06:14Director Heather Jeseritz of the United Community Action Partnership (UCAP) presented an update on the emergency shelter unit project on Wilmer Avenue, a topic of considerable interest to the board. Jeseritz described the need for these shelters in response to the county’s rising homelessness and housing shortages. Over the past year, UCAP secured significant funding to develop modular units through a partnership with Marcus Construction and Northstar in Redwood Falls. The project is progressing quickly, with eleven units currently being constructed. One unit will serve as an on-site office to provide case management services to families, addressing barriers such as employment and education.

Board members were supportive of the initiative, which prioritizes families experiencing crisis rather than operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Jeseritz clarified that the criteria for homelessness include individuals living in precarious conditions, such as cars or facing imminent eviction. The shelter has a waitlist, prioritizing vulnerable populations like families with children and individuals with disabilities. Jeseritz emphasized that residents would be required to engage in goal-setting shortly after arrival, with an initial period allowed for stabilization.

13:43Transportation emerged as a significant barrier to employment for residents, and UCAP is addressing this through car donations, repairs, and bus passes. However, a lack of childcare remains a issue impacting employment opportunities. Jeseritz also highlighted UCAP’s coordination with organizations like Family Promise and the Salvation Army to direct families to appropriate resources, especially in cases involving domestic violence.

31:05In another development, the board discussed the strain on the county’s eligibility team, which has seen a notable increase in application volumes for various programs. The team now processes over 1,200 documents monthly, a 30% increase since 2019. Despite growing staff numbers, the workload has outpaced these increases, causing concern about backlogs and delays in critical coverage. Staff members reported urgent cases, including those requiring medical interventions like transplant approvals. The county is considering an early succession plan to address anticipated retirements and maintain a competent workforce.

55:38Meanwhile, financial discussions revealed concerns about the county’s reliance on federal funding, which comprises about 20-25% of the budget. There is apprehension over potential federal cuts and how they might impact the county’s financial situation. The board debated the necessity of adding new positions to address staffing shortages, with one commissioner noting the potential for a 4-5% levy increase due to state budget changes.

01:23:01In project updates, Corey Smith from the Glacial Lake Sanitary Sewer and Water District reported the successful completion of the New London water tower restoration project, which came in under budget. Public Works Director Mel Odin provided updates on a county road maintenance project and a walking trail improvement along Northshore Drive. Additionally, a detour agreement with the Minnesota Department of Transportation for upcoming road work was approved.

01:30:03The meeting also touched on the county’s drug court program, which has transitioned back to local control from the Department of Corrections. The program emphasizes intensive supervision for high-risk individuals and employs cognitive behavioral programming to aid in rehabilitation. A commissioner praised the program’s transformative impact on participants and families, noting its success in fostering long-term sobriety.

01:45:44Lastly, the board discussed community engagement initiatives, including a Student Government Day and a collaboration with local school districts to engage students with county government. The board expressed a desire to involve students in activities such as Q&A sessions with department heads and a mock trial led by the County Attorney. The meeting concluded with committee reports and administrative updates, including the resignation of Prairie Lakes director Dr. Holly Booth and the exploration of broadband expansion challenges due to federal program classifications.