The library funding issue took center stage during the public comment segment. Several residents expressed dissatisfaction with the current budget allocation, highlighting the library’s importance for both individual enrichment and community engagement. One speaker pointed out that nearly half of the county’s population are registered library users, stressing that the actual number might be higher considering many children engage in library activities without having library cards. The library was described as a vital space for fostering critical thinking and providing a safe environment for various demographics, including seniors who frequent it as a social hub.

Concerns were raised about the potential reduction in library hours due to limited funding, which could restrict community access to its services. Judy Bon lamented the lack of response from commissioners regarding emails advocating for library funding, urging the board to address rising operational costs to maintain service levels. Paula Persons highlighted the increasing costs of books and the library’s struggle to survive without sufficient budget increases. The sentiment was echoed by other speakers, who emphasized that failing to enhance library funding would hinder its capacity to serve the public effectively.

In response to these concerns, a commissioner clarified that library funding is governed by a “minimum maintenance of effort” requirement mandated by state law, which has kept the funding levels consistent for over a decade. Despite this explanation, public sentiment remained focused on the need for increased financial support for the library.

Another topic at the meeting was the discussion of a substantial mental health grant. Tammy Ly, the Adult Services Manager, detailed the Region 5 adult mental health initiative grant, which has been awarded to Crow Wing County and several other counties. The grant, totaling $7,203,028, saw a notable increase due to legislative changes and a new funding formula. The funds are critical for supporting the mental health continuum of care within the region, with Crow Wing County receiving a larger portion based on its population. The grant aims to address unmet needs and is distributed to various service providers according to agreements made during board proceedings.

The meeting also covered discussions on the repeal of obsolete ordinances and the adoption of a new fee schedule for 2025. Chris Pence, the Environmental Services Manager, presented a list of outdated ordinances for repeal, which included regulations on addressing, signage, environmental reviews, and other areas. The board unanimously agreed to streamline county regulations by repealing these ordinances. The new fee schedule, affecting multiple departments including Community Services, the Highway Department, and the Sheriff’s Office, was adopted after thorough budget committee analysis, with no public comments received during the hearing.

Land use ordinance amendments also garnered attention, particularly regarding changes to prepare for 2025. The amendments included interim use permits, septic site requirements, and the merging of land use districts to enhance regulatory efficiency. The proposed changes aimed to improve the framework for commercial cannabis use, set to be effective in January 2025. The Planning Commission recommended several amendments, excluding setback averaging, which prompted further clarification among commissioners.

Additionally, the board approved a ten-year landfill contract with Marv Strosin, commending his family’s long-term management of the facility. A land use map amendment in Oakland Township, changing the designation from agricultural forested to rural residential, was also approved following a recommendation from the Planning Commission.

The meeting concluded with a presentation on the county’s 2025 budget and tax levy. The proposed budget includes a 3.99% increase, with total expenditures projected at $109 million. The board emphasized efforts to reduce the initial levy request through revisions. Detailed comparisons of taxes paid across various property classifications were presented, focusing on the county portion of property taxes. Public comments on the budget highlighted the significance of library funding, with assurances that the library staff would be involved earlier in future budget discussions.