The Scott County Board of Commissioners on Dec. 16 approved the county's 2026 legislative platform and capital bonding priorities, formalizing positions staff will carry to the state legislature.

Perry Mulcroin, Scott County fiber and legislative manager, outlined four policy priorities: (1) seek state solutions to mitigate SNAP and Medicaid cost shifts that would otherwise fall to counties, (2) modernize and streamline health and human services information systems, (3) support implementation and funding for the Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act, and (4) reduce the frequency of MNChoices reassessments for many recipients. "Without a solution based, partnership between the state and counties, these cost shifts will force counties to choose between cutting services or raising local property taxes," Mulcroin said.

The county also identified two capital investment priorities: a $5,500,000 state bond request to design and construct the Louisville segment of the Merriam Junction Trail (4.3 miles, elevated boardwalks over wetlands) and funding for 800 megahertz public safety radio equipment replacement in metropolitan counties (the ARMOR system). Mulcroin said the trail would complete a regional loop, improve nonmotorized connectivity and serve underserved neighborhoods; he described the radio request as necessary to replace aging backbone infrastructure that supports emergency services.

Commissioners discussed potential talking‑point adjustments — for example, the board asked staff to coordinate with partners and clarify positions on wetland replacement ratios raised at a recent conference — and agreed the platform materials and one‑page talking points can be updated by the chair and vice chair during the session. The board adopted resolution 2025‑294 by voice vote.

The platform formalizes Scott County's positions on funding, system modernization and local control ahead of the 2026 legislative session.