Washington County has greenlit a series of community projects and recognized exemplary service among its staff in recent Board of Commissioners meetings. Highlights include the reappointment of watershed manager Emily Stevens, a financial boost to the Sheriff’s Office for high-tech crime-fighting gear, and infrastructure upgrades set to commence this summer.
Stevens returns as the manager of the South Washington Watershed District with a full term kicking off on May 1, as the Washington County Board of Commissioners adopted a resolution to reappoint her on March 18. Ensuring a meticulous adherence to the rule, the county confirmed Stevens as a voting resident of the district, devoid of any public office at the county, state, or federal level - soil and water conservation supervisors excepted. Notices to all necessary townships and municipalities within the watershed were dutifully served ahead of this decision.
In another significant move, the Washington County Sheriff's Office is set to receive $11,000 from Operation Underground Railroad. The hefty donation, approved by the board on March 19, will go toward purchasing a piece of sophisticated tech known as Graykey software. According to official statements, this tool will "unlock actionable intelligence to solve cases faster, reduce crime within the community, and maximize investment in mobile forensic technology."
On the infrastructure front, motorists can expect a smoother journey along County State Aid Highway 29 thanks to a $233,417.24 roadwork contract with Valley Paving, Inc., the lowest bidder out of four. Set to improve ride quality and safety, the project includes laying new pavement, sealing shoulders, and restriping lanes. To prepare to address the busy intersection of Keats Avenue South and 80th Street in Cottage Grove, Short Elliott Hendrickson Inc. (SEH Inc.) has been tapped for preliminary and final design services at a contract sum of $499,377.57. SEH Inc. is tasked to provide comprehensive services ranging from public engagement to final construction plans, all funded by County State Aid Highway Funds and local contributions.
Two county employees were spotlighted for their exceptional leadership. Molly Hakko took home the 2024 Minnesota Association of Community Corrections Act Counties Outstanding Supervisor Award, and Sam Gibson was honored as the “Surveyor of the Year” for 2023 by the Minnesota Society of Professional Surveyors.
To cap off the series of noteworthy announcements, a public hearing has been scheduled for April 23 to hash out proposed changes to Parks Ordinance #213. Changes under consideration include a ban on cannabis use and allowing e-bikes on trails, among other updates informed by staff and public input. These alterations are part of an ongoing effort to keep county park rules in step with state legislation and the needs of the community.
