January 13, 2026

Special Public Meeting

6:30 PM – 7:45 PM    

Present at the meeting All Elected Official and Members of the Public

Commissioner Chair Kevin Wineteer started the meeting by updating everyone on the condition of the Courthouse referring to the Inspection done by Stahly Engineering. Kevin also talked about the FSA Building that was available for Purchase for $385,000 plus costs for remodeling and adding on to fit our needs. The revolving loan fund was discussed for potential funds to build on for a Community Center/Court room. Kevin then opened the floor for questions and thoughts on new Courthouse.

Talking Points 

Possibility of closing Ryegate School and combining with Lavina. (this was brought up multiple times, these are questions that should be brought to the School Board as they are their own entity and County Government cannot make those decisions.)

Can we Reinforce the current building? Unfortunately, we cannot per the Structural Engineers

Questions were asked about the condition of the FSA building; the building is to be inspected

next week.

It was asked if FSA would be able to stay where they are at, it is our intent to continue renting them space.

Cost of tear down – Brownfield assessment to be done in the following weeks, at that point we will have a better idea of what will be entailed for removal. Possibility of selling building and purchaser to tear down.

Mill Levies were mentioned: we are discussing doing a long-term mill levy. The Mill Levy would be set at a set dollar amount per year and the mills would adjust up and down to meet the dollar amount.

The general consensus at this time is to finish getting the total cost and put on the ballot in June.

Recording of Meeting