Local officials from Sherburne County are slated to ditch their desks for a little downtime at Los Ortizes' Mexican Restaurant. In what's being chalked up as a social affair, the Board of Commissioners plans to meet on May 7 for a casual midday meal, sans the usual county talk.

This isn't your typical backroom deal scenario, though—the public's got an open invite to drop by and play spectator. The commissioners have made it clear that no county business will be on the menu during this sit-down. Bruce Messelt, a bigwig over at the Sherburne County Administration, confirmed that it's all about the camaraderie. "No county business will be discussed, and no agenda is prepared for this social gathering," according to officials.

The luncheon, penciled in for 12:30 p.m. or sometime close to it, is setting up shop at 4068 Bank Street in Becker. If you've got questions or just need to know more, Messelt's the man to talk to—he can be reached at (763) 765-3007 or hit up his inbox at [email protected].

While some might raise an eyebrow at a majority of a governing body hanging out without the usual formalities, it's above board as long as they're keeping shop talk off the table. Sherburne County is putting transparency front and center, ensuring taxpayers that their elected representatives aren't mixing business with their enchiladas. Attending members of the public will be accommodated to observe this gathering, making sure things stay as clear as a freshly cleaned glass.