In a nod to the past, the Washington County Board of Commissioners held a gathering steeped in history at Stillwater's Historic Courthouse to celebrate the county's 175th anniversary. It was on Oct. 29 that Board Chair Stan Karwoski, of District 2, expressed gratitude towards the county staff for their dedication to public service and acknowledged the historical significance of the meeting’s venue. In a special gesture, Commissioner Gary Kriesel, representing District 3, received recognition for his two decades of service on the County Board.
The highlight of the meeting was the Board's passage of a resolution, one that proclaimed Oct. 27, as the official day of the county's 175th anniversary. As part of the commemoration, the Board lauded Washington County's legacy in offering essential services including, but not limited to, elections, road maintenance, and social services, as detailed in a resolution from the meeting. This resolution, according to the Washington County's official announcement, serves as a testament to the county's prolonged commitment to its residents since being established back in 1849.
A symbol of national pride, an American flag previously flown over the U.S. Capitol was presented courtesy of Congresswoman Betty McCollum for the special occasion, which saw in attendance various state senators, representatives, Metropolitan Council members, as well as mayors and council members from cities and municipalities across the county. Further contributing to the event's ceremonial heft were representatives from the Washington County Historical Society and the Washington County Historic Courthouse Advisory Committee.
On the granular side of county business, the Washington County Board of Commissioners took decisive steps forward by making critical appointments to the Workforce Development Board. The board welcomed Nicole Linscheid and Holly Jackson as Business Representatives for their respective terms starting Oct. 30, signaling the county's ongoing efforts to bolster its workforce strategies for the local business community.
In tandem with acknowledging its historical roots, the county is also looking forward, as evidenced by the approval of a contract awarded to Pember Companies, Inc. for improvements at St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park. The company will undertake various enhancements including the demolition of the current restroom building, septic system installation, and upgrading recreational facilities. The site work bid package, amounting to $515,262.85, is financially supported by grants from the Metropolitan Council.
