DEPARTMENT: Finance
FILE TYPE: Regular Action
TITLE
title
Approval Of Revisions To Policy 2255 Credit Card And Electronic Payment Acceptance
end
RESOLUTION
body
WHEREAS, the Finance Department reviews and recommends revisions to policies and procedures to maintain and enhance the effective and responsive provisions of financial management functions in the County; and
WHEREAS, staff recommend revisions to Policy No. 2255 Credit Card and Electronic Payment Acceptance, utilizing a surcharge to pass credit card convenience fees to consumers, updating policy definitions, adding a responsibility and compliance section and references to electronic payment acceptance guidance.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of Commissioners hereby approves the revised Policy No. 2255, Credit Card and Electronic Payment Acceptance, as presented to the General Government and Policy Committee of the Whole on September 1, 2026, effective January 1, 2027.
end
BACKGROUND
Policy No. 2255 establishes requirements and guidelines for accepting electronic payments, including credit cards, debit cards, or other electronic means of paying for County obligations and ensures procedures comply with applicable state and federal laws and regulations.
The County is currently absorbing convenience fees for credit card transactions made by consumers who elect to use a credit card in lieu of payment by cash, check, or similar means when paying for County services. The cost absorbed by the County has increased by 64% since 2020.
Minn. Stat. § 325G.051, Surcharge on Credit Cards, allows for the County to place a surcharge, up to 5% of the purchase price, on transactions with customers who choose to use a credit card in lieu of cash or check to cover the County’s cost of the transaction fee.
The revised policy (attachment), recommends that, except when provided otherwise by law, the County will utilize a surcharge to pass a convenience fee to the consumer to offset Cou...
Click here for full text