County discusses custodial staffing, HR approach to COLA and repair needs for historic courthouse cabin

County HR and courthouse staff updated commissioners on custodial coverage and suggested approaches to distributing cost-of-living adjustments; commissioners also directed staff to examine repair options for a historic courthouse cabin that needs roof and interior work. HR staff reported the county budget includes funding for a custodian position ($25,000 at an estimated $20/hour plus expenses) and that current custodian Hannah has been doing substantial work, including some days off; commissioners asked staff to confirm whether Hannah wishes to continue and to advertise a part-time vacancy if she does not. HR recommended considering a fixed-dollar COLA allocation across employees as an alternative to strictly percentage-based increases, arguing a set-dollar approach could be fairer to lower-paid staff. Commissioners discussed the proposal but approved a 2% COLA for the budget (see separate article) and left open the mechanics for implementation. Separately, county staff said Wayne asked for funds to repair the historic courthouse cabin — reportedly one of the county's earliest buildings — and staff will check for potential grant opportunities and consult the Steele County Historical Society. Staff took photos and will follow up on architectural and grant feasibility ahead of the county centennial next summer.