On the agenda: New Ulm Board of Commissioners Meeting — Data Center (Oct 27)

Board of Commissioners
14 S. State St., PO Box 248
New Ulm, MN 56073-0248
Ph 507-233-6600
Fax 507-359-1430
District 1:
David Borchert
405 South Broadway St.
New Ulm, MN 56073

District 2:
Anton Berg
20218 195th Ave
New Ulm, MN 56073

District 3:
Scott Windschitl
10 Doris Drive
New Ulm, MN 56073

District 4:
Brian Braun
31457 230th St.
Sleepy Eye, MN 56085

District 5:
Jeff Veerkamp
205 East George St.
Comfrey, MN 56019

BROWN COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA - October 27, 2026 at 9:00 AM
Call to Order
1.

Pledge of Allegiance

Agenda Review
2.

Agenda Review and Approval

Consent Agenda Review
3.

Previous Meeting’s Official Proceedings and Synopsis Approval

4.

Human Services Claims Payments

5.

Brown County Civil Rights Assurance Agreement

6.

Staffing Report

New Business
7.

SCHA Fall 2026 Report (20 mins)

8.

Sleepy Eye HRA SAHA Grant Agreement (5 mins)

9.

Cottonwood Ridge SAHA Grant Agreement (5 mins)

10.

Human Services Burial Policy (5 mins)

11.

Medical Assistance Overpayment Recovery Policy and Procedure (5 mins)

12.

Human Services Monthly Update (3 mins)

13.

Nagell Appraisal Incorporated for Tax Court Appraisal Services (5 mins)

14.

Park Donation (5 mins)

15.

Public Health 2026 Quarter 3 Update (20 mins)

Break

Other Business

Page 1 of 112

16.

Correspondence

17.

Commissioner Committee Reports

18.

Coordinate Calendar Events

Adjournment
Close of Meeting

Additional items may be added as Addenda and approved with the Agenda or with a Suspension of Rules.
In some circumstances, Board members may use interactive technology to participate in a regular meeting
pursuant to Minn. Stat. Sec. 13D.02. In such situations, and to the extent practical, Brown County shall allow a
person to monitor the meeting electronically from a remote location.
NEXT COUNTY BOARD MEETING DATES
DATE: 11/03/2026

DATE: 11/17/2026

DATE: 11/24/2026

DATE: 12/01/2026

County Administrator’s E-Mail Address: [email protected]
Home Page Address www.browncountymn.gov

Page 2 of 112

October 20, 2026

DRAFT

At 9:00 AM, on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, the Brown County Board of Commissioners met in Room #204 of the
Brown County Courthouse located in New Ulm, Minnesota, 56073. Commissioners present were David Borchert,
Anton Berg, Scott Windschitl, Brian Braun and Jeff Veerkamp, along with County Administrator Sam Hansen and
County Attorney Charles Hanson.
Call to Order
1. Chairman Windschitl called to order the Regular Meeting at 9:00 AM. All present said the Pledge of Allegiance.
Agenda Review
2. A motion was offered by Commissioner Berg, and was seconded by Commissioner Borchert, to accept the
printed agenda. This motion duly carried.
Consent Agenda Review
3. Previous Meeting’s Official Proceedings and Synopsis Approval
4. General Government Claims
In accordance with MS 375.12, the following claims exceed $2,000: ALPHA WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS
$10,783.67; Assn of MN Counties $2,073.00; BEHRENDS/MARK $2,240.00; BUREAU OF CRIMINAL
APPREHENSION $7,560.00; CLIFTON LARSON ALLEN LLP $15,750.00; Election Systems & Software Inc
$8,673.64; ESRI $18,421.92; FAUL Psychological $2,025.00; Geocomm Inc $7,386.72; Hanska Repair $6,031.25;
HKGI $9,030.31; Klassen Mechanical Inc $7,735.93; Mathiowetz Enterprises Inc $4,966.05; Menards (PRK
33000272) $2,288.68; MN Counties Computer Cooperative $50,395.95; MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS INC
$7,604.40; PC Janitorial Supply, LLC $2,178.80; PHYSICIANS GROUP OF NEW ULM LTD $2,000.00; R.D.
Partners, Inc $2,774.00; River Bend Leasing $2,312.52; Sanofi Pasteur Inc $3,273.39; Smith & Johnson
$12,000.00; South Central Community Based Initiative $10,000.00; University of Minnesota $33,475.00;
WEELBORG CHEVROLET LLC $10,768.15; 84 payments less than $2,000 total $29,387.01. Final Total:
$271,135.39.
5. Human Services Claims Payments
In accordance with MS 375.12 the following claims exceed $2,000; Brown Co Human Services $7,840.00; Brown
Co Probation Dept $5,000.00; Brown Co Public Health Nursing $3,000.00; CDW Government Inc $35,706.13;
Children Youth & Families Dept $11,556.91; Confidential Client $2,415.36; Confidential Client $2,340.94;
Confidential Client $2,450.00; Confidential Client $2,029.00; Confidential Client $2,393.82; MN Human Services
$19,762.61; North Central International LLC $7,807.47; Pomp’s Tire Service Inv $2,165.20; Pro Kinship for Kids
$2,275.00; Southern MN Crisis Nursery $8,750.00; Sturm Funeral Home $6,661.25; 161 payments less than $2,000
total $58,349.03. Final Total: $180,502.72
6. City of Springfield Carbon Reduction Project EV Truck Purchase Agreement
7. Staffing Report
A motion was offered by Commissioner Borchert, and was seconded by Commissioner Braun, to approve said
Consent Agenda items. This motion duly carried.
New Business
8. Jason Seidl, County Sheriff, and Andrew Konechne, Chief Deputy, met with the County Board. A motion was
offered by Commissioner Braun, and was seconded by Commissioner Berg, to accept and order file the Sheriff's
Office September Monthly Report of Activity. This motion duly carried.
9. A motion was offered by Commissioner Braun, and was seconded by Commissioner Veerkamp, to approve a 5year Motorola Vesta Contract from 12/1/2026 to 11/30/2031 for 9-1-1 call handling services in the amount of
$203,515.65. This motion carried on a roll-call vote of 5-0.
10. Kelly Hotovec, Auditor-Treasurer, met with the County Board. A motion was offered by Commissioner Berg,
and was seconded by Commissioner Veerkamp, to accept by Resolution No. 2026-27, the Limited Use Permit No.
0801-0006 with the State of Minnesota, Department of Transportation, for limited use along and adjacent to Trunk
Highway No. 4, 14, 15, and 68 for the purposes of construction, maintenance and operation of the Snowmobile
Trail. This motion carried on a roll-call vote of 5-0.
11. Kelly Hotovec, Auditor-Treasurer, and Andrew Lang, Engineer, met with the County Board. A motion was
offered by Commissioner Veerkamp, and was seconded by Commissioner Windschitl, to approve the following
drainage repair request(s) and the payment of said repair(s):

Page 3 of 112

DRAFT

October 20, 2026
System

Repair

Order

TWP

Section

Repair Type

Cost

CD 72

25-076

1

Home

29

Tile Lining

$86,675.00

This motion duly carried.
12. A motion was offered by Commissioner Braun, and was seconded by Commissioner Windschitl, to award the
Springfield Shop cold storage addition project to Design Home Center with a low bid of $168,365.64. This motion
carried on a roll-call vote of 5-0. Other quotes received:
Company
Total Bid Amount
Design Home Center, New Ulm

$168,365.64

Clements Lumber, Comfrey

$190,000.00

Town's Edge Lumber, Sleepy Eye

$195,583.10

Redwood Building Center, Redwood Falls

$225,274.00

Engineer's Estimate

$110,000.00

13. Robert Santaella, Planning and Zoning Director, met with the County Board. A motion was offered by
Commissioner Berg, and was seconded by Commissioner Borchert, to schedule a Public Hearing for 9:02am on
November 17, 2026, for the Interim Moratorium of Data Centers Ordinance. This motion duly carried.
14. Sam Hansen, County Administrator, met with the County Board. A motion was offered by Commissioner
Braun, and was seconded by Commissioner Veerkamp, to accept and order file the Q3 2026 Budget Report
(Modified Accrual and Unaudited) which reflects activity at 75% of the budget year as follows: expenditures of
$33,256,660 or 69.8%, and revenues of $30,460,130 or 63.9%; and the Q3 2026 Supplemental Budget Report
noting expenditures of $1,652,898 or 66.9% and revenues of $1,840,656 or 79.9% of annual budget activity. This
motion duly carried.
Closed Session
15. A motion was offered by Commissioner Berg, and was seconded by Commissioner Borchert, to convene into
closed session as permitted by Minnesota Statute § 13D.05, subd. 2 to consider Social Services Payments. This
motion duly carried.
A motion was offered by Commissioner Borchert, and was seconded by Commissioner Berg, to authorize payment
of Social Services claims in the amount of $209,649.31. In accordance with MS 375.12, the following claims
exceed $2,000: Consider payment of claims in the amount of $174,808.70. Brown Co Evaluation Ctr $17,387.83;
Children’s Home $3,592.42; Eagle Eye Real Estate $4,206.24; ELAN Financial Services $5,136.12; EON Inc
$2,349.60; Families First Collaborative $31,948.00; Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota $2,763.87; MN Valley
Action Council $13,897.27; Confidential Client $2,183.90; MRCI Inc $4,563.40; North Homes Inc $67,971.78;
Perala/Samantha Jo $2,980.62; Presbyterian Family Foundation Inc $2,035.30; Southern MN Independent Living
$5,641.65; Village Ranch Inc $8,150.70; 42 payments less than $2,000 total $34,840.61. Final Total: $209,649.31.
This motion duly carried.
A motion was offered by Commissioner Berg, and was seconded by Commissioner Veerkamp, to cease closed
session and reconvene the open session. This motion duly carried.
Break
16. Planning Commission Recommendations:
Robert Santaella, Planning and Zoning Director, met with the County Board. A motion was offered by
Commissioner Braun, and was seconded by Commissioner Veerkamp, to approve Interim Use Permit application
APP-I-0032 filed by Woody Krog of City Switch by Buell Consulting, Inc. on the property owned by Keith Nelson
described the full Government Lot 14, Section 31, Township 108 North, Range 31 West, Lake Hanska Township,
Brown County, Minnesota. Application for an Interim Use Permit is to allow a new 340’ tall communication tower
with supporting equipment, all located in the A-1 Agricultural Protection Zoning District with the following
conditions:

Page 4 of 112

October 20, 2026

DRAFT

1. The Owner/Operator must comply with all applicable Federal, State, and County statutes, rules and
ordinances. Obtain & keep in good standing all required permits & shall submit copies of like to Brown
County Planning and Zoning Office.
2. The IUP is effective for a period of 50 years. If there is a change in ownership of this site, at any time, the
new owner must notify Brown County Planning and Zoning.
This motion carried on a roll-call vote of 5-0.
A motion was offered by Commissioner Veerkamp, and was seconded by Commissioner Windschitl, to approve
Interim Use permit application APP-I-0033 filed by Kyle Ludewig DBA Construction Haulers Inc. on the property
owned by Karen A Dubois and John Baier Revocable Trust, described as NW ¼, Section 14, Township 108 North,
Range 34 West, Bashaw Township, Brown County, Minnesota. Application for an Interim Use Permit is to allow
the use of a gravel mine; to include gravel extraction, screening, and processing, all located in the Agricultural
Protection Zoning District with the following conditions:
1. The Owner/Operator must comply with all applicable Federal, State, and County statutes, rules, and
ordinances. Obtain and keep in good standing all required permits and shall submit copies of like to Brown
County Planning and Zoning Office.
2. Owner/operator must provide adequate noise and dust control.
3. The IUP is effective for a period of three (3) years from the date of issuance. If there is a change in
ownership of this site, at any time, the new owner must apply for a new IUP.
This motion carried on a roll-call vote of 5-0.
A motion was offered by Commissioner Berg, and was seconded by Commissioner Veerkamp, to approve
Preliminary Plat application APP-P-0184 filed by Kevin Yeo is to consider the Final Plat of Shellum 2nd
Subdivision on the properties owned by Kevin & Barbara Yeo and Dorothy Shellum described as: Lot 1, Block 1
Shellum 1st Subdivision, Section 30 and Part of the SE ¼ of the SW ¼, Excepting Shellum 1st Subdivision, Section
30, Albin Township, Brown County, Minnesota. Application is to add acreage onto an existing platted lot with a
farm site on it. This motion carried on a roll-call vote of 5-0.
A motion was offered by Commissioner Berg, and was seconded by Commissioner Veerkamp, to approve
Preliminary Plat application APP-P-0185 filed by Brandon Marks is to consider the Preliminary Plat of Marks 2nd
Subdivision on the property owned by Brandon W & Sadie R Marks described as Lot 1, Block 1 Marks
Subdivision, Section 23, Burnstown Township, Brown County, Minnesota. Application is to replat existing plat
with an existing farm site. This motion carried on a roll-call vote of 5-0.
Other Business
17. Commissioner Committee Reports: Commissioner Borchert reported on the road and safety meeting, family
resource meeting, Hazard mitigation meeting, HONU leadership meeting, and SAHA grant funding; Commissioner
Berg reported on the road and safety meeting, and the drainage workgroup; Commissioner Windschitl reported on
the road and safety meeting, and BCHS meeting; Commissioner Braun reported on the road and safety meeting,
family resource meeting, SAHA grant funding, MnDOT Policy Advising committee meeting, and Hazard
Mitigation meeting; and Commissioner Veerkamp reported on the road and safety meeting, and library board
meeting.
18. Calendars were coordinated for the next two-week period.
Adjournment
There being no further business, Chairman Windschitl declared the Meeting adjourned at 11:27 AM.
Notice
County Board Workshop regarding All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV) on County roadways took place following the
Board Meeting.
Ditch Meeting — 8:30 a.m. | Attending: Commissioners Berg and Borchert
• Blue Earth & Brown Counties JD 36, Set Redetermination of Benefits Hearing and Appoint Engineers

Page 5 of 112

October 20, 2026

DRAFT

________________________________
Scott Windschitl, Chair
Board of Brown County Commissioners
Brown County, Minnesota
ATTEST:
Sam Hansen
Brown County Administrator
Brown County, Minnesota

Page 6 of 112

Page 7 of 112

October 20, 2026

DRAFT

Members present were Borchert, Berg, Windschitl, Braun and Veerkamp, along with Administrator Hansen and
Attorney Hanson.
M/Berg, S/Borchert, to accept the printed agenda; carried.
1. Previous Meeting’s Official Proceedings and Synopsis Approval
2. General Government Claims
In accordance with MS 375.12, the following claims exceed $2,000: ALPHA WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS
$10,783.67; Assn of MN Counties $2,073.00; BEHRENDS/MARK $2,240.00; BUREAU OF CRIMINAL
APPREHENSION $7,560.00; CLIFTON LARSON ALLEN LLP $15,750.00; Election Systems & Software Inc
$8,673.64; ESRI $18,421.92; FAUL Psychological $2,025.00; Geocomm Inc $7,386.72; Hanska Repair $6,031.25;
HKGI $9,030.31; Klassen Mechanical Inc $7,735.93; Mathiowetz Enterprises Inc $4,966.05; Menards (PRK
33000272) $2,288.68; MN Counties Computer Cooperative $50,395.95; MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS INC
$7,604.40; PC Janitorial Supply, LLC $2,178.80; PHYSICIANS GROUP OF NEW ULM LTD $2,000.00; R.D.
Partners, Inc $2,774.00; River Bend Leasing $2,312.52; Sanofi Pasteur Inc $3,273.39; Smith & Johnson
$12,000.00; South Central Community Based Initiative $10,000.00; University of Minnesota $33,475.00;
WEELBORG CHEVROLET LLC $10,768.15; 84 payments less than $2,000 total $29,387.01. Final Total:
$271,135.39.
3. Human Services Claims Payments
In accordance with MS 375.12 the following claims exceed $2,000; Brown Co Human Services $7,840.00; Brown
Co Probation Dept $5,000.00; Brown Co Public Health Nursing $3,000.00; CDW Government Inc $35,706.13;
Children Youth & Families Dept $11,556.91; Confidential Client $2,415.36; Confidential Client $2,340.94;
Confidential Client $2,450.00; Confidential Client $2,029.00; Confidential Client $2,393.82; MN Human Services
$19,762.61; North Central International LLC $7,807.47; Pomp’s Tire Service Inv $2,165.20; Pro Kinship for Kids
$2,275.00; Southern MN Crisis Nursery $8,750.00; Sturm Funeral Home $6,661.25; 161 payments less than $2,000
total $58,349.03. Final Total: $180,502.72
4. City of Springfield Carbon Reduction Project EV Truck Purchase Agreement
5. Staffing Report
M/Borchert, S/Braun, to approve said Consent Agenda items; carried.
M/Braun, S/Berg, to accept and order file the Sheriff's Office Sept. Monthly Report of Activity; carried.
M/Braun, S/Veerkamp, to approve a 5-year Motorola Vesta Contract from 12/1/2026 to 11/30/2031 for 9-1-1
call handling services in the amount of $203,515.65; carried 5-0.
M/Berg, S/Veerkamp, to accept by Resolution No. 2026-27, the Limited Use Permit No. 0801-0006 with the
State of MN, Dept. of Transportation, for limited use along and adjacent to Trunk HWY No. 4, 14, 15, and 68 for
the purposes of construction, maintenance and operation of the Snowmobile Trail; carried 5-0.
M/Veerkamp, S/Windschitl, to approve (1) drainage repair request and the payment of said repair; carried.
M/Braun, S/Windschitl, to award the Springfield Shop cold storage addition project to Design Home Center
with a low bid of $168,365.64; carried 5-0. Other quotes received.
M/Berg, S/Borchert, to schedule a Public Hearing for 9:02am on November 17, 2026, for the Interim
Moratorium of Data Centers Ordinance; carried.
M/Braun, S/Veerkamp, to accept and order file the Q3 2026 Budget Report (Modified Accrual and Unaudited)
which reflects activity at 75% of the budget year as follows: expenditures of $33,256,660 or 69.8%, and revenues
of $30,460,130 or 63.9%; and the Q3 2026 Supplemental Budget Report noting expenditures of $1,652,898 or
66.9% and revenues of $1,840,656 or 79.9% of annual budget activity; carried.
M/Berg, S/Borchert, to convene into closed session as permitted by MN Statute § 13D.05, subd. 2 to consider
Social Services Payments; carried.
M/Borchert, S/Berg, to authorize payment of Social Services claims in the amount of $209,649.31. In
accordance with MS 375.12, the following claims exceed $2,000: Consider payment of claims in the amount of
$174,808.70. Brown Co Evaluation Ctr $17,387.83; Children’s Home $3,592.42; Eagle Eye Real Estate
$4,206.24; ELAN Financial Services $5,136.12; EON Inc $2,349.60; Families First Collaborative $31,948.00;
Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota $2,763.87; MN Valley Action Council $13,897.27; Confidential Client
$2,183.90; MRCI Inc $4,563.40; North Homes Inc $67,971.78; Perala/Samantha Jo $2,980.62; Presbyterian
Family Foundation Inc $2,035.30; Southern MN Independent Living $5,641.65; Village Ranch Inc $8,150.70; 42
payments less than $2,000 total $34,840.61. Final Total: $209,649.31; carried.
M/Berg, S/Veerkamp, to cease closed session and reconvene the open session; carried.
M/Braun, S/Veerkamp, to approve Interim Use Permit (IUP) application APP-I-0032 filed by Woody Krog of
City Switch by Buell Consulting, Inc. on the property owned by Keith Nelson described the full Government Lot
14, Section 31, TWP 108 N, Range 31 W, Lake Hanska TWP, Brown Co., MN. Application is to allow a new 340’
tall communication tower with supporting equipment, all located in the A-1 Ag Protection Zoning District with
conditions: carried 5-0.
M/Veerkamp, S/Windschitl, to approve IUP application APP-I-0033 filed by Kyle Ludewig DBA Construction
Haulers Inc. on the property owned by Karen A Dubois and John Baier Revocable Trust, described as NW ¼, Section
14, TWP 108 N, Range 34 W, Bashaw TWP, Brown Co., MN. Application to allow the use of a gravel mine; to
Page 8 of 112

October 20, 2026

DRAFT

include gravel extraction, screening, and processing, all located in the Ag Protection Zoning District with conditions;
carried 5-0.
M/Berg, S/Veerkamp, to approve Preliminary Plat application APP-P-0184 filed by Kevin Yeo is to consider the
Final Plat of Shellum 2nd Subd. on the properties owned by Kevin & Barbara Yeo and Dorothy Shellum described
as: Lot 1, Block 1 Shellum 1st Subd., Section 30 and Part of the SE ¼ of the SW ¼, Excepting Shellum 1st Subd.,
Section 30, Albin TWP, Brown Co., MN. Application is to add acreage onto an existing platted lot with a farm site
on it; carried 5-0.
M/Berg, S/Veerkamp, to approve Preliminary Plat application APP-P-0185 filed by Brandon Marks is to consider
the Preliminary Plat of Marks 2nd Subd. on the property owned by Brandon W & Sadie R Marks described as Lot 1,
Block 1 Marks Subd., Section 23, Burnstown TWP, Brown Co., MN. Application is to replat existing plat with an
existing farm site; carried 5-0.
Commissioner Committee Reports: Borchert reported on the road and safety meeting (mtg), family resource
mtg, Hazard mitigation mtg, HONU leadership mtg, and SAHA grant funding; Berg reported on the road and
safety mtg, and the drainage workgroup; Windschitl reported on the road and safety mtg, and BCHS mtg; Braun
reported on the road and safety mtg, family resource mtg, SAHA grant funding, MnDOT Policy Advising
committee mtg, and Hazard Mitigation mtg; and Veerkamp reported on the road and safety mtg, and library board
mtg.
Calendars were coordinated for the next two-week period.
There being no further business, Chairman Windschitl declared the Meeting adjourned at 11:27 AM.
County Board Workshop regarding All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV) on County roadways took place following the
Board Meeting.
Ditch Meeting — 8:30 a.m. | Attending: Berg and Borchert; Blue Earth & Brown Counties JD 36, Set
Redetermination of Benefits Hearing and Appoint Engineers.
This is a synopsis of the Brown County Board of Commissioners Meeting. Official Minutes are available on the
County website: www.browncountymn.gov.

Page 9 of 112

CONSENT AGENDA
Originating Department: Human Services
Item: Human Services Claims Payments

Background:
In accordance with MS 375.12 the following claims exceed $2,000; ELAN Financial Services $3,983.68.
Two less than $2,000 total $1,265.90. Final total is $5,249.48.

Supporting Documents:
1.
Admin_2 Vendor Board List Oct 2026

Page 10 of 112

BCHS Admin Board List

10/27/2026

Vendor Name

Description

Amount

1

ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

9/23 MONEY ORDER

2.65

2

ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

9/29 MONEY ORDER

2.65

3

ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

10/2 MONEY ORDER

2.65

4

ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

9/22 MONEY ORDER

2.65

5

ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

9/25 MONEY ORDER

2.65

6

ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

9/16 MONEY ORDER

7.95

7

ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

INDOOR SPACE HEATERS 500W

15.98

8

ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

SIMPLE IN/OUT FEE

25.60

9

ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

INDOOR SPACE HEATERS 500W

33.97

10 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

SIMPLE IN/OUT FEE

54.39

11 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

DEMENTIA SUMMIT/HOFFMANN

68.07

12 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

DEMENTIA SUMMIT/STIMPERT

68.08

13 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

9/22-9/23 LODGING/BROSKOFF

104.87

14 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

INFANT & EARLY CHILD CONF/BRUN

187.50

15 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

9/22-9/23 LODGING/BROSKOFF

222.85

16 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

9/10 LODGING/WELSH

223.87

17 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

MFSRC CONF HOTEL/WILFAHRT

314.14

18 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

2026 MFWCAA CONF REGIS/NOVAK

387.72

19 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

2026 MFWCAA CONF REGIS/RODRIQUEZ

387.72

20 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

2026 MFWCAA CONF REGIS/PETERSON
SUBTOTAL

387.72
2,503.68

0% COUNTY COST
Vendor Name

Description

Amount

21 CLIENT

FS BENEFIT REIMB

71.80

22 DELUXE PRINT

CUSTOM T-SHIRTS & BAGS/BOC

23 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

NETFLIX SUBSCRIPTION/BOC

8.99

24 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

CRAFT & HOLIDAY SUPPLIES/BOC

58.21

25 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

10/5 GROUP LUNCH/BOC

58.73

26 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

SALVATION ARMY PROJECT ITEMS

65.37

27 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

9/15 BOX LUNCHES/BOC

84.90

1,194.00

1
Page 11 of 112

28 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

10/5 GROCERIES & HH ITEMS/BOC

84.95

29 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

#402 DOOR SWITCH/TRANSIT

95.70

30 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

9/23 BOC BOX LUNCHES/SCCBI

110.57

31 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

#402 WHEELCHAIR LIFT/TRANSIT

170.26

32 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

#402 THRESHOLD SWITCH/TRANSIT

369.19

33 ELAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

SALVATION ARMY PROJECT ITEMS
TOTAL 0% COUNTY COST

373.13
2,745.80

GRAND TOTAL ADMIN BOARD LIST $ 5,249.48

2
Page 12 of 112

CONSENT AGENDA
Originating Department: Human Services
Item: Brown County Civil Rights Assurance Agreement

Background:
Approve the attached Brown County Civil Rights Assurance Agreement for the calendar years 2027-2028

Supporting Documents:
1.
Brown County Civil Rights Assurance Agreement 2027-28

Page 13 of 112

2027-2028 STATE-COUNTY CIVIL RIGHTS ASSURANCE AGREEMENT
, agrees to act in accordance with the provisions of
The County Agency, Brown County
the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, as amended, implementing regulations and any applicable
provisions of the FNS approved State Plan of Operation with the State of Minnesota. The
County Agency and the State agency further agree to fully comply with any changes in Federal
law and regulations. This agreement may be modified with the mutual consent of the County
Agency, the State agency, and FNS USDA.
The County Agency agrees to comply with the State-County Civil Rights Assurance Agreement
as a condition of receiving Federal financial assistance provided to the State of Minnesota by the
USDA under the authority of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, as amended.
The State-County Civil Rights Assurance Agreement is binding upon the County Agency, its
successors, transferees, and assignees for as long as the County Agency receives Federal
financial assistance from the State of Minnesota by the USDA under the authority of the Food
and Nutrition Act of 2008, as amended.
The State of Minnesota may enforce all parts of the Civil Rights Assurance Agreement as a
condition of the County Agency’s receipt of Federal funds from the State of Minnesota by the
USDA under the authority of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, as amended.
Compliance by Contractors and Vendors: The County Agency further agrees that by
accepting this Civil Rights Assurance Agreement, it will obtain a written statement of assurance
from all of its contractors and vendors (i.e., applying to all programs), assuring that they will also
operate in compliance with the stated nondiscrimination laws, regulations, policies, and
guidance. The written statement of assurance from all of its contractors and vendors must be
maintained as part of the County Agency’s Comprehensive Civil Rights Plan and must be made
available for review upon request by the State of Minnesota or the U.S. Department of
Agriculture.
RECIPIENT AGREES TO COMPLY WITH ALL APPLICABLE FEDERAL AND
STATE CIVIL RIGHTS LAWS:
The County Agency agrees to:
1.

Administer all programs in accordance with the provisions contained in the Food
and Nutrition Act of 2008, as amended, and in the manner prescribed by
regulations issued pursuant to the Act; and to follow the FNS-approved State Plan
of Operation.

2.

Assurance of Civil Rights Compliance: Comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights
Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000d et seq.), Title IX of the Education Amendments of
1

Page 14 of 112

1972 (20 U.S.C. 1681 et seq.), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29
U.S.C. 794), the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 (42 U.S.C 6101 et seq.), section
11(c) of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, as of amended (7 U.S.C 2020), Title
II and Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 as amended
by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (42 U.S.C. 12131-12189) as implemented
by Department of Justice regulations at 28 CFR part 35 and 36, Executive Order
13166, “Improving Access to Services for Persons with Limited English
Proficiency” (August 11, 2000), and all requirements imposed by the regulations
issued by the Department of Agriculture to the effect that, no person in the United
States shall, on the grounds of sex, including gender identity and sexual
orientation, race, color, age, political belief, religious creed, disability, or national
origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be
otherwise subject to discrimination under SNAP. This includes program-specific
requirements found at 7 CFR part 15 et. seq. and 7 CFR 272.6.
This assurance is given in consideration of and for the purpose of obtaining any
and all Federal assistance extended to the State by the USDA under the authority
of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, as amended. Federal financial assistance
includes grants, and loans of Federal funds; reimbursable expenditures grants or
donations of Federal property and interest in property; the detail of Federal
personnel; the sale, lease of, or permissions to use Federal property or interest in
such property; the furnishing of services without consideration, or at a nominal
consideration, or at a consideration that is reduced for the purpose of assisting the
recipient or in recognition of the public interest to be served by such sale, lease, or
furnishing of services to the recipient; or any improvements made with Federal
financial assistance extended to the State by USDA. This assistance also includes
any Federal agreement, arrangement, or other contract that has as one of its
purposes the provision of cash assistance for the purchase of food, cash assistance
for purchase or rental of food service equipment or any other financial assistance
extended in reliance on the representations and agreements made in this
assurance.
By accepting this assurance, the County agency agrees to compile data, maintain
records, and submit records and reports as required, to permit effective
enforcement of nondiscrimination laws and permit authorized USDA personnel
during hours of program operation to review and copy such records, books, and
accounts, access such facilities and interview such personnel as needed to
ascertain compliance with the nondiscrimination laws. If there are any violations
of this assurance, the State agency , shall have the right to seek judicial
enforcement of this assurance. This assurance is binding on the County agency, its
successors, transferees and assignees as it receives assistance or retains possession
of any assistance from USDA. The person or persons whose signatures appear
below are authorized to sign this assurance on behalf of the County agency.
3.

(For States with Indian Reservations only). Implement the program in a manner
that is responsive to the special need of American Indians on reservations and
2

Page 15 of 112

consult in good faith with tribal organizations about that portion of the State’s
Plan of Operation pertaining to the implementation of the Program for the
members of the tribe on reservations.
4.

FNS agrees to: 1. Pay administrative cost in accordance with the Food and
Nutrition Act of 2008, implementing regulations, and an approved Cost
Allocation Pan.
2.Carry out any other responsibilities delegated by the Secretary in the Food and
Nutrition Act of 2008, as amended.

By signing on behalf of the County Agency, I state that I am authorized to bind the County
Agency to the terms of the 2027-2028 Civil Rights Assurance Agreement and commit it to
the above provisions.

Scott Windschitl

Signature of agency representative

Print Name

Brown County

1117 Center Street
PO Box 788
New Ulm, MN 56073

Name of County Agency

Street Address, City, State, Zip Code

Unless amended or rescinded, this 2027-2028 Civil Rights Assurance Agreement is valid
through December 31, 2028.

3

Page 16 of 112

ADDENDUM
Clarification of SNAP Civil Rights Requirements - Executive Order 13166, "Improving
Access to Services for Persons with Limited English Proficiency (LEP)," and Titles II and
III of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
This addendum clarifies core civil rights requirements to ensure meaningful access to
programs, services, and information for persons with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) and
persons with disabilities in accordance with Federal law, regulations, and current guidance
from the U.S. Department of Department of Justice (DOJ) and the U.S. Department of
Agriculture (USDA).
Meaningful Access for LEP Individuals
County agencies that participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) must
take reasonable steps to ensure that LEP persons have meaningful access to programs, services,
and benefits. This includes the requirement to provide bilingual program information and
certification materials and interpretation services to single-language minorities in certain project
areas. SNAP County agencies that do not provide meaningful access for LEP individuals risk
violating prohibitions against discrimination based on National Origin in the Food and
Nutrition Act of 2008, as amended, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI), and
SNAP program regulations.
Federal LEP regulations and guidance include:
SNAP regulations provided by 7 CFR Part 272.4 (b), "Bilingual requirements";
Executive Order 13166 of August 11, 2000, "Improving Access to Services for Persons
with Limited English Proficiency," reprinted in 65 FR 50121, 50122 (August 16, 2000);
DOJ policy guidance titled, "Guidance to Federal Financial Assistance Recipients
Regarding Title VI Prohibition Against National Origin Discrimination Affecting
Limited English Proficient Persons," published in 67 FR 41455, 41457 (June 18, 2002);
and
USDA policy guidance titled, "Guidance to Federal Financial Assistance Recipients
Regarding Title VI Prohibition Against National Origin Discrimination Affecting
Limited English Proficient Persons," published in 79 FR 70771-70784 (November 28,
2014).
Four Factor Analysis for Assessing LEP Needs
To be in compliance, the Title VI guidance provided by DOJ and USDA instructs County
Agencies to assess the LEP needs of the population served and determine the LEP services
required by balancing four factors:
1.

The number or proportion of persons with limited English proficiency are eligible
to be served or likely to be encountered within the area serviced by the recipient;

4

Page 17 of 112

2.

The frequency with which persons with limited English proficiency come in
contact with the program;

3.

The nature and importance of the program, activity, or service to people's lives;
and

4.

The resources available to the recipient and costs.

SNAP County agencies must also comply with the specific requirements established by 7 CFR
Part 272.4 (b) and should include these obligations in the LEP assessment.
Developing an LEP Plan
After completing an assessment of LEP needs, SNAP County agencies should develop an
implementing plan to address the LEP needs of the population served. This may include
contracting for oral interpretation services, hiring bilingual staff, arranging for telephone
interpreters and/or language lines, coordinating community volunteers, translating vital
documents, and providing written notice that language line services are available in appropriate
languages. Quality and accuracy of the language service is critical in order to avoid serious
consequences to the LEP person and to the recipient. LEP needs should be considered in
developing County and local budgets and front-line staff should understand how to obtain LEP
services.
USDA's 2014 policy guidance includes detailed information on assessing LEP needs, identifying
practices for translating documents that will be seen as strong evidence of compliance. For
additional assistance and information regarding LEP matters, please also visit
http://www.lep.gov.The website includes online LEP mapping tools designed to help assess the
language needs of the population served by a particular program or facility.
Ensuring Equal Opportunity Access for Persons with Disabilities
SNAP County agencies must also ensure equal opportunity access for persons with disabilities.
This includes ensuring that communications with applicants, participants, members of the public,
and companions with disabilities are as effective as communications with people without
disabilities. County agencies that do not provide persons with disabilities equal opportunity
access to programs may risk violating prohibitions against disability discrimination in the
Rehabilitation Act of 1978, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and SNAP program
regulations. DOJ published revised final regulations implementing Titles II and III of the ADA
on September 15, 2010. These regulations are codified at 28 CFR Part 35, “Nondiscrimination
on the Basis of Disability in State and Local Government Services” and 28 CFR Part 36,
“Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Public Accommodations and Commercial
Facilities.” In accordance with the implementing regulations, County Agencies must provide
auxiliary aids and services where necessary to ensure effective communication and equal
opportunity access to program benefits for individuals with disabilities. The type of auxiliary
aids and services required will vary, but a County agency may not require an individual with a
disability to bring another individual to interpret, and may rely on a person accompanying a
5

Page 18 of 112

disabled individual only in limited circumstances. When a County agency communicates with
applicants and beneficiaries by telephone, it must provide text telephone services (TTY) or an
equally effective electronic telecommunications system to communicate with individuals who
are deaf, hard of hearing, or hearing impaired. County agencies must also ensure that interested
persons, including people with low vision or who are hard of hearing can obtain information as
to the existence and location of accessible services, activities, and facilities. For more
information, please visit the ADA website: www.ada.gov
Please submit the signed 2027-2028 STATE-COUNTY CIVIL RIGHTS ASSURANCE
AGREEMENT via email of fax to:
Civil Rights Coordinator
Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families
Equal Opportunity and Access Division (EOAD)
St. Paul, MN 55155
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 651-539-8123
Facsimile: 651-539-0012

6

Page 19 of 112

CONSENT AGENDA
Originating Department: Human Resources
Item: Staffing Report

Background:

Supporting Documents:
1.
Staffing Report

Page 20 of 112

Staffing Report
Employee Name

Status

Notes

Number of
Open positions

Effective Date

Position

Department

8/11/2026

FT - Corrections Officer

Corrections

Accepted offers, background
pending (1), screenings ongoing
(1)

9/8/2026

FT Dispatcher

Dispatch

Screenings ongoing (2), accepting
applications

9/29/2026

FT Deputy Sheriff

Sheriff

Interviewing

2

10/1/2026

PT <30 Deputy Recorder

Recorder's

Interviewing

1

2

3

10/1/2026

PT 30+ Payroll Accountant

HR

Interviewing

1

10/13/2026

FT Family Based Service Provider

HS

Accepting Applications

1

10/13/2026

FT Deputy Recorder

Recorder's

Accepting Applications

1

Page 21 of 112

REQUEST FOR BOARD ACTION
Requested Board Date: 10/27/2026
Requested Presentation Time (if applicable): 9:00
AM
Item: SCHA Fall 2026 Report (20 mins)

Originating Department: Human Services
Presenter:

Board Action Requested:
Accept and order file the South Country Health Alliance (SCHA) Fall 2026 Report.
Background:
South County Health Alliance 2026 Fall Report regarding key organizational, program and legislative updates
presented by Leota Lind, SCHA CEO.
Supporting Documents:
1.
SCHA Member County Board 2026 Fall Report_Final
Administrator's Comments:
Kellie Augustin, Administration
Anne Broskoff, Human Services
Sam Hansen, Administration

Created/Initiated - 10/7/2026
Approved - 10/7/2026
Final Approval - 10/22/2026

Page 22 of 112

MEMBER COUNTY BOARD
2026 FALL REPORT
Key Organizational, Program, and Legislative Updates
Leota Lind, CEO

10/6/2026

Page 23 of 112

What's Ahead

1

2

3

4

Contracts and
membership:

Operations:

Policy:

Milestones:

PBM transition,
leadership changes,
and finance update

Federal
implementation
and legislative
strategy

CARMA
development and
our 25th
anniversary

CMS and DHS
updates

2026 Fall County Board Report

3 112
Page 24 of

CMS Contracts Updates
SeniorCare Complete (H2419)

AbilityCare (H5703)

•
•

•
•

•

Passive enrollment begins January 1, 2027
Approximately 250 new members
anticipated
2027 rates: + 9.1%

No significant program changes anticipated
2027 rates: +13.3%

Overall Medicare rate increase: 12%

250

new members anticipated under SeniorCare Complete, beginning January 1, 2027

2026 Fall County Board Report

4 112
Page 25 of

DHS Contracts, Membership & Rates
Contracts
Families and Children, SNBC, MSHO and MSC+

Membership
Approximately 150 additional MSC+ members
projected
Anticipate a phased reduction in membership
in PMAP related to new Federal HR1
requirements

2026 Fall County Board Report

2027 rate changes
Overall

+6.4%

PMAP

+5.7%

MinnesotaCare

+3.2%

SNBC

+3.0%

Seniors

−2.4%
5 112
Page 26 of

Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) Transition
New partner

Effective date

Abarca

January 1, 2027

Full-service PBM licensed in MN; sub-contractor to PerformRx today
Low-risk transition: no change to claim system or file exchange
Implementation underway with members, providers and pharmacies
Offers future process improvements: CRM system and BetterPAth
Our priority: A seamless pharmacy experience for members
2026 Fall County Board Report

6 112
Page 27 of

Leadership Transitions

Bill Lawrence, Director of HR:

Scott Schufman, CFO:

Retiring at year-end; role will be refilled at the
manager level

Retiring at year-end; Wakely is planned to
provide financial services

We thank Bill and Scott for their years of leadership and service

2026 Fall County Board Report

7 112
Page 28 of

August 2026 Financials
$963,000

91.7%

$47.5M

Net gain through August

Loss ratio year to date

Capital and surplus

Revenues and claims

Administrative expenses

Total revenues $2 million (1%) below budget

$865,000 below budget

Net claims expense $3 million (2%) above
budget

8.5% of revenue — 0.3 point better than
budget and 1.8 points better than last year

Loss ratio is 2.6 points above budget but 7.1 points better than the same period last year
2026 Fall County Board Report

8 112
Page 29 of

Preparing for HR 1 Implementation
Noncitizen adult MA eligibility changes — effective October 1, 2026
Six-month MA renewals — effective January 1, 2027
Work or community engagement requirements — effective January 1, 2027
Reduced retroactive MA eligibility to one month — effective January 1, 2028 (state funds maintain
three months through December 31, 2027)

Our focus: Member outreach and education to help members understand the changes
and maintain access to care
2026 Fall County Board Report

9 112
Page 30 of

CARMA: Building the Model
Opportunity: CARMA is a unique opportunity for county-led innovation in serving people
with complex health and social needs.

1

2

3

Progress

Current work

Next milestone

Monthly meetings are
underway

Contract structure and
financial model

RFP anticipated in early
2027

2026 Fall County Board Report

Page 3110
of 112

2027 Legislative Strategy
1

Assess the post-election landscape

2

Prioritize county-based purchasing and rural health care

3

Align messages with counties and partners

4

Prepare for the 2027 legislative session

2026 Fall County Board Report

Page 3211
of 112

Celebrating 25 years of Local Partnership,
Innovation and Service
November 1, 2026: South Country marks its 25th anniversary

25

YEARS

Celebrations will recognize the counties, staff, providers, partners and
members who made this milestone possible

Annual AMC Dinner, Monday December 7
2026 Fall County Board Report

Page 3312
of 112

Looking Ahead Together
2027 will bring meaningful change—and new opportunities
County partnership and engagement remain central to our success

Questions and discussion
Page 34 of 112

REQUEST FOR BOARD ACTION
Requested Board Date: 10/27/2026
Originating Department: Human Services
Requested Presentation Time (if applicable): with
Presenter: Anne Broskoff, Human Services Director
other HS items
Item: Sleepy Eye HRA SAHA Grant Agreement (5 mins)
Board Action Requested:
Approve the Statewide Affordable Housing Aid Grant Agreement awarded to Sleepy Eye Housing and
Redevelopment Authority in the amount of $40,000 for the Owerner-Occupied Housing Rehabilitation
Revolving Loan Project.
Background:
The Statewide Affordable Housing Aid (SAHA)Grant Committee met and awarded the Sleepy Eye Housing
and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) $40,000 for the Owner-Occupied Housing Rehabilitation Revolving Loan
Project. The agreement is attached along with the award letter (exhibit A) that further specifies the project
expectations.
Supporting Documents:
1.
Sleepy Eye HRA SAHA Grant Agreement
Administrator's Comments:
Laura Whittington, Human Services
Anne Broskoff, Human Services
Charles Hanson, Attorney
Sam Hansen, Administration

Created/Initiated - 10/20/2026
Approved - 10/20/2026
Approved - 10/20/2026
Final Approval - 10/22/2026

Page 35 of 112

Page 36 of 112

Page 37 of 112

10/15/2026

Page 38 of 112

REQUEST FOR BOARD ACTION
Requested Board Date: 10/27/2026
Originating Department: Human Services
Requested Presentation Time (if applicable): with
Presenter: Anne Broskoff, Human Services Director
other HS items
Item: Cottonwood Ridge SAHA Grant Agreement (5 mins)
Board Action Requested:
Approve the Statewide Affordable Housing Aid Grant Agreement awarded to Cottonwood Ridge located in
Springfield in the amount of $60,000 for the Asphat Rehabilitation Project.
Background:
The Statewide Affordable Housing Aid (SAHA) Grant Committee met and awarded to Cottonwood Ridge (a
low-income senior apartment building) $60,000 for the Asphalt Rehabilitation (parking lot) Project. The
agreement is attached along with the award letter (exhibit A) that further specifies the project expectations along
with the bids they obtained for the project.
Supporting Documents:
1.
Cottonwood Ridge Brown County SAHA Agreement
Administrator's Comments:
Laura Whittington, Human Services
Anne Broskoff, Human Services
Charles Hanson, Attorney
Sam Hansen, Administration

Created/Initiated - 10/20/2026
Approved - 10/20/2026
Approved - 10/20/2026
Final Approval - 10/22/2026

Page 39 of 112

Brown County Statewide Affordable Housing Aid Grant Agreement
This Grant Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into by and between Brown County (“County”)
and the grant recipient, Cottowood Ridge, (“Grantee”) for the purpose of providing financial
assistance from the Statewide Affordable Housing Aid (SAHA). The aid must be used in
accordance with the following terms and conditions:
1. Use of Aid
Grantee agrees to use the awarded funds of $60,000 as specifically described in Exhibit A. Any
use of funds that deviates from the original proposal, as specified in Exhibit A, must be approved
by Brown County before the expenditure of grant funds.
2. Affordability Commitment and Repayment Provision
Grantee recipients of SAHA funding shall maintain the assisted property/project for affordable
housing purposes serving income-eligible households for a minimum period of seven (7) years
following project completion or issuance of final grant payment, whichever occurs later
(“Affordability Period”).
If the recipient sells, transfers, conveys, refinances in a manner that removes affordability
restrictions, changes the use of the property, or otherwise ceases operation of the property as
eligible affordable housing during the Affordability Period without prior written approval from
the administering agency, the recipient shall repay all or a portion of the SAHA funds as
determined below.
Repayment Schedule:
•
•
•
•
•
•

Years 0–2: 100% repayment required
Year 3: 80%
Year 4: 60%
Year 5: 40%
Year 6: 20%
Year 7+: No repayment obligation

Repayment obligations shall survive transfer of ownership and may be secured by a recorded
lien, mortgage, covenant, or other legal instrument as determined appropriate by the
administering agency and executed by the grantee.
The administering agency reserves the right to approve transfers where the successor entity
agrees in writing to continue compliance with all affordability requirements for the remainder of
the Affordability Period.
Repayment shall be limited to available net proceeds from the sale after satisfaction of superior
debt and closing costs.

1
Page 40 of 112

3. Deadline and Reporting Requirements
The deadline for reimbursement is November 30, 2028. Brown County will not issue any funds
after this date and the Grantee will not be entitled to any amount hereunder after this date.
Brown County will disburse funds upon receipt of sufficient, adequate, and proper documentation
showing expenditure consistent with Exhibit A. Payments will only be issued to the Grantee who
has paid for the work, or to a vendor who is charging for the work. Payments will be made upon
receipt of invoices or other documents that may be required by the County. Along with final
document requesting payment, the Grantee must submit final project costs, and its analysis of the
project's current community benefit to the County Board, especially if that benefit differs from the
information provided in the grant proposal.
4. Audit
In accordance with Minnesota Statutes section 16C.05, subd. 5, the County, the State Auditor, and
their authorized representatives may examine, audit, excerpt, and transcribe any pertinent records
related to this Agreement. Such records must be maintained and made available for a period of six
(6) years following the expiration, cancellation, or termination of this Agreement.
5. Indemnification
Grantee shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless County, its present and former officials,
officers, agents, volunteers and employees from any liability, claims, causes of action, judgements,
damages, losses, costs, or expenses, including attorney’s fees, resulting directly or indirectly from
any act or omission of Grantee, a subcontractor, anyone directly or indirectly employed, by them,
and/or anyone for whose acts and/or omissions they may be liable in the performance of the
services required by this Agreement, and against all loss by reason of the failure of Grantee to
perform any obligation under this Agreement. For clarification and not limitation, this obligation
to defend, indemnify and hold harmless includes but is not limited to any liability, claims or actions
resulting directly or indirectly from alleged infringement of any copyright or any property right of
another, the employment or alleged employment of Grantee personnel, the unlawful disclosure
and/or use of protected data, or other noncompliance with the requirements of these provisions.
6. Nondiscrimination
Grantee shall not discriminate in the sale, rental, or process of sale or rental, of real property
or otherwise make housing unavailable because of a person’s race, color, creed, religion,
national origin, sex, gender identity, marital status, disability, status with regard to public
assistance, sexual orientation, or familial status.
Additionally, during the terms of this Agreement, Grantee shall not exclude any person from
full employment rights on the grounds of any protected status or class, including race, color,
creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, marital status, status with regard to public
assistance, familial status, membership or activity in a local commission, disability, sexual
orientation, or age.

2
Page 41 of 112

Page 42 of 112

EXHIBIT A

Human Services
1117 Center Street PO Box 788
New Ulm, MN 56073-0788
Ph 507-359-6500
Fax 507-359-6542

October 13, 2026

Vicky Krueger
Cottonwood Ridge
712 E Cottonwood Street
Springfield, MN 56087
Dear: Ms. Krueger:
Thank you for your application for the Brown County Statewide Affordable Housing Aid (SAHA) grant. A total of 4
applications were received seeking a total of $640,000 for projects in which the available funding is $100,000. Project
applications were considered based on the categories of: Eligibility and application completeness; Alignment with SAHA
qualifying project types, Project prioritization factors; Income eligibility process; Project impact, need and community
benefit; project timeline and Budget quality and financial feasibility.
The application submitted by Cottonwood Ridge was approved for Asphalt Rehabilitation in the amount of $60,000. Due
to limited funding available and the budget needed for each project the committee decided to partially fund 2 projects
that had the greatest impact and most aligned with SAHA priorities. The retaining wall project was not funded.
The Brown County Statewide Affordable Housing Aid Grant Agreement was sent via email for review and signature.
It is important to the committee that organizations who use public funds attempt to obtain at least two bids for the
project to ensure fiscal responsibility. Please attach the bids and designate which is the selected vendor to the
Agreement. Finally, the Brown County Board of Commissioners would like to learn about the project’s impact at a board
meeting around one year from award. I will be in contact around this time to coordinate this presentation.
I appreciate your interest in improving the housing needs of residents in Brown County. If you have any questions,
please feel free to contact me.
Sincerely,

Anne Broskoff
Director of Human Services
507-359-6531
[email protected]

Brown County Community Services Building

1117 Center Street| New Ulm, MN 56073

507-359-6500
Page 43 of 112

A.R.R. CONSTRUCTION LLC

Estimate

P.O. Box 454
NEW ULM, MN 56073

Date

Estimate #

5/5/2026

1348

Name / Address
St. Johns Circle of Care
201 South County Road 5
Springfield, MN 56087

Job Name

Description

Qty

Rate

Estimate includes black top removal and disposal.
Pouring parking lot with 6" concrete with reinforcement.
Alternate for side walk removal deduct $530.00
Labor and installation included in this estimate.
Estimate provided by Lewis.

74,320.00

Total

Total
74,320.00

$74,320.00

Phone #
507-359-3925

Page 44 of 112

Page 45 of 112

Page 46 of 112

REQUEST FOR BOARD ACTION
Requested Board Date: 10/27/2026
Requested Presentation Time (if applicable): with
other HS Items
Item: Human Services Burial Policy (5 mins)

Originating Department: Human Services
Presenter: Anne Broskoff, Human Services Director

Board Action Requested:
Approve Brown County Human Services Burial Policy
Background:
In 2025 the Brown County Board of Commissioners reviewed and approved a revised burial policy process.
This policy is due for annual review. There are no changes to the policy.
Supporting Documents:
1.
Burial Policy 10.27.26
Administrator's Comments:
Laura Whittington, Human Services
Anne Broskoff, Human Services
Sam Hansen, Administration

Created/Initiated - 10/20/2026
Approved - 10/20/2026
Final Approval - 10/22/2026

Page 47 of 112

Human Services
1117 Center Street PO Box 788
New Ulm, MN 56073-0788
Ph 507-359-6500
Fax 507-359-6542

Title: Brown County Paid Cremation and Burial Policy
Purpose: Provide guidance for Brown County residence when requesting a County paid
cremation and burial, and to agency staff approving County paid cremation or burial expenses
under the Minnesota Family Investment Program and Minnesota Poor Relief Law.
Reference: Minnesota Statute 261.035, 261.04, 142G.95, 149A.80 and Brown County Board
Action.
Effective Date: October 28, 2025
Personnel Responsible: Collections Officer/Fraud Investigator, Eligibility Worker, Income
Maintenance Supervisor.
Approved by County Board Action: October 28, 2025
Policy Reviewed Date: October 28, 2026

County Burial Policy
1. Eligibility Criteria:
The deceased must not have assets exceeding the cost of a county burial
($3,000), with exceptions for:
• One working vehicle.
• A home/residence if a surviving spouse, child under 18, or disabled child
resides there.
• All available assets must be applied to or recovered for burial costs.
• Assets include, but is not limited to cash, bank accounts, additional
vehicles, life insurance to a family member, additional properties or any
other asset of value.
• GoFundMe, crowdfunding or other fundraising proceeds are considered assets.
• County burials cannot be upgraded or improved upon; doing so voids eligibility.
• County provided plots or niches are only available when no other options exist.
• No out-of-state transportation is allowed unless approved by the County
Director.
• Transportation costs for autopsy are not covered.
2. Burial Type Preference:
•

•
•

Cremation is preferred due to cost.
Traditional burial may be approved if requested in writing by the family due to
personal or religious reasons.

Brown County Community Services Building

1117 Center Street| New Ulm, MN 56073

507-359-6500

Page 48 of 112

Human Services
1117 Center Street PO Box 788
New Ulm, MN 56073-0788
Ph 507-359-6500
Fax 507-359-6542

•

If no preference is known, cremation will be the default.

3. Payment Policy:
•

The county burial rate approved by the Brown County Commissioners must be
accepted as final payment.

County Burial Procedures
1. Application Process:
Applications must be submitted by the next of kin or authorized individual
through the funeral home.
• Applications must be pre-authorized with the funeral home.
• County staff must inform applicants of the cremation preference during the
application process.
2. Initial Review:
•

When an application is received, review the deceased’s information to
determine if they are known to the agency.
• If known, review agency files for asset information to verify information
on the application; resolve any discrepancies.
• Check for GoFundMe or other fundraising efforts.
3. Asset Assessment:
•

If assets (after exceptions) are less than or equal to $3,000, approve the burial
and:
• Notify the funeral home.
• Refer the case to the Collections Officer for potential recovery.
• Document the action in the case notes.
• If assets (after exceptions) exceed $3,000, deny the request and:
• Notify the applicant and funeral home.
• Document the action in the case notes.
4. Post-Approval:
•

•
•

Refer all approved cases to the Collections Officer for recovery efforts.
Ensure all documentation and case notes are completed.

Brown County Community Services Building

1117 Center Street| New Ulm, MN 56073

507-359-6500

Page 49 of 112

Human Services
1117 Center Street PO Box 788
New Ulm, MN 56073-0788
Ph 507-359-6500
Fax 507-359-6542

Brown County Limits for Final Disposition:
Funeral Director Professional Fee
Cremation fee
Casket
Vault
Urn
Memorial cards
Opening/closing the grave:
Transportation:
Medical Examiner Fee if required by county
where death took place:
Mailing of cremains to funeral home vs
transporting

Brown County Community Services Building

$2100
Up to $700.00
Invoice cost for most basic plus 5%
Invoice cost plus 5%
Basic urn used for county cremations up to
$225.00
Up to $75
At cost
$1.25 per load mile after 5 miles
At cost
Whichever is most cost effective

1117 Center Street| New Ulm, MN 56073

507-359-6500

Page 50 of 112

REQUEST FOR BOARD ACTION
Requested Board Date: 10/27/2026
Originating Department: Human Services
Requested Presentation Time (if applicable): with
Presenter: Anne Broskoff, Human Services Director
other HS items
Item: Medical Assistance Overpayment Recovery Policy and Procedure (5 mins)
Board Action Requested:
Approve the Brown County Human Services Medical Assistance Overpayment Recovery Policy and Procedure
Background:
The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) resumed assessment and recovery of certain Medical
Assistance (MA) overpayments effective July 1, 2025, following the expiration of temporary federal COVID-19
public health emergency protections.
Under the revised policy, DHS, counties, and Tribal agencies may assess and recover overpayments when an
enrollee or their representative provided incorrect eligibility information that resulted in MA benefits being paid
for which the enrollee was not eligible. Recovery is generally limited to overpayments made on or after July 1,
2025, unless a court judgment authorizes recovery of an earlier overpayment.
Supporting Documents:
1.
MA OP Board 10.26
Administrator's Comments:
Laura Whittington, Human Services
Anne Broskoff, Human Services
Charles Hanson, Attorney
Sam Hansen, Administration

Created/Initiated - 10/20/2026
Approved - 10/20/2026
Approved - 10/20/2026
Final Approval - 10/22/2026

Page 51 of 112

Human Services
1117 Center Street PO Box 788
New Ulm, MN 56073-0788
Ph 507-359-6500
Fax 507-359-6542

Medical Assistance (MA) Overpayment Recovery Policy and Procedures
Effective Date: October 27, 2026
County Board Approval Date:
Policy Review Date: October 27, 2027
Applicable Agencies: County, Tribal, and state servicing agencies responsible for administering Medical
Assistance (MA) overpayments.
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to establish consistent requirements and procedures for identifying,
determining, calculating, establishing, and recovering Medical Assistance (MA) overpayments.
This policy ensures that MA overpayments are reviewed for legal recoverability, accurately calculated,
properly documented, and pursued in accordance with applicable federal and state laws, Minnesota
Health Care Programs (MHCP) requirements, Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) guidance,
and due process protections.
2. Scope
This policy applies to the processing and recovery of MA overpayments by county, Tribal, and state
servicing agencies.
All staff involved in the overpayment recovery process must follow this policy and applicable DHS
guidance, including current ONESource – Overpayments guidance.
3. Policy Statement
An MA overpayment occurs when an enrollee receives more MHCP benefits than they were entitled to
receive because of fraud, theft, abuse, or an error attributable to the enrollee, as applicable under
governing requirements.
When an overpayment is legally recoverable, the agency may seek repayment of the amount incorrectly
paid on behalf of the enrollee. Recoverable amounts may include payments made directly to providers
through fee-for-service arrangements or through managed care capitation.
Overpayments resulting solely from agency error are not collectible under this policy.
All recovery activities must comply with applicable legal requirements, program guidance, and due
process protections. Staff must determine whether an overpayment is recoverable before establishing a
debt or pursuing collection.
4. Determine Whether the Overpayment Is Recoverable
Before establishing an MA overpayment, staff must determine whether recovery is permitted under
applicable law and DHS guidance.
Brown County Community Services Building

1117 Center Street| New Ulm, MN 56073

507-359-6500

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Human Services
1117 Center Street PO Box 788
New Ulm, MN 56073-0788
Ph 507-359-6500
Fax 507-359-6542

4.1 Public Health Emergency Period
MA overpayments made during the period from March 1, 2020, through June 30, 2025, are subject to
applicable public health emergency recovery restrictions.
Overpayments made before July 1, 2025, must be forgiven or waived unless a court judgment was
obtained or a court determined that criminal fraud occurred.
Overpayments made on or after July 1, 2025, may be assessed and recovered when otherwise legally
recoverable.
Staff must review current DHS guidance and applicable legal requirements before taking action on an
overpayment associated with this period.
4.2 Recoverable Overpayments
An MA overpayment may be recoverable when it results from:
•

Enrollee error.

•

An enrollee losing an appeal.

•

Criminal fraud.

An overpayment caused solely by agency error is not collectible.
The circumstances of the overpayment and the basis for determining that recovery is legally permitted
must be documented.
4.3 Minimum Amount for Establishment
The agency should establish and pursue an MA overpayment when the amount owed is $1,000 or more.
Amounts below $1,000 generally should not be pursued because the administrative costs associated
with establishing and collecting the debt may exceed the amount reasonably recoverable.
Applicable DHS guidance and controlling legal requirements must be followed when determining
whether an overpayment should be established.
5. Determine Who Is Responsible for Repayment
The individual who received the overpayment is generally responsible for repayment. However, another
individual may be primarily liable under applicable requirements.
The following rules apply:
•

Spouse: A spouse is responsible for the other spouse's overpayment unless the overpayment
occurred before the individuals were married.

Brown County Community Services Building

1117 Center Street| New Ulm, MN 56073

507-359-6500

Page 53 of 112

Human Services
1117 Center Street PO Box 788
New Ulm, MN 56073-0788
Ph 507-359-6500
Fax 507-359-6542

•

Parent or guardian: A parent or guardian who applies for MA coverage on behalf of a minor
child is responsible for repayment of the child's overpayment unless a court orders otherwise.

The basis for identifying the responsible party must be documented. Questions about legal liability must
be referred for appropriate review when necessary.
6. Calculate the Overpayment
Before issuing a Notice of Overpayment, the agency must determine the exact amount incorrectly paid
on behalf of the enrollee.
The recoverable amount may include eligible payments made:
•

Directly to a provider.

•

Through fee-for-service.

•

Through managed care capitation.

The calculation must not include administrative fees a provider billed to a managed care organization or
county-based purchasing plan for the enrollee's health care.
6.1 Required Documentation and Calculation Steps
Staff must:
1. Review the applicable ONESource – Overpayments guidance.
2. Request the enrollee's claims payment history using the Request for an MHCP Member's Claims
Payment History (DHS-2133).
3. Complete the MA Overpayment Calculation (DHS-8105) for each overpaid MA enrollee in the
household.
4. Retain documentation supporting the calculation and the reason for the overpayment.
5. Review the calculation for accuracy and completeness before issuing the notice.
7. Establish the Overpayment and Provide Notice
Once the agency determines that an overpayment is recoverable and the amount has been calculated,
the agency must establish the overpayment and provide written notice using the applicable form:
•

Notice of Medical Assistance Overpayment (DHS-4600); or

•

Notice of MinnesotaCare Overpayment (DHS-4939), when applicable.

The notice must:
1. Explain why the overpayment occurred.
Brown County Community Services Building

1117 Center Street| New Ulm, MN 56073

507-359-6500

Page 54 of 112

Human Services
1117 Center Street PO Box 788
New Ulm, MN 56073-0788
Ph 507-359-6500
Fax 507-359-6542

2. Show how the overpayment was calculated.
3. Request repayment.
4. Explain that additional collection action may be taken if the debt is not paid.
5. Advise the enrollee of applicable appeal rights.
The issuance or delivery of the notice must be documented in the case record. The notice must satisfy
applicable due process requirements.
8. Allow the Enrollee 90 Days to Respond
The agency must allow the enrollee 90 days from the date the first Notice of Overpayment is sent to
respond.
During this period, the enrollee may:
•

Pay the overpayment in full.

•

Establish an approved repayment arrangement.

•

Appeal the overpayment.

•

Communicate with the agency regarding the debt.

The enrollee's response, any appeal, payments received, repayment arrangements, and other relevant
actions taken during the 90-day period must be documented.
Collection activity must comply with applicable appeal requirements and any restrictions on collection
while an appeal or other review is pending.
9. Determine the Appropriate Collection Method
After the 90-day response period, the agency must determine whether the debt can be resolved
through voluntary repayment or whether involuntary collection is appropriate.
The case history, enrollee response, status of any appeal, and applicable legal requirements must be
reviewed before proceeding.
9.1 Voluntary Repayment
Voluntary repayment options may include:
•

Lump-sum payment.

•

Installment payments.

•

Confession of Judgment.

Brown County Community Services Building

1117 Center Street| New Ulm, MN 56073

507-359-6500

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Human Services
1117 Center Street PO Box 788
New Ulm, MN 56073-0788
Ph 507-359-6500
Fax 507-359-6542

Each county, Tribal, or state servicing agency establishes its own procedures for receiving voluntary
repayments.
Any voluntary repayment process must advise the enrollee of the consequences of failing to comply
with the repayment agreement. Use of DHS-4600 or DHS-4939, as applicable, is recommended for this
purpose.
A copy of any repayment agreement must be retained, and payments received must be documented.
9.2 Failure to Comply With a Voluntary Agreement
If an enrollee fails to make an agreed-upon lump-sum payment or stops making agreed-upon
installment payments, the agency must obtain a court judgment to continue collection of the amount
owed.
A State Fair Hearing appeal decision is not a court judgment.
The failure to comply and any subsequent legal or collection action must be documented.
10. Confession of Judgment
A Confession of Judgment is a voluntary repayment option that may eliminate the need for the agency
to file a lawsuit.
Under this arrangement, the enrollee authorizes the court to enter a judgment against them without a
trial and signs an acknowledgment waiving the right to notice and trial.
Because this process involves legal requirements and the waiver of legal rights, the agency must consult
with an attorney before implementing or using a Confession of Judgment.
All related documents must be retained in the case record.
11. Involuntary Collection
If, after 90 days from the date the first Notice of Overpayment is sent, the enrollee has not responded,
has not appealed, or has communicated a refusal to repay the debt, the agency may pursue available
involuntary collection methods, subject to applicable legal requirements and appeal restrictions.
Available methods include:
1. Court action.
2. Revenue recapture.
3. Judgment by operation of law, when legally applicable.
The rationale for selecting the collection method and all supporting records must be documented.
12. Court Action
Brown County Community Services Building

1117 Center Street| New Ulm, MN 56073

507-359-6500

Page 56 of 112

Human Services
1117 Center Street PO Box 788
New Ulm, MN 56073-0788
Ph 507-359-6500
Fax 507-359-6542

Court action requires the agency to sue the enrollee to recover the debt.
Each county, Tribal, or state servicing agency establishes procedures for initiating court action. Legal
assistance may be required.
12.1 Conciliation Court
If the amount owed is $20,000 or less, the enrollee may be sued in county conciliation court. An
attorney is not required.
12.2 District Court
If the amount owed is more than $20,000, the lawsuit must be brought in district court, and an attorney
is required.
Collection under this method may begin once a court judgment has been entered and filed against the
enrollee, subject to applicable law.
Copies of court filings, judgments, and related collection documentation must be retained.
13. Revenue Recapture
Revenue recapture allows the agency to recover an eligible overpayment by intercepting certain
payments owed to the enrollee, including:
•

Income tax refunds.

•

Property tax refunds.

•

Lottery winnings.

A court judgment is not required before using revenue recapture, provided the debt and collection
action meet applicable requirements.
The Minnesota Department of Revenue administers the revenue recapture process. Referrals, notices,
and collection results must be documented.
14. Judgment by Operation of Law
Judgment by operation of law is available only for a limited number of health care programs.
This method may be used only when the program is funded solely with state funds and does not involve
federal funding.
Program eligibility must be verified, and Minnesota Statutes, section 256.0471, and applicable DHS
guidance must be strictly followed before using this collection method.
15. Case Documentation

Brown County Community Services Building

1117 Center Street| New Ulm, MN 56073

507-359-6500

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Human Services
1117 Center Street PO Box 788
New Ulm, MN 56073-0788
Ph 507-359-6500
Fax 507-359-6542

The agency must maintain documentation sufficient to support the establishment and collection of each
overpayment.
Documentation must include, as applicable:
•

Reason for the overpayment.

•

Claims payment history.

•

Completed MA Overpayment Calculation (DHS-8105).

•

Notice of Overpayment.

•

Documentation of notice issuance or delivery.

•

Enrollee response and appeal information.

•

Voluntary repayment agreement.

•

Payment history.

•

Collection actions and correspondence.

•

Court filings and judgments.

•

Revenue recapture documentation.

Staff must follow current ONESource – Overpayments guidance and applicable records retention
requirements when documenting and processing overpayments.
16. Process Summary
The MA overpayment recovery process generally follows these steps:
1. Identify the potential overpayment.
2. Determine whether the overpayment is legally recoverable.
3. Identify the person responsible for repayment.
4. Determine whether the amount meets the agency's $1,000 establishment threshold.
5. Obtain the enrollee's claims payment history.
6. Calculate the overpayment using DHS-8105.
7. Establish the overpayment and issue the applicable Notice of Overpayment.
8. Allow 90 days for the enrollee to respond or appeal.
9. Accept voluntary repayment when appropriate.
Brown County Community Services Building

1117 Center Street| New Ulm, MN 56073

507-359-6500

Page 58 of 112

Human Services
1117 Center Street PO Box 788
New Ulm, MN 56073-0788
Ph 507-359-6500
Fax 507-359-6542

10. If the debt remains unresolved, determine the appropriate collection method.
11. Pursue court action, revenue recapture, or judgment by operation of law when legally available.
12. Document all actions, decisions, payments, and collection outcomes.
17. Compliance
All MA overpayment activities must comply with applicable federal and state law, MHCP policy, due
process requirements, and current DHS guidance.
If this policy conflicts with a controlling statute, regulation, court order, or current DHS/MHCP guidance,
the controlling authority must be followed.
Questions involving legal liability, court action, Confession of Judgment, or uncertainty regarding
recoverability must be referred for appropriate legal review.
18. Policy Review and Revision
This policy will be reviewed at least annually and updated as necessary to reflect changes in federal or
state law, DHS/MHCP guidance, court decisions, or agency procedures.
Scheduled Review Date: October 27, 2027.
Substantive policy revisions must be submitted for approval in accordance with applicable county policy
and governance requirements.

Brown County Community Services Building

1117 Center Street| New Ulm, MN 56073

507-359-6500

Page 59 of 112

REQUEST FOR BOARD ACTION
Requested Board Date: 10/27/2026
Requested Presentation Time (if applicable): with
other HS items
Item: Human Services Monthly Update (3 mins)

Originating Department: Human Services
Presenter: Anne Broskoff, Human Services Director

Board Action Requested:
Accept and order file the Human Services Monthly Update report.
Background:
Human Services Monthly Update Report
Supporting Documents:
1.
Human Services Monthly Update
2.
Oct26 OHP graph
3.
Ivy House Award2
4.
2026 MFSRC Conference attendance report for Commisioners
Administrator's Comments:
Kellie Augustin, Administration
Anne Broskoff, Human Services
Sam Hansen, Administration

Created/Initiated - 10/20/2026
Approved - 10/20/2026
Final Approval - 10/22/2026

Page 60 of 112

Human Services Monthly Update
October 27, 2026
1. Out of Home Placements:
• Placement Updates:
o 12 children placed due to child safety needs; since Sept. 22nd Board Meeting.
▪ One child went home on trial home visit
▪ 2 youth entered foster care
o 11 children placed due to mental health or disability needs; since the Sept. 22nd Board meeting:
▪ One youth moved from CP placement to CMH placement; completed MH assessment
and moved to group home
o 1 child placed by Juvenile Probation; there have been no changes since the Sept. 22nd Board
meeting
•

Adults- Direct Care and Treatment are changing their billing practices; as a result, there is a delay in
receiving invoices and anticipate multiple months of costs coming in one bill.
o We also have a new admit to Moose Lake facility who is in the process of being committed.

2. Staffing:
• Child Protection Social Worker- we hired an internal candidate that is transitioning to that new role;
creating Family-Based Vacancy that is posted and closes on October 27, 2026.
3. MSSA Collaboration Award: I've attached a picture with the award recipients. Ivy House will be coming to the
November Board meeting to provide a short presentation.
4. Staff Training: A staff report is attached to this report regarding their attendance at a conference.

Page 61 of 112

October 2026
OHP Revenue and Expense
Human Services - Probation - Truancy
$200K
$190K
$180K
$170K
$160K
$150K
$140K
$130K
$120K
$110K
$100K
$90K
$80K
$70K
$60K
$50K
$40K
$30K
$20K
$10K
$0K

2026 Total Expense Budget:$1,100,000
2026 YTD: Expense Budget: $916,660
2026 YTD: Actual Expenses: $1,114,557
2026 Total Income Budget:$181,000
2026 YTD: Income Budget: $135,747
2026 YTD: Actual Income: $127,005

2026 Monthly
OHP Budgeted
Expense
$91,666

Nov Nov Dec Dec Jan Jan Feb
Exp Rev Exp Rev 2026 2026 Exp
Exp Rev

Feb
Rev

Mar Mar
Exp Rev

Apr
Exp

Human Services

Apr May May Jun
Rev Exp Rev Exp
Probation

Jun
Rev

Jul
Exp

Jul
Rev

Aug
Exp

Aug
Rev

Sep
Exp

Aug
Rev

Sep
Exp

2026 Monthly
OHP
Budgeted
Revenue
$15,083

Truancy

Page 62 of 112

________________________________

Page 63 of 112

BROWN COUNTY HUMAN SERVICES
CONFERENCE ATTENDANCE REPORT
This form is to be completed on each approved training/conference attended more than
one day in length.
Name of Conference/Training: 2026 Minnesota Family Support & Recovery Council
Name(s) of Attendees and Position: Shawn Wilfahrt, Child Support Officer
List three things you learned at the conference that was new information or helped you
enhance your knowledge in your current position.
➢ Learned signs of a Trauma response in clients that may have safety issues with
their respective custodial/non-custodial parents, and what can be done to lessen
those triggering factors.
➢ Received examples and instruction in processing Contempt Action referrals.
Helpful checklists, suggested hearing testimony questions, and procedural
pointers also provided.
➢ Income calculation, and criteria that must be met when doing so, was explained
in great detail. There was a large focus on self-employment income and the
various forms/schedules that should be used for calculations. We were also
instructed as to what non-traditional income could or could not be used when
calculating income.
Signature

Date 10/07/2026
Please return to Laura W – Thanks

CONFATTD.dot

Page 64 of 112

REQUEST FOR BOARD ACTION
Requested Board Date: 10/27/2026
Originating Department: Assessor
Requested Presentation Time (if applicable): 5 min Presenter: Sarah Lanier, County Assessor
Item: Nagell Appraisal Incorporated for Tax Court Appraisal Services (5 mins)
Board Action Requested:
Approve the Engagement Agreement with Nagell Appraisal Incorporated, Fee Appraiser — Ethan Waytas, for
the tax court filing for Americold Real Estate, L.P.
Background:
Brown County currently has a Tax Court Petition from Americold Real Estate, L.P. The filing is for taxes
payable in 2026. This involves 11 parcels.
001.890.002.00.020, 001.890.002.00.060, 190.014.001.01.020, 190.014.001.01.040, 190.014.001.01.050,
190.014.001.01.070, 190.014.001.01.080, 190.014.001.01.090, 190.014.001.01.095, 190.014.001.01.100,
190.014.001.01.110
Ethan Waytas is a well-respected commercial fee appraiser for Nagell Appraisal Incorporated. Many of our
surrounding counties have used his appraisal services for their tax court petitions. He also often works with Taft
Law. Brown County has not previously worked with Ethan, but Brown County has previously held contracts
with other fee appraisers for tax court purposes.
Supporting Documents:
1.
Brown County Appraisal Engagment Agreement - Tax Court - Americold
Administrator's Comments:
Sarah Lanier, Assessor
Sarah Lanier, Assessor
Charles Hanson, Attorney
Sam Hansen, Administration

Created/Initiated - 10/21/2026
Approved - 10/21/2026
Approved - 10/21/2026
Final Approval - 10/22/2026

Page 65 of 112

NAGELL APPRAISAL INCORPORATED
12805 Highway 55
Plymouth, MN 55441
Established in 1968

Phone:
Fax:

952-544-8966
952-544-8969

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Client: Brown County
Attn: Sarah Lanier, AMA, County Assessor
14 South State Street,
New Ulm, MN 56073
RE:

October 21, 2026

Americold (multiple PIDs, previously provided)
17113 County Road 29,
New Ulm, MN 56073

To Sarah Lanier:
Thank you for your interest in obtaining appraisal services regarding the property above. Per email and
discussion, a report with the following research and analysis is needed.
Report Use: To assist the client in determining if the assessed value is in line with the market, and if not, for
discussions with the petitioner regarding appeal of ad valorem taxes. The most likely use of the report is for
tax appeal in the Minnesota Tax Court. The intended users of the report, for tax appeal purposes only, are the
client and MN Tax Court.
Value Type: Fee simple interest market value as of 1/2/2025 (Pay 26), reflecting the as is condition of the
real estate only based on the property’s highest and best use. The report will conform with the Uniform
Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice.
Property Description: The property is comprised of multiple buildings across multiple sites that are used for
cold storage purposes. I have not completed prior services on this property (as an appraiser or non-appraiser)
in the past three years.
Contact for access: To be provided.
Scope of Report: (1) View the property and neighborhood. (2) Report the physical and/or economic factors
that could affect the property. (3) Appropriate research, collection, verification, analysis and viewing of
pertinent market data will be conducted. The applicable approaches to value will be applied. (4) Report
findings and conclusions.
Report Format: A Restricted Report (provided verbally) will be used for the Phase 1. An Appraisal Report
(narrative format) will be used for the Phase 2. It has a description of statements of the data, analysis, and
conclusions. Appropriate photos, maps and exhibits are included. An electronic (PDF) copy of the report will
be provided.
Fee: The fee for each phase is shown below:
Phase 1: $1,500 (includes inspection)
Phase 2: $6,500
The appraiser will not start a Phase unless authorized by the client. The Phase 2 fee is in addition to the
Phase 1. The fee is to be paid in a timely manner after completion of each Phase by the client. If the case is
settled prior to completion of a phase, only the hours worked will be billed.
After submitting the finalized report, any meetings, and/or appraisal revision, updates, upgrades, trial
preparation, discovery, testifying, etc. would be extra and billed at $200 per hour.
Due Date: The Phase 1 verbal value can be completed in a relatively timely manner after being requested.
The Phase 2 trial appraisal can be completed approximately 1 to 2 weeks prior to the exchange for review by
the client (exchange date is May 28, 2027). The due date assumes all the income and property information,
as well as other data requests, are provided in a timely manner.

Page 66 of 112

Engagement Letter – Continued
Information needed by the appraiser: Site survey, building sketch and size, past three years of profit and
loss statements, leases, etc. if available or applicable.
Our Company: has 12 employees and has been in business since 1968 and has sufficient knowledge,
experience, education, contacts and resources to competently complete this assignment. Neither the
employment to make the appraisal, nor the compensation for it, is contingent upon the appraised value of the
property. If you agree to the above terms, please sign below and return by email, fax, or mail. If you have any
additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,

Signature______________________________
Ethan Waytas, MAI
Certified General 40368613, MN
Date__________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________

www.nagellmn.com

Page 67 of 112

REQUEST FOR BOARD ACTION
Requested Board Date: 10/27/2026
Requested Presentation Time (if applicable):

Originating Department: Parks
Presenter: Robert Santaella, Planning and Zoning
Director

Item: Park Donation (5 mins)
Board Action Requested:
Accept Park Donation in Memory of Yvonne Blomquist in the amount of $220.
Background:
A donation has been made to the Brown County Park Department in memory of Yvonne Blomquist. Yvonne
served on the Brown County Park Commission for 15 years, from 1998 through 2013. She also contributed to
the restoration and relocation of the Omsrud–Torgrimson Log Cabin to Lake Hanska County Park.
Donations were graciously made by:
• Deb & Thomas Bradley- $20.00
• Randy & Billie Hanson- $60.00
• Sharon Miller- $10.00
• Rob & Cindy Mosenden $20.00
• Mark Strom $10.00
• Jim Penrod- $100.00

Supporting Documents:
None
Administrator's Comments:
Robert Santaella, Planning & Zoning
Robert Santaella, Planning & Zoning
Sam Hansen, Administration

Created/Initiated - 10/21/2026
Approved - 10/21/2026
Final Approval - 10/22/2026

Page 68 of 112

REQUEST FOR BOARD ACTION
Requested Board Date: 10/27/2026
Requested Presentation Time (if applicable): 20
Minutes
Item: Public Health 2026 Quarter 3 Update (20 mins)

Originating Department: Public Health
Presenter: Jaimee Brand, Public Health Director

Board Action Requested:
Accept and order file the Public Health 2026 Quarter 3 Update report.
Background:
Quater 3 Update will include:
Environmental Health
Disease Prevention and Control
PH Wins Survey Data
Cannabis Work plan
Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP)
PH Wins Survey data is attached.
Supporting Documents:
1.
Brown PH WINS Presentation 2026
Administrator's Comments:
Jaimee Brand, Public Health
Jaimee Brand, Public Health
Sam Hansen, Administration

Created/Initiated - 10/20/2026
Approved - 10/20/2026
Final Approval - 10/22/2026

Page 69 of 112

Brown County PH WINS Data 2026

Page 70 of 112

Whatt is
s PH
H
WINS?

Page 71 of 112

ABOUT PH WINS

What it is?
• PH WINS (the Public Health Workforce
Interests and Needs Survey) supports
the government public health
workforce in understanding their
strengths and gaps to inform future
investments in funding, training,
recruitment, and retention.

When & why it is conducted?
• The survey is a multi-year survey
conducted every few years by the de
Beaumont Foundation.
• PH WINS is the only nationally
representative source of data on the
state and local government public
health workforce

Page 72 of 112

CPRHI-led survey in 2026

Updated Data
• The Collaborative for Rural Public Health Innovation (CRPHI) administered the PH
WINS survey in in 2026 to partner agencies that had previously not taken the survey,
and to agencies that wished to gather an updated set of data.

Page 73 of 112

METHODS
Distribution
• CRPHI’s 2026 PH WINS Survey was
distributed via web survey to partner
agencies that opted in.

Topics
• PH WINS s urve y colle ct s individual
e mploye e pe rs pe ct ive s on e ngage me nt ,
s at is fact ion, int e nt ion t o le ave , workplace
we ll be ing, t raining, workplace
infras t ruct ure , and communit y e ngage me nt ,
as we ll as de mographics .

Page 74 of 112

Workforce
e
Characteristics

Page 75 of 112

Data Comparisons in this presentation
Brown County in 2026
CRPHI agencies that participated in PH WINS in 2024
Minnesota agencies in 2024
Small U.S. health departments in 2024

Page 76 of 112

Annual Salaries in Brown County

35%
of employees make less than
$55,000.00 per year in Brown
County.

When compared to other LHD’s
in Minnesota, Brown County has
more employees in this salary
range.

Page 77 of 112

Tenure in Position in Brown County

62%
of employees have been
working in their position at
Brown County for 0-5 years.
When compared to other
LHD’s, Brown County has
more employees who have
spent 6 or more years in their
position.

Page 78 of 112

Public Health staff age groups

42%

of Brown County employees are
between 36-54 years old.

This is lower compared to other
LHD’s, with Brown County having
more employees under 35 years
old than Statewide and National
averages.

Page 79 of 112

Public Health Supervisory Status

80%
of employees at Brown
County are not in a
supervisory role.

Page 80 of 112

Employee Type

90%
of employees at Brown
County are permanent
staff.

Page 81 of 112

Engagementt &
Satisfaction

Page 82 of 112

Job Satisfaction in Brown County

Benefits
Is the area in which employees
are least satisfied with their job.

Additionally, Brown County
employees are slightly less
satisfied with their pay than
other LHD’s and more satisfied
with their job.

Page 83 of 112

Organizational Satisfaction

100%
of employees are satisfied
with their work unit at
Brown County.
When compared to other
LHDs, Brown County
employees are more
satisfied with their work
unit, supervisor and
organization.

Page 84 of 112

Belonging at Public Health Agencies

95%
of employees feel a sense of
belonging within their agency.

Employees at Brown County have
a high sense of belonging in their
agency and work unit.

Page 85 of 112

Staying
g&
Leaving

Page 86 of 112

Leaving, Retiring, or Staying in Brown County

85%

of employees plan to stay at
their agency for the next
year.
15% of employees plan to
leave in one year, which is a
lower percentage compared
to other LHD’s.

Page 87 of 112

Employee
e Reasonss forr choosing
g to
o stayy att
Brown
n County

Top
p4
• Satisfaction
n with
h yourr
supervisor
• Job
b satisfaction
• Organizationall
climate/culture
• Job
b stability
Thiss data
a onlyy includess the
e
employeess who
o are
e planning
g
o stayy within
n the
e nextt year.
to

Page 88 of 112

Top Reasons for Staying Comparison

Brown
• Satisfaction with your supervisor
• Job satisfaction
• Organizational climate/culture
• Job Stability

Minnesota
• Flexible Work Schedule
• Benefits
• Support

SW and SC Minnesota
• Flexible Work Schedule
• Benefits
• Support

National Small LHD’s
• Job Stability
• Job Satisfaction
• Support

Page 89 of 112

Workplace
e
Well-- being

Page 90 of 112

Mental and Emotional Health in Brown
When compared to other
LHD’s, Brown County has a
higher percentage of
employees with “Very
Good” or “Excellent”
mental health.

Page 91 of 112

Burnout in Brown County

75%

of employees at Brown have one
or more symptoms of burnout.

This is a similar percentage when
compared to other LHD’s.

Page 92 of 112

Policies and Practices in Brown

95%

of employees feel comfortable
using their paid time off, which is
higher compared to the state and
region.

100%

of employees feel that their
agency implements policies and
practices that support mental
wellbeing, which is higher than
other LHD’s and Brown County in
the past.

Page 93 of 112

Workload
d in
n Brown
n County

100%

of employeess feell thatt theyy are
e
able
e to
o complete
e theirr workk within
n
normall working
g hours.

55%

off employeess sayy thatt theyy have
e
to
o take
e on
n responsibilitiess outside
e
off theirr job
b description.

Page 94 of 112

Training

Page 95 of 112

Skill -Building
g Interestss in
n Brown
n County

Top
p2
• Contentt knowledge
e specificc
to
o stafff programmaticc areas
• Collaborate
e with
h publicc
health
h personnell acrosss the
e
agencyy to
o improve
e the
e
health
h off the
e community
Employeess expresss interestt in
n
additionall training
g in
n these
e
skills.

Page 96 of 112

Support for Training

80%

of Brown County employees feel
that their agency provides them
with time and resources to
address their training needs.
This sentiment has declined over
time.

Page 97 of 112

Flexibility
y and
d
Benefits

Page 98 of 112

Current Remote Status

75%

of Brown County employees
work in person.
Fewer employees work remotely
compared to other LHD’s.

Page 99 of 112

Preferred
d Remote
e Status

65%

off Brown
n Countyy employeess
preferr to
o workk remotelyy att leastt
some.

Mostt employeess would
d ratherr
workk remotelyy more
e often
n than
n
theyy do
o now.

Page 100 of 112

Financial Benefits Importance

85%

of employees think it is
important to have professional
development funds as a benefit.

Along with other LHD’s,
employees at Brown County
believe it is more important to
have professional development
funds than student loan
forgiveness.

Page 101 of 112

Communityy
Engagement

Page 102 of 112

Infusing the Community into Work

100%

of employees think the
organization has leaders who
are committed to infusing
community members into
work.
Brown County has improved
since 2024 in prioritizing
under resourced communities
and using needs based
resource allocation.

Page 103 of 112

Engaging Community Members

89%

of employees think the
organization prioritizes
community member input. And
84% think the organization
regularly involves community
members in decision-making
Brown County involves
community members in decision
making more frequently when
compared to other LHD’s.

Page 104 of 112

Collaborating with External Organizations

100%

of employees think the
organization actively
collaborates with community based organizations.

This is more than other local
health departments across
the region, state and
nationally.

Page 105 of 112

Keyy
Takeaways

Page 106 of 112

Key takeaways : Strengths
• Most employees report satisfaction with their job (95%), work unit (100%), supervisor
(95%) and organization (90%)
• Most employees report a sense of belonging in their work unit (90%) and in the
agency (95%)
• Staff report that the agency implements policies and practices to support mental
well-being (100%)
• All staff report that county leadership is committed to prioritizing and infusing
community perspectives into the daily work of the agency

Page 107 of 112

Key takeaways : Challenges
• Fewer than half of employees report satisfaction with their benefits (40%) and 60%
report satisfaction with their pay
• Compared with 2024, fewer Brown County employees in 2026 reported that the
agency provides the time (80%) and resources (80%) to address their training needs
• 75% of employees reported at least one symptom of burnout

Page 108 of 112

Highway Department
1901 North Jefferson Street
New Ulm, MN 56073
Ph 507-233-5700

Highway Committee Meeting Minutes
August 4, 2026 – Following Board Meeting
Tony Berg, Scott Windschitl, Sam Hansen, Andrew Lang, Alex Davis and Nick Breu were present. (Greg
Peterson present for Item #1)
1. Memorial Highway Designation
Discussion of developing a policy and application for requesting a memorial highway
designation. Person(s) will be able request which CSAH or CR segment they are interested in to
honor any deceased Veteran, Firefighter, Law Enforcement Officer, Citizen, etc. with Honorable
Service. The Highway Dept. will receive applications, review/bring to the board, and install signs
that meet current standards at safe and proper locations. Policy and application to be drafted
and brought to board for approval. Greg Peterson to work with Captain Bianchi’s family,
interested in segments of CSAH 25 and CSAH 13.
2. Roadside Herbicide Application
Commissioners, Administrator and Highway departments have received an uptick in calls about
noxious weeds, specifically thistles. The current weed control practices for the highway
department include summer mowing and fall spraying. It was discussed what other counties are
doing – mostly summer mowing and fall spraying. Drone spray application was discussed as an
option as well. Due to the root system and life cycle of thistles specifically, it was mostly agreed
that summer mowing and fall spraying is the most economical and successful way of controlling
thistles. Highway department to continue these efforts and try to cover more ground and chase
the thistle patches more while mowing.
3. Crop Damage Policy
There was an incident earlier this year with a farmer stating that the County spraying stunted a
few rows of his crops. This prompted the discussion for the need of a County Policy to give
direction for resolving future situations. Soil testing with the at fault party paying the bill or
something similar was discussed to ensure County funds are being used appropriately and not
without fault. Policy to be drafted and brought to the board in the future.
4. Springfield Cold Storage Update
The City of Springfield approved the setback variances requested by the County which will allow
the new building to sit on the same footprint as the old building. The Highway department is
moving forward with plans and requesting bids. Once a contractor is awarded the bid, the
contract will give an option for partial work done this year of the building shell and concrete can
be poured next year. The Highway department staff will demo the old building and prep the
gravel base once a schedule is determined.
5. Highway Equipment Replacement Schedule
The Highway Department has been working on researching repair costs, warranty periods and
trade in costs to determine an effective replacement timeframe that results in better/newer
equipment and lowest cost per year. There is agreement that the replacement schedule can be
modified if that timeframe can be optimized. It would be easier to budget for and would reduce
County Engineer
Andrew Lang

Assistant Engineer
Alexandra Davis

Road Foreman
Nicholas Breu

Accountant
Kristina Enevoldsen

Page 109 of 112

Highway Department
1901 North Jefferson Street
New Ulm, MN 56073
Ph 507-233-5700

any surprises in the budget each year. Highway Department will continue gathering information
and analyzing current equipment and costs to find the most cost-effective replacement
schedule. The equipment budget for 2027 was briefly discussed and will be up for discussion
with the full board at next week’s budget meeting.
6. Miscellaneous

Respectfully Submitted,

Andrew Lang, P.E.
Brown County Engineer

County Engineer
Andrew Lang

Assistant Engineer
Alexandra Davis

Road Foreman
Nicholas Breu

Accountant
Kristina Enevoldsen

Page 110 of 112

Highway Department
1901 North Jefferson Street
New Ulm, MN 56073
Ph 507-233-5700

Highway Committee Meeting Minutes
September 28, 2026 – 1:00 PM
Tony Berg, Scott Windschitl, Sam Hansen, Andrew Lang, Alex Davis and Nick Breu were present.
1. 2027 Equipment Quotes
Discussion of the three equipment items for 2027. A tandem plow truck is 1st item with
substantial price increase at the beginning of the year and a long wait list for building the plow
equipment. Preordering would provide a 2028 model at 2026 pricing. Payment would not be
due until delivery of truck and build completion of plow equipment, most likely late 2027 or
early 2028. The 2nd item is replacing the Case loader. State bid contract pricing expires in
October, and most likely pricing will increase on new contract also. Purchasing in 2026 would
keep lower pricing and no payment until delivery after January 1st. The 3rd item is a bi-directional
plow moldboard for Unit 112. Currently it has a one-way plow on a turning frame. This causes
snow wind-rowing when discharging to the left. The newer trucks with the bi-directional
moldboard do not have this issue. It was proposed to purchase this plow in 2026 with Highway
Reserves and would reduce the 2027 budget levy request by $13,000. It was agreed upon to
bring all three items to the Board for consideration.
2. Seal Coat Chips
The Highway Department has been purchasing and hauling seal coat chips in the fall to prepare
for the upcoming season. Typically, suppliers want to deplete their stockpiles for the year and
have offered discounts. It is planned to sealcoat approximately 65 miles in 2027. The
maintenance materials budget for 2026 will be consumed and it was discussed whether or not
chips should be purchased and hauled this fall using more reserve funds or wait until spring of
2027. The uncertainty of late spring weather provides a greater benefit to hauling in the fall and
typically prices do increase for the next year. It was agreed to continue with the fall schedule
and the Highway Department will obtain aggregate quotes to bring to the Board.
3. 220th St LRIP Project
This project was visited during the Road and Park Tour. Stark and Home townships are actively
acquiring the right-of-way easements for the new alignment of 220th St. One property will be
divided by the new road and the landowners will convey property for the easement if the
County will purchase the separated acreage. This would amount to 4.077 acres and would be
the most convenient access into the County’s Alfred’s pit. Valuation and Highway’s ROW policy
were discussed along with future uses of the property if it were to be acquired. It was a concern
of a high cost and if the future use would supply enough value to the County. After discussion, it
was agreed to bring to the Board for consideration.

County Engineer
Andrew Lang

Assistant Engineer
Alexandra Davis

Road Foreman
Nicholas Breu

Accountant
Kristina Enevoldsen

Page 111 of 112

Highway Department
1901 North Jefferson Street
New Ulm, MN 56073
Ph 507-233-5700

4. Supplemental Guide Sign Policy
A local business contacted the Highway Department curious about purchasing or having a
directional sign installed with their business name. MnDOT has a supplemental guide sign policy
with application for various destinations and trailblazing requirements. The Highway
Department has reached out to the district MnDOT traffic staff if additional information can be
provided. After a short discussion, it was agreed to bring policy to Board after review of the
MnDOT program.
5. Miscellaneous
Commissioner Windschitl inquired about signs leading to and around the landfill. Additional
signs along CSAH 27 would be beneficial.

Respectfully Submitted,

Andrew Lang, P.E.
Brown County Engineer

County Engineer
Andrew Lang

Assistant Engineer
Alexandra Davis

Road Foreman
Nicholas Breu

Accountant
Kristina Enevoldsen

Page 112 of 112