The Douglas County Board of Commissioners had one of its busiest meetings so far in 2024 on Tuesday, August 20.
Board members listened to 13 agency leaders whose organizations have a tie to the county and provide services and opportunities for residents and visitors. These leaders outlined their annual request for financial support and why it’s justified. Additional agencies submitted written requests. Commissioners unanimously approved all appropriation requests for 2025.
In order of appearance:
Shelli-Kae Foster, Executive Director of the Alexandria Senior Center, shared how the center serves the entire county with informational programs, social interactions, and meals to keep seniors healthy and active. The center will receive $20,000 in county funds for 2025.
Transportation is a vital service in Douglas County. Brenda Brittin, Director of Rainbow Rider, outlined the operating share for Douglas County in 2025 which will be $135,276.06. The capital share is $17,328.33.
The Alexandria Area Chamber of Commerce, led by Executive Director Tara Bitzan, will receive $4,000 in funds.
Wendy Roiland, Executive Director of Central Minnesota Elder Network, explained how the companion visiting program and respite services provide much needed breaks for caregivers, and reduce loneliness and isolation for seniors. The county will provide $12,000 to Elder Network in 2025.
Brad Brejcha, President of the Douglas County Fair Board asked for $25,000, which is a $5,000 increase over last year. He said part of the funds will be used to put together a master plan for the property, commonly recognized as the fairgrounds, which is now owned by the fair board. The property was formerly owned by the city of Alexandria.
Brittany Johnson, Director of Operations of the Douglas County Historical Society, shared recent improvements and requested $20,000.
Jay Sieling presented the request for $50,000 to the Douglas County Water Quality Legacy Fund. The fund provides matching dollars for grants from other sources to protect and restore water resources. A crucial need, he argued, with all the lakes in the county currently on the Impaired Waters List.
Jerry Haggenmiller, District Coordinator for the Douglas Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) made the request for $294,953 for SWCD and $4,200 for the Chippewa Watershed.
Christin Klimek, Executive Director of the Lakes Area Humane Society, explained the need for an appropriation of $15,000 in 2025 for operating expenses and care for the animals at the shelter. She said there has been a substantial increase in the number of dogs being abandoned.
Rebecca Lynn Petersen, Director of Development for West Central Initiative, requested a 2025 appropriation in the $10,500 to $11,000 range.
Nicole Fernholz, Director of the Alexandria Area Economic Development Commission, shared the work done by her organization to retain employees, meet workforce needs, and assist entrepreneurs. Her request was $57,750.
Angela Jacobson, the clerk and treasurer of Osakis, requested $6,000 for the city’s Economic Development Authority fund. She said the money is used to promote economic growth. Osakis is the second largest city in Douglas County and Jacobson said the goal in 2025 is to add housing and businesses.
Erin Smith, Director of Viking Library System, made the annual request for funds. The 2025 amount was $145,316.00.
Other appropriations approved:
Dancing Sky Area Agency on Aging - $9,263.00
Regional Radio Board $16,196.33
2025 Wages
The board approved a 3 percent wage increase for non-union county workers and commissioners. There will be no change to commissioners per diem rate.
Salaries for elected officials will be as follows in 2025:
- County Attorney $157,850.00
- Auditor Treasurer $107,000
- County Recorder $80,850
School Resource Officer Agreement
The board approved an agreement that will provide a full-time Douglas County deputy to work as the School Resource Officer in the Osakis School District. The school board will reimburse the wages and benefits for a deputy for two school years, beginning this fall. According to the agreement, the School Resource Officer program is designed to fill three roles:
- Provide law enforcement, promote crime prevention, and ensure safety within the school and its property. School Resource Officers are responsible for law enforcement incidents occurring in the school. Complaints about student misbehavior are referred to school administration.
- Foster a positive school environment by getting to know students, acting as a role model and working with staff and administration to identify students that may be facing challenges and need additional resources.
- Provide instruction and guidance to students in law enforcement and justice which can be achieved by talking to students in the hallways and delivering presentations in classrooms.
Chief Deputy Jason Peterson and Superintendent Justin Dahlheimer appeared before the board to make the request. Deputy Nicole Swanson, an experienced School Resource Officer, will be assigned to fill the position in Osakis. Superintendent Dahlheimer said he appreciated the sheriff’s prompt response to this request and he’s looking forward to the SRO being a great role model for the students.
Land and Resource Management
Commissioners approved a conditional use permit for a proposed 12-unit housing development at Andes Tower Hills. The units will be individually owned, but part of an owner’s association. One of the conditions is a right-to-hunt provision which gives blanket permission for any person to discharge a firearm on a neighboring property within 500 feet of a building occupied by humans within the housing development.
Public Works
County Public Works Director Tim Erickson asked for and received support to pursue a grant to develop a comprehensive safety action plan. And he said the county plans to improve the parking lot at Kensington Rune Stone Park. He said upon completion, the parking lot will hold more vehicles and be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
The next board meeting will be Tuesday, September 3 at 9 a.m. in the Administration Building at 821 Cedar Street in Alexandria.