NEW ULM — In an effort to promote the benefits of fresh air and natural light for public health employees, Brown County commissioners approved a grant funding application for an outdoor work station by a 4-1 vote Tuesday.

Several commissioners said they liked the grant funding request that would add an outdoor work station and plant station near the Brown County Community Services Building, 1117 Center St.

“When I worked at Koozie Group in Sleepy Eye, we had the option of holding meetings outside. I think it’s an opportunity to try this out,” said commissioner Brian Braun.

“It’s definitely out of the box thinking which is good. I like that it’s creative. Initially, I wasn’t for it, but after looking at it, I’m in full support of it,” said commissioner Dave Borchert.

“It looks like a perfect SHIP project. I’m in favor it it,” said commissioner Scott Windschitl.

Commissioner Tony Berg cast a dissenting vote for the $20,034.98 SHIP (Statewide Health Improvement Partnership) grant application to help purchase a solar-powered, outdoor workstation.

“I see limited use of it. I see it more as a novelty,” said commissioner Berg.

The SHIP funding request includes $16,825 plus shipping for a workstation with ADA accessible seating for up to 8 people and two metal, raised garden beds. The device would provide off-grid electronic device power for a minimum of 30 years. The grant requires a 10% in-kind, local match.

Total project cost is $23,194.98 to purchase the outdoor work station and plant station.

The Brown County Community Services building’s 104 employees will be encouraged by the wellness coordinator to use the outdoor work station for meetings and lunch breaks.

Additional funding sources will be sought to implement workstations at all county buildings.

Brown County Public Health Director Jaimee Brand said occasionally workers go outside to work. She said the solar panel could produce power even in cloudy days.

“Engaging employees to use an outdoor work station would create an inviting and functional environment for work and well-being. We would start by creating an outdoor space with adequate shade to protect from sun or rain,” said Brand.

“By spending time outdoors, we could see a lower risk of chronic disease and illness in employees,” Brand said.

She said departments could organize team meetings or brainstorming sessions to showcase the (outdoor) space potential. A flexible scheduling system including outdoor work hours could be added.

Brand said it is imperative to prioritize the well-being of all employees as wellness impacts productivity, and job satisfaction.

She said the impact of an outdoor workstation can be measured and evaluated with employee surveys and a tracking system on how often the workstation is used.

The application stated changes in health and well-being can be measured by indicators such as reduced sick days, increased productivity and employee morale. Focus groups may be created for employees to provide more insight on how an outdoor work station impacts their work.