Olmsted County thanks legislators for supporting key priorities during 2026 legislative session
Olmsted County expresses gratitude to state legislators for their partnership during the 2026 legislative session and for supporting several county priorities that will strengthen safety, modernize essential services, and enhance long-term community well-being.
Investments in transportation safety and mobility
The 2026 bonding bill includes $8 million for design work on interchanges at Trunk Highway 14 and County State Aid Highways 3 and 5. These planned interchanges along U.S. Highway 14 in Byron will help increase safety, enhance mobility, and accommodate long-term regional growth.
“This investment allows us to take a significant step forward in addressing longstanding safety concerns on one of our busiest corridors,” said Olmsted County Public Works Director Ben Johnson. “Improving these intersections will enhance safety, ease congestion, and support the continued growth of our region. We are grateful to our legislators for recognizing the importance of this project and appreciate their support.”
Advancing soil health and groundwater protection
The Southeast Regional Groundwater Protection and Soil Health Initiative received more than $2 million through the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) bill. This funding will allow the successful Olmsted County soil health program to be implemented in 10 additional southeastern Minnesota counties, strengthening shared efforts to protect groundwater quality and promote sustainable land stewardship.
Enhancing safety and access at Oxbow Park
Olmsted County is preparing to move forward with more than $2 million in Legacy funding—allocated last session and expected to become available soon—to replace aging pedestrian bridges at Oxbow Park. These improvements will enhance safety and accessibility for the thousands of residents and visitors who enjoy the park each year.
Modernizing human services technology
A major bipartisan accomplishment this session was the passage of a standalone Human Services Systems Modernization bill, providing $75 million this biennium, $15 million in fiscal years 2028 and 2029, and establishing a Human Services Modernization Fund that can provide funding for multi-year technology improvements. The bill also creates a Human Services Systems Modernization Advisory Council, giving counties a stronger voice in planning and implementing statewide human services technology systems.
“We are grateful for the bipartisan trust this unanimous vote shows for our modernization bill,” said Associate Director of Family Support and Assistance Dan Jensen. “Everyone recognized the vision of this approach and the urgent need to modernize the technology our workers depend on and our citizens deserve. I am proud of the countless hours, dedication, and statewide collaboration that shows what’s possible when people come together with a shared commitment to progress and better serving our communities.”
One-time property tax relief
Olmsted County is appreciative to the legislature for providing a one-time increase to the homestead credit refund program. Counties across the state are facing significant property tax pressures for a variety of reasons including higher costs due to recent changes in federal and state human services programs that counties are required to implement. We appreciate the partial, one-time funding the legislature provided to address some of these cost shifts and look forward working with legislators next session to permanently address these increased costs.
A shared commitment to a thriving community
Olmsted County Board Chair Dave Senjem expressed appreciation for the work of legislators and state partners in advancing county priorities.
“We are grateful for the thoughtful support shown by the Minnesota Legislature this session,” noted Commissioner Senjem. “Whether improving transportation safety, protecting our natural resources, modernizing human services technology, or supporting essential programs for families, these investments help move us toward our vision of a vibrant community where everyone thrives. We look forward to continuing this important work together.”