The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office has owned and operated Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, also referred to as drones, for several years. A recent change to Minnesota Statute mandates that agencies wishing to use or purchase UAVs must, according to Minn. State Statute 626.19 subd. 9, accept public comment on the agency’s policy.
The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office is now accepting public comments on Policy 606 Unmanned Aerial Systems Operation. Comments will be accepted via email at sheriffinfo@co.stearns.mn.us, by mail at Stearns County Sheriff’s Office P.O. Box 217, St. Cloud MN 56302, or by phone at (320) 259-3702. The Stearns County Board of Commissioners will also hold a public hearing at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15, or shortly after, to accept public comments as well.
In response to COVID-19, and pursuant to Minnesota Statute Chapter 12 relating to Emergency Management, Governor Walz has declared a state of emergency. In response to the state of emergency and in accordance with Minnesota Statute Chapter 13D.021, Board of Commissioner members and the applicant may participate by telephone or other electronic means. The meeting will be broadcast live at http://stearnscountymn.iqm2.com/Citizens/Default.aspx.
The meeting will be held at the Stearns County Administration Center Board Room located at 705 Courthouse Square, St. Cloud MN 56303. In-person public comments will not be heard, to conform with MDH and CDC guidelines to minimize gatherings.
If you would like to participate in public comment by telephone or other electronic means, please contact the Stearns County Auditor’s Office at auditor.email@co.stearns.mn.us or (320) 656-3900. You may submit written comment by emailing auditor.email@co.stearns.mn.us by 8 a.m. on the hearing date. Written comment may also be mailed to the Stearns County Auditor’s Office, Administration Center, 705 Courthouse Square Room 148, St. Cloud MN 56303.