13:14Cybersecurity emerged as a topic during the meeting, with discussions centered on trends and the impact of awareness campaigns. Richard Mihi from the Minnesota Counties Intergovernmental Trust (MCIT) provided insights into the rising challenges of cyber threats and the measures taken to mitigate them. He noted an increase in cybersecurity incidents from 2022 to 2023, followed by a decline, which he attributed to heightened community awareness and initiatives like a cybersecurity workshop in St. Cloud. These initiatives have reportedly encouraged individuals to adopt better digital practices. Mihi emphasized the importance of continued engagement from the county to address evolving risks, highlighting no-cost training programs provided by MCIT to bolster public safety and risk management.

20:45In addition to cybersecurity, workforce development was a major focus, with the board receiving a presentation from Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services (CMJTS). Dean Awares outlined CMJTS’s efforts to rebrand and expand their services across eleven counties, including Kandiyohi County. The organization offers a variety of programs for job seekers and businesses, ranging from entry-level assistance to retraining for those affected by company closures. Awares emphasized the importance of these programs in supporting individuals from ages 14 to 104, stating, “If you’re looking for work, you want to go back to work, we likely have a program available to assist you.” He also addressed funding concerns, clarifying that CMJTS receives support from federal and state entities rather than relying solely on county funds.

These camps, held at Ridgewater Campus, offer practical learning opportunities and have become highly popular, with waiting lists each year. Awares also discussed the organization’s strategic planning efforts to align goals with community needs, focusing on retaining young workers, enhancing visibility, and diversifying funding sources.

01:09:59Mental health initiatives were another key topic, with the board proclaiming May 2025 as Mental Health Month in Kandiyohi County. The proclamation emphasized the essential nature of mental health to overall well-being and called for community commitment to increasing awareness and support for mental health services. Megan Knot from Kandiyohi County Health and Human Services presented an overview of the county’s responsibilities in providing accessible mental health services, highlighting partnerships with organizations like Woodland Centers to deliver various services. She detailed several service areas, including emergency services, community support, and case management, and discussed the challenges of managing mental health services, particularly regarding resource allocation and accessibility.

01:33:27Children’s mental health was also addressed, with a proclamation recognizing May 7th, 2025, as Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day. The board acknowledged the importance of a collaborative framework to meet the mental health needs of children, youth, and families. An update on children’s mental health services revealed that the team is currently managing 57 open cases, with additional intakes and referrals.

02:02:13The meeting further explored the condition of township bridges and the need for a bonding bill to address infrastructure issues. A resolution was passed to support the testing and repair of timber bridges within the county, with specific mention of a bridge on Road 17 eligible for federal funding. The board emphasized the importance of a focused bonding bill to prioritize funding for infrastructure projects.