Press Releases
Media: View Olmsted County's latest press releases
Olmsted County Veteran Services partners with the Veteran Benefits Administration’s St. Paul Regional Office to host PACT Act Claims Clinic
Olmsted County Veteran Services partners with the Veteran Benefits Administration’s St. Paul Regional Office to host PACT Act Claims Clinic
This joint initiative is designed to provide essential support and guidance to veterans navigating the complexities of their claims.
Olmsted County faces setback in bid for $10 million Housing Stability Center funding
Olmsted County faces setback in bid for $10 million Housing Stability Center funding
The Olmsted County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) recently learned its application for $10 million to help fund a Housing Stability Center in Rochester was not awarded by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS).

Olmsted County revokes licenses for substance abuse treatment center
Olmsted County revokes licenses for substance abuse treatment center

Olmsted County revoked public lodging as well as food and beverage licenses for Oakridge Treatment Center in Haverhill Township on November 22, 2023. This action occurred due to continued concerns about the safety and well-being of individuals in the facility and neighboring communities.
Olmsted County property tax homestead notice
This will affect your 2024 property taxes and eligibility for a property tax refund
Olmsted County property tax homestead notice
This will affect your 2024 property taxes and eligibility for a property tax refund
The December 31, 2023 deadline to file for homestead for taxes payable in 2024 is quickly approaching. If your property is not currently homesteaded, find out if you may qualify and what you must do to change the homestead status of your property. This will affect the amount of property tax you pay in 2024, and it may affect your eligibility for a property tax refund.
2023 Chester Woods Park Lottery Deer Hunt closure
2023 Chester Woods Park Lottery Deer Hunt closure
The Olmsted County Parks Department will close Chester Woods Regional Park for the management shotgun deer hunt season November 18 through November 26, 2023.
Understanding proposed property taxes for 2024
Understanding proposed property taxes for 2024
Property owners wanting to learn more about county budget information are invited to attend a public hearing, the Truth in Taxation meeting, at the Olmsted County Government Center Board Room on December 7, 2023, at 6 p.m.

Olmsted County bans use of cannabis in public places
Olmsted County bans use of cannabis in public places

On Tuesday, November 7, 2023, the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners passed an ordinance prohibiting the smoking and vaping of cannabis in public places.
Join Olmsted County for “Operation Green Light” in support of Veterans Day
Join Olmsted County for “Operation Green Light” in support of Veterans Day
For the second consecutive year, Olmsted County is participating in "Operation Green Light" in honor of the approaching Veterans Day holiday.
Chester Woods Park Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Deer Hunt
Chester Woods Park Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Deer Hunt
The Olmsted County Parks Department will be hosting a Disabled American Veterans (DAV) shotgun hunt at Chester Woods Park.
Olmsted County Public Health Services launches donor milk program
Olmsted County Public Health Services launches donor milk program
Olmsted County Public Health Services has launched a new program to provide free pasteurized donor human milk to breastfeeding and chestfeeding families in need.
Olmsted County Commissioner Laurel Podulke-Smith selected to represent Association of Minnesota Counties on statewide Cannabis Advisory Council
Olmsted County Commissioner Laurel Podulke-Smith selected to represent Association of Minnesota Counties on statewide Cannabis Advisory Council
Minnesota is the 23rd state in the nation to legalize cannabis use for people 21 and older. As this legislation rolls out statewide, Olmsted County Commissioner Laurel Podulke-Smith will be playing an important role as a member of the Cannabis Advisory Council. Podulke-Smith was appointed to serve in this role by the Association of Minnesota Counties’ (AMC) Executive Committee.
Oxbow Park DAV Archery Deer Hunt
Oxbow Park DAV Archery Deer Hunt
The Olmsted County Parks Department will be hosting a DAV bow hunt at Oxbow Park. The Disabled American Veterans Hunt will be October 28, 2023, through December 3, 202
Bridge Replacement Work on County Road (CR) 107, starting Monday, October 30, 2023
Bridge Replacement Work on County Road (CR) 107, starting Monday, October 30, 2023
Olmsted County Public Works is announcing the following bridge replacement project beginning Monday, October 30, 2023.
Olmsted County Soil and Water Conservation Annual Tree Sale Begins
Olmsted County Soil and Water Conservation Annual Tree Sale Begins
Each year the Olmsted County Soil and Water Conservation District sells trees and shrubs in bundles of 20 to 25 bare root transplants (2-3 years old). This is an inexpensive way to simply add color and beauty to your property. The trees are great for homestead windbreaks, living snow fences and wildlife habitat.
Our 2024 Tree Sales Program is officially open for the public to purchase trees and shrubs. The public can make their purchase via the Tree Sales Website.
Absentee direct balloting in the November 7 special election
Rochester and Stewartville residents
Absentee direct balloting in the November 7 special election
Rochester and Stewartville residents
The absentee direct balloting period for the November 7, 2023, special election begins October 20 for Rochester and Stewartville voters, and will continue through November 6, 2023, the last day of early absentee voting.
Railroad Maintenance Work on County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 7 (Center Ave South, Eyota) beginning October 9, 2023
Railroad Maintenance Work on County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 7 (Center Ave South, Eyota) beginning October 9, 2023
Canadian Pacific Railway will be performing maintenance work at the railroad crossing on CSAH 7 (Center Ave South) in Eyota beginning Monday, October 9, 2023.
Olmsted County to transition targeted case management services from Family Service Rochester to Child & Family Services
Olmsted County to transition targeted case management services from Family Service Rochester to Child & Family Services
The annual cost savings of this transition is estimated to range between $200,000 and $400,000.
Enhancing Olmsted County public services with two facility projects
Enhancing Olmsted County public services with two facility projects
These initiatives will improve operations and services for both the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office and Public Works department.
Zollman Zoo closed for boardwalk replacement beginning September 25, 2023
Zollman Zoo closed for boardwalk replacement beginning September 25, 2023
Zollman Zoo at Oxbow Park will be closed to the public from Monday, September 25, 2023, to Friday, October 6, 2023, for necessary maintenance.
Olmsted County sets preliminary levy for 2024
Olmsted County sets preliminary levy for 2024
The 2024 preliminary property tax levy for Olmsted County and the HRA combined totals $130,602,041. This will be funded with county and HRA property taxes of $125,692,357 and $4,909,684, respectively. It's important to note that the preliminary levy is a maximum amount the board cannot exceed when it approves the final 2024 budget and levy on December 19, 2023. If the preliminary 2024 levy is approved in December, the county’s $125,692,357 property tax will be a 5.2% increase over 2023.
Voting absentee in the November 7 special election
Rochester and Stewartville residents
Voting absentee in the November 7 special election
Rochester and Stewartville residents
Beginning Friday, September 22, 2023, through Monday, November 6, 2023, eligible voters in Rochester and Stewartville can vote absentee in the November 7, 2023, special election.
Soil health cost-share program now open for enrollment
Soil health cost-share program now open for enrollment
The Olmsted Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) has opened enrollment for the second year of its soil health program. The SWCD encourages Olmsted County farm operators to apply for the cost-share program.
Olmsted County receives credit ratings from Moody’s and S&P
Olmsted County receives credit ratings from Moody’s and S&P
Olmsted County continues its Aaa credit rating streak – the highest possible rating – from Moody’s Investors Service. Olmsted County also received a AAA long-term rating from S&P Global Ratings. In its latest ratings, Moody’s and S&P also both indicated a stable outlook for Olmsted County.
Olmsted County highlights resources for suicide prevention
Olmsted County highlights resources for suicide prevention
As the nation observes Suicide Prevention Month this September, Olmsted County aims to raise awareness, build community support, and highlight vital resources available to residents in our area.
2023 Chester Woods Park Lottery Deer Hunt
2023 Chester Woods Park Lottery Deer Hunt
The Olmsted County Parks Department will open Chester Woods Regional Park to a limited number of deer hunters during the shotgun season of November 18, 2023 – November 26, 2023.
September 12 field day on advancing soil health
September 12 field day on advancing soil health
Cover crops, small grains, and soil health will be the focus of a free Dodge Soil Water Conservation District (SWCD) and Olmsted SWCD field day on Tuesday, September 12, 2023 from 3 - 6 p.m., with a burger dinner to follow.
Public input sought for state and federal transportation projects
Public input sought for state and federal transportation projects
The Rochester-Olmsted Council of Governments (ROCOG) has released a draft of the 2024-2027 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), for a 30-day public comment period. The TIP is a multi-year program of 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 again teamed up to offer influenza vaccinations.
Olmsted County earns national achievement award for joint study on race and racism as a public health issue
Olmsted County earns national achievement award for joint study on race and racism as a public health issue
The awards honor innovative, effective county government programs that strengthen services for residents.
Free nitrate testing at the Olmsted County Fair
Free nitrate testing at the Olmsted County Fair
The Olmsted Soil and Water Conservation District and Olmsted County Public Health Services are providing free water testing at the Olmsted County Fair for households that rely on private systems for their drinking water.
Olmsted County using ARPA funds and levy reserves for housing, Graham Park, and groundwater protection and soil health projects
Olmsted County using ARPA funds and levy reserves for housing, Graham Park, and groundwater protection and soil health projects
The county must complete all ARPA funded projects by December 31, 2026.
Olmsted County unveils plans for spending opioid settlement funds
Olmsted County unveils plans for spending opioid settlement funds
Olmsted County has started to receive settlement funds through the State of Minnesota, which has signed onto several national settlements with opioid manufacturers and distributors.
Olmsted County is set to receive $7.2 million from two rounds of settlements over the next 18 years. By the end of 2023, Olmsted County will have received more than $1.7 million.
State grant issued for Trunk Highway 14/County State Aid Highway 44 interchange project
State grant issued for Trunk Highway 14/County State Aid Highway 44 interchange project
On July 11, 2023, Governor Tim Walz announced that the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) will allocate $380 million to fund eight new infrastructure projects through the state’s Corridors of Commerce program. The Trunk Highway (TH) 14 and County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 44 interchange project was selected to receive $60 million to build a grade separated interchange at the intersection located between Rochester and Byron.
Roadway Closure along County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 44 (60th Ave NW) to begin on July 11, 2023
Roadway Closure along County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 44 (60th Ave NW) to begin on July 11, 2023
Roadway construction work on CSAH 44 (60th Ave NW), as part of the CSAH 4/CSAH 44 project, is scheduled to begin on July 11, 2023. The intersection of 51st St NW and 60th Ave NW will be opening to provide access to the Pebble Creek development. A closure of 60th Ave NW from the intersection of 51st St NW to the north will be closed to traffic.
Roadway Closure along CSAH (County State Aid Highway) 44 (60th Ave NW) to begin on July 5, 2023
Roadway Closure along CSAH (County State Aid Highway) 44 (60th Ave NW) to begin on July 5, 2023
Roadway construction work on CSAH 4 (Valleyhigh Road NW) as part of the CSAH 4/CSAH 44 project will be moving into the next stage on June 28, 2023. Traffic will be moved onto the newly constructed section of CSAH 4.

Free nitrate testing for private well owners
Free nitrate testing for private well owners

The Olmsted County Soil and Water Conservation District and Olmsted County Public Health Services are providing free water testing for households that rely on private systems for their drinking water. Free nitrate testing will be available at the Rochester Farmer’s Market on Saturday, June 24, 2023.
Dave Dunn expands role at Olmsted County – Director of Housing and Planning departments
Dave Dunn expands role at Olmsted County – Director of Housing and Planning departments
Effective mid-July 2023, Dave Dunn will be expanding his role as director of both Olmsted County’s Housing and Planning departments.
Minnesota voting updates
Minnesota voting updates
As of June 1, 2023, several election laws went into effect in Minnesota. Residents with felony convictions, who are not currently incarcerated, can vote, and 16- and 17-year-old Minnesota residents can pre-register to vote.
Willow Creek Transportation Study Open House & Public Comment Opportunities
Willow Creek Transportation Study Open House & Public Comment Opportunities
The Rochester-Olmsted Council of Governments (ROCOG) is initiating a transportation study of the Willow Creek area in the southern portion of the greater Rochester urban area to identify improvements needed to address existing safety and travel concerns, as well as plan for future needs stemming from anticipated growth and development in the area.
Recognizing and preventing vulnerable adult abuse
Recognizing and preventing vulnerable adult abuse
It is important to recognize there are different types of vulnerable adult abuse, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, financial exploitation and scams, and neglect.
Public input wanted as Olmsted County updates hazard mitigation plan
Public input wanted as Olmsted County updates hazard mitigation plan
Olmsted County residents, community leaders, business owners, area agencies and organizations now have an opportunity to share how severe weather events impact their property and lives. There is also an opportunity to share ideas on how to reduce local impacts in the future.
Olmsted County to approve funding for temporary bleachers at Graham Park
Olmsted County to approve funding for temporary bleachers at Graham Park
The temporary bleachers will provide seating for approximately 2,000 attendees during popular fair events such as bull riding and the demo derby.

Olmsted County hosts 65th annual rabies vaccination clinic
Olmsted County hosts 65th annual rabies vaccination clinic

Olmsted County Public Health Services will host its 65th annual rabies vaccination clinic on June 14, 2023. In partnership with local veterinarians, this event is an opportunity to help protect our pets, family, and community from the spread of rabies.
State legislature awards Olmsted County $23 million through bonding/cash bills
State legislature awards Olmsted County $23 million through bonding/cash bills
The Minnesota legislature approved $23 million in state capital investment dollars to help fund the following Olmsted County initiatives:
- $10 million toward construction of a materials recovery facility (MRF).
- $8 million toward an exhibition center at Graham Park.
- $5 million toward an interchange at the intersection of County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 44 and Trunk Highway (TH) 14.
Olmsted County puts spotlight on Mental Health Awareness Month
Olmsted County puts spotlight on Mental Health Awareness Month
Olmsted County is joining millions of Americans in recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month. This month provides a unique opportunity to spread awareness and act on mental health matters.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in five U.S. adults experiences mental illness each year. Less than half of them receive treatment. Olmsted County is not immune to this issue.
May is Supervised Visitation Awareness Month
May is Supervised Visitation Awareness Month
Supervised visitation is designed to ensure children can have safe contact with a parent or other significant adults during times of family conflict or transition.
Ribbon-cutting held for new Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo nature center
Ribbon-cutting held for new Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo nature center
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Friday, May 5, 2023, for the opening of the new nature center at Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo.
The new facility replaces a nature center built in 1981. It offers park visitors more room to enjoy exhibits and learn about southeastern Minnesota's geology, flora, and fauna. It is an interactive learning space designed to educate, enrich, and excite nature lovers of all ages.
Olmsted County lifts COVID-19 emergency declaration
Olmsted County lifts COVID-19 emergency declaration
After more than three years, Olmsted County is officially ending the COVID-19 public health emergency with the repeal of the declaration by the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday, May 2, 2023.
Olmsted County Public Health Services will now focus on balancing prevention and living with COVID-19 in our community.
Recognizing National Building Safety Month
Recognizing National Building Safety Month
On May 2, 2023, the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners proclaimed May as Building Safety Month in Olmsted County.
Recognizing National Foster Care Month
Recognizing National Foster Care Month
Olmsted County recognizes the important role we each have in a person’s well-being. During National Foster Care Month, we thank the foster parents, family members, volunteers, mentors, welfare professionals, and other members of the community who help adults, teenagers, and children in foster care find permanent homes and connections.
Olmsted County recognized as one of area’s 2023 Best Places to Work
Olmsted County recognized as one of area’s 2023 Best Places to Work
The county is among 15 organizations chosen from this region as a recipient of Workforce Development Inc.'s 2023 Best Places to Work award and one of five organizations named as a recipient in the Large Employer category.
Roadway Closure along County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 4 and County Road (CR) 158 to begin on April 19, 2023
Roadway Closure along County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 4 and County Road (CR) 158 to begin on April 19, 2023
Roadway construction work on CSAH 4 (Valleyhigh Road NW), as part of the CSAH 4/CSAH 44 project to begin on April 19, 2023.
The 2023 Olmsted SWCD Annual Tree Sale Pickup
The 2023 Olmsted SWCD Annual Tree Sale Pickup
The 2023 Olmsted SWCD Annual Tree Sale Pickup will take place on Friday, April 28, 2023 from Noon - 7:00 PM at Graham Park/Olmsted County Fairgrounds - Building 25 (Dairy)
Recognizing Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Recognizing Sexual Assault Awareness Month
For more than 30 years, the Victim Services team of Dodge, Fillmore, and Olmsted Counties has provided support to people impacted by sexual assault and other crimes.
Roadway Closure along County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 44 (60th Ave NW) to begin on April 12, 2023
Roadway Closure along County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 44 (60th Ave NW) to begin on April 12, 2023
Roadway construction work on CSAH 44 (60th Ave NW), as part of the CSAH 4/CSAH 44 project, is scheduled to begin on April 12, 2023. A closure of the intersection of 51st St NW / 60th Ave NW is required due to underground utilities being installed.
County Road 101 Closure for Training Beginning April 12, 2023
County Road 101 Closure for Training Beginning April 12, 2023
Olmsted County Public Works will be closing County Road 101 for gravel road maintenance training, beginning Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at 8:00 a.m.
Help strengthen families and prevent child abuse
Help strengthen families and prevent child abuse
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. This month and throughout the year, Olmsted County encourages all individuals and organizations to play a role in making our community a better place for children and families.
Celebrating Olmsted County’s community and culture during National Public Health Week
Celebrating Olmsted County’s community and culture during National Public Health Week
Olmsted County Public Health Services (OCPHS) recognizes National Public Health Week, April 3-9, 2023, focusing on community and cultural connections.
This year's National Public Health Week theme is "Centering and celebrating culture in health."
Process in Olmsted County for appealing 2023 assessed property valuation and/or classification
Process in Olmsted County for appealing 2023 assessed property valuation and/or classification
Recently, a notice was mailed to Olmsted County property owners regarding the 2023 assessed value and/or classification of their property. Southeast Minnesota, including Olmsted County, saw average residential value increases between 4% and 15%.
County Road 146 (3rd Avenue SE) Pavement Preservation and Restriping Project Open House/Project Area Meeting March 29th, 2023, 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm
County Road 146 (3rd Avenue SE) Pavement Preservation and Restriping Project Open House/Project Area Meeting March 29th, 2023, 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Olmsted County is hosting an open house on March 29th, 2023, from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm at Aune Hall (Located at Graham Park – 1580 Aune Dr SE, Rochester MN) for the Olmsted County Road 146 Pavement Preservation and Restriping Project.
US 14 Corridor Analysis Open House at Byron City Hall March 28th, 2023, 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
US 14 Corridor Analysis Open House at Byron City Hall March 28th, 2023, 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
The public is invited to attend an informational meeting for the official mapping of the selected alternative for the TH 14 Corridor Analysis project.
New outreach program connects social workers with residents in need in various community locations
New outreach program connects social workers with residents in need in various community locations
Olmsted County, in partnership with Family Service Rochester, is pleased to bring its Guiding Partners to Solutions (GPS) program to residents in need at various community locations beginning March 21, 2023. GPS is a team of social workers that works to reduce barriers and connect individuals and families with housing, cash, food, and insurance assistance and provides help in applying for these benefits.
2023 Seasonal Load Restrictions
2023 Seasonal Load Restrictions
Olmsted County Public Works is announcing the following road updates beginning this week.
The 2023 seasonal load restrictions for Olmsted County roads will go into effect on Friday, March 10, 2023.
Olmsted County Soil and Water Conservation District 2023 Plant Kit and Seed Mix Sale Returns
Olmsted County Soil and Water Conservation District 2023 Plant Kit and Seed Mix Sale Returns
Each year, in October, The Olmsted County Soil and Water Conservation District sells trees and shrubs in bundles of 20 to 25 bare-root transplants. This is an inexpensive way to simply add color and beauty to your property. The trees are great for homestead windbreaks, living snow fences, and wildlife habitat.
Olmsted County recognizes Social Work Month
Olmsted County recognizes Social Work Month
Olmsted County social workers are dedicated to providing essential services and resources for our residents.
Olmsted County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 5 and CSAH 25 Reconstruction Project Open House
February 22, 2023, 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Olmsted County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 5 and CSAH 25 Reconstruction Project Open House
February 22, 2023, 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Olmsted County is hosting an open house for the CSAH 5 and CSAH 25 Reconstruction Project on February 22, 2023, from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm at the Byron Fire Department (707 Frontage Rd NW, Byron, MN 55920).
Groundwater protection and soil health cost-share now available in Olmsted County
Groundwater protection and soil health cost-share now available in Olmsted County
The program aims to promote the growing of beneficial crops such as small grains, forages, other alternative crops, and grazing lands.
Olmsted County residents reminded to receive COVID-19 bivalent vaccine boosters
Olmsted County residents reminded to receive COVID-19 bivalent vaccine boosters
The variant in current circulation is new, and Olmsted County Public Health Services (OCPHS), Mayo Clinic, and Olmsted Medical Center continue to note the importance of vaccination as a tool against severe illness. They continue to provide bivalent booster shots to those who have not already received one.
Public Hearing set for 10-year Watershed Plan
Public Hearing set for 10-year Watershed Plan
After two years of work, the WinLaC watershed plan is ready for review and comment by the public. The goal of the ten-year plan is to identify and prioritize the water quality issues the community cares about.
Dodge & Olmsted (D&O) Community Corrections
Dodge & Olmsted (D&O) Community Corrections
On January 1, 2023, a new Dodge & Olmsted (D&O) Community Corrections team became effective.
Olmsted County Public Health reminds families to test homes for radon
Olmsted County Public Health reminds families to test homes for radon
January is National Radon Action Month. Olmsted County Public Health Services (OCPHS) is reminding residents to test their homes for this potentially dangerous gas.
Radon is an invisible and odorless gas that occurs naturally in rocks, soil, and water. Radon gas decays into fine particles that are radioactive. When inhaled, these fine particles can damage the lungs. Radon is recognized as the second leading cause of lung cancer.
New commissioners begin service with Olmsted County
New board chair Gregg Wright also shares remarks during board meeting
New commissioners begin service with Olmsted County
New board chair Gregg Wright also shares remarks during board meeting
The commissioners join incumbent commissioners Sheila Kiscaden, who represents District 6, Mark Thein, who represents District 7, and Gregg Wright, who represents District 3.