Dakota County

Board of Commissioners

Minutes

Tuesday, September 23, 2025

1. Call to Order and Roll Call

9:00 AM

Boardroom, Administration Center,

Hastings, MN

Commissioner Mike Slavik

Present:

Commissioner Joe Atkins

Commissioner Laurie Halverson

Commissioner William Droste

Commissioner Liz Workman

Commissioner Mary Liz Holberg

Commissioner Mary Hamann-Roland

Also in attendance were Heidi Welsch, County Manager; Kathryn M. Keena, County Attorney;

Tom Donely, First Assistant County Attorney; and Jeni Reynolds, Sr. Administrative

Coordinator to the Board.

Pledge of Allegiance

The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m. by Chair Slavik who welcomed everyone and

opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Audience

Chair Slavik noted that all public comments can be sent to CountyAdmin@co.dakota.mn.us

DARTS President Mike Lavin introduced himself to the Board and provided a brief update.

Agenda

Resolution No: 25-430

4.1

Approval of Agenda (Additions/Corrections/Deletions)

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Ayes: 7

Second: Liz Workman

Public Hearing

Resolution No: 25-431

5.1

Public Hearing To Receive Comments And Approval Of The Dakota County

Program Year 2024 Consolidated Annual Performance And Evaluation Report

Motion: William Droste

Second: Joe Atkins

The time being 9:11 a.m. and pursuant to public notice, a public hearing was

conducted to receive comments and approval of the Dakota County Program

Year 2024 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation report. Assistant

Director of Community & Economic Development Emily Anderson briefed this

item and the public hearing was opened. No one came forward with comments

and no comments were received via email. The Public Hearing was closed at

9:12 a.m.

WHEREAS, the Dakota County Community Development Agency (CDA)

administers the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME

Investment Partnerships (HOME), and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG)

Programs on behalf of Dakota County; and

WHEREAS, the CDBG, HOME, and ESG Programs are guided by federal

regulations, the Five-Year Consolidated Plan that outlines the County’s

strategies and objectives, and the Annual Action Plan that serves as the annual

planning document allocating CDBG, HOME, and ESG funds to local

governments and housing providers via approved activities; and

WHEREAS, the federal regulations require a year-end report called the

Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) to be

submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development no later

than 90 days after the end of the program year; and

WHEREAS, the CAPER is an evaluation of the prior program year, detailing

financial expenditures, persons assisted, and activity outcomes; and

WHEREAS, the CAPER also details progress of the CDA, local governments,

and housing providers in implementing the housing and community development

strategies, projects, and activities identified in the Annual Action Plan; and

WHEREAS, public notice of the public comment period and public hearing for

the Dakota County Program Year 2024 CAPER was placed in the Minnesota

Star Tribune on September 5, 2025, and on the CDA and Dakota County

websites, along with the draft CAPER document; and

WHEREAS, no public comments were received on the CAPER document.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby conducts a public hearing on September 23, 2025, at

9:00 a.m., in the Boardroom, Administration Center, 1590 Highway 55, Hastings,

Minnesota to receive comments on the Dakota County Program Year 2024

Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report to the U.S.

Department of Housing and Urban Development; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of Commissioners

hereby approves the submission of the Dakota County Program Year 2024

Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation report to the U.S. Department

of Housing and Urban Development no later than September 28, 2025.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-432

5.2

Public Hearing To Receive Comments On And Approval Of Variance To Dakota

County Ordinance No. 113, Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems For

Property Lines And Structures At 29715 Gerlach Way Cannon Falls, MN 55009

Motion: William Droste

Second: Laurie Halverson

The time being 9:14 a.m. and pursuant to public notice, a public hearing was

conducted to receive comments on and approval of variance to Dakota County

Ordinance No. 113, Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems for property lines

and structures at 29715 Gerlach Way, Cannon Falls, MN 55009. Water

Resources Specialist Benjamin Hoyt briefed this item and the public hearing was

opened. No one came forward with comments and no comments were received

via email. The Public Hearing was closed at 9:15 a.m.

WHEREAS, pursuant to Minn. Stat. Ch. 115, 145A, and 375 and Minn. R. Chs.

7080, 7081, and 7082, Dakota County has adopted Ordinance No. 113 to

establish minimum requirements for regulation of subsurface sewage treatment

systems to protect public health and safety, groundwater quality, and to prevent

or eliminate the development of public nuisances; and

WHEREAS, Subsection 6.01 of Ordinance No. 113 adopts the minimum setback

requirements set forth in Minn. Rules 7080.2150; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 10 of Ordinance No. 113, a “variance” is an

exception that may be granted by the Dakota County Board of Commissioners

from the literal provisions of the regulation where it appears by the reason of

exceptional circumstances the strict enforcement of any provision of the

standards would be unreasonable, impractical or not feasible under the

circumstances in order to promote the effective and reasonable application and

enforcement of the provisions of the ordinance; and

WHEREAS, a variance has been requested by the property owner, Joshua

Dockter (Applicant), to construct a replacement septic system that encroaches

within the minimum structure and property line setback distances required by

Minn. Rules 7080.2150 at 29715 Gerlach Way, Cannon Falls, MN 55009; and

WHEREAS, notice of the public hearing was published in the newspaper of

record for Dakota County on August 28, 2025, and September 4, 2025; and

WHEREAS, the Dakota County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing

on September 23, 2025, in the Boardroom, Dakota County Administration

Center, 1590 Highway 55, Hastings, Minnesota, for the purpose of receiving

comments on the proposed variance to Dakota County Ordinance No. 113,

Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems for property lines and structures at

29715 Gerlach Way Cannon Falls, MN 55009; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to Subsection 10.03 (F) of Ordinance 113, a variance may

be granted provided that: (1) the conditions causing the demonstrated hardship

are unique to the property and were not caused by the action of the applicant;

(2) the granting of the variance will not be contrary to the public interest or

damaging to the rights of other person or property values in the vicinity; (3) the

property owner would have no reasonable use of the land without the variance;

(4) the granting of the variance would not allow a prohibited use; and (5) the

granting of the variance would be in accordance with Minn. R. Chs. 7080, 7081,

and 7082; and

WHEREAS, the Applicant has provided the following information establishing

why compliance with the setback provisions is difficult or inappropriate: (1) the

property owner must build a new septic system to replace an existing system

that is worn out; (2) due to the size of the lot, placement of neighboring wells,

and other infrastructure, the only remaining area available would encroach upon

the property line to the township road and to the property owner’s attached

garage; (3) the placement of the proposed septic system would cover most of

the same area as the existing system that is being replace; (4) strict adherence

to ordinance’s set back requirements would prohibit construction of a septic

system of appropriate capacity for the existing structure on the property; (5)

alternative would be more costly and would operate at a lower capacity or a

holding tank system that would require pumping several times a month; (6) the

property is in a neighborhood where acquiring additional property is infeasible as

every neighbor has similar restrictions; and denial of a variance would limit the

owner’s ability to maintain their residence on the lot; and

WHEREAS, the Dakota County Environmental Resources Department

recommends approval of the variance based on its review of the information

provided by the Applicant; and

WHEREAS, the Dakota County Board of Commissioners has reviewed the

variance request at the public hearing on September 23, 2025, and made the

following determination based on the information provided by the Applicant:

1. the conditions causing the demonstrated hardship are unique to the

property and were not caused by the action of the applicant; and

2. the granting of the variance will not be contrary to the public interest or

damaging to the rights of other persons or to property values in the

vicinity; and

3. the property owner would have no reasonable use of the land without the

variance; and

4. the granting of the variance would not allow a prohibited use; and

5. the granting of the variance would be in accordance with Minn. R. chs.

7080, 7081, and 7082.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby approve the variance to County Ordinance 113

Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems 6.01 Standards adopted by reference

Minn. Rules 7080.2150 Final Treatment and Dispersal F. Table VII: Minimum

property line and structure setback distances to allow one foot from the property

line to the right of way with Gerlach Way, and four feet to the property owner’s

attached garage, as presented on September 23, 2025.

Ayes: 7

CONSENT AGENDA

On a motion by Commissioner Atkins, seconded by Commissioner Hamann-Roland, the

Consent agenda was approved as follows:

County Administration - Approval of Minutes

Resolution No: 25-433

6.1

Approval of Minutes of Meeting Held on September 9, 2025

Motion: Joe Atkins

Ayes: 7

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

Items Recommended by Board Committee*

Resolution No: 25-434

7.1

Approval Of 2026 Medical Plans And Premium Rates

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, due to 2026 IRS limit changes in minimum deductibles for High

Deductible Health Plans, the Dakota Health Savings Account (HSA) plan will

have an increase in deductible $1700 for single and $3400 for family; and

WHEREAS this change will increase the County annual HSA contribution to

$850 for single and $1700 for family enrollment; and

WHEREAS, proposed premium rates for 2026 have been identified considering

utilization and claims experience of the three Plans, medical trend, Affordable

Care Act fees, and administrative expenses; and

WHEREAS, self-funded medical plan expenses projected for 2026 result in an

aggregate rate increase of 8.92 percent.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby approves the aggregate rate increase overall of 8.92

percent to the self funded medical plan. Dakota Advantage Plan will increase by

11 percent, the Dakota Select Plan by 8.5 percent, and the Dakota Health

Savings Account Plan will hold at 2025 rates.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-435

7.2

Approval Of Contract Renewal For 2026 Dental Plan

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, the County’s fully funded Dental Plan has been administered by

HealthPartners since January 1, 2022; and

WHEREAS, proposed premium rates for 2026 have considered utilization and

claims experience of the Counties two dental plans; and

WHEREAS, renewal results in a composite rate increase of 9 percent across

both Comprehensive and Preventive Dental plans.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Employee Relations Director to approve

renewal with HealthPartners to continue to provide Dakota County’s 2026 dental

plan and related rates, subject to approval by the County Attorney’s office as to

form.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-436

7.3

Authorization To Discontinue Participation In Same-Day Issuance Pilot At

Lakeville License Center

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, in the 2021 First Special Session, the Legislature directed in

Chapter 5, Article 4, section 141 that the Commissioner of Public Safety conduct

a same-day driver’s license pilot project for participating driver’s license agents

in the cities of Lakeville and Moorhead; and

WHEREAS, Lakeville License Center has been participating in a same-day

issuance pilot project since October 1, 2022; and

WHEREAS, the pilot allows customers to obtain a standard driver’s license,

identification card or permit same day; and

WHEREAS, customers and businesses have reported dissatisfaction with the

same-day issued card; and

WHEREAS, in the 2024 Report submitted to the Legislature, the Department of

Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services is not recommending expansion of the

pilot; and

WHEREAS, due to the inconsistent security features between the same-day

issued credentials and centrally issued credentials, the diminished document

verification and no address verification, the absence of a plan to improve the

consistency between both types of cards and recommendation from the

Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services to not expand the pilot,

staff recommend the pilot be discontinued at the Lakeville License Center.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Service and License Center Director to

work with the Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety to discontinue

participation in the same-day issuance pilot at Lakeville License Center.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-437

7.4

Authorization To Execute Contract With Loffler Companies, Inc. For Managed

Print Services

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, Dakota County (County) has an ongoing need to print and copy

documents; and

WHEREAS, the County has standardized and invested in the existing fleet of

multi-function printing and copying devices; and

WHEREAS, a Request for Proposal was issued July, 7, 2025, for Managed Print

Services; and

WHEREAS, Loffler Companies, Inc. was the sole responder to the RFP; and

WHEREAS, Loffler Companies, Inc. has provided high-quality customer service

to the County for over ten years; and

WHEREAS, Loffler Companies, Inc. has proposed the same price per page

rates for both color and black/white through September 2030; and

WHEREAS, Loffler Companies, Inc., was selected based on the evaluation

criteria as identified in the RFP; and

WHEREAS, staff recommends executing a contract with Loffler Companies, Inc.

for the purpose of Managed Print Services; and

WHEREAS, the total cost of the contract shall not exceed $840,000 for the

period of September 30, 2025, through September 30, 2030.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Deputy County Manager to execute a

contract with Loffler Companies, Inc. for Managed Print Services, in an amount

not to exceed $840,000, for the period of September 30, 2025, through

September 30, 2030, subject to approval as to form by the County Attorney’s

Office.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-438

7.5

Authorization To Execute Contract With Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP For

Inflation Reduction Act Eligibility And Tax Credit Advisory Services

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, Dakota County, Minnesota (the "County") owns and operates the

Lake Byllesby Dam, a hydroelectric facility that is undergoing a major

modernization project with an estimated cost of $50 million; and

WHEREAS, the federal Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA) provides for

significant clean energy tax credits, including the clean electricity Production Tax

Credit (PTC) and the Investment Tax Credit (ITC); and

WHEREAS, the requirements for claiming these federal tax credits are complex

and require specialized knowledge of tax law, particularly as it relates to energy

projects, prevailing wage, apprenticeship, the 80/20 rule, and domestic content

mandates; and

WHEREAS, it is in the best financial interest of the County to engage a qualified

professional services firm to navigate these complexities and ensure the County

can secure all eligible tax credits and benefits from the IRA; and

WHEREAS, a Request for Proposals was issued July 18, 2025, for Inflation

Reduction Act Eligibility and Tax Credit Advisory Services; and

WHEREAS, Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP has been selected as a highly

qualified firm with extensive experience in providing tax advisory services for

clean energy projects and public sector clients; and

WHEREAS, staff recommends executing a contract with Baker Tilly Advisory

Group, LP for the purpose of providing Inflation Reduction Act Eligibility and Tax

Credit Advisory Services; and

WHEREAS, the total cost of the contract shall not exceed $130,000 for the

period of October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2025, with an option to renew

for an additional five years.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Deputy County Manager to execute a

contract with Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP for Inflation Reduction Act Eligibility

and Tax Credit Advisory Services, in an amount not to exceed $130,000, for the

period of October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2030, with an option to renew

for an additional five years, subject to approval as to form by the County

Attorney’s Office.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-456

7.6

Authorization To Adopt 2024-2044 Dakota County Solid Waste Management

Plan

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, Minnesota counties are responsible for developing projects and

programs to achieve state goals for waste management; and

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) adopted the

2022-2042 Metropolitan Solid Waste Management Policy Plan (Policy Plan) on

January 30, 2024; and

WHEREAS, Minn. Stat. § 473.803 requires each metropolitan county to revise

its current solid waste management plan to implement the revised Policy Plan;

and

WHEREAS, the Policy Plan prescribes strategies that must be incorporated into

county-specific plans, including required strategies and optional strategies that

must meet a minimum point threshold; and

WHEREAS, stakeholder engagement was conducted and comments were

gathered on waste management barriers and opportunities, timing, and needs

for a preliminary set of required and optional strategies from the MPCA Policy

Plan; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 24-368 (July 30, 2024), the County Board

authorized release of the draft 2024-2042 Dakota County Solid Waste

Management Plan (2024-2024 Management Plan) for a 30-day public review

and comment period; and

WHEREAS, the 2024-2044 Management Plan incorporates input from

stakeholder engagement, public review, the Dakota County Planning

Commission, and the County Board; and

WHEREAS, the 2024-2024 Management Plan was developed in accordance

with Minn. Stats. §§ 473.803 and 115A; and

WHEREAS, the 2024-2024 Management Plan communicates Dakota County’s

vision, policies, strategies, and tactics for solid waste management over the next

20 years; and

WHEREAS, the 2024-2024 Management Plan includes Policy Plan required

strategies and optional strategies that meet the minimum point value; and

WHEREAS, tactics and timelines have been included as required by Minn. Stat.

§ 115A.46; and

WHEREAS, revised Metropolitan county master plans must be submitted to the

MPCA Commissioner for review and approval; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 24-514 (October 29, 2024), the County Board

authorized submittal of the draft 2024-2044 Management Plan, dated October

2024, to the MPCA for review and approval; and

WHEREAS, the MPCA Commissioner approved the 2024-2044 Management

Plan on August 22, 2025; and

WHEREAS, staff recommends adoption of the 2024-2044 Management Plan;

and

WHEREAS, implementation and costs will be determined annually as part of the

County Board of Commissioners' work plan priorities and approval of the

Environmental Resources Department budget.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby adopts the 2024-2044 Solid Waste Management Plan.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-457

7.7

Authorization To Execute Contract With McKinstry Essention, LLC, For Energy

Improvements Project Phase Two Investment Grade Audit

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, Dakota County operates over 1.6 million square feet of buildings,

consuming $2,300,000 in annual energy expenses in 2023; and

WHEREAS, the Phase 1 Energy Improvements project converted over 14,000

lights to LED, added approximately one megawatt of solar across four sites, and

completed HVAC retrocommissioning work at the Northern and Western Service

Centers; and

WHEREAS, the lighting and HVAC work was completed over the course of

2024, with the solar coming online in February and March 2025; and

WHEREAS, countywide facilities’ energy data from 2023 to 2024 showed a

decrease in consumption of 7.7 percent and a cost reduction of 18 percent; and

WHEREAS, building on the success of Phase 1, staff have continued the

partnership with McKinstry to explore options to maximize the County's return on

investment in additional energy projects; and

WHEREAS, McKinstry reassessed all County facilities and another set of

projects estimated to save an additional 10 to 15 percent on top of Phase 1

savings; and

WHEREAS, these include solar at five sites, mechanical upgrades at eight to 10

buildings, HVAC retrocommissioning at more than 15 buildings, and building

envelope sealing at 15 to 20 buildings; and

WHEREAS, this scope is estimated to cost between $4,000,000 to $4,500,000

and represents the best value to the County for the work to be performed; and

WHEREAS, the next step in the process is to sign a contract for an Investment

Grade Audit with McKinstry Essention, LLC to position the project to seek utility

rebates and state and federal funding sources, which will shorten the project

return on investment and increase the net present value.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Facilities Management Director to

execute a contract in an amount not to exceed $155,500 with McKinstry

Essention, LLC, to perform an Investment Grade Audit for Phase 2, subject to

approval by the County Attorney’s Office as to form.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-458

7.8

Approval Of 2026 Proposed Eligible Projects List To Be Released For County

Transportation Sales And Use Tax Funds Public Hearing

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, Minn. Stat. § 297A.993 (the Act) authorizes the Dakota County

Board to levy up to one-half of one percent sales and use tax and an excise tax

of $20 per motor vehicle to fund statutorily defined transportation and transit

projects; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 17-364 (June 20, 2017), the Dakota County

Board enacted a quarter-cent sales tax and $20 excise tax on new vehicle sales

starting October 1, 2017, to fund identified transitway, transit expansion, regional

County highway, trail, and trunk highway transportation projects; and

WHEREAS, staff has identified a proposed updated list of transportation

projects eligible for Transportation Sales and Use Tax funds based on the needs

identified in the Draft 2040 Transportation Plan and through the development of

the 2026-2030 Draft Capital Improvement Program; and

WHEREAS, Board approval of the proposed eligible list for utilization of the

Transportation Sales and Use Tax will allow for a public hearing to be

scheduled; and

WHEREAS, the Act allows the County Board to dedicate the proceeds of the

Transportation Sales and Use Tax to a new enumerated project or projects by

resolution after a public hearing; and

WHEREAS, staff recommends approval of the proposed eligible project list to be

released for Dakota County’s Transportation Sales and Use Tax Funds public

hearing; and

WHEREAS, the Transportation Sales and Use Tax Funds public hearing will be

held on December 2, 2025.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby approves the proposed eligible project list to be released

for the Dakota County’s Transportation Sales and Use Tax Funds public

hearing.

Ayes: 7

Central Operations

Resolution No: 25-439

8.1

Approval Of Policy 8102 Public ADA And Accessibility

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, Dakota County is dedicated to ensuring accessibility, equity, and

inclusion for residents, including those with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, Policy 8102 Public ADA and Accessibility outlines the County’s

commitment to comply with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

and other relevant federal and state laws; and

WHEREAS, Policy 8102 Public ADA and Accessibility emphasizes the County’s

responsibility to make programs, services, and activities accessible and to

ensure effective communication with disabled individuals; and

WHEREAS, Policy 8102 Public ADA and Accessibility reinforces the County’s

commitment to accessibility and inclusion, provides clear direction for staff, and

strengthens compliance with federal and state requirements.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners approves Policy 8102 Public ADA and Accessibility.

Ayes: 7

Report On Invoices Paid In August 2025

Information only; no action requested.

8.2

Physical Development

Resolution No: 25-440

9.1

Authorization To Execute New Option Termination Agreement With The Vance

B. Grannis, Jr. Revocable Trust

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, the County of Dakota (County) and Vance B. Grannis, Jr. and

Darlene R. Grannis, husband and wife, with subsequent interest transferring to

the Vance B. Grannis, Jr., Revocable Trust (Trust) entered into a certain Option

Agreement for Acquisition of Fee Interest of Property Subject to Permanent

Natural Area Conservation Easements I and II, dated May 9, 2017 (Article I),

which also included that certain Option for Fee Title Acquisition of Homestead

Property (Article II) (collectively the “Option”), granting the County the exclusive

right to acquire in fee simple the real property; and

WHEREAS, a Memorandum of Option Purchase Agreement (the “Option

Memo”) dated May 10, 2017, was recorded as Document No. 3192907 in the

Office of the Dakota County Recorder for the purpose of memorializing and

giving public notice of the Option; and

WHEREAS, the Trust now seeks termination of the Option to pursue

development of a nature conservancy center; and

WHEREAS, the County is amenable to terminating the Option to facilitate the

Trust’s proposal with the understanding that existing conservation easements

over the Property running in favor of the County shall remain in full force and

effect; and

WHEREAS, the Trust, in exchange for the County’s agreement to terminate the

Option, is willing to convey certain easements over other real property owned by

the Trust for purposes of highway right of way needs for the County’s future

Barnes Avenue Project; and

WHEREAS, to memorialize this agreement, staff recommends execution of a

new Option Termination Agreement and Memorandum of Option Termination

Agreement to be recorded against the Property.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Board Chair to execute the Option

Termination Agreement and Memorandum of Option Termination Agreement

with the Vance B. Grannis, Jr. Revocable Trust.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-441

9.2

Ratification Of Quarterly Entitlement And Special Funding Requests To U.S.

Department Of Housing And Urban Development

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, the Dakota County Community Development Agency (CDA)

administers the entitlement funds of the Community Development Block Grant

(CDBG) program, HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) program, Emergency

Solutions Grant (ESG) program for Dakota County, special allocations of the

CDBG and ESG programs for activities that prevent, prepare for, and respond to

the coronavirus, and a special allocation of HOME American Rescue Plan Act

funds; and

WHEREAS, funds expended from previously approved projects for Fiscal Years

2021-2024 of the CDBG, HOME, and ESG programs and special allocations

must be ratified by the Dakota County Board of Commissioners; and

WHEREAS, the CDBG entitlement and special allocation expenses during the

timeframe of April 1, 2025-June 30, 2025, totaled $490,440.73; and

WHEREAS, the HOME entitlement and special allocation expenses during the

timeframe of April 1, 2025-June 30, 2025, totaled $1,985,136.42; and

WHEREAS, the ESG entitlement allocation expenses during the timeframe of

April 1, 2025-June 30, 2025, totaled $68,320.02; and

WHEREAS, the CDA has paid the requests for payment associated with the

CDBG, HOME, and ESG programs.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby ratifies the requisitions to the U.S. Department of

Housing and Urban Development for $2,543,897.17 for April 1, 2025-June 30,

2025, as presented.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-442

9.3

Authorization To Execute Contract With Natural Resource Preservation, LLC For

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Vegetation Management

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 17-274 (May 23, 2017), the County Board

adopted the Dakota County Natural Resource Management System Plan

(NRMSP); and

WHEREAS, the NRMSP identifies the need to maintain restored areas

perpetually to protect the initial investment made to restore the area; and

WHEREAS, on August 1, 2025, the County issued a Request for Proposals

(RFP) for the Lebanon Hills Regional Park Vegetation Management project; and

WHEREAS, on August 15, 2025, five proposals were received for the RFP; and

WHEREAS, RES Great Lakes, LLC’s proposal was rejected as non-responsive

because the bidder did not provide a rate for all alternative tasks, as required by

the RFP; and

WHEREAS, best value contracting was used to evaluate and award this RFP;

and

WHEREAS, the proposal evaluation team scored each proposal and selected

Natural Resource Preservation, LLC; and

WHEREAS, the RFP stipulated that the initial contract term would expire on

September 30, 2026; and

WHEREAS, the RFP stipulated that the contract could be extended for up to two

additional 12-month terms ending on September 30, 2027, and September 30,

2028, respectively; and

WHEREAS, staff recommends that the total contract amount be set up to not

exceed $875,000; and

WHEREAS, adequate funds for the initial contract term are available within the

2025 Adopted Parks Natural Resource Base Fund Budget; and

WHEREAS, staff recommends executing the contract with Natural Resource

Preservation, LLC.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Parks Director to execute a contract with

Natural Resource Preservation, LLC., for Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Vegetation Management project to manage natural areas of Lebanon Hills

Regional Park through September 30, 2026, with the option to extend the

contract for up to two additional 12-month term until September 30, 2027 and

September 30 2028, in a total amount not to exceed $875,000, subject to

approval by the County Attorney’s Office as to form.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-443

9.4

Authorization To Execute Agreement With And Accept Grant Funds From

Department Of Natural Resources For Mississippi River Public Boat Launch At

Spring Lake Park Reserve And Amend 2025 Parks Capital Improvement

Program Budget

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, the State Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Environment and Natural

Resources Finance bill awarded Dakota County $1,200,000 through a

Department of Natural Resources grant program to fund the addition of a public

boat launch along the Mississippi River between South St. Paul and Hastings;

and

WHEREAS, the State Fiscal Year 2026 Omnibus Environment and Natural

Resources Finance bill provided an extension for the boat launch to June 30,

2016; and

WHEREAS, a State funding source reduces the burden on local taxpayers for

regional improvements; and

WHEREAS, the Spring Lake Park Reserve Master Plan identifies a new public

boat launch at the Fischer Ave river access.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Parks Director to execute the Department

of Natural Resources grant agreement and accept the grant funds for the

Mississippi River public boat launch at Spring Lake Park Reserve, subject to

approval by the County Attorney’s Office as to form; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the 2025 Parks Capital Improvement

Program Budget is hereby amended as follows:

Spring Lake Park Reserve Master Plan Improvements: River Access and

Site Programming County Project P00148

Expense

Mississippi River Public Boat Launch

$1,200,000

Total Expense

$1,200,000

Revenue

State DNR Funding

Total Revenue

$1,200,000

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-444

9.5

Authorization To Apply For And Execute State Fiscal Year 2026 - 2027 Parks

And Trails Legacy Fund Grants

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, the Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment passed in 2008,

funded by a three-eighths percent increase in State sales tax over a 25-year

term to provide funding to parks and trails of statewide and regional significance;

and

WHEREAS, the Parks and Trails Legacy funds are legislatively allocated to the

Metropolitan Council, the Department of Natural Resources, and the Greater

Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Board; and

WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council’s share of the Parks and Trails Fund is

allocated to the 10 regional parks implementing agencies through Parks and

Trails Legacy grants based on Minn. Stat. § 85.53, subd. 3; and

WHEREAS, the 2011 Parks and Trails Legacy Plan specifies four strategic

directions for the use of Parks and Trails Legacy funds: 1) connect people and

the outdoors (e.g., programs, marketing), 2) acquire land, create opportunities

(e.g., land acquisition and capital projects), 3) take care of what we have (e.g.,

maintenance), and 4) coordinate among partners (e.g., collaboration); and

WHEREAS, based on the historic 40 percent legislative appropriation to the

Metropolitan Regional Park System, Dakota County is estimated to receive

$4,095,681 for the State Fiscal Year 2026-2027 biennium; and

WHEREAS, the proposed grant applications are:

-Miesville Ravine Park Reserve Improvements $1,200,000 (in year 1)

-Whitetail Woods Regional Park Improvements $1,308,689 ($308,689 in year 1

and $1,000,000 in year 2)

-Parks Outreach Program Support $200,000 (for two years)

-Parks Outreach and Engagement Coordinator $246,862 (for two years)

-Parks Tribal Liaison $100,000 (for two years)

-Plant Propagation Program and UMN Extension Partnership $300,000 (for two

years)

-Lake Byllesby Regional Park Improvements $740,130 (in year 2); and

WHEREAS, the proposed Parks and Trails Legacy Fund applications for the

Miesville Ravine Park Reserve, Lake Byllesby Regional Park, and Whitetail

Woods Regional Park projects are aligned with the Adopted 2025-2030 Parks

Capital Improvement Program; and

WHEREAS, the proposed Parks and Trails Fund application would also extend

the Outreach Program and the Outreach Engagement Coordinator position per

the 2017 Visitor Services Plan, as well as support the Parks Marketing,

Awareness, and Promotions Plan and the Spring Lake Park Reserve Master

Plan by continuing the Tribal Liaison role for two years; and

WHEREAS, these requests support the implementation of the Adopted 2024

Miesville Ravine Park Reserve, 2012 Whitetail Woods Regional Park, and 2018

Lake Byllesby Regional Park Master Plans, the 2050 Vision Plan for Parks,

Greenways and Natural Systems, 2017 Parks Visitor Services Plan, and the

2017 Natural Resources Management System Plan.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Parks Director to submit applications for

State Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Parks and Trails Legacy Fund grants and to

execute awarded grants subject to approval as to form by the Dakota County

Attorney’s Office.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-445

9.6

Authorization To Rescind Previous Award And Authorization To Award Proposal

And Execute Contract With Native Resource Preservation LLC For Miesville

Ravine Park Reserve Vegetation Management

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 17-274 (May 23, 2017), the County Board

adopted the Dakota County Natural Resource Management System Plan

(NRMSP); and

WHEREAS, the NRMSP identifies the need to maintain restored areas

perpetually to protect the initial investment made to restore the area; and

WHEREAS, this project was resolicited after the original award was canceled

based on a potential discrepancy in the insurance requirements and bidder

responses; and

WHEREAS, on August 8, 2025, the County reissued a Request for Proposals

(RFP) for the Miesville Ravine Park Reserve Vegetation Management project;

and

WHEREAS, best value contracting was used to evaluate and award this RFP;

and

WHEREAS, the proposal evaluation team scored each proposal and selected

Native Resource Preservation; and

WHEREAS, the RFP stipulated that the initial contract term would expire on

December 31, 2026; and

WHEREAS, the RFP stipulated that the contract could be extended for up to two

additional 12-month terms ending December 31, 2028; and

WHEREAS, the hourly or per-acre rates will increase by three percent for each

contract extension; and

WHEREAS, the RFP stipulated that the total contract amount would be set up to

not exceed $375,000; and

WHEREAS, adequate funds for the initial contract terms are available within the

2025 Adopted Parks Natural Resources Base Fund Budget.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby rescinds prior award and authorizes the Parks

Department Director to execute a contract with Native Resource Preservation

LLC for the Miesville Ravine Park Reserve Vegetation Management project to

manage natural areas of Miesville Ravine Park Reserve through December 31,

2026, with the option to extend the contract for up to two additional 12-month

terms until December 31, 2028, in a total amount not to exceed $375,000,

subject to approval by the County Attorney’s Office as to form.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-446

9.7

Authorization To Acquire Real Estate Interests From Dakota County Community

Development Agency For Rosemount Greenway

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, by Resolution No.12-359 (July 31, 2012), the Rosemount

Greenway Master Plan (Master Plan) was adopted by the Dakota County Board

of Commissioners; and

WHEREAS, the Master Plan established a preferred alignment for the

13-mile-long Greenway between Lebanon Hills Regional Park (LHRP) and

Spring Lake Park Reserve via downtown Rosemount and the Mississippi River

Greenway; and

WHEREAS, the City of Rosemount (City), in coordination with a private

developer, secured the majority of the necessary trail right of way, as well as

initial grading for the trail in the 3,200-foot-long Dunmore segment of the

Greenway between Connemara Trail and Bonaire Path West; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 25-156 (March 25, 2025), the County Board

approved a joint powers agreement with the City that included the roles and

responsibilities and associated costs to complete the Dunmore segment

between April 1, 2025, and December 31, 2026; and

WHEREAS, the unsecured portion of the Dunmore segment of the Greenway

involves property owned by the Dakota County Community Development

Agency (CDA) through the Dakota County CDA Workforce Housing II LLC; and

WHEREAS, CDA ownership includes a 4.28-acre parcel (Property Identification

Number 34-64596-01-010) and an adjacent 0.46-acre parcel (Property

Identification Number 34-64596-00-020) in the City; and

WHEREAS, the southern portion of the 4.28-acre parcel is developed with a

number of townhomes, and the northern portion of the parcel includes a

100-foot-wide pipeline easement and 0.28 acres of undevelopable land where a

5,344-square-foot Easement for the Greenway trail is proposed; and

WHEREAS, the adjacent 0.46-acre parcel is undevelopable due to a pipeline

easement and a drainage and utility easement, and the CDA is willing to sell the

entire parcel; and

WHEREAS, an independent appraiser completed an appraisal and the

appraised value for fee title of the 0.46-acre parcel is $10,100, and the

appraised value for the Easement is $11,500; and

WHEREAS, the total acquisition cost, including an estimated $50 for closing, is

$21,650.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby authorizes the expenditure of up to $21,650 to acquire

fee title of a 0.46-acre parcel and to acquire a 5,344-square-foot regional

greenway trail easement for the Dunmore segment of the Rosemount Regional

Greenway from the Dakota County Community Development Agency, subject to

approval by the County Attorney’s Office as to form; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the County Board of Commissioners hereby

authorizes the Physical Development Director to sign the Purchase Agreement,

subject to approval by the County Attorney’s Office as to form; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of Commissioners

hereby authorizes the Board Chair to sign the Easement, subject to approval by

the County Attorney’s Office as to form.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-447

9.8

Authorization To Donate And Transfer Two Bison To Minnesota Department Of

Natural Resources

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 20-571 (November 17, 2020), the Dakota County

Board approved the design for the bison range project and authorized a contract

amendment to retain WSB Associates for the completion of design services

through the full delivery of the project; and

WHEREAS, with all the required infrastructure in place, eight bison cows were

reintroduced to Spring Lake Park Reserve in the fall of 2022 at no cost to the

County; and

WHEREAS, Dakota County joined the Minnesota Bison Conservation Herd

(MBCH), the goal of which is to establish a statewide bison herd of 500 animals

to ensure the herd’s long-term sustainability; and

WHEREAS, Dakota County’s bison are a part of the statewide herd; and

WHEREAS, seven of those first bison came from Minnesota State Parks and

one came from the Zollman Zoo; and

WHEREAS, four male calves were born in the spring of 2023, and would have

been approaching breeding age in 2025; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 24-427 (August 27, 2024), the Dakota County

Board authorized the donation and transfer of those four male bison to the

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, which did occur in the fall of 2024;

and

WHEREAS, A female bison from Minneopa State Park joined the Dakota

County herd in Fall 2023; and

WHEREAS, that bison gave birth to a male calf in the Spring of 2024; and

WHEREAS, that calf will approach breeding age during the 2026 breeding

season; and

WHEREAS, to prevent the possible mating with familial females in the herd and

to help keep the MBCH genetically healthy, this male must be removed during

the management day, scheduled for October 1, 2025; and

WHEREAS, the mother will also be removed for two reasons: To reduce the

herd size in anticipation of the arrival of a bull to mate with the remaining

females and to reduce the travel stress on her calf; and

WHEREAS, the Dakota County Board has the authority to transfer the bison to

another public corporation under Minn. Stat. § 471.85, which states, “Any

county, city, town, or school district may transfer its personal property for a

nominal or without consideration to another public corporation for public use

when duly authorized by its governing body.”; and

WHEREAS, County staff recommends that Dakota County transfer/donate the

male and female bison to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

during the fall 2025 bison management day; and

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will work with the

Tonka Fund and/or the Intertribal Bison Council to provide excess bison from the

MBCH, including Dakota County’s male and female bison, to an Indigenous

nation or community for their use.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby

authorizes the donation and transfer of two bison to the Minnesota Department

of Natural Resources in fall 2025.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-448

9.9

Authorization To Execute Joint Powers Agreement With City Of Lakeville For

City Utility Improvement Incorporation Into 2026 Preservation Projects On

County State Aid Highway 46, County Project 46-068

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, to provide a safe and efficient transportation system, Dakota

County is proceeding with the 2026 Preservation of Paved Highway Surfaces;

and

WHEREAS, included in the County’s preservation work is an opportunity for

coordination with city stakeholders to partner on any necessary utility repairs

within the road segments being included; and

WHEREAS, the City of Lakeville desires to incorporate sanitary sewer, water

main, or storm sewer repairs as part of County Project 46-068; and

WHEREAS, County Project 46-068 is the mill and overlay of County State Aid

Highway 46 from County State Aid Highway 5 to Interstate Highway 35 in

Lakeville; and

WHEREAS, a joint powers agreement between the County and the City of

Lakeville is necessary to outline roles, responsibilities, and cost participation;

and

WHEREAS, the cost share for utility maintenance/improvements associated with

storm sewer is 80 percent County and 20 percent City of Lakeville in accordance

with the terms and conditions of the current adopted Maintenance Agreement for

Storm Sewer Systems (Dakota County Contract No. C0025412); and

WHEREAS, the cost share for utility maintenance/improvements associated with

water main and sanitary sewer is 100 percent City of Lakeville; and

WHEREAS, the Draft 2026 Transportation Capital Improvement Program

Budget includes sufficient funds to proceed with the 2026 Preservation of Paved

Highway Surfaces, including the County’s cost share for storm sewer

improvements.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Physical Development Director to execute

a joint powers agreement between Dakota County and the City of Lakeville for

utility repair work associated with County Project 46-068, which is included in the

2026 Preservation of Paved Highway Surfaces.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-449

9.10

Authorization To Execute Joint Powers Agreement With City Of Burnsville For

City Utility Improvement Incorporation Into 2026 Preservation Projects On

County State Aid Highways 32 And 42, County Projects 32-119 And 42-178

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, to provide a safe and efficient transportation system, Dakota

County is proceeding with the 2026 Preservation of Paved Highway Surfaces;

and

WHEREAS, included in the County’s preservation work is an opportunity for

coordination with city stakeholders to partner on any necessary utility repairs

within the road segments being included; and

WHEREAS, the City of Burnsville desires to incorporate sanitary sewer, water

main, or storm sewer repairs as part of County Projects 32-119 and 42-178; and

WHEREAS, County Project 32-119 is the micro surfacing of County State Aid

Highway 32 from Interstate Highway 35W ramps to Highway 13 in Burnsville;

and

WHEREAS, County Project 42-178 is the mill and overlay of County State Aid

Highway 42 from County State Aid Highway 11 in Burnsville to Redwood Drive in

Apple Valley; and

WHEREAS, a joint powers agreement between the County and the City of

Burnsville is necessary to outline roles, responsibilities, and cost participation;

and

WHEREAS, the cost share for utility maintenance/improvements associated with

storm sewer is 80 percent County and 20 percent City of Burnsville in

accordance with the terms and conditions of the current adopted Maintenance

Agreement for Storm Sewer Systems (Dakota County Contract No. C0025409);

and

WHEREAS, the cost share for utility maintenance/improvements associated with

water main and sanitary sewer is 100 percent City of Burnsville; and

WHEREAS, the Draft 2026 Transportation Capital Improvement Program

Budget includes sufficient funds to proceed with the 2026 Preservation of Paved

Highway Surfaces, including the County’s cost share for storm sewer

improvements.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Physical Development Director to execute

a joint powers agreement between Dakota County and the City of Burnsville for

utility repair work associated with County Projects 32-119 and 42-178, which are

included in the 2026 Preservation of Paved Highway Surfaces.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-450

9.11

Authorization To Execute Joint Powers Agreement With City Of Eagan For City

Utility Improvement Incorporation Into 2026 Preservation Projects On County

State Aid Highways 28 And 30, County Projects 28-080 And 30-044

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, to provide a safe and efficient transportation system, Dakota

County is proceeding with the 2026 Preservation of Paved Highway Surfaces;

and

WHEREAS, included in the County’s preservation work is an opportunity for

coordination with city stakeholders to partner on any necessary utility repairs

within the road segments being included; and

WHEREAS, the City of Eagan desires to incorporate sanitary sewer, water main,

or storm sewer repairs as part of County Projects 28-080 and 30-044; and

WHEREAS, County Project 28-080 is the mill and overlay of County State Aid

Highway 28 from County State Aid Highway 43 in Eagan to Amana Trail in Inver

Grove Heights; and

WHEREAS, County Project 30-044 is the mill and overlay of County State Aid

Highway 30 from Interstate Highway 35E to 500 feet east of County State Aid

Highway 43 in Eagan; and

WHEREAS, a joint powers agreement between the County and the City of

Eagan is necessary to outline roles, responsibilities, and cost participation; and

WHEREAS, the cost share for utility maintenance/improvements associated with

storm sewer is 80 percent County and 20 percent City of Eagan in accordance

with the terms and conditions of the current adopted Maintenance Agreement for

Storm Sewer Systems (Dakota County Contract No. C0025408); and

WHEREAS, the cost share for utility maintenance/improvements associated with

water main and sanitary sewer is 100 percent City of Eagan; and

WHEREAS, the Draft 2026 Transportation Capital Improvement Program

Budget includes sufficient funds to proceed with the 2026 Preservation of Paved

Highway Surfaces, including the County’s cost share for storm sewer

improvements.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Physical Development Director to execute

a joint powers agreement between Dakota County and the City of Eagan for

utility repair work associated with County Projects 28-080 and 30-044, which are

included in the 2026 Preservation of Paved Highway Surfaces.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-451

9.12

Authorization To Execute Joint Powers Agreement With City Of West Saint Paul

For City Utility Improvement Incorporation Into 2026 Preservation Projects On

County State Aid Highway 73, County Projects 73-044 And 73-045

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, to provide a safe and efficient transportation system, Dakota

County is proceeding with the 2026 Preservation of Paved Highway Surfaces;

and

WHEREAS, included in the County’s preservation work is an opportunity for

coordination with city stakeholders to partner on any necessary utility repairs

within the road segments being included; and

WHEREAS, the City of West Saint Paul desires to incorporate sanitary sewer,

water main, or storm sewer repairs as part of County Projects 73-044 and

73-045; and

WHEREAS, County Project 73-044 is the mill and overlay of County State Aid

Highway 73 from 980’ North of County State Aid Highway 14 to County State Aid

Highway 8 in West Saint Paul; and

WHEREAS, County Project 73-045 is the mill and overlay of County State Aid

Highway 73 from County Road 4 to Annapolis Street East in West Saint Paul;

and

WHEREAS, a joint powers agreement between the County and the City of West

Saint Paul is necessary to outline roles, responsibilities, and cost participation;

and

WHEREAS, the cost share for utility maintenance/improvements associated with

storm sewer is 80 percent County and 20 percent City of West Saint Paul in

accordance with the terms and conditions of the current adopted Maintenance

Agreement for Storm Sewer Systems (Dakota County Contract No. C0025406);

and

WHEREAS, the cost share for utility maintenance/improvements associated with

water main and sanitary sewer is 100 percent City of West Saint Paul; and

WHEREAS, the Draft 2026 Transportation Capital Improvement Program

Budget includes sufficient funds to proceed with the 2026 Preservation of Paved

Highway Surfaces, including the County’s cost share for storm sewer

improvements.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Physical Development Director to execute

a joint powers agreement between Dakota County and the City of West Saint

Paul for utility repair work associated with County Projects 73-044 and 73-045,

which are included in the 2026 Preservation of Paved Highway Surfaces.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-452

9.13

Authorization To Execute Joint Powers Agreement With City Of Apple Valley For

City Utility Improvement Incorporation Into 2026 Preservation Projects On

County State Aid Highway 42, County Project 42-178

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, to provide a safe and efficient transportation system, Dakota

County is proceeding with the 2026 Preservation of Paved Highway Surfaces;

and

WHEREAS, included in the County’s preservation work is an opportunity for

coordination with city stakeholders to partner on any necessary utility repairs

within the road segments being included; and

WHEREAS, the City of Apple Valley desires to incorporate sanitary sewer, water

main, or storm sewer repairs as part of County Project 42-178; and

WHEREAS, County Project 42-178 is the mill and overlay of County State Aid

Highway 42 from County State Aid Highway 11 in Burnsville to Redwood Drive in

Apple Valley; and

WHEREAS, a joint powers agreement between the County and the City of Apple

Valley is necessary to outline roles, responsibilities, and cost participation; and

WHEREAS, the cost share for utility maintenance/improvements associated with

storm sewer is 80 percent County and 20 percent City of Apple Valley in

accordance with the terms and conditions of the current adopted Maintenance

Agreement for Storm Sewer Systems (Dakota County Contract No. C0025410);

and

WHEREAS, the cost share for utility maintenance/improvements associated with

water main and sanitary sewer is 100 percent City of Apple Valley; and

WHEREAS, the Draft 2026 Transportation Capital Improvement Program

Budget includes sufficient funds to proceed with the 2026 Preservation of Paved

Highway Surfaces, including the County’s cost share for storm sewer

improvements.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Physical Development Director to execute

a joint powers agreement between Dakota County and the City of Apple Valley

for utility repair work associated with County Project 42-178, which is included in

the 2026 Preservation of Paved Highway Surfaces.

Ayes: 7

10.

Public Services and Revenue

Resolution No: 25-453

10.1

Approval Of Application For Assemblage Of Large Number Of People License

Submitted By Trackshot Live

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

WHEREAS, an application has been submitted by Trackshot Live to hold a

demolition derby on September 26 from 4:00 p.m. until 11:30 p.m. and

September 27 from 8:00 a.m. until 11:30 p.m. at the Dakota County

Fairgrounds, 4008 220th St W, Farmington, in Castle Rock Township; and

WHEREAS, the Dakota County Board of Commissioners is the local governing

body having jurisdiction over the proposed license, and the application has been

reviewed for compliance with the County Ordinance No. 112 and has been

approved by the Public Services and Revenue Division, Public Health

Department, Risk Management Department, Transportation Department and

Sheriff’s Office; and

WHEREAS, Castle Rock Township will review the application on September 9,

2025.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby approves the application for Assemblage of Large

Numbers of People License by Trackshot Live to hold a demolition derby on

September 26 from 4:00 p.m. until 11:30 p.m. and September 27 from 8:00 a.m.

until 11:30 p.m. at the Dakota County Fairgrounds, 4008 220th Street West,

Farmington, and authorizes the Public Services and Revenue division to issue

the license, pending approval by Castle Rock Township.

Ayes: 7

REGULAR AGENDA

11.

Central Operations

Resolution No: 25-454

11.1

Adoption Of 2026 Certified Dakota County Maximum Proposed Tax Levy

Motion: William Droste

Second: Laurie Halverson

Finance Director Will Wallo briefed this item and responded to questions.

WHEREAS, the Dakota County Board of Commissioners is required to adopt a

maximum proposed property tax levy by September 30,2025, and to establish

the date of a public hearing for input on levy and budget consideration.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby

adopts the 2026 maximum proposed property tax levy of $184,246,066 (9.9%

increase from 2025);

and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That staff are directed to conduct appropriate

calculations and file

necessary documentation with the State of Minnesota to certify this action; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a Budget/Levy (Truth in Taxation) Public

Hearing to receive

public input on the County’s property tax levy and 2026 budget is hereby

scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on December 2, 2025, Administration Center, 1590

Highway 55, Hastings, MN.

Ayes: 6

Mike Slavik, Joe Atkins, Laurie Halverson, William Droste, Liz Workman, and

Mary Hamann-Roland

Nay: 1

Mary Liz Holberg

12.

Physical Development

Authorization To Release Draft 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Program For

12.1

Formal Review

Physical Development Deputy Director Erin Stwora, briefed this item and

responded to questions. Following discussion, the only action taken on this item

was a motion made by Commissioner Hamann-Roland, seconded by

Commissioner Halverson to table the item until the October 7, 2025 County

Board meeting.

WHEREAS, the Dakota County Board of Commissioners recognizes the need to

identify and plan for future capital projects; and

WHEREAS, the County desires input from local communities in developing its

Capital Improvement Program (CIP); and

WHEREAS, staff has compiled the draft 2026-2030 CIP; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 24-476 (September 24, 2024), the County Board

scheduled budget workshops to discuss the 2024 Budget, which began on July

8, 2025; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 24-476 (September 24, 2024), the County Board

also scheduled a public hearing to be held on December 2, 2025, to receive

comments on the 2026-2030 CIP.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby authorizes the County Manager to submit the draft

2026-2030 Capital Improvement Program summary to the cities and townships

for formal review and comment prior to the public hearing; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of Commissioners

hereby authorizes the County Manager to post the draft 2026-2030 Capital

Improvement Program to the Dakota County website to allow review from

interested parties as a means of receiving further input prior to the adoption of

the Capital Improvement Program in December 2025.

13.

Closed Executive Session

Resolution No: 25-455

13.1

Closed Executive Session: Dakota County Board Of Commissioners Safety

Training

Motion: Laurie Halverson

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

The time being 10:41 a.m. and pursuant to public notice, the County Board

recessed the County Board meeting and met in Conference Room 3A,

Administration Center, to discuss Commissioner safety training.

The following were present:

Commissioner Mike Slavik, District 1

Commissioner Joe Atkins, District 2

Commissioner Laurie Halverson, District 3

Commissioner William Droste, District 4

Commissioner Liz Workman, District 5

Commissioner Mary Liz Holberg, District 6

Commissioner Mary Hamann-Roland, District 7

Heidi Welsch, County Manager

Sheriff Joe Leko

Jenny Groskopf, Risk and Emergency Management Director

Tom Donely, First Assistant County Attorney

Jeni Reynolds, Clerk to the Board

Andy Benish, Employee Relations Director

David McKnight, Deputy County Manager

Tom Novak, Public Services and Revenue Director

Teresa Mitchell, Publics Services and Revenue Deputy Director

Will Wallo, Finance Director

Georg Fischer, Physical Development Director

Erin Stwora, Physical Development Deputy Director

Marti Fischbach, Community Services Director

Gil Acevedo, Community Services Deputy Director

Mary Beth Schubert, Communications and Public Affairs Director

Lucie O'Neill, County Attorney's Office Civil Head

Mike Lexvold, Facilities Management Director

Lindsey Stier, Risk Safety Specialist

Tom Olmsted, Emergency Management Coordinator

Kelly Miller, Emergency Manager

Dan Bianconi, Sheriff's Office Chief Deputy

Jim Gabriel, Sheriff's Office Commander

The Closed Executive Session continued until 11:42 a.m., at which time the

Board reconvened the County Board meeting with all members present.

WHEREAS, upon adoption of a resolution by majority vote, the Dakota County

Board is authorized, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05 3(d), to hold a closed

executive session to discuss issues related to security and emergency response

procedures;

WHEREAS, the Dakota County Board of Commissioners desires to meet with

the Sheriff’s Office and Risk Management to discuss County Board room safety

and training for the Board of Commissioners; and

WHEREAS, the disclosure of such information would pose a danger to public

safety or compromise security procedures or responses.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners hereby closes the Dakota County Board of Commissioners

meeting on September 23, 2025, and recesses to conference room 3A,

Administration Center, Hastings, to discuss Board safety training with the

Sheriff’s Office and Risk Management.

Ayes: 7

14.

Interagency Reports/Commissioner Updates

Interagency reports and Commissioner updates were presented. Chair Slavik led a moment of

silence for Charlie Kirk. Kirk, a political activist, entrepreneur, and media personality was

fatally shot while visiting a college campus in Utah on September 10.

15.

County Manager's Report

County Manager Heidi Welsch gave a brief follow-up on the budget and thanked staff for all

their hard work during the budget process.

16.

Information

16.1

See Attachment for future Board meetings and other activities.

Adjournment

Resolution No: 25-459

17.

17.1

Adjournment

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

On a motion by Commissioner Atkins, seconded by Commissioner

Hamann-Roland, the meeting was unanimously adjourned at 11:43 a.m.

Ayes: 7

Mike Slavik

Chair

ATTEST

Heidi Welsch

County Manager