The meeting began with a detailed report from the EDC Broadband Committee, presented by Mark Bashan, which highlighted broadband expansion efforts in the county. With approximately $6.3 million of ARPA funds designated for broadband projects, the county successfully connected 2,612 locations. Total investments from various sources, including state grants, reached over $221 million. Three ongoing projects are currently under construction, with collaborative efforts between public officials and internet service providers playing a key role in advancing connectivity. The committee announced the return of $262,525.44 in unallocated funds to the county, slated for discussion in future broadband projects. One commissioner noted the potential for these funds to bolster the general fund, highlighting a consensus to ensure ongoing broadband support beyond current allocations.

In parallel, the board addressed a zoning amendment proposed by the Planning Commission, which sought to reduce the road setback requirement for structures adjacent to principal arterial roads—Highways 12, 23, and 71—from 150 feet to 130 feet. The proposal, initiated by local applicants, aimed to align with neighboring counties’ standards and eliminate ambiguities in property development. The Planning Commission held a public hearing and consulted with road authorities, facing no significant opposition. The motion to amend the zoning ordinance was carried unanimously.

The meeting also covered various procedural discussions and updates. Commissioners engaged in extensive dialogue about board operating guidelines, with differing views on the urgency of adopting updated rules. While some highlighted the necessity of revisiting the guidelines, citing changes over the past decades, others were hesitant to prioritize this amidst matters like budgeting and cannabis ordinances. A consensus emerged to schedule a work session to review the guidelines, allowing for collaborative input from all board members. The focus was on ensuring that any changes would enhance governance without making immediate decisions.

Further, the issue of delinquent water and sewer accounts within the Glacial Lakes Sanitary Sewer and Water District was addressed, with a resolution on assessments presented by Cory Smith. The board discussed four delinquent accounts and their respective charges. This resolution, recommended by the Glacial Lakes Commission, was motioned and seconded, with the board scrutinizing discrepancies between late fees and usage charges.

The meeting also touched on the procedural aspects of board meetings, particularly the use of technology for remote attendance and public engagement. The board emphasized the necessity for public visibility and audibility in virtual meetings, raising concerns about conducting sessions remotely from locations like hotel rooms, particularly when security issues might arise. Closed meetings were discussed, with the board underscoring the legal parameters for such sessions under Minnesota statutes.

Additionally, the board explored procedures for special or emergency meetings, focusing on public notification requirements. Audience participation was also examined, with members noting that public inquiries should initially be directed to staff before escalating to the board. The chair retains discretion over public involvement during discussions.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the redetermination of benefits for drainage systems in Kandiyohi County, a process initiated in collaboration with Chippewa and Renville Counties. This redetermination, ongoing since 2022, involves assessing the benefits of drainage systems and is nearly complete. The estimated cost of this process is around $300,000, with benefits assessed per acre within the watershed.

Lastly, the board reviewed its communication and transparency strategies. Agendas and minutes are made accessible via email and published in local media, with a commitment to using county-issued devices for official business to ensure compliance with public records laws. The board reiterated its dedication to engaging the public through various channels, including video recordings and social media.