Big Ideas, Big Costs: Leaders Weigh $1.2 Million Settlement Project Ideas
by Trinity Gruenberg
The Todd County Commissioners held their regular meeting on Tuesday, September 15. Commissioner Lew Noska was absent.
The Commissioners approved the preliminary property tax levy at $21,018,734, a 6.6 percent increase . The total 2027 budget is proposed at $23,864,439, offset by $900,000 in planned use of fund balance and $1,945,705 in state program aids, with the remainder to be raised through local taxes. The levy reflects cost pressures from state mandates and operations. The preliminary levy acts as a ceiling; it can still be lowered, but not raised, before the final vote in December.
MPCA Settlement Update
Jackie Och and Katherine Mackedanz reviewed community feedback on how to use a $1.2 million Minnesota Pollution Control Agency settlement tied to air-quality violations at a Long Prairie facility.
Public Health Director Catherine Tonn and Consultant Dawn S. outlined an extensive engagement process—surveys, open houses, focus groups and interviews—that generated dozens of project ideas and a ranked “top 10” list, led by a splash pad, indoor playground, childcare expansion, downtown revitalization and trail or park improvements.
Officials stressed the funds, held in a separate public health account, must support projects that benefit residents affected by the pollution, but cannot be set aside long-term for maintenance...
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