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 25th, 2023

AGENDA

Tuesday, April 25, 2023

TIME TAB

9:00 a.m. #1 Pledge to the Flag

Approval of Agenda

Approve Minutes of April 11, 2023

9:05 a.m. #2 Social Services

  • Claims

9:10 a.m. #3 Auditor/Treasurer

  • Claims
  • Affidavit Lost Warrant
  • Letter of Support
  • Correspondence-Lessard-Sams
  • Snow Trail Grooming Resolutions
  • NWA Edgeriders
  • LOW Drifters

9:20 a.m.           #4 Human Resources

  • Accept Resignation
  • Permission to Advertise, Interview, Hire
  • Job Description Approval
  • Land & Water wages
  • Job Description Approval

9:30 a.m.           #5 Sheriff

  • Chief Deputy Sheriff Wage
  • FY21 OPSG Grant-Signature
  • Declaration of Emergency-Resolution

9:45 a.m. #6 RECESS

Old/New Business

  • Lessard –Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund
  • Land Trade
  • Township Road Inventory
  • Home Health Care Task Force
  • Law Enforcement Center
  • Tourism/Lodging Tax 
  • Centennial
  • Water Level

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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

April 11, 2023

AGENDA

Tuesday, April 11, 2023

TIME TAB

9:00 a.m. #1 Pledge to the Flag

Approval of Agenda

Approve Minutes of March 28, 2023

9:05 a.m. #2 Bid Opening- Land Lease

9:15 a.m. #3 Dan Crompton

9:30 a.m. #4 Social Services

  • Claims
  • CSP Contract-Adult Mental Health 2023-24

9:35 a.m. #5 Auditor/Treasurer

  • Claims
  • Abatement

9:45 a.m. #6 Miles Hogenson

  • Snowmobile Trails

10:00 a.m. #7 Public Hearing

  • Watershed Plan

11:00 a.m. #8 Historical Society

11:15 a.m. #9 Joe Laurin

  • Northerly Park- Bid Request 
  • New Signage for Jim’s Corner 
  • Snowmobile Trail

Old/New Business

Lessard –Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund

  • Land Trade
  • Township Road Inventory
  • Home Health Care Task Force
  • Law Enforcement Center
  • Tourism/Lodging Tax 
  • Centennial
  • Water Level

Microsoft Teams meeting 
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Meeting ID: 279 137 264 092
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Phone Conference ID: 400 277 270# 

April 26, 2022

April 26, 2022

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, April 26, 2022 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

Call To Order

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

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Permission to advertise, interview, and hire Social Worker for Social Services, Williams School Building.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the minutes from April 12,2022.

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 $2,885.54; Commissioners Warrants $4,347.37; Commissioners Warrants $13,824.63.

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 $53,749.85; Road & Bridge $19,609.16; County Development $200.00; Solid Waste $10,079.96.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION WARRANTS

  Approved On 4/26/2022 For Payment 4/29/2022

Vendor Name Amount

CARRIFF Engineered Fabrics Corporation 2,387.43 

Counties Providing Technology 3,972.00

Integris DBA 2,050.95

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 10,078.50

Northwest Tire Inc 10,324.80

Quality Decorating LLC 2,645.00 

Skinner Roofing 2,824.63 

The Brink Center DBA 20,000.00 

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50 

41 Payments less than 2000 23,087.16

Final Total: 83,638.97

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: April 11, 2022 for $397,253.13; April 13, 2022 for $14,832.94; April 20, 2022 for $68,814.82.

County Government Appreciation Day

Resolution

Resolution Adopting

County Government Appreciation Day

Resolution   2022-04- 02

The following Resolution was proposed and moved for adoption by Commissioner Jon Waibel:

A RESOLUTION

Commending the commitment and dedication to public service excellence of county staff and officials by proclaiming April 26 County Government Appreciation Day.

WHEREAS, Minnesota’s 87 counties employ over 36,000 people to provide essential services to create healthy, safe and vibrant communities; and

WHEREAS, the work of county employees is fundamental, whether it’s a newborn well-check by a public health nurse, a passport renewal at a license center, or voter registration and ballot processing; and 

WHEREAS, through their commitment to public service, county employees dedicate their time, skills, and expertise for the benefit of their neighbors, and at times, risk their personal safety coordinating emergency management and managing justice and public safety systems; and 

WHEREAS, the vital work of counties promotes healthy communities, fosters conditions for economic growth, strengthens infrastructure, and improves residents’ quality of life; now, therefore,

BE IT RESOLVED, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners recognizes the commitment and dedication to public service excellence of county staff and officials and proclaim April 26 County Government Appreciation Day.

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

Williams School

The board discussed options for boarding up or covering openings at the school to prevent intruders from getting in and the possibility of the school building being demolished in the near future. It was the consensus to replace and board up the openings at this time.

Public Works

Assistant Engineer Boyd Johnson gave an update on various projects and the flooding in the area. 

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 May 10, 2022 after the regular meeting for solid waste.

Department of Natural Resources

North West Regional Director Theresa Ebbenga and NW and Southern Regional Supervisor Lands and Minerals Cheryl Kelley-Dobie talked with the board about a list of land they received back in 2017 from Lake of the Woods County. They also gave information from statutes in regards to the acquisition of the Carp swamp addition land that has been discussed with Scott Laudenslager in previous meetings. The board would like more information on the list of land when all members are present.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to set a work session with the DNR for June 28, 2022. 

Human Resources

Permission to Advertise, Interview and Hire

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise, interview and hire a social worker in the social services department at Grade 13, Step 1 at 298 points.

Amend Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to add a declaration of emergency resolution, and set department head review date to the agenda.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to set a work session for May 10, 2022 to create department head reviews. 

Recess

A brief recess took place at 10:20 a.m. and reconvened at 10:25 a.m.

Emergency Management

Emergency Management Director Jill Olson asked the board to approve a resolution stating a declaration of emergency to receive funds for the flood clean up and for Chair Buck Nordlof to sign the same.

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION

DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY

Resolution No. 22-04-03

WHEREAS; the April 23, 2022 Severe Weather and Flooding event impacted the population of Lake of the Woods County and its cities, and;

WHEREAS; the April 23, 2022 Severe Weather and Flooding event has caused a significant amount of public property damage, and;

WHEREAS; the Lake of the Woods County Department of Emergency Management requests the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners to declare Lake of the Woods County in a STATE OF EMERGENCY for the April 23, 2022 Severe Weather and Flooding event of 2022.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners declares Lake of the Woods County in a STATE OF EMERGENCY for conditions resulting from the April 23, 2022 Severe Weather and Flooding event of 2022.

Assessors

County Assessor Alisa Jacobsen discussed the recent valuations and explained the county wide increase that occurred this year. Consensus was made by the board to mail the information explaining the reason for the change to everyone and to also publish it in the newspaper. 

Amend Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to add approval to purchase software and hardware to the agenda.

Approval to Purchase

County Assessor Alisa Jacobsen is requesting approval to purchase new software and tablets that would allow the assessors to input information at the property being assessed. The software would cost $3,000 to set up and then a monthly fee of $114.00 to be paid out of the recorders enhancement fund.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of software with CamaMobile and hardware for the assessor’s office.

RECESS

With no further business before the Board, Chair Buck Nordlof called the meeting to recess at 10:55 am.

Attest: May 10, 2022

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair James “Buck” Nordlof

April 26, 2022

AGENDA

Tuesday, April 26, 2022

TIME TAB

9:00 a.m. #1 Pledge to the Flag

9:05 a.m. #2 Approval of Agenda

Approve Minutes of April 12, 2022

9:10 a.m. #3 Social Services

  • Claims

9:15 a.m. #4 County Auditor/Treasurer

  • Claims
  • Resolution-County Government Appreciation Day

9:30 a.m. #5 DNR 

  • Consideration of Potential Divestitures
  • Carp Addition

10:30 a.m. #6 Assessor

  • Update

10:45 a.m. #7 Public Works

  • Highway
  • Update
  • Solid Waste
  • Permission to Advertise, Interview, and hire Solid Waste Manager

11:00 a.m. #8 Recess

Old/New Business

  • Lessard – Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund
  • Land Trade
  • Township Road Inventory
  • Home Health Care Task Force
  • Law Enforcement Center
  • Tourism/Lodging Tax
  • Centennial

Information to attend by web or phone:
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Access Code: 627433446

April 12, 2022

 April 12, 2022

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, April 12, 2022 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

Call To Order

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

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the agenda with the following changes: Move public hearing to 10:00 a.m. as was published in the newspaper and approved at the meeting on March 8th,2022. Add: Legislative update, Resolution for 911/Emergency Response Center.

Union Negotiations

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting at 9:05 a.m. and open the closed session pursuant to MN Statute 13D.03 Union Negotiations. The following were present: Commissioners: Joe Grund, Buck Nordlof, Jon Waibel, Ed Arnesen, County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, County Attorney James Austad, Sheriff Gary Fish, and Human Resources Director Savanna Slick. Joining by phone was: Kristi Hastings.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to close the closed session at 9:15 a.m. and open the regular meeting.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the minutes from March 22,2022.

Human Resources

Human Resources director Savannah Slick asked the board to approve a grade increase for Deputy Jason Goulet. He is currently Grade 11, 26.25 per hour, Step 11 at 262 points.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve Jason Goulet at Grade 12, $27.70 per hour, Step 11 at 282 points.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $127,912.00; Road & Bridge $35,565.92; Solid Waste $40,173.69; EDA $12,214.28.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 4/12/2022 For Payment 4/15/2022

Vendor Name Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 19,674.86 

Compass Minerals America 4,833.63

Happy Tree Productions 8,890.00 

Howard’s Oil Company 5,899.28 

KRIS Engineering Inc 3,478.06

Lake of the Woods Electric LLC 6,529.06

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 14,040.50

LOW Highway Dept 3,710.00 

Mar-Kit Landfill 17,850.00 

Mn Counties Computer Co-Op 18,617.59

Mn State Dept-Correction 23,270.92 

Northern Sports & Machine – Dba 33,938.00 

R & Q Trucking, Inc 4,888.00 

Thortsen Trucking, Inc/Dale 3,992.52 

University Of Mn 9,618.63 

Voyageurs Comtronics, Inc 2,640.00 

Wex Bank 2,051.74 

74 Payments less than 2000 31,943.10

Final Total: 215,865.89

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: March 23,2022 for $16,354.69; March 30,2022 for $2,277.79; April 6, 2022 for $110,274.42.

Legislative Update

Commissioner Ed Arnesen updated the board on various topics that included: NWA funding, Federal Funding for Law Enforcement, and Tourism.

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 $14,233.85; Commissioners Warrants $4,496.42; Commissioners Warrants $16,563.35.

Correspondence

A letter recognizing the Lake of the Woods County Board and staff for a perfect performance in meeting the Department of Human Services (DHS) financial reporting requirements for calendar year 2021 was presented. 

911/Emergency Response Center

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the support of federal funding for the 911 Emergency Response Center and for a resolution to be drafted by County Attorney James Austad and for Chair Buck Nordlof to sign the same. 

Emergency Management

Permission to Pay for Services

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve payment in the amount of $1,600.00 to DSC Communications for programming support services.

FirstNet by AT&T

Emergency Management director Jill Hasbargen Olson, and MIS Tech John Butenhoff came to the board to request approval to change Law Enforcement services from Verizon to FirstNet by AT&T and went over the benefits of this service. They also recommend switching the County to FirstNet by AT&T.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve FirstNet by AT&T as the new provider. 

Public Hearing-Commissioner Districts

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the public hearing to re-establish Commissioner districts.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and moved for adoption:

A Resolution for Adoption of County Commissioner Districts

Resolution 22-04-01

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes Chapter 375 establishes the procedure and requires a process for redistricting County Commissioner districts based on population figures from the Federal Census; and,

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statute section 204B.135, subd. 2 requires that County Commissioner Districts be redistricted within 80 days of when the legislature has been redistricted or at least 15 weeks before the state primary election, whichever comes first; and,

WHEREAS, pursuant to these statutes the 2020 Federal Census population figures shall be used to redistrict the Lake of the Woods County Commissioner Districts by April 26, 2022, and that Commissioner Districts shall be bounded by town, municipal, ward, city district, or precinct lines; and,

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners has considered the possibility or potential for maximizing minority representation on the board of commissioners; and,

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County published a three week notice in the newspaper having the contract for publishing the commissioner’s proceedings for the county for 2022; and,

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County conducted a public meeting on redistricting on April 12, 2022:

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby redistricts the County of Lake of the Woods, following town, municipal, ward, city district, or precinct lines as reestablished in March, 2022, and reestablishes the length of terms as follows:

Commissioner District 1 (4-year term, 2022 election)

Lake of the Woods Commissioner District 1 consists of that portion of Baudette Township that lies East of the Winter Road River and East of County Road 75, south of where it intersects the Winter Road River; and that portion of the City of Baudette that lies West of the Baudette River, excluding the North ½ of the Southwest ¼

of Section 2, and the Northwest ¼ of the North ½ of Section 3, and the North ½ of the Southwest ¼ of Section 3, and the North ½ of the Northeast ¼ of Section 10 in Spooner Township.

Commissioner District 2 (4-year term, 2024 election)

Lake of the Woods Commissioner District 2 consists of Gudrid Township, Rapid River Township, Unorganized Township 157-30, Unorganized Township 158-30, Boone Township, Swiftwater Township, Kiel Township, and that portion of Baudette that lies East of the Baudette River, excluding the North ½ of the Southeast ¼ of Section 2 in Spooner Township.

Commissioner District 3 (4-year term, 2022 election)

Lake of the Woods Commissioner District 3 consists of the City of Williams, Walhalla Township, Potamo Township, Rulien Township, Victory Township, Forest Area, that portion of Spooner Township not already defined in Districts 1 and 2, and that portion of McDougald Township lying South of State Trunk Highway 11.

Commissioner District 4 (4-year term, 2024 election)

Lake of the Woods Commissioner District 4 consists of Wheeler Township, Wabanica Township, that portion of McDougald Township lying North of State Trunk Highway 11, and that portion of Baudette Township lying West of County Road 75, south of where it intersects the Winter Road River and West of the Winter Road River, north of where it intersects County Road 75.

Commissioner District 5 (4-year term, 2024 election)

Lake of the Woods Commissioner District 5 consists of Lakewood Township, Prosper Township, Zippel Township, Myhre Township, Chilgren Township, Northwest Angle and Islands, and that portion of the City of Roosevelt that lies in Lake of the Woods County.

BE IT RESOLVED that the County Auditor-Treasurer is directed to keep the redistricting plan on file by May 3, 2022, to be effective on June 3, 2022, for the 2022 primary and general election and publish in the Northern Light Region.

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the districts are, for illustrative purposes, identified in a map of the county attached hereto and marked Exhibit A which by reference is hereby made a part hereof.

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

Public Works

Approval of SAP 039-649-005

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve project SAP 039-649-005, graveling of NWA, in the amount of $75,000.33 from state aid.

Approval of SAP 039-594-002

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Joe Grund and carried unanimously to grant a conditional approval for the main street north block project SAP 039-594-002 in the amount of $1,398,904.00 and for City Council to approve. 

Approval of Bid for SAP 039-630-001

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the bid for SAP 039-630-001, road to Wabanica, from Davidson Construction in the amount of $190,000.00.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 10:40 a.m. and reconvened at 11:00 a.m.

Land & Water

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #22-06CU Twin Island Sleepers, LLC

Land and Water Director Josh Stromlund met with the board and presented a Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #22-06CU by Denton and Jennifer Rose (Twin Island Sleepers, LLC.): Government Lot Three (3) & Government Lot Four (4) in Section Three (3), Township One-Hundred Sixty-Two (162) North, Range Thirty-Four (34) West- Parcel ID# 17.03.21.000. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401.C and Section 402.1 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance, for the storage of more than five (5) fish houses and commercial winter ice fishing equipment, in a Rural Zoning District (R2).

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following Findings of Fact/Conditional Use Permit #22-06CU for Denton and Jennifer Rose (Twin Island Sleepers, LLC.) to allow storage of fish houses and ice fishing equipment in a Rural Zoning District (R2) with the following Conditions:

  1. Limited to one-hundred (100) Fish House Units- can include Wheel Houses
  2. No Habitation
  3. Must maintain fifty (50) foot natural vegetative buffer beyond the road right of way and on east side of the property.
  4. Conditional Use Permit expires on sale of property

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant: Denton and Jennifer Rose (Twin Island Sleepers, LLC) Date:  April 12, 2022

Location/Legal Description:  Government Lot Three (3) & Government Lot Four (4) in Section Three (3), Township One-hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-four (34) West – Parcel ID# 17.03.21.000

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401.C and Section 402.1 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance, for the storage of more than five (5) fish houses and commercial winter ice fishing equipment, in a 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? Out of view fish house storage

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 (  ) 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 ( X )  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? Remove some vegetative cover only

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? Adjacent to County Road 11

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

Why or why not? Rural Residential (R2) Zoning District

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 (  )  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?

Why or why not? Vegetative to road and to the east; Every access to be gated

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 ( X )  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? Requesting 2 4’x8’ signs

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? No parking on site needed

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. Limited to one-hundred (100) Fish house units – can include wheel houses.
  2. No habitation of fish houses or wheeled houses during storage.
  3. Must maintain fifty (50) foot natural vegetative buffer beyond the road right-of-way and on east side of the property in order to provide screening during summer leaf on conditions.
  4. Units to be stored must not be located within the fifty (50) foot buffer as indicated in item #3 above.
  5. The Conditional Use Permit terminates upon sale or transfer of the property.

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

April 12, 2022 _____________________________________

Date James Nordlof

        Chair, County Board

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

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #22-07CU The Guide Shack, LLC.

Land and Water Director Josh Stromlund met with the board and presented a Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #22-07CU by The Guide Shack, LLC: Part of Government Lot Five (5) being part of Outlot A of Brush Island according to the plat thereof on file in the office of the County Recorder. Parcel ID# 03.51.50.014 in Section Twenty-nine (29), Township One-Hundred Sixty-eight (168) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West. 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 use of the property consisting of a short-term transient rental property, in a Rural Residential Zoning District (R2). Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following Findings of Fact/Conditional Use Permit #22-07CU by The Guide Shack, LLC to allow commercial use of the property consisting of a short-term transient rental property, in a Rural Residential Zoning District (R2) with the following conditions:

  1. Quiet time from 10PM-8AM
  2. Occupancy to be based on septic size to a maximum of 12 people
  3. Rules to be posted: quiet time, capacity limits, stay on property, no tents for additional capacity
  4. Contact information must be provided for complaints, emergencies, and septic
  5. Conditional Use Permit expires on sale of property
  6. Meet all MDH guidelines
  7. Septic system As-built and/or site design to occur by July 31, 2022

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant: The Guide Shack, LLC Date:  April 12, 2022

Location/Legal Description:  Part of Government Lot Five (5) being part of Outlot A of Brush Island according to the plat thereof on file in the office of the County Recorder. – Parcel ID# 03.51.50.014 in Section Twenty-nine (29), Township One-Hundred Sixty-eight (168) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West

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 use of the property consisting of a short-term transient rental property, in a Rural Residential Zoning District (R2). 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? Recreational use

2. Is the project proposal consistent with maintaining the public health, safety, and welfare? YES ( X )  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? No change

  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? Lake access only

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

Why or why not? Residential

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

Why or why not? Vacation rental- water oriented

  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? Occupancy to be limited to septic inspection

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

Why or why not? No change

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

Why or why not? See #10 for septic – new well adequate 

  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 ( X )  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? Building a second dock

  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 (  )  NO ( X )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? Must mark property lines

  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? One sign approximately 2’x3’

  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:

  1. Quiet hours are from 10PM to 8AM.
  2. Occupancy to be based on septic size to a maximum of 12 people.
  3. Rules to be posted: quiet time, capacity limits, stay on property, no tents for additional capacity.
  4. Contact information must be provided for complaints, emergencies, and septic.
  5. Conditional Use Permit expires on sale or transfer of property.
  6. Meet all MDH guidelines.
  7. Septic system As-built and/or site design to occur by July 31, 2022.

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

        April 12, 2022 _____________________________________

Date James Nordlof

        Chair, County Board

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

RECESS

With no further business before the Board, Chair Buck Nordlof called the meeting to recess at 11:25 am.

Attest: April 26, 2022

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair James “Buck” Nordlof

April 12, 2022

AGENDA

Tuesday, April 12, 2022

TIME TAB

9:00 a.m. #1 Pledge to the Flag

Approval of Agenda

9:05 a.m. #2 Union Negotiations – Closed Session

  • Close Regular Meeting/Open Closed Session
    • Union Negotiations(Pursuant MN Statute 13D.03)
  • Close Closed Session/Open Regular Meeting

10:05 a.m. #3 Approve Minutes of March 22, 2022

10:10 a.m. #4 Social Services

  • Claims

10:15 a.m. #5 County Auditor/Treasurer

  • Claims

10:20 a.m. #6 Emergency Management- Jill Olson

  • Approval of Remote Radio Programming Annual Fee
  • FirstNet Sheriff’s Office-County

10:30 a.m. #7 Human Resources

  • Grade Adjustment- Jason Goulet

10:40 a.m. #8 Public Works

  • Highway
  • Approval of Bids SAP 039-630-001
  • Approval of SAP 039-594-002
  • Approval of SAP 039-649-005
  • Drainage Authority
  • Helicopter Spraying
  • Solid Waste
  • April 19th Meeting

11:00 a.m. #9 Land & Water

  • CUP 22-06CU- Twin Island Sleepers, LLC.
  • CUP 22-07CU- The Guide Shack, LLC.

11:30 a.m. #10 Public Hearing

  • Close Regular Meeting/Open Public Hearing
  • Re-Establish Commissioner Districts
  • Close Public Hearing/Open Regular Meeting

12:30 p.m. #11 Recess

Correspondence-Department of Human Services

Old/New Business

  • Lessard – Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund
  • Land Trade
  • Township Road Inventory
  • Home Health Care Task Force
  • Law Enforcement Center
  • Tourism/Lodging Tax
  • Centennial

Information to attend by web or phone:
https://lotw20.my.webex.com/join/peder_h
Dial in: 1-408-418-9388
Access Code: 627433446

April 27th, 2021

Commissioner Proceedings

April 27, 2021

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, April 27, 2021 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room. 

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Public Health, MIS/Telephone Services and Wetlands.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of April 13, 2021.

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 $3,334.41; Commissioners Warrants $1,396.40; Commissioners Warrants $31,584.56.

Contract with Sanford Behavioral Health for CBS Services

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of service agreement with Sanford Health Network North dba Sanford Behavioral Health Center and for Vice-Chair, Buck Nordlof and Social Services Director, Amy Ballard to sign the same.

Contract with Stellher Human Services for Youth Crisis Response

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of service agreement with Stellher Human Services, Inc. and for Social Services Director, Amy Ballard to sign the same.

AUDITOR/TREASURER

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $47,550.35; Road & Bridge $18,423.57; Solid Waste $11,763.37; EDA $850.98. 

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 4/27/2021 For Payment 4/30/2021

Vendor Name       Amount

Avenu Insights & Analytics 6,500.93

BAYCOM, INC. 2,150.00

Counties Providing Technology 3,910.00

DLT Solutions, LLC 6,952.44

LOW Fair Association 25,000.00

Northern Light Region 5,703.57

Remer Iron Works 3,450.00

Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc 2,511.07

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

Ziegler, Inc 2,308.84

29 Payments less than 2000                                         13,832.92

Final Total:       78,588.27

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: April 14, 2021 for $11,010.31, April 21, 2021 for $13,091.29.

Liquor License – ICEHOLE Tavern

Motion
Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve On/Off Sale and Sunday Liquor for Balili Entertainment Group Inc. for ICEHOLE Tavern, as permitted by County Sheriff, Gary Fish and County Attorney, James Austad.

Set Cartway Hearing Date, Peter Jones

It was determined that more information is needed to verify if the petition for a cartway is valid as received.  County Attorney, James Austad will research the petition and the Board will put this item back on the agenda for May 25, 2021.

Land Sale, Date and Terms of Sale

County Attorney, James Austad, requested more time to look into the sale of county owned land, parcel 19-2531-119.  This item will be back on the agenda for May 11, 2021.

Motion
Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following minimum sale bids for the tax forfeited land listings, these listings did not sell during the 2019 tax forfeited land sale:

Parcel Legal DescriptionPre & Post Forf. Spec. AsmtsTotal Delinq. Amount DueEstimated Market Value2019 Minimum Sale Bid2021 Minimum Sale Bid
62-5301-010Lot 1, Blk 1First Addition to Williams$6,285.83$9,451.25$4,700$4,000$1,000
62-5302-030Lot 3 & S33’ Lot 2, Blk 2  First Addition to Williams        $5,398.00$9,005.72$9,000$4,000$1,000

Motion
Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the terms of sale for the tax forfeited land as follows:

TERMS FOR THE PUBLIC SALE OF TAX FORFEITED LAND
IN LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY

PUBLIC SALES: All tax forfeited land is offered at public auction and sold to the highest bidder. The minimum bid acceptable is the basic sale price that is shown on the list of tax forfeited land. The basic sale price is equal to or lesser than the assessed/appraised value and may include additional charges for unpaid special assessments or timber values as appraised by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

PARCELS NOT SOLD AT PUBLIC AUCTION: Parcels not sold at a public sale may be purchased after the public sale by paying the basic sale price of the parcel.  The basic sale price cannot be changed unless the parcel is re-appraised, republished, and again offered at a later public sale.

FEES: The following fees will be collected at the time of sale: State Assurance Surcharge, 3%; State Deed Fee, $25.00; Deed filing fee, $25.00; Deed Recording Fee, $46.00; Well Disclosure Certificate, $50.00 (if applicable); and State Deed Tax, equal to the greater of $1.65 or 0.33% of the basic sale price. 

PAYMENT TERMS: CASH—FULL PAYMENT AT TIME OF SALE.

Payment includes timber value and certified special assessments to county.

SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS: Any special assessments certified to the county, prior to or after forfeiture, are included and must be paid by the purchaser as part of the basic sale price. It is the responsibility of the prospective buyer to contact the appropriate city to determine any special assessments not certified to the county and that may be subject to further assessment thereof. 

CONDITIONS: Sales are subject to the following restrictions on the use of the properties: existing leases, building codes and zoning laws, and easements obtained by any government subdivision or agency thereof for a public purpose. The assessed/appraised value does not represent a basis for future taxes. 

All property is sold “as is” and may not conform to current local building and zoning ordinances. Lake of the Woods County makes no warranty that the land is “buildable”. All sales are final, and no refunds or exchanges are permitted. Lake of the Woods County is not responsible for location or determining property lines or boundaries.  Access to the property is the responsibility of the buyer. 

*Lake of the Woods County is unaware of any known hazardous substances or petroleum products having been placed, stored, or released from or on the real property by any person in violation of any law, nor of any underground storage tanks having been located on the real property at any time.

Lead Warning Statement: Every purchaser of any interest in residential real property on which residential dwelling was built prior to 1978 is notified that such property may present exposure to lead from lead-based paint that may place young children at risk of developing lead poisoning. Lead poisoning in young children may produce permanent neurological damage, including learning disabilities, reduced intelligence quotient, behavioral problems, and impaired memory. Lead poisoning also poses a particular risk to pregnant women. 

*Lake of the Woods County is unaware of any known hazards or risk assessments on or available for applicable sale properties. 

Radon Warning Statement: The MN Dept. of Health strongly recommends that ALL homebuyers have an indoor radon test performed prior to purchase or taking occupancy and recommends having the radon levels mitigated if elevated concentrations are found. Elevated radon concentrations can easily be reduced by a qualified, certified, or licensed, if applicable, radon mitigator. Every buyer of an interest in residential real property is notified that the property may present exposure to dangerous levels of indoor radon gas that may place the occupants at risk of developing radon-induced lung cancer. Radon, a Class A human carcinogen, is the leading cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers and the second leading cause overall. The seller of any interest in residential real property is required to provide the buyer with any information on radon test results of the dwelling.

*Lake of the Woods County is unaware of any radon testing, records, concentration levels, or mitigation systems on or available for applicable sale properties.

TITLE: PROOF OF OWNERSHIP: The buyer will receive a receipt at the time of the sale. The Department of Revenue will issue a State quitclaim deed after full payment is made. A State deed has the characteristics of a patent from the State of Minnesota.

SETTLEMENT IS FINAL: No warranties as to physical condition of the property have been made by Seller, its Employees or Agents; any warranties of physical condition of the property are void. The Seller, its Employees or Agents, have no further responsibility or liability with respect to the condition or management of the property. 

FOR ALL LAND NOT IN A PLATTED SUBDIVISION: There are restrictive covenants required for marginal lands and wetlands including lands in Auditor’s Subdivisions (see Minnesota Statutes Section 103F.535, Subd. 2; and Section 282.018, Subd. 2.)

FORMER OWNERS: Must pay the purchase price or the amount of delinquency, whichever is more, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Section 282.01, Subd. 7; Section 282.012; and Section 282.241.

IN ORDER TO PROTECT YOUR LEGAL INTERESTS, WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU CONSULT WITH YOUR ATTORNEY ON LEGAL MATTERS.

Resolution
The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously.

TAX FORFEITED LAND SALE

RESOLUTION NO. 21-04-01

WHEREAS; the County Board of Commissioners of the County of Lake of the Woods, State of Minnesota, desires to offer for sale certain parcels of land that have forfeited to the State of Minnesota for non-payment of taxes, and

WHEREAS; said parcels of land have been viewed by the County Board of Commissioners and have been classified as non-conservation lands as provided for in Minnesota Statutes 282.01.

WHEREAS; that the basic sale price of each parcel on the List of Tax-Forfeited Land has been reset by the County Board of Commissioners and are on file with the County Auditor/Treasurer;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED; that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby certify that the parcels of tax-forfeited land listed on the List of Tax-Forfeited Land be approved and the authorization for a public sale of this land be granted, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 282.01;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED; that the sale of said Tax-Forfeited Land will be held in the Lake of the Woods County Commissioners Room, at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 8, 2021, by the Lake of the Woods County Auditor/Treasurer; for not less than the basic sale price and that all sales shall be in full payment at the time of the sale.

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY FAIR BOARD
Grandstand Project
The Fair Board is looking to raise approximately $100,000 more for the grandstand project, to purchase and install a canopy over the grandstand. It was the consensus of the County Board to support the grandstand project at a minimum of $50,000.  The County Board will continue to research other funding resources with the help of the Economic Development Authority and would like to have a meeting with the City of Baudette to discuss the project.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

2020 Emergency Management Performance Grant Agreement 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the 2020 Emergency Management Performance Grant at $13,817 and for Vice-Chair Buck Nordlof and Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the 2020 Emergency Management Performance COVID-19 Supplemental Grant at $7,211 and for Vice Chair Buck Nordlof and Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same. 

HUMAN RESOURCES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve to hire for the Environmental Specialist Position at grade 9, step 7, points 232, $21.24 per hour.

PUBLIC WORKS
Highway
Approval of SAP 039-633-003
County Engineer, AJ Pirkl, indicated that this request will be brought to the next Board meeting on May 11, 2021.

Update
County Engineer, AJ Pirkl, provided an update on the ditch petition from Daniel Pieper, the petition has been satisfied.  Pirkl is looking at additional work on Judicial Ditch 24 and will provide a cost estimate at the next Board meeting.

Solid Waste/Landfill
Update
County Engineer, AJ Pirkl, provided an update regarding conversations with the MPCA regarding the use of a clay or synthetic cap for the landfill.  Pirkl feels the clay cap will be a better option, as it can be installed and maintained by county staff.

Pirkl requested to set a public input session for Monday, June 21 at 6 p.m. in the Government Center Court Room to discuss solid waste policy for sleeper ice fishing houses and the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources grant proposal regarding human generated sludge on the lake.

PUBLIC HEALTH
CHI LakeWood Health Public Health Manager, Kay M. Schell and CHI LakeWood Health VP of Operations, Jeffry Stampohar provided an update to the Board regarding COVID-19 cases, vaccines, and testing in Lake of the Woods County.

MIS
Telephone Services

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve Wiktel as the telephone service provider for Lake of the Woods County, at a cost of $1,051 per month.

WETLANDS

Commissioner Jon Waibel requested a work session on wetlands, to discuss ways to be more accommodating regarding wetland information to those interested in building in Lake of the Woods County. No work session date was set at the time.

RECESS
With no further business before the Board, Vice-Chair Buck Nordlof called the meeting to recess at 12:25 p.m.

Attest: May 11, 2021

_________________________________ County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson _________________________________ Chair of the Board, Joe Grund

April 27, 2021

AGENDA

Tuesday, April 27, 2021

TIME TAB

9:00 a.m.

#1
Pledge to the Flag
Approve Agenda
Approve the Minutes of April 13, 2021

9:05 a.m. #2 Social Services 

  • Claims
  • Contract with Sanford Behavioral Health for CBS Services
  • Contract with Stellher Human Services for Youth Crisis Response

9:10 a.m. #3 Auditor/Treasurer

  • Claims
  • Liquor License, IceHole Tavern
  • Set Cartway Hearing Date, Peter Jones
  • Land Sale, Date and Terms of Sale

9:30 a.m. #4 Emergency Management

  • 2020 Emergency Management Performance Grant Agreement

9:35 a.m. #5 Human Resources

  • Environmental Specialist Position

9:40 a.m. #6 Public Works

  • Highway
    • Approval of SAP 039-633-008
  • Solid Waste
    • MPCA Update

9:50 a.m. #7 Lake of the Woods County Fair Board

  • Grandstand Project

Old/New Business

Lessard –Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund
Land Trade
Township Road Inventory
Home Health Care Task Force
Law Enforcement Center

Information to attend by web or phone:
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