Board approves $2,001.86 cost‑share for well sealing and agrees steps to close related grants

The Whitewater Joint Powers Board approved a cost‑share payment for a well‑sealing project and considered options to close or extend remaining grants as the board transitions.

Staff reported that a well‑sealing project in Olmsted County for Ron Mulholland was complete; the contract amount and invoice were presented and the board approved the cost‑share payment of $2,001.86 (75% of the sealing cost) by voice vote. Members moved to have staff issue the check and finalize the cost‑share payment.

Separately, the board discussed whether to extend or close the Whitewater Well‑sealing grant. Staff noted the grant currently has unearned revenue (an upfront payment of $15,000 on a $30,000 grant) and that closing the grant before year‑end would simplify the wind‑down and could reduce the likelihood of needing an audit for 2026. Staff said an amendment is prepared that would extend the grant to 12/31/2026 if the board chooses to keep it active; that amendment could later transfer fiscal administration to another fiscal agent if partners agree.

The board also discussed the Local Advisory Team (LAT) grant (supports outreach and nutrient management work) and identified potential administrators in partner SWCDs. Members asked staff to coordinate with MDA and partner SWCDs to close or transfer grants in a way that avoids unnecessary audit obligations and preserves local program continuity.

What happens next: staff will issue the approved cost‑share payment, prepare paperwork to close or transfer the well‑sealing grant as directed, and coordinate with partner SWCDs and MDA on administration options for the LAT grant. The board approved the staff motion to close the well‑sealing activity and delegated follow‑up to staff.