County News
Read the latest news from Olmsted County
New video - Discover Graham Park!
New video - Discover Graham Park!
Explore Olmsted County’s vibrant and versatile gathering space – Graham Park! This video walks viewers through Graham Park’s expansive grounds, showcasing its diverse facilities and how they are used.
Olmsted County offices closed November 28-29, 2024
Olmsted County offices closed November 28-29, 2024
Regular business hours will resume Monday, December 2, 2024.
Olmsted County extends food scrap drop-off program through 2025
Olmsted County extends food scrap drop-off program through 2025
Anyone interested in participating in the food scrap program can purchase a kit online
Olmsted County updates rules for cannabis businesses
Olmsted County updates rules for cannabis businesses
Olmsted County has updated its rules for cannabis businesses to create clear procedures by March 1, 2025, when licensed cannabis sales start in Minnesota.
New videos highlight Drug and Alcohol Response Team’s impact in fighting substance abuse
New videos highlight Drug and Alcohol Response Team’s impact in fighting substance abuse
These videos highlight the team’s impact since its launch in November 2023.
Minnesota Transportation Alliance honors former Olmsted County Division Administrator Kaye Bieniek
Public Works Director Ben Johnson also elected to alliance’s board of directors
Minnesota Transportation Alliance honors former Olmsted County Division Administrator Kaye Bieniek
Public Works Director Ben Johnson also elected to alliance’s board of directors
The Minnesota Transportation Alliance is a statewide coalition of organizations advocating for a safe and effective transportation system that works for all Minnesotans.
Olmsted County property tax homestead notice
This will affect your 2025 property taxes and eligibility for a property tax refund
Olmsted County property tax homestead notice
This will affect your 2025 property taxes and eligibility for a property tax refund
You must apply on or before December 31, 2024.
New mobile crisis response process coming in 2025
New mobile crisis response process coming in 2025
Prior to 2025, Olmsted County was included in a partnership to provide a regional response for mental health crisis services. Effective January 1, 2025, Olmsted County will have its own mobile crisis response process provided by the county’s Crisis Response team (previously known as the Diversity, Equity, and Community Outreach team or DECO).
Olmsted County residents encouraged to apply for Restorative Practices Advisory Committee (RPAC)
Apply by 11:59 p.m. on November 25, 2024
Olmsted County residents encouraged to apply for Restorative Practices Advisory Committee (RPAC)
Apply by 11:59 p.m. on November 25, 2024
Currently, $8 million in grant funding is available to support restorative practices initiatives. To qualify, nonprofits and programs must be in counties with active Restorative Practices Advisory Committees.
Attention rental property owners: 4(d) Affordable Housing Incentive Program application deadline is January 31, 2025
Attention rental property owners: 4(d) Affordable Housing Incentive Program application deadline is January 31, 2025
This voluntary program helps rental property owners obtain property tax reductions while preserving affordable housing for income-qualified renters in our community.
Olmsted County offices closed Monday, November 11, 2024
Olmsted County offices closed Monday, November 11, 2024
Olmsted County offices will be closed Monday, November 11, 2024, in observance of Veterans Day. Regular business hours will resume Tuesday, November 12, 2024.
County canvassing board – Reviewing and certifying 2024 General Election results
County canvassing board – Reviewing and certifying 2024 General Election results
Election results become official only after being reviewed and certified by a canvassing board. This review is open to the public.
Amy Rauchwarter to fill deputy administrator role for Olmsted County’s Health, Housing, and Human Services division
Amy Rauchwarter to fill deputy administrator role for Olmsted County’s Health, Housing, and Human Services division
Rauchwarter has been with Olmsted County for 24 years and is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW).
Vote in the November 5 General Election
Vote in the November 5 General Election
Olmsted County and the City of Rochester encourage all eligible voters to participate.
Tony Hill to fill division administrator role for Olmsted County’s Physical Development division
Tony Hill to fill division administrator role for Olmsted County’s Physical Development division
Tony Hill will report to the deputy administrator of Physical Development Pete Giesen and will begin his new role on November 18, 2024.
CredibleMind: Helping you prioritize your mental health
CredibleMind: Helping you prioritize your mental health
Taking care of your mental health is important, whether you're dealing with school, work, or life at home. CredibleMind is a mental health resource available to people in Olmsted County, and it can help you learn more about your mental well-being and find ways to improve it.
Olmsted County Public Health Services and Cradle 2 Career earn leadership award
Olmsted County Public Health Services and Cradle 2 Career earn leadership award
Olmsted County Public Health Services’ Family Home Visiting program and Cradle 2 Career have won the 2024 Maternal and Child Health Betty Hubbard Leadership Award at the community level. This award, created in 1990 by the Minnesota Department of Health, was named after Hubbard, who worked to improve health for women and children.
Olmsted County honors veterans with “Operation Green Light”
Olmsted County honors veterans with “Operation Green Light”
Olmsted County is proud to once again participate in Operation Green Light, shining a beacon of hope and support for veterans.
Temporary department closures for staff development – October 29, 2024
Temporary department closures for staff development – October 29, 2024
On Tuesday, October 29, 2024, employees from Olmsted County Health, Housing, and Human Services will be attending a staff development event from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Counties to address placement options for youth with complex needs
Olmsted County participating in regional approach
Counties to address placement options for youth with complex needs
Olmsted County participating in regional approach
Hennepin County is coordinating a regional workgroup charged with developing a plan for youth placement options. Participating counties include Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Ramsey, Scott and Washington in the metro region, plus Olmsted County in southeast Minnesota.
New video! Building strong families with Olmsted County’s Family Home Visiting Program
New video! Building strong families with Olmsted County’s Family Home Visiting Program
Our new video – Building strong families with Olmsted County’s Family Home Visiting Program – highlights the personalized care and support provided by our public health nurses.
Olmsted County Vital Records office closed one hour on October 24, 2024
Olmsted County Vital Records office closed one hour on October 24, 2024
On Thursday, October 24, 2024, the Olmsted County Vital Records team will be attending a meeting from 8 to 9 a.m. The Vital Records office inside the Olmsted County Government Center will be closed during this time.
Olmsted County shares update on opioid settlement fund use
Olmsted County shares update on opioid settlement fund use
Over the past year, Olmsted County has made significant strides in addressing the opioid crisis using opioid settlement funds. Olmsted County’s strategies have included improving education and prevention efforts and supporting programs that help people get into treatment quickly for substance use.
Mobilizing Olmsted Voices for Equity (M.O.V.E.) community council: First meetings occurring this month
Mobilizing Olmsted Voices for Equity (M.O.V.E.) community council: First meetings occurring this month
In May 2024, Olmsted County announced the launch of a new community council – Mobilizing Olmsted Voices for Equity or M.O.V.E. At that time, Olmsted County began the recruitment process; now, the county is pleased to announce that 25 members have joined M.O.V.E., and the first meetings of the community council are occurring later this month.
Direct balloting for November 2024 General Election begins October 18, 2024
Direct balloting for November 2024 General Election begins October 18, 2024
Direct balloting allows voters to insert their ballots directly into a tabulator at the direct balloting location.
Public Accuracy Test for November 2024 General Election
Public Accuracy Test for November 2024 General Election
This test demonstrates the accuracy of the computer program and voting system that will be used during the election.
LGBTQIA+ resources now on CredibleMind
LGBTQIA+ resources now on CredibleMind
A new hub for LGBTQIA+ resources is now available on Olmsted County’s CredibleMind platform. This hub is a one-stop shop where LGBTQIA+ residents, their families, and others in the community can find helpful, safe, and inclusive resources.
Register to be a donor for the 2024 Olmsted County Adopt a Family program!
Register to be a donor for the 2024 Olmsted County Adopt a Family program!
Adopt a Family is a meaningful way to make a direct impact during the holidays. Your generosity can bring smiles and a sense of community to families in need.
Your feedback needed! Take the 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment survey
Your feedback needed! Take the 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment survey
On October 1, 2024, the Community Health Needs Assessment survey was delivered to more than 4,000 Olmsted County households. This survey helps determine the greatest health needs of the county and find ways to improve residents’ health.
Public Works Service Center expansion now complete
Public Works Service Center expansion now complete
This expansion will enhance customer service and operations by providing larger, more versatile spaces for meetings, collaboration, and supporting residents.
Sign up for Olmsted County news sent to your email!
Sign up for Olmsted County news sent to your email!
Did you know that 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.
Pop-up WIC clinics expand access to healthy foods
Pop-up WIC clinics expand access to healthy foods
Families interested in learning more or scheduling an appointment at the OMC pop-up WIC clinics can contact Olmsted County WIC at 507-328-7555.
Olmsted County sets preliminary levy for 2025
Olmsted County sets preliminary levy for 2025
The 2025 preliminary property tax levy for Olmsted County and the Housing & Redevelopment Authority (HRA) combined totals $137,862,741. This will be funded with county and HRA property taxes of $132,690,673 and $5,172,068, respectively.
Travis Gransee selected as new Olmsted County administrator
Travis Gransee selected as new Olmsted County administrator
The Olmsted County Board of Commissioners has selected Travis Gransee to fill the county administrator role effective October 7, 2024.
Voting absentee in the November General Election
Voting absentee in the November General Election
Beginning Friday, September 20, 2024, eligible voters in Minnesota can vote absentee for the November 5, 2024, General Election.
Apply for an open Olmsted County advisory board position today!
Apply for an open Olmsted County advisory board position today!
Olmsted County will be interviewing candidates for open advisory board positions during the month of October 2024. Currently, Olmsted County has openings on the following advisory boards/commissions: Parks Commission, Public Health Services Advisory Board, and the Zoning Board of Adjustment. If interested, apply today!
Olmsted County encourages veterans to explore PACT Act benefits
Olmsted County encourages veterans to explore PACT Act benefits
Olmsted County Veteran Services offers free assistance to veterans and their families in understanding and applying for these benefits.
Participate in National Voter Registration Day!
Register on September 17, 2024
Participate in National Voter Registration Day!
Register on September 17, 2024
This annual event, observed across the United States, is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of voter registration and encouraging residents to participate in the democratic process.
Olmsted County maintains high credit ratings from Moody’s
Olmsted County maintains high credit ratings from Moody’s
These credit ratings equate to significant taxpayer savings by lowering the cost of borrowing for the county.
Learn about the Family Acceptance Project
Supporting LGBTQIA+ youth in Olmsted County
Learn about the Family Acceptance Project
Supporting LGBTQIA+ youth in Olmsted County
Olmsted County Public Health Services is excited to share the Family Acceptance Project (FAP) with our community. This important initiative helps families support their LGBTQIA+ children.
Olmsted County offices closed Monday, September 2, 2024
Olmsted County offices closed Monday, September 2, 2024
Olmsted County offices will be closed Monday, September 2, 2024, in observance of Labor Day. Regular business hours resume Tuesday, September 3, 2024. Olmsted County parks will remain open.
Become a crisis line volunteer!
Become a crisis line volunteer!
As a crisis line volunteer, you will provide crucial emotional support, referrals, and information to those in need.
Property Records and Licensing closing for several hours on September 4
Property Records and Licensing closing for several hours on September 4
Olmsted County Property Records and Licensing (PRL) employees will be attending a staff development event for a portion of the day.
Important reminders from Olmsted County and the City of Rochester during times of excessive heat
Important reminders from Olmsted County and the City of Rochester during times of excessive heat
With the health and safety of community members a top priority and due to extremely hot weather expected today and tomorrow, the City of Rochester and Olmsted County remind residents of ways to beat the heat.
Any Path Home: Learn more at August 20, 2024 county board meeting
Reminder of documentary screening tonight!
Any Path Home: Learn more at August 20, 2024 county board meeting
Reminder of documentary screening tonight!
Any Path Home is a coalition of 10 community agencies working to assess needs and develop strategies to address homelessness and ensure everyone has a home in our community. Representatives from the Any Path Home coalition will be providing an update on this work at the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners meeting on August 20, 2024 at 6 p.m.
Community car seat check event on August 21, 2024
Community car seat check event on August 21, 2024
Olmsted County Public Health Services will hold a Community Car Seat Check event on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at Graham Park. This event, taking place at Crawford Hall, helps parents and caregivers ensure their children are riding safely in the car.
Public comment sought on county’s Hazard Mitigation Plan by August 27, 2024
Public comment sought on county’s Hazard Mitigation Plan by August 27, 2024
Olmsted County has completed an updated draft of its Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) and is now seeking public feedback. All county residents, as well as other interested agency or organizational stakeholders, are strongly encouraged to review and offer feedback by August 27, 2024.
Vote in the August 13 primary election
Vote in the August 13 primary election
Minnesota’s primary election is tomorrow, August 13, 2024. Olmsted County and the City of Rochester encourage all eligible voters to participate.
County canvassing board – Reviewing and certifying election results
County canvassing board – Reviewing and certifying election results
This board certifies votes for county-specific races, while federal, statewide, and multi-county races are certified by the state canvassing board.
2025-2028 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) open houses
2025-2028 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) open houses
The Transporation Improvement Program (TIP) outlines federally funded transportation improvements in the Rochester-Olmsted County metropolitan planning area.
Counties’ collaborative school-located immunization program
Counties’ collaborative school-located immunization program
Olmsted Medical Center, Mayo Clinic, Olmsted County Public Health Services, Dodge County Public Health, Goodhue County Public Health, and area private and public schools have teamed up to offer influenza vaccinations from September 16 through October 11, 2024.
Olmsted County board response to recent acts of racism and vandalism
Olmsted County board response to recent acts of racism and vandalism
Read the statement read by Board Chair Sheila Kiscaden on August 6, 2024.
Presidential Disaster Declaration for Olmsted County
Damage reports needed by August 9, 2024
Presidential Disaster Declaration for Olmsted County
Damage reports needed by August 9, 2024
Recent storms have resulted in a Presidential Disaster Declaration for Olmsted County. If you experienced storm damage, FEMA is requesting that you submit a damage report by 5 p.m. on Friday, August 9, 2024.
Olmsted County board caps cannabis retail business registrations at 14
Olmsted County board caps cannabis retail business registrations at 14
The Olmsted County Board of Commissioners amended its ordinance for using cannabis in public places and set a limit on the number of cannabis businesses. They will allow up to 14 cannabis businesses to register.
Any Path Home: A shared purpose that everyone has a home
Residents invited to a documentary screening on August 15, 2024
Any Path Home: A shared purpose that everyone has a home
Residents invited to a documentary screening on August 15, 2024
Any Path Home ensures that no matter the situation, there is a way for people experiencing homelessness to access housing and services. By uniting resources and efforts, Any Path Home will make it easier for those in need to find and use the services available.
Electric vehicle charging stations now available outside Olmsted County Government Campus buildings
Electric vehicle charging stations now available outside Olmsted County Government Campus buildings
Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are now available outside Olmsted County Government Campus buildings.
Direct balloting for August 2024 primary election begins Friday, July 26, 2024
Direct balloting for August 2024 primary election begins Friday, July 26, 2024
Direct balloting allows voters to insert their ballots directly into a tabulator at the direct balloting location.
County building construction at 2117 Campus Drive SE
County building construction at 2117 Campus Drive SE
This project will help improve water drainage on the exterior of the building and meet updated building codes.
Pete Giesen appointed as interim Olmsted County administrator
Pete Giesen appointed as interim Olmsted County administrator
At the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners meeting on July 16, 2024, the board appointed Pete Giesen as interim Olmsted County administrator. He will officially begin serving in this role on July 29, 2024. Heidi Welsch announced her resignation as county administrator on July 9, 2024. Her last day with the county will be July 26, 2024.
Public Accuracy Test for August 2024 primary election
Public Accuracy Test for August 2024 primary election
This process is open to the public and helps ensure equipment is functioning correctly.
Free water testing for vulnerable populations and funding for Southeastern Minnesota well owners
Free water testing for vulnerable populations and funding for Southeastern Minnesota well owners
Private well owners in Southeastern Minnesota can now receive free water testing kits and analysis. Funding will be prioritized to participants who have a financial hardship or if pregnant women or infants under the age of one live in their homes.
Heidi Welsch leaving Olmsted County administrator role
Transition plans underway
Heidi Welsch leaving Olmsted County administrator role
Transition plans underway
After 11 years of service to Olmsted County, County Administrator Heidi Welsch has announced she will be leaving Olmsted County to serve as Dakota County manager. She will be working with Olmsted County until the end of July.
Olmsted County offices closed Thursday, July 4, 2024
Olmsted County offices closed Thursday, July 4, 2024
Regular business hours resume Friday, July 5, 2024.
Olmsted County HRA Board awards construction bid for affordable housing development
Olmsted County HRA Board awards construction bid for affordable housing development
On Tuesday, June 25, 2024, the Olmsted County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) Board awarded a construction bid for the development of 10 affordable, single-family homes to Bigelow Homes LLC.
Voting absentee in the August 2024 primary election
Voting absentee in the August 2024 primary election
Beginning Friday, June 28, 2024, eligible voters in Minnesota can vote absentee for the August 13, 2024, primary election.
Weather reminders from Olmsted County and the City of Rochester Emergency Management
Flood watch issued for our entire region
Weather reminders from Olmsted County and the City of Rochester Emergency Management
Flood watch issued for our entire region
The City of Rochester and Olmsted County Emergency Management teams are taking this opportunity to share important reminders about the severe weather and the outdoor warning system in place throughout Olmsted County.
Olmsted County launches food scrap drop-off pilot program to combat waste
Olmsted County launches food scrap drop-off pilot program to combat waste
Did you know food waste accounts for 21% of trash produced in Olmsted County? And, that food waste can be transformed into valuable compost? Olmsted County has designed an innovative food scrap drop-off pilot program for residents interested in trying out this concept. Kits are on sale now!
Olmsted County offices closed Wednesday, June 19, 2024
Olmsted County offices closed Wednesday, June 19, 2024
Olmsted County offices will be closed Wednesday, June 19, 2024, in observance of Juneteenth. Regular business hours resume Thursday, June 20, 2024. Olmsted County parks will remain open on June 19.
Public Works Service Center expansion nearing completion
Public Works Service Center expansion nearing completion
Several Olmsted County departments currently located at 2122 Campus Drive SE in Rochester will relocate to the newly expanded Public Works Service Center.
“Be in the Know” campaign raises awareness about the dangers of substance use
“Be in the Know” campaign raises awareness about the dangers of substance use
Olmsted County is proud to announce the launch of the "Be in the Know" campaign, a comprehensive community initiative designed to inform residents about the dangers of substance use.
Olmsted County hosts informational session on ballot board process
Olmsted County hosts informational session on ballot board process
This session is part of Olmsted County’s ongoing efforts to maintain transparency and integrity in the electoral process, ensuring that all procedures are clearly understood by those involved and by residents.
New video! Olmsted County’s commitment to mental health
New video! Olmsted County’s commitment to mental health
Olmsted County is committed to offering and partnering to provide mental health resources and responses to help improve quality of life for residents in our communities. Watch this video to learn more!
Health officials to hold public meetings in southeast Minnesota to discuss nitrate in drinking water
Health officials to hold public meetings in southeast Minnesota to discuss nitrate in drinking water
The Minnesota Department of Health invites private well owners in southeastern Minnesota to attend a public meeting in their area to learn about what is being done to address health concerns about nitrate in drinking water.
Conservation field day: Creating a soil health legacy
Conservation field day: Creating a soil health legacy
The Olmsted Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), in collaboration with Wabasha SWCD and Winona SWCD, announces the upcoming Conservation field day: Creating a soil health legacy. This event will occur on August 1, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Larry and Ross Greden Farms at 16764 County Rd 114, Altura, MN. All attendees are invited to enjoy a complimentary lunch.
Olmsted County hosts 66th annual rabies vaccination clinic
Voucher available for $20 vaccine after event
Olmsted County hosts 66th annual rabies vaccination clinic
Voucher available for $20 vaccine after event
Olmsted County Public Health Services announces its 66th annual rabies vaccination clinic, scheduled for June 12, 2024. This important event, held in collaboration with local veterinarians, is an opportunity to protect our pets, families, and community from the threat of rabies.
Explore the beauty of Olmsted County's free parks this summer
Explore the beauty of Olmsted County's free parks this summer
Olmsted County's parks offer the perfect solution if you're looking for an affordable way to enjoy the great outdoors. With four stunning parks free to the public, there's no excuse not to immerse yourself in nature's beauty.
Contractors encouraged to submit bids for affordable housing project
Contractors encouraged to submit bids for affordable housing project
Interested contractors have until June 14, 2024, to submit their bids online.
Permanent absentee voter status update
Permanent absentee voter status update
Beginning June 1, 2024, Minnesota will introduce a permanent absentee voter list.
Olmsted County offices closed Monday, May 27, 2024
Olmsted County offices closed Monday, May 27, 2024
Olmsted County offices will be closed Monday, May 27, 2024, in observance of Memorial Day.
Consider the benefits of WIC for your family!
50 years of WIC health and nutrition programs
Consider the benefits of WIC for your family!
50 years of WIC health and nutrition programs
There are about 61,000 Minnesota families who could benefit by signing up for WIC today. The Minnesota Department of Health encourages these families to use WIC, which has successfully improved maternal and child outcomes for 50 years.
Mobilizing Olmsted Voices for Equity (M.O.V.E) community council launches in Olmsted County
Mobilizing Olmsted Voices for Equity (M.O.V.E) community council launches in Olmsted County
In a significant stride toward fostering a more inclusive and equitable community, Olmsted County proudly announces the creation of the Mobilizing Olmsted Voices for Equity (M.O.V.E.) community council.
Candidate filing periods for 2024 General Election
Candidate filing periods for 2024 General Election
Olmsted County encourages people interested in running for federal, state, and local offices to review online candidate resources.
Olmsted County receives CarePortal’s 2023 Agency of the Year award
Olmsted County receives CarePortal’s 2023 Agency of the Year award
Olmsted County was nominated by a CarePortal volunteer from a local church in our community and selected as the award recipient out of a group of other nominees across the country.
The work of Health, Housing, and Human Services: New Video – Lives Empowered. Communities Strengthened.
The work of Health, Housing, and Human Services: New Video – Lives Empowered. Communities Strengthened.
A glimpse into the relationships built with residents, specifically by Olmsted County's Health, Housing, and Human Services employees.
Friends of Oxbow reaches $1 million fundraising goal for Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo nature center
Friends of Oxbow reaches $1 million fundraising goal for Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo nature center
This significant milestone marks the final step in funding the new facility which opened to the public in May 2023.
Sheila Kiscaden announcement – Stepping down as District 6 commissioner at end of 2024
Sheila Kiscaden announcement – Stepping down as District 6 commissioner at end of 2024
On April 16, 2024, Olmsted County District 6 Commissioner Sheila Kiscaden announced she is stepping down from the position at the end of 2024.
“Many Paths to Wellness” conference on May 9, 2024
“Many Paths to Wellness” conference on May 9, 2024
On May 9, 2024, individuals from all walks of life are invited to attend the Southeast Minnesota Community Mental Health and Wellness conference "Many Paths to Wellness."
Olmsted County recognized as a Certified Age Friendly Employer™
Olmsted County recognized as a Certified Age Friendly Employer™
Olmsted County proudly announces its designation as a Certified Age Friendly Employer™ by the Age Friendly Institute. This distinction recognizes Olmsted County’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment for individuals 50 and above.
Olmsted County recognized as one of area’s 2024 Best Places to Work
Olmsted County recognized as one of area’s 2024 Best Places to Work
Olmsted County is honored to receive recognition from Workforce Development, Inc. (WDI) as a top workplace destination in Southeast Minnesota!
The county is among 15 organizations chosen from this region as a recipient of WDI’s 2024 Best Places to Work award and one of five organizations named as a recipient in the Large Employer category.
County Road (CR) 44 and Highway 14 Interchange Project public meeting on April 23, 2024
County Road (CR) 44 and Highway 14 Interchange Project public meeting on April 23, 2024
Project goals include enhancing safety and mobility while supporting regional growth and future economic development.
Olmsted County releases new multi-year strategic plan
New mission, vision, values, priorities, and goals
Olmsted County releases new multi-year strategic plan
New mission, vision, values, priorities, and goals
Olmsted County has released its 2024 – 2028 strategic plan to the community. The plan is the culmination of 18 months of work which involved assessing Olmsted County’s strengths, opportunities, aspirations, results, and challenges. Throughout the process, input was gathered from county representatives, partners, and community members with the overall objective of developing a shared vision for the future of the Olmsted County organization.
New property tax mailing address for Olmsted County
New property tax mailing address for Olmsted County
Olmsted County has a new mailing address for property tax payments. The envelopes you received with your tax statement will have the new mailing address.
Olmsted County recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month
Olmsted County recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month
Olmsted County Child and Family Services employees are committed to providing services and support to ensure a safe and loving environment for children to grow up in.
Bringing Easter cheer to Olmsted County residents
Bringing Easter cheer to Olmsted County residents
More than 200 children and teenagers will be receiving Easter baskets thanks to this collective effort.
Process in Olmsted County for appealing 2024 assessed property valuation and/or classification
Process in Olmsted County for appealing 2024 assessed property valuation and/or classification
If property owners do not agree with their estimated market value, there are steps they can take to begin the appeal process.
Apply for an open Olmsted County advisory board position today!
Apply for an open Olmsted County advisory board position today!
Olmsted County will be interviewing candidates for open advisory board positions during the month of April 2024. Currently, Olmsted County has openings on the following advisory boards/commissions: Public Health Services Advisory Board, Olmsted County Zoning Board of Adjustment, and the Chester Heights Sewer District Advisory Board.
CSAH 44 and TH 14 interchange project receives federal funding boost
CSAH 44 and TH 14 interchange project receives federal funding boost
Olmsted County is set to receive $7.3 million in federal funding towards the CSAH 44 and TH 14 interchange project. Construction on the project is expected to begin as soon as fall 2025.
Dodge & Olmsted (D&O) Community Corrections receives Lead Innovator Award
Dodge & Olmsted (D&O) Community Corrections receives Lead Innovator Award
The award recognizes D&O’s efforts to implement the Dosage Discharge program, and its commitment to evidence-based practices in probation services.
Vote in the March 5 presidential primary
Vote in the March 5 presidential primary
A presidential primary is held every four years ahead of the general election in November and is a way voters help states and political parties choose presidential nominees.
Olmsted County announces changes to advisory boards for human services and human rights
Olmsted County announces changes to advisory boards for human services and human rights
Olmsted County is announcing changes to two of its advisory boards, specifically the Human Services Advisory Board and the Human Rights Commission. These changes aim to enhance the effectiveness of community engagement, aligning with the county’s commitment to continuous improvement.
Exploring CredibleMind’s alcohol and drug awareness resources
Exploring CredibleMind’s alcohol and drug awareness resources
Olmsted County’s new CredibleMind system has several resources available on alcohol and drug awareness and other tools to support mental health.
Olmsted County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) Board moves forward with affordable housing initiatives
Olmsted County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) Board moves forward with affordable housing initiatives
On February 15, 2024, the Olmsted County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) Board approved two initiatives aimed at addressing the need for affordable housing options in Olmsted County.
Olmsted County offices closed Monday, February 19, 2024
Olmsted County offices closed Monday, February 19, 2024
Olmsted County offices will be closed Monday, February 19, 2024, in observance of Presidents' Day. Regular business hours resume Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Olmsted County parks will remain open on February 19.
Direct balloting for March 5 presidential primary begins Friday
Direct balloting for March 5 presidential primary begins Friday
Absentee in-person direct balloting for the March 5, 2024, presidential primary begins Friday, February 16, 2024. Direct balloting allows voters to insert their ballots directly into a tabulator at the direct balloting location.
City of Chatfield building permit administration
City of Chatfield building permit administration
Beginning February 1, 2024, the Olmsted County Planning Department will administer the building permit process for projects taking place within the City of Chatfield. This includes Fillmore County properties located within the city limits of Chatfield.
Still We Rise: Rochester’s Black Legacy – Traveling exhibit launching February 5, 2024
Still We Rise: Rochester’s Black Legacy – Traveling exhibit launching February 5, 2024
In celebration of Black History Month, Olmsted County residents are welcome to view a new traveling exhibit called “Still We Rise: Rochester’s Black Legacy.”
Olmsted Soil and Water Conservation District hosts soil health event on I-90 tour
Olmsted Soil and Water Conservation District hosts soil health event on I-90 tour
The Olmsted Soil and Water Conservation District is hosting an upcoming stop on the “What needs to be regenerated on your farm?” I-90 tour. The event, taking part in collaboration with the Minnesota Soil Health Coalition, comes to Stewartville on February 7, 2024.
Project Community Connect
Project Community Connect
Project Community Connect – an event designed to provide services and resources for people who are homeless or struggling to make ends meet – is returning on Friday, January 26, 2024.
Voting absentee in the 2024 presidential primary
Voting absentee in the 2024 presidential primary
Beginning Friday, January 19, 2024, through Monday, March 4, 2024, eligible voters in Olmsted County can vote absentee in the March 5, 2024, presidential primary.
Coming January 30, 2024 - New 924 area code added to 507 area code region
Coming January 30, 2024 - New 924 area code added to 507 area code region
Residents will begin using a new dialing procedure on January 30, 2024.
Winter Storm – Stay informed via Olmsted County’s social media pages
Winter Storm – Stay informed via Olmsted County’s social media pages
Olmsted County is monitoring the winter storm warning in effect Friday, January 12, through Saturday, January 13, 2024.
Olmsted County offices closed Monday, January 15, 2024
Olmsted County offices closed Monday, January 15, 2024
Regular business hours resume Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
Olmsted Soil and Water Conservation District hosts soil health event
OSWCD also conducting survey to gather landowner and farmer feedback
Olmsted Soil and Water Conservation District hosts soil health event
OSWCD also conducting survey to gather landowner and farmer feedback
The Olmsted Soil and Water Conservation District (OSWCD) is hosting free events in January and February 2024 in partnership with soil and water conservation districts in neighboring counties. The intended audience for these events is local farmers.
Strategies developed to address Olmsted County’s community health priorities
Strategies developed to address Olmsted County’s community health priorities
In the 2022 Olmsted County Community Health Needs Assessment, the community identified mental health, drug use, and access to care as the county’s top three health priorities. To address these concerns, Olmsted County Public Health Services, Olmsted Medical Center, and Mayo Clinic developed the 2024-2026 Community Health Improvement Plan.
Advisory board interview process changing for 2024
Interviews to occur twice a year – April and October
Advisory board interview process changing for 2024
Interviews to occur twice a year – April and October
Olmsted County is making this change to streamline the process and be more flexible with potential advisory board candidates, so they don’t need to take time off work to be interviewed during county board meetings.
Olmsted County 2023 Year in Review
New video!
Olmsted County 2023 Year in Review
New video!
We are excited to present a video that illustrates Olmsted County's efforts to enhance residents' quality of life throughout 2023.