County News

Olmsted County is exploring the possibility of bringing an “international clubhouse” mental health program to the area. As part of this process, we will be gathering input from the community through listening sessions.

Olmsted County is one of 11 counties participating in the Speaking of Cannabis campaign. This initiative aims to empower adults in Southeast Minnesota to share information with youth about the risks of cannabis use. 

New video now available: How property taxes work in Olmsted County.

Watch this short, easy-to-understand overview to learn how property values, budgets, and levies come together to create your tax bill and how you can stay informed and involved.

Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo is excited to host the We Are Water MN traveling exhibit from February 25 through April 20, 2026. This interactive exhibit invites visitors to explore the vital role water plays in our lives, our communities, and our environment. 

Did you know you can subscribe to receive Olmsted County news, and have it sent directly to your email inbox? When you subscribe, you can select to receive emails on specific topics of interest to you. 

Olmsted County offices will be closed Monday, February 16, 2026, in observance of Presidents Day. Regular business hours resume Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

This designation reflects Olmsted County’s commitment to producing a high-quality compost product through rigorous testing, monitoring, and quality control practices. 

Olmsted County has secured $2 million in federal funding to advance the design and environmental review of two planned interchanges along Trunk Highway 14 in Byron, marking a significant step toward improved safety and mobility.

Effective Saturday, February 21, 2026, the Southeast Regional Crisis Center (SERCC) will begin new service hours which will be 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week.

We are pleased to share some examples of progress in 2025 toward our strategic priorities in our Olmsted County Strategic Plan 2025 Progress Report.  

Olmsted County is exploring the possibility of bringing an “international clubhouse” mental health program to the area. The clubhouse model is an evidence-based, non-clinical approach that supports adults living with a mental health condition. It provides a space for community and purpose as well as access to employment, education, housing, and wellness supports. The model helps reduce isolation and reliance on higher cost services.

Olmsted County offices will be closed Monday, January 19, 2026 in observation of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Normal business hours will resume on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. 

Olmsted County Sheriff Kevin Torgerson has announced his retirement, sharing that he will not seek a fourth term in the 2026 election. His current term will conclude in January 2027, marking the end of a distinguished law enforcement career spanning more than four decades. 

Commissioner Dave Senjem shared these remarks during the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners meeting on January 6, 2026. 

Local daycare providers, families, and community members are invited to a free event to test chalk for lead at 2100 Campus Drive SE in Rochester.