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The Mower County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday morning unanimously voted to adopt a policy for legal representation for elected officials and department heads in the county.

According to the policy itself, it establishes guidelines and procedures for legal representation for elected officials department heads while doing their jobs for the county.

The policy lays out the guidelines for the representation as well as responsibilities of those being represented, legal counsel review and the county administrator.

During the meeting, County Attorney Kristen Nelsen noted that other counties have started looking at similar polices and that a number of years ago it was brought forward prior to the arrival of County Administrator Trish Harren Gjersvik, however, it was never brought before the board.

“I think it’s time we had something we can fall back on,” said Chair Polly Glynn.

Better prescription

Commissioners also approved by a unanimous vote the adoption of an agreement between the county  and B SMART for prescription services.

It comes as a result of the new health plan the county adopted last year that actively looks for cheaper alternative drug prices on behalf of the employee. This is especially significant with some specialty drugs that can come at higher prices.

In a memo of the board, Human Relations Director Kris Kohn said that by utilizing B SMART, it will save the county between $38,000 and $74,000 twice per year.

She also stated that doing something like this may come about again as plan operators continue looking for cheaper drug alternatives.

“It’s a real win-win,” Kohn said.