Minnehaha County Commission Meeting - March 17th, 2026

The Minnehaha County Commission meeting on March 17, 2026, included several procurement and budget-related discussions. The commission considered refinancing the 2017 certificates of participation for the jail expansion project, potentially saving over half a million dollars in interest costs. They also approved a budget carryover and supplements totaling over $22 million, primarily for ongoing projects and unspent grant funds. Additionally, the commission authorized the purchase of a 2026 Toyota forklift for the highway department and approved an updated joint powers agreement for the reconstruction of County Highway 149. A resolution was passed to increase pay rates for qualified mental health professionals from $110 to $120 per hour, with the removal of an automatic escalator clause, to be revisited during the normal budget process. Presentations were made on emergency management, rural ambulance services, and sheriff’s office operations, highlighting ongoing public safety efforts and staffing updates. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session.