The Houston County Board approved significant administrative and procedural measures during its recent meeting, including the adoption of a consolidated County Policies and Procedures Manual, a three-year HR/payroll and workforce management contract with UKG, and resolutions to sponsor local road improvement grant applications for the cities of Houston and Caledonia.
Brent, a member of the county staff, presented the new policy manual as a “living document” designed to replace previous county policies. He indicated that the manual would be updated to include Minnesota’s mandatory paid leave and other essential policies as needed. The board discussed the logistics of distribution, emphasizing the importance of staff sign-offs, which will be conducted via the county’s KnowBe4 system. Following this discussion, members of the board approved the resolution to adopt the manual.
In a move to modernize its staffing operations, the board approved staff recommendations to engage UKG through the Minnesota Counties Computer Cooperative (MNCCC) as a replacement for outdated payroll and HR systems. Brent noted that the implementation and launch fee for UKG would be approximately $17,006.55, while the recurring annual subscription is projected at about $43,065, which comes with a guarantee for three years. The board authorized the initiation of the UKG contract and instructed staff to commence implementation efforts, aiming for a go-live date by June 1, 2026. Presenters highlighted that transitioning to UKG could lead to potential cost savings by retiring existing standalone scheduling and timesheet systems.
Additionally, the board addressed the county’s role in sponsoring local road improvement projects as non-state-aid cities seek funding. Staff outlined the sponsorship for projects in the City of Houston, specifically the Westgate Drive initiative, and for Caledonia, which involves a roadway extension related to roundabout detour requirements. The board approved these sponsorship resolutions, noting that county oversight would be minimal if funding is awarded.
Moving forward, city staff will implement the policy distribution plan and proceed with the UKG implementation, with plans to return to the board with detailed updates regarding both schedule and costs. The approved sponsorship resolutions will enable the cities of Houston and Caledonia to pursue Local Road Improvement Program (LRIP) funding under the county’s sponsorship, which is expected to enhance local infrastructure.
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