May 9, 2023

May 9, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, May 9, 2023 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:00a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Buck Nordlof, Ed Arnesen, Jon Waibel, Cody Hasbargen and Joe Grund. Also present was Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: PILT Letter of Support

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of April 25, 2023.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $18,025.18; Commissioners Warrants $3,764.21; Commissioners Warrants $7,046.61.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $31,389.93; Road & Bridge $60,520.67; Social Services $1,300.00; County Development $1,600.00; Solid Waste $26,378.50; EDA $10,765.00.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 5/09/2023 For Payment 5/12/2023

Vendor Name Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 11,727.62

Farmers Union Oil company 2,236.36

Guardian Fleet Safety 3,685.13

Headwaters Regional Development Commiss 10,765.00

Howard’s Oil Company 3,224.76

KRIS Engineering Inc 14,444.04

Lake Superior College 2,075.00

Little Falls Machine, Inc 9,269.25

LOW County Auditor-Treasurer 19,675.62

LOW Highway Dept 4,813.75

Mar-Kit Landfill 11,398.00

Mn Dept Of Transportation 3,159.30

R & Q Trucking, Inc 3,055.00

Rainy Lake Oil, Inc 2,643.03

WIDSETH 2,850.00

53  Payments less than 2000  26,932.24

Final Total: 131,954.10

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: April 26,2023 for $1,857.75; May 3, 2023 for $66,403.76.

Letter of Support

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to draft a letter of support for Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILT) legislation. 

Legislative Update

Commissioner Ed Arnesen gave a legislative update and his time in Washington D.C. that included: Tourism, Williams School, Law Enforcement Building, PILT, and Safe Boat.

Historical Society 

Lake of the Woods County Museum Director Lindsay Marshall gave an update on various fundraising the Historical Society has done in an effort to raise money for a new roof. It was the consensus of the board to discuss the remaining balance for the Lake of the Woods County Museum roof in the ARPA work session following the meeting. 

Snowmobile Trail Updates

Lake of the Woods Drifters representatives Mariah Mollberg, and Randy Orton and NWA Edgriders representative Joe Laurin gave the board an update on various trail projects and the equipment used to groom the trails. They also informed the board of rerouted trails do to the swamps.

Fire Department Air Compressor Request

Brad Levasseur updated the board on a need for a new air compressor for the Baudette Fire Department that could expand the capability of air capacity during a structure fire. He presented quotes for an estimate of what a new air compressor would cost for the fire department. It was the consensus of the board to discuss this request during the ARPA work session following the meeting.

Public Works

County Beaver Bounty

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to raise the County Beaver Bounty from $45.00 to $75.00 based on the average of surrounding areas effective immediately.

Approval of CaCl Bids

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the calcium chloride bid from Knife River in the amount of $147,060.00 for the mainland and the bid from Forts Distributors in the amount of $38,400 for the NWA.

Handicap Toilet at Boy Scout Park

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve a handicap accessible toilet at the boy scout park for the summer season in the amount of $1000.00.

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl discussed the missing dock at Clementson park, the need to include Williams school mowing in the parks budget, the possibility of using FEMA dollars to repair damaged roads, brushing at the NWA, and spring clean-up.

JD 62 Bill

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl informed the board that there is a brushing bill for JD 62 in the amount of $2,079.00. Roseau County will receive the bill.

Ditch Authority

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the Ditch Authority.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the payment to Roseau County for Lake of the Woods County portion of the JD 62 brushing bill. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the Ditch Authority and open the regular meeting.

IJC Grant- Southern Shore Barrier Island Study

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl informed the board of a survey study of Pine Island that will be used to understand the flow of the water and how to support the island. The IJC Grant if approved will cover the remaining cost of the project, however, Mr. Pirkl is requesting that the board approve up to $21,500.00 in the event the grant application is not approved so the project may continue.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve up to $21, 500.00 for the Pine Island study in the event the grant does not cover the funds.

Sheriff

Stonegarden Sheriff Salary

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following:

AMEND COUNTY SHERIFF SALARY

Resolution No. 23-05-01

WHEREAS, the United States Department of Homeland Security has asked local law enforcement agencies along our Nation’s border to step up border monitoring, pursue joint objectives, and enhance their capabilities for providing border security; and,

WHEREAS, in an effort to assist local governments in fulfilling this request, the Department of Homeland Security through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division, offered “Operation Stonegarden 2021 grant; and,

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office is a successful recipient of an Operation Stonegarden 2021 grant; and,

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff has undertaken, as additional duties, the responsibility to avail himself and his officers for additional training, or to provide such training for his officers’ himself, for border protection and border security, and the additional duties of improving the distinct capability of the sheriffs’ office as a whole with regard to border security and border patrol as part of a joint mission; and in addition, as and for additional duties, the sheriff will necessarily devote more of his own time to border patrol and border enforcement; and,

WHEREAS, the Operation Stonegarden 2021 grant given to assist the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office in its efforts to secure the border includes the sum of $119,700 and $56,954 of this grant is for salaries.

WHEREAS, it is estimated that these additional border security duties will necessitate that the Sheriff expend on average another eight (8) hours per week; and,

WHEREAS, through the Operation Stonegarden 2021 grant, all of the additional overtime worked by officers devoted to border security issues is fully reimbursable under the grant, including the cost of officer overtime pay, PERA, Medicare and worker’s compensation, so that the net cost of the additional homeland security duties to Lake of the Woods County is fully reimbursed by the grant.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the resolution setting the sheriff’s salary, as originally set by this board on December 30, 2022 was $98,404.80 and fringe benefits were $19,828.57, be amended so that the sheriff’s salary is increased by the sum up to $18,815.68 and fringe benefits are increased up to $3,965.71 commencing January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2023, with the increase funding from the Operation Stonegarden 2021 grant contingent upon the following:

1.  That the Operation Stonegarden 2021 grant funding be available; and

2. That the Sheriff works, in addition to his regular duties, eight (8) hours per week of said Operation Stonegarden 2021 grant.

At such time that the Operation Stonegarden 2021 grant funding is no longer available and/or if the Sheriff is unable to complete the additional eight (8) hours per week of Operation Stonegarden 2021 grant work, the Sheriff’s salary shall return to the original balance set by the board on December 30, 2022 in addition to the accumulated Stonegarden wages earned based on Stonegarden funding available and actual hours worked.

Advertise for Bids- Oil Furnace

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise for bids for the used oil furnace in the storage building.

Declaration of Emergency

Emergency Management Director Jill Olson informed the board that the time to submit a declaration of emergency has expired.

Annual Boat & Water Grant

Resolution

The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and moved for adoption: 

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ANNUAL:

BOAT & WATER SAFETY GRANT

Resolution No. 2023-05-02

WHEREAS, under the provisions of M.S. 84.026, M.S.86B.101, the Sheriff of each county is required to carry out the provisions of Chapter 86B, and the boat and water safety rules promulgated by the Commissioner of Natural Resources; and,

WHEREAS, M.S. Section 86b.701 and the MN Rules provided for the allocation of funds by the Commissioner to assist in the funding of the Sheriff’s duties.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Chairman, Auditor and Sheriff are hereby authorized to execute the annual county boat and water safety agreement, for the period of January 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024, in the amount of $6,277, and authorize the County Board Chair Ed Arnesen, and County Sheriff Gary Fish to sign the same. 

The resolution was seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Land & Water

Land & Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund presented the follow CUP’s for consideration:

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #23-04CU by Jason and Christina Draper

A tract of land described as the West 330’ of the S2SE4SE4, Section Seven (7), Township One Hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West (McDougald), Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota – Parcel ID# 22.07.44.021. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401.C of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Rural Residential (R2) Zoning District.

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following Findings of Fact/Conditional Use Permit #23-04CU by Jason and Christina Draper to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Rural Residential (R2) Zoning District with the following conditions:

  1. No rental of property until a Certification of Compliance for the septic system is obtained.
  2. The septic system must be sized accordingly for the proposed maximum occupancy as per application.
  3. Conditional Use Permit terminates upon sale or transfer of property.
  4. All other requirements must be met as per application
  5. If applicable, meet Department of Health Requirements.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Jason and Christina Draper Date:  May 9, 2023

Location/Legal Description:  A tract of land described as the West 330’ of the S2SE4SE4, Section Seven (7), Township One Hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West – Parcel ID# 22.07.44.021.

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401.C of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Rural Residential (R2) Zoning District. 

  1. Is the project proposal consistent with the Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Land Use Plan? YES (X) NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? Rural Residential.

2.   Is the project proposal consistent with maintaining the public health, safety, and welfare?

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A ( )

Why or why not?  Application of permit process.

  1. Is the project proposal consistent with the goal of preventing and controlling water pollution, including sedimentation and nutrient loading?                        YES (  ) NO (  )  N/A (X )

Why or why not?  ___________________________________________________________________ 

  1. Will the project proposal not adversely affect the site’s existing topography, drainage features, and vegetative cover?                                            YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A ( X)

Why or why not?  ___________________________________________________________________ 

  1. Is the project proposal’s site location reasonable in relation to any floodplain and/or floodway of rivers or tributaries? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X )

Why or why not?  ___________________________________________________________________ 

  1. Has the erosion potential of the site based upon the degree and direction of slope, soil type and existing vegetative cover been adequately addressed for the project proposal? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A ( X)

Why or why not?  ___________________________________________________________________ 

  1. Is the site in harmony with existing and proposed access roads?     YES (X )  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  County Road.

  1. Is the project proposal compatible with adjacent land uses? YES (X )  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Rural Residential.

9.  Does the project proposal have a reasonable need to be in a shoreland location? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?  ___________________________________________________________________ 

  1. Is the amount of liquid waste to be generated reasonable and the proposed sewage disposal system adequate to accommodate the project proposal? YES (X )  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Based on inspection.

  1. Will the visibility of structures and other facilities as viewed from public waters comply with Section 901 of the Zoning Ordinance?         YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X )

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________

  1. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems? YES (X )  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Large enough area.

  1. Are the affected public waters suited to and able to safely accommodate the types, uses, and numbers of watercraft that the project proposal will generate? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X )

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________ 

  1. If the project proposal includes above ground or below ground storage tanks for petroleum or other hazardous material that is subject to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) requirements, has a permit been sought? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X )

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________ 

  1. Will there be fencing and/or other screening provided to buffer the project proposal from adjacent properties?

YES ( X )  NO (  )  N/A ( )

Why or why not? Existing.

  1. If signage is associated with the project proposal, has the applicant demonstrated the need for the number and size requested, and minimized the visual appearance as viewed from adjacent properties to the extent possible?  YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________ 

  1. If the project proposal will generate additional traffic to or from the site, has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the additional traffic and parking is to be addressed? YES (X )  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? On-site parking.

If all answers to the Findings of Fact-Criteria are either “Yes” or are “Not Applicable” to the request, the criteria for granting the conditional use permit have been met. The conditional use permit will maintain the goals of safety, health, and general welfare of the public.  

The specific conditions of approval are as follows:

  1. No rental of property until a Certificate of Compliance for the septic system is obtained.
  2. The septic system must be sized accordingly for the proposed maximum occupancy as per application.
  3. Conditional Use Permit terminates upon sale or transfer of property.
  4. All other requirements must be meet as per application.
  5. If applicable, meet Department of Health requirements.

 Approved  as Presented  (   ) Approved with Conditions  (X) Denied  (  )

      May 9, 2023 _____________________________________

Date Ed Arnesen

        Chair, County Board

This is in accordance with Section 1204 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance.

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit Application #23-05CU by Daniel Crompton

That part of the South 500’ of the SE¼SW¼ lying westerly of Bostic Creek except that part lying within Block 3, of Walleye Retreat Plat, in Section Twenty-one (21), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West (Wheeler), Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota – Parcel ID# 19.21.34.071. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance, to move more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of a rip rap project. This portion of Bostic Creek is considered part of Lake of the Woods which is a General Development Lake.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following Findings of Fact/Conditional Use Permit #23-05CU by Daniel Crompton to move more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of a rip rap project with the following conditions:

  1. Must follow DNR standards for rock rip rap.
  2. The Conditional Use Permit is only for that portion of the property experiencing active erosion.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Daniel Crompton Date:  May 9, 2023

Location/Legal Description:  The South 500’ of the SE¼SW¼ lying westerly of Bostic Creek except that part lying within Block 3, of Walleye Retreat Plat, in Section Twenty-one (21), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West (Wheeler), Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota – Parcel ID# 19.21.34.071.

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to move more than ten (10) yards of material within the shore impact zone Bostic Bay of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of a rock riprap project. Lake of the Woods is a General Development lake.  

1. Is the project proposal consistent with the Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Land Use Plan? YES (X) NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Shoreline Protection. 

2.  Is the project proposal consistent with maintaining the public health, safety, and welfare?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________ 

3. Is the project proposal consistent with the goal of preventing and controlling water pollution, including sedimentation and nutrient loading?                        YES (X) NO (  )  N/A ( )

Why or why not?  Shoreline protection.

4. Will the project proposal not adversely affect the site’s existing topography, drainage features, and vegetative cover?                                            YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A ( )

Why or why not?  Remain the same.

5. Is the project proposal’s site location reasonable in relation to any floodplain and/or floodway of rivers or tributaries? YES ( X )  NO (  )  N/A ( )

Why or why not?  Bostic Creek.

6. Has the erosion potential of the site based upon the degree and direction of slope, soil type and existing vegetative cover been adequately addressed for the project proposal? YES ( X )  NO (  )  N/A ( )

Why or why not?  Based on DNR requirements.

7. Is the site in harmony with existing and proposed access roads?     YES ( )  NO (  )  N/A ( X )

Why or why not?  ___________________________________________________________________ 

8. Is the project proposal compatible with adjacent land uses? YES ( )  NO (  )  N/A ( X )

Why or why not?  ___________________________________________________________________ 

9.  Does the project proposal have a reasonable need to be in a shoreland location? YES ( X )  NO (  )  N/A ( )

Why or why not?  Bostic Creek.

10. Is the amount of liquid waste to be generated reasonable and the proposed sewage disposal system adequate to accommodate the project proposal? YES ( )  NO (  )  N/A ( X )

Why or why not?  ___________________________________________________________________ 

12. Will the visibility of structures and other facilities as viewed from public waters comply with Section 901 of the Zoning Ordinance?         YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X )

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________

13. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems? YES ( )  NO (  )  N/A (X  )

Why or why not?  ___________________________________________________________________ 

14. Are the affected public waters suited to and able to safely accommodate the types, uses, and numbers of watercraft that the project proposal will generate? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X )

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________ 

15. If the project proposal includes above ground or below ground storage tanks for petroleum or other hazardous material that is subject to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) requirements, has a permit been sought? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X )

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________ 

16. Will there be fencing and/or other screening provided to buffer the project proposal from adjacent properties?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X )

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________ 

17. If signage is associated with the project proposal, has the applicant demonstrated the need for the number and size requested, and minimized the visual appearance as viewed from adjacent properties to the extent possible?  YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X )

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________ 

18. If the project proposal will generate additional traffic to or from the site, has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the additional traffic and parking is to be addressed? YES ( )  NO (  )  N/A (X  )

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________ 

If all answers to the Findings of Fact-Criteria are either “Yes” or are “Not Applicable” to the request, the criteria for granting the conditional use permit have been met. The conditional use permit will maintain the goals of safety, health, and general welfare of the public.  

The specific conditions of approval are as follows:

  1. Must follow DNR standards for rock rip rap.
  2. The Conditional Use Permit is only for that portion of the property experiencing active erosion.

Approved  as Presented  (   ) Approved with Conditions  (X) Denied  (  )

          May 9, 2023 _____________________________________

Date Ed Arnesen

        Chair, County Board

This is in accordance with Section 1204 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance.

Consideration of Preliminary Plat of Hooper Creek West by Hooper Creek Investments, LLC

 A parcel of land located in Government Lot (One) 1 and (Five) 5, and that portion of the SE¼NW¼ lying north of Highway 172, all within Section Eighteen (18), Township One Hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-one (31) West (Baudette) Parcel ID# 24.18.12.010. Applicant is requesting to create eight (8) tracts for a residential development. The Rainy River is an Agricultural River Segment.

Planning Commission recommends approval of the submitted Preliminary Plat of Hooper Creek West with the following conditions:

Combine Lots 1 and 2.

Address comments submitted by the County Recorder and Public Works Director.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously with Commissioner Jon Waibel abstaining to approve the request by Hooper Creek Investments, LLC to create eight (8) tracts for a residential development with the following conditions:

  1. Combine Lots 1 and 2
  2. Address comments submitted by the County Recorder and Public Works Director.

Public Health Nurse

Public Health Nurse Kay Schell gave an update to the board about potential uses for Opioid Funds and how other Counties have been using the funds.

Coalition

Doris Knutson and Sandy Peterson spoke with the board on various uses for Opioid Funds, how they can help our community and the need for an Opioid committee.

Set Opioid Committee

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to create the Opioid Committee with the following members: Kay Schell, Doris Knutson, Sandy Peterson, Craig Severs, Jodi Ferrier, James Austad, and Joe Grund.

Recess

With no further business before the Board, Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 11:20 a.m.

Attest: May 23, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chairman Ed Arnesen

April 25, 2023

April 25, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, April 25, 2023 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

Vice-Chair Cody Hasbargen called the meeting to order at 9:00a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Buck Nordlof, Cody Hasbargen, Jon Waibel, and Joe Grund. Also present was Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. Absent was: Commissioner Ed Arnesen

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: ARP Funding for Fire Department, Appointment of Extension Committee Member, Data Practices, Set Date to Create a Review of Department Heads. 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of April 11, 2023.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $4,719.65; Commissioners Warrants $8,067.18; Commissioners Warrants $4,251.65.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $66,965.77; Road & Bridge $22,879.41; County Development $4,200.00; Solid Waste $13,105.72; EDA $1,142.80.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 4/25/2023 For Payment 4/28/2023

Vendor Name Amount

Counties Providing Technology 4,204.00

KRIS Engineering Inc 2,134.02

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 25,472.50

Liberty Tire Recycling, LLC 4,935.75

M-R Sign Co, Inc 10,899.71

Minnesota Ui 4,411.84

Mn Counties Computer Co-Op 17,323.34

Northern Light Region 6,048.78

Sandpieper Design Inc. 2,294.62

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

Voyageurs Comtronics, Inc 2,669.68

WIDSETH 5,250.00

41 Payments less than 2000 16,380.96

Final Total: 108,293.70

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: April 12, 2023 for $80,946.33; April 19, 2023 for $11,738.08.

Affidavit of Lost Warrant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Affidavit of Lost Warrant numbered 94853 in the amount of $218.12.

Letter of Support

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the letter of support for local lodging tax in Lake of the Woods County.

Correspondence

The board reviewed correspondence from Lessard-Sams.

Snowmobile Trails NWA Edgeriders

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and moved for adoption: 

Sponsorship of Snowmobile Trails Assistance Program

Resolution No. 23-04-03

BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County will act as the legal sponsor for an application for funding to the State of Minnesota Department of Natural Resource for NW Angle Islands maintenance of snowmobile trails managed by Northwest Angle Edge Riders Club. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that upon approval of its application by the state, the Lake of the Woods County may enter into an agreement with the State of Minnesota for the above referenced project and that it will comply with all applicable laws and regulations as stated in the agreement. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that County Auditor-Treasurer, Lorene G Hanson is hereby authorized to serve as the fiscal agent for the above referenced project. 

Snowmobile Trails LOW Drifters

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Joe Grund, seconded by Jon Waibel and moved for adoption: 

Sponsorship of Snowmobile Trails Assistance Program

Resolution No. 23-04-04

BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County will act as the legal sponsor for an application for funding to the State of Minnesota Department of Natural Resource for Lake of the Woods Drifters Land and Big Traverse Trails managed by Lake of the Woods Drifters. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that upon approval of its application by the state, the Lake of the Woods County may enter into an agreement with the State of Minnesota for the above referenced project and that it will comply with all applicable laws and regulations as stated in the agreement. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that County Auditor-Treasurer, Lorene G Hanson is hereby authorized to serve as the fiscal agent for the above referenced project. 

Appointment of Extension Committee Member

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to appoint Jean Schotl to the Extension Committee. 

Human Services

Accept Resignation

Human Resources Director Savanna Slick informed the board that Jennifer Hovde has put in a formal resignation effective May 19,2023.

Permission to Advertise, Interview, & Hire- Approve Job description

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the job description for a Family Based Services Provider and to advertise, interview, & hire for this position at Grade 10, Step 1, 241 Points at $21.16 per hour.

Land & Water Planning Wages

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the job description for Environmental Specialist II and a career ladder for the Land & Water Planning Department. Addition of ladder grade means Environmental Specialist will increase from Grade 9, Points 232 to Grade 10, Points 245. The Assistant Zoning Inspector position will increase from Grade 11, Points 253 to Grade 12, Points 278. Increases will take place after certifications have been completed. A request was made for Megan Thompson to receive a grade increase based on the ladder system due to her completion of certifications. Scott Head will remain at Grade 9 until he completes the certification courses. 

Approval of Grade Increase

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve a grade increase for Megan Thompson Environmental Specialist II to Grade 11, Step 11, at $26.98 per hour, at 253 points effective next full pay period. 

Set Date for Department Head Review

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to set a work session to review department head reviews May 9, 2023 following the regular board meeting.

Data Practices Act 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to classify Public Officials as County Employees for the purposes of the Data Practices Act. 

Sheriff

FY21 Operation Stonegarden Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the FY21 OPSG Grant and for Vice-Chair Cody Hasbargen and Sheriff Gary Fish to the sign the same.

Declaration of Emergency

Assistant Engineer Boyd Johnson and County Sheriff Gary Fish discussed the need for the Declaration of Emergency Resolution. Mr. Johnson gave an update on flooding conditions and the potential for flooding and did not see a need for the declaration at this time.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to table the declaration of emergency resolution to the next board meeting.

Chief Deputy Sheriff Wage

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve an increase from Grade 18, Step 12 at $40.09 per hour, to Grade 19, Step 12 at $42.38 per hour for Chief Deputy Sheriff Daryl Fish effective next full pay period. 

American Rescue Plan Funding for Fire Department

Discussion was had regarded the use of the ARPA funds for the Fire Department. It was the consensus of the board to ask Brad Levasseur to the next board meeting to update the board on this request. 

Recess

With no further business before the Board, Vice-Chair Cody Hasbargen called the meeting to recess at 9:40 a.m.

Attest: May 9, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Vice-Chair Cody Hasbargen

April 11, 2023

April 11, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:00a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Buck Nordlof, Ed Arnesen and Joe Grund. Also present was Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. Absent was: Commissioners: Cody Hasbargen, and Jon Waibel.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Legislative update, Extension, and Highway Correspondence. 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of March 28, 2023.

Bid Opening-Land Lease

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to reject the bid from Dan Crompton in the amount of $100.00 for total acreage as it did not meet the minimum bid required of $30.00 per acre.

Dan Crompton

Dan Crompton spoke with the board about his use of the land in regards to his bid and suggested that the board reconsider their options.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to add Rebidding of Acres to the agenda.

Rebidding of Acres

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to advertise for bids for parcel #18.2342.000, approximately 13 acres of tillable land, at $30.00 per acre or best offer.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $13,071.45; Commissioners Warrants $3,476.85; Commissioners Warrants $9,804.29.

CSP Contract- Adult Mental Health 2023-24

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof to approve the CSP Contract between the State of Minnesota Department of Human Services, Behavioral Health Division and Lake of the Woods County for Adult Mental Health 2023-24. 

Northerly Park Bid Request

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the request to prepare bid RFP for the Northwest Angle Northerly Park project.

New Signage for Jim’s Corner

Joe Laurin discussed the need for new signage at Jim’s Corner. It was the consensus of the board to add this to the American Rescue Plan funds work session discussion.

Snowmobile Trail Grant

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and moved for adoption: 

MN Snowmobile Trail Assistance Program

Trail Improvement Grant

NWA Edgeriders

Resolution – 23-04-01

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County supports the grant application made to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for a Trail Improvement Project on behalf of the Northwest Angle Edgeriders Snowmobile Club.  The trail system is located within Lake of the Woods County 

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County recognizes that the Northwest Angle Edgeriders Snowmobile Club will be contributing a twenty-five percent (25%) cash match to the project. 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, if Lake of the Woods County is awarded a grant by the Minnesota Department of Natural resources, the County agrees to accept the grant award, and may enter into an agreement with the State of Minnesota for the above referenced project.  The County will comply with all applicable laws, environmental requirements and regulations as stated in the grant agreement, and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution be in effect for a five-year period, good through April 2028, and;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the applicant has read the Conflict of Interest Policy contained in the Trail Program Grant Manual and certifies it will report any actual, potential, perceived, or organizational conflicts of interest upon discovery to the state related to the application or grant award, and;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the County Board names the fiscal agent for Lake of the Woods County as: 

Lorene Hanson 

County Auditor-Treasurer

206 8th Ave SE, Suite 260, 

Baudette, MN 56623

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the County hereby assures the trail improvements will be maintained for a period of no less than twenty (20) years as required by the Recreational Trail Grant Programs.

Miles Hogenson

Snowmobile Trails

Miles Hogenson gave a presentation on the current snowmobile trails maintenance and presented a map to display new potential ATV trails.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to support the possible new trail route from Baudette and Williams to the west to Beltrami and the new 62 mile proposal extending to the Pine Island State Forest. 

Public Hearing

Rainy Rapid River Watershed Plan

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the Rainy Rapid River Watershed Plan Public Hearing with the following members present: Commissioners: Ed Arnesen, Buck Nordlof, and Joe Grund. Also present were: Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund, John Sonstegard, Monica Dohlmen, with  Mariya Rufer and Chad Severts by Zoom.

Rainy Rapid Watershed Committee

Rainy Rapid Watershed Committee meeting Chair John Sonstegard opened the public hearing.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Committee Member Monica Dohlmen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda without changes.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Mariya Rufer, seconded by Chad Severts and carried unanimously to approve the minutes from February 23, 2023.

Rainy Rapid Watershed Plan Presentation

 Mike Hirst reviewed a power point presentation to discuss the Rainy Rapid Watershed Plan. 

Motion 

Motion was made by committee member Monica Dohlmen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to recommend approval of the watershed plan and submit to the BWSR.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Committee Member Monica Dohlmen and carried unanimously to close the Public Hearing.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to open the regular meeting.

Rainy Rapid River Watershed Plan 

Resolution

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPROVAL TO SUBMIT, ADOPT AND IMPLEMENT THE RAINY-RAPID COMPREHENSIVE WATERSHED MANAGEMENT PLAN

Resolution 23-04-02

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County is a member of the Rainy-Rapid One Watershed One Plan Policy Committee; and

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has been an active participant in the development of the Rainy-Rapid Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan (Plan); and

WHEREAS, the Rainy-Rapid One Watershed One Plan Policy Committee submitted the Plan on January 23, 2023 for a 60-day comment period; and 

WHEREAS, no major changes were requested by state agencies in the 60-day comment period; and

WHEREAS, the Plan will serve as a substitute for either the SWCD comprehensive plan or county local water management plan as per 103C or 103B respectively for the duration of the state approved Plan.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, Lake of the Woods County will approve submission of the plan to the Board of Water and Soil Resources Board (BWSR). Contingent on recommendation of plan approval by the BWSR Northern Committee and subsequent BWSR approval, Lake of the Woods County hereby adopts and will begin implementation of the Plan for the area of the County identified within the Plan.

Memorandum of Agreement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the MOA with SWCD to work together on the Rainy Rapid River Watershed Plan and for Chairman Ed Arnesen to sign the same.

Feedlot Presentation-Mike Hirst

Mike Hirst gave an update on the feedlots in Lake of the Woods County.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the feedlot annual report and for Chairman Ed Arnesen to sign the same.

Historical Society

Request for Funding for New Roof

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve $6,000.00 from the American Rescue Plan funds for roof repairs and to add the Historical Society to the American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds list. 

Recess

A brief recess took place at 11:22 a.m. and reconvened at 11:25 a.m.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $39,257.04; Road & Bridge $126,302.64; County Development $515.00; Solid Waste $54,908.90.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 4/11/2023 For Payment 4/14/2023

Vendor Name Amount

American Solutions For Business 4,483.46

CARRIFF Engineered Fabrics Corporation 2,695.82

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 21,456.34

Farmers Union Oil company 2,026.72

Guardian Fleet Safety 5,283.67

Howard’s Oil Company 8,295.41

LOW Highway Dept 5,831.25

Mar-Kit Landfill 12,420.25

Midsota Trailer Sales & Service 27,350.00

Performance Health Supply LLC 3,908.64

Plutko Plumbing & Heating 19,641.99

R & Q Trucking, Inc 6,110.00

Team Lab 70,812.50

University Of Mn 11,474.32

32 Payments less than 2000 19,193.21

Final Total: 220,983.58

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: April 5, 2023 for $67,829.28; April 7, 2023 for $451,366.00; April 7, 2023 for ($1,250.00).

Abatement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to request an abatement from the Commissioner of Revenue for parcel #15.31.33.040 due to a clerical error.

Extension 

The board reviewed correspondence from Lisa Loegering requesting funding for a 4-H Summer assistant.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve up to $2000.00 for a 4-H Summer assistant.

Correspondence

The board reviewed correspondence from County Engineer Anthony Pirkl regarding FEMA progress.

Legislative Update

Commissioner Ed Arnesen gave a legislative update that included Tourism, Williams School, Lodging Tax, and the Northwest Angle. Commissioner Arnesen will be traveling to Washington, D.C. to meet with lobbyist and requested a letter on behalf of the County regarding lobbying for a safe boat for public safety and to speak about tourism.

Recess

With no further business before the Board, Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 12:00 p.m.

Attest: April 25, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chairman Ed Arnesen

March 28, 2023

March 28, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 28, 2023 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:00a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Cody Hasbargen, Buck Nordlof, Jon Waibel, Ed Arnesen and Joe Grund. Also present was Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Legislative update

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of March 14, 2023.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $18,195.00; Commissioners Warrants $3,091.09; Commissioners Warrants $6,117.19.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $33,119.19; Road & Bridge $16,893.51; Solid Waste $9,020.83.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 3/28/2023 For Payment 3/31/2023

Vendor Name Amount

CentralSquare Technologies, LLC 2,340.00

Compass Minerals America 3,021.63

Lake of the Woods Electric LLC 2,703.76

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 15,798.75

Northwest Community Action, Inc 5,000.00

Pemberton Law, P.L.L.P. 2,174.34

Stratton Equipment Sales & Service Ltd 9,078.83

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

23 Payments less than 2000 12,647.72

Final Total: 59,033.53

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: March 14, 2023 for $16,474.14, March 22, 2023 $22,247.55.

Juneteenth

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve Juneteenth as a county holiday effective June 19, 2024. 

Post Prom Donation

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve a donation of $200.00 to the Post Prom Party. 

Law Enforcement Labor Services Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the LELS Contract with the salary change effective the next full pay period. 

DNR

Scott Laudenslager gave an update on deer and bear habitats, habitat work, brush work, and controlled burns. 

Mr. Laudenslager also answered questions about grouse season.

Maintenance

Bloodborne Policy & Exposure Control Plan

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the updated Bloodborne Policy & Exposure Control Plan.

Public Works

Heavy Equipment Operator Grade Increase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve an increase from Grade 11 to Grade 12 with the most equivalent step for Heavy Equipment Operator and Solid Waste Operators effective next full pay period. 

Deputy Accountant Grade Increase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve an increase from Grade 10 to Grade 11 with the most equivalent step for Deputy Accountant Christi Pierce effective next full pay period. 

Federal Funding SP 039-598-071

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously:

RESOLUTION

For Agreement to State Transportation Fund 

Local Bridge Replacement Program

Grant Terms and Conditions

SP 039-598-071

Resolution No – 23-03-02

March 28, 2023

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has applied to the Commissioner of Transportation for a grant from the Minnesota State Transportation Fund for construction of Bridge No. 92633; and

WHEREAS, the Commissioner of Transportation has given notice that funding for this project is available; and

WHEREAS, the amount of the grant has been determined to be $_116,288.68_ by reason of the lowest responsible bid;

WHEREAS, NOW THEREFORE, be it resolved that Lake of the Woods County does hereby agree to the terms and conditions of the grant consistent with Minnesota Statutes, section 174.50, and will pay any additional amount by which the cost exceeds the estimate, and will return to the Minnesota State Transportation Fund any amount appropriated for the project but not required.  The proper county officers are authorized to execute a grant agreement and any amendments thereto with the Commissioner of Transportation concerning the above-referenced grant.

NWA Road ROW Brushing

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update regarding the Northwest Angle road right-of-way brushing that will begin on April 10, 2023. Letters will be sent to adjacent property owners. 

PFAAS 3rd Party Study Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the use of a 3rd party for PFAAS testing at the landfill with Bar Engineering in the amount of $4,000.

Land & Water

Purchase Approval-File Folders

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of 1,000 file folders in the amount of $956.82 from the Land & Water Budget.

Indus School 

Resolution

The following Resolution was offered by Commission Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following:

A RESOLUTION OF THE LAKE OF THE WOODS BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AFFIRMATION, COMMITMENT AND SUPPORT OF THE INDUS SCHOOL

Resolution No.  23-03-03

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods Board of County Commissioners is committed to making decisions that promote quality educational programs and services to school-age children of our community and surrounding communities; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of County Commissioners believes that a quality public education serves as an essential foundation to and has an integral impact on school-age children’s future and the counties economic well-being; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods Board of County Commissioners believes that education is an important asset in maximizing the opportunities of an individual and a community; and

WHEREAS, rural public schools have a positive impact on the lives of countless students and enhance county initiatives by providing employment opportunities for residents, retaining families within a community, and providing alternative educational opportunities for students that meet the need of the whole student; and

WHEREAS, school closures affect all aspects of our students’ lives, such as food and housing security, healthcare, safety, and educational technology; and

WHEREAS, school closures negatively impact a community and surrounding counties from a social, economic, and population standpoint; and

WHEREAS, our nation’s future well-being relies on providing our most vulnerable students access to high quality education and programs that meet their needs;

WHEREAS, quality public education for every child is integral to the viability and economic future of developing communities, by directly and indirectly contributing to the intellectual and physical development of all individuals regardless of circumstances; and

WHEREAS, the potential closure of a public schoolhouse serves to deepen the inequalities and diminish the opportunities for every child and diminishes our economic stability; and

 WHEREAS, the Indus school provides quality education that meets the needs for students that reside in both  Koochiching County and Lake of the Woods County.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the commitment to promote access to quality public education for students of all types is a cornerstone to Lake of the Woods Board of County Commissioners. As a County and neighboring school partnership, Lake of the Woods is committed to ensuring its residents have access to public education that meets their needs.

THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Commissioners does hereby affirm its support for the public education offered at Indus school and supports efforts to reconsider closure to allow for further discussion.

ADOPTED by the Lake of the Woods Board of County Commissioners (Ed Arnesen, Joe Grund, Cody Hasbargen, Buck Nordlof and Jon Waibel), State of Minnesota, at the regular open public meeting thereof, held this 28th day of March, 2023.

Sheriff

BCA Joint Powers Agreement

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously: 

RESOLUTION NO. 23-03-04

RESOLUTION APPROVING STATE OF MINNESOTA JOINT POWERS AGREEMENTS WITH COUNTY OF LAKE OF THE WOODS ON BEHALF OF ITS COUNTY ATTORNEY AND SHERIFF

WHEREAS, The County of Lake of the Woods on behalf of its County Attorney and Sheriff desires to enter into Joint Powers Agreements with the State of Minnesota, Department of Public Safety, Bureau of Criminal Apprehension to use systems and tools available over the State’s criminal justice data communications network for which the County is eligible. The Joint Powers Agreements further provide the county with the ability to add, modify and delete connectivity, systems and tools over the five year life of the agreement and obligates the County to pay the costs for the network connection.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Lake of the Woods County Board, Minnesota s follows: 

  1. That the State of Minnesota Joint Powers Agreements by and between the State of Minnesota acting through its Department of Public Safety, Bureau of criminal Apprehension and the County of Lake of the Woods County on behalf of its County Attorney and Sheriff are herby approved.
  1. That the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff, Gary Fish, or his successor, is designated the Authorized Representative for the Sheriff. The Authorized Representative is also authorized to sign any subsequent amendment or agreement that may be required by the State of Minnesota to maintain the County’s connection to the systems and tools offered by the State.
  1. That the Lake of the Woods County Attorney, James Austad, or his successor, is designated the Authorized Representative for the County Attorney. The Authorized Representative is also authorized to sign any subsequent amendment or agreement that may be required by the State of Minnesota to maintain the County’s connection to the systems and tools offered by the State.
  1. That Ed Arnesen, the Chair of Lake of the Woods County Board and Gary Fish, the County Sheriff, are authorized to sign the State of Minnesota Joint Powers Agreements.

Recess

With no further business before the Board, Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 10:56 a.m.

Attest: April 11, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chairman Ed Arnesen

March 14, 2023

March 14, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 14, 2023 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:00a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Cody Hasbargen, Buck Nordlof, Jon Waibel, Ed Arnesen and Joe Grund. Also present was Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Credit Card Increase, and Indus School Support. 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of February 28, 2023.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Social Services Director Amy Ballard gave a summary of the claims and informed the board that the social worker they intended to hire did not accept the position and this position will be advertised again.

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $15,494.11; Commissioners Warrants $4,926.68; Commissioners Warrants $15,984.26.

Northwest Community Action-Vehicle Repair Program

NWCA Family Services Director Sharon Millner discussed the vehicle repair program and how it benefits families in our area by assisting with payments for vehicle repair services. They are requesting the board to contribute up to $15,000 to the program that would be used for families in Lake of the Woods County. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the request for funding with $10,000 paid for by Social Services and $5,000 from the American Rescue Plan funds for a total of $15,000 to support the vehicle repair program in Lake of the Woods County. 

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $63,534.10; Road & Bridge $58,087.07; County Development $200.00; Solid Waste $40,108.90; EDA $1,120.01.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 3/14/2023 For Payment 3/17/2023

Vendor Name Amount

Auto Value Baudette 6,584.88

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 11,391.28

Counties Providing Technology 4,204.00

Deputy Registrar No.75 2,147.02

Esri 28,400.00

Ferrellgas 4,504.76

Howard’s Oil Company 3,842.07

Integris LLC 2,560.31

Interstate Billing Service Inc 3,623.29

Lake of the Woods Electric LLC 3,784.08

LOW Highway Dept 5,917.50

Mar-Kit Landfill 12,549.50

Midway Ford Company 32,261.88

Pennington County Sheriff Office 5,155.11

Quadient Finance USA Inc. 4,000.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc 4,277.00

53 Payments less than 2000 27,847.40

Final Total: 163,050.08

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: March 1, 2023 for $53,724.73; March 6, 2023 for $643,650.77; March 7, 2023 for $437,709.54; March 8, 2023 for $184,112.57.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to set a work session for April 25, 2023 following the regular board meeting to discuss ARPA funds. 

Advertise Bid Reminder

County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson informed the board that the advertisement to bid for parcel #18.2342.000, approximately 13 acres of tillable land, is ready for publication. 

Opioid Resolution 

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and moved for adoption:

Resolution Authorizing Lake of the Woods County Staff to Execute All Necessary Documents to Ensure Lake of the Woods County’s Participation in the Multistate Settlements Relating to Opioid Supply Chain Participants, and in the Minnesota Opioids State-Subdivision Memorandum of Agreement.

Resolution 23-03-01

WHEREAS, the State of Minnesota and numerous Minnesota cities and counties are engaged in nationwide civil litigation against opioid supply chain participants related to the opioid crisis; and

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Attorney General has signed on to multistate settlement agreements with several opioid supply chain participants, but those settlement agreements are still subject to sign-on by local governments and final agreement by the companies and approval by the courts; and 

WHEREAS, there is a deadline of April, 18 2023, for a sufficient threshold of Minnesota cities and counties to sign on to the above-referenced multistate settlement agreements, and failure to timely sign on may diminish the amount of funds received by not only that city or county but by all Minnesota cities and counties from the settlement funds; and

WHEREAS, representatives of Minnesota’s local governments, the Office of the Attorney General, and the State of Minnesota have reached agreement on the intrastate allocation of these settlement funds between the State, and the counties and cities, as well as the permissible uses of these funds, which will be memorialized in the Minnesota Opioids State-Subdivision Memorandum of Agreement, as amended (the “State-Subdivision Agreement”); and 

WHEREAS, the State-Subdivision Agreement creates an opportunity for local governments and the State to work collaboratively on a unified vision to deliver a robust abatement and remediation plan to address the opioid crisis in Minnesota; 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, Lake of the Woods County supports and agrees to the State-Subdivision Agreement; and 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, Lake of the Woods County supports and opts in to all future multistate settlement agreements with opioid supply chain participants; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, Lake of the Woods County authorizes County staff to execute all necessary documents to ensure Lake of the Woods County participation in the multistate settlement agreements, including the Participation Agreement and accompanying Release, and in the State-Subdivision Agreement.

The resolution was seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to set a work session for April 25, 2023 following the regular board meeting to discuss the Opioid funding. 

Indus School Support

Amy Hasbargen-Hanson and Christine Hultman came to the board seeking a resolution of support to appeal the closure of Indus School. Amy Hasbargen-Hanson informed the board of the issues surrounding the decision to close the school and the impact it will have on our communities. The board took no action at this time and will revisit the issue at a later date. 

Land & Water

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #23-02CU by GWE, LLC, on behalf of Thomas Finders

The East ½ East ½ NW ¼ NE ¼ , Section Twenty-Seven (27), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West- Parcel ID# 19.27.12.010. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401.C of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to allow commercial activity consisting of up to six (6) multi-unit storage buildings in a non-shoreland Rural Residential Zoning District (R2).

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following Conditional Use Permit/Findings of Fact by GWE, LLC, on behalf of Thomas Finders as required by Section 401. C of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to allow commercial activity consisting of up to six (6) multi-unit storage buildings in a non-shoreland Rural Residential Zoning District (R2) with the following conditions:

  1. A wetland delineation is required.
  2. Driveway and roads to be approved by the Lake of the Woods County Public Works Department for safety vehicle access.
  3. The Conditional Use Permit is for applicant’s project only, as applied for and terminates in five (5) years if applicant has not constructed at least one (1) unit from date of approval.
  4. No habitation is allowed.
  5. If applicable, a stormwater permit will be required.
  6. No overnight parking or use of the units is allowed.
  7. No outside storage is allowed.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  GWE, LLC Date:  March 14, 2023

Location/Legal Description:  The East½East½NW¼NE¼, Section Twenty-seven (27), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West – Parcel ID# 19.27.12.010

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401.C of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to allow commercial activity consisting of up to six (6) multi-unit storage buildings in a non-shoreland Rural Residential Zoning District (R2).

1)  Is the project proposal consistent with the Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Land Use Plan? YES (X) NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Commercial development.

2)  Is the project proposal consistent with maintaining the public health, safety, and welfare?

YES (  ) NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?____________________________________________________________________

  1. Is the project proposal consistent with the goal of preventing and controlling water pollution, including sedimentation and nutrient loading?                        YES (X) NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  See application.

  1. Will the project proposal not adversely affect the site’s existing topography, drainage features, and vegetative cover?                                            YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Topography and drainage won’t be affected.

  1. Is the project proposal’s site location reasonable in relation to any floodplain and/or floodway of rivers or tributaries? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?____________________________________________________________________

  1. Has the erosion potential of the site based upon the degree and direction of slope, soil type and existing vegetative cover been adequately addressed for the project proposal? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?____________________________________________________________________

  1. Is the site in harmony with existing and proposed access roads?     YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  County Road 8. 

  1. Is the project proposal compatible with adjacent land uses? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Other commercial facilities. 

9)  Does the project proposal have a reasonable need to be in a shoreland location?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?____________________________________________________________________

  1. Is the amount of liquid waste to be generated reasonable and the proposed sewage disposal system adequate to accommodate the project proposal? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  See as planned in application.

  1. Will the visibility of structures and other facilities as viewed from public waters comply with Section 901 of the Zoning Ordinance?         YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?____________________________________________________________________

  1. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Existing well and sewage system in application.

  1. Are the affected public waters suited to and able to safely accommodate the types, uses, and numbers of watercraft that the project proposal will generate? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?____________________________________________________________________

  1. If the project proposal includes above ground or below ground storage tanks for petroleum or other hazardous material that is subject to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) requirements, has a permit been sought?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?____________________________________________________________________

  1. Will there be fencing and/or other screening provided to buffer the project proposal from adjacent properties?

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Existing vegetation.

  1. If signage is associated with the project proposal, has the applicant demonstrated the need for the number and size requested, and minimized the visual appearance as viewed from adjacent properties to the extent possible? 

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  See application.

  1. If the project proposal will generate additional traffic to or from the site, has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the additional traffic and parking is to be addressed? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  No overnight parking allowed.

If all answers to the Findings of Fact-Criteria are either “Yes” or are “Not Applicable” to the request, the criteria for granting the conditional use permit have been met. The conditional use permit will maintain the goals of safety, health, and general welfare of the public.  

The specific conditions of approval are as follows: 

  1. A wetland delineation is required.
  2. Driveway and roads to be approved by the Lake of the Woods County Public Works Department for safety vehicle access.
  3. The Conditional Use Permit is for applicant’s project only, as applied for and terminates in five (5) years if applicant has not constructed at least one (1) unit from date of approval.
  4. No habitation is allowed.
  5. If applicable, a stormwater permit will be required.
  6. No overnight parking or use of the units is allowed.
  7. No outside storage is allowed.

Approved  as Presented  (   ) Approved with Conditions  (X) Denied  (  )

March 14, 2023 _____________________________________

Date Ed Arnesen Chair, County Board

This is in accordance with Section 1204 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance.

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #23-03CU by Grant and Savanna Slick

A tract of land located in Government Lot Two (2), Section Twenty-eight (28), Township One Hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-one (31) West- Parcel ID# 24.28.22.020. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401.B of the Lake of the Woods Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term transient rental in a Residential Development (R1) Zoning District. Rainy River is an agricultural river segment. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following Conditional Use Permit/Findings of Fact by Grant and Savanna Slick as required by Section 401.B of the Lake of the Woods Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term transient rental in a Residential Development (R1) Zoning District with the following conditions:

  1. The Conditional Use Permit terminates upon sale or transfer of property.
  2. The existing sewer system must be upgraded by July 8, 2024.
  3. The conditional approval is contingent upon applicant meeting all other requirements as outlined in the submitted application, such as quiet hours, maximum occupancy, etc. 
  4. Must meet Minnesota Department of Health requirements.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Grant and Savanna Slick Date:  March 14, 2023

Location/Legal Description:  A tract of land located in Government Lot Two (2), Section Twenty-eight 28), Township One Hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-one (31) West – Parcel ID# 24.28.22.020.

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401.B of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term transient rental in a Residential Development (R1) Zoning District. Rainy River is an agricultural river segment.

1) Is the project proposal consistent with the Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Land Use Plan? YES (X) NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Commercial development corridor.

2)  Is the project proposal consistent with maintaining the public health, safety, and welfare?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

3. Is the project proposal consistent with the goal of preventing and controlling water pollution, including sedimentation and nutrient loading?                        YES (  ) NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________ 

4. Will the project proposal not adversely affect the site’s existing topography, drainage features, and vegetative cover?                                            YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

5. Is the project proposal’s site location reasonable in relation to any floodplain and/or floodway of rivers or tributaries? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

6. Has the erosion potential of the site based upon the degree and direction of slope, soil type and existing vegetative cover been adequately addressed for the project proposal? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

7. Is the site in harmony with existing and proposed access roads?     YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  State highway 172 NW and shared driveway.

8. Is the project proposal compatible with adjacent land uses? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Residential neighborhood.

9)  Does the project proposal have a reasonable need to be in a shoreland location? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ________________________________________________________________________

10. Is the amount of liquid waste to be generated reasonable and the proposed sewage disposal system adequate to accommodate the project proposal? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Design plan applied for.

11. Will the visibility of structures and other facilities as viewed from public waters comply with Section 901 of the Zoning Ordinance?         YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

12. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  On site well and sewage system to be upgraded.

13. Are the affected public waters suited to and able to safely accommodate the types, uses, and numbers of watercraft that the project proposal will generate? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

14. If the project proposal includes above ground or below ground storage tanks for petroleum or other hazardous material that is subject to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) requirements, has a permit been sought?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

15. Will there be fencing and/or other screening provided to buffer the project proposal from adjacent properties?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

16. If signage is associated with the project proposal, has the applicant demonstrated the need for the number and size requested, and minimized the visual appearance as viewed from adjacent properties to the extent possible? 

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

17. If the project proposal will generate additional traffic to or from the site, has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the additional traffic and parking is to be addressed? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? Adequate on-site parking.

If all answers to the Findings of Fact-Criteria are either “Yes” or are “Not Applicable” to the request, the criteria for granting the conditional use permit have been met. The conditional use permit will maintain the goals of safety, health, and general welfare of the public.  

The specific conditions of approval are as follows:

  1. The Conditional Use Permit terminates upon sale or transfer of property.
  2. The existing sewer system must be upgraded by July 8, 2024.
  3. The conditional approval is contingent upon applicant meeting all other requirements as outlined in the submitted application, such as quiet hours, maximum occupancy, etc.
  4. Must meet Minnesota Department of Health requirements.

Approved  as Presented  (   ) Approved with Conditions  (X) Denied  (  )

March 14, 2023 _____________________________________

Date Ed Arnesen

Chair, County Board

This is in accordance with Section 1204 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance.

Recognition of Mike Hirst

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund informed the board that Resource Conservationist and SWCD member Mike Hirst was the 2023 Larry Kallemeyn Award recipient. This award is voted on by peers and given to an individual that shows significant contributions to research or resource management and outstanding professional achievement in scientific research or resource management.

Rainy River 1W1P MOA & Bylaws

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund gave the board information on the Rainy River Watershed Plan, Memorandum of Agreement and bylaws for their review. This information will be discussed in the upcoming public hearing on April 11, 2023.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to add the Keep it Clean Campaign to the agenda.

Keep It Clean Campaign

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund discussed the Keep it Clean Campaign to keep trash and waste off of the lake and shoreline. Mr. Stromlund informed the board that the SWCD will be writing a letter of support for the campaign and asked the board if they would like to do the same.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to write a letter of support for the Keep it Clean Campaign. 

MIS

Approval to move to Microsoft 365

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of Microsoft 365 using American Rescue Plan funds up to $29,634.00.

BCA Requirements

MIS Director Peder Hovland and Systems Administrator John Butenhoff informed the board that Lake of the Woods County is not in compliance with the BCA policy regarding the need to monitor logs weekly.

Sheriff

Credit Card Increase- Jill Hasbargen-Olson

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the request to raise the credit card limit for Jill Hasbargen-Olson from the standard amount of $1,500.00 to $5,000.

Recess

With no further business before the Board, Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 11:26 a.m.

Attest: March 28, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chairman Ed Arnesen

February 14, 2023

February 14, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 14, 2023 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:00a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Cody Hasbargen, Buck Nordlof, Jon Waibel, Ed Arnesen and Joe Grund. Also present was Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: EDA, Legislative Update, Fair Board Solid Waste. 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of January 24, 2023.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $19,611.20; Commissioners Warrants $4,834.73; Commissioners Warrants $6,166.24.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $110,302.82; Road & Bridge $159,369.26; County Development $7,750.55.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/14/2023 For Payment 2/17/2023

Vendor Name Amount

Andy’s Garage, Inc. 3,079.16

ByteSpeed, LLC 6,250.00

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 20,544.83

Counties Providing Technology 4,204.00

Ferrellgas 6,655.90

Hildi Inc 3,950.00

Howard’s Oil Company 5,227.57

Information Systems Corporation 9,910.00

Integris LLC 3,315.75

Lake of the Woods Electric LLC 4,008.85

Lakeside Fire & Safety Inc 2,684.35

Lavalla Sand & Gravel Inc 57,690.50

LOW Highway Dept 7,585.00

Mar-Kit Landfill 15,700.50

Mark Sand & Gravel Co. 59,202.50

Mn Dept Of Transp 3,559.28

Nw Mn Household Hazardous 7,209.00

Pennington County Sheriff Office 5,180.45

Quadient Finance USA Inc. 3,000.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc 2,444.00

Rainy Lake Oil, Inc 2,284.76

Ziegler, Inc 3,921.05

75 Payments less than 2000 39,815.18

Final Total: 277,422.63

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: January 25, 2023 for $13,694.06; February 8, 2023 for $112,598.43.

2023 Pay Equity

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the 2023 Pay Equity Report as presented.

Economic Development Authority

The board discussed the EDA Director vacancy and possible options.

Assessors

Approval of Credit Card Request

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the request for a county credit card for Emily Brandt at the standard amount of $1500.00.

Human Resources

Juneteenth

It was the consensus of the board to discuss the approval of Juneteenth as a county holiday at another board meeting.

Permission to Advertise, Interview, & Hire- Part-Time Deputy

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise, interview, & hire a part-time Deputy at Grade 13, Step 1, $24.73 per hour at 282 points.

Permission to Hire Social Worker

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the request to hire a Social Worker at Grade 13, Step 2, $25.26 per hour at 298 points.

Update

Commissioner Ed Arnesen gave a brief update on the union meeting that took place on 2/13/2023.

Public Works

Permission to Purchase Skid Steer Trailers

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of two skid steer trailers in the amount of $27,000 from Midsota Trailers. 

FEMA Update/Public Access Quotes

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update to the board on the progress with FEMA and that they have approved $415,384.02 for the work already completed.

Public Access

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the request to get quotes for Birch Beach and Rocky Point public accesses.

Credit Card Limit Increase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the credit card increase request for Jane Larson from the standard $1500.00 to $3000.00.

Ditch Authority

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the ditch authority.

JD 28 Discussion

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl discussed JD 28 repairs and requested approval to get quotes.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to close the ditch authority and open the regular meeting.

JD 28 Repair Quotes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the request to get quotes for the repair of JD 28. 

Fairground Solid Waste Fee

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to use con-con funds to pay the solid waste fee currently on the fairground parcel in the amount of $611.00 and then re-evaluate the fee at a later date for future solid waste fees.

Correspondence 

The board reviewed correspondence from Lake of the Woods Food Shelf.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 9:45 a.m. and reconvened at 10:00 a.m.

Land & Water

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #23-01CU by Daniel Miller

The Southeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter (SE¼NE¼), and Government Lot Four (4), Section Eleven (11), Township One Hundred Sixty-seven (167) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West of the Fifth Principal Meridian, and subject to flowage easement by the United States Government. – Parcel ID# 06.11.41.000. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to construct an inland harbor connected to Lake of the Woods, which was permitted by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources in 2003. Also, the applicant is requesting the cumulative movement of more than fifty (50) cubic yards of material outside of the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of disposing dredged material. Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following Conditional Use Permit/Findings of Fact by Daniel Miller to construct an inland harbor connected to Lake of the Woods, which was permitted by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources in 2003 and the cumulative movement of more than fifty (50) cubic yards of material outside of the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of disposing dredged material. Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake with the following conditions: Follow DNR Plans and Approvals.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Daniel Miller Date:  February 14, 2023

Location/Legal Description:  The Southeast quarter of the Northeast quarter (SE¼NE¼), and Government Lot Four (4), Section Eleven (11), Township One Hundred Sixty-seven (167) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West of the Fifth Principal Meridian, and subject to flowage easement by the United States Government. – Parcel ID# 06.11.41.000.

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to construct an inland harbor connected to Lake of the Woods, which was permitted by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources in 2003. Also, the applicant is requesting the cumulative movement of more than fifty (50) cubic yards of material outside of the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of disposing dredged material. Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake.

  1. Is the project proposal consistent with the Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Land Use Plan? YES (X) NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? Safe harbor.

2. Is the project proposal consistent with maintaining the public health, safety, and welfare?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

  1. Is the project proposal consistent with the goal of preventing and controlling water pollution, including sedimentation and nutrient loading?                        YES (X) NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? Material to be deposited on land.

  1. Will the project proposal not adversely affect the site’s existing topography, drainage features, and vegetative cover?                                            YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? Will not change.

  1. Is the project proposal’s site location reasonable in relation to any floodplain and/or floodway of rivers or tributaries? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

  1. Has the erosion potential of the site based upon the degree and direction of slope, soil type and existing vegetative cover been adequately addressed for the project proposal? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

  1. Is the site in harmony with existing and proposed access roads?     YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

  1. Is the project proposal compatible with adjacent land uses? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

9. Does the project proposal have a reasonable need to be in a shoreland location? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? Harbor on a island.

  1. Is the amount of liquid waste to be generated reasonable and the proposed sewage disposal system adequate to accommodate the project proposal? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

  1. Will the visibility of structures and other facilities as viewed from public waters comply with Section 901 of the Zoning Ordinance?         YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

  1. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

  1. Are the affected public waters suited to and able to safely accommodate the types, uses, and numbers of watercraft that the project proposal will generate? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

  1. If the project proposal includes above ground or below ground storage tanks for petroleum or other hazardous material that is subject to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) requirements, has a permit been sought? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

  1. Will there be fencing and/or other screening provided to buffer the project proposal from adjacent properties?

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? Natural vegetation.

  1. If signage is associated with the project proposal, has the applicant demonstrated the need for the number and size requested, and minimized the visual appearance as viewed from adjacent properties to the extent possible? 

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

  1. If the project proposal will generate additional traffic to or from the site, has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the additional traffic and parking is to be addressed? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

If all answers to the Findings of Fact-Criteria are either “Yes” or are “Not Applicable” to the request, the criteria for granting the conditional use permit have been met. The conditional use permit will maintain the goals of safety, health, and general welfare of the public.  

The specific conditions of approval are as follows:  Follow DNR plans and approvals.

Approved  as Presented  (   ) Approved with Conditions  (X) Denied  (  )

February 14, 2023 _____________________________________

Date Ed Arnesen Chair, County Board

Northwest Community Action-Family Services

Family Services Manager Sharon Millner gave an update to the board on various topics that included: Federally funded programs, Energy assistance, Transportation, Crisis Support, and Grants.

Legislative Update

Commissioner Ed Arnesen gave an update that included: Williams School, PILT, and Tourism.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 10:40a.m. and reconvened at 1:00p.m.

Public Hearing-Wetlands Appeal

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the public hearing with the following members present: Commissioners: Ed Arnesen, Jon Waibel, Cody Hasbargen, Buck Nordlof, Joe Grund. Also Present: Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, County Attorney James Austad, Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund, Robert Audette, Jennifer Audette, and Woody Fiala.

Wetlands Appeal-Robert & Jennifer Audette

The board reviewed the appeal presented by Robert and Jennifer Audette regarding a wetlands replacement plan.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the public hearing and open the regular meeting.

Wetlands Appeal-Robert & Jennifer Audette

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to deny the wetlands appeal as presented by Robert & Jennifer Audette sighting the findings of fact report from the Technical Evaluation Panel. 

Recess

With no further business before the Board, Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 1:30 p.m.

Attest: February 28, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chairman Ed Arnesen

January 24, 2023

January 24, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

Vice-Chair Cody Hasbargen called the meeting to order at 9:00a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Cody Hasbargen, Buck Nordlof, Jon Waibel and Joe Grund. Also present was Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. Absent: Commissioner Ed Arnesen.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Correspondence, Set Public Hearing, EDA Appointment.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of January 10, 2023.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $6,515.41; Commissioners Warrants $3,584.82; Commissioners Warrants $12,145.76

Contract Renewal-Schackman, Kramer and Associates

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the contract renewal with Schackman, Kramer, & Associates for medication management.

Border Bank Signature Cards-Child Support Account

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to remove Shelley Pepera from the Border Bank account ending in 4739 and to authorize Sheri Stebakken and Jo Aery to sign the Border Bank signature card for account number 4739 effective March 3, 2023. 

Riverwood Bank Signature Cards-Social Welfare Account

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to remove Shelley Pepera from the Riverwod Bank account ending in 6476 and to authorize Jodi Ferrier and Sheri Stebakken to sign the Riverwood Bank signature card for account number 6476 effective March 3, 2023. 

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $81,120.16; Road & Bridge $33,102.36; County Development $1,890.08; Natl Resc Enhanc $44.24; Solid Waste $8,373.49; EDA $1290.66.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 1/24/2023 For Payment 1/27/2023

Vendor Name Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 20,878.48

Counties Providing Technology 5,104.00

Farmers Union Oil Co. 5,079.50

Headwaters Regional Development Commiss 3,500.00

Integris LLC 2,060.75

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 7,915.00

Motorola Solutions, Inc 16,422.91

Northern Light Region 4,069.00

Pennington County Sheriff Office 20,249.81

Sandpieper Design Inc. 3,660.66

St. Louis County Auditor 2,000.00

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

Voyageurs Comtronics, Inc 2,640.00

42 Payments less than 2000 25,972.38

Final Total: 125,820.99

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: January 11,2023 for $56,416.64; January 13, 2023 for ($97.00); January 17, 2023 for $329,168.22; January 18, 2023 for 134,272.08.

Transfer of Funds

Motion

Motion by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and unanimously carried to approve the transfer of funds effective 12/31/2022 from the County Ditch #26 Fund to repay the Revenue Fund for loans in the following amounts:

Ditch 26 Principal Interest Total

Loan #1     540.00         33.22 $     573.22

Loan #2  10,401.60 $530.59 $10,932.19

EDA Appointment

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to adopt the following resolution:

Re-Appointment of Terms of the economic development authority

Resolution 23-1-5

Whereas Lake of the Woods County Board, pursuant to MN Statute §469.093, Subd.1 has provided a public notice and conducted a public hearing on September 14, 2010 to consider the creation of an Economic Development Authority and adopted the Enabling Resolution creating the same; and

Whereas the County Board of Commissioners of the County of Lake of the Woods adopted the following:

The EDA shall consist of a governing body of nine (9) members, as per the adopted Enabling Resolution, of which: Five (5) Sitting Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Four (4) Members shall be nominated by the following organizations and appointed by the County Board:

Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to recommend appointment

Chamber of Commerce to recommend appointment

Lake of the Woods Tourism to recommend appointment

City of Baudette to recommend appointment

The Board Members and 6-year terms are established as follows:

Board Member Term Expires Representing

Brock Stebakken 12/31/2023 City of Baudette

James “Buck” Nordlof 12/31/2023 County Board District 1

Jeff Bauers 12/31/2024 IDC

Paul Johnson 12/31/2024 Tourism Board

Ed Arnesen 12/31/2025 County Board District 5

Jon Waibel 12/31/2025 County Board District 4

Brittney Peterson 12/31/2026 Chamber of Commerce

Cody Hasbargen 12/31/2027 County Board District 2 

Joe Grund 12/31/2028 County Board District 3

Whereas the City of Baudette member is to be replaced;

Now, therefore, be it resolved that the County Board of Commissioners of the County of Lake of the Woods hereby appoints the following board member for a 1-year term to complete the term of Brock Stebakken;

Board Member Term Expires Representing

Steve Theis Jr. 12/31/2023 City of Baudette

Set Public Hearing

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set a public hearing date for April 11, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. with Mike Hirst to discuss the Rainy-Rapid Watershed Plan.

Sheriff

Approval of Federal Boat & Water Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Federal Boat & Water Grant in the amount of $3,744.00.

Joining the Meeting

Chair Ed Arnesen joined the meeting at 9:20 a.m.

Public Works

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects.

Approval of Bid

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the bid from Korby Contracting in the amount of $628,133.20 for SAP 039-598-071.

Permission to Advertise Bid

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise for bids for SAP 039-608-026

Approval of Title VI

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve Title VI non-discrimination implementation plan to receive federal funds. 

Permission to Replace Boilers

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of new boilers for Solid Waste for $19,556.99. 

Permission to Purchase New Tools and Safety Equipment for Solid Waste

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of new tools in the amount of $5,740.66 and safety related items in the amount of $2,269.55.

Tourism Support Resolution

Resolution

The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following:

Lake of the Woods Lodging Tax Collection

RESOLUTION NO. 23-01-04

WHEREAS, counties in Minnesota are not authorized to impose a local lodging tax, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 469.190, except in the cases of joint powers agreements and on behalf of unorganized township where the county board acts as the unorganized township’s board; and, 

WHEREAS, such a tax of 3% was imposed in certain areas in Lake of the Woods County beginning in 1989, and continues to the present day, but is now only imposed in the unorganized townships of Lake of the Woods County, and the City of Baudette no longer participates in the Tourism Bureau funded by the local lodging tax but may instead impose a separate lodging tax pursuant to Minnesota Statute 469.190; and,

WHEREAS, the revenue raised since the lodging tax’s original inception and the accompanying advertising has resulted in the area becoming an international star in recreational fishing, which in turn has significant impact on businesses throughout northern Minnesota and neighboring counties; and,

WHEREAS, the body of water named “Lake of the Woods”, is under the jurisdiction of Lake of the Woods County until Canadian waters, and is not under the jurisdiction of any city, municipality, or township. A county-wide lodging tax clears up any jurisdictional question imposing a lodging tax on facilities located on the ice during the winter months; and,

WHEREAS, the vast majority of all taxes collected are related resorts and fishing, including ice fishing houses that provide lodging; and,

WHEREAS, the purpose of the lodging tax is to raise revenue to fund a local tourism bureau for the purpose of marketing and promoting the County of Lake of the Woods. 

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners seeks special legislation authorizing the County to impose a tax of up to three percent (3%) on gross receipts subject to the same rules and laws as the lodging tax allowed under Minnesota Statutes section 469.190. The county-wide tax would not be imposed on any lodging facilities located within the City of Baudette.

Approval of the Memorandum of Understanding

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Memorandum of Understanding between Lake of the Woods County and Koochiching County regarding the housing of inmates.

Correspondence

The board reviewed correspondence from the DNR and Minnkota Power.

Recess

With no further business before the Board, Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 10:12 a.m.

Attest: February 14, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chairman Ed Arnesen

January 10, 2023

January 10, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:00a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Cody Hasbargen, Buck Nordlof, Ed Arnesen and Joe Grund. Also present was Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. Absent: Commissioner Jon Waibel.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Law Enforcement City Contract, Auditors Engagement Letter, and Koochiching County Correspondence. 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of December 29, 2022.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of January 3, 2023. 

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $27,258.98; Commissioners Warrants $2,259.09; Commissioners Warrants $4,746.55.

Northland Counseling Purchase of Service Agreement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously, with Commissioner Cody Hasbargen abstaining, to approve the purchase of service agreement between Lake of the Woods County and Northland Counseling for clinical supervision and CTSS services for children and for the Chair Ed Arnesen and Social Services Director Amy Ballard to sign the same.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $273,054.15; Road & Bridge $91,636.18; Joint Ditch $40,153.65; Solid Waste $36,948.41; EDA $1,983.00.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 1/10/2023 For Payment 1/13/2023

Vendor Name Amount

Air Med Care Network 16,803.00

Avenu Insights & Analytics 6,896.84

BDT Mechanical,LLC 2,228.50

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 5,151.02

Commissioner Of Transportation 15,000.00

Howard’s Oil Company 9,795.70

Little Falls Machine, Inc 3,928.61

LOW Highway Dept 40,153.65

LOW Soil & Water Cons. Dist. 101,188.00

Mar-Kit Landfill 10,832.50

Mn Assn Of Counties 7,852.00

Mn Counties Computer Co-Op 19,432.19

MN Counties Intergovernmental Trust 162,424.00

OnSolve,LLC 7,875.00

Schneider Geospatial, LLC 8,400.00

University of North Dakota 9,520.90

29 Payments less than 2000 16,293.48

Final Total: 443,775.39

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: December 30, 2022 for $128,726.01, January 4, 2023 for 159,322.40.

Auditor Engagement Letter Motion

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the Audit Engagement Letter, for the year ended December 31, 2022, with Hoffman, Philipp, & Martell, PLLC and for Chair Ed Arnesen and Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Assessors

Grade Increase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve a grade increase for Emily Brandt to reflect her receiving her CMA License from Assessment Tech I to Assessment Tech II Grade 12, Step 2, $23.97 per hour at 281 points effective next full pay period.

EDA Director

Economic Development Authority (EDA) Director Ryan Zemek met with the board to inform them that he has recently accepted a position with Widseth, Smith & Nolting and to give his formal resignation for the EDA Director position. Ryan Zemek offered to assist with the transition in finding a new EDA Director.

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl joined by phone to give a brief update on various projects and to discuss his input on the upcoming public hearing for road vacation.

Human Resources

Permission to Hire Heavy Equipment Operator

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve new hire Corey Olson as Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) at Grade 11, Step 1, $22.28 per hour, at 265 points effective 1/3/2023.

Permission to Advertise, Interview, & Hire- Social Worker

Human Resources Director Savanna Slick came to the meeting to inform the board that Shelley Pepera will be retiring effective March 3rd, 2023 and to request permission to advertise, interview, and hire a social worker in her place. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise, interview, and hire a social worker at Grade 13, Step 1, $24.73 per hour at 298 points. 

Correspondence- Koochiching County

The board reviewed correspondence from Koochiching County.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to have the County Attorney James Austad drat a memorandum of understanding between Lake of the Woods County and Koochiching County and to have this ready to approve at the next board meeting.

Sheriff 

Law Enforcement Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Law Enforcement contract between Lake of the Woods County, Lake of the Woods County Sheriff, and the City of Baudette effective January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2025

Recess

A brief recess took place at 9:51 a.m. and reconvened at 10:00 a.m.

Public Hearing- Road Vacation

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the Public Hearing for Road Vacation.

Petition for Road Vacation 

Present at the hearing were Commissioners: Ed Arnesen, Cody Hasbargen, Buck Nordlof, and Joe Grund. Also present: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund, Woody Fiala, Bertel Anundson, Nancy Anundson, and Wes Hasbargen. The board reviewed the request from Bertel and Nancy Anundson to vacate the roads within the Plat of Pitt and took questions from surrounding neighbors.

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the public hearing and open the regular meeting. 

Approval of Road Vacation

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Joe Grund and moved for adoption:

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY BOARD TO APPROVE THE VACATION OF ALL ROADS WITHIN THE PLAT OF PITT 

Resolution No. 23-01-03

WHEREAS, the issue of vacating the following described roads was raised and discussed at the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners Meeting.

The proposed roads to be vacated are Main Street, Sanborn Ave, and alleys in Blocks 1,2,3,&4 in the Plat of Pitt.

WHEREAS, Minn. Stat. § 164.06, subd. 1 allows a county board to initiate the town road establishment, vacation, or alteration procedure contained in Minn. Stat. § 164.07 upon receiving authorization of the town electors; 

WHEREAS, the county commissioners determined it is in the best interests of the town to authorize the county to initiate the road procedure in Minn. Stat. § 164.07.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby authorize the county to initiate the road vacation procedure in Minn. Stat. § 164.07 regarding the above referenced roads. 

The resolution was seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 10:16 a.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m.

Public Hearing-Replacement Plan Appeal

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the public hearing. 

Replacement Plan (Wetlands) Appeal

Present at the hearing were Commissioners: Ed Arnesen, Cody Hasbargen, Buck Nordlof, and Joe Grund. Also present: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, County Attorney James Austad, Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund, Mike Hirst, Woody Fiala, Robert Audette, and Jennifer Audette. 

The board reviewed the appeal from Robert & Jennifer Audette.

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the public hearing and open the regular meeting.

Motion to Include Exhibits in Official Record

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to include the exhibits presented at the public hearing in the official record.

Motion to extend the Public Hearing

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to extend the public hearing to February 14, 2023 at 1:00p.m.

Recess

With no further business before the Board, Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 2:10 p.m.

Attest: January 24, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chairman Ed Arnesen

January 3, 2023

COMMISSIONER PROCEEDINGS

January 3, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, January 3, 2023 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson called the meeting to order at 9:00a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Cody Hasbargen, Buck Nordlof, Jon Waibel, Ed Arnesen and Joe Grund. Also present was County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson.

Swearing in of Elected Commissioners

County Recorder Sue Ney swore in elected Commissioners Joe Grund and Buck Nordlof.

Election of Chair and Vice Chair 

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson called for nominations for Chair for Lake of the Woods County Board for the year 2023. Commissioner Cody Hasbargen nominated Commissioner Ed Arnesen for Chair with Commissioner Joe Grund seconding the nomination. County Auditor/Treasurer called for nominations two more times.

Chair
Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the nominations for Chair.

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson called for a roll call for Commissioner Ed Arnesen for Chair.  Roll call carried as follows: All in favor: Commissioners: Jon Waibel, Cody Hasbargen, Ed Arnesen, Joe Grund and Buck Nordlof.  Against:  None.  Commissioner Ed Arnesen assumed the position of Chair of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners for 2023.

Vice – Chair

Chair Ed Arnesn called for nominations for the position of Vice-Chair for the year 2023.  Commissioner Joe Grund nominated Commissioner Cody Hasbargen for Vice-Chair for Lake of the Woods County Board with Commissioner Jon Waibel seconding the nomination. Chair Ed Arnesen called for nominations two more times.  

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to close the nominations for Vice-Chair.  

Chair Buck Nordlof called for a roll call for Commissioner Cody Hasbargen for Vice-Chair.  Roll call carried as follows: All in favor: Commissioners, Jon Waibel, Cody Hasbargen, Ed Arnesen, Joe Grund and Buck Nordlof.  Against:  None.  Commissioner Cody Hasbargen assumed the position of Vice-Chair of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners for 2023.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda.

OFFICIAL COUNTY NEWSPAPER BID-OPENING

Chair Ed Arnesen called for the bid opening at 9:15 a.m. for the Official Legal Newspaper for the year 2023.The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof  and unanimously moved for adoption:                                                      
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING
OFFICIAL LEGAL NEWSPAPER for YEAR 2023                                                         Resolution No. 2023-01-01WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners per Minnesota Statutes 279.08 called for legal bids for the official newspaper for the year 2023WHEREAS, upon opening all bids, Lake of the Woods County designates the Northern Light Region as the official legal newspaper for the year 2023;WHEREAS, the Northern Light Region, as the official legal newspaper for the year 2023, is awarded the first publication of the annual financial statement at $7.00 per standard advertising unit, (no other bids received, therefore no second publication required);WHEREAS, the Northern Light Region, as the official legal newspaper for the year 2023, is awarded the first publication of the notice and list of the real estate remaining delinquent taxes on the first Monday of January, at $7.00 per standard advertising unit and; WHEREAS, the Northern Light Region, as the official legal newspaper for the year 2023, is awarded the second publication of the notice and list of the real estate remaining delinquent taxes, at $7.00 per standard advertising unit, and;BE IT RESOLVED, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners further designates the Northern Light Region for all other legal publishing, not specified above, for the year 2023. 
Lake of the Woods County
Bid Tabulation
Legal Publishing 
Year 2023
January 3, 2023
Per Standard Advertising Unit
Financial StatementDelinquent Tax ListAll Other Publications
1st Publ.2nd Publ1st Publ2nd Publ        
Northern Light Region
PO Box 1134
 7.00        7.007.007.007.007.00
Baudette, MN  56623
218-634-2700
Award To:
Official Legal Newspaper
Northern Light Region
1st Publ/Financial Stmnt
7.00 
2nd Publ/Financial Stmnt If applicable7.00N/A 
1st Delinq Tax List
7.00       
2nd Delinq Tax List
7.00         
All Other
7.00         

County Auditor/treasurer

Bank Signature Cards

RiverWood Bank/Wells Fargo Bank Signature Cards

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Connie Nesmith and Chair Ed Arnesen to sign the Wells Fargo signature cards for account numbers 3908 and 6372 and to sign the RiverWood Bank signature cards for account numbers 3846, 6443, and 6484.

RiverWood Bank Signature Cards

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson and Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Connie Nesmith to sign the RiverWood Bank signature card for account number 8645 and investments.

Border Bank Signature Cards

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson and Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Connie Nesmith to sign the Border Bank signature card for account number 2404.

RiverWood Bank Motor Vehicle Checking Account

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Erik Tange, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Anna Sanchez, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Connie Nesmith and Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Chelsea Anderson for account number 6450.

Official Depositories

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to designate the following institutions as Official Depositories of county funds for the year 2023:

  1. RiverWood Bank, Baudette Branch
  2. Border Bank, Baudette Branch
  3. Multi Bank Securities
  4. Wells Fargo Bank

It was further moved to designate RiverWood Bank, as the official safekeeping Institution for Lake of the Woods County.  

Elected Officials – Minimum Salaries

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson presented the 2023 Minimum Salaries for Elected Officials to the board for approval.

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Jon Waibel and moved for adoption:

Resolution For

Establishing Minimum Salaries for Elective Offices

Resolution No. 2023-01-02

WHEREAS, M.S. 388.18, Subd. 2, (County Attorney), M.S. 386.015, Subd. 2b, (County Recorder), and M.S. 387.20, Subd. 2b, (County Sheriff), requires the County Board, at the January meeting prior to the first date on which applicants may file for County elective offices, to establish minimum annual salaries to be paid to the respective office holders at the term next following;

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the following statutory minimum annual salaries are hereby established for county elective offices for the term beginning in January of the year 2023:

County Attorney: $93,350.40

County Recorder: $70,948.80

County Sheriff: $79,164.80

The motion was seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

IRS Mileage Rate

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to accept the IRS Mileage rate for 2023, to approve any changes in the rate from the IRS throughout the year of 2023, and to approve an additional 10 cents to veteran volunteer drivers. 

Approval of 2023 Committees

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following committees for the year 2023:

2023 ASSOCIATION OF MINNESOTA COUNTIES (AMC)

Ag Task Force: Commissioner Jon Waibel; Alternates: Commissioners;

Environmental and Natural Resources: Commissioner Ed Arnesen; Alternates: Commissioners;

General Government: Commissioner Buck Nordlof; Alternates: Lorene Hanson and Commissioners;

Health and Human Service: Commissioner Joe Grund and Amy Ballard; Alternates: Commissioners;

PILT Advisory: Commissioners and Josh Stromlund;

Public Safety: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Transportation and Area Transportation Alliance: Commissioner Jon Waibel and Anthony Pirkl; Alternates: Commissioners;

2023 COUNTY RELATED COMMITTEES

Airport Commission:  Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Beaver Committee: Commissioner Joe Grund, Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Bruce Erickson, Anthony Pirkl and Steve Levassuer;

Border Coalition/Passports: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Jon Waibel, Sue Ney and Jill Olson;

Building and Safety Committee: Commissioner Jon Waibel, Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Anthony Pirkl, Peder Hovland, Lorene Hanson, Amy Ballard, one from Law Enforcement, and Safety Director;

Continuity of Operation Plan (COOP): Jill Olson and Commissioners;

County Extension Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Lorene Hanson.  Additional Members: Tabitha Ubel, Kenneth Horntvedt, Dean Thompson, Colleen Stanton and Sandy Peterson. Extension Members: Brenda Nelson, Lisa Loegering and Karen Santl. 

County TV:  Commissioner Joe Grund, Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Lee Hervey, Lorene Hanson, Peder Hovland and Jill Olson;

Data Privacy Administrator: Savanna Slick;

Department Head Liaison: Chair/Commissioner Ed Arnesen; Alternates: Commissioners;

Department Liaisons:  

Assessor – Commissioner Buck Nordlof;

Land and Water Planning Office – Commissioner Joe Grund;

Attorney – Commissioner Ed Arnesen; 

MIS – Commissioner Joe Grund; 

Sheriff – Commissioner Cody Hasbargen; 

Social Services – Commissioner Buck Nordlof; 

Recorder – Commissioner Jon Waibel; 

Highway – Commissioner Jon Waibel; 

Auditor/Treasurer – Commissioner Ed Arnesen; 

H/R – Commissioner Cody Hasbargen; 

County Surveyor- Commissioner Joe Grund;

Veterans Service Officer – Commissioner Cody Hasbargen; 

Tourism Bureau- Commissioner Ed Arnesen; 

Wheelers Point Sewer- Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Economic Development Authority- Commissioner Jon Waibel

Department of Natural Resources: Commissioner Ed Arnesen and Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Drainage Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Joe Grund, Byron Tviet, Anthony Pirkl, Josh Stromlund, Dennis Johnson, Marshall Nelson and SWCD Representative;

Enhanced 911 Committee: Commissioner Buck Nordlof and Commissioner Jon Waibel, Eric Solo, Gary Fish, Jill Olson and other local appointees;

GIZIIBII: SWCD Representative Corryn Trask;

Grievance Committee: Chair/Commissioner Ed Arnesen, James Austad, Savanna Slick, Daryl Fish, Josh Stromlund and Angie Eason; Alternate: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Information Systems/Technology Committee: Commissioner Joe Grund, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Peder Hovland, Josh Stromlund, Boyd Johnson, Lorene Hanson and James Austad; 

Insurance Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Jon Waibel, Amy Ballard, Lorene Hanson, Sue Ney, Daryl Fish and Savanna Slick;

Jail Committee: Commissioners, Gary Fish, Anthony Pirkl, James Austad, Tami Mauer, Peder Hovland and Lorene Hanson;

Joint Drainage Authority: 

JD22: Commissioner Joe Grund-District 3, Commissioner Ed Arnesen-District 5, Commissioner Jon Waibel-District 4; 

JD 62: Commissioner Joe Grund- District 3, Commissioner Ed Arnesen-District 5, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen-District 2; 

Labor/Management Committees: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Savanna Slick; Alternate: Commissioner Buck Nordlof;

Lake of the Woods Affordable Housing/Loan Committee: Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Sue Ney, Alisa Jacobsen and Lorene Hanson; Alternate:  Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Law Library:  Commissioner Ed Arnesen, James Austad to appoint and Chief Judge to appoint;

Legislative Committee:  Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Jon Waibel.

Motor Pool Committee: Commissioner Jon Waibel, Lorene Hanson, Jodi Ferrier, Alisa Jacobsen, Josh Stromlund, Peder Hovland; Alternate:  Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Ordinance Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Jon Waibel, James Austad, Gary Fish, Josh Stromlund; 

Park Commission: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Anthony Pirkl and Joe Laurin; Alternate: Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Personnel Committee (combined Compensation Plan and Personnel): Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Savanna Slick, Sue Ney, Anthony Pirkl, Christine Hultman, Lorene Hanson and Daryl Fish;   

Public Information Officer: Lorene Hanson; Alternate: Savanna Slick and James Austad;

SHIP Committee: Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Alternate: Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Snowmobile Trails Committee: Commissioner Joe Grund and Commissioner Buck Nordlof;

Solid Waste Committee/Household Waste: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen (as the (NWMNHHW representative for the Joint Powers Agreement), Commissioner Joe Grund, Anthony Pirkl, Tina Rennemo, Lorene Hanson and Alisa Jacobsen; 

Subdivision Controls Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Josh Stromlund, Alisa Jacobsen, Sue Ney, Peder Hovland and Commissioner of the District involved;

Township Road and Trails: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Anthony Pirkl, Josh Stromlund, Peder Hovland, Boyd Johnson and Alisa Jacobsen;  

Northwest Angle Development: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen; Alternates: Commissioners;

Vets Service: Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Commissioner Joe Grund, Legion Commander or Delegate, VFW Commander or Delegate and Rick Rone;

Wellness Committee: Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Angie Eason, Julie Berggren, Savanna Slick, Cassondra Brune;

2023 BOARDS/COLLABORATIVE/COALITION

Arrowhead Library System:  Colleen Stanton (01/01/23-12-31-26); Alternate: Commissioner Buck Nordlof (01-01-22-12-31-25);

Board of Adjustment-/Planning Commission: District 1- David Marhula, District 2-Monica Dohman, District 3- Marshall Nelson, District 4- Tom Mio, District 5-Nancy Dunnell; at large; Ken Horntvedt and Weston Johnson; non-voting Commissioners;

Border Substance Abuse Court and Steering Committee: Commissioner Jon Waibel and Amy Ballard;

Humane Society: Commissioner Joe Grund and Gary Fish;

Headwaters Regional Development Commission: Commissioner Ed Arnesen and Commissioner Buck Nordlof; Alternate: Commissioner Joe Grund;

Joint Powers Natural Resources Board: Commissioner Joe Grund and Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Keep It Clean Committee/Aquatic Invasive Species: Commissioner Ed Arnesen;

Lake of the Woods County Children and Families Collaborative and Prevention Coalition Committee:   Commissioner Joe Grund;

Lake of the Woods Criminal Justice Coalition and Children’s Justice Initiative: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Lutheran Social Service Board: Commissioner Buck Nordlof and Amy Ballard; Alternate: Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Mid-State Co-op: Delegate #1 – Peder Hovland, Delegate #2 – Alisa Jacobsen;

Minnesota Counties Computer Co-op: Delegate #1 – Peder Hovland, Delegate #2 – Lorene Hanson; Alternate: James Austad; 

Minnesota Counties Intergovernmental Trust: Commissioner Jon Waibel; Alternates: Commissioner Buck Nordlof and Lorene Hanson;

Minnesota Rural Counties Caucus: Commissioner Ed Arnesen; Alternates: Commissioners;

North Country Community Health Board:  Commissioner Joe Grund (term expires 12/31/25) and Tom Mio (term expires 12/31/23) these are three-year terms;

North Country Community Health Services Advisory Committee: re-appoint Commissioner Joe Grund (term expires 12/31/25) and Tom Mio (term expires 12/31/23) these are two-year terms;

Northern Coalition Regional Charging Network: Cody Hasbargen

Northern Counties Land Use Coordinating Board: Commissioner Ed Arnesen and Josh Stromlund; Alternates: Commissioner Buck Nordlof and Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Northwest Board of Aging/Area Agency: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and Amy Ballard; Alternates: Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Northwest Community Action:  Commissioner Ed Arnesen and Commissioner Jon Waibel; Alternates: Commissioners;

Northwest Minnesota Juvenile Center Board: Amy Ballard (term expires 12/31/2026, appointed in 2023).  This is a four-year term;

One Watershed/One Plan: Commissioner Ed Arnesen; Alternate: Commissioner Buck Nordlof;

Rainy Rapid River Board: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and Josh Stromlund; Alternate: Commissioner Joe Grund;

Recreation Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Jon Waibel and Anthony Pirkl;

Red River Valley Development Association:  Commissioner Ed Arnesen and Ken Horntvedt;

Regional Advisory: Jill Olson;

Rainy Rapid Water Shed One Plan Committee: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Nancy Dunnell; John Sonstegard;

NW Emergency Communications Board: Commissioner Ed Arnesen; Alternates: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and Jill Olson;

SWCD District Committee: Commissioner Joe Grund and Josh Stromlund; Alternate Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Housing & Redevelopment Authority of Baudette: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen; Alternate Commissioner Buck Nordlof.

Joint Jail Koochiching County Committee: Commissioner Jon Waibel, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Sheriff Gary Fish, Tami Mauer, James Austad, Lorene Hanson; Alternate: Craig Severs. 

DITCH AUTHORITY

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open ditch authority.

Ditch Assessments

The following Ditch Assessments were recommended by the Ditch Authority and presented to the County Board for 2023:

  • CD 1: $22,800.00
  • CD 2: $882.40
    • JD 16: $8,500.00
    • JD 24: $16,000.00
    • JD 26: $24,000.00
    • JD 28:  $50,000.00
  • JD 22:  $4,800.00 (Joint Ditch with Roseau County)
  • JD 62: $16,900.00 (Joint Ditch with Roseau County)

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof  and carried unanimously to close the Ditch Authority meeting and reconvene the regular meeting.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the recommendations of the Ditch Authority to set the 2023 Ditch Assessments as follows: County Ditch 1-$22,800; County Ditch 2-$882.40, Judicial Ditch 16 Outlet Fee- $8,500; Judicial Ditch 24- $16,000; Judicial Ditch 26- $24,000; Judicial Ditch 28-$50,000; Judicial Ditch 22-Joint Ditch with Roseau-$4,800; Joint Ditch 62 with Roseau-$16,900.

Set County Road Tour Date

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to set the county road tour date for October 18, 2023 with the time being determined at a later date.

Extension Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Extension Contract increasing from  ½ time to ¾ time, a $20,000 program increase. 

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 9:50 a.m.

Attest: January 10, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chairman Ed Arnesen

December 29, 2022

December 29, 2022

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Thursday, December 29, 2022 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

Call To Order

Vice- Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:00a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Jon Waibel, Joe Grund, Cody Hasbargen, and Ed Arnesen. Also present was County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson.  Absent: Commissioner Buck Nordlof.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Set Hearing Date: Wetlands Appeal. 

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the minutes from December 13, 2022.

Social Services

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $4,418.88; Commissioners Warrants $7,513.13; Commissioners Warrants $7,831.72.

Sanford TRF-Purchase of Services Agreement: Community Based Services ( Adult Mental Health)

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the Purchase of Services Agreement between Sanford Thief River Falls and Lake of the Woods County for community based services for adult mental health and to have the County Board Chair Buck Nordlof and Social Services Director Amy Ballard sign the same.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $170,454.60; Road & Bridge $21,370.91; Social Services $4,950.00; County Development $860.00; Solid Waste $23,232.07.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 12/29/2022 For Payment 12/30/2022

Vendor Name Amount

Accurate HD Ltd. 2,439.00

American Solutions For Business 2,237.33

Deputy Registrar No.75 10,162.65

Freeberg & Grund, Inc 4,000.00

GM Construction Inc 6,454.94

Hiller Commercial Floors 86,210.30

Lake Country Chev 45,031.88

LOW Highway Dept 5,140.84

Mn Counties Computer Co-Op 2,558.80

North East Technical Service,Inc 3,535.00

Outdoors Again 2,865.31

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

University Of Mn 9,618.63

West Central Regional Juvenile Center 4,950.00

49 Payments less than 2000 29,394.40

Final Total: 220,867.58

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: December 14, 2022 for $79,557.07; December 21, 2022 for $19,445.27; December 28, 2022 for $8,725.96.

Salaries

2023 Elected Officials & Non-Elected Department Heads Salaries

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund to adopt the following County Commissioners salaries schedule and County Board Chair salary schedule for the year 2023; and to adopt a committee meeting per diem of $125.00 for the year 2023.  The motion was seconded by Jon Waibel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Elected Officials – Commissioners:

Commissioners $23,000                        

Board Chair $24,000         

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen to adopt a Technology Fee of $50.00 per month for County Commissioners for the year 2023. (Technology fee reimbursement for county related phone, internet, computer and copy expenses.)  The motion was seconded by Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and unanimously carried to approve the 2023 Salary Grade Table, with an increase of 2.75% to the table.

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and unanimously carried to adopt the following Elected Officials salary schedule for the year 2023.  

Elected Officials – Department Heads:

County Attorney $120,556.80

County Recorder $85,009.60

County Sheriff  $98,404.80

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen to adopt the following Non-Elected Department Heads salary schedule for the year 2023.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Non-Elected – Department Heads:

Assessor  Alisa Jacobsen  $76,606.40     

Aud/Treas   Lorene Hanson $104,145.60

Land/Water  Josh Stromlund $93,184.00

MIS Director  Peder Hovland $91,603.20

Public Works Anthony Pirkl $110,115.20     

Social Service  Amy Ballard $93,163.20

EDA Director Ryan Zemek $52,540.80

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel to adopt the following Non-Elected Department Heads salary schedule for the year 2023.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Non-Elected – Department Heads:

Human Resources Savanna Slick $34,132.80          

Veterans Service  Rick Rone  $27,996.80

Salary Adjustment, as agreed upon per Union Contract

Motion- Highway Union

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen to adjust all full time Highway Union employees’ salary by a 2.75% general adjustment and by 1 merit step, if applicable (not maxed), effective January 1, 2023.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Salary Adjustment, as agreed upon per Union Contract

Motion- Solid Waste Union

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund to adjust all full time Solid Waste Union employees’ salary by a 2.75% general adjustment and by 1 merit step, if applicable (not maxed), effective January 1, 2023.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

All County Employees (Full time/Permanent Part Time/Part Time/Seasonal Employees) Salary Adjustment (Excluding Elected and Non-Elected Department Heads) 

Motion- Non-Union

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel to adjust all non-union employees: full time, permanent part time, part time and seasonal (excluding elected and non-elected department heads) salaries by a 2.75% general adjustment and by 1 merit step, if applicable (not maxed), effective January 1, 2023.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Health Insurance/Health Care Savings Plan

Motion (motion made 10/25/2022)

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to set the 2023 county contribution for family health insurance up to $1,370 per month and single health insurance up to $1020 per month.  The Public Employees Insurance Program “Advantage Plan” consists of “High”, “Value” and “HSA” plans.  For the HSA plans only, any excess county contribution will be deposited directly into the employee’s health savings account, up to the IRS caps.  

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to set the 2023 county contribution for family health insurance up to $1,370 per month for all Highway Union and Solid Waste Union employees.  The International Union of Operating Engineers Local No 49 AFL-CIO health insurance consists of family coverage only.

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve that all PERA eligible Lake of the Woods County employees contribute one percent (1%) of their regular pay (no overtime) into their Health Care Savings Plan (HCSP); in addition, Lake of the Woods County, as employer, will contribute one percent (1%) of the employee’s regular pay (no overtime) to the same all PERA eligible Lake of the Woods County employees.

Motion to Pay Year End Bills

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the payment of year end bills on the Auditors list on December 30, 2022.

Resolution for Year End Commitments

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following:

RESOLUTION

YEAR END COMMITMENT OF FUNDS

RESOLUTION NO. 22-12-08

WHEREAS, per Lake of the Woods County Fund Balance Policy, the County Board will annually or as deemed necessary commit specific revenue sources for specified purposed by resolution;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Lake of the Woods County hereby commits the following reserves with the amounts to be determined at a later date: Building; Community Health; Elections; Health/Medical; Housing Rehabilitation; Land & Building Acquisitions; Sheriff’s Posse; Sheriff’s Vending Commission; Technology; Transit; Drainage Maintenance; Economic Development; Prepaid Fiber; SANE; Snowmobile Trails; Future Equipment, and Future Budget Expenditures; Borderland DUI Drug Court; Wetland Banks; ARPA Funds; Opioid Funds; CARSA, USDA Funds; Day Care-Deed.

Transfer of Funds to Ditch Funds

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to authorize a temporary loan to Ditch Fund 22; to mitigate a temporary negative cash balance.

Economic Development Authority

The Board Discussed the appointment of the EDA Board

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to adopt the following resolution:

Re-Appointment of Terms of the economic development authority

Resolution 22-12-09

Whereas Lake of the Woods County Board, pursuant to MN Statute §469.093, Subd.1 has provided a public notice and conducted a public hearing on September 14, 2010 to consider the creation of an Economic Development Authority and adopted the Enabling Resolution creating the same; and

Whereas the County Board of Commissioners of the County of Lake of the Woods adopted the following:

The EDA shall consist of a governing body of nine (9) members, as per the adopted Enabling Resolution, of which: Five (5) Sitting Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Four (4) Members shall be nominated by the following organizations and appointed by the County Board:

Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to recommend appointment

Chamber of Commerce to recommend appointment

Lake of the Woods Tourism to recommend appointment

City of Baudette to recommend appointment

The Board Members and 6-year terms are established as follows:

Board Member Term Expires Representing

Brock Stebakken 12/31/2023 City of Baudette

James “Buck” Nordlof 12/31/2023 County Board District 1

Jeff Bauers 12/31/2024 IDC

Paul Johnson 12/31/2024 Tourism Board

Ed Arnesen 12/31/2025 County Board District 5

Jon Waibel 12/31/2025 County Board District 4

Brittney Peterson 12/31/2026 Chamber of Commerce

Cody Hasbargen 12/31/2027 County Board District 2 

Joe Grund 12/31/2022 County Board District 3

Whereas one board members term expiring on December 31, 2022;

Now, therefore, be it resolved that the County Board of Commissioners of the County of Lake of the Woods hereby appoints the following board member for a 6-year term;

Board Member Term Expires Representing

Joe Grund 12/31/2028 County Board District 3

Wheelers Sanitation

Wheelers Point Sewer Board Members and Terms

Alan Thompson       Three Year Term     21 Thru 01/02/2024

Marshall Monk        Three Year Term     21 Thru 01/02/2024

Brian Ney                Three Year Term     20 Thru 01/02/2023

Paul Johnson           Three Year Term     20 Thru 01/02/2023

Justin Ferguson       Three Year Term     22 Thru 01/02/2025

Motion

Motion was made by Jon Waibel, seconded by Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to appoint Brian Ney and Paul Johnson to the Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District Board for a three year term beginning January 2, 2023 thru January 2, 2026. 

Public Works

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects and meetings in Highway and Solid Waste that included: Bridge projects, Future Bids, and the MPCA meeting/permit application.

Cliffs Review

The board members and Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund reviewed correspondence from Cliffs natural resources about an on-going negotiation of a previous agreement and discussed possible options for moving forward with their requests. It was the consensus of the board for Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund to reach out to Rinke Noonan for legal guidance. 

Land & Water

Set Hearing Date: Wetland Appeal

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to set a hearing date for the wetland appeal for January 10, 2023 at 1:00p.m. in the Lake of the Woods County Government Center Commissioners Room. 

Correspondence

The board reviewed correspondence from Friends Against Abuse, and the National Association of Counties (NACo). 

Old/New Business

The board reviewed old/new business on the agenda. 

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 10:15 a.m. 

Attest: January 10, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Vice-Chair Ed Arnesen