The Murray County Board of Commissioners met on Tuesday June 18, 2024.
Ditch Inspector Travis Radke reported on five repair petitions received since the last meeting. These included two on County Ditch 43M, one each on Judicial Ditches 13, 14 and 21.
Kim Peterson, Development Director of Rebuilding Together Minnesota and RTMN Executive Director Kathy Greiner discussed the program with the Commissioners. RTMN works with those at or below 50% of the area’s median income to provide warm and safe homes. Help is provided for home repairs and revitalization of communities along with home modifications that will allow the elderly or disabled to remain in their homes. The goal in Murray County will be fund twelve homes each year. Volunteers are sought to provide the labor for projects. It was decided to set aside half of the Murray County allocation in a Housing Trust to extend the funds beyond the three year grant period if there is an amount remaining. Parks Director Justin Hoff-the dump station tanks at Swenson Park. The old 1500 gallon tank is taking in ground water and cannot be used. He presented quotes for the installation of two 1600 gallon tanks by Spartz Plumbing at a cost of $12,980. The number of camp sites has been increased, thus the increase in tank size.
IT Manager Jason Lohrenz made requests for two new items, both of which will increase firewall protection for both county government and the Sheriff’s office. Both items are also required by BCA.
Ryan Verlinde discussed the possibility of constructing a food stand for the Cattlemen’s Ass’n on the fairgrounds and the possibility of financial support from the County. Current costs of such a building are estimated at $200-220,000 with the Cattlemen committing $60,000. Further fundraising and an EDA loan were also discussed with no commitments being made.
Adam Rudd of Houston Engineering along with Highway Engineer Randy Groves presented an overview of the Valhalla Road upgrades. The designs will bring the road up to the level of the floodwaters of 2018. Multi use bike/pedestrian paths are included in the planning. Plans will be developed that will maintain access to the public throughout construction. Plans call for an early 2025 construction start.
