Dakota County

Board of Commissioners

Minutes

Tuesday, December 16, 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

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

No comments were received for this agenda.

Agenda

Resolution No: 25-590

4.1

Approval of Agenda (Additions/Corrections/Deletions)

Motion: Liz Workman

Ayes: 7

Second: Mary Hamann-Roland

Presentation

Minnesota Inter-County Association (MICA) and Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC)

Annual Update

The following agencies and representatives gave brief legislative overviews and responded to

questions.

- Minnesota Inter-County Association (MICA) - Nathan Jesson

- Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC) - Matt Hilgart

CONSENT AGENDA

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

Consent agenda was approved as follows:

County Administration - Approval of Minutes

Resolution No: 25-591

6.1

Approval of Minutes of Meetings Held on December 2, 2025

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Ayes: 7

Second: Laurie Halverson

Items Recommended by Board Committee*

Resolution No: 25-592

7.1

Approval Of 2026 Planning Commission Work Plan

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, Dakota County Ordinance No. 118 establishes the powers and

duties of the Planning Commission to make recommendations on plans,

policies, and programs, as directed by the County Board; and

WHEREAS, County Policy No. 1015 provides direction regarding citizen

advisory committees and states that the Planning Commission is required to

consult annually with the County Board to seek concurrence regarding the topics

they will study or on which they will advise the County Board; and

WHEREAS, the County Board has identified topics for 2026, including the

preparation of plans for natural resources, parks, greenways, and transportation;

and

WHEREAS, the Planning Commission’s 2026 Work Plan is consistent with

County Board projects.

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

Commissioners hereby approves the Planning Commission’s 2026 Work Plan

as presented to the Physical Development Committee of the Whole on

December 2, 2025.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-593

7.2

Approval Of Public Art Advisory Committee 2026 Work Plan

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, County Policy states that advisory committees are required to

consult annually with the County Board to seek concurrence regarding the topics

they will study or which they advise the County Board; and

WHEREAS, the Public Art Advisory Committee has discussed and drafted

potential directions for their efforts in 2026; and

WHEREAS, staff recommends that the Public Art Advisory Committee 2026

work plan to assist with public art blueprint planning, analyze public art inventory

along greenways, host student art contest and collaborate and consult with

departments on public art initiatives be approved.

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

Commissioners hereby approves the Public Art Advisory Committee 2026 work

plan.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-594

7.3

Approval Of Library Advisory Committee 2026 Work Plan

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, County policy states that advisory committees are required to

consult annually with the

County Board to seek concurrence regarding topics they will study or advise on,

which are outlined in their annual work plan; and

WHEREAS, the Library Advisory Committee drafted potential direction for their

efforts in 2026; and

WHEREAS, Library staff recommends that the Library Advisory Committee 2026

work plan about community input on library services, spaces, policies and

awareness efforts be approved.

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

Commissioners hereby

approves the Library Advisory Committee 2026 work plan.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-595

7.4

Approval Of Right Of Way Acquisition And Authorization To Initiate Quick-Take

Condemnation For Regional Trail Easement For Veterans Memorial Greenway

In Cities Of Eagan And Inver Grove Heights, County Project P00147

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 08-162 (April 4, 2008), the Dakota County Board

adopted the Dakota County Park System Plan that establishes a vision for a

200-mile network of connected greenway trails to provide safe and efficient

multi-modal transportation across the region, along with high-quality recreational

and educational opportunities which harmonize with natural resource

preservation; and

WHEREAS, as part of this vision, by Resolution No. 17-493 (September 26,

2017), the Dakota County Board of Commissioners approved the Rich Valley

Regional Greenway Master Plan, now known as the Veterans Memorial

Greenway Master Plan, to honor Dakota County’s more than 25,000 veterans;

and

WHEREAS, consistent with the above-stated policies, Dakota County is

proceeding with the Veterans Memorial Greenway County Project (CP) P00147,

to construct approximately five miles of regional trail, including interpretive nodes

placed along the trail that honor and recognize the sacrifice made by veterans

and provide a place for healing and sharing their stories through interpretative

elements; and

WHEREAS, Dakota County is the lead agency for design, construction

administration, and right of way acquisition for the Project; and

WHEREAS, construction is proposed to begin in 2026, and the project is being

partially funded with federal funds, which require the timely acquisition of right of

way for the authorization of project bidding; and

WHEREAS, the County Board previously authorized acquisition of right of way

for Parcels 3, 4, and 5 through direct negotiation by Resolution No. 24-594

(December 3, 2024); and

WHEREAS, negotiations have not resulted in acquisition agreements for Parcels

3, 4, and 5; and

WHEREAS, in order to maintain the project schedule and comply with funding

requirements, Dakota County must proceed with quick-take condemnation to

acquire the required easements.

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

Commissioners hereby authorizes the County Attorney's Office to initiate

quick-take condemnation of the following parcels:

20-58500-04-070 - Jacquelynne and Scott Baker - Parcel 3

A permanent easement for greenway purposes over, under, and across

the north 60.27 feet of Lot 16, Block 1, Lakeside Estates, according to the

recorded plat thereof, Dakota County, Minnesota.

Said greenway easement contains approximately 6,026 square feet.

10-44300-01-170 - Robert Snyder - Parcel 4

A temporary easement for greenway purposes over, under, and across

the south 15.00 feet of the north 75.27 feet of Lot 17, Block 1, Lakeside

Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof, Dakota County,

Minnesota.

A permanent easement for greenway purposes over, under, and across

the north 60.27 feet of Lot 17, Block 1, Lakeside Estates, according to the

recorded plat thereof, Dakota County, Minnesota.

Said temporary easement contains approximately 1,506 square feet.

Said greenway easement contains approximately 6,054 square feet.

10-44300-01-180 - Nicole Medin - Parcel 5

A temporary easement for greenway purposes over, under, and across

the south 15.00 feet of the north 75.27 feet of Lot 18, Block 1, Lakeside

Estates, according to the recorded plat thereof, Dakota County,

Minnesota.

A permanent easement for greenway purposes over, under, and across

the north 60.27 feet of Lot 18, Block 1, Lakeside Estates, according to the

recorded plat thereof, Dakota County, Minnesota.

Said temporary easement contains approximately 1,501 square feet.

Said greenway easement contains approximately 6,023 square feet.

Ayes: 5

Joe Atkins, Laurie Halverson, William Droste, Liz Workman, and Mary

Hamann-Roland

Nay: 2

Mike Slavik, and Mary Liz Holberg

Central Operations

Resolution No: 25-596

8.1

Authorization To Execute Joint Powers Agreement With Cities Of Farmington,

Inver Grove Heights, Mendota Heights, South St. Paul And West St. Paul For

Continued Emergency Management Planning

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, since 2013 and with the approval of the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners, the

County has provided emergency management planning services to the Cities of

Farmington, Inver Grove Heights, Mendota Heights, South St. Paul, and West

St. Paul; and

WHEREAS, the Cities of Farmington, Inver Grove Heights, Mendota Heights,

South St. Paul, and West St. Paul have requested that the County continue to

provide emergency management support through individual joint powers

agreements (JPAs) for a one-year period; and

WHEREAS, Dakota County agrees to enter into individual JPAs and provide

these cities

with emergency management planning support with an already-approved

sub-contractor for the

period of January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026; and

WHEREAS, Dakota County will be reimbursed by each participating city $6,578.

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

Commissioners hereby

authorizes the Risk and Emergency Management Director to execute individual

joint powers agreements (JPAs) with the cities of Farmington, Inver Grove

Heights, Mendota Heights, South St. Paul, and West St. Paul, where the Dakota

County will provide emergency management support through a sub-contractor,

for the period of January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026, subject to

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

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-597

8.2

Authorization To Execute Contract With Minnesota Department Of Public Safety

For 2024 Emergency Management Performance Grant

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the

Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Division of Homeland Security and

Emergency Management (HSEM), have awarded Dakota County the sum of

$143,008 in grant funding for the 2024 Emergency Management Performance

Grant; and

WHEREAS, the grant period runs from January 1, 2024, through December 31,

2024; and

WHEREAS, the grant provides for 50 percent matching funds from Dakota

County and those funds are included in the Risk Management and Emergency

Management Department budget; and

WHEREAS, funds received from this grant reimburse Dakota for 50 percent of

the salary and benefits for the Emergency Management Coordinator and

Specialist positions, Emergency Operations Plan requirements, Domestic

Preparedness Committee annual fees, required emergency management

conference per grant requirements, and equipment and supplies.

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

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Deputy County Manager to execute a

grant agreement with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and

the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Division of Homeland Security and

Emergency Management (HSEM) for the Emergency Management Performance

Grant in the amount of $143,008, subject to approval of the County Attorney’s

Office as to form.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-598

8.3

Establishment Of 2025 Fund Balance Commitments

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, the Governmental Accounting Standards Board has adopted

Statement 54, a standard for reporting governmental fund balances; and

WHEREAS, the County's Fund Balance Policy No. 2003 states that the Board of

Commissioners may impose certain constraints on spending that shall be

determined by the close of the fiscal year; and

WHEREAS, Dakota County desires to commit a portion of its fund balance for

future funding; and

WHEREAS, the Environmental Legacy Fund (ELF) was established to support

environmental activities for the purpose of protection, preservation or

enhancement of the environment; and

WHEREAS, by reporting ELF revenue and expenditures with the Environmental

Legacy Fund as committed, ELF will meet the qualifications of a special revenue

fund and allow the County to report the ELF activity in the Annual

Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR).

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

Commissioners, in accordance with and pursuant to Policy 2003 Fund Balance,

hereby commits the entire fund balance of the Environmental Legacy Fund as of

December 31, 2025, to support environmental activities for the purpose of

protection, preservation or enhancement of the environment.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-599

8.4

Authorization To Amend Environmental Legacy Fund Budget To Transfer Fund

Balance To Byllesby Dam Enterprise Fund

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, Dakota County owns and operates the Byllesby Dam, a high-hazard

hydroelectricity facility; and

WHEREAS, the Dakota County Board of Commissioners approved a turbine

upgrade as part of the Byllesby Dam Water-to-Wire Redevelopment Project,

leading to a period where the Byllesby Dam has been unable to generate

electricity; and

WHEREAS, the costs associated with operating and maintaining the facility

have been unable to be covered by revenues from electricity generation within

the Byllesby Dam Enterprise Fund during the period of January 2023 to

December 2025; and

WHEREAS, staff recommend a transfer in the amount of $2,250,000 from the

Environmental Legacy Fund to the Byllesby Dam Enterprise Fund to cover the

operating costs of the Byllesby Dam.

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

Commissioners hereby amends the 2025 Budget and approves a transfer of

$2,250,000 from the Environmental Legacy to the Byllesby Dam Enterprise

Fund; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the 2025 Environmental Legacy Fund

budget is hereby amended as follows:

Revenue

Use of Fund Balance

Total Revenue

$2,250,000

Other Financing Use

Transfer to Byllesby Dam

Total Other Financing Use

$2,250,000

; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the 2025 Byllesby Dam Enterprise Fund

budget is hereby amended as follows:

Revenue

Use of Fund Balance

Total Revenue

($2,250,000)

Other Financing Source

Transfer from ELF

$2,250,000

Total Other Financing Source

$2,250,000

Ayes: 7

Report On Invoices Paid In November 2025

Information only; no action requested.

8.5

County Attorney

Resolution No: 25-600

9.1

Authorization To Execute An Agreement To Provide Legal Services To Dakota

County Community Development Agency

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, pursuant to a legal services agreement, the Dakota County

Attorney’s Office is currently providing legal services to the Dakota County

Community Development Agency (CDA); and

WHEREAS, the agreement will expire on December 31, 2025; and

WHEREAS, the County Attorney’s Office is willing to provide legal services to

the agency on terms agreeable to the County and the CDA; and

WHEREAS, the County Attorney’s Office has identified that it is not aware of

any current conflict of interest between its representation of Dakota County and

its continued representation of the CDA; and

WHEREAS, the proposed legal services agreement with the CDA will extend

through December 31, 2027; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to the agreement, the County Attorney’s Office will provide

legal services to the agency at a rate of $242 per hour for attorney time and

$132 per hour for paralegal time in 2026 and $251 per hour for attorney time

and $138 per hour for paralegal time in 2027; and

WHEREAS, Dakota County Finance determined that the hourly rates include

direct and indirect administrative costs for a mid-level senior attorney and the

Civil Division paralegal in the County Attorney’s Office.

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

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Dakota County Attorney to execute an

agreement for legal services, substantially as presented and subject to approval

by the County Attorney’s Office as to form, with the Dakota Community

Development Agency from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2027.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-601

9.2

Authorization To Execute An Agreement To Provide Legal Services To

Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, the Dakota County Attorney’s Office has provided legal services to

the Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization (“VRWJPO”) for

many years; and

WHEREAS, the County Attorney’s Office is willing to continue to provide legal

services to the VRWJPO on terms agreeable to the County Attorney’s Office

and the VRWJPO; and

WHEREAS, the County Attorney’s Office has identified that it is not aware of

any current conflict of interest between its representation of Dakota County and

its continued representation of the VRWJPO; and

WHEREAS, the County Attorney’s Office has further identified that if a conflict

arises during the course of representation, the County Attorney’s Office will

disclose the conflict and consult with both the County and the VRWJPO as to

whether continued representation of both parties or either party is possible with

the parties’ consent; and

WHEREAS, the proposed legal services agreement with the VRWJPO will be for

the term of January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2027; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to the agreement, the County Attorney’s Office will provide

legal services to the VRWJPO at the internal rate of $188.99 per hour for

attorney time and $103.62 per hour for paralegal time in 2026 and $196.55 per

hour for attorney time and $107.76 per hour for paralegal time in 2027; and

WHEREAS, Dakota County Finance determined that the hourly rates include

direct and indirect administrative costs for a paralegal and attorney in the County

Attorney’s Office.

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

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Dakota County Attorney to execute an

agreement for legal services, substantially as presented and subject to approval

by the County Attorney’s Office as to form, with the Vermillion River Watershed

Joint Powers Organization for the term of January 1, 2026, through December

31, 2027.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-602

9.3

Authorization To Join The Metropolitan Council In Challenging Environmental

Impact Statement Adequacy Determination For Nelson Mine Backwater Project

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, Amrize Midwest Inc. (Amrize) is proposing to move its mine area

that supports its existing Nelson Sand & Gravel Mine Facility; and

WHEREAS, the planned new mine area would be an approximately 395-acre

parcel of privately owned land that the company leases in the backwaters of the

Mississippi River on Lower Grey Cloud Island, and the move would occur over a

20- to 25-year period; and

WHEREAS, the proposed mining operation will impact a generation’s use of

Dakota County’s Spring Lake Park Reserve; and

WHEREAS, the project required the completion of an Environmental Impact

Statement (EIS); and

WHEREAS, Cottage Grove is the Responsible Government Unit designated for

the EIS and is responsible for verifying the accuracy of environmental

documents and complying with environmental review processes; and

WHEREAS, Minnesota Rules Chapter 4410 control the environmental review

process; and

WHEREAS, Spring Lake Park Reserve is located on a west-to-east flowing

reach of the Mississippi River with north-facing bluffs and river terraces that

support rare ecosystems and offer expansive river views;

WHEREAS, as one of seven “park reserves” in the Twin Cities Metropolitan

Park System, Spring Lake Park Reserve is distinguished by its close relationship

with the Mississippi River and its breadth of cultural and natural resources; and

WHEREAS, the County has made and will continue to make significant

investment in the Spring Lake Park Reserve for the preservation of its natural

resources and as a destination for public recreation; and

WHEREAS, the Schaar’s Bluff Gathering Center is a primary attraction of the

park, along with its trailhead connection to trails (including part of the National

Mississippi River Trail), picnic areas, overlooks and other amenities for the

Mississippi River; and

WHEREAS, the proposed mine will reach 200’ deep in the Mississippi River,

approximately 2,000’ from Schaar’s Bluff in Spring Lake Park Reserve; and

WHEREAS, Dakota County provided written comments to the draft EIS by letter

dated January 16, 2025, noting the following concerns:

1. Noise Impacts

2. Visual Impacts

3. Light Pollution

4. Impacts on Wildlife and the Mississippi River

5. Recreational impacts on Spring Lake and the Mississippi River users

6. Potential Upstream Flooding

; and

WHEREAS, Final EIS was substantially unchanged from the Draft EIS and

non-responsive to the County’s substantive comments and lacking in mitigation

measures related to Spring Lake Park Reserve; and

WHEREAS, by letter dated October 24, 2025, Dakota County addressed these

substantive and procedural concerns regarding the Final EIS; and

WHEREAS, the determination of adequacy of the Final EIS was on the Cottage

Grove consent agenda on November 5, 2025; and

WHEREAS, Cottage Grove received numerous comments objecting to the

adequacy of the Final EIS, including comments from the Minnesota DNR, U.S.

Army Corp of Engineers, Minnesota Stat Historic Preservation Office, Shakopee

Mdewakanton Sioux Community, Metropolitan Council, Friends of the

Mississippi River and Minnesota Indian Affairs Council; and

WHEREAS, the Cottage Grove City Council determined the Final EIS to be

adequate by vote on the consent agenda; and

WHEREAS, Dakota County finds the Final EIS to be both procedurally and

substantive inadequate; and

WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council is charged under state law with overseeing

the acquisition and development of the regional parks system; and

WHEREAS, Dakota County is the implementing agency for the metropolitan

parks within Dakota County; and

WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council has also commented on the EIS,

reiterating the County’s concerns and raising additional issues; and

WHEREAS, Metropolitan Council and Dakota County share a similar interest in

mitigating environmental impacts to the impacts to the Regional Parks and Trails

System by the proposed mine expansion into the Mississippi river; and

WHEREAS, a person aggrieved by a final decision on the adequacy of an

environmental impact statement is entitled to judicial review of the decision by a

petition for a writ of certiorari to the Minnesota Court of Appeals.

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

Commissioners hereby authorizes the County Attorney’s Office to coordinate

with the Metropolitan Council and petition for review of the City of Cottage

Grove’s Determination of Adequacy of the Environmental Impact Statement for

the Nelson Mine Backwater Project.

Ayes: 6

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

Mary Hamann-Roland

Nay: 1

Mary Liz Holberg

10.

County Board/County Administration

Resolution No: 25-603

10.1

Scheduling Of 2026 County Board/Committee Of The Whole Meetings,

Workshops And Public Hearings

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

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

adopts the following 2026 County Board/Committees of the Whole meeting

schedule:

County Board

January 6, 20

February 3, 17

March 3, 24

April 7, 21

May 5, 19

June 9, 23

July 7, 21

August 4

September 1, 22

October 6, 27

November 10

December 1, 15

General Government and Policy (GGP) Committee

January 6, 20

February 3, 17

March 3, 10, 24

April 7, 14, 21

May 5, 12, 19

June 9, 23

July 7, 21

August 4

September 1, 22

October 6, 27

November 10

December 1

Community Services/Physical Development Committee

January 13

February 10

March 10

April 14

May 12

June 16

July 14

August 18

September 15

October 13

November 17

December 1

; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the location of the Board/Committee of the

Whole meetings shall be scheduled as follows:

· All County Board meetings will be held at 9:00 a.m. in the Boardroom,

Administration Center, in Hastings.

· General Government and Policy (GGP) Committee meetings will be held

at 9:30 a.m. (or following the County Board or Regional Railroad Authority

meeting) in Conference Room 3A, Administration Center in Hastings.

· Physical Development (9:00 a.m.) and Community Services (at 1:00

p.m.). Committee meetings will be held in Conference Room 3A,

Administration Center in Hastings.

; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That General Government and Policy meetings

that fall on a day when Physical Development Committee of the Whole meets

will be held at 9:00 a.m., prior to the Physical Development Committee of the

Whole meeting, in Conference Room 3A, Administration Center in Hastings, on

the following dates during the legislative session:

March 10, April 14, May 12

; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the County Board will hold a Special County

Board meeting on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at 10:00 a.m., at the Dakota

County Fairgrounds, 4008 220th Street West, Farmington; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That County Board schedules Finance Work

Sessions to discuss the 2027 budget and are hereby scheduled as follows:

· January 13, 2026

meetings

· February 10, 2026

meetings

10:00 a.m. or following other Board/Committee

· March 10, 2026

meetings

· April 14, 2026

meetings

· May 12, 2026

meetings

10:00 a.m. or following other Board/Committee

· June 16, 2026

meetings

· July 13, 2026

· August 18, 2026

meetings

9:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m. or following other Board/Committee

· September 15, 2026 10:00 a.m. or following other Board/Committee

meetings

· October 13, 2026

10:00 a.m. or following other Board/Committee

meetings

· November 17, 2026 10:00 a.m. or following other Board/Committee

meetings

; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a public hearing is hereby scheduled for

December 1, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., in the Boardroom, Administration Center,

Hastings, Minnesota, to receive comments on the 2027-2031 Capital

Improvement Program; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a public meeting is hereby scheduled for

December 1, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., in the Boardroom, Administration Center,

Hastings, Minnesota, to receive input on the 2025 levy and budget.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-604

10.2

Establishment Of 2026 Elected Officials’ And County Manager’s Compensation

And Commissioner General Expense Allowance

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, the County Board will adopt the proposed 2026 Unclassified

Employee Merit Compensation Policy and Plan provisions; and

WHEREAS, the County established a process within that Plan by which Elected

Officials’ and the County Manager’s compensation is determined and it is

necessary that proper compensation be established for all Elected Officials and

the County Manager, pursuant to relevant provisions of the proposed 2026

Unclassified Employee Merit Compensation Policy and Plan; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of Dakota County to provide equitable compensation

and financial incentives.

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

Commissioners hereby establishes in the context of and consistent with the

proposed 2026 Unclassified Employees Merit Compensation Policy and Plan

and other relevant provisions, Elected Officials’ and County Manager’s 2026

compensation as follows:

County Commissioner, $106,689; County Manager, $281,450; County Attorney,

$253,938 plus a $3,960 lump sum; County Sheriff, $237,146; 2026 payable

compensation per current policy:

COUNTY COMMISSIONER *$106,689

COUNTY MANAGER

COUNTY ATTORNEY

COUNTY SHERIFF

$281,450

$253,938 + $3,960 lump sum

$237,146

* Prior to 4:30 p.m. on December 19, 2025, a County Commissioner may file

with the Human Resources Director an election to decline part, or all their 2026

salary increase. For any Commissioner filing such a declination of part of their

2026 salary increase shall receive their elected portion. A Commissioner filing a

declination of their full increase, the 2026 compensation level shall be

*$103,582; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners, in accordance with Minn. Stat. 383D.05, hereby establishes a

Commissioner car/expense allowance for 2026 in the amount of $7,000 per year

per Commissioner.

Ayes: 7

11.

Community Services

Resolution No: 25-605

11.1

Authorization To Execute Interagency Cooperative Agreement Between

Minnesota Department Of Children Youth And Families, Child Support Division,

And Dakota County

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, the Cooperative Agreement sets forth respective responsibilities in

providing services necessary to the operation of the child support program under

Title IV-D of the Social Security Act, 42 United States Code (U.S.C.), sections

651 through 699b, and meets the requirements of 45 Code of Federal

Regulations (C.F.R.), sections 303.107 and 302.34; and

WHEREAS, such services include establishing paternity and establishing,

modifying, and securing financial support for minor children who are living apart

from one or both parents as more fully set forth in Title IV-D of the Social

Security Act program; and

WHEREAS, Title IV-D of the Social Security Act requires a Cooperative

Agreement between Dakota County and other county entities that are a party to

this Cooperative Agreement, namely the County Attorney and County Sheriff, in

order to compensate said county entities with respect to reimbursement for

costs incurred in providing services necessary to operate the child support

program; and

WHEREAS, the County may be reimbursed for administrative expenses incurred

as a result of the activities performed under this agreement pursuant to state

and federal law; and

WHEREAS, the total cost of the Dakota County Child Support program in 2024

was $7,447,748; and

WHEREAS, the amount budgeted for eligible Title IV-D cases and related

services provided by the County Attorney in the budget year preceding this

contract was $2,399,802; and

WHEREAS, the total estimated cost for 2026 is $2,523,055 and is $2,651,731

for 2027; and

WHEREAS, we are estimating a 5.1 percent increase to county attorney

expenses for both 2026 to 2027 due to the contract negotiations that include a

cost of living and merit pay increases; and

WHEREAS, the amount budgeted for eligible Title IV-D cases' services provided

by the County Sheriff in the budget year preceding this contract was $9,525; and

WHEREAS, the total estimated cost for 2026 is $9,811, and for 2027 is $10,105;

and

WHEREAS, we are calculating the standard 3 percent increase for the sheriff

expenses as these costs have remained low in previous years.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Dakota County

Board of Commissioners hereby authorizes execution of a Cooperative

Agreement with the Minnesota Department of Children Youth and Families for

Title IV-D Services for the period of January 1, 2026 through December 31,

2027.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-606

11.2

Authorization To Execute Subcontractor Agreement With Independent School

District 196

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 05-601 (November 29, 2005), the Dakota County

Board of Commissioners authorized a joint powers agreement between the

County of Dakota, Dakota County School Districts, and the Scott-Carver-Dakota

Community Action Partnership Agency, Inc., for the purpose of establishing a

Dakota County Integrated Children’s Mental Health and Family Service

Collaborative (Collaborative) in which Dakota County agreed to serve as Fiscal

Agent Host for the Dakota County Collaborative; and

WHEREAS, the County entered into a contract with the Minnesota Department

of Human Services (DHS) to administer the Local Collaborative Time Study

(LCTS), which is Minnesota’s federally approved claiming mechanism for

Medicaid and Title IV-E administrative reimbursement for approved Minnesota’s

Family Services and Children’s Mental Health Collaboratives, the Financial

Reporting and Payment Agent (FRAPA) from July 1, 2022 through June 30,

2027; and

WHEREAS, as part of the LCTS Contract, the County is the FRAPA and

responsible for administering the LCTS on behalf of the Collaborative, and

reporting on all LCTS funds to DHS; and

WHEREAS, the LCTS Contract cannot be assigned, and the County’s duties as

FRAPA cannot be delegated or assumed by ISD 196; and

WHEREAS, the County would like to subcontract with ISD 196 to meet those

requirements; and

WHEREAS, the purpose of the Collaborative is to foster collaborative prevention

and early intervention efforts to improve the stability and health of all children

ages birth to age 18, or children birth to age 22 with disabilities, and their

families through the coordination of multi-agency services and informal and

formal supports within the community; and

WHEREAS, Dakota County has received approximately $75,000 annually from

the Collaborative to pay for a portion of the Collaborative’s Coordinator’s salary

in support of day-to-day operations to carry out the Collaborative Governing

Board’s directives; and

WHEREAS, the county has also provided Legal, Risk Management, Contracts,

Fiscal, Audit, Budget, and Administrative Operations services as in-kind

contribution; and

WHEREAS, Dakota County Social Services staff evaluated the Fiscal Agent role

and determined the following:

· Social Services budget constraints required the elimination of FTE in non-

mandated services, which included the Collaborative Coordinator

position; and

· Amount of time and resources being put toward the Collaborative; and

· Issues related to the County’s liability in serving as the Fiscal Agent to the

Collaborative; and

WHEREAS, on June 3, 2025, written notice was provided to the Collaborative

Chair indicating that the County will no longer provide coordination services and

serve as the Collaborative Fiscal Agent; and

WHEREAS, on August 27, 2025, the Collaborative Governing Board

unanimously approved ISD 196 to assume the Collaborative Fiscal Agent and

Collaborative Coordinator role for the Collaborative effective January 1, 2026.

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

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Community Services Director to execute

a subcontractor agreement with Independent School District 196 to provide data

and consultation for Dakota County to meet its fiscal reporting and payment

agent duties from January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, substantially as

presented to the Community Services Committee of the Whole on December

16, 2025, subject to approval by the County Attorney’s Office as to form.

Ayes: 7

12.

Physical Development

Resolution No: 25-607

12.1

Certification Of Dakota County Portion Of 2026 Vermillion River Watershed

Management Tax District Tax Levy

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 02-347 (June 25, 2002), and amended by

Resolution No. 24-623 (December 17, 2024), the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners executed a joint powers agreement between Dakota County and

Scott County to govern the Vermillion River Watershed; and

WHEREAS, the joint powers agreement establishes a Joint Powers Board

consisting of two commissioners from Dakota County and one from Scott

County; and

WHEREAS, funding is needed for Dakota County’s share of costs associated

with managing the Vermillion River Watershed; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 02-296 (June 4, 2002), the Dakota County Board

of Commissioners established the Vermillion River Watershed Management Tax

District through Ordinance No. 127 to fund Dakota County’s share of costs

associated with managing the Vermillion River Watershed; and

WHEREAS, approval and adoption of the Watershed Management Plan, as

required by Minn. Stat. Ch. 103B, occurred in June 2016; and

WHEREAS, the joint powers agreement states that the Vermillion River

Watershed Joint Powers Board will adopt a budget and recommend a levy for

the portion of the Watershed Management Tax District in each county by

September 1 of each year; and

WHEREAS, on December 4, 2025, the Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers

Board adopted a proposed budget of $2,848,648, including the use of 2025 fund

balance and grant revenues, and recommended that the levy for the Dakota

County portion be $1,037,693 and the levy for the Scott County portion be

$40,532; and

WHEREAS, Dakota County must certify a levy on the Watershed Management

Tax District by December 28, 2025, to be effective for taxes payable in 2026;

and

WHEREAS, Dakota County certified a proposed levy of $1,037,693 for the

Vermillion River Watershed Management Tax District on September 9, 2025, to

be effective for taxes payable in 2026.

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

Commissioners hereby certifies the Dakota County portion of the Vermillion

River Watershed Management Tax District levy in the amount of $1,037,693 for

taxes payable in 2026.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-608

12.2

Authorization To Execute First Amendment To Joint Powers Agreements With

Townships And Cities For Septic System Maintenance Programs

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, in 2016, the County entered into joint powers agreements (JPA)

with 13 separate cities and townships to perform administrative services for each

municipality’s septic pumping program.

The municipalities include:

Townships:

Castle Rock

Douglas

Cities:

Coates

Empire

Hampton

Miesville

Eureka

Greenvale

Hampton

Marshan

Nininger

Ravenna

Sciota

; and

WHEREAS, the JPAs provide that the County will maintain a database of

properties with septic systems within each Municipality, send required reminders

to the property owners to pump their septic systems every three years, and

maintain records of pumping compliance; and

WHEREAS, the initial term of each JPA was for ten years and the agreements

will expire on December 31, 2025; and

WHEREAS, the JPAs provide that the parties may extend the initial term for

another ten years with the approval of the parties’ respective governing bodies;

and

WHEREAS, the parties desire to extend each JPA for an additional ten-year

term, so that the County may continue to provide record-keeping and other

administrative services for each Municipality; and

WHEREAS, the parties further desire to update the JPA terms, including by

modifying the method by which the County will provide records to each

Municipality upon expiration or termination of each JPA; and

WHEREAS, the Municipalities will continue to reimburse the County for its costs

in providing the administrative services by paying the Pump Maintenance

Program Fee established in the County’s fee schedule.

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

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Environmental Resources Director to

execute amendments to the joint powers agreements (JPA) with each of the

Municipalities listed below, extending the terms of the JPAs through December

31, 2035 and providing updates to the JPAs, including by modifying the method

by which the County will provide records to each participating municipality upon

expiration or termination of each JPA, subject to approval of the County

Attorney’s Office as to form.

Townships:

Castle Rock

Douglas

Cities:

Coates

Empire

Hampton

Miesville

Eureka

Greenvale

Hampton

Marshan

Nininger

Ravenna

Sciota

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-609

12.3

Authorization To Execute Joint Powers Agreement With Vermillion River

Watershed Joint Powers Organization For Administration, Staffing, And Support

Services

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, the Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Board (VRWJPB) is

governed by the joint powers agreement by and between Dakota County and

Scott County dated January 21, 2025 with the counties providing staff support to

the VRWJPB; and

WHEREAS, the Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization

(VRWJPO) has an Administrator and other staff services provided by Dakota

County; and

WHEREAS, some staff services are provided as an underlying overhead cost as

identified in Dakota County’s Cost Allocation Plan, whereas other staff services

are provided on a time and materials basis; and

WHEREAS, the VRWJPO will reimburse Dakota County for those staff services

that are provided on a time and materials basis; and

WHEREAS, the VRWJPO will provide reimbursement to Dakota County for staff

services on a monthly basis; and

WHEREAS, the VRWJPB approved the service agreement for Dakota County

administration, staffing, and support services at its December 4, 2025, meeting.

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

Commissioners hereby authorizes the County Manager to execute the joint

powers agreement with the Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Board for

administration, staffing, and support services, subject to approval by the Dakota

County Attorney’s Office as to form.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-610

12.4

Authorization To Execute Joint Powers Agreement With City Of Inver Grove

Heights For Natural Resources Restoration Within Select Parks And Amend

Budget To Reflect Local Project Match

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, the Land Conservation Plan, adopted by County Board Resolution

20-568 on November 17, 2020, called for creating a City County Conservation

Collaborative (4C) to “more effectively protect critical undeveloped areas,

increase natural resource restoration and management, and share information

and financial and staff resources within all incorporated areas”; and

WHEREAS, in 2021, a 4C development and implementation proposal was

distributed to all cities located in the County. There was interest and support

amongst all the cities, and a request to submit potential restoration projects was

distributed. Five cities - Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Inver Grove Heights,

and Mendota Heights, submitted project applications; and

WHEREAS, Inver Grove Heights’ Seidl’s Lake Park and Harmon Park

Reserve/Salem Hills were selected to receive County support, including project

management assistance and state Outdoor Heritage Funds; and

WHEREAS, the City of Inver Grove Heights committed a minimum of 15 percent

match toward each project; and

WHEREAS, on February 7, 2023, and March 28, 2023, the County Board of

Commissioners approved to submit grant applications to the U.S. Department of

Transportation’s Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and

Equity (RAISE) program and the Legislative-Citizen's Commission on Minnesota

Resources’ Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (LCCMR-ENRTF)

program; and

WHEREAS, these RAISE and LCCMR-ENRTF grant applications included

restoration work at key nodes along the Mississippi River Greenway, including

Inver Grove Heights’ Ernster Park, Heritage Village Park, and Rock Island Swing

Bridge Park; and

WHEREAS, both grants were awarded in full, eliminating the need for any

additional local match; and

WHEREAS, the Natural Resources Restoration joint powers agreement with the

City of Inver Grove Heights establishes a standardized, citywide template for

collaboration, replacing the need for multiple project-specific agreements for

each of these projects; and

WHEREAS, the joint powers agreement centralizes information for jointly

managed restoration projects in an efficient, transparent format; and

WHEREAS, future amendments will be made by adding or updating exhibits as

new projects are undertaken.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That Dakota County execute a joint

powers agreement with the City of Inver Grove Heights for natural resources

restoration projects; and

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

hereby approves the estimated city match contributions and amends the 2025

Parks Capital Improvement Budget as follows:

Revenue

Local Program Match-City of IGH

$92,758

Total Revenue

$92,758

Expense

Natural Resources Restoration

Total Expense

$92,758

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-611

12.5

Authorization To Amend Contract With Miller Dunwiddie Architecture, Inc., For

Fischer Trailhead Project In Spring Lake Park Reserve

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, the 2024-2028 Parks Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Adopted

Budget includes a project to design and construct a trailhead along Fischer

Avenue within Spring Lake Park Reserve; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 24-133 (March 12, 2024), the Board approved to

select Miller Dunwiddie Architecture, Inc., to provide professional design

services; and

WHEREAS, since April 2024, staff have worked with a design team to progress

the design and related review process; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 24-426 (August 27, 2024), the Board approved

the Schematic Design as presented by staff; and

WHEREAS, Miller Dunwiddie Architecture, Inc., has prepared the construction

documents, posted on March 4, 2025, and advertised in the Hastings Journal on

March 13, 2025; and

WHEREAS, one valid bid was received on April 8, 2025; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. (July 8, 2025), the Board approved Eureka

Construction, Inc., to construct the Fischer Trailhead Project; and

WHEREAS, due to complications in design, bidding, and construction, an

additional design service fee of $78,400 is required.

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

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Facilities Management Director to execute

a contract amendment to increase the contract with Miller Dunwiddie

Architecture, Inc., by $78,400 to a total $430,167, subject to approval by the

County Attorney’s Office as to form.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-612

12.6

Authorization To Execute Contract Amendment With Bolton & Menk, Inc., For

Construction Management Services For Minnesota River Greenway Fort

Snelling Segment, In Cities Of Burnsville And Eagan, County Project P00127

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, the Minnesota River Greenway runs along the south side of the

Minnesota River in Dakota County, extending from I-35W in Burnsville to

Lilydale Regional Park in St. Paul; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 11-516 (October 18, 2011), the Dakota County

Board of Commissioners adopted the Minnesota River Greenway Plan; and

WHEREAS, the rapidly developing and robust recreational network that has

developed in the area has created increased demand for completion of the trail

connection between the recently constructed Loan Oak Trail Head, the Cedar

Nicols Trailhead, and the Minnesota River Greenway Black Dog Segment to the

west; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 25-044 (January 21, 2025), the Dakota County

Board of Commissioners authorized execution of a contract with Bolton & Menk,

Inc., for construction administration and inspection services for the bridge

portion of the Fort Snelling segment of the Minnesota River Greenway in an

amount not to exceed $666,423.00; and

WHEREAS, construction of the bridge began in June 2025, a month later than

scheduled, due to delays in the Xcel structure replacement; and

WHEREAS, in June, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources denied

access to the west side until the temporary wetland permit was revised and an

additional permit for the access road was approved; and

WHEREAS, progress towards construction of the bridge was further set back

due to US Fish and Wildlife Service variance to remove trees within bat

restriction time, delayed Xcel power outage, risk mitigation of fen impacts during

pile driving, and encountering rock during drilling; and

WHEREAS, these incidents and additional challenges related to the

construction process have resulted in an expanded scope of work for Bolton &

Menk, Inc., to oversee the construction process; and

WHEREAS, staff recommends execution of a contract amendment with Bolton &

Menk, Inc., in the amount of $644,375.90 for additional and expanded scope

tasks occurring during construction of the Minnesota River Greenway, Fort

Snelling Segment.

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

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Parks Director to amend the contract with

Bolton & Menk, Inc., by $644,375.90 to an amended amount not to exceed

$1,310,798.90, subject to approval by the County Attorney’s Office.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-613

12.7

Approval Of Final Plats Recommended By Plat Commission

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, new subdivisions adjoining County highways are reviewed under

the Dakota County Contiguous Plat Ordinance No. 108; and

WHEREAS, the Plat Commission examines plats prior to County Board

approval; and

WHEREAS, the Plat Commission has reviewed and recommends approval of

the final plats by the County Board; and

WHEREAS, the final plat approval by the County Board is subject to the

conditions established by the Plat Commission review; and

WHEREAS, the following plats below require approval by their respective City

Council prior to the recording of the plats.

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

Commissioners hereby approves the following final plats:

DEER CREEK 2ND ADDITION

Ayes: 7

Empire

Resolution No: 25-614

12.8

Authorization To Award Bid And Execute Contract With Eureka Construction

Inc., Amend Reimbursement And Relocation Agreement With Northern States

Power Company; And Execute Agreement With Minnesota Department Of

Transportation For Federal Participation In Advanced Construction (117th Street

East), County Project 32-65

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

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

County and the City of Inver Grove Heights are proceeding with County Project

(CP) 32-65 to reconstruct 117th Street East from County State Aid Highway

(CSAH) 71 (Rich Valley Boulevard) to the Trunk Highway (TH) 52/117th Street

Interchange; and

WHEREAS, the project includes construction of a two-lane, median-divided

10-ton roadway to improve mobility, pavement condition, and freight movement

along a Tier 1 regional truck corridor; and

WHEREAS, bids were opened on December 4, 2025, and Eureka Construction,

Inc., submitted the lowest responsible bid of $14,599,448.50, approximately $4.4

million below the engineer’s estimate of $19,000,016.20; and

WHEREAS, the bid is internally consistent and reflects strategic pricing

advantages in several major items; and

WHEREAS, the City of Inver Grove Heights will contribute approximately $6.5

million toward the project in accordance with County cost participation policies,

and the project is anticipated to receive $8 million in federal funding through the

Metropolitan Highway Freight Program; and

WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 25-214 (April 22, 2025) authorized a

reimbursement and relocation agreement with Northern States Power Company

dba Xcel Energy in an amount not to exceed $1,206,000; and

WHEREAS, based on final coordination and scope adjustments, an amendment

is needed to increase the not-to-exceed amount by $10,000, for a revised total

of $1,216,000; and

WHEREAS, to receive federal reimbursement for eligible construction costs,

Dakota County must enter into an agreement with the Minnesota Department of

Transportation for federal participation in advanced construction.

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

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Physical Development Director to award

the construction contract for County Project 32-65 to Eureka Construction, Inc.,

in the amount of $14,599,448.50, 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 Physical Development Director to execute an amendment

to the reimbursement and relocation agreement with Northern States Power

Company dba Xcel Energy to increase the not-to-exceed amount by $10,000,

for a revised total of $1,216,000, 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 Physical Development Director to execute an agreement

with the Minnesota Department of Transportation for federal participation in

advanced construction of County Project 32-65, subject to approval by the

County Attorney’s Office as to form.

Ayes: 7

13.

Public Safety

Resolution No: 25-615

13.1

Authorization To Execute Contract With City Of Empire To Provide A Full-Time

Deputy For Police Services

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, the City of Empire and the Dakota County Sheriff's Office wish to

enter into an agreement where the Sheriff's Office provides one full-time patrol

deputy for police services in the City at 40 hours per week from January 1, 2026

through December 31, 2027; and

WHEREAS, the City of Empire will compensate the County a maximum of

$171,330 for the year 2026 and a maximum of $176,469 for the year 2027 to

cover salary, benefits, and vehicle expenses.

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

Commissioners hereby authorizes the Dakota County Sheriff to execute a

contract with the City of Empire to provide police services in the City at 40 hours

per week for the period of January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2027 where

the City of Empire will compensate the County a maximum of $171,330 for the

year 2026 and a maximum of $176,469 for the year 2027, subject to approval by

the County Attorney's Office as to form.

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-616

13.2

Authorization To Extend Joint Powers Agreement With City Of Eagan For

Distribution Of High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Grant Funding

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, Dakota County has been identified as a High-Intensity Drug

Trafficking Area (HIDTA) and through that designation, became recipients of

federal grant funding for investigation of narcotics trafficking offenses; and

WHEREAS, acceptance of that grant funding and the addition of a grant funded

crime analyst position was approved by Resolution No. 17-173 (March 21,

2017); and

WHEREAS, the Grant funds the assigned Sheriff's Office crime analyst who

supports the Dakota County Drug Task Force; and

WHEREAS, the City of Eagan is the fiscal agent for the Dakota County Drug

Task Force; and

WHEREAS, the County must enter into a joint powers agreement with the City

of Eagan to allow the City to disburse HIDTA grant funding to the County

through December 31, 2026 or until the Grant funds are exhausted, whichever

comes first.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Sheriff is

hereby authorized to execute a joint powers agreement with the City of Eagan to

allow the City (as the Dakota County Drug Task Force fiscal agency) to disburse

High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area grant funding to the County through

December 31, 2026 or until the Grant funds are exhausted, whichever comes

first.

Ayes: 7

14.

Public Services and Revenue

Resolution No: 25-617

14.1

Approval Of Applications For Property Tax Penalty Abatement

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, the Dakota County Property Taxation & Records Department

requests that the Dakota County Board of Commissioners approve the

abatement applications for MV Eagan Ventures and MVE Residential LLC; and

WHEREAS, in accordance with Minn. Stat. §375.192, subd. 2, upon written

application by the owner of any property, the county board may grant the

reduction or abatement of taxes of any costs, penalties, or interest if the board

deems just and equitable; and

WHEREAS, Dakota County Abatement Policy 8751 allows for approval of the

abatement of penalty when a bank-issued stop-payment is filed within 30 days

of the original payment due date, October 15, 2025; and

WHEREAS, MV Eagan Ventures and MVE Residential LLC completed the

Abatement Application, provided documentation from UPS confirming that the

package was reported lost, and included a bank-issued stop-payment notice

dated October 28, 2025; and

WHEREAS, County Board action is required for abatements that the penalty,

interest, and costs for delinquent taxes is $10,000 or more.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that pursuant to Minn. Stat. §375.192,

the Dakota County Board of Commissioners hereby approves the penalty

abatements for the parcels described as follows:

Applicant: MV Eagan Ventures

Parcel ID Number: 10-82012-01-010

Owner: MV EAGAN VENTURES LLC

Property Location: 2611 Nordic Way, Eagan MN 55121

2025 2nd Half Penalty Abatement: $19,113.36

Applicant: MVE Residential LLC

Parcel ID Number: 10-82013-01-030

Owner: MVE RESIDENTIAL LLC

Property Location: 700 Vikings Pkwy, Eagan MN 55121

2025 2nd Half Penalty Abatement: $17,965.31

Ayes: 7

Resolution No: 25-618

14.2

Approval Of 2026 Intoxicating Liquor Licenses

Motion: Mary Hamann-Roland

Second: Laurie Halverson

WHEREAS, a public hearing is required for the purpose of receiving comments

and informing the public on applications for off-sale intoxicating liquor licenses;

and

WHEREAS, all interested parties were notified of the date, time and location of

the public hearing on the Simman LLC, dba Castle Rock Bar and Gill, On and

Off-Sale Intoxicating and Sunday Sales license application; and

WHEREAS, on December 2, 2025 at 9:00 a.m., the Dakota County Board of

Commissioners conducted a public hearing on the Simman, LLC, dba Castle

Rock Bar & Grill; and

WHEREAS, a county may not issue or renew a retail license to sell any alcoholic

beverages until the County Board has received a written certification from the

Sheriff and County Attorney that to the best of their knowledge the application is

eligible to be license under Minn. Stat. § 340A.402 and Minn. Rules §

7515.0410; and

WHEREAS, the Simman, LLC application was approved by the Castle Rock

Township on December 2, 2025; and

WHEREAS, the County’s approval of the Hidden Greens, Inc. application is

contingent upon Marshan Township’s approval at their meeting on December

16, 2025.

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

Commissioners hereby approves the following 2026 intoxicating liquor licenses

and authorizes the Public Services and Revenue Division to issue the licenses

upon payment of the fees:

Castle Rock Township:

Simman, LLC, dba Castle Rock Bar and Gill: On and Off-Sale Intoxicating and

Sunday Sale

Marshan Township:

Hidden Greens, Inc: On-Sale and Sunday Sale

Ayes: 7

REGULAR AGENDA

15.

Central Operations

Resolution No: 25-619

15.1

Certification Of 2026 Property Tax Levy And Adoption Of Dakota County 2026

Budget And 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Program

Motion: Joe Atkins

Second: William Droste

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

WHEREAS, the Dakota County Board of Commissioners has completed the

2026 budget process;

and

WHEREAS, the Dakota County Board of Commissioners held budget

workshops on July 23, August 19, September 16, and November 18, 2025; and

WHEREAS, the Dakota County Board of Commissioners held the Capital

Improvement Program (CIP) Public Hearing and the Levy and Budget Public

Hearing meetings on December 2, 2025; and

WHEREAS, the total budget and property tax levy by department is included as

an attachment to this Board action and published in the official paper of record,

the Hastings Journal, after budget adoption.

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

Commissioners hereby

adopts the 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Program in the amount of

$894,008,509; and

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

hereby adopts the

2026 Dakota County budget as prepared, presented and set forth in the amount

as follows:

Total Budget: $527,684,094

Property Tax Levy: $184,246,066

Ayes: 6

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

Mary Hamann-Roland

Nay: 1

Mary Liz Holberg

16.

Interagency Reports/Commissioner Updates

Interagency reports and Commissioner updates were presented.

17.

County Manager's Report

County Manager Heidi Welsch thanked all leadership across the organization that assisted

with the challenges that came with determining the final budget for 2026.

18.

Information