Becker County News - All Departments

Becker County offices will be closed on Friday, July 4th, 2025 in observance of the Independence Day holiday. Have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend!

Becker County is conducting a routing study for the Heartland Trail, focusing on the area from Dunton Locks County Park to Bucks Mill. Community feedback is essential to ensure the trail best serves the needs and interests of the public. Residents are encouraged to visit the project website to learn more about the study and participate in the planning process. For more information, see the News Release (PDF), and visit the project website.

The Becker County Sheriff's office is disposing of a 2017 Police Ford Explorer (bad motor) via the Public Surplus online auction site. Auction ends July 24, 2025. See the auction listing.

You are invited to attend an 'Understanding NEAR Science: Building a Resilient Community' presentation to learn how childhood adversity impacts our lives, the lives of our children, and the health of our communities. Presentation will be held on Tuesday, August 19 at the Cornerstone Bistro in Frazee. Presentation Flyer (PDF).

The Becker County Sheriff's Office would like to remind residents that they can sign up for severe weather alerts through the CodeRED automated alert system. More information | CodeRED Flyer (PDF).

A Naloxone Access Point (NAP) is a publicly accessible pick up site for life-saving overdose reversal medication. Public Health partners with Steve Rummler HOPE Network (SRHN) to provide these free kits to the public - no questions asked. NAP Flyer (PDF). More information from the CDC: Lifesaving Naloxone & What to Do if you Think Someone is Overdosing.

Becker County has been actively engaged in opposing SF#3480 and HF#4304. Becker County is urging our legislative representatives and the Governor to not support these bills. On March 5, 2024, Becker County Board passed a resolution 03-24-1C in opposition to these bills. There has been a collaborative effort between staff and board members gathering and presenting information to law makers in opposition to these bills. For more information on the recent committee hearing , please view Committee on Environment, Climate and Legacy - 03/07/24 (YouTube).

Becker County Emergency Management is seeking public feedback from residents and businesses as the county's Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) is being updated. Your comments, concerns, and questions regarding natural disasters and potential mitigation actions will be considered during this update process. More information (PDF).

The Crow Wing River One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P) Partnership is working to develop a Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan for the Crow Wing River Watershed. The plan is expected to be completed by late 2024. You can view the progress here.

Becker County Human Services is looking for Volunteer Drivers to provide transports. Mileage reimbursement at the current rate. Applicants must have a reliable vehicle, valid driver's license and insurance and a cleared medical statement from their physician. If interested, please contact Shannon F. or Christy R. at 218-847-5628.

MN Statute 471.701 SALARY DATA: A city or county with a population of more than 15,000 must annually notify its residents of the positions and base salaries of its three highest-paid employees. This notice may be provided on the home page of the primary Web site maintained by the political subdivision for a period of not less than 90 consecutive days, in a publication of the political subdivision that is distributed to all residents in the political subdivision, or as part of the annual notice of proposed property taxes prepared under section 275.065.

County Sheriff, Todd Glander, $147,750
County Attorney, Brian McDonald, $157,000
County Administrator, Carrie Smith, $165,168

Starting July 1, 2014, Becker County will have a 0.5 percent transit sales and use tax. The tax will be administered by the MN Dept. of Revenue and the revenue will be used to fund Becker County road projects (SMART). General notice (PDF).  |  More info.

The regular meeting for the EDA Board Meeting has been rescheduled from May 15th at 3:00 pm to May 22nd at 3:00 pm.

Eligible childcare providers currently operating and interested in expanding or individuals in the process of obtaining and starting a childcare business are encouraged to apply for the Building Blocks Grant program to reimburse eligible expenses. Funds are only eligible for increasing childcare capacity within Becker County. Applications will close June 15th, 2025. Maximum awards up to $10,000, funding is limited. Program Flyer (PDF). Guide (PDF). Application (PDF).

Eligible first-time homebuyers in Becker County have access downpayment and closing cost assistance through Minnesota Housing. More Information (PDF).

Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing is available through a join-powers agreement with Becker County and the Saint Paul Port Authority. MinnPACE reduces the burden of up front cost with low interest long-term financing up to 100% of energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy installations on both new construction and retrofit projects. More info on eligibility and benefits here.

Becker County Environmental Services has put together program packages for businesses and muti-unit housing managers trying to implement a recycling program. Within them, you'll find tips and resources to help your recycling effort. Please see the 'More info' tab on our Recycling page, or download the Business package (PDF), Multi-Unit package (PDF), or Signage (PDF).

In an effort to increase recycling in our community, Becker County provides a 'special event' recycling program for its residents. Whether it is a picnic, reunion, sporting event, or show, we can provide assistance, guides and bins for your use during your event. More info (PDF).  |  Guide (PDF).

Local governments, employers and nonprofits are working together to offer Home Ownership for Me (HOMe) Down-payment Loans in Becker County. This program is operated by MMCDC. Program Flyer (PDF)  |  MMCDC Website

You are invited to attend an 'Understanding NEAR Science: Building a Resilient Community' presentation to learn how childhood adversity impacts our lives, the lives of our children, and the health of our communities. Presentation will be held on Tuesday, August 19 at the Cornerstone Bistro in Frazee. Presentation Flyer (PDF).

A Naloxone Access Point (NAP) is a publicly accessible pick up site for life-saving overdose reversal medication. Public Health partners with Steve Rummler HOPE Network (SRHN) to provide these free kits to the public - no questions asked. NAP Flyer (PDF). More information from the CDC: Lifesaving Naloxone & What to Do if you Think Someone is Overdosing.

Documents can be emailed to Becker County Human Services at the following email address: officesupport@co.becker.mn.us. Please make sure to have a working phone number listed on your paperwork. Documents may also be mailed to our agency, or dropped off in the drop box located beside the front door of our building - see our address in the 'Contact This Department' section of this page.

Applications for SNAP, CASH, Emergency Assistance, and Daycare Assistance can be done online directly at MNbenefits. You can also apply for healthcare at MNsure.

Becker County Human Services is looking for Volunteer Drivers to provide transports. Mileage reimbursement at the current rate. Applicants must have a reliable vehicle, valid driver's license and insurance and a cleared medical statement from their physician. If interested, please contact Shannon F. or Christy R. at 218-847-5628.

Beginning March 1, 2022, the Motor Vehicle office will begin accepting walk-in appointments again for Real ID and Enhanced Drivers License. Real and Enhanced ID's can be completed Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 8:30am to 11:00am. Advance appointments are no longer required, but please insure you have all your documentation with you.

Effective January 1, 2016 you are required to provide proof of insurance (company name, policy number and policy expiration date) for all motor vehicle and motorcycle renewals. In addition you must also provide this information for all motor vehicle and motorcycle title transfers.

Have you ever wondered why the county has tax forfeit forest land or how that forest land is managed? Check out the following presentation to learn more about Minnesota's County Forest Lands.

Becker County is conducting a routing study for the Heartland Trail, focusing on the area from Dunton Locks County Park to Bucks Mill. Community feedback is essential to ensure the trail best serves the needs and interests of the public. Residents are encouraged to visit the project website to learn more about the study and participate in the planning process. For more information, see the News Release (PDF), and visit the project website.

Early Childhood Screening in your area is partnering with the Minnesota Department of Health for a statewide program that will measure chemicals in kids. This voluntary program will give us a picture of children's exposures to harmful chemicals across the state. Click here for more information and see if your child is eligible or call Annie at 218-847-5628 ext. 5419 or email Annie.Vigen@co.becker.mn.us You will be compensated for your time.

A Naloxone Access Point (NAP) is a publicly accessible pick up site for life-saving overdose reversal medication. Public Health partners with Steve Rummler HOPE Network (SRHN) to provide these free kits to the public - no questions asked. NAP Flyer (PDF). More information from the CDC: Lifesaving Naloxone & What to Do if you Think Someone is Overdosing.

Effective July 1, 2025 - Marriage application license fees increase to $125.00, with the reduced license fee with educator's statement $50.00. Recording fee for Well Certificates increase to $54.00.

Also effective July 1, 2025 - Marriage Officiants - M.S. 517.04, Requires any person who wishes to officiate a civil marriage in Minnesota to register with a county in Minnesota and removes all other requirements or references to individuals who are currently authorized to perform civil marriages.

The Becker County Recorder's Office will be accepting routine passport applications by appointment only. Call the Recorder's Office at 218-846-7304 to schedule an appointment. Be advised, there can be delays before receiving your passport and documentation. See the travel.state.gov website for more information and current processing times.

The Recorder's Office is accepting marriage license applications by appointment only. Please call the Recorder's Office at 218-846-7304 to schedule an appointment.

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free online service for U.S. citizens who are traveling to or living in a foreign country. STEP allows you to enter information about your whereabouts abroad so that the Department of State can better assist you in an emergency. Read more (PDF).

As a reminder - the Recorder's office can provide a copy of recorded property deeds at no cost. Many residents have reported receiving unsolicited mailings (example (PDF)) that are attempting to charge money for something you can obtain for FREE. The office recommends you ignore mailings such as these.

Document searches and land record viewing has never been easier! Search Becker County land records 24/7 with a credit card at www.idocmarket.com.

The Becker County Sheriff's office is disposing of a 2017 Police Ford Explorer (bad motor) via the Public Surplus online auction site. Auction ends July 24, 2025. See the auction listing.

Becker County Emergency Management is seeking public feedback from residents and businesses as the county's Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) is being updated. Your comments, concerns, and questions regarding natural disasters and potential mitigation actions will be considered during this update process. More information (PDF).

The Becker County Sheriff's Office would like to remind residents that they can sign up for severe weather alerts through the CodeRED automated alert system. More information | CodeRED Flyer (PDF).

The Becker Soil and Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors will hold their regular July board meeting on Tuesday, July 15 at 8:30 a.m. at the Becker SWCD office. This is a change from the previously scheduled date.

The BSWCD is seeking to hire a full-time Conservation Technician. This position will work with field office personnel and various agencies to implement the objectives of the Comprehensive Watershed Management Plans and provide technical assistance to county landowners. The closing date for this position is April 7, 2025 or until filled. Position Announcement (PDF). Employment Application (PDF).

The BSWCD is seeking to hire a full-time Private Lands Biologist. This position supports the efforts of private landowners, partner agencies and local professionals implementing locally driven soil health and water quality improvement initiatives, wetland, grassland and soil conservation measures on the landscape. The closing date for this position is April 7, 2025 or until filled. Position Announcement (PDF). Employment Application (PDF).

The MN Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (MASWCD) has named Tim and Angie Lehrke, Ogema, MN as one of eight Area Finalists in the 2024 Outstanding Conservationist Award Program. The Lehrke's will be recognized at the MASWCD's 88th annual convention in Bloomington. Read more (PDF).

The Crow Wing River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan is in final draft. This plan is a collaborative effort between Local Government Units to protect, enhance or restore our natural resources such as groundwater, surface water, soil health, biological health and forest management. We are seeking public input on the draft plan for 60 days. To view the plan and provide comments, visit this page.

The Becker SWCD recently completed a large shoreline restoration project at a resort on Island Lake. Watch along as a natural solution is implemented to deal with the problem of shoreline erosion. Watch video.

Lakes TV3 recently aired a 'Spotlight on Frazee' segment featuring a shoreline restoration project that involved the Becker Soil and Water Conservation District. Watch video. 

Becker County Transit is conducting a survey to gather input and answers from our customers. Please take a moment to share your input in a brief survey. Thank you! Survey link.

Consider Lakes Transit for your transportation needs in and around our area. Check out our new commericials, Lakes Transit Friends  & Lakes Transit Youth.

The National Resource Directory (NRD) is a database of validated resources that supports recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration for service members, veterans, family members, and caregivers. Find out more at https://www.nrd.gov/

The Becker County Veterans Service office is now publishing a 'Veterans News' newsletter to help highlight events, news, and announcements for our local Veterans. The latest version is available here at Volume 4 Issue 3 (PDF).