Commission agrees to explore partnership for MPCA grant to build a regional composting facility

Bryce Hogan and a colleague identified as Fred, representing the Klay County Climate Action Group, proposed seeking a Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) grant—awards up to $2 million—to establish a commercial food‑composting facility serving large institutional generators and residents. Hogan framed the proposal as both a climate action and a landfill‑life extension strategy: "Food composting prevents powerful methane emissions from landfills" and yields compost that can be resold locally, he said.

Fred described operational examples (Pope‑Douglas County facility) and said the group is pursuing grant funding and technical assistance; he noted the MPCA grant requires a 20% local match, which was discussed in the meeting as roughly $400,000 (20% of a $2M award). He also explained that a composting facility must achieve high‑temperature processing to eliminate pathogens and that heavy‑metal contamination would prevent resale and likely require landfill disposal.

Commission member Jeff moved and the group voted to have the Casclay Food Partners’ financial health committee explore partnering with Klay County Climate Action Group and county solid waste on the MPCA grant application. Members discussed letters of support, education/outreach contributions, and matchmaking for equipment or donated land to meet match requirements. The motion passed by voice vote; transcript records the passage but does not list a roll‑call tally.

The presenters and members encouraged letters of interest/support and suggested commissioners and partner organizations contact county leadership or the solid‑waste director to indicate local support ahead of the MPCA deadline referenced in discussion.