Board of Commissioners - 12 May 2026

The Stearns County Board of Commissioners meeting on May 12, 2026, included several procurement and budget-related discussions. Key procurement topics included approval of a corrected final payment for the Cass 75 bridge replacement project, clarifying a $1,551 deduction discovered during state and federal audit processes. The board also discussed challenges with a carbon reduction program grant application for the Beaver Island Trail project due to design constraints involving a MnDOT-owned bridge, resulting in no application submission at this time. Additionally, the board approved transferring fiscal agent responsibilities for a watershed district grant to the Soil and Water Conservation District to streamline administration. The Parks Department presented and the board approved an updated master plan for Corey Park and Nature Preserve, which includes proposed expansions of mountain bike trails and other recreational amenities, though some commissioners expressed concerns about environmental impacts and public input. The meeting also covered potential funding support for broadband fiber expansion in Lake Henry Township, with discussions on township contributions and state grant opportunities. Other agenda items included tobacco ordinance updates, liquor license renewals, and public health collaborative grant agreements. Several motions related to procurement and budget allocations were passed, reflecting ongoing capital improvement and community service projects.