Rice County renews two‑year guardianship contract and accepts small community donation

Rice County's board approved a two‑year contract renewal with Southern Minnesota Guardianship to provide successor guardianship services for four individuals petitioned through the courts. Megan Thomas of Adult Services told the board the 2026 cost is $9,600 and the 2027 cost is $9,840; the 2026 amount had been included in the county's 2026 budget.

Thomas said guardianship services are a mandated county responsibility for individuals who qualify (for example, those receiving medical assistance) and that the contract helps control costs and span of control. When asked how often guardians must make contact, staff said guardians are required to make at least monthly contacts (by phone, in person, or video), with more frequent contact when warranted for behavioral or medical concerns.

The board approved the contract by voice vote. Thomas also presented a $200 donation from First English Lutheran Church to Friendship House; she said the funds will help rent a venue (the Cathedral of Mercy?) for the annual mental health walk in May (the location was changed from last year's senior center). The board approved the donation.

Both actions were approved during the Adult Services section of the meeting; staff said the guardianship contract covers court‑appointed successor guardianships and is intended to limit county cost exposure.