Photo by Charlene Corson Selbee
The Houston County Board of Commissioners approved the county’s new Special Use Vehicle Ordinance during its regular meeting on July 22. Sheriff Brian Swedberg presented the ordinance, which was adopted following a roll call vote. The measure passed with only one dissenting vote from Commissioner Cindy Wright.
Sheriff Brian Swedberg noted that both Winona and Fillmore counties have similar ordinances, and there is no fee to obtain a permit. Permits can be acquired online or in person at the sheriff’s office. Additionally, individuals who already hold a permit from another county do not need to obtain a separate one from Houston County.
Commissioner Wright explained her decision to vote no, stating, “I appreciate all the efforts that have been put into this and the work moving it forward. I understand it and maybe we need it. But I’m voting no because I still think that it’s been brought forward for a minority of people, and it’s affecting the majority of drivers on the road. But I will support the ordinance, of course.”
Commissioners Eric Johnson and Schuldt explained their support, referencing the April 1 through August 1 right-of-way restriction for special use vehicles as a key reason for their affirmative votes.
Chairman Eric Johnson called the meeting to order at 9 a.m., with the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioners in attendance included Chairman Johnson, Cindy Wright, Kurt Zehnder, Bob Schuldt and Greg Myhre.
The board approved the agenda and July 15 meeting minutes; Commissioner Schuldt abstained from voting on the minutes due to his absence.
Representatives from the Houston County Historical Society presented their annual report. President Shirley Johnson shared highlights from the past year, including the replacement of the foundation and flooring in the historic Presbyterian Church. She also noted sidewalk repairs, and the installation of new automatic doors aimed at improving safety and accessibility.
Johnson reflected on the group’s history, “It’ll be 65 years since the society was formed. We started with about $40, and you can see what we have accomplished in 65 years. It’s a great facility.”
Vice president Deb Wray spoke about the ongoing country school project and encouraged community members to share stories and photos. Commissioners chimed in by briefly sharing their memories.
Board member Janene Hosch has been working on new exhibits for the Historical Society, including a display of 1950s and 60s vintage clothing and another featuring big band performances that once entertained residents in Caledonia and across Houston County.
Before approving the consent agenda, Commissioner Myhre requested a discussion on the first two items. Human Resources officer Brent Parker and Sheriff Brian Swedberg were on hand to answer questions about the personnel changes. After discussion, the board approved the consent agenda, which included the following items:
• Reclassification of Holly Gleason from Sheriff’s Office Admin Assistant, B22, Step 8 to B23, Step 7, retroactive to June 15, 2025.
• Reclassification of Lauren Felten from Sheriff’s Office Admin Assistant, B22, Step 3 to B23, Step 2, also retroactive to June 15, 2025.
• Change in status for Tami Triplet to 0.15 FTE as Public Health and Human Services Department Collections Officer until the position is filled, while continuing her 0.8 FTE with the county attorney’s office as legal assistant.
• Approval of a peddler license for Mariya Zhukova, who is participating in the Southwestern Advantage Summer Program sponsored by Global Educational Concepts.
In other business, the board approved the 2026 Wildcat fees, as recommended by the Wildcat Committee, and authorized the payment of county bills, as presented by Carol Lapham. Following the commissioner reports, the meeting was adjourned at 10:41 a.m.