Olmsted County is opening the registration lottery application for cannabis mezzobusinesses soon. Starting July 14, 2025, representatives from interested businesses have 10 business days to apply.

Chester Woods Park is turning 30, and Olmsted County invites the community to celebrate this milestone with a full day of family-friendly fun on Saturday, July 12, 2025.

Olmsted County offices will be closed Friday, July 4, 2025, in observance of Independence Day. Regular business hours resume Monday, July 7, 2025. Olmsted County parks will remain open.

Effective July 7, 2025, parking payments at the Government Center lot will transition from individual meters to two centralized multi-space pay stations.

Olmsted County is seeking public input to help shape the future of its parks through a community survey. The county is currently updating its park master plans and wants to ensure local voices are reflected in the process. 

The Olmsted County Board of Commissioners has sent a letter to federal legislators outlining the potential negative impacts of the budget reconciliation package known as the "Big Beautiful Bill." Included in the bill are significant cuts to social programs, like Medicaid. 

With the health and safety of community members a top priority, Olmsted County is reminding residents of ways to stay cool and safe during this weekend’s heat.

Friends of Chester Woods, in partnership with Olmsted County volunteers, is excited to announce Employers of Olmsted Light Festival (E.L.F.) — a drive-thru holiday light experience taking place at Chester Woods Park over the first three weekends of December 2025. 

Olmsted County offices will be closed Thursday, June 19, 2025, in observance of Juneteenth. Regular business hours will resume Friday, June 20, 2025. Olmsted County parks will remain open on June 19.

Olmsted County is proud to highlight a series of initiatives aimed at increasing access to inclusive, affirming care for the LGBTQIA+ community.