NEW ULM — Brown County Commissioners unanimously approved Bolton & Menk’s $52,300 proposal Tuesday to do a comprehensive land use plan update.

Brown County budgeted $20,000 in 2025 tax levy funds for the project that would establish goals and objectives of orderly county development. The remaining $32,300 in project costs would come from the 2026 county budget, Brown County Administrator Sam Hansen said.

County staff asked several firms for proposals and received two. The Sleepy Eye office of Bolton & Menk proposed doing the project for $52,300. HKGi of Minneapolis proposed doing the project at a cost not to exceed $75,000.

“I have financial concerns. It’s all levy money. I see the value of it. I think it’s time to do it. But the price tag makes me raise my eyebrows. If we kick the can down the road, it won’t get cheaper,” said Commissioner Dave Borchert.

Commissioner Brian Braun said the land use plan can determine “where we go as a county.”

Brown County Planning and Zoning Administrator Robert Santaella said the project can include interactive, online public feedback.

“As one of the oldest counties in Minnesota, Brown County aims to create a plan that balances its rich historical past and precious resources while growing its tax base with forward-looking strategies,” read Bolton & Menk’s proposal.

The plan includes developing a graphics-based story map to inform people about the project, seek input, and notify them about upcoming public meetings.

A two-hour casual public forum including questions and feedback would take place after the preliminary draft of the comprehensive use plan is created.

“Our team has completed more than 65 comprehensive plans in the last six years. We have multidisciplinary expertise to support Brown County’s unique needs. We are very familiar with processes and procedures, including the practical realities of managing public meetings and challenging community issues,” wrote Bolton & Menk Senior Planner, Architect and Project Manager Mojra Hauenstein.

Approval came on a motion by Commissioner Brian Braun, seconded by Borchert.