Category: Minutes

June 18, 2024

COMMISSIONER PROCEEDINGS

June 18, 2024

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at the Angle Outpost Resort, Angle Inlet, MN.

Call To Order

Chair Cody Hasbargen called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Cody Hasbargen, Joe Grund, Jon Waibel, and Ed Arnesen. Also present was County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson. Absent was: Commissioner Buck Nordlof.

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: Road Culvert, Community Greenhouse.

PUBLIC HEARING- RECONVENE BOARD OF EQUALIZATION

Motion
Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and re-open the 2024 Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting at 10:05 a.m. at the Northwest Angle with the following members present: Commissioners: Joe Grund, Cody Hasbargen, Ed Arnesen, Jon Waibel and County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. Absent was Commissioner Buck Nordlof. It was noted that County Recorder Sue Ney swore in the members of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Appeal and Equalization for 2024 at the meeting on June 11, 2024.

County Board Chair Cody Hasbargen explained the purpose of the Board of Appeal and Equalization. He reminded the public that this meeting was only to hear appeals of the estimated market value (EMV) or classification, not for taxes or prior years’ assessments. He explained that all appeals would be heard before any action would be taken. He also explained that the valuation period the Assessor’s Office use is from sales during October 1, 2022, through September 30, 2023.

Action

After hearing all the appeals, questions, comments and research reviewed, the following actions were taken:

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to accept the Lake of the Woods County Assessor’s recommendations on the following properties and to adjust values per the attached recommendations from the County Assessor: Ronald Borgan (P#23-14-11-000), Mark Judovsky (P#23-56-01-010), J & L Hennum Inc A MN Corp (P#19.71.02.090), J & L Hennum Inc A MN Corp (P#19.71.02.010), K & D Resorts Inc (P#19.52.03.000), K & D Resorts Inc (P#19.52.03.000), Michael D Anderson (P#23.29.33.000), Michael D Anderson (P#23.32.12.000), Michael D Anderson (P#23.32.32.000), Michael D Anderson (P#23.29.33.000).

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to decrease the value on the following property: David D Fadness property owner Wheeler Township, Parcel ID 19.23.12.010, decrease in total value from $20,900.00 to $6,900.00 due to the land value being too high.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to decrease the value on the following property: Adelyne Vertheen Living Trust property owner Wheeler Township, Parcel ID 19.23.12.020, decrease in total value from $20,300.00 to $6,900.00 due to the land value being too high.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to decrease the value on the following property: Quinten K Fadness Family Trust property owner Wheeler Township, Parcel ID 19.23.12.030, decrease in total value from $18,300.00 to $6,900.00 due to the land value being too high.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to decrease the value on the following property: Jon Hams property owner Wheeler Township, Parcel ID 19.23.12.040, decrease in total value from $20,400.00 to $6,900.00 due to the land value being too high.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to decrease the value on the following property: Calvin Fadness property owner Wheeler Township, Parcel ID 19.23.12.050, decrease in total value from $19,900.00 to $6,900.00 due to the land value being too high.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to decrease the value on the following property: Clark Dickerson property owner Wheeler Township, Parcel ID 19.23.12.060, decrease in total value from $20,100.00 to $6,900.00 due to the land value being too high.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to decrease the value on the following property: Duane Fadness property owner Wheeler Township, Parcel ID 19.23.12.070, decrease in total value from $20,000.00 to $6,900.00 due to the land value being too high.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to decrease the value on the following property: Lowell Todd Fadness property owner Wheeler Township, Parcel ID 19.23.12.080, decrease in total value from $19,500.00 to $6,900.00 due to the land value being too high.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to decrease the value on the following property: Quinten K Fadness Family Trust property owner Wheeler Township, Parcel ID 19.23.11.000, decrease in total value from $111,300.00 to $45,000.00 due to the land value being too high.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to decrease the value on the following property: Quinten K Fadness Family Trust property owner Wheeler Township, Parcel ID 19.24.22.000, decrease in total value from $136,700.00 to $102,000.00 due to the land value being too high.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to decrease the value on the following property: Frohreich Family Living Trust property owner Wheeler Township, Parcel ID 19.17.23.010, decrease in total value from $118,100.00 to $104,600.00 due to the land value being too high.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to decrease the value on the following property: Raymond & Amy Friesner property owner Myhre Township, Parcel ID 21.05.32.010, decrease in total value from $43,300.00 to $31,700.00 due to the building value being too high.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the public hearing for Board of Equalization and open the regular meeting.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Commissioner Ed Arnesen gave an update on bonding for the Law Enforcement Center, the Williams school, and safeboats.

Township Discussion

County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson informed the board that there were questions regarding making an unorganized township organized and gave an overview of the steps and responsibilities that would be placed on a township if they chose to do so. There was further discussion around the needs of the Northwest Angle Township.

Public Works

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various Highway/Solid Waste projects. There was also discussion regarding options for a community greenhouse, roads, and culverts.

Joe Laurin

Park Update

Joe Laurin and County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave a presentation on the Northerly Park project and various ideas moving forward.

NWA Edgriders Trail (BLM Lands)

Joe Laurin gave an update on the Northwest Angle Edgeriders trail project and informed the board that they did receive permission from BLM to pass through their land.

Life Flight Discussion

The board discussed Guardian Life Flight and other options that may be available. There was also discussion regarding emergency response options for the Northwest Angle.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to adjourn the meeting at 12:35 p.m. to be followed by the road tour.

Attest: July 9, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair Cody Hasbargen

June 11, 2024

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, June 11, 2024 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Set Work Session-Employee Benefits

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the official minutes of May 28, 2024.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the official minutes of June 4, 2024.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $10,861.83; Commissioners Warrants $2,604.81; Commissioners Warrants $10,166.24.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $130,229.69; Road & Bridge $91,169.24; Solid Waste $44,877.64; EDA $1,296.38.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 6/11/2024 For Payment 6/14/2024

Vendor Name Amount

Angle Inlet Electric, LLC 5,558.80

ByteSpeed, LLC 2,352.00

Clay County Sheriff 2,407.11

Co-Op Services, Inc. 12,751.86

Contech Engineered Solutions LLC 30,140.60

DLT Solutions, LLC 4,574.60

E & A Services LLC 13,000.00

Extreme Duty Ironworks 5,700.00

Farmers Union Oil company 2,187.72

Houston Engineering Inc 9,678.00

Howard’s Oil Company 2,815.54

Integris LLC 3,121.00

Interstate Billing Service Inc 12,192.44

Lady Lakers Volleyball Association 2,250.00

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 72,027.00

Law Offices Of Patrick D. Moren 8,904.93

LOW Highway Dept 4,857.50

Mar-Kit Landfill 15,978.50

MN Counties Intergovernmental Trust 3,157.00

Pomp’s Tire-Thief River Falls 2,834.25

Quadient Finance USA Inc. 3,000.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc 7,656.00

Rust Sales, Inc 6,339.55

SeaChange Print Innovations 2,970.00

Tillery/Dale 2,124.66

Ziegler, Inc 2,286.04

49 Payments less than 2000 26,707.85

Final Total: 267,572.95

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: May 24, 2024 for $896,792.00; May 29, 2024 for $17,139.42; June 3, 2024 for $584,243.92; June 3, 2024 for ($2,843.10); June 4, 2024 for $1,855,422.13.

NWA Meeting Agenda Discussion

The board discussed the upcoming meeting held at the Northwest Angle and possible agenda items.

Recorder

Board of Equalization Oath

County Recorder Sue Ney swore in the members of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Appeal and Equalization for 2024 to be held on June 17, 2024.

Public Works

Local Bridge Replacement Program Grant Agreement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the Local Bridge Replacement Program Grant Agreement and for Commissioner Buck Nordlof and County Engineer Anthony Pirkl to sign the same.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call was moved for adoption:

RESOLUTION

For Agreement to State Transportation Fund

Local Bridge Replacement Program Grant Agreement
Grant Terms and Conditions

SAP 039-598-072

Resolution No. 24-06-01

June 11, 2024

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has applied to the Commissioner of Transportation for a grant from the Minnesota State Transportation Fund related to Bridge No. R0745; 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 $147,995.00 by reason of the lowest responsible bid;

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.

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl joined by phone to give an update that included various highway/solid waste projects and the Northwest Angle.

County Life Flight Discussion

CHI Lakewood Health Center President Jeff Stampohar and Vice President of Patient Care Services Carrie Claybundy came to the board to discuss the availability of Guardian Life Flight, Legislation changes, and give an update regarding the ALS Advanced Life Care Paramedic service and ambulance services.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to add County Life Flight to Old/New business for further discussions.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to add Letter of Support-Volunteer Drivers.

Letter of Support for Mileage Reimbursement- Volunteer Drivers

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to draft a letter of support for no taxation on mileage reimbursement for volunteer drivers.

Set Work Session-Employee Benefits

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to set a work session for employee benefits on July 9^th, 2024 following the regular board meeting.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to add Nursing Home Sale Affidavit to the agenda.

Affidavit for Sale of Nursing Home

County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson informed the board that there is a request for an affidavit to be signed that includes the legal description for the sale of the care center to the hospital in 1990. The original resolution did not include a legal description.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the affidavit for sale of the care center in 1990 including the legal description and for Chair Cody Hasbargen to sign the same.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to add Moratorium for Cannabis Dispensary Applications to the agenda.

Moratorium for Cannabis Dispensary Application

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to place a moratorium on cannabis dispensary applications for licensure until there is further guidance on recently passed legislation.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to adjourn the meeting at 10:10 a.m.

Attest: June 25, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Commissioner James “Buck” Nordlof

May 28, 2024

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

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

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 May 14, 2024.

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 $7,153.16; Commissioners Warrants $1,279.09; Commissioners Warrants $24,699.39.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $18,723.44; Road & Bridge $102,223.30; County Development $575.00; Natl Resc Enhance $3,683.50 Joint Ditch $4,440.00; Solid Waste $13,845.87; EDA $1,392.24.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 5/28/2024 For Payment 5/31/2024

Vendor Name Amount

E & A Services LLC 66,963.00

HDR Engineering Inc 4,440.00

Integris LLC 3,203.11

LOW Highway Dept 2,907.61

Marco Technologies LLC 3,072.00

North East Technical Service,Inc 3,219.50

Rinke-Noonan 3,883.50

Titan Machinery – Roseau 29,066.30

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

36 Payments less than 2000 21,859.83

Final Total: 144,883.35

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: May 15, 2024 for $72,839.01; May 21, 2024 for $5,379.43.

Land Purchase- Scott Pahlen

Scott Pahlen informed the board that Pheasants Forever is interested in purchasing two pieces of his land for a total of 163.93 acres. It was the consensus of the board to support the sale of parcel numbers: 38.1931.000 & 38.1933.000 totaling 163.93 acres of Mr. Pahlen’s land to Pheasants Forever.

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave a brief update on various upcoming highway projects and the PLSS restoration project.

Human Resources

Tech I to Tech II Increase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve Tech I Dylan Hancharyk to increase to Tech II at Grade 12, Step 3, $25.15 per hour at 274 points effective next full pay period.

Personnel Committee Recommendations

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following personnel committee recommendations effective next full pay period:

Social Services

Jo Aery- Grade 9, Step 12, $25.36 per hour, 222 points

Carla Bailey-Grade 11, Step 6, $25.30 per hour, 262 points

Cassie Brune-Grade 13, Step 8, $29.23 per hour, 287 points

Angie Eason-Grade 17, Step 10, $37.66 per hour, 377 points

Linda Hartnell-Grade 13, Step 6, $28.14 per hour, 293 points

Christine Hultman- Grade 15, Step 9, $33.16 per hour, 335 points

Katy Johnson-Grade 15, Step 2, $28.88 per hour, 332 points

Heather Larson- Grade 16, Step 5, $32.42 per hour, 363 points

Leah Larson-Grade 15, Step 12, $35.00 per hour, 332 points

Joanna Onstad- Grade 15, Step 6, $31.33 per hour, 332 points

Hannah Palm-Grade 11, Step 8, $26.27 per hour, 262 points

Whitney Nelson-Grade 15, Step 1, $28.27per hour, 332 points

Sheri Stebakken- Grade 10, Step 8, $24.93 per hour, 240 points

Aspen Thompson-Grade 10, Step 3, $22.65 per hour, 241 points

Highway

Jane Larson- Grade 15, Step 6, $31.33 per hour, 335 points

Christie Pierce- Grade 11, Step 6, $25.30 per hour, 256 points

Brock Stebakken- Grade 15, Step 10, $33.78 per hour, 329 points

Human Resources

Savanna Slick- Grade 17, Step 8, $36.28 per hour, 390 points.

Land & Water

LOTW County Zoning Ordinance Amendments

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund reviewed amendments made to the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the amended Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance as presented.

Update

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund gave an update regarding a variance request for the Northwest Angle.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 9:50 a.m.

Attest: June 11, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

Deputy Auditor/Treasurer, Anna Sanchez Vice-Chair Jon Waibel

May 14, 2024

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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: State Boat & Water Grant, and County Surveyor Grant Update.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of April 23, 2024.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $17,896.13; Commissioners Warrants $3,237.63; Commissioners Warrants $26,972.73.

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 $65,041.38; Road & Bridge $67,557.78; SS $1.300.00; Joint Ditch $10,551.25; Solid Waste $49,102.48.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 5/14/2024 For Payment 5/17/2024

Vendor Name Amount

American Solutions For Business 3,089.51

Baudette/City Of 6,000.00

Co-Op Services, Inc. 9,590.65

Counties Providing Technology 4,452.00

Country Inn & Suites – Shoreview 2,860.32

Farmers Union Oil Co. 2,339.97

Farmers Union Oil company 2,194.68

Gamache/Micheal D 2,800.00

HDR Engineering Inc 6,382.65

Houston Engineering Inc 9,678.00

Law Offices Of Patrick D. Moren 9,226.53

Liberty Tire Recycling, LLC 10,783.60

LOW County Auditor-Treasurer 19,447.62

LOW High School Trap Team 2,628.00

LOW Highway Dept 14,755.00

Mar-Kit Landfill 13,157.50

Northern Light Region 2,786.57

Northern Sports & Machine – Dba 9,114.99

Pomp’s Tire-Thief River Falls 3,145.44

Powerplan 3,636.55

R & Q Trucking, Inc 5,568.00

Uline 5,247.66

Ziegler, Inc 2,824.07

69 Payments less than 2000 41,843.58

Final Total: 193,552.89

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: April 24, 2024 for $55,024.58; May 1, 2024 for $166,672.47; May 2, 2024 for $255,124.37; May 5, 2024 for 1,262.00; May 8, 2024 for $10,218.49.

Cigarette & Liquor License Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the cigarette and liquor license application from Flag Island Resort.

NWA Edge Riders Trails Assistance

Resolution

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

Sponsorship of Snowmobile Trails Assistance Program

Resolution No. 24-05-01

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.

LOTW Drifters Trails Assistance

Resolution

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

Sponsorship of Snowmobile Trails Assistance Program

Resolution No. 24-05-02

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

NWA Edge Riders Update

Joe Laurin gave an update on snowmobile trail mapping and projects.

Emergency Management

Firearm Storage Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the firearm storage grant in the amount of $15,628.42 and for Chair Cody Hasbargen to sign the same.

MNWALK & Emergency Operations Plan

Emergency Management Director Jill Hasbargen-Olson discussed the Emergency Operations Plan for 2024 and changes made for the upcoming year that included: Outdoor Warning Sirens, Election Emergency Plan, Training & Exercises, DECON training, and Hazard Mitigation Plan.

Motion

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

Sheriff

State Boat & Water Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the State Boat & Water Grant in the amount of $9,226.00 and for Chair Cody Hasbargen to sign the same.

Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC)

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION APPROVING STATE OF MINNESOTA JOINT POWERS AGREEMENTS WITH THE COUNTY OF LAKE OF THE WOODS ON BEHALF OF ITS SHERIFF REGARDING THE MINNESOTA INTERNET CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN TASK FORCE (ICAC)

Resolution NO. 24-05-03

WHEREAS, the County of Lake of the Woods on behalf of its Sheriff desires to enter into Joint Powers Agreements with the State of Minnesota, Department of Public Safety, Bureau of Criminal Apprehension to utilize applicable state and federal laws to investigate and prosecute crimes committed against children and the criminal exploitation on children that is committed and/or facilitated by or through the use of computers.

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

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 on behalf of its Sheriff are hereby approved. Copies of the Joint Powers Agreements are attached to this Resolution and made a part of it.
That the County Sheriff, Gary Fish, or his or her 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.
That Cody Hasbargen, the Chair of the County of Lake of the Woods, and Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson, the County Board Clerk, are authorized to sign the State of Minnesota Joint Powers Agreements.

Lake of the Woods Drifters Update

Ron Olson gave an update on snowmobile trails and projects.

Public Works

Jail Generator and Gas Quotes Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the quotes from International Falls Generac Generator quote for $18,178.00 and Air Systems gas quote for $1,756.00.

Bid Approval-Chip Seal

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the chip seal quote from Asphalt Preservation Company in the amount of $219,695.54.

Bid Approval-Gravel

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the gravel bid from LaValla Sand & Gravel in the amount of $567,000 with a five year contract.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to add City of Baudette Contract to the agenda.

City of Baudette Contract Payments

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the maintenance contract with the City of Baudette for two payments of $6,000.00 for a total amount of $12,000.00 for one year and for Chair Cody Hasbargen to sign the same.

UPDATES

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl Gave an update on various Highway and Solid Waste projects.

County Engineer Re-Appointment

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to re-appoint Anthony (AJ) Pirkl as County Engineer for a four-year term effective June 1, 2024.

County Surveyor-Grant Update

County Surveyor Chad Conner informed the board that the Public Land Survey Systems Restoration (PLSS) grant application in the amount of $265,000.00 was approved and the project should be completed over the next two years.

Land & Water

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #24-01CU BY Loren & Dawn Horner

A parcel of land lying in the Northeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter (NE1/4NE1/4) of Section Twelve (12), Township One Hundred Sixty-one (161) North of Range Thirty-two (32) West and Government Lot One (1), Section Seven (7) Township One Hundred Sixty-one (161) North of Range Thirty-one (31) West- Parcel ID#’s 24.07.22.010 and 23.12.11.010. 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) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of the Rainy River for the purpose of a rock rip rap project to stabilize the shoreline.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following Findings of Fact/CUP #24-01CU By Loren & Dawn Horner to move more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of the Rainy River for the purpose of a rock rip rap project to stabilize the shoreline with the following conditions:

DNR permit needed if it becomes required.

Consideration of Fee Schedule

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund discussed minor increases to the fee schedule that has not been adjusted since 2020. The increases would affect regular land use permits and special use permits to cover additional costs associated with conducting public hearings.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the proposed changes to the fee schedule.

Human Resources

Personnel Committee Recommendations

Job Descriptions

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the updated job descriptions for Maintenance/Shop Supervisor, Assistant Engineer, and Deputy Recorder.

Wage Increases

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following wage increases:

Maintenance/Shop Supervisor- Grade 17, Step 10, $37.66 per hour at 382 points effective next full pay period.

Assistant Engineer- Grade 18, Step 14, $42.68 per hour at 410 points effective next full pay period.

Deputy Recorder- Grade 13, Step 12, $31.42 per hour at 291 points retroactive to April 10, 2024.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to set a work session for wage discussions on May 21, 2024 at 9:00a.m. in the Lake of the Woods County Government Center Commissioners Room.

HIPPA Policy

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the HIPPA Policy as presented by Human Resources Director Savanna Slick.

Committee Appointments

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to appoint Amy Ballard as Privacy Officer for Social Services and Peder Hovland as Security Officer for the County.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 10:25a.m.

Attest: May 28, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair Cody Hasbargen

April 23, 2024

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Motion to Approve Law Enforcement Building Resolution, John Wynne Grant Discussion, and Legislative Updates. Remove: Generator Purchase, and Appointment of County Engineer.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of April 9, 2024.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $13,248.65; Commissioners Warrants $2,168.92; Commissioners Warrants $1,722.47.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $76,369.65; Road & Bridge $26,835.28; County Development $200.00; Joint Ditch $14,000.00; Solid Waste $10,497.40; EDA $1,182.32.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 4/23/2024 For Payment 4/26/2024

Vendor Name Amount

ByteSpeed, LLC 21,258.00

Clay County Sheriff 2,503.68

Contech Engineered Solutions LLC 30,000.00

Counties Providing Technology 4,327.00

Cps Technology Solutions 5,170.50

Ferrellgas 3,514.90

Integris LLC 7,087.91

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 13,300.00

LOW Marine, Inc 3,929.95

Minnesota Ui 3,643.20

Northern Light Region 4,640.00

Pirkl Lumber & Carpet 2,271.98

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

42 Payments less than 2000 21,169.03

Final Total: 129,084.65

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: April 5, 2024 for $248,748.34; April 10, 2024 for $10,544.54; April 17, 2024 for $10,454.73.

Cigarette License Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the cigarette license application from Jerry’s Bar & Restaurant.

Resolution Supporting a Bonding Bill for Construction of a Law Enforcement Center

Resolution

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

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY, MINNESOTA

SUPPORTING A BONDING BILL FOR

CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW COUNTY LAW ENFORCEMENT CENTER

RESOLUTION 2024-04-04

Supporting the County’s request for bonding money to provide a new law enforcement center.

WHEREAS, As of July 1, 2021, the Minnesota Department of Corrections (DOC) has found the existing Lake of the Woods County Jail to be structurally deficient and in need of major renovations or replacement, and has required the County to transfer inmates to an alternative facility until alternative facilities have been built; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to DOC mandates, inmates can be held at the existing county jail for a maximum time period of 72 hours (which can be extended only if the Court has authorized that specific inmate can have Huber and/or STS privileges); and

WHEREAS, due to the limitations imposed by DOC, the County has been required to house inmates in other jail facilities in neighboring counties, resulting in transportation time and expenses, and the cost of housing the inmates outside of the Lake of the Woods County jail; and

WHEREAS, the County Board has considered the practicality and future costs of all alternatives; factoring in the County’s considerable distances to alternative facilities and the uncertain availability and cost of such arrangements; and has determined that building a new Law Enforcement Center is the most viable response to the Department of Corrections’ mandate; and

WHEREAS, the aforementioned project is the most fiscally responsible option and will result in near-term and long-term economic and public safety benefits to County residents and businesses, as well as non-resident visitors and businesses, and

WHEREAS, the construction of a new Law Enforcement Center will require funding from a state bonding bill; and

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY BOARD AS FOLLOWS:

The County Board urges all lawmakers to work to pass a bonding bill in the current legislative session, which includes funding appropriations for the Lake of the Woods County Law Enforcement project.

Human Resources

Set Date for Department Head Reviews

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to set the date for a department head reviews session for May 14, 2024 following the regular board meeting.

Public Works

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on the Sheriff’s Office generator.

Approval of 4-Wheeler Purchase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of a 4-wheeler from Northern Sports (Randy Orton) in the amount of $9,200.00.

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various Highway projects.

Department of Corrections- Janelle Cheney

Lake of the Woods Comprehensive Plan

District Supervisor Janelle Cheney introduced herself to the board and reviewed the Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Plan.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Plan as presented by Department of Corrections District Supervisor Janelle Cheney.

John Wynne-Housing Rehabilitation Grant

John Wynne and Diane Hayes came to the board seeking support for a grant application that would assist in the rehabilitation of substandard housing outside of city limits. It was the consensus of the board to support the application process for the housing rehabilitation grant.

Correspondence

The board reviewed correspondence.

Legislative Update

Commissioner Jon Waibel gave an update from his recent trip to the capitol to meet with legislators regarding the law enforcement building and Williams school building.

Closed Session

Resolution

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

Resolution Closing Board Meeting

Resolution No. 2024-04-05

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Open Meeting Law, Minn. Stat. § 13D.03, subd. 1 states that:

“The governing body of a public employer may by a majority vote in a public meeting decide to hold a closed meeting to consider strategy for labor negotiations, including negotiation strategies or developments or discussions and review of labor negotiation proposals, conducted pursuant to sections 179A.01 to 179A.25.”

WHEREAS, a labor negotiation development has arisen regarding a labor dispute between Lake of the Woods County (public employer) and Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc., Local Union No. 510; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners shall hold a closed meeting on April 23, 2024 at 10:30 AM to consider the terms of settlement proposal with the union. The closed session shall be held at the Lake of the Woods County Courthouse, Commissioners’ Room, 206 8th Ave. SE, Suite 234, Baudette Minnesota 56623; and

BE IT RESOLVED by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners as follows:

The Board of Commissioners hereby closes this meeting pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.03, subd. 1 to consider strategy for labor negotiations including negotiation strategies or developments or discussion and review of Labor negotiation proposals, conducted pursuant to sections 179A.01 to 179A.25.

This closed session shall be tape recorded at the expense of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners and said recording shall be preserved for two years after the contract is signed and shall be made available to the public after all labor contracts are signed by the governing body for the current budget period.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to close the closed session and open the regular meeting.

Approval of Memorandum of Understanding

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Memorandum of Understanding for the Local Union No. 510.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 10:45a.m. and reconvened at 2:00p.m.

Closed Session

Resolution

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

Resolution Closing Board Meeting

Resolution No. 2024-04-06

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Open Meeting Law, Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(b) states that “meetings may be closed if the closure is expressly authorized by statute or permitted by the attorney-client privilege”; and

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County entered into a Settlement Agreement (“Agreement”) in the Matter of Hibbing Taconite Mine and Stockpile Progression and Williams Creek Project Specific Wetland Mitigation, which Agreement was dated October 6, 2015 (OAH Docket No. 11-2004-31655); and

WHEREAS, the Agreement resolved issues prior to litigation; and

WHEREAS, parties to the Agreement, are seeking to modify certain terms and conditions of the Agreement; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board seeks to meet with its attorney, to discuss the modification of the agreement; and

WHEREAS, it would be detrimental to the interests of the Lake of the Woods County Board to hold a public discussion with its attorney regarding the strengths and weaknesses of its legal position(s), strategy, and potential settlement position regarding the requested modifications, where an opposing party or opposing attorney could listen to or be made aware of Lake of the Woods County’s positions; and

WHEREAS, there is an absolute need for the Lake of the Woods County Board to obtain confidential legal advice regarding the potential settlement modifications in order to maintain the attorney-client privilege.

BE IT RESOLVED by the Lake of the Woods County Board as follows:

The Lake of the Woods County Board hereby closes this meeting based upon the attorney-client privilege pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(b); and

The specific subjects to be discussed, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.01, subd. 3, are the legal strategy in the Office of Administrative Hearings matter as set forth in the recital above and any settlement proposals regarding the modifications to the Agreement requested by Cliffs, which may be made by or responded to by the Lake of the Woods County Board.

Motion

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

Consensus

It was the consensus of the board for John Kolb to have a discussion with the DNR regarding a possible amendment to the Williams Creek Agreement.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 3:10p.m.

Attest: May 14, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Vice-Chair Jon Waibel

April 9th, 2024

April 9, 2024

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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, Ed Arnesen, Jon Waibel, Buck Nordlof, 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: Legislative Updates

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 26, 2024.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $61,005.24; Commissioners Warrants $884.66; Commissioners Warrants $13,068.68.

Resolution of Support

Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility in Clay County

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Resolution in support of a psychiatric residential

treatment facility in clay county

Resolution No. 2024-04-01

WHEREAS, throughout Minnesota there is inadequate capacity in the continuum of care to support children with high acuity, complex and/or co-occurring conditions that include violent or sexually inappropriate behavior and/or physical health challenges; and

WHEREAS, Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities (PRTF) are a part of this continuum for children and youth under age 21 with complex mental health conditions and aggression; and

WHEREAS, currently there are four PRTF facilities operational in Minnesota with a total capacity of 166 beds and an additional PRTF set to open soon; and

WHEREAS, there is a need for additional PRTF beds in the State of Minnesota to meet the needs of children with serious and complex mental health needs; and

WHEREAS, the location of PRTF beds must be spread across the state to ensure equal access and proximity to a child’s home community, family, and service providers; and

WHEREAS, Clay County is committed to establishing a PRTF and will partner with an eligible provider in the delivery of PRTF services; and

WHEREAS, Clay County is seeking Minnesota bond funds to aid in land acquisition and building a PRTF;

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners via this Resolution, supports Clay County to request Minnesota bond funds for infrastructure in the development of a Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility in Clay County.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $52,409.85; Road & Bridge $139,751.71; County Development $200.00; Joint Ditch $385.50; Solid Waste $32,953.62.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 4/09/2024 For Payment 4/12/2024

Vendor Name Amount

Angle Inlet Electric, LLC 4,166.00

Bert’s Truck Equipment Of Moorhead Inc 26,910.00

Braun Intertec Corporation 22,935.95

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 12,250.76

Farmers Union Oil company 2,275.93

Hildi Inc 4,500.00

Howard’s Oil Company 3,776.35

Interstate Billing Service Inc 4,173.40

KC TECH LLC 2,925.00

Lake of the Woods Electric LLC 2,539.44

Law Offices Of Patrick D. Moren 9,508.53

Mar-Kit Landfill 10,912.75

Mesabi Bituminous, Inc. 3,075.00

Nutrien Ag Solutions Inc 54,530.32

Pb Distributing Inc 9,648.35

Polk County Solid Waste 2,008.00

Powerplan 2,728.59

R & Q Trucking, Inc 4,888.00

University Of Mn 15,121.50

45 Payments less than 2000 26,826.81

Final Total: 225,700.68

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: March 27, 2024 for $16,326.21; April 3, 2024 for $124,725.66.

Sheriff

Intercom System Quote-Office & Jail

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the quote from Wiktel for the office & Jail intercom system in the amount of $21,431.00 to be paid for out of the building fund.

Minnesota Department of Health Grant Amendment

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the amended grant agreement from Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).

Grant Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the grant from Minnesota Department of Health in the amount of $150,000 and for Chair Cody Hasbargen, and Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various highway projects.

Approval of SAP 039-635-012

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the bid from Mark Sand & Gravel in the amount of $3,203,423.59 for SAP 039-635-012 CSAH 35 project.

Permission to Advertise, Interview & Hire Summer Help

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise, interview, & hire for seasonal summer help.

Land & Water

Hooper Creek Investments, LLC-Consideration of an Extension to Submit Final Plat

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously with Commissioner Jon Waibel abstaining to approve the request for an extension to submit the final plat from Hooper Creek Investments, LLC by December 1, 2024.

North Star Electric

Tim Pelach and Robyn Sonstegard came to the board to request a letter and a resolution in support of a grant for new equipment that will allow better monitoring from the office. The project will take 3-5 years to complete

Letter of Support

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to draft a letter of support for the Meeker Cooperative Light & Power Association’s Midwest Assess, Harden, and Intelligence Project Grant.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

GOOD NEIGHBOR AGREEMENT BETWEEN

NORTH STAR ELECTRIC AND LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY

Resolution No. 2024-04-02

WHEREAS, This Agreement is entered into this 9th day of April 2024 between Lake of the Woods County (“Community Organization”) and North Star Electric Cooperative, Inc. (“Utility”), collectively herein referred to as the “Parties.”

WHEREAS, The Utility is planning a resiliency electric grid project subjected to Department of Energy funding that will increase the resiliency and reliability of the delivery of power to the region; and

WHEREAS, the Utility is requesting community support throughout the design, construction, and completion stages of the resiliency electric grid project.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, in consideration of the mutual promise contained herein, the Parties agree as follows:

The Utility will provide regular project updates to the Community Organization at the design, construction, and completion stages.
The Utility and the Community Organization will communicate together and provide feedback regarding the proposed project.

The Utility will ensure a prompt response to any concerns or complaints from the local public, including businesses, residences, non-profit organizations, or the Community Organization.
The Utility employs a workforce that encourages diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the workplace.
This Agreement will terminate effective immediately if the Utility does not receive funding from the Department of Energy for the project or on December 31, 2029, whichever occurs first.

RECESS

A brief recess took place at 9:30a.m. with a work session to follow. The board reconvened at 10:15 a.m.

Closed Session

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

RESOLUTION CLOSING BOARD MEETING

Resolution NO. 2024-04-03

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Open Meeting Law, Minn. Stat. § 13D.03, subd. 1 states that:

WHEREAS, a labor negotiation development has arisen regarding a labor dispute between Lake of the Woods County (public employer) and Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc., Local Union No. 510; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners shall hold a closed meeting on April 9^th, 2024 at 10:45 AM to consider strategy for labor negotiation developments. The closed session shall be held at the Lake of the Woods County Courthouse, Commissioners’ Room, 206 8th Ave. SE, Suite 234, Baudette Minnesota 56623; and

BE IT RESOLVED by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners as follows:

The Board of Commissioners hereby closes this meeting pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.03, subd. 1 to consider strategy for labor negotiations including negotiation strategies or developments or discussion and review of Labor negotiation proposals, conducted pursuant to sections 179A.01 to 179A.25.

This closed session shall be tape recorded at the expense of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners and said recording shall be preserved for two years after the contract is signed and shall be made available to the public after all labor contracts are signed by the governing body for the current budget period.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the closed session and open the regular meeting at 10:40a.m.

Myles Hogenson

Myles Hogenson gave an update on various ATV trail projects.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set a work session for maintenance on May 14, 2024 following the regular board meeting.

Legislative Update

Commissioner Ed Arnesen gave a legislative update about bonding for a new law enforcement building.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 11:00 a.m.

Attest: April 23, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair Cody Hasbargen

March 26, 2024

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 26, 2024

in the ITV room at the Lake of the Woods School.

High School Social Studies teacher, Mr. Sam Longseth

Mr. Sam Longseth thanked the Commissioners for meeting at the School so his students could attend and participate in the meeting. Also present was retired Social Studies teacher Don Krause.

Call To Order

Chair Cody Hasbargen called the meeting to order at 8:15 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Buck Nordlof, Cody Hasbargen, Joe Grund, Jon Waibel, and Ed Arnesen. Also present was County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson. The Board introduced themselves to the students and which districts they represented.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

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

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the minutes of March 12, 2024.

Lake of the Woods Treatment Court

Judge Donna Dixon and Maria Pahlen presented on the process and the purpose of the Lake of the Woods Treatment Court. Alex Stodgell spoke to the board about how the treatment courts can help lead people living with substance use out of the justice system and into lives of recovery and stability and his own experiences with this program.

National Leadership Forum

Sandy Peterson, Doris Knutson and four Lake of the Woods Students, gave a presentation about their recent trip to Washington D.C. for the Community Anti-drug Coalition of America (CADCA) conference. The students discussed the benefits of meeting new people and learning how to have hard discussions about drugs and alcohol. Sandy Peterson discussed the local statistics of drug and alcohol use amongst teens in Lake of the Woods County and how other students could participate in the National Leadership Forum.

Public Works

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl introduced himself to the class and gave an overview of his position at the County.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to add gravel source bids to the agenda.

Permission to bid FEMA Plans

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on FEMA funds in the amount of $235,000 for various highway projects and requested permission to bid for those plans.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to bid for FEMA projects.

Permission to bid Gravel Source

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to bid for a gravel source.

DNR Fisheries (Matt Skoog)

DNR Fisheries Supervisor Matt Skoog gave an update about the sturgeon and walleye population and discussed the process for repopulating by using hatcheries and stocking the red river.

Social Services

Jodi Ferrier introduced herself and gave an overview of the Social Services department.

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $1,791.10; Commissioners Warrants $1,203.99; Commissioners Warrants $18,685.77.

Auditor/Treasurer

County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson introduced herself to the students and gave an overview of the Auditor/Treasurer department and services.

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $34,383.34; Road & Bridge $22,650.44; Solid Waste $6,718.50; EDA $1,488.76.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 3/26/2024 For Payment 3/29/2024

Vendor Name Amount

Cdw Government, Inc 6,630.87

Clay County Sheriff 2,320.00

Integris LLC 2,188.23

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 10,260.00

Quadient Finance USA Inc. 6,000.00

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

William Alexander Johnson 19,231.21

24 Payments less than 2000 12,342.23

Final Total: 65,241.04

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: March 13, 2024 for $57,723.00; March 20, 2024 for $12,654.54.

DNR Wildlife (Scott Laudenslager)

DNR Wildlife Manager Scott Laudenslager gave an update on various maintenance projects, Deer and Bear permits/harvest areas, and discussed upcoming summer projects.

Human Resources

Job Description Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the job description for the Facilities Supervisor and Safety Operator position.

Facilities Supervisor and Safety Operator Grade Increase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the grade increase for Facilities Supervisor & Safety Operator Shane Shaw to Grade 11, Step 12 at $28.20 per hour at 251 points effective next full pay period.

Approval of Step Increase for Custodian II

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve a step increase for Custodian II Dylan Eason from Grade 6 Step 6 to Grade 6 Step 9 at 20.61 per hour effective next full pay period.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to set a work session for maintenance for April 9, 2024 following the regular board meeting.

County Surveyor-PLSS Restoration Project

County Surveyor Chad Conner came to the board to request a resolution for the Public Land Survey System Restoration Project.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Resolution to submit a proposal to the legislative-citizen commission on minnesota resources for public land survey system restorations

Resolution No. 2024-03-01

WHEREAS, The Lake of the Woods County Land Surveyor’s Office has the opportunity to request funding from the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) for the project titled “LOTW PLSS Restoration” up to the amount of $265,000, in Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF); and

WHEREAS, The Lake of the Woods County Auditor’s Office has reviewed the funding request and the “Duties of a Fiscal Agent” document provided by the State and is fully aware of the work that will occur if funded, the project timeline, and the project budget.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Lake of the Woods County Board authorizes the Lake of the Woods County Land Surveyor’s Office to submit a proposal for the project titled “LOTW PLSS Restoration” up to the amount of $265,000 for grant funding from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) funding from the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR).

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Lake of the Woods County Board authorizes the Lake of the Woods County Auditor’s Office to act as a fiscal agent if funding is awarded for the 2024 project titled “LOTW PLSS Restoration”, and will comply with all terms as stated in the fiscal agent agreement.

Toward Zero Death

TZD Coordinator Sue Johnson, State Aid Engineer Brian Ketring, Assistant District Engineer William Pirkl, met with the board and presented a power point and information on the Towards Zero Death Task Force and the importance of safe driving and wearing seatbelts. William Pirkl gave an update on various highway projects and the installation of roundabouts in the area.

Recess

A brief recess took place from 11:50a.m. and reconvened at 1:20p.m.

Pine to Prairie Task Force

Deputy Sheriff/Investigator Craig Severs provided a presentation on the Pine to Prairie Drug Task Force, which works with nine different counties, local law enforcement, conservation officers, and others.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 2:00p.m. and reconvened at the Lake of the Woods County Government Center Commissioners Room at 2:30p.m.

Closed Session

Resolution

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

Resolution Closing Board Meeting

Resolution No. 2024-03-02

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County was served on March 20, 2024 with a United States District Court Summons and Complaint dated March 14, 2024, signed by Gregory M. Erickson, attorney for Plaintiffs Jennifer Audette and Robert Audette, alleging that Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners violated, inter alia, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and, requesting, inter alia, that the court require the County to remedy the alleged ADA violation and award damages; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board seeks to meet with its attorney, to discuss the pending lawsuit; and

WHEREAS, it would be detrimental to the interests of the Lake of the Woods County Board to hold a public discussion with its attorney regarding the strengths and weaknesses of its legal position(s), strategy, and potential settlement position regarding the pending lawsuit where an opposing party or opposing attorney could listen to or be made aware of Lake of the Woods County’s positions; and

BE IT RESOLVED by the Lake of the Woods County Board as follows:

The Lake of the Woods County Board hereby closes this meeting based upon the attorney-client privilege pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(b); and

The specific subjects to be discussed, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.01, subd. 3, are the legal strategy regarding the pending United States District Court action.

Adopted by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota this 26^th day of March, 2024.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the closed session and open the regular meeting at 2:50p.m.

Correspondence

The board reviewed correspondence from Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof to add Cliffs Discussion to the agenda.

Cliffs Discussion

The board and Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund discussed the Cliff’s agreement.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to have Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund, and Commissioners: Jon Waibel, and Ed Arnesen have a meeting with Cliffs to review options.

Adjourn

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 3:35p.m.

Attest: April 9, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair Cody Hasbargen

March 12, 2024

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 12, 2024 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Legislative Updates

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 February 27, 2024.

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 $32,337.05; Commissioners Warrants $2,055.79; Commissioners Warrants $25,627.43.

Sanford Crisis Contract Addendum

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the Sanford Crisis Contract Addendum to amend the dates of the original contract.

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 $174,611.12; Road & Bridge $80,671.35; Joint Ditch $11,432.50; Solid Waste $41,347.44; EDA $3,640.00; Taxes & Penalties ($390.00).

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 3/12/2024 For Payment 3/15/2024

Vendor Name Amount

Auto Value Baudette 2,241.86

ByteSpeed, LLC 2,468.00

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 11,816.57

Counties Providing Technology 4,327.00

Esri 28,400.00

Law Offices Of Patrick D. Moren 9,226.53

LOW Fair Association 34,610.00

LOW Highway Dept 14,403.75

LOW School District–390 3,472.00

Mar-Kit Landfill 11,397.50

Mn Dept Of Transportation 3,364.35

Pennington County Sheriff Office 20,203.29

Powerplan 9,332.28

Pro Mac Equipment Ltd. 4,027.18

R & Q Trucking, Inc 4,277.00

T-C Lighting 17,652.60

Traffic and Parking Control Co., Inc. 46,412.50

University of North Dakota 9,520.90

Voyageurs Comtronics, Inc 37,225.00

Wright Locksmith and Security Systems 2,606.95

70 Payments less than 2000 34,327.15

Final Total: 311,312.41

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: February 28, 2024 for $13,033.93; March 5, 2024 for $245,965.96; March 6, 2024 for $64,628.84

Donation Request

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve a request from the Lake of the Woods Women of Today for a Post Prom donation in the amount of $200.00.

Cigarette License Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the cigarette license application from J & L Hennum Sportsman’s Lodge.

Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative (JDAI)

Northern Region Coordinator Christopher Stolan gave a presentation about the Juvenile Detention Alternative Initiative. No action was taken at this time.

Public Works

Updates

Highway Maintenance Supervisor Keith Grund gave an update on various highway projects

Approval of Stop Signs Payment

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of lighted stop signs in the amount of $46,412.50 to be paid for out of ARPA funds.

Approval of Plow Truck Payment

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the payment of a plow truck up to the remaining balance of ARPA funds.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to add Lake of the Woods Cannabis Company to the agenda.

Lake of the Woods Cannabis Company

Eric Nerland came to the board to discuss the Lake of the Woods Cannabis Company business and intentions within the county. He would like the board to consider this business for a license when they become available for issuance.

Land & Water

Feedlot Annual Report

Resource Conservationist Mike Hirst presented the Feedlot Annual Report for approval.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the Feedlot Annual Report and for Chair Cody Hasbargen to sign the same.

Feedlot Update-Discussion on Proposed Language

Resource Conservationists Mike Hirst and Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund discussed proposed language for new regulations/requirements and requested feedback from the board.

Human Resources

Personnel Committee Recommendations

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following recommendations from the Personnel Committee effective next full pay period:

Auditor/Treasurer Fiscal Officer Rita Hasbargen: Grade 15, Step 10, $33.78 per hour at 336 points

Auditor/Treasurer DL/MV Election Supervisor Erik Tange: Grade 14, Step 8, $30.84 per hour at 311 points

Auditor/Treasurer Treasury Service Manager Connie Nesmith: Grade 12, Step 5, $26.17 per hour at 267 points

Auditor/Treasurer Property Tax/Board Admin Anna Sanchez: Grade 13, Step 7, $28.69 per hour at 287 points

Auditor/Treasurer License Clerk Chelsea Anderson: Grade 11, Step 6 $25.30 per hour at 253 points

IT Systems Administrator John Butenhoff: Grade 18, Step 10, $39.76 per hour at 419 points

MIS/GIS Coordinator Eric Solo: Grade 18, Step 10, $39.76 per hour at 419 points

Deputy Recorder Christie Russell: Grade 12, Step 12, $29.77 per hour at 267 points

Job Description Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the job descriptions for Auditor/Treasurer Fiscal Officer, DL/MV Election Supervisor, Treasury Service Manager, and Property Tax/Board Aministrator.

Building Committee- Craig Severs

Carpet quote approval for Government Center North Training Room

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the quote from Pirkl Lumber in the amount of $3629.48 for new carpet in the Government Center North Training room and plank flooring in the kitchen to be paid for out of building funds.

Legislative Updates

Commissioner Ed Arnesen gave an update on his recent trip to the capital meeting with Legislators regarding bonding for a new law enforcement building.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 11:05 a.m.

Attest: March 26, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair Cody Hasbargen

January 9, 2024

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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: Ed Arnesen, Cody Hasbargen, Jon Waibel, and Joe Grund. Also Present was Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. Absent: Commissioner Buck Nordlof

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Board Meeting Date Change.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of December 28, 2023.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of January 2, 2024.

Board Meeting Date Change

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to change the August 20^th, 2024 meeting to August 6^th, 2024.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $31,845.90; Commissioners Warrants $1,217.32; Commissioners Warrants $6,111.39.

Border Bank Signature Cards-Rep Payee Account

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to authorize Jodi Ferrier and Aspen Thompson or their successors to sign the Border Bank signature card for the Rep Payee Accounts.

Border Bank Signature Cards-Child Support Account

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to authorize Sheri Stebakken and Jo Aery or their successors to sign the Border Bank signature card for account number 4739.

Riverwood Bank Signature Cards-Social Welfare Account

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesn and carried unanimously to authorize Jodi Ferrier and Sheri Stebakken or their successors to sign the Riverwood Bank signature card for account number 2155.

Child Support Agreement and Child Support Arrangement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the Child Support Agreement and Child Support Arrangment between Minnesota Department of Human Services, Child Support and Lake of the Woods County.

Healthcare Access Plan

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Local County and Tribal Agency Biennial Health Care Access Services Plan.

Lakewood Health Ambulance Service-Letter of Support

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to draft a letter of support for Lakewood Ambulance Service to move from a BLS service to a part-time ALS service and for Chair Cody Hasbargen 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 $250,684.68; Road & Bridge $69,931.65; Solid Waste $34,471.94; EDA $365.00.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 1/09/2024 For Payment 1/12/2024

Vendor Name Amount

Air Med Care Network 16,803.00

ByteSpeed, LLC 7,713.00

Ferrellgas 2,051.72

Headwaters Regional Development Commiss 3,500.00

Integris LLC 2,159.90

KnowBe4, Inc 2,227.50

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 15,700.00

Mar-Kit Landfill 10,036.00

Mn Assn Of Counties 7,146.00

Mn Counties Computer Co-Op 21,470.97

MN Counties Intergovernmental Trust 168,235.00

Mn State Dept-Correction 27,762.36

Moren/Law Offices Of Patrick D 8,960.80

Motorola Solutions, Inc 17,079.83

OnSolve,LLC 7,875.00

Verus Corporation 3,896.75

WIDSETH SMITH NOLTING & ASSOC., INC. 8,350.00

47 Payments less than 2000 24,485.44

Final Total: 355,453.27

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: December 29, 2023 for $126,414.49; December 29, 2023 for $1,981,017.71; January 3, 2024 for $4,189.42.

ARPA Update

County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson gave an update on American Rescue Plan funds.

Northwest Angle Post Office Update

The board discussed options for the post office at the Northwest Angle.

Affidavit of Lost Warrant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Affidavit of Lost Warrant #40299.

Employee Recognition

The board presented John Butenhoff with the Steven R. Sindelir award for Excellence for the year 2023.

GIZIIBI

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund gave an update on GIZIIBI. It was the consensus of the board to no longer participate in GIZIIBI.

DITCH AUTHORITY

Motion

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

Ditch Funds Update

County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson gave an update on ditch funds.

Motion

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

PUBLIC WORKS

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects that included snowplowing and bridge projects.

Township Road Inventory

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl and the Board of Commissioners reviewed Township Road Inventory and discussed the future of the project.

Splashpad Advisory Committee

Shelby Mason, Calista Wolf, Lindsay Payne and Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) Representative Ashley Walker gave a presentation to the board to show the splashpad design they have created and to request funding in the amount of $35,000.00. No action was taken at this time.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 11:32a.m. and reconvened at 11:38 a.m.

LAND & WATER

Consideration of Interim Use Permit #24-01IU by Daniel Klis

Lot 2, Block 1, East Pine Creek, according to the recorded plat thereof, in Section Twenty-nine(29), Township One Hundred Sixty-eight(168) North, Range Thirty-four(34) West-Parcel ID# 02.51.01.020. Applicant is requesting an Interim Use Permit as required by Section 401.B of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Development Zoning District (R1). This portion of Pine Creek is considered Lake of the Woods, a General Development Lake.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following Interim Use Permit/Findings of Fact #24-01IU by Daniel Klis to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Development Zoning District (R1) with the following conditions:

The interim use permit terminates five (5) years from the date of approval or upon sale or transfer of the property whichever occurs first.
The maximum occupancy is limited to six (6) individuals as per the submitted application.
The established quiet hours are from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am as per the submitted application.
A valid Certificate of Compliance for the septic system is required.
No on-street parking is allowed.
If applicable, the applicant must meet the Minnesota Department of Health requirements.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Short-Term Vacation Rental Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant: Daniel Klis Date: January 9, 2024

Location/Legal Description: Lot 2, Block 1, East Pine Creek Plat

Project Proposal: Applicant is requesting an Interim Use Permit, as required by Section 1106 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance, to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Zoning District (R1).

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

Explain? Resort and recreational destination.

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

YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

If yes, explain? Applicant has met the criteria as per the submitted application.

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

Explain? This type of use is allowed in a Residential (R1) Zoning District.

Is the site in harmony with existing and proposed access to the property? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? Property has access from East Pine Drive Northwest.

Has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the traffic and parking are to be addressed? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? Applicant indicates parking on site as per the submitted application. No on street parking is to be allowed.

Has the applicant provided a map adequately depicting locations of property lines, well and septic system locations, accessory structures, parking areas, and shore recreational facilities?

YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? As per the submitted application.

Does the water test meet the Minnesota Department of Health drinking water standards? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? The water test results are part of the submitted application.

Has the applicant identified the maximum number of occupants? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? The maximum number of occupants is limited to six (6) people as per the submitted application.

Is the current SSTS compliant by evidence of a Certificate of Compliance and is the SSTS adequate to accommodate the identified maximum occupancy? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? The existing system has received a COC and is sized accordingly for the maximum occupancy.

Has the applicant established quiet hours? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? As per the submitted application, the quiet hours are 10:00 pm to 7:00 am.

Has the applicant provided a floor plan which includes the number of bedrooms and all other sleeping accommodations? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? See submitted application.

Has the applicant provided an evacuation plan/fire safety protocol and have identified the locations of smoke and Carbon Monoxide alarms and fire extinguishers? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? See submitted application.

Has the applicant identified a local person and their contact information? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? See submitted application.

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)

Explain? No signage is proposed as per the submitted application.

Is fencing and/or screening needed to buffer the project proposal from adjacent properties?

YES ( ) NO ( ) N/A (X)

Explain? No fencing and/or screening is warranted.

The answers to the questions above, together with the facts supporting the answers and those other facts that exist in the record, are hereby certified to be the Findings of the County Board of Commissioners.

The specific reasons for denial or conditions of approval are as follows:

The interim use permit terminates five (5) years from the date of approval or upon sale or transfer of the property, whichever occurs first.
The maximum occupancy is limited to six (6) individuals as per the submitted application.
The established quiet hours are from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am as per the submitted application.
A valid Certificate of Compliance for the septic system is required.
No on-street parking is allowed.
If applicable, the applicant must meet the Minnesota Department of Health requirements.

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

January 9, 2024 _____________________________________

Date Cody Hasbargen

Chair, County Board

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

Louis Taylor-Address Request

Mr. Taylor came to the board to request an address for his property.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the request from Mr. Louis Taylor to have an address created for his property.

Fairboard

JP Sweet came to the board to inform them that the carnival for the County Fair has raised their prices and would like to request additional funding to secure a carnival for the next fair.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to increase the funding amount from $25,000.00 to $35,000.00 for the County Fair Carnival.

CLOSED SESSION

Resolution

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

Resolution Closing Board Meeting

Resolution No. 2024-01-03

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Open Meeting Law, Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(b) states that “meetings may be closed if the closure is expressly authorized by statute or permitted by the attorney-client privilege;” and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners wishes to meet with its attorney to discuss an ongoing investigation pertaining to sensitive data, which data could be construed as confidential/private pursuant to the Minnesota Data Practices Act; and

WHEREAS, it would be detrimental to the interests of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners to hold a public discussion with its attorney regarding the ongoing investigation and its legal position; and

WHEREAS, there is an absolute need for the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners to obtain confidential legal advice regarding the ongoing investigation and potential legal options in order to maintain the attorney-client privilege.

BE IT RESOLVED, by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners as follows:

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby closes this meeting based upon the attorney-client privilege pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(b);
The specific subjects to be discussed, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(b), are the legal strategy of the Board regarding the ongoing sensitive data investigation.

Adopted by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota this 9th day of January, 2024.

Motion

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

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 12:35 p.m.

Attest: January 23, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair Cody Hasbargen

February 13, 2024

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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: Ed Arnesen, Cody Hasbargen, Jon Waibel, Buck Nordlof, and Joe Grund. Also Present was Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Splashpad, Purchase of PUP trailers, replacement of furnaces in highway shop, Crack Seal Agreement, and Transfer of Green Tahoe. Remove: JDAI

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of January 23, 2024.

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 $1,905.75; Commissioners Warrants $23,002.68; Commissioners Warrants $43,659.53.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to add Daycare Fire Alarms at Lake of the Woods School to the agenda.

Daycare Fire Alarms at Lake of the Woods School

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to assist in the purchase of a new fire alarm system in the daycare at Lake of the Woods School up to the amount of the remaining balance.

Approval of Phone Stipend

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve a cell phone stipend for Aspen Thompson in the amount of $60.00 effective March 2024.

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 $299,484.23; Road & Bridge $203,320.60; County Development $1,000.00; Joint Ditch $12,030.00; Solid Waste $63,482.41; EDA $1,282.50.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/13/2024 For Payment 2/16/2024

Vendor Name Amount

Acme Tools 2,933.86

American Solutions For Business 2,073.78

Arnesen/Ed 2,941.83

Bert’s Truck Equipment Of Moorhead Inc 141,953.00

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 20,986.47

Clay County Sheriff 4,973.62

Compass Minerals America 10,017.20

Counties Providing Technology 4,327.00

Deputy Registrar No. 75 8,355.64

Election Systems & Software, Inc 5,746.81

Farmers Union Oil company 2,432.37

Freeberg & Grund, Inc 5,646.63

Howard’s Oil Company 5,857.48

Information Systems Corporation 10,935.00

Integris LLC 2,403.26

Interstate Billing Service Inc 12,558.69

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 11,042.50

LOW Highway Dept 18,376.19

LOW Soil & Water Cons. Dist. 124,661.00

Mar-Kit Landfill 13,574.00

Moren/Law Offices Of Patrick D 9,065.73

Nw Mn Household Hazardous 5,311.00

Pennington County Sheriff Office 17,034.56

Pomp’s Tire Service, Inc. 11,547.44

Roseau Police Dept 5,000.00

Sandpieper Design Inc. 2,920.00

Schneider Geospatial, LLC 11,700.00

SeaChange Print Innovations 12,908.79

SHI International Corp 45,391.06

Verus Corporation 2,375.00

Ziegler, Inc 5,657.05

74 Payments less than 2000 39,892.78

Final Total: 580,599.74

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: January 24, 2024 for $140,114.12; January 31, 2024 for $50,785.45; January 31, 2024 $333.36; February 7, 2024 for $80,055.61; February 6, 2024 for $262,280.59; February 6, 2024 for ($34.00).

Transfer of Funds

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the temporary transfer of funds from general revenue to CARA grant funds to offset a negative balance.

Approval of Voyageurs Quote

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the quote from Voyageurs Comtronics Corporation in the amount of $74,450.00 for County TV transmitters to be paid for out of ARPA funds.

Appointment of 2024 Election Judges, UOCAVA & Absentee Ballot Boards and Hourly Pay

County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson met with the County Board to approve election judges, to set up UOCAVA and Absentee Ballot Boards, for the appointment of the Canvassing Board and to request a pay increase for the election judges; all for the 2024 primary and general elections.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the following election judges for the 2024 Presidential Primary (March 5, 2024), State Primary (August 13, 2024) and the General (November 5, 2024) Elections: Christie Russell, Sandy Peterson, Judy Johnson, Shelley Pepera, Rita Krause, Margie Sporlein, Dale Boretski, Dawn Christianson, John Carroll, Dena Pieper, Alisa Jacobsen, Heather Larson, Barb Larson, Beverly Becklund, Jo Aery, Roy Sandstrom, Mary Jo Otten, Jaime Boretski-LaValla, Mike Rasmussen, Marti Carlson, Jon Hanson, Lester Boomgaarden, Connie Nesmith, Anna Sanchez, Chelsea Anderson, Rita Hasbargen, Erik Tange and Lorene Hanson.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the hourly pay for election judges as follows: head election judges at $21.00 per hour and election judges at $20.00 per hour, effective with the 2024 elections.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to appoint the following Election Judges to the UOCAVA Board for the 2024 Presidential Primary, State Primary and General Elections: Christie Russell, Rita Hasbargen, Anna Sanchez, Connie Nesmith, Chelsea Anderson, Erik Tange and Lorene Hanson.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to appoint the following Election Judges to the Absentee Ballot Board for the 2024 Presidential Primary, State Primary and General Elections: Christie Russell, Lester Boomgaarden, Dale Boretski, Rita Hasbargen, Anna Sanchez, Connie Nesmith, Chelsea Anderson, Erik Tange and Lorene Hanson.

Appointment to Canvassing Board

County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson met with the County Board to request approval to appoint two Commissioners to the 2024 Canvassing Board.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to appoint Commissioners Joe Grund and Buck Nordlof to the Canvassing Board for the 2024 Presidential Primary, State Primary and General Elections.

Lake of the Woods Prevention Coalition

Letter of Support

Sandy Peterson and Doris Knutson came to the board to request a letter of support for the Strategic Prevention Framework Partnerships for Success (SPFPFS) Grant to continue the work they do by adding in mental health support.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to draft a letter in support of the SPFPFS grant and for Chair Cody Hasbargen to sign the same.

Human Resources

Permission to Hire Part-time Dispatch

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the request to hire Harley Poppitz as part-time dispatch at grade 11, step 1, $22.89 per hour at 253 points effective February 12, 2024.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set a work session for maintenance on March 12, 2024 following the regular board meeting.

Public Works

Approval of SAP 039-599-004

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to accept the bid for project SAP 039-599-004 from Korby Construction in the amount of $513,253.65.

Resolution to Accept Bridge Funds

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION

For Agreement to State Transportation Fund Local Bridge Replacement Program Grant Agreement Grant Terms and Conditions SAP 039-599-004

Resolution No. 2024-02-01

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has applied to the Commissioner of Transportation for a grant from the Minnesota State Transportation Fund related to Bridge No. 39530; 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 $187,175.36 by reason of the lowest responsible bid;

Approval of SAP 039-559-005

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to accept the bid for project SAP 039-559-005 from Korby Construction in the amount of $515,915.41.

Resolution to Accept Bridge Funds

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION

For Agreement to State Transportation Fund Local Bridge Replacement Program Grant Agreement Grant Terms and Conditions SAP 039-599-005

Resolution No. 2024-02-02

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has applied to the Commissioner of Transportation for a grant from the Minnesota State Transportation Fund related to Bridge No. 39531; 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 $505,915.41 by reason of the lowest responsible bid;

Approval of Bid SAP 039-598-072

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to accept the bid from Olson Construction from Thief River Falls, MN in the amount of 156,045.00

Extended Warranty on 210 G Excavator

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of an extended warranty for a 210 G Excavator up to 4,000 hours or the year 2028 in the amount of $5,194.80.

Purchase of Aluminum Box Culverts for Bridge Replacements

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of two aluminum box culverts in the total amount of $30,000.00 with $14,000.00 to be paid out of JD 24 funds.

Purchase of Belly Dump and PUP trailers

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of belly dump in the amount of $46,500.00 and two PUP trailers in the amount of $21,700.00.

Replacement of Furnaces in Highway Shop

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of three furnances from Rainy River Refrigeration in the amount of $18,990.00

Crack Sealing Agreement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the crack sealing project in the amount of $66,963.00.

Transfer of Green Tahoe

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to move the Green Tahoe from the Assessor’s office to the Landfill.

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on the NWA post office and discussed options for land recently purchased and a possible gravel pit location south of Williams.

Sheriff

Boat & Water Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the 2024 Federal Boating Safety Supplemental Equipment Grant in the amount of $3,950.00.

Land & Water

Consideration of Interim Use Permit #24-02IU by Walleye Empire, LLC

A parcel of land lying in the Southwest Quarter of the Southwest Quarter (SW1/4SW1/4), Section Twenty-five (25), Township One-hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West – Parcel ID#19.25.33.022. Applicant is requesting an Interim Use Permit as required by Section 1106 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Development Zoning District (R1).

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the following Interim Use Permit/Findings of Fact #24-02IU by Walleye Emipre, LLC to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Development Zoning District (R1) with the following Conditions:

The interim use permit terminates five (5) years from the date of approval or upon sale or transfer of the property, whichever occurs first.
As per the Winter Agreement, a septic system design or a compliance inspection of the existing system is to be submitted to the Land & Water Planning Office by July 31, 2024.
The maximum occupancy is limited to three (3) individuals as per the submitted application and then may be increased to nine (9) individuals upon completion of one of the following actions:

A certificate of Compliance is issued for a new SSTS. The SSTS design will determine the maximum occupancy allowed.
The dwelling is connected to the Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District,
The current septic system is to be abandoned and replaced with a or b above, by December 31,2025.

The established quiet hours are from 10:30p.m. to 6:30a.m. as per the submitted application.
Parking along State Highway 172 Northwest is prohibited.
If applicable, the applicant must meet the Minnesota Department of Health requirements.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Short-Term Vacation Rental Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant: Walleye Empire, LLC Date: February 13, 2024

Location/Legal Description: See Attached Parcel Number: 19.25.33.022

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

Explain? The project is located within the Growth Corridor, which is between Highway 172 and the Rainy River.

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

YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? Applicant has met the criteria based upon the submitted application and the septic system will be addressed when conditions allow.

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

Explain? This type of use is allowable, with appropriate conditions, in a Residential Zoning District (R1).

Is the site in harmony with existing and proposed access to the property? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? The property has a private driveway which is accessed from State Highway 172 Northwest.

Has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the traffic and parking are to be addressed? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? Applicant indicates parking on site as per the submitted application. No on street parking is to be allowed.

Has the applicant provided a map adequately depicting locations of property lines, well and septic system locations, accessory structures, parking areas, and shore recreational facilities?

YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? As per the submitted application.

Does the water test meet the Minnesota Department of Health drinking water standards? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? The water test results are part of the submitted application.

Has the applicant identified the maximum number of occupants? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? The application states a maximum of three (3) people. However, the applicant verbally indicated a maximum of nine (9) during the Planning Commission meeting. The maximum number of occupants is to be addressed in the conditions below.

Is the current SSTS compliant by evidence of a Certificate of Compliance and is the SSTS adequate to accommodate the identified maximum occupancy? YES ( ) NO (X) N/A ( )

Explain? Due to the time of year, the applicant has signed a Winter Agreement. The status of the current septic system is to be determined by July 31, 2024, as per the Winter Agreement. The septic system is to be addressed in the conditions below.

Has the applicant established quiet hours? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? As per the submitted application, the quiet hours to be from 10:30 pm to 6:30 am.

Has the applicant provided a floor plan which includes the number of bedrooms and all other sleeping accommodations? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? See submitted application.

Has the applicant provided an evacuation plan/fire safety protocol and have identified the locations of smoke and Carbon Monoxide alarms and fire extinguishers? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? See submitted application.

Has the applicant identified a local person and their contact information? YES (X) NO ( ) N/A ( )

Explain? See submitted application.

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)

Explain? No signage is proposed as per the submitted application.

Is fencing and/or screening needed to buffer the project proposal from adjacent properties?

YES ( ) NO (X) N/A ( )

Explain? An adequate vegetative buffer already exists.

The specific reasons for denial or conditions of approval are as follows:

The interim use permit terminates five (5) years from the date of approval or upon sale or transfer of the property, whichever occurs first.

As per the Winter Agreement, a septic system design or a compliance inspection of the existing system is to be submitted to the Land and Water Planning Office by July 31, 2024.

The maximum occupancy is limited to three (3) individuals as per the submitted application and then may be increased to nine (9) individuals upon completion of one the following actions:
1. A Certificate of Compliance is issued for a new SSTS. The SSTS design will determine the maximum occupancy allowed.
2. The dwelling is connected to the Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District.
3. The current septic system is to be abandoned and replaced with a or b above, by December 31, 2025.

The established quiet hours are from 10:30 pm to 6:30 am as per the submitted application.

Parking along State Highway 172 Northwest is prohibited.

If applicable, the applicant must meet the Minnesota Department of Health requirements.

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

February 13, 2024 _____________________________________

Date Cody Hasbargen

Chair, County Board

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

FY2024 State of Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources Watershed Based Implementation Funding Grant Agreement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to agree to implement the Grant Agreement in accordance with the BWSR policy.

Splashpad

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to conditionally give $35,000.00 to the splashpad committee pending DNR Grant approval.

CLOSED SESSION

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the closed session for Union Negotiation pursuant to MN Statute 13D.03, Sub 1(b).

Motion

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

Union Negotiations

The board discussed the matter of a holiday pay grievance.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to move forward with the mediation process over the request of holiday pay by the non-licensed LELS.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 11:15 a.m.

Attest: February 27, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair Cody Hasbargen

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GOVERNMENT CENTER

206 8th Ave SE Baudette, MN 56623

BOARD MEMBERS

ASSESSOR

Suite #296

AUDITOR/TREASURER

Suite #260

ATTORNEY

Suite #240

COURT OF ADMINISTRATION

Suite #250

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Suite #300

HUMAN RESOURCES

IT/GIS

Suite #210

LAND & WATER

Suite #290

PUBLIC WORKS

306 8th Ave SE, Baudette, MN

RECORDER

Suite #280

SHERIFF'S OFFICE

Suite #300

SOCIAL SERVICES

Suite #200

COMMUNITY

206 8th Ave SE Baudette, MN 56623

AREA LINKS

HOW DO I...

ASSESSOR

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EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

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Category: Minutes

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206 8th Ave SE
Baudette, MN 56623

206 8th Ave SE
Baudette, MN 56623

206 8th Ave SE
Baudette, MN 56623

206 8th Ave SE
Baudette, MN 56623