Minnesota is advancing efforts to strengthen Medicaid anti-fraud systems. The Department of Human Services, working with Optum, has completed the first phase of a one-year project to develop an automated pre-payment review system for Medicaid claims. Over the past 90 days, Optum reviewed nearly four years of claims in 14 high-risk service areas, flagging items that need additional review before payment.
Officials say the work is not a measure of fraud but identifies areas where policy clarification or provider training may be needed. Over the next nine months, the state will refine the system to reduce fraud risk, improve efficiency, and investigate suspicious activity when necessary.
For more information on Minnesota’s Medicaid program integrity efforts, visit the state’s Medicaid program integrity webpage.
By Mani Souphom – R & J Broadcasting, Inc. | Tuesday, February 10, 2026
WARROAD, MINN. – The Warroad City Council held its regular meeting Monday, Feb. 9, approving a $10,000 GIS aerial mapping update to improve how the city tracks utilities and plans for growth. The cost will be split among the street, water, electric, and sewer departments. Council members said the update, which hasn’t been completed since the Hampton development, will help the city maintain accurate data for newer areas and could last five to six years.
Mayor Tom Goldsmith emphasized the city’s focus on preventative maintenance to ensure the quality and reliability of city infrastructure for residents.
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Council members also discussed the condition of aging lift station pumps, noting that replacing four smaller pumps could cost nearly $80,000. Dan Trosen from the Utility Department said the city is borrowing pumps from other stations to maintain service and that a full replacement plan has not yet been finalized.
Goldsmith added that the updated GIS data will help guide future growth and development in Warroad.
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Other business included the resignation of Police Officer Connor Adams, who will leave for Elk River, with his final shift set for Feb. 13. The city will conduct an exit interview.
The council unanimously approved reappointments to the Warroad Housing Authority Board, which oversees Young Manor, and also approved several special events, including the Yeti-fest on March 14 and multiple bingo events at the Hampton Inn.
KQ92 and KRWB will continue to provide updates on Warroad City Council meetings and city developments.
The Badger School is celebrating a strong showing in FCCLA competition, with several students qualifying for the State Leadership Conference this March. Advancing to state are Emily Burkel, Adysen Gregerson, Avearah Hanson, Ava Warne, and Delyla Carpenter.
In total, 67 students competed for a chance to move on, with only those earning a score of 50 or higher advancing to the state level. The competition doesn’t stop there—top performers at state will have an even bigger opportunity ahead.
The top two competitors in each category will qualify for the FCCLA National Leadership Conference, set for July in Washington, D.C. Congratulations to all the Badger students who earned their place and best of luck at state.
