April 21, 2026 Rice County Board Work Session
observed by Orick Peterson
AGENDA
I. CALL TO ORDER at 8:31 am by Commissioner Peters and PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE by all.
II. DRAINAGE AUTHORITY: Jarett Spitzack, Drainage Ditch Manager, presented a proposal to
hire the H2Over Viewers company to execute a plan to redetermine the value of benefits
associated with the ditches in Rice County,which determines how much each landowner owes.
Underdahl asked about the cost, which is approximately $3.96/acre. Hoisington asked how
many acres; the rough estimate was about 300,000.
Hoisington liked the proposal and asked what landowner reaction has been: mostly positive.
Purfeerst said everyone should watch the video provided and learn why this process will make
assessment of ditch costs much fairer.
Peters agreed that this update is needed and also advised watching the video.
Spitzak will be back next week to seek approval of the proposal.
III. PARKS: Highway Engineer Dennis Luebbe presented an update on Mill Towns State Trail
Planning and Construction. Speakers included Scott Halden from the state DNR, Dave Benson
the Northfield City Engineer, Meg Otter from Friends of MTST and other citizens.
Commissioner Malecha spoke of the great commercial benefits of trails.
Luebbe spoke of options for future bike trails, especially between Faribault and Northfield.
Peters appreciated everyone’s contributions.
IV. COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS: Community Corrections Manager Angela Brewer presented
an update on Community Corrections department fees and collection activity.
Commissioner Peters asked about the cost of monitoring. Brewer answered that the department
simply passes on the $15 cost charged by the monitoring company.
Peters asked Brewer to explain some graphs and asked about efforts to collect fees. Do you
send monthly bills? Brewer described a very personal process of discussion and explanation
with each client.
Hoisington asked how much Rice County loses, out of the $10-12 million overall state
underfunding. It varies.
Peters read a letter of commendation to the department for complying with HR financial
reporting deadlines.
V. CHILD & FAMILY: Child and Family Services Manager Chris Sammon presented an update
on the department’s work to comply with new mandates to outplace fewer children from families
in disproportionately impacted communities. Described a labor-intensive and successful
process so far.
Peters thanked the department and underscored how important the work is, citing Senator
Klobuchar. Hoisington said a lot of counties are “crying wolf,” saying this is an impossible task, but Rice
County is managing it. Then Hoisington asked the department staff to introduce themselves,
which they did.
VI. ADJOURNMENT was at 10:26 am.
