The Winona County Board meeting on January 25, 2025, featured significant public commentary regarding local school conditions and community safety funding. Residents expressed concerns about the state of the local high school and the allocation of resources towards police facilities instead of educational and social services.

Levontae Thompson, a community member, highlighted the deteriorating conditions of the high school, noting that it appeared unchanged since 1999. He emphasized that such conditions could discourage students from attending school, urging the board to prioritize educational infrastructure over funding for police amenities, such as a heated parking garage.

Another resident, identified as Andy, echoed these sentiments, pointing out a lack of public support for a new police station. He called for a focus on health and human services, arguing that community needs are not being met through current funding priorities.

Amanda Johnsgaard also contributed to the discussion, stressing the importance of investing in public safety measures that address root causes of issues like domestic violence, rather than solely relying on police intervention after incidents occur.

The meeting underscored a growing concern among residents about the balance of funding between law enforcement and essential community services, reflecting a desire for a more holistic approach to public safety and education in Winona County.