Residents urge Blue Earth County commissioners to oppose proposed federal cuts and ICE operations Two local residents told the board March 3 that proposed federal budget changes would strip SNAP and Medicaid support and called on Blue Earth County to publish a fiscal‑impact statement and consider a resolution opposing the legislation and ICE enforcement practices.

Mankato residents are rallying against a controversial federal budget bill they claim will deepen poverty and strip vital support from their community.

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #EconomicEquity #HealthCareAccess #SocialJustice #BlueEarthCountyCommunity

Blue Earth County pushes back on FEMA repair plan, advances dam license surrender and removal planning County staff told commissioners FEMA’s proposed sheet‑pile repair for the damaged Rapid and Dam Park structure likely would not restore pre‑disaster conditions or meet DNR/FERC requirements; staff reported pursuing further engineering review, engaging regulators and congressional offices and preparing for a potential license surrender and dam removal approach.

Blue Earth County is challenging FEMA's inadequate dam repair plan that could jeopardize safety and regulatory compliance, while exploring options for dam removal and new funding sources.

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #EnvironmentalRegulations #PublicSafety

Blue Earth County approves repair plans, select ASI approach and financing resolutions for multiple ditches The county heard engineer reports for County Ditches 88, 93 and Judicial Ditch 32, approved a field-verify/prioritize approach to water-quality side-inlet measures (option 3), and passed resolutions enabling potential bonding for repairs and agreed project scopes and estimated landowner costs.

Blue Earth County is taking significant steps to enhance water quality and drainage systems, approving innovative repair plans that could change the landscape of local waterways.

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #EnvironmentalSustainability #CitizenPortal #InfrastructureFunding

Residents urge Blue Earth County to document local costs of federal budget cuts and oppose aggressive ICE actions Several residents and faith leaders at the Feb. 17 Blue Earth County commissioners meeting urged the board to quantify how recent federal budget changes and increased ICE activity are affecting local services, and asked the county to publicly advocate to Congress and use county authority to protect residents.

Local residents and faith leaders are sounding the alarm at the Blue Earth County Board meeting, demanding action against federal budget cuts and aggressive ICE activities that threaten community safety and services.

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #BlueEarthCountyFamilies

Blue Earth County approves repair hearing, contract awards and fund advance for drainage systems Blue Earth County’s drainage authority set repair and redetermination hearings, approved a ditch repair contract, and advanced $10.07 million from capital to ditch funds to cover deficits; the board also adjusted a joint-ditch assessment and set a March hearing for Ditch 63.

Blue Earth County is taking significant steps to address drainage issues, approving crucial repairs and a multi-million dollar fund advance to ensure the health of its public systems.

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #PublicInfrastructure #CitizenPortal #EnvironmentalManagement

County updates bridge projects, dam removal work and federal funding pursuits Public works told the board the Cassaw 9 bridge faces rising steel costs and a funding gap; TKDA and county staff seek additional federal funds. Staff also reported coordination with FERC and FEMA on dam reporting, license surrender and grant constraints affecting private-property stabilization.

Blue Earth County is tackling major infrastructure challenges, from bridge replacements to dam removals, while navigating a $12 million funding shortfall.

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #InfrastructureUpdates #CitizenPortal #FederalFunding #BlueEarthCountyPublicWorks

Mankato residents describe fear and ask county to act after ICE enforcement at community center Two public commenters described a Jan. 15 enforcement action in a community center parking lot and urged the board to use its platform: one recounted community trauma and local healing efforts, the other urged the board to call for ICE to leave Mankato and to provide public information on rights.

Mankato residents are reeling from a recent ICE enforcement action, calling on local leaders to take a stand for community safety and support.

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CommunitySupport #MankatoCommunity #ImmigrationRights #PublicSafety #CitizenPortal

Blue Earth County seeks HUD transfer of underutilized vouchers to preserve regional housing support County EDA staff told the board that the South Central Multi‑County HRA is seeking to transfer underused Housing Choice Vouchers; Blue Earth County asked the board to approve a resolution and send a letter to HUD to request assignment of the vouchers to local agencies to prevent permanent loss in the region.

Blue Earth County is taking action to secure vital Housing Choice Vouchers that could otherwise be lost, ensuring continued support for families in need.

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CommunityDevelopment #HousingSupport #BlueEarthCountyHousing #PublicPolicy #CitizenPortal

Board forwards Minnesota River Mankato watershed plan to Board of Water and Solar Resources and adopts contingent resolution The board voted to submit the Minnesota River Mankato comprehensive watershed plan — developed by a multi-county and multi-city partnership with Houston Engineering — to the Board of Water and Solar Resources for review and to adopt the plan contingent on that agency’s approval.

The Minnesota River Mankato watershed plan is set for a crucial review, aiming to tackle pressing environmental issues and enhance local water quality.

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #EnvironmentalSustainability #BlueEarthCounty #WaterResourceManagement #CommunityPartnerships

Bridge change order approved and Rapidan Dam update shows $11.5M funding gap The board approved a $103,902.96 change order for State Project 007609015 (CSH 9 bridge design). Staff updated the board on Rapidan Dam and the County State Highway 9 bridge, reporting a $33.8M estimated total cost versus $22.3M currently allocated, leaving an $11.5M shortfall and noting FHWA requested a 90% cost estimate to consider additional funding.

The board has approved a crucial change order for the County State Highway 9 bridge, but an alarming $11.5 million funding gap looms over the project!

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CommunityEngagement #BlueEarthCountyBridges #FederalFunding #CitizenPortal #InfrastructureDevelopment

Board approves public-housing budgets, greenlights public housing capital fund and updates housing trust projects Blue Earth County approved 2026 public housing operating and voucher budgets, closed a public hearing on the 2026 Public Housing Capital Fund (no public comment) and received updates on Homestead Apartments flood damage and Trellis supportive housing funding concerns.

Big changes are coming to Blue Earth County's housing landscape with the approval of crucial budgets and a new capital fund aimed at improving living conditions for residents.

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CommunitySupport #PublicHousing #AffordableHousing #BlueEarthCountyHousing

Blue Earth County certifies $51.9 million levy, adopts 2026 budget Blue Earth County Board certified a $51,901,870 property tax levy for 2026 (an 8.5% increase over 2025) and approved the county’s 2026 budget after multiple work sessions and a truth-in-taxation hearing.

Blue Earth County just certified a whopping $51.9 million property tax levy, marking an 8.5% increase for 2026—what does this mean for residents?

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CommunityPlanning #TaxationTransparency #PublicFinance #CitizenPortal #BlueEarthCountyBudget

Blue Earth County selects consultant for Rapid and Dam EAW review; Bolton and Mink recommended County staff recommended and the board approved entering an agreement with Bolton and Mink to review the Environmental Assessment Worksheet for the Rapid and Dam removal project; the proposed fee listed in the packet was $39,910.

Blue Earth County has taken a significant step towards the removal of the Rapid and Dam by selecting Bolton and Mink for crucial environmental assessment services.

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #PublicComment #BlueEarthCountyEnvironment #DamRemoval #EnvironmentalAssessment

Blue Earth County establishes $250,000 septic loan program to address noncompliant systems The county approved a revolving loan program with an initial $250,000 allocation to finance repairs for noncompliant septic systems countywide; staff forecast 10 projects annually with 10-year repayment terms recorded as property special assessments.

Blue Earth County is taking a big step to protect its lakes and wells by launching a $250,000 loan program to help homeowners fix noncompliant septic systems!

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #SustainableDevelopment #BlueEarthCountyEnvironment #EnvironmentalProtection

Blue Earth County approves opioid‑settlement spending including jail cell monitoring system Board reauthorized several opioid‑funded programs and approved $40,000 to install monitoring sensors in four intake jail cells (including five years of service) to detect presence and vital signs and alert staff for potential overdoses or other health emergencies.

Blue Earth County is taking a bold step to enhance inmate safety with a new $40,000 monitoring system designed to detect potential overdoses and health emergencies in jail cells.

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety #HealthMonitoring #BlueEarthCountyJailSafety

#FinstadWatch

Wanna bet that @RepFinstad did NOT like reading #MN01 #BlueEarthCounty Communicator article entitled "Driving Change : Introducing New Electric Fleet" ?

The truck "works exceptionally well" and is quieter.

#EVs don't produce harmful exhaust, which means #CleanAir for workers.

Blue Earth County Energy-Efficiency Project Lead Performers: Blue Earth County, MN; partners: Blue Earth County, MN; McKinstry

Wanna bet that #RepFinstad did NOT like reading the latest issue of the #BlueEarthCounty Communicator

"Powering Progress : Rooftop Solar Array" detailing how the #BidenAdministration approved funds to the #MN01 community to reduce energy use and support sustainability
www.energy.gov/eere/buildin...

Votes at a glance: Key approvals and motions from Blue Earth County board, Nov. 4, 2025 Summary of motions and board votes taken on Nov. 4, 2025, including Ditch 16 repairs, Ditch 6063 bond order, audit and EFT authority, public‑works contracts and grants, sheriff contracts and fees, hazard mitigation plan adoption, HR actions, and withdrawal from the All Seasons Arena joint powers agreement.

Blue Earth County Board made significant strides on Nov. 4, 2025, approving crucial projects and contracts that will shape the community's future!

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety #BlueEarthCountyBoard #CommunityAccountability #InfrastructureDevelopment

County updates Rapidan Dam removal and Casa 9 bridge design; environmental clearances under way Public works staff reviewed technical progress on the Casa 9 bridge replacement and Rapidan Dam removal, including foundation design choices, environmental reviews and a recommendation that corrosion‑resistant rebar be considered to extend bridge life.

Blue Earth County is making strides on the Casa 9 bridge replacement and Rapidan Dam removal, with innovative designs and environmental reviews underway to ensure a sustainable future!

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety #BlueEarthCountyPublicWorks

Blue Earth County approves Great River Energy 69 kV transmission reroute across McPherson and Decoria townships The county board approved PC 23-25, a three-segment 69-kilovolt transmission line reroute proposed by Great River Energy that county planners and the planning commission recommended for approval after staff reported no concerns.

Great River Energy's new 69-kilovolt transmission line reroute has just been approved, promising enhanced reliability and efficiency for Blue Earth County!

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety #EnergyReliability #BlueEarthCountyTransmission

Board approves human services contracts for youth crisis stabilization, adult clinic funding and SNAP employment support; staff outline rising caseloads Blue Earth County approved three human services action items: a Woodland Centers contract for youth crisis-stabilization services with sharply higher per-diem rates, a psych-formula allocation up to $500,000 for the county mental health center, and a reduced SNAP employment-support contract ($2,700). Staff also presented informational reports on in

Blue Earth County takes crucial steps to address youth crisis stabilization and rising mental health needs, amidst significant funding changes and increasing caseloads.

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #MentalHealthSupport #BlueEarthCountyHumanServices

Blue Earth County Approves Updated Repairs for County Ditch 89 After Increased Costs County officials authorize repairs for Ditch 89 following costly damage assessment and public hearing.

The Blue Earth County Board faces tough choices as they balance budget constraints with community needs, all while aiming to keep property taxes low.

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #InfrastructureRepair #CommunityInput #BlueEarthCountyTaxpayers #FiscalResponsibility

County Board approves financing plan for public housing conversion Board authorizes HUD financing plan for 56 public housing unit conversions under RAD.

Big changes are coming to Blue Earth County's public housing as the Board of Commissioners approves a bold financing plan to enhance stability and improve living conditions for residents!

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #BlueEarthCountyHousing #PublicHousing

Blue Earth County awards federal contracts for highway and park projects Commissioners approve contracts for slope repair, safety improvements, and annual public works reports.

Blue Earth County is making strides in infrastructure with major highway repairs, safety improvements, and park enhancements—transforming our community for the better!

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety #BlueEarthCountyParks #CommunityResources

Blue Earth County Board approves petition for County Ditch 16 and 35 improvements County Board finalizes hearings on petitions for County Ditch improvements and acreage adjustments.

The Blue Earth County Board took decisive action to improve local drainage systems, ensuring better management of water resources and addressing the needs of its agricultural community.

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #InfrastructureImprovements #WaterManagement

Minnesota Counties Face Tax Increase Due to Medicaid and SNAP Changes YouTube video by Pop Culture Insights

#FinstadWatch

I expect #PropertyTaxes in #BlueEarthCounty #MN01 to go UP $100 thanks to @repfinstad.bsky.social support for #BigBeautifulBill

#BlueEarth would need to increase its property tax levy by 4% to 6% just to cover the costs associated with the #SNAP benefits

youtu.be/I8ADu2oFh6I?...

Mankato EDA supports $250K for Community Land Trust housing initiative EDA allocates funds to support affordable housing through Community Land Trust in Mankato.

Blue Earth County is taking major steps toward affordable housing, with a new initiative set to build homes for families in need!

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #BlueEarthCountyHousing #CommunityDevelopment #HomeownershipAccess #AffordableHousing

Blue Earth County Commissioners approve County Ditch 5 extension and planning projects Commissioners finalize County Ditch 5 petition and approve three subdivision proposals.

Blue Earth County Commissioners have taken significant steps in managing local resources by approving the extension of County Ditch 5 and three new subdivision projects!

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CommunityDevelopment #CitizenPortal #BlueEarthCountyCommunity #ZoningApprovals

County Board approves $30M bond increase for housing and community services Board increases bond limit to $30M to support housing and community development programs.

Blue Earth County's Board of Commissioners just approved a monumental increase in the bonding limit to $30 million, paving the way for transformative housing and community development projects!

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #BlueEarthCountyHousing #HousingInitiatives

Minnesota budget discussions raise concerns over PILT cuts and county tax implications Officials discuss potential PILT cuts and their effects on county budgeting in Minnesota.

Budget cuts in Minnesota threaten to raise local property taxes by over a thousand dollars, leaving Blue Earth County officials scrambling for solutions.

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#BlueEarthCounty #MN #CitizenPortal #BlueEarthCountyTaxes #LocalGovernance #TaxationIssues #BudgetTransparency