The audit presentation was a focal point of the meeting, where the county auditor provided an overview of the 2024 financial audit. The audit yielded an unmodified or clean opinion, highlighting no major issues, but it did point out material weaknesses related to internal controls and financial reporting processes. The auditor noted deficiencies in areas such as segregation of duties, common among smaller counties, and emphasized the need for timely detection and correction of these issues. The audit revealed that while revenues exceeded expenditures by $5.6 million, resulting in a fund balance increase of over $6 million, some funds like the road and bridge fund faced challenges with expenditures surpassing revenues.

The board also engaged in an important discussion regarding the Truth in Taxation (TNT) insert, which informs the public about proposed levies, including the county’s share of an airport-related levy. Benton County’s contribution amounts to $123,656, translating to an approximately $5 annual increase for the median-valued home. This sparked concerns about public engagement, as recent meetings of the airport authority had minimal attendance. The board expressed frustration over the lack of community involvement in discussions impacting taxpayer finances, stressing the importance of clear communication about ongoing and future projects.

A significant part of the discussion revolved around the authority of the airport board, composed of unelected officials with the power to impose taxes across multiple counties. The board considered the possibility of placing a cap on this taxing authority to mitigate concerns. Additionally, the transparency of the new taxing district for the St. Cloud Airport Authority was addressed, with plans for a separate public meeting to discuss these changes.

In line with infrastructure improvements, the board deliberated on updating the county road safety plan, which has not been revised since 2010. The update aims to compile new crash data, identify current safety issues, and attract federal funding for safety projects. The estimated cost for this update is $138,480, with a portion covered by a grant, requiring a local contribution of about $27,696. The board discussed entering into a MINDOT agreement, committing to a 20% local match for funding, which could unlock substantial federal contributions for future safety projects.

Moreover, the board examined the impact of a potential federal government shutdown on local projects, particularly the Gilman project, which experienced delays due to closed USDA offices. Concerns about timely payments to contractors were raised, with the board emphasizing the importance of their compensation despite federal reimbursement uncertainties.

The meeting also touched on various community concerns, including ditch maintenance issues, where public input was encouraged. Quotes for the removal of obstructions from County Ditches 10 and 11 were reviewed, with a decision made to proceed with maintenance work to address flooding and blockages. Additionally, the possibility of implementing a general sales tax for ditch maintenance was discussed, though it was noted that such a measure would likely require a public referendum.

Other notable discussions included updates on the Highway 23 project, with funding concerns due to a lack of unanimous municipal support. A significant approval for a large dairy operation near Gilman was also granted, and the board participated in a successful bonding tour presentation, engaging with legislators to advocate for county projects.