The McLeod County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday approved a 2025 compensation services agreement with Keystone Compensation Group of Minneapolis for an annual compensation program maintenance and consultation contract not to exceed $15,750, paid from the countywide budget.

County staff said the contract is a budgeted expense and will be brought to the board annually for approval. The staff presentation noted, “Keystone has been working with McLeod County since 2014.”

Board members discussed whether the expense is worthwhile. One commissioner said it felt like “a lot of money” but that the service is “a valuable tool” for keeping the county’s compensation plan current and aligned with market data. The board voted to approve the agreement; the motion was moved and seconded and carried on a voice vote.

The contract is intended to provide ongoing maintenance and consultation so county staff can use updated compensation data for recruitment and retention decisions. The staff presentation said the agreement will be renewed and presented to the board annually.