MINUTES & AGENDAS
August, 2007
Special County Board Meeting
August 6, 2007
The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in special session on Monday, August 6, 2007, in the Commissioners’ room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center, with the following members present: Commissioners Arnesen, Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel, Bredeson and Ken Moorman. Also present was County Auditor John W Hoscheid. Chair Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 7:25 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Chair Todd Beckel laid the ground rules for the upcoming budget, these meetings are to be informational and no board action will be taken until all budgets are presented.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the agenda for the special meeting today with additions. Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
The Commissioners acknowledged and discussed the receipt of the RFP’s for Human Resource Director. They will review these again at a later date.
County Recorder, Sue Ney met with the board to discuss County Recorder compliance recording requirements per MN Statutes 357.182. The board acknowledged the receipt of her report showing her status of being 100% in compliance within 11 days for all documents for the previous year.
Meeting with the board to discuss budgets and salaries was Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen.
Commissioner Bredeson excused himself from the meeting at 11:00 a.m.
Motion by Commissioner Moorman to go into closed session for union negotiation discussion. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
The meeting was called in closed session at 12:00 p.m. Present were Commissioners Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel and Moorman. Discussion was had regarding union negotiations.
Chair Todd Beckel adjourned the closed session at 1:05 p.m.
Motion by Commissioner Moorman to re-open the special meeting. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Chair Todd Beckel re-opened the special meeting at 1:06 p.m.
There being no further business before the Board, Chair Todd Beckel declared the meeting in recess at 1:10 p.m.
Attest: Approved: August 14, 2007
______________________________ ___________________________________
John W Hoscheid Todd Beckel
County Auditor Chair of the County Board
Special County Board Meeting
August 7, 2007
The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in special session on Tuesday, August 7, 2007, in the Commissioners’ room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center, with the following members present: Commissioners Arnesen, Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel, Bredeson and Moorman. Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, MIS Director Brent Birkeland, Public Works Director Bruce Hasbargen and Land & Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund. Chair Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 7:10 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Chair Todd Beckel laid the ground rules for the upcoming budget, these meetings are to be informational and no board action will be taken until all budgets are presented.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the agenda for the special meeting today with additions. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
The Technology Committee (Commissioners Todd and Patty Beckel, Brent Birkeland, Josh Stromlund, Bruce Hasbargen and John W Hoscheid) met with the board and discussed setting up a designated account for technology expenditures. The committee recommended an initial $50,000, based on a cost schedule of upcoming and future expenditures presented by Brent Birkeland,
The Board, by consensus, approved the designated technology account starting January 1, 2008, in the amount of $50,000. In addition; the board approved all capital expenditures, approved by the County Board in the revenue funds, will be added to the technology fund and taken out of the respective budgets. The board also stated that additional funding would be determined by the County Board and the Technology Committee at a later date.
Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board and requested changes to his budget. It was the consensus of the board to accept these changes.
County Sheriff, Dallas Block met with the board and reviewed the E911 grant and budget. The County Board discussed the possibility of alternatives for dispatch funding through the grant. The County Board requested the County Auditor, John W Hoscheid to adjust the E911 budget and to reflect the increase in revenue with expenditures and bring back recommendations to the next board meeting.
County Sheriff, Dallas Block also discussed with the board his need for an administrative assistant.
Public Works Director Bruce Hasbargen, Bill Sindelir, Jeff Pelland, Marti Carlson and Ed Spires Solid Waste Supervisor met with the board and recommended step increases for their various staff. Chair Todd Beckel acknowledged and thanked them for the recommendations and stated that the County Board will advise them of their decision at a later date.
The County Board discussed salaries and a system to determine salary increases for both elected officials and department heads. They also discussed a system for determining requests from department heads for performance raises for their staff.
The County Board requested the County Auditor, John W Hoscheid to finalize all budgets and salaries and present them at the NWA county board meeting on August 21, 2007. The County Board also requested the County Auditor to set aside a reserve of $30,000 for a building fund starting January 1, 2008.
There being no further business before the Board, Chair Todd Beckel declared the meeting in recess at 1:10 p.m.
Attest: Approved: August 14, 2007
______________________________ ___________________________________
John W Hoscheid Todd Beckel
County Auditor Chair of the County Board
Special County Board Meeting
August 13, 2007
The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in special session on Monday, August 13, 2007, in the Commissioners’ room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center, with the following members present: Commissioners Arnesen, Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel, Bredeson and Moorman. Also present was County Auditor John W Hoscheid. Chair Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Chair Todd Beckel laid the ground rules for the upcoming budget, these meetings are to be informational and no board action will be taken until all budgets are presented.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the agenda for the special meeting today, with additions. Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
The County Board discussed the 2008 budget regarding staff employees and how to structure step increases for 2008. Various options were discussed; with the consensus of the board to formalize this at the NWA Board meeting, August 21, 2007.
The Department Heads met with the board at 8:30 a.m. The County Board Chair, Todd Beckel shared with the County Department Heads the 2008 salary adjustments. A formal motion will be made at a later date.
The Department Heads requested an update from the County Board on the search for a County Attorney and Human Resource Director. The County Board shared their opinions regarding their search and will continue to identify potential candidates.
Chair Todd Beckel recessed the meeting at 10:00 a.m. as the union committee met with the union representatives for discussion.
Chair Todd Beckel re-opened the special meeting at 11:30 a.m.
The County Board continued the discussion on options for staff employee steps.
There being no further business before the Board, Chair Todd Beckel declared the meeting in recess at 12:45 p.m.
Attest: Approved: August 28, 2007
______________________________ ___________________________________
John W Hoscheid Todd Beckel
County Auditor Chair of the County Board
Commissioner Proceedings
August 14, 2007
The Lake of the Woods County Board met in regular session on Tuesday, August 14, 2007, in the Commissioners’ Room in the Lake of the Woods County Government Center with the following members present: Commissioners Bredeson, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Arnesen and Moorman. Also present were County Auditor John W. Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, Penny Mio Hirst and John Oren. Chairman Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the agenda with the following addendum items: Travel for Josh Stromlund to the Minnesota Association of Planning and Zoning Administrators Annual Conference in Alexandria on October 3-5, 2007, Wayne Bendickson to PACE Course in Willmar on August 27-30, 2007, JOBZ letter. Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Brent Birkeland to Alexandria on September 5-7 for MACO Counties Conference; Amy Ballard to Duluth on August 20-22 for Aging Conference and to St. Cloud on September 26-28 for Rule 25 Assessor Training; Travel for Cindy Kroeger and Rita Krause to Brainerd on October 7-10 for Child Support Workshops; Janet Rudd, Dale Boretski and Darren Olson to Bemidji on October 3 for MN Department of Public Safety Seminar, Josh Stromlund to the MN Association of Planning and Zoning Administrators Annual Conference in Alexandria on October 3-5, 2007 and Wayne Bendickson to PACE Course in Willmar on August 27-30.
Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the minutes of July 24, 30 & 31 and August 6 & 7, 2007 minutes. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Social Services Financial Officer, Robyn Sonstegard met with the board requesting approval of claims.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the claims against the county as follows:
Commissioners’ Warrants $51,885.28
Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Rita Krause, Child Support Officer met with the board and reviewed the 2006 Child Support Funding and Collections and informed the board that Governor Pawlenty proclaimed August as Child Support Awareness Month..
Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to authorize Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler to advertise and hire a Social Worker at Grade 12. Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval of claims, rescinding motion from July 24, 2007 meeting for Government Center North Building, approval for closing of Motor Vehicle/DL Station on October 3, 2007 for Fall Seminar and approval for Public Information Request Form.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the claims against the county as follows:
Revenue $ 64,817.25
Road & Bridge $ 76,438.75
County Development $ 25,200.00
Solid Waste $ 25,463.71
191,919.71
WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION
WARRANTS APPROVED ON 8/15/2007 FOR PAYMENT 8/17/2007
AMOUNT VENDOR NAME AMOUNT VENDOR NAME
412.58 AMERI PRIDE LINEN & APPAREL SE 2045.66 ANDY’S GARAGE, INC.
568.37 AUTO VALUE 25000.00 BAUDETTE-LOW AIRPORT
1962.00 BREEZY POINT RESORT 308.21 CANON FINANCIAL SERVICES
6555.50 MARK CHAPMAN 11219.18 CO-OP SERVICES, INC.
31519.78 CONTECH CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS 335.82 DIRECT SAFETY COMPANY
10587.84 DLT SOLUTIONS, INC 4195.60 ESRI
342.69 FORESTRY SUPPLIERS, INC 340.17 GEROY’S BUILDING CENTER
1350.00 LEE HANCOCK 529.04 HOLTE IMPLEMENT, INC
3970.39 HOWARD’S OIL COMPANY 447.44 LAKE OF THE WOODS FOODS
1087.94 LAKE ROAD DIESEL INC 422.81 LAKES GAS CO.
455.00 LEROY LAVALLA 4043.51 LOW HIGHWAY DEPT
1064.00 LOW TRANSFER INC 11466.00 MAR-KIT LANDFILL
1090.55 MARVIN HOME CENTER 1808.10 JIMMY MCCOURT
400.00 M.D. MCGEE MD,PA 436.50 SCOTT MCKAY
463.50 METRO FORMS, INC 2761.77 MN COUNTIES COMPUTER CO-OP
568.75 MN STATE AUDITOR’S 1245.87 JEROME MOLINE
5355.02 LAW MOREN 1520.00 NORTHERN SERVICES (DBA)
612.50 NORTHWEST ANGLE&ISLAND FREIGHT 2348.25 PEART & ASSOCIATES, INC
502.19 POWERPLAN 2742.88 R & Q TRUCKING, INC
1200.00 RAMSEY COUNTY MEDICAL EXAMINER 4000.00 RESERVE ACCOUNT
414.17 ROAD MACHINERY & SUPPLIES CO 5218.50 ROLYAN BUOYS
639.94 RODERICK RONE JR 1000.00 ROSEAU COUNTY SHERIFF
3767.70 DONALD SALVERDA & ASSOCIATES 1750.00 SJOBERG’S INC
369.00 SOFTREE TECHNICAL SYSTEMS INC 3337.10 STRATA CORP, INC
604.93 DAVID THOMAS 546.31 TONY DORN, INC.
12813.00 VANGUARD APPRAISALS, INC 1816.25 WALKER PIPE & SUPPLY
2949.71 WAYNE’S BODY SHOP-DBA 625.00 WIDSETH SMITH NOLTING&ASST INC
1887.99 ZIEGLER, INC
53 PAYMENTS LESS THAN $300 6,894.70
FINAL TOTAL $191,919.71
Further moved to authorize the payment of auditor’s warrants as follows:
July 24, 2007 $1,055,208.22
July 31, 2007 $ 68,304.72
August 7 2007 $ 335,180.17
August 8, 2007 $ 49,622.68
Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to rescind the following motion from July 24, 2007 board meeting due to contractor error in bid. “Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to accept the bid of JD’s United States Seamless Inc. for option 2 of the proposal for $24,120.00 for Marvin’s Infinity windows with the funding from the Social Services reserves. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.” Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Moorman to authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to close the Motor Vehicle/DL Station on October 3, 2007 for staff to attend the Department of Public Safety 2007 Fall Seminar according to Minnesota Deputy Registrar Rule 7406.500, subpart 2a and 2b. Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the policy for the “Public Information Request Form” as presented. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Commissioner Bredeson informed the board that North West Community Action has a program available called “Community Seconds” in which counties and cities can participate with income guidelines to borrow closing cost to individuals for mortgages. The consensus of the board was to have Commissioner Bredeson look into this program.
The meeting was called to recess at 9:53 a.m. and reconvened at 10:00 a.m. as follows:
Joyce Palm and Charlene McGraw, representing Lake of the Woods Alumni Association met with the board requesting financial support for $2,500 for the purpose of the development of a Web Site and three years of Web Site Maintenance. The board informed them that funding would be determined soon.
Tim Flathers from the Headwaters Regional Development Commission met with the board to discuss a proposal for source of funding in assisting with amendments of Lake of the Woods Zoning Ordinance(incorporating with the Rainy Rapid River Ordinance), amending the sub-division standards to be in compliance with the State Standards.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson that Lake of the Woods County Commissioners requests that Headwaters Regional Development Commission proceed with the pre- application to Northwest Minnesota Foundation for $12,000 and the HRDC Successful Community Challenge Grant for $6,000 for assistants in funding the amendments of the Lake of the Woods County Ordinances and authorize Chairman Todd Beckel to sign. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
County Recorder Sue Ney met with the board to discuss waiver of execution fee of Passports for county employees and to present the Final Plat of Rivard’s River Acres.
Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the County Recorder, acting as the duly appointed Passport Acceptance Agent for Lake of the Woods County, to waive the portion of the passport fee that is identified as the “execution fee” for all county employees; all other cost incurred by the employee in order to obtain a passport are solely the employee’s responsibility. Seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the Final Plat of RIVARDS RIVER ACRES and authorize the Chairman and County Auditor to sign. Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
County Surveyor, Donn Rasmussen met with the board to discuss the 2008 Surveyor’s Budget. Donn explained that the budgets have remained the same for several years, while the costs for doing business have increased. He felt it seemed reasonable and fair that there should be an increase.
The meeting was called to recess at 11:10 a.m. and reconvened at 11:15 a.m. as follows:
Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board requesting approval for the County to agree to be the fiscal agent for the Trunk Highway 11 Task Force Committee, approval for allocation of funds to the Trunk Highway 11 Task Force Committee, Resolution of support for deficient bridge replacement and motion to accept Rivard’s River Road.
Motion by Commissioner Moorman for the County to agree that Lake of the Wood County Auditor be the fiscal agent for the Trunk Highway 11 Task Force Committee. Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve a request for the County to allocate funds for $2,000 with the funding from the unallocated account to the Trunk Highway 11 Task Force Committee. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
The following resolution was proposed by Commissioner Moorman and moved for adoption:
RESOLUTION NO. 07-08-01
Deficient Bridge Replacement
WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has reviewed the pertinent data on bridges requiring replacement, rehabilitation, or removal, supplied by local citizenry and local units of government, and
WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has identified those bridges that are high priority and that require replacement, rehabilitation, or removal within the next five years;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the following deficient bridges are high priority and Lake of the Woods County intends to replace, rehabilitate, or remove these bridges as soon as possible when funds are available,
| Old Bridge Number | Road Number or Name | Total Project Cost | Township or State Bridge Funds | Federal Funds | Local or State Aid Funds | Proposed Construction Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 95304 | T-167 | 100,000 | 90,000 | 10,000 | 2011 | |
FURTHERMORE, Lake of the Woods County does hereby request authorization to replace, rehabilitate, or remove such bridges; and
FURTHERMORE, Lake of the Woods County does hereby request financial assistance with eligible approach grading and engineering costs on township bridges, as provided by law.
Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was duly carried.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to accept Rivard’s River Road within Rivard’s River Acres Plat in part of Govt. Lots 1 and 2, Section 8, and part of Govt. Lot 1, Section 5, T-160-N, R-30-W, as unorganized township road No. 107, and acknowledge that said road has been constructed to minimum unorganized township road standards. The road is approximately 1,475 feet in length and shall be classified at maintenance level “C”. Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Arrowhead Library System (ALS) Director, Jim Weikum met with the board and discussed that the level of local support required under State Statue for the 2008 library support in Lake of the Woods County would be approximately$33,390. Jim also informed the board that ALS has been licensed and is preparing to provide all libraries and residents with access to a new “downloadable” audio book service that has proved popular in many libraries around the country.
The meeting was called to recess at 12:00 p.m. and reconvened at 1:05 p.m. as follows:
The meeting was called to recess at 1:06 p.m. and as advertised, the Planning Commission was opened as follows:
Land and Water Planning Director discussed the Initial Plat of Morris Point Estates. No comments were heard form the floor and no correspondence were received.
The Planning Commissioner was closed at 1:10 p.m. and the regular meeting reconvened as follows:
Mike Hirst, Feedlot Officer met with the board and presented the 2007 Annual Feedlot Report and the 2008 Feedlot Work Plan.
Motion by Commissioner Moorman to approve the Lake of the Woods County annual Feedlot Report for 2007 and authorize the Chairman to sign. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the 2008 Lake of the Woods County Feedlot Work Plan and authorize the Chairman to sign. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
The meeting was called to recess at 1:44 p.m. and reconvened at 1:53 p.m. as follows:
County Sheriff, Dallas Block and Emergency Management Director, Holly House met with the board to discuss the Communications Interoperability Program, which consist of building a regional communication plan to improve interoperability and, ultimately, joint response to emergencies. Holly also informed the board that the Hazard Mitigation Plan has been approved by the state and now the county needs to hold a public hearing for review of the plan.
Motion by Commissioner Moorman to set September 25, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. as the date and time of the public hearing for the Hazard Mitigation Plan. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Colleen Hoffman from Hoffman, Dale and Swenson, PLLC audit firm met with the board to present the Lake of the Woods County 2006 Audit interview.
The board discussed and revised a letter to Governor Pawlenty in regards to JOBZ for ANI Pharmaceuticals in Lake of the Woods County.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to authorize the Chairman to sign the letter to Governor Pawlenty in regards to JOBZ for ANI Pharmaceutical. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
With no further business before the board, Chairman Todd Beckel called the meeting to recess at 4:25 p.m.
Attest: Approved: August 28, 2007
_________________________ _____________________________
John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor Todd Beckel, Chairman
Commissioners’ Proceedings
August 21, 2007
The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, August 21, 2007, at the Angle Inlet School, Angle Inlet, with the following members present: Commissioners Arnesen, Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel, Moorman and Bredeson. Others present on behalf of the County were: County Land & Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund and County Auditor John W. Hoscheid. Also present were Northwest Angle area residents. Commissioner Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Motion made by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the agenda. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Paul Colson met with the board and discussion was had regarding the NWA Fire levy. The County Board noted that the NWA Fire levy for 2008 is set at the same rate as 2007.
Commissioner Arnesen gave an update to the NWA area residents on the Arrowhead Library System and the ability to now download books.
County Auditor, John W Hoscheid discussed a request to close the county offices on Christmas Eve for the full day instead of the one-half designated holiday per policy schedule.
Motion made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to close the county offices for the full day on Christmas Eve, Monday, December 24, 2007. This would give the employees a full day of holiday pay instead of the scheduled one-half holiday pay. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Discussion was had regarding the audit by Hoffman, Dale & Swenson PLLC. It was agreed to table further discussion regarding: timesheets, CSP checkbook, highway contract change orders and new policies; until the next regular board meeting, Tuesday, August 28, 2007.
Todd Sellers, Executive Director with Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation met with the board. He gave an update on the progress of the Foundation and the projects that they are currently working on. He asked for a renewed and updated resolution of support for the Foundation.
The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Bredeson and moved for adoption:
Lake of the Woods County
Resolution: Letter of Support for
Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation
Resolution No. 07-08-03
“WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods is the largest lake in Minnesota;
WHEREAS, the health and sustainability of Lake of the Woods is of vital importance to the social and economic sustainable development of Lake of the Woods County;
WHEREAS, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has placed Lake of the Woods on its draft list of impaired waters, for proposed listing on the 2008 EPA 303(d) list of impaired waters;
WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods is a boundary water as defined in the Boundary Waters Treaty of 1909;
WHEREAS, the 1925 Lake of the Woods Convention and Protocol assigned certain water level related responsibilities to the International Joint Commission; the International Joint Commission at present has no direct responsibilities for Lake of the Woods water quality but since 1965, has monitored and reported to governments on Rainy River water quality, a major tributary and source of water to Lake of the Woods;
WHEREAS, the International Joint Commission has brought concerns over potentially deteriorating water quality in the Lake of the Woods to the attention of the governments of the United States and Canada, and has recommended investigation by the International Joint Commission in cooperation with appropriate agencies, including those from Minnesota, Ontario and Manitoba; and
WHEREAS, the International Joint Commission could help coordinate scientific investigation, monitoring and recommended actions across the multiple jurisdictions around the Lake of the Woods to ensure timely and effective investigation;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS:
THAT, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby supports the Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation in its request that the question of Lake of the Woods water quality be referred to the International Joint Commission for examination and report.
THAT, a copy of this resolution shall be forwarded to the State of Minnesota, the US Department of State and the Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation.”
Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to vote was unanimously carried.
The County Board discussed 2008 salary steps for employees with the final decision to be formulized at the next regular board meeting, Tuesday, August 28, 2007.
County Auditor, John W Hoscheid presented a packet of 2008 Con-Con requests received and distribution spreadsheets. The County Board will take formal action at the next regular board meeting, Tuesday, August 28, 2007.
Land & Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and gave an update on the alternative shoreland management standards with discussion following.
The County Board discussed the MN Department of Corrections/Lake of the Woods County DWI Court grant.
The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Moorman and moved for adoption:
Lake of the Woods County DWI Court
Resolution of Approval by Local Unit of Government
Resolution No. 07-08-02
WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County DWI Court is a post-conviction problem-solving approach that uses the power of the court in collaboration with other criminal justice partners and community members (prosecutors, defense counsel, treatment providers, probation officers, law enforcement, educational and vocational experts, community leaders, clergy and others) to closely monitor the defendant’s progress toward sobriety and recovery through ongoing treatment, frequent and random drug testing, regular mandatory check-in court appearances, and the use of a range of immediate sanctions and incentives to foster behavior change to reduce criminal behavior and enhance public safety;
WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods Commissioner’s authorizes the Board Chair and the Interim County Attorney to sign the drug court funding application program information sheet;
BE IT RESOLVED, that the County of Lake of the Woods certify that the Lake of the Woods County DWI Court, being located within our jurisdiction, has Lake of the Woods County’s approval to apply for and receive funding from the State Court Administrator’s Office, State of Minnesota.
Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Commissioner Arnesen gave a powerline update. He shared with the residents a tentative agreement that has been reached for easements and a possible go ahead for the new powerline. He said there would be additional information coming in the near future.
Brian Sage met with the board regarding the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) permit travel to the Northwest Angle without a passport. Brian requested a formal letter/resolution of support from the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). He stated that all comments must be received by August 27, 2007.
Motion made by Commissioner Arnesen to support the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) permit travel to the Northwest Angle without a passport and to submit a letter/resolution to the Department of Homeland Security. Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same was put to a vote and carried unanimously.
The County Board directed County Auditor, John W Hoscheid to write and submit the letter/resolution of support of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners.
The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Arnesen and moved for adoption:
Lake of the Woods County
Resolution of Support of
Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)
Without a Passport
Resolution No. 07-08-03
WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has a community at the Northwest Angle not contiguous by land with the rest of the state of Minnesota, except by passing through a portion of Manitoba;
WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has residents and visitors of the Northwest Angle, and believes this community is unique and are therefore extremely concerned about the impact of the proposed WHTI rule on this community;
WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Commissioners are concerned that requiring all travelers to this community to possess a passport, passport card, or other federally-issued identification document, as proposed in the Department’s Notice of Proposed Rule, will cause extreme hardship on this community’s economy and the safety and well being of its residents;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the County of Lake of the Woods hereby supports that the final rule have consideration for the land implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative permit travel to the Northwest Angle without a passport;
FURTHERMORE, BE IT RESOLVED, Lake of the Woods County believes that a combination of a driver’s license and birth certificate, which the Department has deemed to be WHTI- compliant during at least the first six months of 2008, should be deemed as acceptable documentation for all travel to and from the Northwest Angle for the foreseeable future.
Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
County Land & Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund updated the Board of Commissioners on the sewer disposal.
County Board Chair Todd Beckel discussed the calcium chloride application and questioned attending residents if it was working. All residents concurred that it is working excellent. He then mentioned some funding options; one of which the calcium chloride application cost would be levied through NWA Township Road & Bridge for the upcoming years.
There being no further business before the Board, Chair Todd Beckel called the meeting in recess at 12:35 p.m.
Attest: Approved: August 28 2007
______________________________ _____________________________
John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor Todd Beckel, Board Chair
Commissioner Proceedings
August 28, 2007
The Lake of the Woods County Board met in regular session on Tuesday, August 28, 2007, in the Commissioners’ Room in the Lake of the Woods County Government Center with the following members present: Commissioners Bredeson, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Arnesen and Moorman. Also present were: County Auditor John W. Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, Penny Mio Hirst and John Oren. Chairman Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the agenda with the following addendum items: Adult Rehabilitative Mental Health (ARMH), Northwest Radio and Transportation meeting, consideration of Initial Plat of Morris Point, Local Water Plan Challenge Grant, Northwest Minnesota Foundation, Joint Powers Entity, University of MN Extension and County Board Levy. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the consent agenda as follows: travel for Martine Carlson to St. Cloud on August 27-28 to attend the state aid Finance Task Force Committee Meeting and Shelley Phillippe to Duluth on October 2-5 to attend the MFWCAA Annual Conference. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the minutes of August 13, 14 and 21, 2007. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board requesting approval of claims and recertification of the ARMH contract.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the claims against the county as follows:
Commissioners’ Warrants $17,059.54
Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Moorman to authorize Chairman Todd Beckel to sign the ARMH contract. Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
The board discussed the Community Support Program (CSP) checking account with Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler. The board requested that Nancy draft a policy for the usage of the CSP checking account, have the policy reviewed by Hoffman, Dale & Swenson PPLC and bring back to the board for approval.
The board discussed the 2006 Hoffman, Dale & Swenson audit and their concerns regarding county employee time sheets. The board requested that County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid send a memo to all department heads reminding them that county employees need to sign their time sheets. The board also discussed having a Change Order Policy for highway contracts. This was tabled until 11:00 a.m.
Land and Water Planning Director, met with the board requesting approval of the Local Water Plan Challenge Grant and the consideration of the Initial Plat of Morris Point.
Motion by Commissioner Moorman to request the Chairman to sign the 2008 Local Water Plan Challenge Grant in effect, for the time period of July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2009. Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the Initial Plat of Morris Point Plat. Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Baudette Bay Hockey Classic Committee Chair, Jeff Hovde and Coordinator Sara Thompson met with the board requesting funding for the 2008 Baudette Bay Hockey Classic II, which will be held on the Baudette Bay on February 9, 2008. The board informed them that their request would be considered later in the day.
Depot Preservation Alliance Treasurer, Jeff Poolman met with the board requesting funding for the Depot. The board informed him that his request would be considered later in the day.
The meeting was called to recess at 10:32 a.m. and reconvened 10:40 a.m. as follows:
Chairman Todd Beckel discussed with the board the 2008 Step increase for county employees.
The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Arnesen and moved for adoption:
Resolution No. 07-08-05
Employee Step Increases
WHEREAS; Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners has set a three-year plan for employee step increases based on seniority and performance;
WHEREAS; This plan consists of all eligible employees who receive consecutive positive performance reviews; to receive a one step increase over the period of the next 3 years in accordance with the Lake of the Woods County Compensation Plan;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED; that all eligible employees hired before 1990 and who have received a positive performance review, qualify for a step increase January 1, 2008.
Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board to discuss the access on CSAH 8 motion and to discuss the Change Order Policy for highway contracts.
Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to accept the Public Works Director’s recommendation to restrict access off County State Aid Highway along Bostic Creek to Off Highway Vehicles use only. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Moorman to direct Public Works Director to provide an over run/under run report for each highway contract. Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to adopt the following salary schedule, including longevity, for elected officials for the year 2008 as follows: County Auditor $57,288.24; County Recorder $50,036.20; County Treasurer $49,982.20 and County Sheriff $65,314.06. Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to adopt the following salary schedule, including longevity, for appointed department heads for the year 2008 as follows: County Assessor $57,362.63; MIS Director $53,389.54; County Veterans Officer $17,741.00; Land and Water Planning Director $54,908.33; County Emergency Management Director $23,900.00; Public Works Director $92,556.60 and Social Service Director $59,132.63. Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to adopt the County Commissioners salary of $15,300 for the year 2008; and to adopt the County Board Chair salary of $16,300 for the year 2008. Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve a 3% salary adjustment for all county employees excluding non-elected and elected department heads. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
The meeting was called to recess at 12:05 p.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m. as follows:
Commissioner Todd Beckel reported to the board on the meeting he attended for the Communications Interoperability Program. This group will be preparing a budget and a plan regarding regional communications.
Commissioner Moorman reported on the meeting he attended for the AMC Transportation advisory board. The AMC board decided that they would endorse the passing of the gas tax increase of 10 cents and a metro city tax of 05 cents.
The meeting was called to recess at 1:10 p.m. and as advertised, the Public Hearing for County Ordinance was opened. Public that attended were: Dave Marhula and Mike Reed.
Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund went through the proposed changes to the Lake of the Woods Zoning Ordinances that the Comprehensive Land Use Planning Board recommended.
The Public Hearing will continue on September 11, 2007.
The regular meeting was called to open session at 2:36 p.m.
Interim County Attorney, Michelle Moren met with the board and gave an update from the Attorney’s office.
The meeting was called to recess at 3:04 p.m. and reconvened at 3:12 p.m. as follows:
County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval of claims, approval of liquor license, 2008 health insurance rates, Joint Powers entity needs, and University of MN Extension Committee meeting.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the claims against the county as follows:
Revenue $ 34,661.20
Road & Bridge $ 13,225.09
County Development $ 758.36
Solid Waste $ 1,178.54
49,823.19
WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION
WARRANTS APPROVED ON 8/27/2007 FOR PAYMENT 8/31/2007
AMOUNT VENDOR NAME AMOUNT VENDOR NAME
1135.00 BORDUN TRUCKING, LTD 750.00 BULLBERRY SYSTEMS, INC
1303.63 DELL MARKETING, LP 20822.00 ELK RIVER CHRYSLER, INC
1330.00 EMERGENCY FILM GROUP 1500.00 GM CONSTRUCTION INC
4880.00 HOFFMAN, DALE, & SWENSON, PLLC 2578.88 JAKE’S QUALITY TIRE INC
1172.50 LAVALLA SAND & GRAVEL INC 463.10 MN DEPT OF TRANSP
375.00 MN OFFICE OF ENTERPRISE TECHNO 489.78 NORTHLAND FIRE PROTECTION
647.04 NW MN HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS 500.00 RASMUSSEN RENOVATIONS
650.00 MICHAEL REED 760.15 RODERICK RONE JR
1225.00 T & M SALES DBA 355.87 T R JOBBING
758.36 UNIVERSITY OF MN 515.08 WEST GROUP
4815.45 WOODY’S SERVICE
24 PAYMENTS LESS THAN $300 2,796.35
FINAL TOTAL $49,823.19
Further moved to authorize the payment of auditor’s warrants as follows:
August 14, 2007 1,066.86
August 15, 2007 9,110.45
August 21, 2007 583,087.68
August 21, 2007 125,163.98
Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the On-Sale, Off-Sale intoxicating Liquor License and Cigarette License for North Point 07, LLC, DBA North Point Bar and Grill from October 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008, contingent upon the approval from the County Sheriff and Interim County Attorney. Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
John informed the board of the following correspondence: Northwest Minnesota Foundation (received the confirmation for them to proceed with the application of funding for the amendments of Lake of the Woods Zoning Ordinance and amending the sub-division standards to be consistent with State Statutes); University of Minnesota Extension (invitation for attending a workshop on “Committees that Work: Common Traps-Creative Solutions”) and Hubbard County levy.
Commissioner Bredeson informed the board that the BWSR tour went well.
Commissioner Bredeson spoke with the board about raising the cap on county contribution for health insurance.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to set the 2008 county contribution for family health insurance up to $875.00 per month and the single health insurance up to $525.00 per month. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to offer county employees the following Health Insurance Major Medical plans for 2008: $500 and $1,000 deductible with preventive care and $1,200 and $2,500 Health Savings Account (HSA). For the HSA plans only, any excess county contribution will be deposited directly into the employees health savings account. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.
The board approved the following requests for the Con Con distribution for 2008:
Baudette Arena – $15,000, Williams Arena – $5,000, Baudette Bay Hockey Classic – $8,000, Baudette Economic Development/Jt Pwrs – $25,000, Depot Preservation- $2,500, LOW Humane Society – $1,000, LOW School Alumni Foundation – $2,500, Pequana Playhouse – $500, School District 390/Enrichment Program – $2,500, U/M Extension $7,000, Williams Public Library – $500, LOW Sr Fishing – $500 and Take A Kid Fishing – $600.
With no further business before the board, Chairman Todd Beckel called the meeting to recess at 4:30 p.m.
Attest: Approved:
____________________________ _____________________________
John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor Todd Beckel, Chairman