The meeting began with a detailed presentation by the Crow Wing County Historical Society. A board member expressed gratitude for the county’s financial support, which has been pivotal in the society’s various projects. The executive director outlined significant achievements from 2025, such as the restoration of a Northern Pacific Thai plant locomotive and the painting of historical buildings. These efforts were made possible through generous community donations and have drawn increased visitor numbers to the fairgrounds.

A traveling exhibit titled “Why Treaties Matter” engaged over 300 community members and was later moved to the museum. Other initiatives included a new exhibit on the Brainer Ladies Band and a social media campaign for Women’s History Month, both executed cost-effectively.

The society’s collaboration with a retired archaeology professor led to the identification of over 700 pre-contact pottery items in their collection. These artifacts, dating from 500 B.C.E. to 1100 C.E., are part of a broader effort to expand educational offerings. The society reported a 25% increase in visitors and school group tours in 2025, highlighting the success of their recent initiatives. They also hired a collections manager who digitized a backlog of 1,300 items, improving operational efficiency.

Looking ahead to 2026, the society plans to continue its internship program, complete an exhibit on the village of Old Crowing, and update its website. A membership drive is planned in anticipation of the society’s 100th anniversary in 2027, with a new partnership with Brainer Public Schools focused on Indigenous education being explored. Financially, the society maintains a balanced budget, although they are considering modest increases in admission prices and membership fees.

The commissioners then turned their attention to a proposed amendment to the county’s fee schedule, prompted by the emergence of low potency hemp licenses. The administrative services director explained Minnesota’s statutory requirements for registering these licenses and performing compliance checks, similar to those for tobacco and alcohol. The proposed registration fee for low potency hemp was set at $125, lower than fees for cannabis products. A public hearing on these amendments was scheduled for early February.

The board also received an update on dispensaries in the county, noting that one is currently licensed and operating, with several others in neighboring cities.

The conversation shifted to the challenges surrounding sober home oversight. Concerns were raised about the lack of regulation and accountability for these facilities, particularly in light of community complaints. One commissioner expressed frustration with state oversight and financial mismanagement within the Department of Human Services. Despite these challenges, team members engage with sober homes to address issues, although the current oversight structure’s limitations were acknowledged.

The meeting concluded with an update on the county’s burial policy. A supervisor in income maintenance explained the need to update the policy in light of increased medical examiner fees for cremations. The proposed changes were met with little resistance, and a preference for inclusion in the consent agenda was expressed.

Additionally, the closure of Carefree Assisted Living in Brainerd was discussed, with efforts underway to facilitate resident placements. Staff have been working to ensure proper care and compliance with health requirements during the transition, despite potential financial challenges posed by the facility’s status.