Public Notices February 18, 2026
MEETING #9
ISD #2170
SCHOOL BOARD
Dec. 22, 2025
6:00 p.m.
District Office
MINUTES
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by Chair Freeman at 6:00 p.m.
Roll Call was taken, members Wright, Frisk, Reeck, Trout, Reese and Freeman were present, comprising a quorum. Also present were Superintendent Tappe, Recording Clerk Larson, Business Manager Hill, Principal Koenigs, Staples World Managing Editor Anderson, students, staff members and community members. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Motion by Wright, seconded by Reeck, to adopt the agenda. MC
Chair Freeman recognized and welcomed those in attendance.
School/Community Forum
None
ConsentAgenda
Approve minutes from the November 17, 2025 Board Meeting
Approve minutes from the December 1, 2025 Board Meeting
Approve the fundraiser requests from Student Council
Approve the hire of Paul Mithun, winter afternoon weight room supervisor
Approve the fundraiser request from FFA
Approve the 2026-2029 CLC Farm Occupancy Lease Agreement
Approve the 25-26 Certified Staff Seniority List
Approve the fundraiser request from Pro Start
Accept the resignation of Penny Sebring, MS/HS Paraprofessional
Motion by Frisk, seconded by Reese, to approve the consent agenda. MC
Donations and In-Kind Contributions
Motion by Trout, seconded by Freeman, to approve the Resolution to accept Grants and Donations in the amount of $12,487.10 and In-kind donations in the amount of $3,266.00. MC
Thank you to Staples-Motley Basketball Boosters, Jim Jackson, Staples-Motley PTO, The Lions Club of Motley, Lakewood Health System, Faith Lutheran Evangelism Committee, Thrivent and Acorn Millwork for their generous donations.
Finance Items
Financial Report presented by Business Manager Hill
Motion by Reeck, seconded by Wright, to approve the November disbursements. MC
General Fund: $967,810.25
Food Service: $59,255.05
Community Service: $18,216.78
Construction Fund: $0.00
Debt Service: $0.00
Fund 21 Student Activities: $1,331.00
Fund 45: $0.00
Motion by Trout, seconded by Frisk, to approve the November receipts. MC
General Fund: $766,111.30
Food Service: $9,6729,24
Community Service: $34,833.17
Construction Fund: $0.00
Debt Service: $561.566.48
Fund 21 Student Activities: $9,646.90
Fund 45: $0.00
Motion by Reeck, seconded by Frisk, to approve the negotiation settlement of 2025-2027 Principal/Administrator Master Agreement. MC
Motion by Reese, seconded by Wright, to approve the resolution directing administration to make recommendations for reductions in programs and positions.
This is the annual resolution required to allow any future budget reductions to occur.
Roll Call Vote - Reese, Wright, Reeck, Frisk, Freeman, Trout in favor; None opposed. MC
Cabinet Presentation
-by Norbert Klimek, Transportation Director
Policy
(Policy committee minutes 12-17-25)
Motion by Reese, seconded by Wright, to approve the review of ISD #2170 policies
600 – Parent Volunteers and 731 – Post Issuance Debt Compliance with no changes. MC
Motion by Reese, seconded by Wright, to approve the review of the following MSBA policies with no changes. MC
i401 – Equal Employment Opportunity 1. 401 – Appendix A
402 – Disability Nondiscrimination
420 – Students and Employees with Sexually Transmitted Infections
505 – Distribution of Nonschool Sponsored Materials on School Premises
610 – Field Trips
610F – Supplementary Field Trip Request Form
Motion by Frisk, seconded by Reese, to approve the review of the following MSBA policies with changes. MC
704 Fixed Assets
722 Public Data Request
722 Public Data Request Form
306 Administrator Code of Ethics
410 Addendum - MN paid leave
Other
Motion by Reeck, seconded by Trout, to approve the sealed bids for miscellaneous items. MC
Comprehensive Achievement and Civic Readiness (CACR) report presented by Teaching & Learning Coordinator Pantzke and Principal Koenigs.
Motion by Frisk, seconded by Trout, to approve the 2024-2025 Combined CACR summary (Comprehensive Achievement and Civic Readiness). MC
Reports
School Board:
Freshwater
Sourcewell - 10-21-25 and 11-18-25 Minutes
Elementary Principal - Report by Principal Koenigs
Middle/High School Principal
Activities/Community Ed Director - CEAC minutes - 11-13-2025
SMEA
Superintendent - Report by Superintendent Tappe
Other - Chair Freeman reminded School Board Members of the organizational meeting on January 5, 2026 and the election of officers and committee assignments that will happen at that meeting.
Motion by Reeck, seconded by Wright, to adjourn the meeting at 6:48 pm. MC
Trisha Larson, Clerk
ISD #2170
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MEETING #10
ISD #2170
SCHOOL BOARD organizational Jan. 5, 2026
6:00 p.m.
District Office
MINUTES
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by Chair Freeman at 6:00 p.m.
Roll Call was taken, members Wright, Frisk, Reeck, Trout, Reese and Freeman were present, comprising a quorum. Also present were Superintendent Tappe, Recording Clerk Larson, Business Manager Hill, students and staff members. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Motion by Frisk, seconded by Reese, to adopt the agenda. MC
Chair Freeman recognized and welcomed those in attendance
School/Community Forum
- None
Reorganizational Items:
Chair Freeman called for nominations for Board Chair. Freeman nominated Wright.
Chair Freeman called for additional nominations two more times with no further nominations. Wright was declared the Board Chair.
Chair Wright called for nominations for Vice Chair. Frisk nominated Trout. Wright called for nominations two more times with no further nominations. Trout was declared the Vice Chair.
Chair Wright called for nominations for Clerk. Trout nominated Frisk. Wright called for additional nominations two more times with no further nominations. Frisk was declared the Clerk.
Chair Wright called for nominations for Treasurer. Frisk nominated Reeck. Wright called for additional nominations two more times with no further nominations. Reeck was declared the Treasurer.
Motion by Reese, seconded by Frisk, to appoint Trisha Larson as Assistant to the Clerk and Ellie Hill as Assistant to the Treasurer. MC
Annual Organizational Items:
Motion by Freeman, seconded by Reese, to Designate 2026 Legal Counsel, Official Newspaper, Official Depositories, Investment of Funds, Electronic Transfers, and Signature Approvals. MC
Official School Attorneys - To name Pemberton Law Office of Fergus Falls; Kennedy & Graven; and Knutson, Flynn & Deans to serve as the official school district attorneys for 2026, and that the selection be determined by the administration. Authority also was granted to the administration to employ any other attorney/law firm as deemed necessary.
Official Newspaper - To designate The Staples World as the legal and official newspaper for the Staples-Motley School District for 2026.
Official Depositories - To name the following as official depositories for 2026: First International Bank and Trust, Unity Bank Central, Mid-Central Federal Savings Bank, Mid Minnesota Federal Credit Union, MN School District Liquid Assets Fund Plus, MN Trust, and other financial institutions which are in compliance with MN Statutes governing school district depositories. Signers at these Official Depositories shall include the Board Chair; Board Treasurer; Superintendent; and Business Manager.
Official(s) to Invest Funds - To authorize school officials to invest funds on behalf of the school district:
Business Manager and Superintendent.
Agent(s) to Make Electronic Transfers - To authorize school officials to electronically transfer funds to be invested for the district: Business Manager and Payroll Clerk.
Signature Approvals - Authorize Superintendent Shane Tappe, and Business Manager Ellie Hill, to execute agreements and/or financial documents as necessary on behalf of the Staples-Motley School District.
Appoint Board Members to Serve on Educational Committees
Members voiced their intent to serve on the following committees:
Finance Committee - Freeman and Reeck
Policy Committee - Trout and Reese
District Technology Committee - Freeman
Meet and Confer Committee - Trout and Frisk
Facility Committee - Reese and Reeck
Superintendent Evaluation Committee - Reeck and Wright
Freshwater Ed District - Wright (Alternate Frisk)
Sourcewell Delegate - Trout
MSHSL - Reeck
QComp - Trout
MSBA Legislative Liaison - Reese and Tappe
Community Ed Advisory Council - Reeck
Economic Development Authority - Tappe
Contract Negotiations Teams
Instructional Group - Freeman and Frisk
Support Staff and Professional Group - Trout and Frisk
Principals and Transportation - Wright and Reeck
Superintendent - Reese and Trout
Motion by Trout, seconded by Reese, to set the 2026 meeting schedule as presented. MC
Regular meetings will be held the first and second to last Monday of each month with the first meeting of the month being a work session. In January, February and July the seconded meeting will be the second to last Tuesday of the month and there will be no work session in July or September. Other meetings may be called as needed. All regular meetings will be held in the building of the District Office at 6 p.m. School/public forum will be first on the agenda if someone would like to address the board on any topic, subject to the limitations of policy #206.
Motion by Freeman, seconded by Frisk, to set the 2026 School Board Salary at $3,550. MC
Motion by Trout, seconded by Reese, to approve the removal of Mary Freeman from Mid-Central National Bank and the addition of Ryan Wright. MC
Motion by Freeman, seconded by Frisk, to approve the resolution allowing the school district to purchase supplies or services from a School Board Member. Roll Call Vote - Reese, Freeman, Frisk, Wright and Trout in Favor; Reeck abstained MC
Other
Motion by Reeck, seconded by Frisk, to approve the Resolution relating to the Issuance of School Building Bonds in an amount not to exceed $42,500,000 and calling for a Special Election on April 14, 2026. Roll Call Vote - In Favor: Freeman, Wright, Trout, Reese, Frisk and Reeck in Favor; Opposed: None MC
Motion by Trout, seconded by Reeck, to adjourn the meeting at 6:27 p.m. MC
Trisha Larson, Clerk
ISD #2170
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NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE
THE RIGHT TO VERIFICATION OF THE DEBT AND IDENTITY OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY LAW IS NOT AFFECTED BY THIS ACTION.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN: That default has occurred in the conditions of the following described mortgage:
DATE OF MORTGAGE: April 29, 2025
ORIGINAL PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF MORTGAGE: $116,400.00
MORTGAGOR(S): Sondra Mevissen, as an individual
MORTGAGEE: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Zillow Home Loans, LLC
DATE AND PLACE OF FILING: Recorded on April 30, 2025 as Document Number A545637 in the Office of the County Recorder of Todd County, Minnesota.
ASSIGNMENTS OF MORTGAGE: Assigned to: PennyMac Loan Services, LLC by assignment recorded on October 17, 2025 as Document Number A548370 in the Office of the County Recorder of Todd County, Minnesota.
LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY: Lots 10, 11 and 12, Block 9, Townsite of Hewitt, according to the plat thereof on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Todd County, Minnesota.
STREET ADDRESS OF PROPERTY: 408 N MAIN ST, HEWITT, MN 56453
COUNTY IN WHICH PROPERTY IS LOCATED: Todd County, Minnesota.
THE AMOUNT CLAIMED TO BE DUE ON THE MORTGAGE ON THE DATE OF THE NOTICE: $123,012.38
TRANSACTION AGENT: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc.
NAME OF MORTGAGE ORIGINATOR: Zillow Home Loans, LLC
RESIDENTIAL SERVICER: PennyMac Loan Services, LLC
TAX PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 35-0016100
TRANSACTION AGENT’S MORTGAGE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 100278200006378243
THAT no action or proceeding has been instituted at law to recover the debt then remaining secured by such mortgage, or any part thereof, or, if the action or proceeding has been instituted, that the same has been discontinued, or that an execution upon the judgment rendered therein has been returned unsatisfied, in whole or in part.
PURSUANT, to the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the above described property will be sold by the Sheriff of said county as follows:
DATE AND TIME OF SALE: March 19, 2026 at 10:00 AM.
PLACE OF SALE: Todd County Sheriff’s Office, County Detention Center, 115 Third Street South, Long Prairie, MN 56347.
to pay the debt then secured by said mortgage and taxes, if any actually paid by the mortgagee, on the premises and the costs and disbursements allowed by law. The time allowed by law for redemption by said mortgagor(s), their personal representatives or assigns is six (6) months from the date of sale.
TIME AND DATE TO VACATE PROPERTY: Unless said mortgage is reinstated or the property redeemed, or unless the time for redemption is reduced by judicial order, you must vacate the premises by 11:59 p.m. on September 21, 2026.
THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION BY THE MORTGAGOR, THE MORTGAGOR’S PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED TO FIVE WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORDER IS ENTERED UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 582.032, DETERMINING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE MORTGAGED PREMISES ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING OF LESS THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE NOT PROPERTY USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, AND ARE ABANDONED.
MORTGAGOR(S) RELEASED FROM FINANCIAL OBLIGATION ON MORTGAGE: None
Dated: January 13, 2026
PENNYMAC LOAN
SERVICES, LLC
Mortgagee
TROTT LAW, P.C.
By: /s/
N. Kibongni Fondungallah, Esq.
Samuel R. Coleman, Esq.
*Alexa Marsh, Esq.*
Attorneys for Mortgagee
25 Dale Street North
St. Paul, MN 55102
(651) 209-9760
(25-1247-FC01)
THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR.
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NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE
THE RIGHT TO VERIFICATION OF THE DEBT AND IDENTITY OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY LAW IS NOT AFFECTED BY THIS ACTION.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN: That default has occurred in the conditions of the following described mortgage:
DATE OF MORTGAGE: July 1, 2003
ORIGINAL PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF MORTGAGE: $57,524.00
MORTGAGOR(S): Shawn Habiger, a single person
MORTGAGEE: Washington Mutual Bank, FA
DATE AND PLACE OF FILING: Recorded on July 2, 2003 as Document Number 418965 in the Office of the County Recorder of Todd County, Minnesota.
ASSIGNMENTS OF MORTGAGE: Assigned to: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. by assignment recorded on December 26, 2006 as Document Number 446443 in the Office of the County Recorder of Todd County, Minnesota.
LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY: Beginning at the Northwest Corner of the Southwest Quarter of Section 11, Township 133 North, Range 34 West; thence Southerly 1070 feet to the point or beginning of the land to be described; thence Easterly 660 feet; thence Southerly 660 feet; thence Westerly 660 feet; thence Northerly 660 feet to the point beginning, Todd County, Minnesota.
STREET ADDRESS OF PROPERTY: 49206 COUNTY 11, ALDRICH, MN 56434 COUNTY IN WHICH PROPERTY IS LOCATED: Todd County, Minnesota.
THE AMOUNT CLAIMED TO BE DUE ON THE MORTGAGE ON THE DATE OF THE NOTICE: $24,581.26
TRANSACTION AGENT: None
NAME OF MORTGAGE ORIGINATOR: Washington Mutual Bank, FA RESIDENTIAL SERVICER: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
TAX PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 01-0011000
TRANSACTION AGENT’S MORTGAGE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: None
THAT no action or proceeding has been instituted at law to recover the debt then remaining secured by such mortgage, or any part thereof, or, if the action or proceeding has been instituted, that the same has been discontinued, or that an execution upon the judgment rendered therein has been returned unsatisfied, in whole or in part.
PURSUANT, to the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the above described property will be sold by the Sheriff of said county as follows:
DATE AND TIME OF SALE: April 02, 2026 at 10:00 AM.
PLACE OF SALE: Todd County Sheriff’s Office, County Detention Center, 115 Third Street South, Long Prairie, MN 56347.
to pay the debt then secured by said mortgage and taxes, if any actually paid by the mortgagee, on the premises and the costs and disbursements allowed by law. The time allowed by law for redemption by said mortgagor(s), their personal representatives or assigns is twelve (12) months from the date of sale.
TIME AND DATE TO VACATE PROPERTY: Unless said mortgage is reinstated or the property redeemed, or unless the time for redemption is reduced by judicial order, you must vacate the premises by 11:59 p.m. on April 2, 2027
THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION BY THE MORTGAGOR, THE MORTGAGOR’S PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED TO FIVE WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORDER IS ENTERED UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 582.032, DETERMINING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE MORTGAGED PREMISES ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING OF LESS THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE NOT PROPERTY USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, AND ARE ABANDONED.
MORTGAGOR(S) RELEASED FROM FINANCIAL OBLIGATION ON MORTGAGE: Shawn Habiger
Dated: January 27, 2026
WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A.
Mortgagee
TROTT LAW, P.C.
By: /s/
*N. Kibongni
Fondungallah, Esq.*
Samuel R. Coleman, Esq.
Alexa Marsh, Esq.
Attorneys for Mortgagee
25 Dale Street North
St. Paul, MN 55102
(651) 209-9760
(26-0023-FC01)
THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR.
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NOTICE
THOMASTOWN TOWNSHIP
ANNUAL ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Annual Election of Officers for Thomastown Township will be held Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at the Thomastown Town Hall, 11417 241st Ave., Staples, MN 56479. Polling hours are 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The Annual Township meeting will be held after canvasing the election at 8:10 p.m.
Running for office:
•Three- (3) year term for Supervisor:
Troy Barrett
Jay Tyrrell
•Two- (2) year term for Clerk:
Write-in
*Write-ins on the ballot are acceptable.
In the event of bad weather, this event in its entirety will be changed to March 17, 2025. Times will remain the same.
Sue Walsvik, Clerk
Thomastown Township
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Minutes of the Meeting of the Todd County Board of Commissioners held Jan. 6, 2026
Call to Order
The Todd County Board of Commissioners met in the Commissioner’s Board Room in the City of Long Prairie, MN on the 6th day of January, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Byers. The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance. All Commissioners were present.
Approval of Agenda
On motion by Becker and second by Denny, the following motion was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote: To adopt the agenda as presented with addition of item 5.5 Resignation – Social Worker Sara Bipes and item 8.2 Adoption of Memorandum of Agreements – Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML).
Board Organization
Motion was made by Neumann and seconded by Becker, to appoint Commissioner Denny as Chairperson of the Todd County Board of Commissioners for 2026 proceedings. After discussion, both the motion and second were rescinded.
On motion by Denny and second by Noska, the following motion was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote: To appoint Commissioner Byers as the Chairperson of the Todd County Board of Commissioners for 2026 proceedings.
On motion by Noska and second by Becker, the following motion was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote: To appoint Commissioner Denny as the Vice-Chairperson of the Todd County Board of Commissioners for 2026 proceedings.
Consent Agenda
On motion by Denny and second by Neumann, the following motions and resolution were introduced and adopted by unanimous vote:
To approve the Todd County Board of Commissioner’s Meeting Minutes for December 30th, 2025 as presented.
GAMBLING PERMIT – MIDWEST OUTDOORS UNLIMITED –
PRAIRIE PARTNERS
WHEREAS, the Todd County Board of Commissioners are establishing their approval for a Gambling Permit for the Midwest Outdoors Unlimited – Prairie Partners through this resolution;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Todd County Board of Commissioners approve a Gambling Permit for the Midwest Outdoors Unlimited – Prairie Partners to hold a raffle event at The Hub Supper Club in Burnhamville Township at the address 30905 County 13, Burtrum, MN on March 7th, 2026.
Hire Carter Lenk PT Correctional Officer start date TBD at a rate of $25.46 per hour Grade 6/F step A.
Approve the retirement of Administrative Assistant II Debra Durheim, effective February 27, 2026.
Approve the resignation of Social Worker Sara Bipes, effective January 16, 2026.
Auditor-Treasurer
On motion by Noska and second by Denny, the following motion was introduced and adopted by unanimous Roll Call vote: To approve the December 2025 Auditor Warrants number (ACH) 905613 through 905695 in the amount of $1,327,375.91 (Manual) 1158 through 1166 in the amount of $78,271.79 and (Regular) 245548 through 245737 in the amount of $1,115,629.21 for a total of $2,521,276.91.
On motion by Neumann and second by Becker, the following resolution was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote:
A RESOLUTION DESIGNATING AN OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER FOR 2026
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes Chapter 375.12 requires the annual letting of bids for publication of official proceedings of the County Board and similar statutes require the publication of delinquent tax lists, County Financial Statements, and local transportation project bid advertisements, and;
WHEREAS, pursuant to advertisement bids were opened to be designated for those parties interested in being named as the official newspaper for Todd County on January 6, 2026.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Todd County Board of Commissioners accept the bid from the Long Prairie Leader, with a bid of $20.00 per column inch to be the Official Newspaper for the year 2026 and;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Todd County website (www.co.todd.mn.us) be also designated as an official publication for all statutory requirements.
On motion by Noska and second by Denny, the following resolution was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote:
A RESOLUTION DESIGNATING AN EXTRA PUBLICATION
NEWSPAPER FOR 2026
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes Chapter 375.12 requires the annual letting of bids for publication of official proceedings of the County Board and similar statues require the publication of delinquent tax lists, County Financial Statements, and local transportation project bid advertisements, and;
WHEREAS, pursuant to advertisement bids were opened to be designated for those parties interested in being named as the extra publication newspaper for Todd County on January 6, 2026.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Todd County Board of Commissioners accept the bid from the Long Prairie Leader with a bid of $14.00 per column inch to be the Extra Publication Newspaper for the year 2026.
On motion by Neumann and second by Denny, the following resolution was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote:
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE 2026 TODD COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS BOARD PROTOCOL
(Copy of full resolution language available in the Auditor-Treasurer’s Office for public inspection.)
On motion by Denny and second by Noska, the following motion was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote: To approve to continue to hold the Todd County Board of Commissioner’s Meetings on the first and third Tuesday of every month at 9:00 a.m. in the Todd County Historic Courthouse and Worksession designated by the Board Chairperson or three members of the County Board as deemed necessary. The County Board also approves that the November 3rd, 2026 meeting be moved to November 2nd, 2026 due to the Statewide General Election event. The County Board also approves that the year-end board meeting be scheduled for December 29th, 2026.
On motion by Noska and second by Denny, the following resolution was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote:
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING
THE COMMISSIONER’S
COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS FOR 2026
WHEREAS, The County Commissioners have wide ranging and diverse responsibilities, and;
WHEREAS, it is necessary for Commissioners to be assigned to Committees for the purposes of advocating for the County, and to effectively complete the work of the County.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the attached Committee Roster (Attachment 1) is hereby adopted as the County Commissioners’ Committee Assignments for 2026 and will remain on file in the Auditor-Treasurer’s Office.
On motion by Becker and second by Neumann, the following resolution was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote:
DESIGNATION OF
DEPOSITORIES, INVESTMENTS AND ELECTRONIC FUNDS
TRANSFERS
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statute § 118A.02, subdivision 1 (a) states “The governing body of each government entity shall designate, as a depository of its funds, one or more financial institutions.” and;
WHEREAS, in accordance with Minnesota Statute § 118A.01 through § 118A.08, the County Board of Commissioners has the official role to authorize the County Auditor/Treasurer to select depositories and make investments of funds under Minnesota Statute § 118A.01 to 118A.08 or other applicable law for and on behalf of the County of Todd and;
WHEREAS, in accordance to Minnesota Statute § 385.07, the County Board of Commissioners has the official role to authorize the County Auditor/Treasurer the use electronic funds transfers where deemed appropriate, expeditious and in the best interest of the County of Todd.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Todd County Board of Commissioners authorize the Todd County Auditor/Treasurer to select depositories & make investments in accordance to Minnesota Statute § 118A.01 through § 118A.08 where the following financial institutions are currently in place:
• American Heritage National Bank
• CETERA Investments managed through American Heritage National Bank
• Minnesota National Bank
• Gold Sweep Investments managed through Minnesota National Bank
• Moreton Capital Markets, LLC
• US Bank
• MAGIC Fund
• Unity Bank
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Todd County Board of Commissioners authorize the Todd County Auditor/Treasurer the use of electronic funds transfers where deemed appropriate, expeditious and in the best interest of Todd County.
On motion by Becker and second by Noska, the following motion was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote: To adopt the recommendations for reappointment Ted Gray for another term on the County Extension Committee.
Health & Human Services
On motion by Denny and second by Becker, the following motion was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote: To approve the Opioid Settlement funding request from Wellness in the Woods.
On motion by Neumann and second by Noska, the following motion was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote: To approve the Opioid Settlement funding request from the Todd County Sheriff’s Office.
Administration
On motion by Noska and second by Denny, the following resolution was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote:
2026 Non-Union
Employees and Appointed Officials Salaries
WHEREAS, the Todd County Board of Commissioners are responsible for setting the compensation of county employees and appointed officials, and;
WHEREAS, the Todd County Board of Commissioners desire to follow the same pattern bargained with unions for the non-union regular full-time employees and appointed officials, and;
WHEREAS, a 3.5 percent (%)general wage increase will take effect on the first day of the first full pay period in January 2026, pay date February 4, 2026, for regular full-time employees. Step increase will be granted starting the first day of the first full pay period worked in July, pay date August 5, 2026, for eligible staff.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Todd County Board of Commissioners authorize the that a 3.5 percent (%) general wage increase will take effect on the first day of the first full pay period in January 2026, pay date February 4, 2026, for regular full-time employees. Step increase will be granted starting the first day of the first full pay period worked in July, pay date August 5, 2026, for eligible staff.
On motion by Noska and second by Denny, the following motion was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote: To approve and adopt two Memorandum of Agreements (MOA’s) related to Paid Family and Medical Leave with Todd County and Law Enforcement Labor Services Inc. (LELS) - Deputies and Todd County and Teamsters - Sheriff’s Supervisory.
County Auditor-Treasurer’s Report
The County Auditor-Treasurer reported on year end balancing processes in progress, continue work with CLA for audit and working on setup of multiple upcoming school special elections this spring.
County Commissioner’s Report
The County Coordinator reported that the first official payroll has been processed through Paycom with special thanks to the Admin staff and employees for making this happen. Our State Representative and State Senator have been invited to attend the next board meeting.
County Commissioner’s Report
The Commissioners reported on meetings and events attended.
Commissioner Becker attended meetings including the Todd Trails Association. Thanks was also extended to the 2025 Commissioner leadership.
Commissioner Denny has attended meetings including Personnel. Thanks was also extended to all the Todd County leadership team in 2025.
Commissioner Noska had no scheduled meetings since the last session. Thanks was extended to all for their work in 2025.
Commissioner Byers attended meetings including Personnel and HR interviews. Thanks was given to all for their work in 2025.
Commissioner Neumann attended meetings including the extended thanks to 2025 leadership. Concerns have been raised regarding the Todd Trails Association.
Recess
On motion by Becker and second by Neumann, the meeting was recessed until January 20, 2026
AUDITORS WARRANTS
VENDOR NAME $ AMOUNT
NORTHERN STAR
COOP $ 2,594.57
TODD CO AGRICULTURAL
SOC. 3,247.74
15 PAYMENTS LESS
THAN $2,000 11,007.11
ALLEN/MICHAEL $ 16,950.00
CARD SERVICES
COBORNS 3,262.95
CARGILL SALT
DIVISION 27,776.29
CENTRA CARE 12,714.58
CENTRAL MINNESOTA LEGAL
SERVICES 2,400.00
CLIFTON LARSONALLEN,
LLP 2,730.00
DIVERSIFIED FOUNDATIONS,
LLC 33,499.34
FLEET SERVICES/WEX
BANK 6,487.59
ITEN FUNERAL HOME 2,400.00
LIBERTY TIRE SERVICES
LLC 3,219.45
LONG PRAIRIE SANITATION
INC 6,383.55
METRO SALES INC 3,510.30
MIDWEST MACHINERY
CO 57,518.00
MN DEPT OF FINANCE 6,304.00
PETERS LAW OFFICE,
P.A. 4,325.00
POPE DOUGLAS SOLID WASTE
MANAGEMENT 67,086.41
PRAIRIE LAKES MUNICIPAL
SOLID WASTE AUTH 93,473.65
STEP 9,514.48
UNITED SPRAY FOAM
LLC 4,500.00
VO/YOUNG 24,000.00
VOYANT COMMUNICATIONS,
LLC 3,300.11
WIDSETH SMITH NOLTING
INC 7,286.75
ZIEGLER INC 7,238.34
56 PAYMENTS LESS
THAN $2,000 20,211.14
ACOM SYSTEMS 4,600.00
CARDINAL
INVESTIGATIONS 2,518.75
CDW GOVERNMENT
INC 17,718.96
CITY OF STAPLES 189,853.75
COUNTIES PROVIDING
TECHNOLOGY 7,240.00
EBSO INC 321,561.00
FARM-RITE EQUIPMENT,
INC 48,497.00
GALLAGHER BENEFIT
SERVICES INC 2,000.00
HEALTH PARTNERS
DENTAL 9,031.50
LOVELACE/MIKE 27,420.29
MINNESOTA POWER 19,654.60
MORRISON COUNTY 11,208.60
PEMBERTON SORLIE RUFER
& KERSHNER 2,521.00
PHILIP’S REPAIRABLES &
COLLISION CENTER 17,339.16
REGENTS OF THE UNIV
OF MN 43,750.00
TAPCO 4,379.50
TODD CO AUD-TREAS 8,778.00
TOWN OF BIRCHDALE 25,124.78
TRITECH SOFTWARE
SYSTEMS 40,496.08
USPS-POC 10,204.43
VERIZON 5,823.61
WEST CENTRAL REG JUVENILE
CTR 14,054.00
WEST CENTRAL TECH
SERVICE AREA 6,803.93
WHEELS ENTERPRISE
INC 7,224.92
WIDSETH SMITH NOLTING
INC 2,487.20
61 PAYMENTS LESS
THAN $2,000 30,583.00
ARC ELECTRIC
SERVICE 4,104.06
CENTERPOINT ENERGY 5,633.29
COBORNS INCORPORATED
2,046.00
MARK SAND & GRAVEL
CO 205,133.65
MINNESOTA MANAGEMENT
AND BUDGET 101,793.75
PICTOMETRY INTERNATIONAL
CORP 43,100.00
STOECKEL JAHNER
INC 14,380.00
SWENSON AGGREGATE
& CONSTRUCTION 14,679.05
WEST CENTRAL REG JUVENILE
CTR 14,054.00
34 PAYMENTS LESS
THAN $2,000 8,512.50
AMAZON CAPITAL
SERVICES 6,019.06
CARGILL SALT DIVISION 21,843.64
COMMISSIONER OF
TRANSPORTATION 6,758.66
DEERE & COMPANY 133,178.38
LONG PRAIRIE LEADER 2,331.00
LONG PRAIRIE OIL
COMPANY 19,060.16
MARK SAND & GRAVEL
CO 190,773.29
NYHUS CHEVROLET
INC 35,191.08
OTTER TAIL COUNTY
TREASURER 31,488.54
STAPLES ADVANTAGE 3,019.68
TODD SOIL & WATER CONS
DIST 158,680.24
TODD TRAILS
ASSOCIATION 53,191.35
VERIZON 6,643.03
ZIEGLER INC 17,137.24
34 PAYMENTS LESS
THAN $2,000 20,438.06
MN DEPT OF REVENUE 2,288.00
MN DEPT OF REVENUE 56,996.80
US BANK - CC 13,312.31
7 PAYMENTS LESS
THAN $2,000 5,674.68
TOTAL: $2,521,276.91
On a motion by Becker and second by Neumann, the preceding minutes of the County Board meeting held January 6, 2026 were duly approved by unanimous vote at the Todd County Board of Commissioners at the Regular Board Meeting held on January 20, 2026.
Witness my hand and seal:
/s/ on file: Bob Byers,
County Board Chairperson
/s/ on file: Denise Gaida,
Todd County Auditor-Treasurer
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The Commissioner of the Department of Education Review
and Comment on the School Construction Proposal of
Staples-Motley Public School District, ISD #2170-01
A review and comment must be provided on a school district construction project proposal before the district conducts a referendum, solicits bids, or issues bonds for the project. A project proposal has been submitted for review and comment according to requirements set forth in Minnesota Statutes, Section 123B.71, subdivisions 9 and 10, and Minnesota Statutes, section 123B.72. The district provides the following information:
1. The geographic area and population to be served:
a. preschool through grade 12 student enrollment for the past five years, and
b. student enrollment projections for the next five years.
2. A list of existing school facilities:
a. by year constructed,
b. their uses, and
c. an assessment of the extent to which alternate facilities are available within school district boundaries and in adjacent school districts.
3. A list of specific deficiencies of the facility:
a. demonstrating the need for a new or renovated facility to be provided,
b. the process used to determine the deficiencies,
c. a list of those deficiencies that will and will not be addressed by the proposed projects,
d. a list of specific benefits that the new or renovated facility will provide to students, teachers, and community users served by the facility.
4. A description of the project, including:
a. specifications of site and outdoor space acreage,
b. square footage allocations for classrooms, laboratories and support spaces,
c. estimated expenditures for major portions of the project,
d. estimated changes in facility operating costs, and
e. dates the project will begin and be completed.
5. A specification of the source of project financing, including:
a. applicable statutory citations,
b. the scheduled date for a bond issue or school board action,
c. a schedule of payments, including debt service equalization aid, and
d. the effect of a bond issue on local property taxes by property class and valuation.
6. Documentation obligating the school district and contractors to comply with the following items:
a. Minnesota Statutes, Section 471.345 governing municipal contracts,
b. sustainable design,
c. school facility commissioning under Minnesota Statutes, Section 123B.72, certifying the plans and designs for heating, ventilating, air conditioning and air filtration for an extensively renovated or new facility meet or exceed current code standards, including ASHRAE air filtration Standard 52.1,
d. American National Standards Institute (ANSI) acoustical performance criteria, design requirements and guidelines for schools on maximum background noise levels and reverberation times,
e. state fire code,
f. chapter 326B governing building codes, and
g. consultation with affected government units about the impact of the project on utilities, roads, sewers, sidewalks, retention ponds, school bus and automobile traffic, access to mass transit and safe access for pedestrians and cyclists.
Description of Proposed School Construction Project
Staples-Motley School District, Independent School District #2170-01, is proposing a single question bond referendum on April 14, 2026, to finance renovations and building additions to their existing elementary school, middle/high school and outdoor athletic facilities.
The largest project components focus on renovations to the middle/high school, including classrooms areas, restrooms, locker rooms and the auditorium. Other proposed upgrades at the middle/high school include a CTE space addition, secure entrance/administrative space addition, building envelope upgrades and site improvements. Proposed upgrades at the elementary school include a classroom addition and restroom renovations. Proposed outdoor athletic facility upgrades include: track replacement, football field upgrades, new bleachers, press box and scoreboard, along with a concession stand with restrooms.
The proposed projects are estimated to cost $42,886,249 and would be scheduled for completion in the 2027-2029 calendar years. Cost estimates by location/project component are as follows:
The school district is projecting a slight increase in enrollment over the next few years but is losing a large number of resident students to neighboring school district via open enrollment. In the 2024-2025 school year, 28 students open enrolled into the school district and 475 students open enrolled out of the district: a net loss of 447 students. With an existing K-12 enrollment of around 900 students, the open enrollment loss is significant.
If the bond referendum is successful and bonds are sold, the debt service on the bonds will be eligible for debt service equalization under Minnesota Statutes, Section 123B.53, subdivision 3, if the bond schedule is approved. The amount of debt service equalization aid, if any, the district receives is determined annually and dependent upon property wealth, student population, and other statutory requirements.
Review and Comment Statement
Based on the department’s analysis of the school district’s required documentation and other pertinent information from sources of the Minnesota Department of Education, the Commissioner of Education provides a positive review and comment.
Additional Information is Available
Persons desiring additional information regarding this proposal should contact the school district superintendent’s office.
Willie L. Jett II, Commissioner January 13, 2026
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