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Emergency Management

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1. I thought this office was called Civil Defense?

Emergency Management was known as Civil Defense until 1974 when congress enacted the Disaster Relief Act (PL 93-288). That is the time when there was a shift from enemy attack mentality, to natural disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery. That same year, the Department of Emergency Management for the state and FEMA for the federal government were both established.

2. What functions does the office perform when there is either a man-made or natural disaster?

The Emergency Management Director coordinates the response to an emergency and ensures that the response to an emergency is running as safely and efficiently as possible by coordinating the allocation and use of resources. We work hand-in-hand with law enforcement, fire, Public Health, EMS, Environmental Services and volunteer agencies like Red Cross and Salvation Army to make sure that the disaster response is as effective and efficient as possible.

Learn how to personally prepare for a disaster by visiting the Emergency Management webpage.

3. How can I make sure my family is prepared for a disaster?

As with the Emergency Management Office, it is important for all families to have a disaster plan and to practice their plan. Each family should also have a family disaster kit with items in it such as flashlights, water, portable radio, extra batteries.

For further information on how you can plan for your family before a disaster strikes, visit the Emergency Management webpage.

4. What functions does the office do when there isn't a disaster?

Responding and recovery from disaster is just a small part of functions of the Emergency Management Office. The office is responsible for:

• Applying for state and federal grants
  
• Compiling periodic reports and reviews that need to be submitted to state offices
  
• Coordinating various exercises to test the plan
  
• Educating the public on emergency management
  
• Participating in on-going trainings in Emergency Management
  
• Providing assistance to local jurisdictions and county agencies before, during and after disaster strikes
  
• Updating and revising to the County Emergency Operations Plan
  

Nicollet County Emergency Management (NCEM) works closely with local, state and federal officials and cooperatively with neighboring jurisdictions, to better prepare for and respond to incidents ranging from tornadoes to terrorism to pandemics. To learn more about the office, visit the Emergency Management webpage.

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Gun Permits

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1. Where can I apply for a permit to carry a pistol?

Minnesota residents may obtain a permit to carry a pistol by submitting a Permit to Carry Application and other related documents to the sheriff in the county where the applicant resides. Non-residents may apply to any Minnesota county sheriff.

2. Can I apply for a permit to carry if I am not a U.S. citizen but have permanent resident alien status in the United States?

Yes. When you apply you will need to provide the sheriff with your I-551 or I-151 card, whichever one you have been issued.

3. Can I apply for my permit by mail?

No. Minnesota State Statute requires you to apply at the Sheriff's Office in person.

4. What are the requirements for getting a permit to carry?

• You must be a resident of the county from which you are requesting a permit, if you are a Minnesota resident. Non-residents may apply to any Minnesota county sheriff.
• You must be at least 21 years of age.
• You must complete the correct application form.
• You must not be listed in the criminal gang investigation system.
• You must not be prohibited from possessing a firearm by any local, state, or federal law.
• You must provide a certificate of completed authorized firearms training. Training must be provided by a certified instructor and must be completed within 1 year of the original or renewal application date.

5. What is the process for obtaining or renewing my permit to carry?

• Deliver the application packet along with your training certificate to the sheriff's office where you currently reside. Out of state applicants may apply at any Minnesota sheriff's office.
• Take an authorized firearms training class within 1 year of your application or renewal date.
• You must present a current drivers license, state identification card, or the photo page of your passport showing residency in the county. Permanent US Resident must present an I-551 or I-151 card.

6. When is a permit to carry not required?

• To carry a pistol between the person's dwelling house and place of business*.
• To carry a pistol from a place of purchase to the person's dwelling house or place of business*, or from the person's dwelling house or place of business* to or from a place where repairing is done, to have the pistol repaired.
• To carry a pistol in the woods or fields or upon the waters of this state for the purpose of hunting or of target shooting in a safe area.
• To keep or carry about the person's place of business*, dwelling house, premises, or land possessed by the person.
• To transport a pistol in a motor vehicle, snowmobile or boat if the pistol is unloaded, contained in a closed and fastened case, gun box, or securely tied package.

*Case law states that a person must have an interest in the place of business, not merely an employee.

7. Where can I find a list of approved firearms training classes?

The BCA provides a list of Approved Business Organizations that the BCA certifies for training for the Minnesota Personal Protection Act. The Approved Business Organizations certify the instructors that teach for them. Individuals needs to contact those organizations for instructor information.List of approved firearms training classes

8. If I am a non-resident, must I take an approved firearms training class in Minnesota in order to get a Minnesota permit to carry?

No. You are only required to present evidence that you have received training in the safe use of a pistol from an organization or government entity that has been approved by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety in accordance with the department's standards.

9. Do members of the military need to take additional firearms training in order to apply for a permit to carry?

Although members of the military received superb firearms training, they must receive training from an instructor that has been certified by an approved business organization in Minnesota. This additional training pertains to the legal aspects of permit to carry issues.

10. What is the cost for a permit to carry?

The fee for a new permit to carry is $100. The fee for a renewal is $75 if you apply within 90 days before your expiration date. The fee is $85 if you apply within 30 days after your expiration date. If your permit is more than 30 days expired, it is considered a "new" permit and you will be charged $100.  Accepted payment method is cash or check only - exact cash is preferred as we don't always have access to change when paying with large bills.

11. How long do I have to wait to get my permit?

You will know if your permit is issued or denied within 30 days of your application date.

12. How long is my permit valid?

New and renewal permits are valid for 5 years from the date of issuance. Emergency permits are valid for 30 days.

13. Can I get an emergency permit to carry?

Emergency permits may be issued by the sheriff if he/she determines that the person is in an emergency situation that may constitute an immediate risk to the safety of the person or someone residing in the person's household.

14. What would prevent me from getting a permit to carry?

Any applicant who does not meet the criteria as listed above is not eligible for a permit to carry a pistol. The sheriff may also deny the application if there is a substantial likelihood that the applicant is a danger to himself or others if issued a permit to carry.

15. Where is my Minnesota permit valis?

Minnesota permits are valid throughout the state of Minnesota. Individuals interested in determining whether a Minnesota permit to carry is valid in another state should contact that state directly to determine what the carry laws are.

16. Do I need to have my permit to carry card with me when carrying a pistol?

Yes. The permit holder must have the permit card and a valid driver's license, state identification card, or other government issued photo identification in immediate possession at all times when carrying a pistol and must display the permit card and identification document when requested by a peace officer.

17. Do I have to disclose to a peace officer that I am a permit holder and carrying a firearm?

Yes. Upon request of a peace officer, a permit holder must disclose to the officer whether or not the permit holder is currently carrying a firearm.

18. Do I need to notify the Sheriff's Office when I move?

Yes. A permit holder is required to notify the issuing sheriff's office within 30 days of a permanent address change. Failure to do so is a petty misdemeanor.

19. Does the address on my permit to carry need to match the address on my driver's license?

No. However, the permit holder may obtain an updated permit at a cost of $10. There is a statutory requirement to change the address on your driver's license within 30 days after changing your residence. (171.11)

20. If I have a permit to carry, do I have to conceal the pistol?

No. Minnesota Personal Protection Act is a permit to carry law, not a conceal and carry law. The pistol does not need to be concealed, but may be concealed.

21. What do I do if my permit card is lost or destroyed?

The permit holder must notify the issuing Sheriff's Office within 30 days of having lost or destroying the card. Failure to do so is a petty misdemeanor.

22. If I have a permit to carry a pistol, do I need to apply for a permit to purchase if I want to purchase a handgun?

No. Under Minnesota law, handgun transfers involve any sale, gift, loan, assignment, or other delivery to another person. If you possess a valid permit to carry a pistol, that permit constitutes a permit to purchase. You do not need to apply for a separate permit to purchase.

23. Where am I prohibited from carrying my pistol?

The provisions of federal and state law that describe these prohibitions are found at:

• 18 United States Code section 930
• Minnesota Statutes, section 243.55
• Minnesota Statutes, section 609.66
• Minnesota Statutes, section 624.714
• Minnesota Statutes, section 641.165

24. Can private establishments prohibit carrying pistols on their premises?

Yes. Private establishments must post a notice banning guns on their premises or personally notifying patrons that guns are not allowed.

25. Can my landlord restrict me from carrying or possessing firearms on residence prmises?

Landlords may not restrict the lawful carry or possession of firearms by tenants or their guests.

26. Can I prohibit firearms in my private residence?

Yes. The owner of the residence may prohibit firearms from their house.

27. If I am a resident of a state that does not have reciprocity with Minnesota but have a permit to carry from a state that does, may I carry in Minnesota?

Yes.

28. How can I legally transport a firearm without obtaining a permit to carry?

Transporting firearms without a permit requires the person to have the firearm unloaded and fully enclosed in a case made to contain a firearm.

29. Is there a public list of unpermitted holders?

No. This is private data and not available to the public.

30. Where do I renew my permit to carry?

Permits to carry are renewed at the county Sheriff's Office where the applicant currently resides. Out of state permit holders can renew at any Sheriff's Office.

31. When can I renew my permit?

Permits may not be renewed until 90 days prior to the expiration date of the current permit. The renewal fee is during the 90 days prior to expiration is $75.

After the expiration date, but within 30 days after the expiration, you can renew your permit by paying an additional late fee of $10 in addition to the $75 renewal fee. During this time, your past permit is not valid and you will not be able to legally carry a pistol until your renewal permit has been issued.

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Historic Preservation Commission

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1. Do I need to answer every question on the Historic Designation Application?

No, you do not need to answer every question on the application. Only complete those questions which are related to your request.

2. How do I find the GPS coordinates for the property?

You may choose to shoot the coordinates with a personal GPS unit with the following settings:

• Location Format – UTM UPS
• Map Datum – NAD83

If you do not have a GPS unit available, you may also locate your property / structure on Google Maps, Bing Maps, and ArcGIS Explorer for the coordinates. If you are not familiar with these programs, you may also search on the internet for assistance with the location of coordinates.

3. Where do I find my legal description?

The legal description may be found on your deed to the property, on your property tax statement, or on the Nicollet County Assessor’s website.

4. Will the designation change the tax status of the property?

No, the designation will not change the tax status of the property.

5. Does the request have to be associated with a National Historic Event?

No, it does not have to be a National Historic Event. The request must represent a significant historic event, a historic site, or a person who contributed to the culture and development of Nicollet County.

6. Where will the designations be displayed?

The designations will be displayed on the Environmental Services website with a picture and description of the object, property, item, etc. The designation documents will also be available for review in the Environmental Services Department and at the Nicollet County Historic Society.

7. What are appropriate additional resources to include with the application?

Additional resources may include photographs, excerpts from books, newspaper articles, official documents, etc.

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Licensing

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1. How do I make an appointment for a behind-the-wheel road test or written test?

At this time you will need to call an exam station as they are the only offices providing testing at this time. The St. Peter office is not an exam station. The Mankato Exam Station phone number is 507-344-2799.

2. Do you accept credit cards, debit cards, and check cards?

Yes, however, there is a user fee of 2.45% charged on all license, motor vehicle and Department of Natural Resources (DNR) transactions. Call the Auditor-Treasurer's Office with any questions regarding payments at 507-934-7806.

3. What if I lost or did not receive my vehicle registration renewal notice?

If you are the registered owner, bring your driver's license and the vehicle license plate number or title. If you are not the registered owner, you will need written permission from the registered owner to purchase registration. For more information about vehicle fees, visit the Motor Vehicles webpage.

If you did not receive your renewal notice and are unable to come into the office in person please use this form. Please note that the entire form must be filled out in order to be accepted.

4. What do I need to transfer a snowmobile?

To transfer a non-titled recreational vehicle, we will need the registration card and/or a bill of sale signed by the seller. Visit the Boats, Snowmobiles, and Off-Highway Vehicles webpage.

5. Do I have a 10-day grace period to renew my vehicle tabs?

If you purchase registration for your vehicle prior to the end of the month in which registration is due, you have 10 days to display the new registration stickers. If purchased after the registration month is over, you do not have a grace period. For more information, visit the MNDOT website.

6. Where do I pay a reinstatement fee?

The License Center staff is unable to accept reinstatement fees. You will need to pay them to an examiner. Call 507-934-7806 with any questions.

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Property Services

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1. Do I need to call Gopher State One Call?

It is Nicollet County Property Services policy to require all persons engaged in excavation activities, who have requested assistance of staff (e.g. soil borings), to contact Gopher State One Call two working days prior to the onsite meeting. The County requires visual marking of all underground facilities within 100’ of the area of activity prior to staff arrival. Furthermore, it is a Minnesota state law that before you start any project that requires digging, you must contact Gopher State One Call at 811 or 1-800-252-1166.

2. When do I need a permit?

Nicollet County's zoning ordinance states a zoning permit shall be required of all persons prior to erection, structural alteration, or relocation of permanent or portable structures or signs. That includes sheds, decks, fences, or anything else that is going to be constructed on or attached to the ground. A permit is not required for new windows, new doors, residing, or reshingling. For full details see section 507.1 of the Zoning Ordinance (PDF) or call our office at 507-934-7070.

3. Is there a way to see the Zoning Ordinance?

You may download a copy of our Zoning Ordinance (PDF) or you may request a copy by mail for $50.

4. Is the lot I want to buy, split, and/or sell okay to build on?

Nicollet County has density standards for new housing in the rural zoning districts. Please call our office at 507-934-7071 or come in to find out how the standards apply to your specific land. Staff will be happy to assist you in learning the requirements for your project.

5. What is WECS?

WECS is an acronym for Wind Energy Conversion Systems.

6. Where are the recycling drop off sites located?

• Klossner at the Nicollet County Highway Shop, Junction County Road 5 and TH 15
• Nicollet at the County Public Works Shop
• Norseland (Lake Prairie) at the Co-Op
• St. Peter at the County Public Works Shop on Sunrise Drive

7. Where is the Household Hazardous Waste Facility and Product Reuse Center and when is it open?

The Household Hazardous Waste Facility and Product Reuse Center is located at 651 Summit Avenue in Mankato.

The facility is open April through October on Tuesday from Noon to 6 p.m. and on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

8. Is there any funding assistance to upgrade a septic system?

We currently have loan money available for residents to upgrade their existing systems. You can call 507-934-7076 to get more information on this.

9. What does the Public Works Department have to do with my request for a zoning permit?

The Nicollet County Property Services division is responsible for permitting rural land use related activities. The Nicollet County Public Works department is responsible for maintenance of 306 miles of roads and Right-of-Way (R/W). Generally, R/W is reserved for maintenance purposes or expansion of existing services. At times, proposed land use activities and road layout may conflict, and could require action by both entities. When this occurs, staff will forward the proposed request to the Assistant Public Works Director/County Engineer and the Public Works Director for review of the proposed location prior to the issuance of the permit

10. Do I have to have a mound [septic system]?

The type of septic system needed is based on the conditions found at each individual site. Usually, soils are the most crucial factor. Your licensed septic system designer will design the appropriate system for your lot based on the state code.

11. When do I need to get my septic system inspected?

By state law, if the system was built less than 5 years ago, the initial inspection is still valid. Any subsequent inspection or inspection of an existing system is valid for 3 years.

• A sale or transfer of property requires your septic system be inspected by a state licensed inspector prior to the sale.
• An increase in the number of bedrooms in your home requires an inspection.
• Any permit issued for an addition to your house or in our shoreland district requires an inspection.

12. If my system needs to be replaced, how long do I have to get that done?

By state law, any system that is considered an imminent public health threat must be upgraded in 10 months. Any other failing system must be upgraded in 2 years if in Shoreland District, or otherwise up to 5 years, provided it does not become an imminent public health threat.

13. Why get a feedlot permit?

A feedlot permit is a certified statement that your operation is in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

14. What can I do about odor from a feedlot I live by?

Nicollet County is an agricultural area, so it is normal to have some odor, dust, noise, and other situations characteristic of agricultural practices. If you live in a rural home near a feedlot, you can expect to have an annoying level of odor for an average of 50 hours per month.

15. Do I need a feedlot permit?

A feedlot permit is required if you have 10 or more animal units on your site at any one time. That would be equal to:

• 10 slaughter steers
• 14 feeder cattle
• 33 finishing hogs

Call Environmental Services at 507-934-7070 if you’re for help figuring animal units.

16. What information will I need to get a feedlot permit?

It all starts with a site inspection. After that you will need designs for any manure holding structures you plan to build, nutrient management plans for the manure you will be generating, a site plan showing what you will be building and various other elements. It is best to call our office at 507-934-7073 and get details based on your project.

17. Where can I build a feedlot in the county?

Nicollet County is zoned primarily agricultural. However, there are setbacks from other land uses for feedlots based on the potential odor from the feedlot.

18. What is the process to establish a feedlot in Nicollet County?

Nicollet County requires a conditional use permit for any feedlot over 300 animal units. That means that there will be a public hearing and site inspection prior to the issuance of your feedlot and zoning permit. Nicollet County is a “delegated county” under the state Feedlot Program. This means that our office can issue permits for your feedlot unless you are planning to build one that is large enough to need a NPDES Permit.

19. Can I drain a wet area on my land?

There are wetland laws which often make it illegal to disturb a wetland. Please call our office at 507-934-7072 and a wetland expert will assist you in answering this. There are various agencies involved in the regulations in this area and we can help you with the needed permits and information.

20. How do I know if a wet area is a wetland?

A qualified individual is needed to identify a wetland. There are 8 various types of wetlands, which may appear wet or not. Please contact NRCS, SWCD, or our office at 507-934-7072 for assistance.

21. What is the gravel tax?

In June 2015, the Nicollet County Board approved the imposition of the Aggregate Material Removal; Production Tax (also known as the Gravel Tax). The tax imposes a production tax on the removal of aggregate from pits, quarries, or deposits located within the county. The proceeds of the tax are to assist the county, as well as cities, and townships in the county with maintenance costs of roads, highways, and bridges; as well as reclamation, conservation or environmental needs. The tax went into effect January 1, 2016. Reporting and remittance forms are available online.

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Property Tax

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1. Can I veiw my tax statement online?

You may view your statement online by clicking on the following link. Beacon Website

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Public Works

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1. Can I reserve 7 Mile Park?

No, park facilities are on a first come, first serve basis. The park caretaker does keep a calendar of events he is informed of. You can contact Mike at 507-995-4099.

2. Who maintains the road that I live on?

There are several different types of roads in Nicollet County: state, county, city, and township. The signs on your road will tell you the road number and which government unit maintains it. Determining who takes care of your road before calling will save you from having to make numerous calls.

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Recorder's Office

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1. How do I obtain a copy of my deed?

Provide your legal description and we can generate a copy for you. Call the Recorder’s Office at 507-934-7320 for more information.

2. What is the size of my lot?

Provide your legal description and we will look up that information on the plat. For more information, visit the Plats webpage.

3. How do I find out if there is an easement on my property?

You may come into the office and search the records which are public information. The Recorder's Office is located at:
501 S. Minnesota Ave.
St. Peter, MN 56082

4. Can I get a copy of the plat?

Yes, but please call 507-934-7320 prior to coming into the office.

5. I cannot find my torrens certificate. What do I do?

Owner’s Duplicate Torrens certificates were no longer produced after January 2000. We can provide a copy of your Original Torrens Certificate. Call the Recorder’s Office at 507-934-7320 to inquire.

6. How can I obtain a copy of my military discharge forms?

We suggest you contact the local Veterans Service Officer. Visit the Veterans Services webpage for more information.

7. How much does a passport book cost?

Passport books vary by the type of applicant applying. Visit the Passport Fees webpage to calculate your fees.

8. How much does a passport card cost?

Passport cards vary by the type of applicant applying. Visit the Passport Fees webpage to calculate your fees.

9. How long does it take to get a passport?

It typically takes 4-6 weeks to receive your passport. To learn about passports, visit the Passports webpage.

10. What do I need to apply for a passport?

You need a picture ID, certified copy of your birth certificate, and 1 passport photo. For more information, view the Passport Application Requirements webpage.

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Sheriff's Office

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1. Where do I obtain an Order for Protection or a Harassment Order?

These orders are issued by the Court Administrator's Office. You may reach them at 507-934-7850.

2. What are the visiting hours for the jail?

Visitation Hours
Tuesday
6 - 7:30 p.m.

Thursday
8 -11 a.m.

Saturday
1 - 4:30 p.m.

3. What are the requirements to visit?

All visitor's must have a valid picture identification, preferably a driver's license. Visitors must be at least 18 years of age or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Visitor's may not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Visitors must be appropriately dressed and they may not have been incarcerated in the jail within the prior 60 days. Visitors must call to schedule a visit.

4. How often am I allowed to visit?

You may visit once per day for 20 minutes on visiting days.

5. What is the address to mail an inmate a letter?

Inmate's Name
Nicollet County Jail
P.O. Box 117
St. Peter, MN 56082

6. What is the phone number for the inmate voicemail?

Ph: 507-931-9931

7. What items may be donated to the jail?

The jail does accept donations of paperback books, jigsaw puzzles, puzzle books, and games depending upon current inventory. Anyone interested in donating these items should email the Jail Programmer or call 507-934-7112.

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Veterans Services

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1. Can I sign up to get my prescriptions from the VA?

Yes and no. First, prescription assistance is available if you are receiving primary health care from the VA. The VA pharmacy does not (normally) fill prescriptions from private physicians. VA doctors must write the prescriptions which means you must be a VA patient. In order to receive primary health care services from the VA, you must either be enrolled with the VA, or you must be receiving either VA compensation or pension benefits. Call our office for an appointment for enrollment for VA medical services.

2. Is there transportation available to the VA Medical Center in Minneapolis?

Both Nicollet County and Blue Earth County offer transportation to the VAMC in Minneapolis from the local area. Nicollet County's van travels on the even weekdays of the month and Blue Earth County travels on the odd weekdays. Call the Nicollet County Veterans Service Office at 507-934-7875 to sign up for transportation, and for details on the time and place for pickup. The cost is $10 per person, either 1-way or 2-way. County transportation is not available to the St. Cloud VAMC.

3. What are your office hours?

The Nicollet County Government Center is open from 8 a.m. To 4:30 p.m., however, the veterans service officer has many responsibilities that occur outside of the government center. We strongly urge you to call 507-934-7871 and ask for an appointment. If you receive the voicemail message, press the pound (#) key to leave an immediate voice message. Be sure to leave your telephone number so we can return your call as soon as possible.

4. Are there local doctors I can see for my care instead of traveling to the VA Medical Centers?

VA Medical Center Minneapolis contracts with St. James Clinic in St. James, MN for a Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC). There is also a CBOC now open in Mankato, MN. These contracts are for a limited number of veterans and space is also limited. Veterans must still enroll through VAMC Minneapolis and then request primary care at the CBOC. Call our office for an appointment, or for more information.

5. I was injured while I was on active duty. How do I get help with my medical needs for that injury?

In general, here is the definition of a service related medical condition: An injury or disease that was caused by, or aggravated by, active military service. As you can see, the definition is painted with very broad strokes. The injury or disease must also be 'chronic', that is, it must be currently present, and there must be a clear connection to your active service. The VA claims process is a complicated one and the Nicollet County service officer stand ready to assist you in developing your claim. Call our office for an appointment to discuss your claim for service connection.

6. What benefits do I get from my active duty service?

There are a wide range of benefits offered, however, eligibility for those benefits varies from veteran to veteran. Some benefits include education benefits, VA Home loan guarantees, health care services, burial benefits, war-time service pension, service-connected disability compensation, and much more. Benefit handbooks are available free of charge from the Veterans Service Office. We also have reading material and pamphlets available for more information, as well as informative video presentations.

7. How do I get a copy of my honorable discharge?

If you have previously brought your discharge papers into the courthouse to have them registered with the County Recorders Office, then you may request a certified copy through the Veteran Service Office. All recorded discharges are now considered private documents under state law and they are available only to the veteran or the veteran's next of kin. Call our office at 507-934-7870, at least 1 day ahead of time so we can arrange for a certified copy to be printed for you. You may also request a copy by emailing our office.