A major highlight of the meeting was the approval of a resolution advocating for $60.4 million in state funding for the Fargo-Moorhead Diversion Project. The project is part of the county’s legislative priorities and aims to address flood protection needs across both Minnesota and North Dakota. The board emphasized the urgency of securing funds to prevent delays in critical flood mitigation projects, which are essential for safeguarding communities like Georgetown and surrounding areas. Commissioners expressed concern over potential construction delays contingent on state funding. The board noted that discussions with state representatives, including the governor, had been ongoing.

The meeting attendees acknowledged the active involvement of the diversion board chair and the new executive director in advocating for this funding, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration with state officials to ensure project certifications and floodplain management goals are met.

In addition to the diversion project, the board engaged in discussions on various conservation and education initiatives. Updates from the Soil and Water Conservation District revealed the completion of numerous projects under the One Watershed, One Plan initiative, aimed at addressing erosion issues along local waterways. Last year, 14 projects were completed with $514,000 spent on these efforts, leveraging federal funds to maximize resource allocation. The district maintains a 99% compliance rate for buffer law adherence, although a few sites await determination from the Department of Natural Resources.

The board also explored urban conservation efforts, including native plant workshops and a water festival collaboration with fourth graders. Other notable conservation programs discussed were the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program and the Walk-In Access Program, both facing challenges due to uncertainties with federal funding.

Technological advancements within the county were another focus, with updates from the GIS and Communications Department. The department has improved its section corner identification system using a Bureau of Land Management model, facilitating efficient document searches. A new map application will soon be launched. The county’s remonumentation program, funded at $42,000 annually, continues to progress.

Efforts to bolster cybersecurity were highlighted, following the appointment of a new cybersecurity analyst. The county aims to improve service delivery through process automation and digital services, including online payment capabilities. The department also plans to enhance the economic development website, improving visibility for business and residential opportunities.

The board further addressed technological infrastructure improvements, noting a transition to primarily using laptops as a cost-saving measure. Plans for ongoing security enhancements and infrastructure replacements were discussed, alongside a new five-year contract for local and long-distance services projected to save the county approximately $800,000 monthly.

The meeting also featured discussions on amending the county’s tobacco ordinance, particularly concerning vaping regulations. A public hearing was scheduled for March 18th to gather community input on potential amendments. Commissioners emphasized the importance of clear communication to the public regarding the hearing’s focus on amending, rather than creating, an ordinance.