NEW ULM — Brown County Human Services medical assistance (MA) applications rose significantly in 2025, from 605 in 2024 to 675.

“Applications are certainly trending up. We’ve had 39 more MA applications so far in 2026. We currently have 3,138 Brown County residents served by Medical support programs, (MA) and Minnesota Care,” said Brown County Human Services Director Anne Broskoff told Brown County Commissioners Tuesday.

On top of that, resignations, unplanned leave requests and training timelines complicate things.

Brown County Human Services Director Anne Broskoff said human services has relied on hiring Express Personnel temporary employees due to lengthy unplanned staff leave requests, two resignations and training timelines through 2025.

“We currently have one county staff worker covering 2,000 cases for medical assistance programs which is unsustainable,” said Broskoff. “To maintain MA program continuity and avoid service disruptions, it is critical we extend temporary employees supporting coverage. Without it, we risk authorizing benefits no longer warranted, which could lead to unnecessary expenditures. Conversely, timely updates allow us to identify and implement taxpayer savings opportunities.”

She said one new staff member started working, but won’t be trained and able to provide help until March. A second new staff member starts Feb. 9 and will be trained by the end of March. But both depend on open training spots.”

Broskoff said two temporary workers have worked 7-10 hours a week since they began working for the county. She anticipates the workers will be needed through March.

Commissioners unanimously approved a request for continued use of temporary employees at $27.08 an hour, a 3% cost of living hike from the 2025 rate plus a 7 or 8% administrative rate charged by Express Personnel, the employer of record, until three full-time Brown County employees provide income maintenance services.

Broskoff said Express Personnel is responsible for any workers compensation and unemployment costs.

The request was unanimously approved, motion by Commissioner Brian Braun, seconded by Dave Borchert.

“I agree this allows us to meet deadlines that we need to accomplish,” said Braun.