The most discussion centered around the approval of annual building code contracts for 2026. A commissioner voiced strong opposition, citing a financial burden on taxpayers, estimated at a loss or extra cost of $250,000 for the year. The commissioner questioned the necessity of retaining the building inspection department, emphasizing that it serves only part of the county and contributes to what they deemed unnecessary expenditures. The commissioner articulated, “We’re at, I believe, 2 to $250,000 of a loss or extra cost to the taxpayers this year.”

Clarification was sought by another member, who inquired whether the objection was against collaborating with communities or against the existence of the building code administration and inspectors. The initial commissioner clarified their support for collaboration but questioned the justification for the associated costs. In response, another commissioner noted that the county had received $343,000 in revenue from city and township contracts for building permits, which did not fully cover the operational costs. It was mentioned that staff must be present to handle all 21 townships, as both the townships and the county have adopted the Minnesota State Building Code.

Further analysis involved the historical context of city contracts and the need for comprehensive tracking of time and revenue related to city versus township contracts. A concern was raised about the county’s substantial reliance on levy funding, which constitutes nearly 50% of the budget, higher than the 11-county average of 40.52%. This prompted discussions on exploring different approaches to reduce dependency on levies while still meeting community needs without imposing a 20% increase. The conversation also covered the importance of permits for construction projects due to insurance requirements, highlighting that high permit fees could discourage compliance and lead to issues later on.

In addition to building department issues, the board discussed commissioner wages and Per Diem (PDM) rate adjustments. A proposal for a 3% wage increase for commissioners was made, raising wages from $25,417 to $26,181. This proposal was supported by a wage study indicating that Goodhue County commissioners are slightly underpaid compared to peers in other counties. The motion passed without opposition. Discussion around PDM rates included suggestions to modify payments due to the nature of multiple meetings occurring on the same day. Current PDM rates stand at $100 per day, but proposals were made to increase this to $125 for meetings exceeding four hours. This was in response to concerns about adequate compensation for committee members involved in evening meetings for planning and adjustment committees.

Another topic was the reinstatement of the Veteran Service Office’s ride-share program, which had seen a decrease in driver availability. The program, which provides approximately 500 to 600 rides annually, lacked additional drivers from the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) program. A motion was made to reinstate the program for one year with a projected budget of $50,000 while exploring further options with the VA and DAV.

Additionally, the board reviewed the first completed application for a cannabis business under new state regulations. The board had limited cannabis retail establishments to one for every 12,500 residents, allowing a maximum of four in the county. The application from Floroscura LLC was discussed and approved unanimously, having met all zoning requirements set by Lake City.

In terms of budgetary planning, discussions involved the potential exchange of federal funds with Wabasha County to streamline project processes for both counties. While some members expressed skepticism about the immediate benefits to Goodhue County, the notion of regional collaboration was emphasized as a long-term advantage. The 2026 budget and levy discussions included a preliminary levy set at $48,261,504. Rising personnel costs, healthcare expenses, and new state and federal mandates were cited as contributing factors. The board recognized the need to balance the levy increase with potential impacts on county services.

Finally, the meeting addressed a proposed housing authority levy, structured into three components, totaling $386,940. Approval was given to issue a Request for Proposals for the housing trust fund, with potential commitments reaching around $300,000. The meeting concluded with discussions on emergency medical services funding and a proposed merger involving the Union Pacific Railroad and Norfolk Southern, highlighting strategic transportation considerations for the county.