Appointment of Assistant County Attorney Brianna Williams

Dissent: None

Moved by Commissioner Bowen [09:14:00] · Seconded by Commissioner Shaheen [09:14:00]

County Attorney Brian Lottes introduced Brianna Williams, highlighting her extensive legal background, including roles in Dakota, Chisago, and Mille Lacs counties, and her specializations in child protection, child support, and zoning. Her appointment is seen as completing the civil division legal team.

Wright County Population Trends Presentation by State Demographer

Dissent: None

Susan Brower presented data showing Wright County's rapid population growth, significantly outpacing state averages, primarily due to internal migration of younger families. She highlighted concentrated growth in St. Michael and Otsego. The discussion also covered statewide demographic challenges, including declining birth rates and the potential impacts of proposed federal census changes on funding and planning.

Approval of Right-of-Way Plat No. 78 for Highway Department

Dissent: None

Moved by Commissioner Shane [09:31:30] · Seconded by Commissioner Moyna [09:31:30]

Chad from the Highway Department presented a request for approval of Right-of-Way Plat No. 78, necessary for construction work planned for the following year on CSA 37, specifically from Trunk Highway 25 to County Road 118.

Adoption of Ordinance 26-3 (Amending Recreation Center Regulations)

Dissent: None

Moved by Commissioner Shane [09:33:30] · Seconded by Commissioner Moyna [09:33:30]

The Board considered an amendment to Chapter 155.104 of the Wright County Code, prompted by a property owner's request. The amendment streamlines regulations for recreation centers by removing a single common building constraint, allowing for larger individual buildings, and setting a 1.5% maximum property area for such developments. The Planning Commission had recommended approval.

Certification of 2027 Drainage Assessments (Resolution 2660)

Dissent: None

Moved by Commissioner Moyna [09:37:30] · Seconded by Commissioner Shane [09:37:30]

Lindsey presented Resolution 2660 to certify drainage assessments for 2027. The discussion focused on the proposed interest rates for repayment plans: 0% for one-year and 6% for seven and fifteen-year plans. The 6% rate was justified as necessary to cover administrative costs, mitigate potential risks, and account for the county's foregone investment interest, ensuring the county is not operating as a bank.

Approval of Gambling License for Buffalo Youth Hockey

Dissent: None

Moved by Commissioner Shane [09:39:15] · Seconded by Commissioner Moyna [09:39:15]

The Board considered and approved a gambling license application submitted by the Buffalo Youth Hockey Association. This item had been added to the agenda earlier in the meeting.

Discussion and Directive on Tiny Home Kiosks/Home Stands Regulation

Dissent: None

Moved by Commissioner Moyna [09:43:00] · Seconded by Commissioner Kirby [09:43:00]

Commissioner Moyna initiated a discussion regarding overly restrictive planning and zoning requirements (Conditional Use Permits, fees, public hearings, extensive notifications) for small, home-based businesses like baked goods stands, especially since they are already state-licensed. Commissioners expressed agreement that current regulations are excessive for such low-revenue, seasonal operations.

Cancellation of October 6, 2026 Board Meeting

Dissent: None

Moved by Commissioner Moyna [09:46:30] · Seconded by Commissioner Shane [09:46:30]

The Chair noted the absence of urgent agenda items for the upcoming October 6, 2026, Board meeting. Following confirmation from department heads that no time-sensitive approvals were required, the Board moved to cancel the meeting to optimize staff resources.