Martin County Commissioners have approved a lease agreement with the Martin County Fair for office space at the fairgrounds for the 4-H program. The lease, set at $6,000 annually for a five-year period, is a plan that has been in the works since December.

Commissioner Steve Flohrs offered his opinion.

“I think it’s incredibly important to get them out there,” he said. “There’s a number of issues going on, and they spend an incredible amount of time hauling stuff out there during the fair. Then they haul it all back there again.

Commissioner Kathy Smith commented:

“I understand the move, but I hate to see them leave the courthouse,” she said. “It’s nice to have 4-H in the building, but I understand the reasons why, and I think we’re ready for it to happen.”

The board also heard from Martin County Highway Engineer Kevin Peyman concerning a potential speed limit increase to 60 mph on County Road 26, commonly known as “Old 16 from Fairmont to the Faribault County line and eventually to Blue Earth. Both Faribault and Martin counties would have to undergo speed studies and pass resolutions to proceed. The process will take a couple of years. The current speed limit stands at 55 mph and will continue for the foreseeable future.

Commissioners also approved a policy on the possession of firearms in the workplace for Martin County employees. The policy follows state law, which declares that no individual employed by the county is permitted to carry or possess a firearm while acting in the course and scope of their employment for the county, unless the individual is a licensed peace officer or a permitted county attorney or assistant county attorney.

The board also approved a professional service agreement with the Granada-Huntley-East Chain School District through the Martin County Sheriff’s Office for a deputy position to be assigned as a school resource officer for the district. Sixty-six percent of the cost will be paid by the district, while the county will cover the remaining 34 percent. The position will include an initial three-year term, beginning in September. GHEC still must approve the agreement.