Crow Wing County authorizes RFP for medical-examiner transport; sheriff announces VSET grant and staffing plans

The Crow Wing County Board on Nov. 12 authorized the sheriff’s office to issue a request for proposals (RFP) to replace medical-examiner transport services after the current contractor sold his business.

The sheriff (present at the meeting) said the existing contractor, who had served the county for more than a decade, sold the business to an employee; the county transferred the existing contract but wants to solicit proposals after roughly 10 years of the same service. County staff explained that because this is a services contract, the county is using an RFP process so it can evaluate proposals on qualifications, insurance and overall service, not solely on price. The county announced proposals will be accepted through 4:00 p.m. on Dec. 12.

Separately, the sheriff announced the county’s application to the state Violent Crime Enforcement Team (VSET) program had been approved; the VSET funding will support hiring a records specialist to manage VSET reporting, evidence handling and audits. County staff said that position was included in the 2026 preliminary budget contingent on receiving VSET funds; with the award approved, the county will proceed with the hire.

A motion by Commissioner Franzen (seconded by Commissioner Lee) authorized the sheriff to solicit RFPs; the motion passed by roll call. The board expressed that the new owner of the previous contract is eligible to submit a proposal but that the county will evaluate all submissions.

What’s next: Proposals for medical-examiner transport services are due to the sheriff’s office by Dec. 12 at 4:00 p.m. County staff will review proposals and return to the board with a recommendation as required by procurement rules.