And what's crazy is often times it is business officials, business
people I should say, that are trying to come forth and say there are better ways to do this. Pay attention. One right across the street right there. They've done pretty well for themselves. And you know, at the end of the day, I think they're what we have is a group of
people that are saying, "Hey, we just want to be sure. We're not here to have oversight. We're not here to make decisions. We want to participate, but we don't know how to participate." And so they're asking for these types of things to happen because they see so
many other committees. I mean, think of all the committee. Look at the ones we just did. And they're saying, "Hey, we're willing to to pay attention. we're willing to help you out. We're willing to give you advice for free, which in my world I would love to have. So, when we look at audits,
um, understanding what audits is at a government level is completely different than auditing a business. And auditing a government isn't coming in and asking why did you spend $411.72 on a toolbox. That's not what an audit is in government. That's not the way
that works. So there is no oversight as to why are you doing what you're doing or how could we do it better? It's just simply are you following the rules. That's it. That's what the government is. Are you following in the parameters? We could talk about every audit we do here for cities for Whitewater Joint
Power Board for SWCD. In fact, I argued some of the audits audits on there because they set a threshold of $5,000 and they said, "How many transactions and things do we do under $5,000?" most of them are, you know, like when we have possessions and things on a shelf. So,
we need to tighten the audit up if we're going to keep track of things like that. So, audits in essence don't really do anything to help guide. They just simply say, are you following a policy? But they're not questioning the smaller things. So, I really do think for the sake of our constituents and the
transparency and the opportunity for them to feel involved, no different than so many other committees that we have, that I would say it would be I I'm going to make the case that we need to continue to try to at least implement this in. And I don't want to wait until
June to start it. I would like to have the ability to begin to work towards it and maybe by June we can slowly implement some of the things. >> Mr. Wley, >> I'm not sure people are hearing what I'm
saying. So I'll simply say at this time not at this time. I was trying to make some offers that are not being heard. So not at this time. >> Okay. So I um Mr. Ward >> uh Commissioner Alen has expressed it very very well. So, I think from my
perspective, I have some people that have been willing to volunteer and I will continue to seek out what they think that they could bring to the table, what their thoughts are that this would be. I am encouraged by this. Does this mean that as a county board we will
meet each month and and follow up on some of these things or this is all internal? This the first time I've seen this, the budget planning. >> Actually, there was an email that I fill out um sharing the information that was sent to leadership. Um, but this is a
recap of what was sent. So, the intent is for this board to again, if you're meaningful to doing so, is to meet um January, February, and March, and with
the intent of having a game plan, having some decisions for 2027's direction, excuse me, for the levy. so that we can start implementing in 2026 so that you're not going to see the large
increases in levy in 2027 and moving forward. As shared in previous meetings, we already know that we're above 9% in the items that we already know about for levy for 2027. So, we have a lot of work
to do. And so part of the the request of the board is to have working sessions every meeting in February for sure. We're trying to get as much together for the meeting in January yet, but in March
for you actually to give us direction. What what direction do you want us to do on the discretionary spending? We're still going to focus and look at the mandates. at what level of service do you want us to do that mandate? So,
there's a lot of discussion in the next couple of months that we're gonna ask the board. Yeah. >> Well, that's encouraging because sometimes I think we've not had as much as I would. So, I do appreciate that. >> I think we are going to be the committee start. But I am going to continue to ask private citizens what they feel they
could bring to the table, why they would want to be on this, what they feel their role is, and then if we can get this open gov, maybe like you said, um I haven't used it because I was always frustrated with it was in the past it was old outdated information. Maybe it's better now. >> There's of a tricky way you have to do
to get it to do the bar chart that shows the >> Okay. And I have not played with it. So it's my my onus to do that, but I'm not willing to totally give up on this. And I think I think official is right. I did misunderstand what he was saying. Um c could we re I mean in the in the interm
obviously we can do what we want as private citizens but in the interm um could we revisit this in is that what you were saying >> and have you have the two of you develop some like what what it would look like. >> Perfect. Because that gives us the opportunity to informally see what other people's want. Yes. I would love to be
able to do that. So I will 100% agree to that. >> Put it on a June. So we have three >> bill gather more information. Yes. Talk with the staff as well because what Miss Holty said is important. No other county that she has found so far has it. That's important. But also I agree with you
that's not a deal killer. I'm willing to do some things like we have higher standards when it comes to water quality. We have higher standards on some other issues as well. So for me it's not a deal killer. I'm I'm willing to go above and beyond when it comes to the possibility of additional transparency. The question is is it redundant and asking staff to do more?
But I'm also open to the idea if it's the right group of people structured in the right way that it's not just a loaded political group that's going to come in and prove their >> and it's hard to say that that doesn't exist in any of >> and I don't want any I don't want to do >> and we know it does but that's not the
idea here >> and I thank you very much. I I I know that I go back to what I said before. I'm not trying to pat myself in the back, but I'm smart enough. No, I don't have all the answers. And I would love in February to have a group of people say, "Have you thought about this trash?
Have you thought about this trash?" I welcome that. >> I agree with you. A wise person knows they know nothing. I I have a lot to learn about it. >> So, can we do we have do we have the ability to revisit this? >> Move it to a June >> committee of the >> But it doesn't guarantee. No, it's just
a revisit in June. >> Commissioner, if I may ask, >> as we did with the veterans uh committee item, could commissioner Elsene and Commissioner Ward put together their proposed uh
>> starting point, >> starting point, what the thoughts, etc. are and get it to me so that I can get clarification so that we can have a a more robust conversation about specifics at the next time. And I think the six-month time frame would help us do
that. And again, I just this isn't an immediate, like I said, shotgun. We got to get out here and hammer this thing. But, um, I love that idea. Thank you. And to be honest with you, I like it because it gives us time to do some things and and get some exactly what this board would do, some outside
information, >> feedback, >> feedback. And we would love to do that revisit in June. So, I think that's three, right? Three. And the idea is that at the same time it doesn't mean to preclude any of this work with this idea. >> We have to move ahead.
>> Yeah, for sure. And I like this idea. My only concern is if we're being asked to do things in March, the state part of what's going to drive our decisions is the state legislature, which that'll all happen at the end of May. >> Change, but we still already know 93% increase in levy with what we know now.
>> Well, that also assumes the Yes. But none of this is to stop this. This isn't let's get this thing going and make decisions for March. This is I want to set a precedent that we have another awesome resource to pull from perhaps indefinitely. one of the conversations I
mean we have almost half a million in discretionary spending through the CJCC all of which are fabulous programs and really save more money than we invest right but if we can find ways like Miss Sonan talked about earlier where we can actually get some of the additional work
let's say that restorative justice does reimbured that changes the equation and those are the conversations that I think we need to have particularly for programs that I'll just say that I love and I want going to keep but can we figure out ways to have alternative sources and administrator Holy and I had
this conversation I don't know it was probably a month six weeks ago and it was about what like I said earlier 20ome million 22 million is our HHS budget 7 to 8 million is coming out of our levy there are counties who have figured out
ways [clears throat] to get higher collections from the state for the work that they do what are they doing and that is the thing that I would rather have staff spend their I'm on is figuring out ways that we can if the states if they we can get more money from them to do the work that they're mandating that we do. Let's try and
figure out what it is that other counties are doing to do that. I agree with all those points and also agree with Commissioner Moore what you said earlier about there's so many any kind of project comes with so many grant requirements and reporting and we want accountability and transparency but at the same point there's a point when it
becomes so much it kills you have to hire people to administer something that fill out forms >> I agree so I agree with those points >> so do we need a motion on >> no we have consensus >> everyone kind of needs to say what they think
>> I'll bring one of my bobble bobbleheads. >> We're good. There you go. >> Perfect. >> The bobbleheads say no. >> They only say yes. >> Okay. Item 11.2 stops the shot gun zone repeal and we have discussed this
before, but Commissioner Ward wanted us to wait because the AMC >> did some surveys of counties and so there is some results from that in our packet on page 409. and everybody's all over the place and and that's why the Wabasha um group was here.
>> Commissioner, where did you want to start or can I start? >> Go ahead. >> Well, we don't need to answer the question right now, but I'd like to get from the other commissioners. Um I guess I have two questions. I have a lot of thoughts, but I'm going to try to condense it down to two questions. Do the commissioners need more information?
Um and if so, then we should have more public hearings. We should gather more information. Um uh the point is is that if people I feel prepared to to vote on the issue. Um but the point is is obviously we're not we're not going to make any binding decisions but if there
are not three people who want to move forward then I think what happens is we can save the staff a whole lot of time. Does that make sense? I guess do commissioners feel like they have enough information or commissioners not ready to vote not what but to express their opinion because we need three
commissioners to continue the process but if if we need more time and more information I don't want to stop that I also want to possibly save staff a lot of a lot of public hearings etc >> I feel ready to make it >> yeah the the reality of it is is we don't have to do anything
>> it's already done we're actually would have to make a vote to right >> resend to me I think that depending on what people said we could end today >> right to say I need to make a vote is to vote for changing it, right? >> Because we don't have to do anything >> to express you. >> Yeah. I mean, we can we can all avoid this topic and it's done indefinitely
because then we just assume what the state decided. Does that make sense? >> Sort of. But yeah, but we're agreeing is that I if people would not ne necessarily officially vote. This isn't a binding, but express where they're at. If people want more time, I don't want to squash that at all. But I feel I feel prepared to express my opinion. And to
me, it should only move forward if three people want to continue the process. I guess my my take on that is that you know this this isn't there's no board action required if we don't want to change anything which would mean rifles are allowed in Lona County we can just walk away from the issue and that's state statute so there's no decision to
be made other than do we want to allow and to me do we want to change it or do we want to allow a public hearing to officially give everybody a stance if they want to
do it on public record rather than the phone calls and I just got an email that popped up and you know the same thing that we've been doing. So, do you see where I'm going with that? >> Hear you and if people want more input and more public and if people commissioners want to hear more I'm okay with that. >> Yeah.
>> But I have a feeling that right now there's three commissioners and I don't know where Commissioner Olsson is at based on past comments and Commissioner Meyer and I don't mean to put words in your mouth but you mentioned you did some research looked at the facts etc etc. My sense is that maybe three of you
feel like there is not a need to so maybe we could discuss it but then end it today >> for this >> if you can see that you guys have a majority you're not used to you might be able to stop this >> going no I >> start talking
>> I guess I wasn't kind so the comment that I wanted to really make was it might be in our best interest because to have a public hearing so it's formal and we can make decision based on that. That would be what I would recommend. >> All right.
>> And I would agree and I have told people because early on we did we didn't have we've got we've all gotten bits and pieces of information and I have said I think it's too important of an issue not to hold a public hearing. I've said that's your voice to really and I've had people say, "Well, I'll wait for my
comments for the public hearing." Do I know where I'm leaning? Yes. U I I absolutely know where I'm leaning at this point in time. But I have uh told people I would hold a public hearing so that they could would have their opportunity to uh address the whole >> clarify which I'm I'm okay with that
completely okay but this would be not us asking the planning department to ask no just what we had earlier the only reason yeah the only reason we'd have to go to the planning is if if we would decide to do our own ordinance then that would require >> because then we'd have to look at
countywide zoned blah blah blah >> like a public forum to take input We can call it >> it is the opportunity for everybody to officially sound their opinion >> and that's what they've been asking >> and that's what they've been asking and I've been asked is there going to be public input when can I come I tell them
come talk to me suggest what >> so I would say Jan uh February we usually have our public hearings at night so I would say the 20 February 24th >> that's fair enough and I'm okay with that just I'm thinking ahead um I I foresee a room full of people do we want
to have it as part of county board meeting or have it as a separate Oh, let's do it with the board. >> No, with the board meeting up. >> We're going to have a room full of people. We're going to have We're going to have overflow. >> That's okay. Just hold it first. >> Sell refreshments. >> Sell refreshments. >> I think we're going to have a room full of people. I I >> Which is fine. Anticipate in order to
let people sit in here. Sometimes people get frustrated if they're out there, right? And they can't fit in here. >> We'll have to address that. We got technology. But I would say >> I think on the on the other side you can can potentially board that off in our conversations individually with
constituents and that word travels fast. You know how >> if they want to submit something >> I mean I can clearly say that >> reduce >> I have had it is 60 to1 people in favor of leaving the rifle. I mean, it is. Oh
my gosh, it's I've only had a couple people against it, >> right? >> And so, it' be hard for me to go against it simply on just the amount of people that have reached out. >> You want to do the 24 February 24th? Do we want to see it early like five o'clock or do
>> I'm okay with that. I would like staff to weigh in depending on whatever else gets on the agenda. you know >> well if we set this then they can curtail some of the hey we just passed everything this year in January so we don't shouldn't should have a very short consent >> agenda going
hasn't spoken on this issue >> my question would be so are we just doing this as a good nice gesture um if if if the intent as you say is we're just going to go with rifles um you've already decided
what your vote's going to be then why are we going to do this? I mean obviously it gives people a chance to talk but if the statute's going to go into effect uh then we are hamstringing our effort that we would have to have a planning
commission. We'd have to have an ordinance if we decide to go shotgun only. >> So we're kind of playing our showing our hand by doing this this late in the year. Um so the hunting system gamesmanship I mean I don't
>> we have by May >> commissioners um my understanding of the process or protocol is the board would decide if they want to have this move to the regular county board in which then you would vote on what your action would
be. So, I understand there's dialogue. You're discussing it, but just for protocol purposes, this would need to be put on a future >> general business. >> Like I said, there's we've got plenty of time to make the decision. I just I feel with the amount of people that have
reached out on this, it would just be fair even if it's considered an inconvenience. I guess I don't see it that way. But, you know, to listen that we've had rooms packed full of people wanting to talk about other subjects. So, um, but I bring I lwed that out in just disclosure that I was actually
surprised I was surprised living in one of the woodedest areas, literally our state park, of how many people reached out and said they were in favor for it. So, like I said, it's going to take a compelling something to change. >> Mr. Just a point of clarification. So,
if if you wanted to do a countywide yes, no, it would not necessarily need to be part of the zoning ordinance. you could use the zoning ordinance as a mechanism if you wanted to set up certain zones. Uh but if if if it's just a yes, you
know, if it's a no, we're going to go shotgun only, that would not necessarily need to move through the planning commission as a mechanism, you could just do a standalone ordinance. >> Like I said, it would be getting it into if we decided to break it down and make it more complex >> then then it might lend itself. I made
this remark because I I sat through a several hour uh city council public hearing um not too long ago and we had city council members that have prepared statements that they made their decision. So we wasted a lot of people's time including my own that you know to
give this input for no reason. >> Not about this topic though. It's a different topic, but it was, >> you know, we do have >> to be transparent and uh not waste people's time. So, >> somebody could change my mind.
[clears throat] >> Yep. Depends on who speaks. >> But I I will support giving the people the opportunity to speak, but I don't I don't support having a prepared statement ready uh prior to the meeting. >> So, it's a loaded topic. >> Yeah.
>> Yeah. Well, >> um >> get um that's why I was just concerned give people enough room and space and the ability because I is there are people we've heard some people and I've heard people with very strong opinions both ways. I've had very long conversations with people who feel very
passionately about this both ways. >> Um and for me um I'm going to disagree I think with the majority etc as of now but I'm still but my my perception was you have a majority. So if you wanted to give that time let's then let's do it
then etc. Um but okay so we'll so we'll the current proposal is to look at a February what was it >> 20 uh the board next board meeting in February 24th. >> So at the next general business meeting we would formally vote to decide to have
it if that's if unless there's something really urgent in February. >> I would be okay with that. That's not a motion. I guess >> consensus consensus could pass non-binding motions if it's to clarify percent just so the staff is clear because I want the staff to read. >> Clear.
>> I am clear. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Go ahead. >> Please proceed. Yes. >> And even if it makes it to there and we decide at the next meeting that this isn't relevant, it we can always just not have any meeting. And again, it just goes back to it is what it is. You know, we don't have to make a decision.
>> We'll hear from our constituents. >> That's what I'm saying. So change the decision. >> Exactly. So >> So the next item um >> No, thank you. No, I get it. I get it. >> To receive an update about the Winona Community Hub, there is the option. It
is now 11:30. You can stay till 12:30. >> You're okay going ahead. Otherwise, >> three hours into it. >> We could Is somebody here to do that? >> Uh that's me. >> Okay. >> Oh, okay. >> Um at the >> Miss I'm sorry. Did I there was nothing in the agenda other than the than the >> just the RFBA.
>> Perfect. Now, >> yep. The intent is just to give an update on the hub. Uh at the December 11th, 2025 uh county board meeting, there was a request for an update. Um so we did reach out to Winona Health. Um
due to turnover, um they are doing restructuring. They are still in existence. They plan to continue to have a hub moving forward. it's just going to look a little different. So, they uh currently have it moved under behavioral health.
Um we do have contact with behavior health on a regular basis. Um they are looking for additional funding, but uh they just wanted to relate that they still see the hub as a value not just to Winona Health, but to the community and
our collaboration efforts. So, they are moving ahead to keep the hub moving. So, I just wanted to give that update >> and I know maybe you can't answer this, but based on your correspondence, were they going to hire more staff because they had a large reduction and part of it was there's a variety of different reasons why there no longer as many
staff, I'll say it that way, as there used to be. Are they going to hire more staff? >> Yes, there part of their restructuring is evaluating what positions will there be and then to hire. And my understanding is they are well on their way to make that happen. I don't know
the exact titles of those positions right now, but I do know that they are working on it. >> Is it and again maybe um you can answer this um do you feel like they will be a because a lot of different local government agency government bodies and nonprofits began to look to them to
fulfill certain functions. My concern is that there was going to be all kinds of gaps or holes in our local social safety net. Is it your is it your perception maybe you can't answer yet. I don't want to force you that they'll still be able to provide those functions, but if not, that's was my concern is that if people
were expecting them to to do it and they're no longer able to do it, we need to know that so that we can adjust. And >> yes, my understanding is they are filling those needs. Um it looks differently, but they anticipate to continue it and not to have the gap.
>> They are working on that. But >> I'm sorry, one more thing. Sorry I apolog share it with us. >> I will do my best. >> Thank you. >> Of course. >> Question I would have is yeah what what are they going to try what holes and gaps are they trying to fill and is our
staff having input as to what they're looking to do. >> Um I mean I don't know. I I I don't know if they're looking at a very very small slice or are they looking at big picture or >> what is it they want to do? And of course, I think Winona Health always
needs to look at how they going to pay for it, you know, >> reimburse. >> Yeah. >> So, I don't know if we're at the table with the discussions. I mean, they're private entity. They can do whatever they want to do, but are they partnership? >> Yeah. >> I I know that we are having the
discussions because I meet with Michelle about every other week >> and we have these very kinds of discussions. >> Okay. I don't possess firsthand knowledge of everything that they have going on within their organization or where they're specifically heading. I'm
not at the table with that. >> Clarify, I'm not asking for things in writing for this is not meant to be a gotcha moment. >> Is that in the budget? >> We're not budgeting for new. >> That's all right. I'll just switch with you. >> It's not meant to be a budgeting. I thought that's not meant to be a gotcha
moment. It's meant to be just like clarity that I heard what was being said because this I've heard different versions of this gap. >> Yep. I understand. >> Thank you. >> Any further discussion on this topic? >> If not, I think >> Yeah, I don't even think we need to. We
can just adjourn the committee of the board. >> You may have lunch. >> We got We're not done yet. We're not yet. One more thing. >> We need to have the Winona County Regional Rail Authority. >> Oh, that's one right. >> Calling this meeting to order >> right here. The first order of business is election of office.
>> Oh yeah. Oh yeah. Yeah. Sorry. I was >> I would move to approve the same slate uh for 2026 as 2025 beer >> also. You would be the chair. You would be the vice chair. You would be the No, you would be the vice chair. You are the secretary treasur.
>> Okay. Is there a second to Commissioner Ward's motion? >> Second. >> Okay. Moved by Ward. Seconded by Elsing. Uh I printed this out. Now I can't find it. Um, >> so I want you guys to clear the tracks between 8:30 and 9:00 on every Tuesday
so I don't get held up by a train. >> Was there any >> or going home after the evening before this? >> Going home after the evening meeting sitting here for a train. >> Uh, any further discussion about the nomination of officers? >> Hearing none. All those in favor signify by saying I. I.
>> Anyone opposed say nay. Okay. Motion uh is approved of officers of the same. Okay. The next item is approval of agenda. >> Move to approve. Wait, no, wait. Just hold on a minute here. Commissioner Elsing, I think had >> wanted to have a discussion about the bin collapse and was there any feedback.
Railroad was called out on that. They had emergency crew. That was kind of the big deal. >> So, we'll put that under updates and communications on six with the bin collapse of adding it. >> Yep. >> Okay. And uh so, Commissioner Vegley other aside from that, he's approved to move to approve the agenda as it is.
>> Second. >> Okay. >> With a pop. >> Yep. Okay. Uh, Begley's moved. All seconded. Is there any further conversation discussion about the agenda? >> Hearing none. All those in favor signify by saying I. I. Anyone opposed? Okay.
Our agenda is set. Uh, we have minutes from the meeting from last year on January 28th. Um, hopefully you've all had a chance to read them. >> Move to approve the minutes. That's what I'm talking about. >> Okay. Ward approves. Uh, moves to
approve. Venley seconds. Any further conversation hearing? None. All those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. I. >> Is anyone opposed? >> Okay. Uh, appoint the member and the alternate to the joint powers board of the Great
River Rail Commission. And last year it was me and it was Commissioner Ward. And >> what do we get out of this? Well, so, uh, I do go to all of their meetings and I am currently the chair of that
commission and it is a joint partnership with the city of Winona and perhaps means something more to them than to us. It's really about promoting passion rail. Um the that commission was successful in lobbying and getting a
second Amtrak train which comes through the station. But as a part of that the state legislature approved about 19 million in track improvements including a bunch of work to be done on the switching yards that are like end up with trains back on Mano. So that work
is going to be happening this summer and then there's going to be some improvements of the the actual station the tracks for Amtrak at the station. So um the and they frequently talk about how the main reason that they were able to get the help from the legislature
from uh Jeremy Miller from Senator Miller really was because of the freight improvements. So >> yes, >> should we ask Mr. Kramer? You're part of it. >> Hey, that's a great idea. Any thoughts or issues? >> One of those deals >> thoughts or issues
>> regarding the rail authority? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. The the as uh Commissioner Meyer mentioned, it's a partnership with the city of Winona where the the the uh city of Winona actually pays half of what would otherwise be Winona County's dues. um the the the counties that are along
the uh essentially along the railroad tracks in Minnesota. Um you know, it's this is a very whole group of counties that's that's involved in this. Um I think it's it's uh very beneficial overall from a uh an engagement and
moving things forward in a good good direction. I think that the uh regional railroad authority does uh rather this uh the great river rail commission um does does great work and is a is a good advocate and and has as has been
mentioned when you know when issues come up when this group as a group of counties can weigh in it really moves the needle. >> Gotcha. And I apologize. What I was trying I was trying to do was is that something you wanted to share? You came all this way. I assumed it was for this meeting. It is for this meeting. Um, I
serve as the executive director for this, so I thought I should be here. Okay. >> Yeah. Can we put a wheelage tax on them? >> To my knowledge, that is not authorized under law. >> We could ask, right? >> You can ask for the law to be changed >> on a train that come through here. And such that would be a big chunk of
change. We wouldn't have to charge much. >> Charge them by weight then we'd really get money. >> Yeah. Because it it is a convenience and sometimes it's in an inconvenience. Do we have a report where where are the Amtrak numbers and such? >> Yes, we get those every month and I can send them to you if you want to see
them. >> Are they in the meeting? I don't remember seeing >> but I haven't looked hard. I mean, >> no, we get them from a representative mindot. Okay. >> Who gets them from Amtrak and they're by station. So, okay. >> How many people are using the Redwing station? Our station.
>> Has it really is it up increased? >> Oh my goodness. You know, they took away some cars after the pandemic. Yeah. >> And so we have more demand than there is seating space on the borealis. Yeah. >> And so one of our big complaints with them is give us more cars.
>> Um and the state is sort of trying to work out a deal where maybe the state would invest some money in some rolling stock. So >> Okay. Because yeah, the Amtrak trains do look pretty small. I mean >> the borealis. Yeah. >> Seen them going down the >> Anybody ever take them? >> I have. Yeah, I have. many years
>> in Chicago stayed overnight went downtown stayed at the international you know got to the big station >> almost missed breakfast because late >> so and that that is one of the issues with the the empire builder is the one that comes all the way across the country to Chicago this one only comes
from St. fall. It's on time. >> That's on time. >> But the other one ends up because of the snow and >> we wrote it backwards because they had a snowstorm that couldn't get through the mountains. So there was a guy on there from New York. He had been on the train for three weeks.
>> Three weeks. Three weeks. My god. >> Okay. Well, all right. So, I would be willing to be the member and Commissioner Ward, would you remember the alternate? >> I would agree to be the alter. >> Does anyone want to make a motion? I'll move to um appoint Commissioner Meyer
and then Commissioner Ward as the alternate to that commission. >> There second. >> Second. >> Okay. Olsson seconds. Any further conversation about it? >> Hearing none. All those in favor signify by saying >> I I opposed. >> Okay. There we go. Um so item six,
updates and communications. Mr. Elsing question. >> I just was curious was there would I guess anything come across in your meetings minutes? Uh obviously with the men up in St. arrows that you know they sent in. It was amazing how fast their response crew got there. That was crazy. And the equipment they showed up with.
That was pretty impressive. So >> I apologize. What rail line was that then? That's the >> I don't know. I don't know who owns that. >> They changed names. No, >> it's >> okay. They >> I don't know if they released anything or said anything. I mean, there's still car lane on the tracks, but um was
anything heard? Nothing. >> Uh that isn't really in the perview of the Great River Rail. So don't didn't hear about it there. >> I didn't know. I didn't know if it is or isn't what I'm just it was just a >> that's free. That's right. Yeah. We don't >> first of all that Canadian Pacific >> What's CP?
>> CPKC is Canadian Pacific Kansas Southern. So Canadian Pacific bought Kansas Southern and so they're now now doing business as CPKC. >> The East West line through the county there that goes through St. Charles is DME.
>> So technically it's still owned by DME. So it's DME doing business as CPKC. It was formerly Chicago Great Northwestern >> CPCs. Yeah. >> But it it it probably DME is probably was was quite a long time. It was it was that they were proposing the you know
the increasing the uh cars for trade uh for for coal trains a number of years ago. That was a big halaloo and then that market kind of fell away. >> I was just curious. I was just bringing it up. >> Yeah. Okay. >> Yeah. Yeah. The railroad was was involved as was Winona County Emergency Management, Sheriff's Office, and the
St. Charles Police and the St. Charles uh fire. They evacuated the nearby uh the the uh grocery stores immediately next to that where the the collapse was taking place. And then they also evacuated the uh hardware store and then Dollar General, which was across the
street. Out of you know, I would say an abundance of caution. um basically um evaluated things, took took it down, uh got the tracks cleared off and moved on. >> Okay. >> No, no one no one was hurt.
>> While you're here, is there any with um because this is primarily passenger, but is there any plans for any crossing upgrades throughout the county? I know a couple years ago we did something out by the Udica shop significantly. Is there any? There is there is one and the the
on on this rail line right at the very west edge of Winona County west of the fairgrounds. There's a crossing right there. That one is slated to get uh gates and lights. >> Okay. >> Um I think that's scheduled for this summer, possibly next summer.
>> It's actually in city. >> It's a city street. >> Street. >> That's that's it goes north south there between Highway 14 and then the road that runs behind the fairgrounds which used to be a county road no longer is. Just curious. >> Um, in addition to that, the option with the east end with the overpass, that's
the only way through it, right? That's primarily a city issue, right? >> Yeah. Don't see that ever happening. >> They'll tie it in with the police and fire make it $200 million project. >> I Well, they were talking about it number of years ago because then there was federal money to do it.
>> Nonetheless, it was still pretty big. >> I'm waiting for roundabouts in the trains. You know, there have them in the big cities. Let's put a roundabout. >> Motion to adjourn. Yeah. Is there a second? >> Second. >> Okay. Miss uh motion by Commissioner Elsing, seconded by Commissioner Olsen to adjourn this meeting.
>> Any further discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor, please signify by saying I. I. >> Is there anyone opposed? >> We are. >> So, where are we putting the lighted stop sign? >> You don't likeed stop signs. Got to circle back to your