In addition to this, the board addressed several topics, including the allocation of public safety funds, employee compensation adjustments, and budget proposals.

The allocation of the remaining public safety funds to the proposed 2025 budget was a major focus. Clay County received $942,000 from a $300 million public safety funding provided by the legislature. The commissioners were briefed on the recommendations from a Public Safety Committee on how to use these funds. The proposal was to allocate any remaining funds to the sheriff’s department budget for 2025 to help mitigate potential tax levy increases. The motion to approve this request passed unanimously, with commissioners praising the collaborative effort in determining the best use of the funds and noting positive feedback from constituents.

Human Resources Director Darren Brooks presented findings from a recent compensation market study, revealing that the county’s pay grid was calibrated at 5% under the market average minimum rates and 2% under the maximum rates. This study aimed to provide a snapshot of the current market conditions and considered factors such as tax capacity, population, revenues, and expenditures to evaluate the county’s standing against its peers. Several positions were graded differently after the market study, leading to adjustments that would be reflected in the upcoming payroll.

Three options for further adjustments to employee compensation were discussed. The first option proposed a 3% cost of living adjustment (COLA) across the board, which would result in a total of 6% when combined with the previously allocated 3% for the following year. This adjustment was estimated to cost approximately $1,747, impacting all employees equally. Commissioners expressed strong support for option one, emphasizing the importance of meeting commitments made to employees during negotiations. They viewed this option as the most beneficial and responsible course of action for both employees and the county’s long-term financial health.

Another topic was the budget presentation by Dale Arnold, the District Supervisor for probation, outlining the impacts of the new state funding formula. The formula aims to reimburse counties for expenditures tied to community supervision and related services for individuals involved in the justice system. Clay County is expected to receive approximately $520,000 in funding, with monthly installments contributing to this figure. Arnold highlighted the increase in both misdemeanor and juvenile cases, which would be reflected in the upcoming state funding formula review in 2024. The county’s financial responsibility involves covering 50% of the calculated reimbursement amount.

Additionally, there were discussions about adjustments to the positions of two correctional sergeants and an HR coordinator. The proposed adjustments were set to take effect on August 3 and passed unanimously.

Commissioner Krabbenhoft reported on discussions from a board workgroup meeting focused on the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) and its housing program. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the pandemic, particularly the rental moratorium that led to increased evictions and property damages. A levy approval amounting to approximately $350,000 was requested from the HRA.

Further discussions took place regarding the Lake Agassiz Regional Library’s salary survey and negotiations with labor units to address disparities in employee compensation. The quarterly partnership for community health board meeting reviewed issues surrounding vacation rental fees in Otter Tail County and provided updates on finance and staffing.