1:45:49The proposed project, a joint initiative between Clay County and the state, involves repurposing existing juvenile center spaces and constructing a new 40-bed non-secure juvenile facility. The design features a two-story building with housing pods, therapy rooms, and classrooms, integrating residential aesthetics to create a non-institutional environment. This development is poised to meet the needs of juveniles requiring psychiatric care, as well as those in transitional housing.

1:24:54With an estimated cost of $26,349,330, the project includes both hard construction expenses and soft costs like architectural fees and equipment. Commissioners noted that the financial strategy leverages alternative funding sources, such as grants from Solutions Behavioral Health, to minimize the county’s financial burden.

2:03:56The proposal has undergone adjustments following legislative feedback, emphasizing the need for a strategic financial dialogue with the state. While the requested funding appears substantial, it is positioned as a cost-effective alternative to constructing a new facility from scratch. The expansion to 24 beds, including six secure beds, responds to state health department recommendations and aims to fill a crucial gap in available juvenile treatment options.

The establishment of the facility is anticipated to address service gaps for youth across Minnesota, fostering optimism about its potential impact.

A key aspect of the project involves compliance with state-mandated B3 sustainability requirements, which have driven costs from an estimated $500,000 to $1 million. These mandates include geothermal heating and cooling systems and a groundwater retention system, contributing to energy efficiency and long-term financial benefits for the county.

0:02In addition to the major juvenile facility project, the board addressed several other topics. An update on the Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in deer near Holly raised public health concerns. The area wildlife supervisor reported the first positive CWD case in the county, emphasizing the need for increased testing and potential adjustments to hunting limits to manage the disease spread. The board considered implementing a feeding ban to reduce deer contact, which is vital for controlling the disease.

0:28The commissioners also discussed a tax increment finance (TIF) district extension request for the Morehead Center Mall redevelopment. The project spans nearly 18 acres and requires extended eligible expenses from five to ten years to accommodate its complexity. The board unanimously approved a letter of support for the TIF extension, acknowledging the project’s importance in revitalizing the area.

42:46Further, the board deliberated on financial commitments to the Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Corporation (EDC). Concerns were raised about the timing and effectiveness of a $185,000 funding request for the Innovate 28 initiative. Members voiced dissatisfaction with the EDC’s representation of Minnesota’s interests and suggested delaying half of the payment pending clarity on fund utilization and potential state matching funds.