The board’s discussion centered on the crucial federal grant application, which targets safety improvements on Highway 371 through Baxter. Emphasizing the collaborative efforts with local cities, the board noted the importance of securing this funding to implement necessary safety measures. The grant would fund projects identified in a detailed safety study, addressing both short-term and long-term solutions to reduce serious and fatal crashes. The engineer highlighted the significance of the grant, noting that substantial safety improvements had not been achieved in years and that this opportunity could bring much-needed advancements.

Board members inquired about potential financial implications for Nisswa and Baxter, should cost-sharing become necessary. Representatives from these cities confirmed their preparedness for any financial commitments. The timeline for grant award notification is expected by June, with projected construction slated for 2028 or 2029. The area ranks among the top three in the state for this grant.

In related discussions, the board addressed a problematic intersection near a local Menard’s, included in the 371 safety study. A suggestion was made to consider adding a stop sign to improve navigation, with the intersection undergoing evaluation for improvements.

The approval of the federal RAISE Grant application for 2025 was achieved unanimously. Additional regional projects, including work on Washington Street and an interchange at 210 and 371, were noted as critical components in the broader safety enhancement strategy.

The meeting also highlighted a positive incident involving the County Sheriff’s department, which successfully located a missing woman on New Year’s Day through a coordinated search involving multiple teams.

In other board actions, routine administrative matters were addressed, such as the approval of printing and publishing bids for the 2025 financial statement. The decision to award the Brainerd Dispatch and the News Hopper identical bids for publication was resolved through separate motions, each passing without dissent.

The board also discussed a resolution outlining conditions for closed meetings, addressing topics like labor negotiations and employee performance evaluations. This resolution was approved unanimously.

Further, the board established rates for meeting expenses, approving an annual resolution that set compensation for appointed citizens on advisory committees. Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment members were designated higher rates due to additional responsibilities requiring site visits.

The board proceeded with appointments to the 2025 Association of Minnesota Counties delegate and policy committees, selecting commissioners based on expertise and experience, particularly in public safety areas. These appointments were finalized without opposition.

A notable appointment to the Crow Wing County Housing and Redevelopment Authority required board action, resulting in a new representative being appointed while recognizing the outgoing member’s contributions with a certificate of appreciation.

Citizen committee appointments were also addressed, with the board confirming reappointments and new appointments based on a review of candidates. The chair noted a vacancy on the airport commission, receiving substantial interest, and appointed a suitable candidate from the pool of applicants.