During the meeting, an extensive presentation was delivered by representatives from the victim services team. These coordinators, who have been part of the team since 2006, play a role in helping victims navigate the complexities of the legal process, which often begins with informing victims of their statutory rights. Victims are kept informed and allowed to participate in the prosecutorial process, including providing input on plea agreements and sentencing. The representatives stressed the importance of direct communication, often preferring phone calls over written notifications to ensure victims fully understand their rights and the process.

Victims are given a platform to express their views through victim impact statements during sentencing, which judges consider seriously.

The board further explored the challenges posed by the high caseload managed by the victim services team, which handles approximately 450 active cases. Concerns were raised over the understaffing compared to other counties, fueling discussions on the need for additional resources. While some funding is supplemented by grants, the primary financial support for victim services comes from the county’s budget allocations.

Another prominent agenda item was the discussion on the authorization of grant application support. County Administrator Kelsey Baker requested permission to prepare and submit letters of support for various grant opportunities without waiting for full board meetings. This proposal aimed to capitalize on time-sensitive grant opportunities that could benefit housing improvements, training programs, and park upgrades. The board debated the implications of this delegation, focusing on the need for transparency and ensuring that such letters reflect the board’s collective stance rather than just the department heads’.

The conversation also addressed specific grant requests, such as one for the Prairie Lakes Youth Program. The speaker emphasized the necessity of Kandiyohi County’s support due to the program’s location within county facilities. The board discussed concerns about the collaborative nature of the grant, with suggestions to include the names of all five counties involved in Prairie Lakes to ensure comprehensive recognition in future requests.

Additionally, the board considered a letter of support for the Partners for Success program, presented by Sarah Vandar from PAC 4 Families Collaborative. The program, aimed at preventing substance use among youth, faced potential funding gaps with the impending end of its current grant. Vandar explained the adjustments made in their proposal structure to expand efforts into Mer County, seeking the board’s continued support. The commissioners approved the letter of support.

Another notable discussion focused on infrastructure projects, where the county engineer reviewed various road maintenance projects. These projects included crack filling, chloride application, and seal coating, which faced budgetary challenges but were critical for the county’s infrastructure. The board approved bids for these projects, balancing fiscal constraints with the need for ongoing maintenance.