Sauk Rapids Herald - October 8, 2022

Sacred Heart Parish hosts annual pet blessing

BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

One cat. Thirteen dogs.

The number of animals attending the annual pet blessing at Sacred Heart Parish Oct. 2 in Sauk Rapids may have been down, but the spiritual rite remained of great importance to owners of the furry friends.

Pet owners from as far as South Haven attended the Blessing of Pets as part of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, which took place Oct. 4. The Rev. Tom Knoblach, pastor, along with the Rev. Joe Kresky and the Rev. Terry Jancik, both deacons, led the event, which featured a hymn, reading, intercessions, prayers and blessings. The brief meeting culminated with door prizes for the animals and their owners.

Pet blessing from front

(Above) A group of people sing “All Creatures of Our God and King” during the pet blessing at Sacred Heart Parish Oct. 2. St. Francis of Assisi is the patron saint of animals.

(Right) Richard Witteman and Cheryl Ley, of Sauk Rapids, stand near their pets, Soda (left) and Calvin, Oct. 2. Soda is a purebred husky while Calvin is a husky cross.

(Above) Kathy Gruba holds her calico cat, Buttercup, Oct. 2 at a pet blessing that took place at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sauk Rapids. Buttercup has lived with Gruba for eight years, and Gruba said her cat is great company.

(Right)

The Rev. Tom Knoblach directs attendees of a pet blessing Oct. 2 at Sacred Heart Parish. One cat and 13 dogs attended ,but parishioners said in the past both pets and farm animals, such as llamas, have joined.

know farming.

know banking.

PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER

Benton County from front

Premiums required to meet the county’s on-going insurance expenses are determined by a health insurance broker and a third-party administrator when the county board sets total health insurance premiums for each plan year.

“We did conduct a market search this year,” Hanson said, adding the county’s previous provider, Preferred One, was acquired by United Health care.

That change forced Benton County to start looking for a new third-party administrator.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota was the winner of the 2023 request for proposal, Hanson said, adding the county’s health

insurance costs are expected to be $3.88 million, which represents an 7% increase in current costs.

“We recommend a 12% increase to funding factors for 2023 to fund expected cost, add money to reserves and help mitigate future rate increases,” Hanson said.

“I understand that a 12% increase doesn’t sound very rosy.”

Benton County has a high frequency of high-cost employee claimants, Hanson said.

“Our net claims haven’t been as substantial as we’ve seen in our other groups,” Hanson said. “Insurance is paying out more, thus our xed costs are higher than others. A 7% increase is in line with

Jingle & Mingle from front

… “It really prompted us to make it special this year and for years to come.”

Sauk Rapids Downtown Jingle & Mingle resumes with its push for small business. Elness said, as in 2021, holiday shoppers will nd special promotions in stores or at sidewalk sales of participating retailers and businesses in Sauk Rapids. Artisans and small business owners without brick and mortars will again be welcomed by those with storefronts, setting up pop-up shops to promote and sell their goods.

“People loved it,” Elness said of the partnerships made by the business community. “They want to do it again this year, and we have a whole lineup of people who want to go into these businesses. Plus, I have various businesses who couldn’t set it up last year that are calling and asking vendors to come to their places.”

Elness said co-director Sertich is playing matchmaker and helping connect businesses and

small vendors. Sertich is working to place vendors in locations best suited to promote their items.

“It’s nice that she’s got that more organized, and people appreciate that,” Elness said.

In addition to showcasing food and merchandise, Jingle & Mingle has added a host of events that will create a winter wonderland of a Saturday two weeks before Christmas.

RJ Stables, of Sauk Rapids, will feature their Percheron draft horses, Otis and Kid, in horsedrawn wagon rides on city trails near the river. Carolers are planned to ll the streets with sweet singing. A Llama Wonderama, living Nativity and Very Merry Meat Rafe will provide additional activities, leading up to a lighted parade at 5 p.m. –complete with an appearance from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

“Downtown is the key word,” Elness said. … “We’re in this to bring focus to our downtown businesses and our new parks. It’s our way of bringing more focus to Sauk Rapids as a destination city. And

medical and prescription drug in ation.”

Commissioner Jared Gapinski said during board discussion that Benton County was anticipating a 2023 increase of 16%-18% if it had remained with Preferred One.

“This (12% increase) is still better than what we were looking at,” Gapinski said. Commissioner Ed Popp agreed.

“I just don’t feel we have a lot of choices,” Popp said.

Popp motioned to accept Marsh & McLennan’s recommendation, with Gapinski seconding.

Commissioners unanimously approved the premium rate recommendation on a 4-0 vote. Board chair Steve Heinen was not in attendance at the meeting.

“

Sunday, Oct. 9, 1 p.m. – Rice Police Building Dedication. A dedication of the new facility will take place promptly at 1 p.m. Rice Police Department, 80 NE Second Ave., Rice.

Sunday, Oct. 9, 1-4 p.m. – Rice Fire Department Open House. Rice Fire Hall, 205 E. Main St., Rice.

Monday, Oct. 10 – Indigenous Peoples’ Day and Columbus Day

Tuesday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m. to noon – Living Waters Lutheran Church Food Shelf Distribution. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids. If in need of emergency food assistance, call 320-255-1135.

Tuesday, Oct. 11, 10:15-10:45 a.m. or 11-11:30 a.m. – Fall Storytime. Stories, songs and fun geared toward ages 3-6, but all are welcome. Great River Regional Library, 1300 W. St. Germain St., St. Cloud. Check in at childrens help desk.

Tuesday, Oct. 11, 1-3:30 p.m. – Cribbage Tuesdays. Hosted by Helping Hands Outreach. Lions Building, 101 Fourth Ave. NW, Rice.

Tuesday, Oct. 11, 3:15-4:45 p.m. – Grant versus Lee: Who was the Greater General. A discussion on Robert E. Lee and Ulysses S. Grant. Hosted by the Central Minnesota Civil War Roundtable. Free and open to the public. Stearns County History Museum, 235 33rd Ave. S., St. Cloud.

Tuesday, Oct. 11, 4-7 p.m. – Construction Discovery Day Free three-hour informational session hosted by Career Solutions. Visit with employers and trade workers, tour electrical and plumbing labs, and participate in a hands-on carpentry project. St. Cloud Technical and Community College, 1542 Northway Drive, St. Cloud. Contact 320-761-3370 or tim.hickey@csjobs.org to register.

Tuesday, Oct. 11, 5:30-7:30 p.m. – 17th annual Conversation on Race. Featuring, “Why Continue Talking about Race” via Zoom. Coordinated by Create CommUNITY. Free but registration required at https://scsu.mn/3xUsUbl. For more information, email createcommunity2003@gmail.com.

Tuesday, Oct. 11, 6 p.m. – Sauk Rapids City Council Meeting. Sauk Rapids Government Center, 250 Summit Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

Tuesday, Oct. 11, 6 p.m. – Sauk Rapids-Rice School Board Sauk Rapids-Rice High School, 1835 Osauka Road NE, Sauk Rapids.

Tuesday, Oct. 11, 7 p.m. – Watab Township Supervisors Meeting. Watab Town Hall, 660 75th St. NW, Sauk Rapids.

it’s also really trying to promote our businesses. We’ve always been known as a bedroom community, and there is so much more here from businesses really trying to make a go of it; we’re so proud of that and really want to push that.”

Elness said the committee is open to ideas from those who want to participate to make this and future events great. She also encourages people to begin planning their parade units while the weather remains warm.

Information about Sauk Rapids Downtown Jingle & Mingle can be found on the city’s website at ci.sauk-rapids.mn.us

Tuesday, Oct. 11, 7 p.m. – NAR-ANON Meeting. For people and families affected by others’ addiction. Atonement Lutheran Church, 1144 29th Ave. N., St. Cloud. For more information, email meetyouthere112921@gmail.com.

Wednesday, Oct. 12, 7-8 p.m. – Tech Time. Trouble understanding your laptop, tablet, e-reader or other electronic device? Questions about downloading library materials? Register with library staff for your one-on-one 30-minute session. Great River Regional Library-St. Cloud, 1300 W. St. Germain St., St. Cloud.

Wednesday, Oct. 12, 4-8 p.m. – Sauk Rapids-Rice High School Parent-Teacher Conferences. SRRHS, 1835 Osauka Road NE, Sauk Rapids.

Thursday, Oct. 13, 3:30-7:30 p.m. – Sauk Rapids-Rice Elementary School Parent-Teacher Conferences. Mississippi Heights Elementary School, 1003 Fourth St. S., Sauk Rapids; Pleasantview Elementary School, 1009 Sixth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids; Rice Elementary School, 200 NE Third Ave., Rice. Thursday, Oct. 13, 10:30-11:30 a.m. – Preschoolers Play and Learn Workshop. Activities designed for ages 1-5. No registration but room limits may be enforced. Great River Regional Library-St. Cloud, 1300 W. St. Germain St., St. Cloud.

Thursday, Oct. 13, 7 p.m. – Rice Women of Today Meeting Lions Building at West Side Park, 101 Fourth Ave. NW, Rice.

Thursday, Oct. 13, 7 p.m. – Sauk Rapids Legion Post 254 Monthly Meeting. Legion meets the second Thursday of each month at the Sauk Rapids VFW Post 6992, 901 N. Benton Drive, Sauk Rapids.

Friday, Oct. 14, 6-8 p.m. – Kids Carnival Fall Festival. Hosted by the Rice Women of Today. Old Village Hall, 20 E. Main St., Rice.

Saturday, Oct. 15, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Sauk Rapids Fire Department Open House. Educational information and activities. Children receive a free pumpkin while supplies last. SRFD, 408 N. Benton Drive, Sauk Rapids.

Saturday, Oct. 15, 2-3 p.m. – Music in the Library. An eclectic mix of music performed by Julie Johnson on flute and Jacqueline Ultan on cello. Great River Regional Library, 1300 W. St. Germain St., St. Cloud.

Sunday, Oct. 16, noon to 5 p.m. – Eigth annual Bouja Fest Hosted by the Sauk Rapids Tinville Lions. Bouja for sale while supplies last. Silent auction, raffles and more. Rollie’s Rednecks and Longnecks, 940 35th Ave. NE, Sauk Rapids.

“They want to do it again this year, and we have a whole lineup of people who want to go into these businesses. Plus, I have various businesses who couldn’t set it up last year that are calling and asking vendors to come to their places.”

- Marla Elness, co-director

under ‘city celebrations.’

Recognizing October as Minnesota Manufacturing Month

The Minnesota Statewide Tour of Manufacturing takes place every year during the month of October and is an opportunity for schools, families and the public to discover the innovative and high-technology world of modern manufacturing.

It’s an excellent time for Benton County manufacturers to promote innovations, goodwill and workforce development by showing the community exactly what they do. Manufacturers can take the opportunity to dispel outdated myths about manufacturing and connect with students to encourage employment interest.

BENTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

BY AMANDA OTHOUDT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Manufacturing’s importance in Benton County and throughout Minnesota is due to the sector’s stability and growth. In fact, manufacturing accounts for 13.55% of the total output in the state, employing 11.36% of the workforce with 310,000 employees in 2020 (average annual compensation of $80,899.60 in 2019). Total output from manufacturing was $52.01 billion in 2019, according to the National Association of Manufacturers. The export of manufacturing goods from Minnesota totaled $18.84 billion in 2020, creating jobs and economic opportunities for the state.

Benton County manufacturers should host a Manufacturing Month event Manufacturing is Benton County’s second largest industry, employing over 17,400 workers. By opening your doors to the public, you can change the perception of manufacturing jobs and start building the next generation of workers. Data from 2018 shows the impact Manufacturing Month events have in Minnesota:

– 28,080 estimated individuals attended a tour.

– 10,521 K-12 students attended a tour.

– 209 manufacturers hosted a tour.

Tour attendees developed interest and awareness of manufacturing careers:

– 76% were interested in manufacturing careers.

– 88% were more aware of manufacturing careers.

– 85% were more interested in science, technology, engineering and math.

When a company organizes a Manufacturing Week event, they are taking a novel approach to workforce development. As manufacturers seek to ll high-skill, high-tech and high-paying jobs over the next decade, Manufacturing Week empowers employers to address the challenges of nding quali ed workers while helping their communities and future generations thrive.

There are comprehensive resources available from the Minnesota State Advance Manufacturing Center of Excellence to help guide businesses through every step of planning a Manufacturing Month event. Businesses can even register the tour or open house at Minnesota Statewide Tour of Manufacturing so it can be easily found.

Materials include:

– Host tool kit: Step-by-step guide for the organization of an event.

– Manufacturer tour guide: Outline of best practices and tips for a successful tour.

– Manufacturer virtual tour guide: Outline of information and tips for a virtual tour.

– Community tour guide: Step-by-step outline to create a tour for the public.

– Teacher Guide: 80-page curriculum resource for teachers of grades 6-12 to help their students get the most out of a tour or open house.

– Templates: For press releases, radio ads and parent letters.

Benton Economic Partnership can help businesses register tours. Tours occur throughout the month of October.

Check out the manufacturing tours that have happened or are happening in central Minnesota below: In-person tours:

– DeZURIK, of Sartell, hosted Oct. 5.

– AVA, of Albertville, hosted Oct. 6.

– Geringhoff, of St. Cloud, hosted Oct. 6.

– Nova Flex, of St. Cloud, hosted Oct. 6.

– Hansen & Company Woodworks, of St. Joseph, hosted Oct. 6.

– Coldspring, of Cold Spring, hosted Oct. 6.

– CWMF, of Waite Park, hosted Oct. 6.

– Metal-Craft, of Elk River, hosted Oct. 6.

– Rosenbauer American, of Wyoming, hosted Oct. 6.

–Starrett Tru-Stone, of Waite Park, hosted Oct. 6.

– Nahan Printing, of St. Cloud, hosted Oct. 7.

– Seitz Stainless, of Avon, hosts from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 8.

– Two Rivers Enterprises, of Holdingford, hosts 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 8.

– DCI, of Waite Park, hosts 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 8.

– Park Industries, of Waite Park, hosts noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14.

– Whirltronics, of Buffalo, hosts 8-10 a.m. Oct. 21.

– Ridgewater College, of Hutchinson, hosts 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 27.

– Ridgewater College, of Willmar, hosts 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 28.

Virtual tours:

– Brenny Transportation, of St. Joseph.

– Central McGowan, of St. Cloud.

– Engel Metallurgical, of Sauk Rapids.

– Ichor, of St. Cloud.

– Rotochopper, of St. Martin.

– Standard Iron and Wire Works, of Monticello.

– Thermo-Tech, of Sauk Rapids.

– Wells Concrete, of Albany.

– West Central Steel, of Willmar.

TIMOTHY

BENTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES

SEPTEMBER 26, 2022

The Benton County Board of Commissioners met in special session on September 26, 2022, in the Benton County Board Room in Foley, MN. Call to order by Chair Steve Heinen was at 9:00 AM followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the ag. A roll call showed Commissioners Beth Schlangen, Scott Johnson, Steve Heinen, Jared Gapinski and Ed Popp present.

There was no one present from the public to speak under Open Forum.

Popp requested to pull Consent Agenda item #5 for further discussion. Motion by Johnson and seconded by Gapinski to approve Consent Agenda items 1 – 4 and 6: 1) approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of September 6, 2022 and authorize the Chair to sign; 2) approve the Committee of the Whole Meeting Minutes of September 7, 2022 and authorize the Chair to sign; 3) approve the addendum to the agreement with the University of Minnesota Extension for Extension Contracted Positions and authorize the Chair to sign; 4) approve an application for a 1 – 4 Day Temporary On-Sale Liquor License to St. Cloud HOG (Harley Owned Group); 6) accept and le the Veteran Services Of cer’s Quarterly Report. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Popp had requested clari cation on Consent Agenda item #5 regarding the amendment to County Jail Food Service Contract with Summit Food Service, LLC. Sheriff Troy Heck stated that the proposed amendment to this food service contract will provide for pricing on our food service from December 1st, 2022 through November 30, 2023. In the 2023 budget request, the line item for inmate food and beverages was increased by 4.6%. Heck stated we have a year-to-year contract with Summit and that this increase is not “over and above” any amount in the original agreement. Motion by Popp and seconded by Johnson to approve Consent Agenda item #5 to approve the amendment to County Jail Food Service Contract with Summit Food Service, LLC and authorize the Chair to sign. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Community Health Administrator Jaclyn Lit n, along with Community Health Specialist Mariah Klein requested to conduct a Public Hearing regarding the proposed revisions to the Benton County Retail Tobacco Licensing Ordinance. The changes would affect retailers licensed by the County only. It would not apply to Foley, Sauk Rapids, St. Cloud or Sartell. These Cities issue their own tobacco licenses under City ordinances. The proposed changes include:

• updated de nitions to meet standard state and federal de nitions (section 300, subds. 1-23)

• capping the number of licenses issued to tobacco shops at zero (section 400, subd. 14)

• seizing of false identi cation (ID) (section 700, subd. 2B)

• restricting the sale of avored tobacco products, including mint/menthol products (section 700,subd. 3)

• increased administrative penalties for violation (section 1200, subd. 1)

Lit n stated that Minnesota is experiencing a youth tobacco use epidemic, and requested that after today’s public hearing, the County Board approve the Tobacco Ordinance with the County Board’s recommendations. Lit n stated that through the Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP) grant, Benton County Public Health staff are working in collaboration with local partners, including schools, law enforcement, health care, various county departments, and youth on commercial tobacco prevention and control initiatives; one of them being to strengthen local commercial tobacco policies. Lit n stated that they had received 101 youth support post cards and 50 adult support post cards.

The public hearing opened at 9:12 AM for the Tobacco Ordinance. Present to speak and to share support of the ordinance were Brad Bergstrom, Superintendent of Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools; Jennifer Kenning, Student Assistance Coordinator at Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools; Paul Neubauer, Superintendent of Foley Public Schools; Dr. Kim Tjaden, Community Health Medical Director at CentraCare; Dani Protivinsky, Director of CentraCare Community Wellness; Sheila Wheeler, parent and Teacher at Foley Public Schools; Joe Mellgren, parent and Dean of Students at Foley Public Schools; Marley Wheeler, Student/Senior at Foley High School; and Brittany Mellgren, Student/Senior at Foley High School. The public hearing closed at 9:45 AM.

When asked about any emails, letters or other communications to be read into the record, Klein referenced the 25 letters of support that were included in today’s Special Meeting Board Packet, along with 101 youth post cards and 50 adult post cards showing support of passing the Tobacco Ordinance. Lit n stated they had not received any comments or concerns from State agencies, cities or townships. No of cial action was required by an affected Township. Gapinski asked if there was any opposition regarding the proposed changes to the tobacco ordinance and Klein stated that she had only received questions about the ordinance, and not any opposition. Motion by Johnson to adopt the proposed revisions to the Benton County Retail Tobacco License Ordinance. Seconded by Gapinski. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Land Services Director Roxanne Achman requested to conduct a public hearing to consider Ordinance #485 amending Benton County Development Code Ordinance #477. A recent inquiry from the public caused staff to further investigate the structure setbacks within the

Shoreland District. Based on that research, staff is recommending amending the structure setbacks within the Shoreland District. Achman stated that as required by statute, the DNR has reviewed the proposed changes and has granted conditional approval subject to the County Board’s approval and proper public notice. The public hearing for Ordinance #485 opened at 9:55 AM. No one was present in-person or virtually for the public hearing. The public hearing closed at 9:56 AM. Achman stated there were no emails, letters or other communications to be read into the record. The department has not received any comments or concerns from any State agencies, cities or townships. No of cial action was required by an affected Township. Motion by Johnson and seconded by Gapinski to approve Ordinance #485 amending Benton County Development Code Ordinance #477. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Achman requested to conduct a public hearing on Minor nal plat entitled “Hops Legacy” submitted by Allen J. Bauerly. Achman stated Mr. Bauerly is requesting to nal plat 4 lots within Gilmanton Township off CSAH 13/Little Rock Rd NE and 95th St NE. The plat splits a parcel into four lots.

The plat was reviewed and approved by Gilmanton Township on September 6, 2022. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on the preliminary plat on September 8, 2022, at which time it was approved. Mr. Allen J. Bauerly of 2100 65th Avenue NE Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 was present to answer any questions the County Board may have regarding this request. The public hearing on Minor nal plat entitled “Hops Legacy” opened at 9:58 AM. No one was present in-person or virtually to speak at the hearing. The public hearing closed at 9:59 AM. Achman stated there were no emails, letters or other communications to be read into the record. The Department has not received any comments or concerns from any State agencies, cities or townships. Achman reiterated that Gilmanton township, and the Planning Commission reviewed this request and are both in support. Johnson added that the Planning Commission was in favor of “Hops Legacy”. Motion by Johnson and seconded by Popp to approve the Minor nal plat entitled “Hops Legacy” submitted by Allen J. Bauerly. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Achman requested approval of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Mississippi St. Cloud Watershed water management planning process. Achman stated in July 2022, the Board adopted a version of this agreement that included the Clearwater River Watershed District. While that agreement was valid for all of the parties that executed it, BWSR rejected it. The current version removes all references to the Clearwater River Watershed District. There were no more material changes. Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Heinen to approve the MOU for the Mississippi St. Cloud Watershed water management planning process and to appoint Johnson to the Mississippi St. Cloud Watershed Committee. Motion carried unanimously.

The Special County Board meeting was recessed at 10:04 AM to conduct a Human Services Board Meeting.

The Special Board meeting reconvened at 10:04 AM.

Next on the Agenda was the 2021 Audit Exit Meeting from Clifton Larson Allen LLP. Motion by Popp and seconded by Johnson to table this item until the October 4, 2022 Regular Board Meeting. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, County Administrator Montgomery Headley requested the County Board adopt a proposed 2023 property tax levy and County budget. Headley requested the County Board consider a Resolution setting the proposed 2023 levy at $22,585,122. Headley noted the major factors in the proposed 2023 budget and levy and asked that these factors be included in the record as follows:

1. The proposed 2023 levy increases 5.47%, or $1,172,178 from 2023, to a total property tax levy of $22,585,122 (“gross” percentage increase partially offset by expected 1.14% growth from new construction)

2. With this proposed change for 2023, the 10-year average levy change for Benton County is a 3.6% increase

3. The proposed levy increase falls below the 19.5% expected growth in the County’s payable 2023 net tax capacity, which translates into a reduced County tax rate in 2023; the estimated 2023 County tax rate will fall from 54.7% to 28.28% of tax capacity (down from a peak of 77.74% in 2013)

4. Based on median house value of $235,000 and expected 17% market value growth in 2023, a homeowner’s County property taxes would increase $70 in 2023, or $5.83 per month

5. The proposed 2023 operating budget totals $62,362,459, an increase of $13,085,508, or a 26.6% increase from 2022; $5.4 million of the increase is due to a larger 2023 road construction program; also, transfers increase $5.4 million from the local road fund to support 2023 road projects

6. The proposed levy increase is comprised of the following major elements: a. Employee compensation and bene ts $960,545 b. End use of one-time ARPA funds for revenue losses 671,903 c. Expected increases in Human Services federal/state revenue (433,215) d. Reduced debt service levy (2017A bonds repaid) (364,454) e. Fully fund major equipment replacement plan in Highway 155,000 f. Increased fuel costs 130,000 g. All other operating and revenue

account adjustments (net) 52,399

Total Levy Change for 2023 $1,172,178

7. The proposed budget included the following “Policy Issues” from County Board action:

a. A Staff Appraiser position to allow the County to perform more property valuation work internally (and reduce its reliance on contracted local assessors)

b. Increasing the Highway crack ller budget by $15,000 so that the Highway Department can do more road maintenance

c. Funds a “peer support” team in the Sheriff’s Of ce to provide law enforcement personnel with mental health services

8. Employee compensation and bene ts comprise the largest single item in the 2023 levy increase; the proposed 2023 budget funds general wage adjustments and step increases. Also, the proposed 2023 budget includes a 15% increase in employee health insurance premiums

9. The 2022 budget used $671,903 in American Rescue Plan Act funds (COVID relief) to replace revenue losses related to the COVID pandemic; for Benton County, those losses occurred primarily in jail boarding and transportation funding; levy funds must now cover these one-time funds

10. The County’s General Revenue fund balance at the end of 2021 stood at 6.8 months of expenditure coverage, versus a goal standard of 5 months expenditure coverage; the Human Services fund balance equaled 6.1 months of expenditure coverage at December 2021; with good reserve levels, the proposed 2023 budget uses $700,000 from these tow funds to help bring the levy increase down.

Motion by Popp and seconded by Gapinski to approve a Resolution setting the proposed 2023 levy at $22,585,122. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, in addition to setting the proposed 2023 levy, Headley requested a motion from the County Board to approve a Resolution establishing the proposed 2023 Benton County budget as presented. Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Heinen to approve a Resolution establishing the 2023 Benton County budget as presented. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Headley requested the County Board to announce the date and time of the Truth in Taxation Public Meeting. Motion by Popp and seconded by Heinen to conduct a Truth in Taxation Public Meeting on Thursday, December 8, 2022 at 6:00 PM in the County Boardroom. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Headley requested the County Board to consider a grant agreement with the City of Sauk Rapids to provide American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to support residential development. The agreement would provide up to $350,000 from the County’s allocation of American Rescue Plan Act funds to the City of Sauk Rapids to help support the installation of water and sewer infrastructure for new residential lots in the City. The County and City would each provide $7,500 per lot to a developer for the installation of water and sewer infrastructure to new residential lots. With this subsidy, the developer agrees to sell these residential lots for not more than $49,900. Motion by Heinen and seconded by Gapinski to approve the grant agreement with the City of Sauk Rapids to provide ARPA funds to support residential development. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Headley stated that the City of Sauk Rapids has requested reimbursement for its legal fees to review and revise the ARPA agreement with the County (for residential water/sewer subsidies). The amount being requested by law rm Rinke Noonan is $7,024. Johnson suggested to wait until we get through this project because we will be in a better position at the end of our ARPA allocation period to address all cities who have approached Benton County with similar requests. Johnson motioned to table the discussion of the City of Sauk Rapids’ request for reimbursement of its legal fees to review and revise the ARPA agreement with the County inde nitely. Seconded by Popp. Motion carried unanimously.

Last, Headley stated that during its 2022 “goal-setting” meeting, the County Board agreed to schedule a joint meeting with the Benton Economic Partnership (BEP) Executive Board. The BEP Executive Director suggests this meeting occur after the BEP Board’s October 27, 2022 meeting. Headley requested topics of discussion from the County Board for the joint meeting. There was a consensus by the County Board that the topics of discussion would be: 1) City of Sauk Rapids Agreement; 2) Broadband update; 3) the D.C. Fly-In event and the economic impact on the 29 Corridor; 4) business recruitment; 5) loan program.

Next, Board members reported on recent meetings they attended on behalf of Benton County.

Under Comments by Commissioners, Heinen had received phone calls regarding signs blocking views on the road. The signs were not all political signs, some were signs with advertisements on them. Then, Gapinski stated he spoke with Commissioner Clark from Stearns County and was able to take the last spot on the NACo Broadband Committee.

There were no future Committee of the Whole Meetings to announce into the record.

The Regular Board Meeting was adjourned at 10:57 AM.

Steven J. Heinen, Chair Benton County Board of Commissioners ATTEST: Montgomery Headley Benton County Administrator

Haddy,

Heneke,

Strand, Lisha

Sauk Rap s

Mrozek,

Kaitlyn Burski,

Kugler,

BY R. TAMM PHOTOGRAPHY

PAUL

Football Contest

Rapids

BALTIMORE VS. NY GIANTS

SEASON!

A group of community leaders and students ceremonially break ground Oct. 5 on what is to become an advanced manufacturing lab at St. Cloud Technical and Community College in St. Cloud. The additional 8,000 square feet of space will expand the program capacity by 24 students.

SCTCC breaks ground on advanced manufacturing lab

Federal funds aid in new technology

BY NATASHA BARBER | STAFF WRITER

No shovels.

hard hats.

At least that is what Sen. Tina Smith thought

she visited

for a groundbreaking Oct. 5.

Little did Smith know, a removed piece of pavement outside a classroom wing

dents and even a little red robot to sink their golden spades into the soil below.

SCTCC celebrated the future of an advanced manufacturing training lab Wednesday.

Minnesota’s designated Manufacturing Month.

Manufacturing sequences at SCTCC include pro ciencies such as industrial welding, robotics and automation, advanced machining and computer-aided mechanical design. The lab will bene t not only students but also industry partners and their employees .

area for a group

provide

Over 100 people gathered in a space inside the Northway Building on campus to hear about how a $2.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration and additional SCTCC funds will bene t the future of the manufacturing industry.

It was tting event on the rst Wednesday of

“We’re going to have a lot of the latest and greatest equipment,” said Aaron Barker, interim dean of skilled trades and industry at SCTCC. … “We’ll be able to create custom courses for industry to be able to send over their employees to get further trained.”

Barker said they will also rely on the industry to help aid students in their learning.

“We’ll be inviting industry (leaders) to come into the classroom with our students and using the space together,” Barker said. “One example is creating a problem-solving scenario where industry partners come in, present a problem they are having and then work with our students to attempt to solve that problem.”

The advanced manufacturing training lab will expand the department by 8,000 square feet and increase the capacity of the program from 24 to 48 students. The project will use the federal funds for equipment such as a water jet cutter, a metal 3D printer, robots with vision and training devices.

The college will promote its manufacturing program within the student body by demolishing a brick wall that abuts a busy hallway and replacing it with full length glass windows, allowing passersby to see and inquire about the happenings within.

SCTCC Interim President Lori Kloos said the project is the result of conversations following the closing of the Electrolux manufacturing plant in 2018.

Smith attended the event alongside speakers Kloos, St. Cloud Mayor Dave Kleis, alumna Katie Frank and Minnesota State Chancellor Davinder Malhotra.

“This kind of training is a perfect t for this community because there is, as Mayor (Dave) Kleis said, strong collaboration between the business community, educational community and the labor community to make sure that it happens,” Smith said. “Great projects like this are not going to work without that collaboration of the private sector side and that exists here.”

Smith commended the St. Cloud area for identifying the need for students to be educated and work in their own communities. Most of the college’s students have graduated or remain enrolled in high schools from surrounding Benton, Meeker, Stearns, Sherburne and Wright counties.

“I give great credit to the college and the business community for realizing that talent cannot be wasted,” she said.

PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Foley Fire Department members are Gary Bautch (front, from left), Andy Shaw, Greg Poganski, Travis Sweno, Logan Lunde and Jason Studanski; (middle, from left) Tyler Palm, Travis Janson, Adam Foss, Bryan Moshier, Mike McMillin, Kraig Rudolph, Jerry Linn and Jay Howard; (back, from left) lieutenant Todd Foreman, lieutenant Chris Harren, fire chief Mark Pappenfus and assistant chief Larry Nadeau, captain Rick Herbrand. Not pictured are captain Josh Beutz and Jerad Fleck.

T

Sound the Alarm

“This is the second time that Kenny has done this for us, and he’s done a really fine job,” Hofman said.

Working alongside the Foley Fire Department was essential to help make homes safer beyond the Sept. 17 event, said Nicole Bathgate, American Red Cross disaster program manager for central Minnesota.

The cooperative effort does not rest solely with the Red Cross and the Foley Fire Department; it is a partnership with families and individuals, Bathgate said.

“Families ensure they have working smoke detectors in their homes, and they learn how to maintain them,” she said. “That, coupled with home fire prevention safety education, helps to save lives, reduce injuries and build resilient communities.”

According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology, if every home in the United States had a working smoke alarm, deaths by home fires would drop by 36%.

Do not assume smoke detectors are in working condition. Test them each month and know the last time someone replaced the batteries.

Fire prevention experts urge changing smoke detector batteries every year. New smoke alarms should be installed every 10 years.

“The battery-operated smoke alarms that we helped install with the Foley Fire Department have batteries that last 10 years,” Hofman said.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, missing or disconnected smoke alarm batteries cause 50%

Fires are responsible for more than 3,000 deaths annually in the United States. According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly two-thirds of home fire deaths occur in homes without smoke alarms or working smoke alarms, the latter primarily due to missing or dead batteries.

of smoke alarm failures. While dead batteries are the cause of about 24% of smoke alarm failures, it is almost twice as likely the battery is completely disconnected or there is no battery installed in the first place.

NFPA fire safety statistics indicate that almost 75% of smoke alarm failures in the home come down to an easily preventable problem with the battery.

Nadeau said the department remains passionate about the effort even though this year’s

Sound the Alarm numbers were not as big as they were in 2018.

“The value of what we did is still there,” Nadeau said. “Anytime you can engage someone regarding fire safety it’s a good day. Many homes we visited did not have working smoke alarms. When we do things like this, it’s an opportunity to change the narrative. We are being proactive instead of reactive.”

Some people run from problems.

run to them.

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GRAPHIC COURTESY OF KIDDE FIRE SAFETY MEDIA RESOURCES

PHOTO COURTESY OF NICOLE BATHGATE AMERICAN RED CROSS-CENTRAL MINNESOTA

Resident John Vizenor completes Sound the Alarm fire preparedness campaign paperwork while Red Cross volunteers Carol Otremba and Ricky Thiyaga Rajan stand ready to answer questions. The Foley Fire Department also participated in the Sept. 17 visit, which included smoke detector installation.

Rapids Fire Department are Scott Vadnais (front, from left), Keagan Gunderson, Jeff Jahnke, Brent Bukowski, Steve Ellson, Bryce Sequin, Jared Gapinski, Brad Peterson, Cory Zimpel and Dale Abraham; (middle, from left) Kevin Roesner, Jason Adamski, Montana Hanson, Doug Dingmann, Alan Olson, Brian Otremba, Tyler Gedicke, Kaden Cahill, Dalton Landwehr, Deelia Guite, Mike Griffin, Jared Powell, Greg Bomstad, Jason Fleming, Dale Ward, Spencer Buerkle, Tim “Fritz” Schueller, Don Benoit, Dave Benoit, Ron Schlichting, Gary Johnson, Howie Trushenski, Dick Turch, Charlie Sobieck, George Vadies, Frank Riehm, Matt Heinen Sr. and Micheal Golembeski; (back, from left) Andy Hovanes, Neil Bueckers, Dennis “Jock” Schlichting and Kirk Abraham.