Western Probation Services outlines delivery systems, staffing and funding for five‑county region

Anthony Frisch, director of Western Probation Services, told the board that his office operates under a joint powers agreement covering Big Stone, Grant, Traverse, Stevens and Wilkin counties and that the region provides supervision for gross‑misdemeanor, misdemeanor and juvenile caseloads. "We are operating under a joint commerce agreement between the counties of Big Stone, Grant, Traverse, Stevens, and Wilkin," Frisch said, and added that his office currently employs two full‑time agents and a support specialist and that he serves as an active agent.

Frisch walked commissioners through the state’s three delivery systems — the Department of Corrections (DOC), county probation offices (CPO/CPO), and Community Corrections Act (CCA) counties — and said the funding formula put in place several years ago has left his five‑county region with a small net county obligation. "Right now, my department within the 5 counties, we're essentially self funded through the state," he said. He warned that several counties have moved from CPO to CCA or DOC delivery in recent years and that continued transitions could reduce the footprint and legislative voice of CPO counties. Frisch emphasized operational concerns such as DOC’s difficulty retaining felony agents in greater‑Minnesota placements and the unpredictability of juvenile placement and auto‑replacement costs, which he estimated can run "about 10 to 15,000 a month" per multi‑month placement in some cases.

Frisch said the office is placing renewed emphasis on prevention through a school‑based "preventionist" who will work in the five largest local schools and support counselors and staff. He offered to provide additional information and left contact cards for follow‑up. The board did not take formal action on funding during the briefing.