The Winona County Board meeting on January 25, 2025, focused heavily on the future structure and effectiveness of the Health and Human Services Advisory Committee. The discussion centered around the potential separation of the committee into two distinct entities: one for human services and another for public health. This proposal arose from concerns that the current combined structure does not adequately address the needs of public health, which often gets overshadowed by human services during meetings.

Commissioners expressed frustration over the lack of engagement and effectiveness within the advisory committee, noting that public health issues often receive insufficient attention. Several members advocated for a return to two separate advisory committees, arguing that this would allow for more focused discussions and better outcomes for public health initiatives. They highlighted the importance of having dedicated time for public health topics, suggesting that the current format leads to a lack of actionable goals and diminished participation from community members.

The conversation also touched on the need for strong leadership within the committee to guide discussions and set measurable outcomes. Some commissioners emphasized that simply separating the committees might not solve the underlying issues of leadership and engagement. They suggested that a collaborative approach, with joint meetings between the two committees, could foster better communication and cooperation.

In addition to the advisory committee discussions, the meeting included public comments regarding the proposed joint police facility with the city of Winona. Several community members voiced their opposition to the project, arguing that funds should be redirected towards essential services such as mental health support, housing, and emergency services rather than increasing police presence. They called for a public hearing to allow for broader community input before any decisions are made.

The board concluded the meeting by agreeing to gather more information on the advisory committee structure and the community's needs regarding public safety and health services. The discussions highlighted a clear desire among commissioners and community members for a more effective and responsive approach to health and human services in Winona County.