The Rice County Board of Commissioners today declared a State of Emergency related to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.  County Administrator Sara Folsted told commissioners they were covered under the Governor's declaration saying, "This is kind of for administrative purposes."

The public could listen to the meeting by phone or computer. I chose computer and other than the fact that not everyone's microphone sounded like it was turned on there were no problems.

Roll call votes were required due to the remote public access on all orders of business.  That was really the only change.

Social Services Director Mark Shaw requested approval of a respite grant with the Minnesota Department of Human Services.  Shaw pointed out 5 years ago the 10 counties involved in the grant received approximately 19 thousand dollars a month and this grant was for approximately 6 thousand dollars a month.

Commissioners unanimously approved an off-site gambling permit for Elko Baseball Club, Incorporated for April 23rd at the Ranchero Supper Club in Webster.

A resolution was also unanimously approved authorizing the county to provide sponsorship of trails operated by the Faribo Sno-Glo Club for the 2020-2021 winter season.

Commissioners will be holding a joint meeting with the Faribault City Council at 6:00 p.m. this evening for a public hearing regarding a proposed tax abatement and business subsidies for Trystar of Faribault.

The meeting will be conducted virtually this evening with Faribault City Council members all participating remotely.

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