07:44The board dedicated attention to the issue of compensation for county officials, addressing both immediate and future needs. A personnel committee had reviewed the roles of the county attorney and sheriff, concluding that their contributions warranted a 3% general wage increase along with merit-based raises. These adjustments were justified by the substantial caseloads and leadership roles both officials have undertaken. Following a thorough discussion, the board unanimously approved the pay increases, emphasizing the need to maintain competitive compensation to retain skilled personnel in these demanding roles.

11:22Additionally, the board tackled the wages of commissioners themselves. A resolution was passed to increase commissioner salaries by 3%, aligning them with cost-of-living adjustments granted to other county employees. The board discussed the importance of attracting younger candidates to local government, noting that competitive wages could help counter the trend of unopposed elections. This motion also received unanimous support.

18:29The meeting also focused on financial management, notably the approval of fund transfers related to projects funded by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) money. The board discussed two key projects: the Government Center Master Plan phase one implementation and the Administrative Human Resources Room 308 upgrade. With costs amounting to $287,700 and $27,712 respectively, the board authorized a $55,500 transfer from the general fund to replenish capital fund balances.

21:34In line with financial oversight, the board reviewed fund balance designations as of December 31, 2024. The discussion focused on the appropriate categorization of funds, particularly in light of the unique scheduling of the county’s 27th payroll due to New Year’s Day 2025. The board agreed on the proposed changes, including the removal of the Bill’s by Park and trail balance, following the completion of the Richard Samson Pavilion. The motion to approve these changes was passed unanimously.

24:08The board also acknowledged the immense effort put forth by the county’s election staff during 2024, as detailed in a presented memo. Goodhue County administered four elections, including the presidential nomination primary and the state general election. The staff logged 759 hours of overtime, with additional support from county employees and public volunteers. The board expressed gratitude to the election staff for their dedication, particularly in light of a 90% voter turnout during the general election. This acknowledgment highlighted the board’s appreciation for the vital role elections staff play in upholding democratic processes.

29:31Finally, the board addressed the 2025 budget and levy. The preliminary budget had been set in September, with a levy of $44,572,455. Acknowledging the challenges involved in budget management, the board approved the budget and levy with a vote of four to one. This decision was complemented by a report from SEMRA’s executive director, Buffy Bank, on the levy budget request, which paralleled the preliminary levy and included a focus on the Housing Trust Fund. The board voted in favor of this request.