The Dakota County Board of Commissioners meeting on September 9, 2025, covered several important topics, including updates on health services, watershed management, and solid waste management initiatives.

One significant discussion involved the upcoming presentation by Julia Cortina, the legislative director for human services and education at the National Association of Counties (NACO). She will address federal changes related to health and human services at the Association of Minnesota Counties policy conference.

The board also reviewed the Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Support, where they approved the budget and released the 2026-2035 watershed management plan. This extensive 220-page document has been in development for several months, and the board encouraged public review and comments.

Additionally, the Workforce Development Board provided updates, noting that the House Appropriations Committee would meet to discuss funding for the federal Department of Labor and related agencies for 2026.

Looking ahead, the board highlighted the solid waste management plan, which will be discussed in committee next week and is expected to be on the consent agenda later in the month. Commissioner Nikki Stewart emphasized the extensive work that has gone into this plan, which received no concerns from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.

The meeting also introduced a recycling ambassador program aimed at engaging the public in recycling efforts. Interested individuals can find more information on the Dakota County website.

In closing, the board acknowledged the upcoming 24th anniversary of September 11 and encouraged community members to share ideas for improvement, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in addressing local challenges.