Richland County BOC approves contracts, appointments and $5.43 million in payroll and expenses

At its Sept. 2 session the Richland County Board of Commissioners approved a series of routine items including contracts, appointments and the county’s payroll and expenses for August 2025.

Jill Breuer presented a proposed one-year communications contract with NDSCS, which she described as "similar to last year's, not much has changed." The board approved the one-year contract unanimously and appointed Brett Lambrecht as the backup for SE CRIB. The board also approved a gaming permit for the Wahpeton FFA Alumni Association and appointed Valerie Nelson to the RSR Human Service Zone Board; both actions passed by unanimous vote.

Sheriff Ruhl told commissioners the one-year jail food service agreement will increase by 5 percent, which he said "equates to approximately eight cents per plate." He also reported the county applied for the Back the Blue Grant and was awarded $1,384 per licensed officer.

Jesse Sedler of the Highway Department reported the Helendale Bridge project is on hold while a survey is completed but should restart soon; he said a traffic study will likely be necessary to pursue a four-way stop at CR 81 and CR 2 and that he will investigate that process. Committee reports were brief and included Buildings & Grounds noting a delayed drain tile project expected to start mid-September and a Weed Board update that township roads work should finish in mid-September.

The commission approved payroll totaling $846,903.97 and expenses totaling $4,585,730.67 for August 2025, for combined payroll and expenses of $5,432,634.64. The meeting adjourned at 9:17 a.m.