07:11The STS program, a fixture in Goodhue County for over 35 years, is experiencing a significant transformation due to the state’s withdrawal of financial support. Previously, the program was partly funded through a shared-cost model with the state, which began as a 50/50 split before shifting to a 75/25 split in 2010. The county now faces the challenge of continuing the program with reduced resources. The state plans to replace the existing model with an Institution Community Work Crew (IQIC) program, which will exclusively involve incarcerated individuals from the Minnesota Correctional Facility. This shift necessitates a reduction from three to two crew leaders effective July 1, 2024, while the IQIC crew will be contracted to work 20 hours per week until June 2027.

14:49The absence of the program may drive a punitive rather than rehabilitative approach, leading to financial penalties replacing meaningful community service. As the board examined potential solutions, three main options emerged: creating a new STS program under the court services model, increasing public works staffing, or outsourcing tasks to contractors.

23:14The first option, proposed to retain the STS program internally, would involve hiring additional full-time equivalent employees (FTEEs) and crew leaders to supervise seven-day-a-week operations. This approach would also establish a halftime STS coordinator position to manage over 400 administrative supervision cases, potentially increasing participation. The estimated budget for this option included approximately $206,650 for crew leaders’ salaries and benefits, alongside $94,482 for the STS coordinator. The county would also have the opportunity to acquire existing equipment from the state, with smaller tools transferred at no cost, while larger equipment would require a fair market value purchase.

Another option discussed was the hiring of public works FTEEs, with an estimated cost nearing $271,000. This proposal included additional expenses for equipment, such as computers and a one-ton truck estimated around $80,000. While potentially less expensive, this option risked reducing the scope of services provided. Outsourcing work to contractors was considered the most costly solution at an estimated $247,000, excluding the services the remaining county crew would continue to perform.

33:08The commissioners considered the impacts of potentially subsidizing townships for services provided by the STS program, as current fees might not cover the actual costs incurred. They acknowledged that Goodhue County was not alone in facing these challenges, as other counties were also grappling with similar funding cuts and were interested in Goodhue County’s decisions.

24:49Discussions also delved into the program’s integral role in supporting local fairs and community service projects. The STS program has been a critical labor resource for events such as the Goodhue County Fair and the Cannon Valley Fair. These events have historically relied on the program for setup, operational support, and cleanup, saving substantial financial resources in the process. However, due to the changes this year, fairs have had to hire additional personnel to replace the work previously completed by STS crews, impacting their budgets significantly.

There was a consensus among commissioners on the need to preserve the STS program, recognizing its value not only to community projects but also to the morale and rehabilitation of participants. The opportunity for inmates to engage in community service was noted as a positive influence on behavior within the jail, fostering a more constructive environment. Concerns were also raised about the potential for issues like property damage and behavioral problems if the program were eliminated.

01:00:58A point of discussion revolved around the staffing structure necessary to sustain the program. The board was urged to act swiftly, given the availability of a prospective crew leader and potential candidates from the jail. However, there was acknowledgment that a seamless plan was lacking, with calls for clear direction from the county board. Participants highlighted the need for a plan, emphasizing that enthusiasm alone would not suffice for a functional rollout.

40:11Financial considerations were also an aspect of the meeting. The possibility of charging for services provided by the STS crew was debated, with suggestions for a fee structure for smaller crews.