August, 2009

Special County Board Meeting

August 10, 2009

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in special session on Monday August 10, 2009, in the Jury room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center, with the following members present:  Commissioners Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel, Hanson, Moorman and Arnesen.  Also present was Human Resources Director, Wade Johannesen.  Chair Patty Beckel called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance. 

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board for his Job Evaluation.

Chair Patty Beckel asked Bruce if he wanted his evaluation open or closed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, Subd. 2(b). Bruce chose his to be open.

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board for her Job Evaluation.

Chair Patty Beckel asked Nancy if she wanted her evaluation open or closed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, Subd. 2(b). Nancy chose hers to be open.

Emergency Management Director, Holly House met with the board for her Job Evaluation.  Chair Patty Beckel asked Holly if she wanted her evaluation open or closed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, Subd. 2(b). Holly chose hers to be closed.

MIG/GIS Director, Brent Birkeland met with the board for his Job Evaluation. Chairman Patty Beckel asked Brent if he wanted his evaluation open or closed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, Subd. 2(b).Brent chose his to be open.

County Assessor, Wayne Bendickson met with the board for his Job Evaluation.  Chair Patty Beckel asked Wayne if he wanted his evaluation open or closed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, Subd. 2 (b). Wayne chose his to be open.

Veteran’s Service Officer, Rick Rone met with the board for his Job Evaluation.

Chair Patty Beckel asked Rick if he wanted his evaluation open or closed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, Subd. 2(b). Rick chose his to be open.

Chair Patty Beckel reported that all of the Department Heads that were evaluated today received favorable ratings.

With no further business before the board, Chair Patty Beckel recessed the meeting at 4:00 p.m.

Attest:                                                             Approved:  August 25, 2009

______________________________            ___________________________________

Wade Johannesen                                         Patty Beckel

Human Resource Director                           Chair of the County Board

Commissioner Proceedings

August 11, 2009

The Lake of the Woods County Board met in regular session on Tuesday, August 11, 2009, in the Commissioners’ Room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center.

Call to Order

Chair Patty Beckel called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present:  Commissioners:  Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Hanson and Moorman.  Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, Ted Stone, John Oren and Wade Johannesen.

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda for the meeting today with additions. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the consent agenda, for travel: Shelley Phillippe to Brainerd on September 30-October 2 for MWFWCAA Conference-Training. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Minutes

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the minutes of July 28th regular board meeting with changes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Auditor

Request of Funds

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid presented a letter of request for funds from Rural Life Outreach of NW Minnesota.  No action was taken.

General Service Agreement

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval of a service agreement with Ron Michaels Consulting, Inc. for implementation of the Manatron/MCCC property tax application.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to enter into agreement with Ron Michaels Consulting, Inc. from the implementation of the Manatron/MCCC property tax application upon the approval of the County Attorney and authorizes County Board Chair and County Auditor to sign.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Public Works Department

Highway Restructure

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen and Human Resource Director Wade Johannesen met with the County Board and discussed the Early Retirement Incentive Program.  Bruce and Wade recommended approving the proposal as follows:

Early Retirement Incentive Program (ERIP) – Public Works Department

  1. General:  The Director of Public Works, Lake of the Woods Countyhas proposed a realignment of the department which could result in substantial savings to the County. 
  2. Purpose:  The purpose of the realignment is to streamline the department and capitalize on new technologies thereby improving efficiency by reducing non-productive time due to seasonal restrictions and thereby providing significant cost savings to the County.
  3. Applicability: 
    1. This proposal applies to the Public Works Department and will affect both union and non-union personnel.  This proposal is voluntary and provides for an early retirement incentive.  It is not an involuntary Reduction in Force (RIF).  All applicable contractual union agreements will be strictly adhered to.
    2. This offer will be extended to  employees by seniority and to those who are currently eligible for a full or reduced pension through PERA.  This is a one-time offer and is only available to qualified employees for a limited period of time based on job criticality, recruitment time and the needs of the department which are to be determined. 
  4. Scope:  This program will endeavor to change out one FT Assistant Engineer, one FT Inspector II and one FT Heavy Equipment Operator positions with a modified FT Assistant Engineer, FT Inspector I/Office Assistant and a part time summer Equipment Operator respectively.  It will result in the loss of one seasonal engineering technician.
    1. Assistant Engineer: 

Rationale:  Position duties will change.  The Assistant Engineer will be the lead for all inspection and surveying duties.  Surveying will be done by purchasing the latest GPS capable equipment which will also allow for one less survey position.  Savings in survey time will be realized.

Discussion:  The Assistant Engineer will be experienced with the latest GPS technology equipment, have excellent computer knowledge and skills for CAD, and will be experienced in dealing with contractors.  The County may need to allow for a starting salary above the starting step for the grade assigned to the position.  GPS survey equipment and software will need to be purchased. 

Estimated Costs/Savings:

Salary and Benefits:

            Current Assistant Engineer.                                                                $76,000

            One Seasonal Survey Position                                                                8,000

            Total                                                                                                      84,000

            Less Replacement Asst. Eng.                                                                64,000

            Annual Savings:                                                                                  $20,000

One Time Costs:

            Incentive (50% of base salary/hourly rate)                                         $28,899

            Total:                                                                                                   $28,899

Recapture in 17.5 months

b.  Inspector II:

Rationale:  Position duties will change.  Assistant Engineer will be the lead for all inspections and surveying.  Inspector I/Office Assistant will assist in inspections when needed.  Inspector I will also handle GIS duties.  A portion of the workload will remain as Office Assistant.  Maintenance staff with certifications will also assist with inspections as needed.  Electronic timecard software will reduce office time.

Discussion:  The Assistant Engineer will need to handle the inspection, surveying and design.  The Inspector I/Office Assistant will need to have excellent computer knowledge and skills to assist in design and handle GIS.

Estimated Costs/Savings:

Salary and Benefits:

            Current Inspector II                                                                            $62,000

            PT Office Assistant                                                                              21,000          

            Total                                                                                                      83,000

            Less FT Inspector I/Office Assistant (JG-8)                                        43,000

            Annual Savings:                                                                                  $40,000

One Time Costs (Inspector II continued):                                         

            Incentive (50% of base salary)                                                            $22,874

            Total                                                                                                    $22,874

Recapture in 6.86 months

c.  Heavy Equipment Operator:

Rationale:  This position will be replaced in the summer with a seasonal employee.  Existing staff will cover snowplowing and other winter duties.

Discussion:  In the past, this department has had difficulty hiring quality applicants for the seasonal positions.  The part time scale may need to be examined.  Currently the rate is $12/hr.  An increase to $15/hr would cost approximately $3,000.

Estimated Costs/Savings:

Salary and Benefits:

            Current Heavy Equipment Operator:                                                  $56,000

            Total:                                                                                                   $56,000

            Less PT Seasonal Operator                                                                 $15,000

            Annual Savings:                                                                                  $41,000

One Time Costs:                                                                                            

            Incentive (50% of base salary)                                                            $20,358

            Total                                                                                                    $20,358

Recapture in 5.96 months

____________________________________________________________________

Total Annual Savings:                                                                                $101,000

Total One Time Costs:                                                                                    72,131

Total Recapture Time (months):                                                                       8.57                                                     

5.  Additional Discussions:

  • Considerations:
    • Consideration of this offer and acceptance are strictly voluntary. To accept this offer, an employee must sign a release agreement acceptable to the County Attorney waiving rights to pursuing any legal claim against the County, its employees and officers, either elected or appointed, related to this offer. This incentive program is offered in addition to the normal benefits granted to a retiring employee as per current contract/policy/statute. This plan must be approved by the County Board and County Attorney .
  • Assumptions:

Base salary is hourly rate or imputed hourly rate for exempts.  Allowances for benefits not included and will not be a factor in incentive.

Does not include accumulated comprehensive time which will be paid separately

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to implement the Early Retirement Incentive Program as presented by the Public Works Director.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote carried as follows:  Voting for:  Commissioner Arnesen, Hanson, Patty Beckel. Voting against: Commissioner Todd Beckel. Abstained: Commissioner Moorman.

human resource Director, wade Johannesen

Personnel Policy Waiver

Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen met with the board requesting assistance for Catastrophic Illness pay for Peggy Mosher for assistance with a family member.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the Catastrophic Illness pay for Peggy Mosher, upon completion of her probation period to be eligible for the Catastrophic Illness pay.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

2010 Tier 3- Step Increases

Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen discussed Tier 3 step value raises for eligible permanent part- time employees. The consensus of the board was to include them in the Tier 3 step increase at the step value.

Longevity

Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen discussed eligibility requirement for longevity for permanent part- time employees. Personnel policy reads that longevity payment for part-time employees begin when the employee has reached the equivalent of five years in time worked. The consensus of the board was those that have reached the five years equivalent will receive the longevity payment.

County Auditor

Claims

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid met with the County Board and requested approval of claims. 

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the following claims against the county as presented.

                                                Revenue                                   $   43,715.55

                                                Road & Bridge                         $   67,355.83

                                                Co. Development                     $     4,539.68

                                                Joint Ditch                                $     1,491.51                        

                                                Solid Waste                              $   21,964.53

                                                                                                  $ 139,067.10

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

WARRANTS APPROVED ON  8/11/2009 FOR PAYMENT  8/14/2009

       AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME                                                               AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME

          457.00 AMERI PRIDE LINEN & APPAREL SE                                     4028.00 ED ARNESEN

          318.91 AUTO VALUE BAUDETTE                                                         504.10 BEST WESTERN KELLY INN STCLOUD

        2190.00 BULLBERRY SYSTEMS, INC                                                    342.99 CANON FINANCIAL SERVICES INC

          322.95 CANTERBURY INN                                                                18392.38 CENEX CO-OP SERVICES, INC.

      13874.31 COLLABORATIVE DESIGN GROUP INC                                 696.61 CONNEY SAFETY PRODUCTS

          669.23 CUSTOM AUTOBODY AND REPAIR                                       785.22 FARMERS UNION OIL CO.

        1568.36 GARY’S AUTO                                                                           491.63 GCR TIRE CENTER

          375.04 GRAINGER, INC                                                                        876.38 HALL’S GUN SHOP

        1145.00 HELGESON FUNERAL CHAPEL                                            4882.00 HOFFMAN, DALE, & SWENSON, PLLC

        4013.66 HOWARD’S OIL COMPANY                                                    1118.20 INSIGHT PUBLIC SECTOR

          472.00 JOHNSTON FARGO CULVERT INC                                        314.67 LAB SAFETY SUPPLY, INC.

          345.83 LAKE ROAD DIESEL INC                                                      13895.00 LAVALLA SAND & GRAVEL INC

          690.68 LOW FOODS                                                                           5055.88 LOW HIGHWAY DEPT

          500.00 LOW SCHOOL DISTRICT–390                                            11525.40 MAR-KIT LANDFILL

          590.04 METRO FORMS, INC                                                                715.61 MINISTER OF FINANCE

          530.00 MN ASSN COUNTY OFFICES-MACO                                    5603.90 LAW MOREN

        1044.00 MSOP-MN SEX OFFENDER PRGRM-462                               745.50 NORTHERN FARMERS CO-OP

        2601.28 R & Q TRUCKING, INC                                                             500.00 RELIANCE TELEPHONE SYSTEMS, IN

        4000.00 RESERVE ACCOUNT                                                                913.94 ROSEAU COUNTY COOPERATIVE ASSN

        1000.00 ROSEAU COUNTY SHERIFF                                                   756.92 SILVER CREEK EMBROIDERY

        1750.00 SJOBERG’S INC                                                                        306.95 M SMITH PUBLISHERS LLC

        1965.37 TITAN MACHINERY                                                                 1062.44 TONY DORN, INC.

          610.68 UNIVERSITY OF MN                                                               3278.53 WALKER PIPE & SUPPLY

        6709.56 WIDSETH SMITH NOLTING&ASST INC                                6068.21 WOODY’S SERVICE

46 PAYMENTS LESS THAN  $300       8,462.74

FINAL TOTAL    $139,067.10

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                   July 28, 2009                          $ 21,020.37

                                                   July 22, 2009                          $   1,404.17

                                                   July 31, 2009                          $ 34,426.76

                                                August 4, 2009                          $      826.50

                                                August 6, 2009                          $ 11,189.90                                    

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

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 10:00 a.m. and reconvened at 10:05 a.m. as follows:

Northwest Community Action

Resolution

Gail Peterson and Diane Hayes representing Northwest Community Action met with the board requesting approval of a resolution to support the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program. Each State and local community is allocated a specific portion of that money, which Minnesota received 10.3 million. Northwest Community Action, non-profit agencies are required to obtain approval by the local unit of government in the service area, which includes Lake of the Woods County.

Resolution Authorizing Administration of Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program

Resolution No. 09-08-01

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

WHEREAS, the need for homeless prevention and assistance exists in Lake of the Woods County; and

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) has announced the availability of Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP) funding; and

WHEREAS, Northwest Community Action has applied for said funding; and

WHEREAS, Northwest Community Action desires to administer the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP) in Lake of the Woods County in accordance with all applicable State and Federal regulations; and

WHEREAS, in order to administer the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP), Northwest Community Action, Inc. must first obtain a resolution of approval executed by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners and file said resolution with the Minnesota Department of Human Services, Office of Equal Opportunity.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County hereby supports Northwest Community Action’s application for funding under the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program and Northwest Community Action, Inc. is hereby authorized to administer the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program in Lake of the Wood County, according to the program guidelines, contingent upon funding being granted and authorizes Board Chair to sign.

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

County Surveyor, Donn Rasmussen

Boundary Commission Plat Contract

County Surveyor, Donn Rasmussen met with the board and requested approval of the Boundary Commission plat contract.

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to enter into contract with Widseth, Smith and Nolting to prepare a Boundary Commission Plat in Gudrid Township, Lake of the Woods County: with an estimated cost according to the proposal of $10,000.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Emergency Management Director, Holly House

Hazard Mitigation Plan Update

Emergency Management Director, Holly House met with the board to update them on the five year renewal process of the Hazard Mitigation Plan. Holly informed the board that there is grant money available from FEMA for the renewal process of the plan.  The consensus of the board was to have Holly move forward with writing the grant.

Hazard Awareness Course

Holly informed the board that various county employees should have a renewal course in Hazard Materials.  She informed the board that she would be willing to write a grant for funding to purchase a power point class for this course so the individuals would be able to take the course according to their work schedule.

Public Works Department, Bruce Hasbargen

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board and updated them on the Oak Harbor Estates road issue.  Bruce stated that he has been in contact with Vince Smith and that no new action was taken and that as of now there is no intention to construct the road.

County Ditches

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board to discuss the unauthorized work that was done by Pieper Farms on a county ditch.  Bruce will send Pieper Farms a letter informing them of their cost, which they will pay to the private contractor, and other work that they will need to complete.

Public Hearing

Wetland Appeal- Tom Maiers

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the regular meeting and open the public hearing as advertised at 11:00 a.m.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Chair Patty Beckel opened the floor to Josh Stromlund, Land and Water Planning Director.  Josh went through the findings of fact report and Exhibits 0-20, which are on file and of record from this meeting, from the Technical Evaluation Panel (TEP).  The recommendation from the TEP, based upon the findings of this report, was to deny the wetland banking application submitted Mr. Tom Maiers.

Chair Patty Beckel opened the floor to Mr. Clinton Jordahl, consultant to Mr. Maiers.  Mr. Jordahl explained their stance and provided Exhibits A-DD, which are on file and of record, which supports their position to approve the wetland banking application.  Mr. Jordahl explained to the board that the TEP report contained procedural errors, only highlights certain items that support the TEP recommendation which doesn’t take under consideration the other items that support the application.

Chair Patty Beckel opened the floor to Mr. Dale Krystosek, Board of Water and Soil Resources Senior Wetland Specialist.  Mr. Krystosek explained to the board why he was attending the meeting and provided additional support of the TEP’s position.

Chair Patty Beckel brought the discussion back to the board members for questions and comments on this issue.

(Public Hearing was tape recorded)

Findings of Fact and Decision

Remand Order of Wetland Conservation Act Appeal

BWSR File 09-5

Applicant’s Name:  Tom Maiers

Applicant’s Authorized Representative:  Clint Jordahl, Bonestroo

Order of Remand:

As per this remand order, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners conducted a public hearing on August 11, 2009, to look at the missing hydrology and lateral effect information to see if it changes the board’s decision.  Upon reviewing the revised Technical Evaluation Panel’s (TEP) report and supporting documents as well as the documents submitted during the appeal hearings conducted in March, 2009, it is apparent that we are not the experts on the details that determine if hydrology exists or not and what extent the ditches affect the site.  Because of this we must rely upon the experts and the facts they have presented to make our decision.

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners decision is based upon the following:

  1. The site lacks evidence of hydrology.  There is documentation of above average precipitation and aerial photos which support this conclusion as well as the one inch of rainfall the day prior to the onsite inspection by the TEP at which there was no water present.
    1. Commissioner Arnesen commented that if undisturbed it could possibly revert back to wetlands.
  2. There is separate documentation from both the TEP and Mr. Jordahl regarding lateral effect.  They both determine that the perimeter ditches have a lateral effect.  These ditches therefore have a direct influence on the water table in the area.  The difference in numbers is irrelevant to the decision since they both showed lateral effect.
  3. It would be difficult for adjacent landowner to undertake legal drainage maintenance for the agricultural land.
  4. The local government unit must consider the extent to which proposed activities are consistent with other plans, such as watershed management plans, land use plans, zoning and master plans.
    1. The Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Land Use Plan is used to facilitate future development patterns.  Development patterns within the county have been in this area with new subdivisions and amount of building permits issued.  This site is seen as developable land due to its close proximity to the current development areas.
    2. The Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Wetlands Protection and Management Plan classifies this area as a low priority wetland.  Therefore, it is a poor replacement for disturbed wetlands.
      1. Commissioner Arnesen stated that he disagrees with the Land Use Plan as capital is needed to drive development in an area that is deficient of capital.  He believes that the best and highest use of the land is wetland banking.

Therefore, we find the TEP’s report reasonable to support their stance that the majority of the site lacks the hydrology sufficient to qualify as a wetland and the site is a poor location for a wetland bank from a selection, sustainability, and rule requirement perspective.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to X uphold ___reverse the decision rendered on March 24, 2009, which upheld the original decision of January 29, 2009, to deny the wetland banking application submitted by Tom Maiers. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the vote carried as follows:  All in favor:  Commissioner Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Moorman and Hanson Opposed:  Commissioner Arnesen – based upon private property right issues

Close Public Hearing

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the Public Hearing at 12:55 p.m.  and open the regular meeting. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Public Hearing

Local Water Management Plan

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the regular meeting at 1:10 p.m. and open the public hearing as advertised. 

Chair Patty Beckel requested that Mike Hirst, SWCD Resource Technician present the Local Water Management Plan.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the draft Water Plan Document to be sent to the Board of Water and Soil Resources Regional Supervisor, to be reviewed by other state agencies, and present the plan before the BWSR Northern Subcommittee. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Close Public Hearing

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the public hearing at 1:45 p.m. and open the regular meeting.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Old/New Business

The County Board discussed the following old and new business: 

New:

None

Old:

The board discussed the following old business:

  • Remove Boundary Commission from Old/New Business.
  • Red Lake Tribe Meeting- possible date of September 8th, need to send written request to be placed on the agenda

There were no new updates on:

  • Assessing Agreements, ANI, Capital & General Expenditure Policy, Community Support, Joint Meeting with Roseau County Board, County TV, Land Acquisition, Pilt Payment, Joint Meeting with City of Baudette and LOW School and Township Road Inventory.

Correspondence:

 Correspondence from the following, were read and acknowledge: 

  • MN Counties Insurance Trust (MCIT) Dividend
  • MN Dept of Revenue – CPA Reduction
  • MN Dept of Revenue – MVHC Unallotment
  • AMC Levy Limits and Special Levy
  • Motor Vehicle Audit

County Deputy Coroner Request

John Helgeson representing Helgeson Funeral Home and County Sheriff, Dallas Block met with the board to discuss the needs for Deputy Coroner.  Dallas will set up a meeting with County Coroner, Dr. Dayer to discuss appointments of Deputy Coroners and will report back to the board.

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund

Resolution

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board requesting approval to delegate certain functions with regard to implementation of the Wetland Conservation Act.

A RESOLUTION REGARDING THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE WETLAND CONSERVATION ACT

Lake of the Woods County
Resolution No. 09-08-02

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

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County is authorized by Minnesota Administrative Rules Part 8420.0200, Subpart 2, to delegate certain functions with regard to implementation of the Wetland Conservation Act, including decision authority for exemption, no loss, wetland boundary and type, replacement plan, and wetland banking determinations with its staff.

THEREFORE; BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners of Lake of the Woods County that decision authority for exemption, no loss, wetland boundary and type, sequencing determinations, replacement plan, and wetland banking determinations are placed with the Land & Water Planning Director.

Dated:             August 11, 2009


                                         Lake of the Woods County


                                         By: ____________________________________
                                                                     Chair of the Board of Commissioners


The resolution was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen,adopted by a vote of 5-0at the regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners of Lake of the Woods on August 11, 2009.

John W. Hoscheid

Lake of the Woods County Auditor

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler

Claims

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the County Board requesting approval of claims.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the following claims against the county:

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 13,512.82 

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants         $ 10,831.06

Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Community Support Program-RFP

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board to discuss the Community Support Program (CSP) Request for Proposals (RFP).  Nancy informed the board that the committee met and reviewed the two RFP’s, informed the board that the committee’s recommendation was to go with Merit-Care.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to accept the RFP with Merit Care and authorize Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler to move forward with the contracting process.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund

Performance Evaluation

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund, Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen met with the board for performance evaluation for Josh.  Chair Patty Beckel asked Josh if he would like his evaluation open or closed pursuant MN Statute § 13D.05, Subd. 3 (a). Josh requested the evaluation be open. Josh Stromlund received a favorable rating.

Recess

With no further business before the County Board, Chair Patty Beckel called the meeting to recess at 3:50 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved:      

____________________________                                                    ____________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                                    Patty Beckel, County Board Chair

Commissioner Proceedings

August 18, 2009

The Lake of the Woods County Board met in regular session on Tuesday, August 18, 2009, in the Angle Inlet School, Angle Inlet.

Call to Order

Chair Patty Beckel called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present:  Commissioners:  Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Hanson and Moorman.  Present on behalf of the County were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Land and Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund, Public Works Director Bruce Hasbargen and County Assessor Wayne Bendickson.  Also present were Northwest Angle area residents.

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the agenda for the meeting today with changes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the consent agenda for travel: Bruce Hasbargen – August 21–22, 2009 – NACE – Minneapolis, MN; September 9-10, 2009 – District 2 – Bemidji, MN; and September 23–24, 2009 LRRB – Mankato, MN.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Oak Island Association

Correspondence from the Oak Island Landowner Association was reviewed.  County Assessor Wayne Bendickson explained valuations and sales ratios on the Northwest Angle.  County Auditor John W Hoscheid presented a video and handouts explaining Minnesota Tax and answered questions relating to the Northwest Angle.

District Zoning for Island/Angle

Chair Patty Beckel opened the floor to Dick Gross, Oak Island landowner.  Mr. Gross submitted a petition on behalf of the Oak Island Landowners Association for the Lake of the Woods County to implement the following steps:

  1. To establish District Zoning provisions for the NW Angle Island which will facilitate the development of land use plans and zoning regulations appropriate specifically for this area (Ref: MN Statutes §394.25 subdivision 2);
  2. Contract the Headwater Regional Development Commission to develop a Comprehensive Land Use Plan specifically for the NW Angle Islands, including suggested zoning for implementing this Plan;
  3. That in the time between now and the completion of points 1 and 2 above, that there be a moratorium placed on Planned Unit Developments or Common Interest Developments and residential or commercial trailer development;

Mr. Gross discussed and reviewed the material within the petition with all that was present.

Land & Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund, provided information which included a map of Oak Island indicating the areas of Tribal and State Land.  Also, provided with the map were parcel numbers with corresponding acreages.  Mr. Stromlund further explained that if a 5 acre minimum was implemented, approximately 50% of the lots would be considered non-conforming which may be a detriment to these landowners.  He further explained that most of the lots have been developed and what is left to be developed would be hindered because of the amount of wetlands present on Oak Island.

Discussion in regards to lots being grandfathered in and the minimum lots size ensued.

The County Board of Commissioners reviewed the petition and will refer this document to the Interim County Attorney for review and opinion.  No action was taken.

Red Lake Tribal Council

Public Works Director Bruce Hasbargen updated the Northwest Angle residents on issues to be discussed with the Red Lake Tribal Council.  He is currently in the process of setting up a meeting with them.

Public Works Director

Public Works Director Bruce Hasbargen requested, with approval of the County Board, to transfer the approval of purchases to the next regular county board meeting on Tuesday, August 25, 2009. 

Recess

With no further business before the County Board, Chair Patty Beckel called the meeting to recess at 12:16 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved:       August 25, 2009        

____________________________                                                    ____________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                                    Patty Beckel, County Board Chair

Commissioner Proceedings

August 25, 2009

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, August 25, 2009, in the Commissioners’ Room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center.

Call to Order

Chair Patty Beckel called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present:  Commissioners:  Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel and Moorman. Commissioner Hanson was absent. Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, Ted Stone, and John Oren.

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda for the meeting today with additions. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the consent agenda, for travel: Janet Rudd to St. Cloud on September 17&18 for MDRA Annual Conference. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Minutes

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the minutes of August 10th special meeting. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the minutes of August 11th regular board meeting with changes and August 18th Northwest Angle meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler

Claims

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the County Board requesting approval of claims.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the following claims against the county:

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 13,656.56 

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants           $  2,959.29

Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

MinnesotaCare Contract

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the County Board requesting approval to open an internal position for a Social Worker in the Social Services Department.  This position is primarily responsible for providing services to individuals with mental illness.  The basic responsibilities include assessing adults who are mentally ill for appropriate mental health services, providing case management services to adults who primarily have a serious and persistent mental illness, providing community awareness of mental health issues, assessing allegations and concerns regarding vulnerable adults, and providing protective services to adults when needed.  

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to open an internal Social Worker position within the Social Services Department.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Department of Human Service Letter

Chair Patty Beckel and Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler reviewed the letter  they received from  Tim Wilken, Assistant Commissioner explaining the redesign of the Social Services Departments within the State.

County Auditor

Claims

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid met with the County Board and requested approval of claims. 

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the following claims against the county as presented.

                                                Revenue                                     $   9,788.64        

                                                Road & Bridge                           $ 30,331.52

                                                Solid Waste                                $      840.00

                                                                                                    $40,960.16

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION              

WARRANTS APPROVED ON  8/25/2009 FOR PAYMENT  8/28/2009

       AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME                                                                   AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME

          479.83 BEST WESTERN KELLY INN STCLOUD                                 840.00 COMMISSIONER OF TRANSPORTATION

        4933.82 CROP PRODUCTION SERVICES                                          2520.00 DUSTCOATING, INC

        6000.00 HEADWATER REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT                            309.93 HSBC BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

        7200.00 LAVALLA SAND & GRAVEL INC                                               600.00 LOW MASTER GARDENER

          580.74 M-R SIGN CO, INC                                                                13130.00 DAVID OLSON

          469.53 POWERPLAN                                                                             455.25 RODERICK RONE JR

          579.92 WEST GROUP

27 PAYMENTS LESS THAN  $300       2,861.14

FINAL TOTAL     $40,960.16

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                   August 12, 2009                     $  85,220.75

                                                   August 12, 2009                     $    4,800.00

                                                   August 12, 2009                     $  53,167.23

                                                   August 18, 2009                     $333,973.48

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

Health Insurance

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board to discuss the County’s Health Insurance Rates.  John informed the board that the rates increased by 1% and that PEIP is offering a new option called Advantage Plan. The Commissioners requested that John contact PEIP and ask that a representative meet with them and the employees to explain the health plan selection process and to answer questions.

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Update on renovation project/request for funds

Marlys Hirst, Executive Director and Historical Society Board member Dan Crompton met with the board to discuss their 2010 budget and the needs to renovate and add on to the County Museum.  They requested funding for three years in the amount of $25,000 per year.  The board took no action and said that they would report back to the society after the 15th of September.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 10:07 a.m. and reconvened at 10:15 a.m. as follows:

LAKE OF THE WOODS TOURISM BUREAU

2010 Budget

Lake of the Woods Tourism Executive Director, Denelle Cauble and President Tom Kratzke met with the board to discuss their 2010 budget and projected deficit.  Denelle informed the board that the Tourism Bureau board looked into the possibility of relocating the Economic Development Office (EDO) into the Tourism Bureau with the likelihood that Wyatt Johnson, Director of the EDO could help in the absence of the tourism bureau staff, requested that the county possible take over the accounts payable and payroll and/ or take care of the cost of the mandated yearly audit for the bureau. Tom requested that there be a time study done on how much time is spent with the collection/payment process of the lodging tax in the Auditor’s Office. County Auditor John W. Hoscheid stated that he would complete the study and report back to the board at the next meeting.

Emergency Management Director, Holly House

Emergency Management Performance Grant

Emergency Management Director, Holly House met with the board requesting approval for the EMPG.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to accept the EMPG and authorize Chair Patty Beckel and Emergency Management Director, Holly House to sign.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Hazard Awareness Course

Holly informed the board that she secured a grant to purchase the power point class for the Hazard Awareness Course and explained that the grant will be arriving and needs to be returned before the next board meeting and asked for the board to approve the grant at this time.

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to sign the Hazard Material Grant.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

county Sheriff

ATV Grant

Chief Deputy Sheriff, Jim Walton met with the board requesting approval for an ATV grant in the amount of $26,000 for a two year period.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to accept the ATV grant and authorize Chair Patty Beckel to sign.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Completion of probation period

Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen met with the board and recommended that the board approve the satisfactory report for the completion of the probationary period for Dispatcher Peggy Mosher and requested a one step increase.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to accept the recommendation of Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen for the satisfactory completion of probation for Dispatcher Peggy Mosher and to give a one step increase.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Public Works Department

Purchase of e/ Time Card Database

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board and discussed the purchase of the e/Time Card Database.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize the Public Works Director to purchase the e/Time Card Database for the Highway Department with the funding from the Township Road and Bridge fund.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Purchase of Pickups and Trailer

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board and requested to purchase two pickups and a trailer.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize the Public Works Director to purchase two (2) pickups and a trailer as budgeted for the Highway Department.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

NWA Solid Waste concrete slab

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen informed the board that he would like to complete the concrete slab that was budgeted for the NWA Solid Waste facility.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the budgeted amount of $5,000 for the concrete slab to be poured at the NWA Solid Waste facility.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Budget Dates

The board asked Bruce if he would be available on September 8, 2009 (regular scheduled board meeting date) at 7:00 a.m. to review the Highway Departments budget. Bruce stated that he will be able to be there at that time.

County Auditor

Correspondence: Regional Park & Trail/ Legislative Audit- lands

John informed the board that there will be a meeting on September 9, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. in Little Falls MN to discuss Park and Trail Funds that are available through the Legacy Amendment Act and asked if someone could attend.  Commissioner Arnesen stated that he would look at his schedule.

John informed the board that the Minnesota Legislative Audit would like to meet with some of them to discuss surplus DNR lands, adequacy of funding, easements, PILT/local government services and any issues with tax-forfeited lands on September 17th.  Some of the Commissioners had conflicts with that date and requested that they change the date to September 15th.  John will check on an alternate date and get back to the Commissioners.

EMERALD ASH BORER

Commissioner Todd Beckel talked about the Emerald Ash Borer that has been found in Minnesota, but and poses a great risk to the State’s Ash trees. Commissioner Todd Beckel distributed hand outs on the Ash Borer.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 11:55 a.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m. as follows:

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund

Energy Exchanger

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund and Gregg Hennum representing Sportsman’s Lodge met with the board to discuss the construction and placement of an Energy Exchanger.  Josh explained the system to the board and informed the board that Minnesota Administrative Rule 6115.0211, Subpart 6b, requires that the construction of privately owned structures shall be permitted only when a federal, state, or local governmental agency accepts responsibility for future maintenance of this type of facility or its removal in the event that the private owner fails to maintain or abandons the facility. This would require a resolution of acceptance of responsibility for this project.  After discussion, the board requested that this be referred to Interim County Attorney, Michelle Moren.

Lake of the woods water sustainability foundation

Annual Report

Executive Director, Todd Sellers, met with the board and presented the annual report for the foundation.

Old/New Business

The County Board discussed the following old and new business: 

New:

  • Public Hearing for the City of Baudette Annexation- September 28, 2009 at 6:00 p.m. at the Ambulance Garage.

Old:

The board discussed the following old business:

  • Township Road Inventory- Bruce to talk to Mike Carroll for the time line on this project.
  • County TV- John will call Lee Hervey for an update

There were no new updates on:

  • Assessing Agreements, ANI, Capital & General Expenditure Policy, Community Support, Joint Meeting with Roseau County Board, County TV, Land Acquisition, PILT Payment, Joint Meeting with City of Baudette and LOW School, Red Lake Tribe Meeting, Township Road Inventory, Oak Island Petition and Deputy Coroner.

Recess

With no further business before the County Board, Chair Patty Beckel called the meeting to recess at 2:00 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved:       September 8, 2009

____________________________                                                    ____________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                                    Patty Beckel, County Board Chair

August, 2008

Commissioner Proceedings

August 12, 2008

The Lake of the Woods County Board met in regular session on Tuesday, August 12, 2008, in the Commissioners’ Room in the Lake of the Woods County Government Center with the following members present:  Commissioners Bredeson, Todd Beckel, Arnesen and Moorman. Commissioner Patty Beckel was absent.   Also present were: County Auditor John W. Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd and John Oren. Chairman Bredeson called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance. 

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda with the following additions:  AMC appointment, Human Resources and budget update. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the consent agenda as follows:  Holly House to Mahnomen on October 1-2 for ICS 400 training; Dale McGuire and Brock Stebakken to Fergus Falls on August 6-7 for Operator Training; Joel Hanson to St. Cloud on July 27-29 for Mn/DOT Pedestrian Facility Design Training; Bruce Hasbargen to Brainerd on September 10-12 for MN Solid Waste Administrator Association Conference;  Bruce Hasbargen to Minneapolis on August 13-14 for the NACE Conference and MPCA demo landfill; Jodi Ferrier to Mahnomen on August 13-14 for Communities Collaborative Conference; Bill Sindelir to Breezy Point on September 24-26 for MN/DOT- R/W Professional Workshop;  Josh Stromlund for Leadership Training: 2008 — August 19-20, Moorhead; September 22-24, Duluth; November 20-21, Morton;  2009 — January 21-22, Alexandria; March 1-5, Washington, DC; June 23-25, Lanesboro and August 5-6, Grand Rapids. Seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve July 22, 2008 minutes with removing the John Deer 2010 Tractor from the closed bid for used equipment; approve the July 23 and July 29 budget minutes. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler, met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the claims against the county except for claim numbers 1719, 3450 and 753 as follows:

Commissioners’ Warrants       $ 43,010.72

Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Emergency Manager, Holly House met with the board requesting approval for the 2008 Emergency Management Preparedness Grant.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the 2008 Emergency Management Preparedness Grant and authorize Board Chairman and Emergency Management Director to sign.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Human Resources Director, Wade Johannesen met with the board requesting approval of one step increase for Charlene McGraw and Tony Crow for completion of their probationary period effective respectively July 28, 2008, and July 31, 2008, after completion of a satisfactory and written review.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously.

County Sheriff Dallas Block, Chief Deputy Sheriff Jim Walton and the County Board discussed the City of Baudette (City) Law Enforcement Contract that will expire on August 31, 2008.  Chairman Bredeson reviewed the letter that was received from City Mayor Rick Rone stating that the Council was pleased with the current agreement and that they would be willing to continue with the present agreement at $1,000 per month.  After discussion, the consensus of the board was to decline the $1,000 offer and send a letter to them stating that they do not desire to renew the contract and to make necessary arrangements to vacate the Lake of the Woods County Law Enforcement Center by August 31, 2008.

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board requesting approval of vacating of Township Road #200 (Aspen Drive).

The following resolution was proposed by Commissioner Todd Beckel and moved for adoption:

RESOLUTION NO. 08-08-01

Vacation of Township Road #200 (Aspen Drive)

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, under M.S. 164.07, intends to vacate a portion of Township Road #200 (Aspen Drive);

WHEREAS, said portion of Township Road #200 of Winter Roads Acres 1st Addition, Section 17, T-161-N, R-31-W lies adjacent to Lot 9, Block 1, and is more fully described as follows:

Commencing at the South ¼ Corner of said Section 17, T-161-N, R-31-W, thence in a Northeasterly direction on and along the Easterly boundary of Lot 9, Block 1, Winter Road Acres 1st Addition on an assumed bearing of N27º27’E a distance of 134.67’ to the point of beginning; thence in a Northwesterly direction on an assumed bearing of N62º33’W a distance of 132.00’ to a point; thence in a Northeasterly direction on an assumed bearing of N27º27’E a distance of 83.68’ to a point; thence in a Southeasterly direction on an assumed bearing of S39º51’E a distance of 143.08’ to a point; thence in a Southwesterly direction on an assumed bearing of S27º27’W a distance of 28.46’ more or less back to the point of beginning.

WHEREAS, said parcel lies wholly within Gov. Lot 3, Section 17, T-161-N, R-31-W and contains 0.17 acres more or less.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, to hereby vacate the aforementioned portion of Township Road #200 according to MN Statutes 164.07 and authorize Board Chair to sign all releases.

Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board and discussed Mark LaValla’s Permit-By-Rule Demolition Landfill. The history and involvement of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Lake of the Woods County Public Works Department was reviewed.  Board consensus was all three agencies should split the costs for material removal, with the County share being covered by landfill tipping fees.

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board and updated them on the Township Road Inventory and stated that 45% of the inventory has been entered into the computer. He reviewed and discussed the 2009 Highway budget.

Colleen Hoffman from Hoffman, Dale and Swenson PLLC met with the board and presented the 2007 year end audit.

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to accept the 2007 year end audit as presented.  Seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

The meeting was called to recess at 11:53 a.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m. as follows:

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to close the meeting and open the Planning Commission Hearing at 1:00 p.m. as advertised.  Seconded Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board requesting consideration of a Initial Plat for Wayne Bendickson.

Wayne Bendickson                 Hanson Estates 1st Addition              A Public Hearing as required by the

& the remaining portion of the          Lake of the Woods County           NW ¼ of the NW ¼ of Section         Subdivision Ordinance to consider 36, T-162N, R-32W (Wheeler)         the Initial Plat of Marina Drive  

                                                           Estates

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to table the request of the Initial Plat of Marina Drive Estates until the next Planning Commission, dated September 10, 2008, at 5:00 p.m.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the Planning Commission Hearing at 1:26 p.m. and reconvene the regular meeting. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

The board tabled the Business Subsidy Criteria to the August 26th board meeting when the full board will be in attendance.

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and requested approval of claims.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                                Revenue             $   37,385.11

                                                Road & Bridge   $ 240,962.10

                                                County Develp.  $        200.00

                                                Solid Waste        $   24,896.86

                                                                           $ 303,444.07

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

WARRANTS APPROVED ON  8/12/2008 FOR PAYMENT  8/15/2008

      AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME                                                     AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME

          375.00 BRIAN ACHEN                                                           538.48 AMERI PRIDE LINEN & APPAREL SE

          717.36 ANDERSON POWER AND EQUIPMENT                 2724.09 ANDY’S GARAGE, INC.

        1154.38 AUTO VALUE                                                            494.17 BAUDETTE REGION

          300.00 BAUDETTE-LOW CHAMBER OF COMMER             473.83 TODD BECKEL

        3755.60 BERNTSEN INTERNATIONAL INC                        1074.82 BRAUN INTERTEC CORPORATION

        3200.00 BULLBERRY SYSTEMS, INC                                    341.78 CANON FINANCIAL SERVICES

      20609.97 CENEX CO-OP SERVICES, INC.                              3000.00 DEPOT PRESERVATION ALLIANCE

        1695.81 DLT SOLUTIONS, INC                                             1040.00 GM CONSTRUCTION INC

          507.84 GRACETON GARAGE & BODY SHOP, I                 1849.45 LEE HANCOCK

          494.87 RON HILDEBRANDT                                                 600.00 HOLEN ELECTRIC

          405.20 HOLIDAY INN – ST. CLOUD                                     324.63 HOMETOWN HARDWARE

        4612.13 HOWARD’S OIL COMPANY                                      613.16 JAKE’S QUALITY TIRE INC

          533.24 CHARLES KOTHRADE                                              946.91 LAKE OF THE WOODS FOODS

          300.00 LAKE OF THE WOODS ROD & GUN CL                3710.79 LOW HIGHWAY DEPT

        1096.37 M-R SIGN CO, INC                                                 13083.30 MAR-KIT LANDFILL

          478.90 METRO FORMS, INC                                               2821.47 MN COUNTIES COMPUTER CO-OP

          918.57 JEROME MOLINE                                                    1073.85 KENNETH MOORMAN

        5499.59 LAW MOREN                                                             554.43 NOBLE THRIFTY WHITE

        1265.75 NORTHWEST MN MULTI-COUNTY HRA              1067.10 POWERPLAN

        1202.24 QUILL CORPORATION                                            3127.16 R & Q TRUCKING, INC

          375.86 RM JOHNSON CO INC                                               784.75 RODERICK RONE JR

        3500.00 SJOBERG’S INC                                                          350.84 T R JOBBING

          881.02 TITAN MACHINERY                                                 382.99 TONY DORN, INC.

      87197.94 TRUCK BODIES & EQUIP INTL INC                  107715.11 TWIN CITIES MACK & VOLVO TRUCK

          670.95 WALKER PIPE & SUPPLY                                         833.33 WIDSETH SMITH NOLTING&ASST INC

        4101.80 WOODY’S SERVICE

60 PAYMENTS LESS THAN  $300       8,067.24

****                  FINAL TOTAL…….    $303,444.07  ****

Further moved to authorize the payment of auditor’s warrants as follows:

                                                July 22     2008            $ 25,808.04

                                                July 22,    2008            $ 64,791.81

                                                July 29,    2008            $ 21,597.40

                                                August 4, 2008           $ 50,063.08

                                                August 5, 2008           $   6,361.26

Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Delane Walker, representing the 2008 Oktoberfest Committee met with the board requesting funding for the Oktoberfest due to the reorganization of the committee.

Motion was made by Commissioner Bredeson to donate $500 to the Oktoberfest Committee with the funding from the General Fund for 2008.  Seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the vote carried as follows:  Voting for:  Commissioners’ Bredeson, Moorman and Todd Beckel; Voting against: Commissioner Arnesen.

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and requested approval to appoint the 2008 canvassing board for the primary and general election.

The following resolution was proposed by Commissioner Todd Beckel and moved for adoption.

Resolution 08-08-02

BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board does hereby appoint Commissioner Todd Beckel and Commissioner Moorman, Baudette City Clerk Tina Rennemo, County Auditor John W. Hoscheid and Deputy Court Administrator Sara Thompson to the 2008 Primary and General Canvassing Board set for September 11, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. in the Commissioners’ Room and November 6, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. in the Court Room in the Lake of the Woods County Government Center.

Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Auditor John W Hoscheid met with the board and discussed the decrease in the 2009 County Program Aid with the board.

County Auditor John W Hoscheid discussed the AMC Board of Directors decision to move forward with a plan to stand up to the Administration and Legislature regarding the theoretical “partnership” between the state and counties.  He requested that the County Board appoint a contact person for this project.  The County Board requested the County Auditor be the contact person..

County Auditor John W. Hoscheid met with the board and requested approval for Lawful Gambling for Northwest Angle Edge Riders and Lake of the Woods Ducks Unlimited.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the application for exempt gambling for the Northwest Angle Edge Riders for a raffle, which will be held at Flag Island Resort on February 28, 2009.  Seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the application for exempt gambling for the Lake of the Woods Ducks Unlimited for a raffle, which will be held at Sportsman’s Lodge on September 13, 2008.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Arrowhead Library System Executive Director, Jim Weikum met with the board to discuss the Adjusted Net Tax Capacity (ANTC) data that he received from the Minnesota Department of Education.  He informed the board that the data shows a 25 % increase for Lake of the Woods County (excluding the City of Baudette) and that the Arrowhead Library System has requested modification language to the Statute to use a multiyear averaging and that this is already in place with AMC. 

County Auditor John W. Hoscheid met with the board to discuss the 2009 budget.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to round up the vacation, sick leave and compensation time accrued balances, as recommended by Hoffman, Dale and Swenson, PLLC.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize the Chairman to sign the City of Baudette law enforcement letter terminating the contract effective August 31, 2008. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize County Sheriff Dallas Block to purchase a new recorder for the 911 system with the funding from the 911 fund.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

With no further business before the board, Chairman Bredeson called the meeting to recess at 4:21 p.m.

Attest:                                                                         Approved:       August 26, 2008

____________________________                            _____________________________

John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor                           Kim Bredeson, Chairman

 

 

Commissioners’ Proceedings

August 19, 2008

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, August 19, 2008, at the Angle Inlet School, with the following members present:  Commissioners Arnesen, Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel, Moorman and Bredeson.  Others present on behalf of the County were:  County Auditor John W. Hoscheid and Public Works Director Bruce Hasbargen. Also present were Northwest Angle area residents. Commissioner Bredeson called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the consent agenda as follows:  Brent Birkeland to St. Cloud on August 20 for Manatron Tax User meeting and Shelly Pepera & Monique Arnesen to Crookston on September 23-24 for training on the SSIS software.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Public Works Director Bruce Hasbargen gave an update on the current and future plans for the NWA roads.  Commissioners Arnesen and Todd Beckel will be meeting Congressmen Collin Peterson next week and will be discussing this further.

A petition was presented to the County Board by Jessica Fandrich, NWA Chamber of Commerce for street lights or lights on the corners. Petition stated “Yes!  Public Safety at the Angle is of utmost important to both the landowners and to the visitors to the area.  We support the Chamber in its pursuit of this project and request budget allocation to the annual costs of the electricity.”   Bruce Hasbargen explained and commented on this project.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to support and purchase up to 3 lights, with the funding from the Northwest Angle township levy for the installation and maintenance.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and carried as follows:  For:  Commissioners Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Kim Bredeson and Ken Moorman; Against:  Commissioner Todd Beckel. 

Discussion was had regarding the garbage and the garbage run. The Northwest Angle area residents complimented and thanked the board for supporting this project.

Bruce Hasbargen discussed scrap metal funds and its’ usage.  The scrap metal sales are receipted in the Solid Waste fund.

Calcium chloride and special assessments were discussed and reviewed with no action taken at this time.

Discussion was had on bait across the land border.  No action was taken at this time.

Commissioner Arnesen gave a cormorant update.  Commissioners Arnesen and Todd Beckel will be meeting with Mark Holstein and Congressman Peterson to discuss the same.

Chairman Bredeson gave an update on the City Watch call system that is now currently being tested by Sheriff Dallas Block.  This call system would be used for emergency services and tornado warnings.

Fire Department issues were discussed with no action taken at this time.

Passports and cell phone services for the area were all discussed with no new updates.

County Auditor John W Hoscheid gave an update on the taxes for the Northwest Angle and reviewed the trails on the Angle.

County Auditor discussed the Wildflower project and the recommendation from the State Auditor that Lake of the Woods County not be the fiscal agent for this project.

County Auditor John W Hoscheid presented a letter from the MN Department of Natural Resources announcing plans to hold a sale of metallic minerals exploration and mining leases.  The County Board of Commissioners directed the Auditor to send a letter to the Division of Lands and Minerals and invite them to meet with the board to discuss this further.

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

A RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION

RESOLUTION NO. 2008-08-03

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County received assistance in securing the new power line and upgrading current lines through Roseau Electric Cooperative at the Northwest Angle;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby wishes to thank Congressmen Collin Peterson and his staff for all their assistance.

Seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Chairman Bredeson requested a Website update at the next regular board meeting from MIS Director Brent Birkeland.

There being no further business before the Board, Chair Bredeson called the meeting in recess at 12:25 p.m.    

Attest:                                                                      Approved: August 26, 2008

______________________________                                 _____________________________

John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor                                    Kim Bredeson, Board Chair  

Commissioner Proceedings

August 26, 2008

The Lake of the Woods County Board met in special session on Tuesday, August 26, 2008, in the Commissioners’ Room in the Lake of the Woods County Government Center with the following members present:  Commissioner’s Bredeson, Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel and Moorman. Commissioner Arnesen was absent.   Also present was Human Resources Director Wade Johannesen. Chairman Bredeson called the meeting to order at 700 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Wade Johannesen met with the board to assist in the evaluation of County Assessor, Wayne Bendickson job evaluation in the absence of the Assessor.

The board discussed the Non-elected department heads and concurred that all received a satisfactory job performance.

The meeting was called to recess at 8:55 a.m. and the regular session was opened at 9:00 a.m. with the following members present: Commissioner’s Bredeson, Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel, Moorman and Arnesen.  Also present were: County Auditor John W. Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, John Oren and Penny Mio Hirst.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda as presented. Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the consent agenda as follows:  

Janet Rudd to St. Cloud on September 18-19 for MDRA conference; Sue Ney to Alexandria on September 9&10 for MACO eCountiesConference; Amy Ballard  to Bemidji for Supervisor Core on the following dates:  September 9 & 10, October 15 & 16, November 18 & 19, December 16 & 17 and February 10 & 11, 2009. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the minutes of August 12, 18 and 19 2008. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Chairman Bredeson welcomed Senator Saxhaug to the meeting.  The board discussed the following issues with the Senator: cormorant, the shortfall on CPA and the Wheelers Point Sewer project.

Emergency Management Director, Holly House met with the board for the approval for the 2007 Homeland Security Grant Program.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to accept the Homeland Security Grant Program effective July 1, 2008 and authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and Chairman Bredeson to sign the grant.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and Emergency Management Director, Holly House met with the board and presented a resolution approving amendments to the Joint Powers Agreement Governing the Northwest Minnesota Regional Radio Board.

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Todd Beckel and moved for adoption:

A Resolution Approving Amendments to Joint Powers Agreement

Governing the Northwest Minnesota Regional Radio Board

Resolution No. 08-08-03

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County is a member of the Northwest Minnesota Regional Radio Board, and

WHEREAS, the Joint Powers Agreement governing the Northwest Minnesota Regional Radio Board provides that all modifications to the Agreement require approval by all parties to the Agreement by adoption of a resolution, and

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Counties Insurance Trust has recommended two modifications to the Joint Powers Agreement governing the Northwest Minnesota Regional Radio Board, and

WHEREAS, the Northwest Minnesota Regional Radio Board recommends the adoption of the recommended modifications, and

WHEREAS, the recommended modifications have been attached to this Resolution, and

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County hereby approves the modifications to the Joint Powers Agreement governing the Northwest Minnesota Regional Radio Board as submitted and recommended by the Northwest Minnesota Regional Radio Board and attached hereto.

Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid discussed the quotes he received for a new vehicle for the motor pool, which the board requested him to research.  The consensus of the board was to wait until the new State Contract was available before purchasing.

The meeting was called to recess at 9:55 a.m. and reconvened at 10:00 a.m. as follows:

Dan Crompton, Representing the Lake of the Woods Historical Society met with the board to discuss the proposed expansion plans that they are working on and requested consideration of funding in the amount of $75,000 over three years.  The board concurred that they would take this under consideration in their budget processing.

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler, met with the board requesting approval of claims and stated that she will be bringing the County Paid Burial Policy to the board to request raising the cap of burial cost.

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the claims against the county as follows:

Commissioners’ Warrants       $ 44,383.63

Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

FAR North Public Transit Director, Steve Butler met with the board to discuss the 2008 revenue and expenditures through July, requested to purchase the 1996 bus from Lake of the Woods County for backup use in Roseau County and requested the funding for the 2008 bus for Lake of the Woods County that has been allocated for such purchase. The board discussed how the FAR North Transit operates at this time.  Steve informed them that the Roseau County Committee of Aging now is the Contract holder of FAR North Transit and FAR North Transit sub contracts with Lake of the Woods County.  The board requested a meeting with Kent Ehrenstrom, MN Department of Transportation, NW District Transit Planner.

Matt Mickelson, Maintenance Supervisor met with the board and discussed parking issues at the Government Center North Building.  The board requested that Matt set up a meeting with the Building Committee to discuss this matter and bring back a recommendation to the board.

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board and requested the board set a public hearing to vacate Chandler Road within Hanson Estates First Addition.

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to set September 23, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners Room, as the date, time and place for a public hearing to vacate Chandler Road within Hanson Estates First Addition.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the vote carried as follows:  Voting for:  Commissioner’s Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Moorman and Bredeson; voting against:  Commissioner Todd Beckel.

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board and requested approval to enter into agreement No. 93333, with the Minnesota Department of Transportation, for the Depot Preservation Project.

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Todd Beckel and moved for adoption:

Resolution to enter into Agreement No. 93333 with the Minnesota Department of Transportation:

RESOLUTION NO. 08-08-04

BE IT RESOLVED, that pursuant to Minnesota Statute Sec. 161.36, the Commissioner of Transportation be appointed as Agent of the Lake of the Woods County to accept as its agent, federal aid funds which may be made available for eligible transportation related projects.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Chairman of the County Board and the County Auditor are hereby authorized and directed for and on behalf of the County to execute and enter into an agreement with the Commissioner of Transportation prescribing the terms and conditions of said federal aid participation as set forth and contained in “Minnesota Department of Transportation Agency Agreement No. 93333”, a copy of which said agreement was before the County Board and which is made a part hereof by reference.

Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board and discussed the special levy for the calcium chloride application and lighting project at the Northwest Angle. The board concurred that the calcium chloride and lighting project should be levied yearly. Bruce also stated that the township road inventory is 80% done.

Chief Deputy Sheriff, Jim Walton met with the board and updated them on the “City Watch Notification Services”, (now referred to as Lake of the Woods Reverse Call Back System) He explained that it is not working and that County Sheriff, Dallas Block is working on getting reimbursed.

Mark Anderson from the Department of Transportation met with the board and discussed the Outdoor Advertising Control on Minnesota Scenic Byways in which, State Highway 11 “Waters of the Dancing Sky” is within Lake of the Woods County and is designated as a State scenic byway.  Mark stated that Mn/DOT is required by federal law not to allow new off-premises advertising signs along Federal Aid Primary routes on a designated scenic byway. Lake of the Woods County can allow exceptions referred to as “GAPS” in which they can designate.  The board will look into the GAPS that Mark Anderson recommended and discuss this at a later meeting.  

The meeting was called to recess at 12:05 p.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m. as follows:

MIS/GIS Director, Brent Birkeland met with the board and discussed the board’s request on Website update and if agendas and special meetings could be available to the NWA Resident.  The board concurred that anyone wishing to receive notices can contact the Auditor’s office and they would be added to the distribution list which is sent informing residents of special meetings and agendas. Brent also presented the telecommunications consulting proposal for the present system that the county has.  No board action was taken.

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board and informed them that Attorney Dave Meyers could meet with them on September 17, 2008 to discuss township road inventory.  The board set September 17, 2008, at 8:00 a.m. to meet with Attorney Dave Meyers.

The board reviewed the Business Subsidy Criteria and made some changes in the Program Policy / Procedures and the Policy and Criteria. Commissioner Arnesen discussed the loan range and wanted the cap amount of $75,000.  The rest of the board did not want a loan range cap.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to set a public hearing for the revised Business Subsidy Policy and Criteria for October 14, 2008, at 11:00 a.m. in the Commissioners’ Room.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Treasurer, Mark Hall met with the board and presented the “Lake of the Woods County Investment Policy” to the board.  The board requested that he send the policy to Hoffman, Dale and Swenson PLLC for their review and comments.

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and requested approval of claims.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                                Revenue             $  27,208.91

                                                Road & Bridge   $116,180.48

                                                Solid Waste        $    4,318.52

                                                                           $ 147,707.91

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

WARRANTS APPROVED ON  8/26/2008 FOR PAYMENT  8/29/2008

     AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME                                AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME

         481.00 CLYDEWARNER MFG                                     1398.89 DELL MARKETING, LP

       1440.00 EARTHWORKS CONTRACTING INC         2750.70 ESRI

         520.23 GCR TIRE CENTER                                          1057.32 GRACETON GARAGE & BODY SHOP, I

       4790.00 HOFFMAN,DALE,&SWENSON,PLLC       21178.42 JOHNSTON FARGO CULVERT INC

       1012.50 ROBERT LAPOS                                                   390.98 LOCATORS SUPPLIES INC

         400.00 LOW HOME COUNCIL                                    1331.25 JACK MCCLARD & ASSOCIATES INC

       4816.09 MINISTER OF FINANCE                                   675.00 MN OFFICE OF ENTERPRISE TECHNO

         424.02 JEROME MOLINE                                               304.20 BILL MOSHER

       1250.22 RODERICK RONE JR                                       1000.00 ROSEAU COUNTY SHERIFF

         312.15 BROCK STEBAKKEN                                      3267.59 STRATA CORP, INC

       1598.87 GEORGE SWENTIK                                          7991.18 SYNERGY GRAPHICS, INC

       1700.00 T & M SALES  DBA                                           1724.92 TRI-STAR RECYCLING, INC

    81101.08 UNIVAR USA,INC                                                646.95 VOYAGEURS COMMUNICATIONS, INC

31 PAYMENTS LESS THAN  $300       4,144.35

****                  FINAL TOTAL…….    $147,707.91  ****

Further moved to authorize the payment of auditor’s warrants as follows:

                                                August 13, 2008         $ 417,240.82

                                                August 13  2008         $   50,674.78

                                                August 13  2008         $     7,038.40

Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the vote carried as follows: Voting for: Commissioners Arnesen, Patty Beckel and Moorman.  Voting against: Commissioners Bredeson and Todd Beckel.

The board discussed the Capital General Expenditure Policy that was approved on March 8, 2005 and requested that this be placed on the Department Heads Meeting agenda for their review of the policy.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the application and affidavit for lost warrant for Todd Beckel, dated March 14, 2008, in the amount of $164.53, without furnishing an indemnifying bond.  Second by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried with Commissioner Todd Beckel abstaining.

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and discussed the Biomass Energy Outreach Workshop that the University of Minnesota Extension will host in our region with a tour of the Northern Excellence gasification project.  The board concurred that they would be interested in participating in the workshop and to pass this on to the appropriate organizers.

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and requested approval to satisfy a repayment agreement for Thomas F. Cheney, Jr. and Bianca Cheney dated May 19, 1998.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the satisfaction of repayment agreement for Thomas F. Cheney, Jr. and Bianca Cheney dated May 19, 1998, as mortgagor, to Lake of the Woods County and authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and Chairman Bredeson to sign the satisfaction of repayment agreement dated August 26, 2008.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

With no further business before the board, Chairman Bredeson called the meeting to recess at 3:04 p.m.

Attest:                                                                         Approved:       September 10, 2008

____________________________                            _____________________________

John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor                           Kim Bredeson, Chairman

August, 2007

Special County Board Meeting

August 6, 2007

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in special session on Monday, August 6, 2007, in the Commissioners’ room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center, with the following members present:  Commissioners Arnesen, Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel, Bredeson and Ken Moorman.  Also present was County Auditor John W Hoscheid.  Chair Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 7:25 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance.  Chair Todd Beckel laid the ground rules for the upcoming budget, these meetings are to be informational and no board action will be taken until all budgets are presented.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the agenda for the special meeting today with additions.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

The Commissioners acknowledged and discussed the receipt of the RFP’s for Human Resource Director. They will review these again at a later date.

County Recorder, Sue Ney met with the board to discuss County Recorder compliance recording requirements per MN Statutes 357.182.  The board acknowledged the receipt of her report showing her status of being 100% in compliance within 11 days for all documents for the previous year.

Meeting with the board to discuss budgets and salaries was Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen.

Commissioner Bredeson excused himself from the meeting at 11:00 a.m.

Motion by Commissioner Moorman to go into closed session for union negotiation discussion.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

The meeting was called in closed session at 12:00 p.m.  Present were Commissioners Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel and Moorman.  Discussion was had regarding union negotiations.

Chair Todd Beckel adjourned the closed session at 1:05 p.m.

Motion by Commissioner Moorman to re-open the special meeting.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Chair Todd Beckel re-opened the special meeting at 1:06 p.m.

There being no further business before the Board, Chair Todd Beckel declared the meeting in recess at 1:10 p.m.

Attest:                                                  Approved:        August 14, 2007 

______________________________        ___________________________________

John W Hoscheid                                             Todd Beckel

County Auditor                                     Chair of the County Board

Special County Board Meeting

August 7, 2007

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in special session on Tuesday, August 7, 2007, in the Commissioners’ room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center, with the following members present:  Commissioners Arnesen, Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel, Bredeson and Moorman.  Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, MIS Director Brent Birkeland, Public Works Director Bruce Hasbargen and Land & Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund.  Chair Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 7:10 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance.  Chair Todd Beckel laid the ground rules for the upcoming budget, these meetings are to be informational and no board action will be taken until all budgets are presented.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the agenda for the special meeting today with additions.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

The Technology Committee (Commissioners Todd and Patty Beckel, Brent Birkeland, Josh Stromlund, Bruce Hasbargen and John W Hoscheid) met with the board and discussed setting up a designated account for technology expenditures.  The committee recommended an initial $50,000, based on a cost schedule of upcoming and future expenditures presented by Brent Birkeland,

The Board, by consensus, approved the designated technology account starting January 1, 2008, in the amount of $50,000.  In addition; the board approved all capital expenditures, approved by the County Board in the revenue funds, will be added to the technology fund and taken out of the respective budgets.  The board also stated that additional funding would be determined by the County Board and the Technology Committee at a later date.

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board and requested changes to his budget.  It was the consensus of the board to accept these changes.

County Sheriff, Dallas Block met with the board and reviewed the E911 grant and budget.  The County Board discussed the possibility of alternatives for dispatch funding through the grant.  The County Board requested the County Auditor, John W Hoscheid to adjust the E911 budget and to reflect the increase in revenue with expenditures and bring back recommendations to the next board meeting.

County Sheriff, Dallas Block also discussed with the board his need for an administrative assistant.

Public Works Director Bruce Hasbargen, Bill Sindelir, Jeff Pelland, Marti Carlson and Ed Spires Solid Waste Supervisor met with the board and recommended step increases for their various staff.  Chair Todd Beckel acknowledged and thanked them for the recommendations and stated that the County Board will advise them of their decision at a later date.

The County Board discussed salaries and a system to determine salary increases for both elected officials and department heads.  They also discussed a system for determining requests from department heads for performance raises for their staff. 

The County Board requested the County Auditor, John W Hoscheid to finalize all budgets and salaries and present them at the NWA county board meeting on August 21, 2007.  The County Board also requested the County Auditor to set aside a reserve of $30,000 for a building fund starting January 1, 2008.

There being no further business before the Board, Chair Todd Beckel declared the meeting in recess at 1:10 p.m.

Attest:                                                                        Approved:  August 14, 2007

______________________________            ___________________________________

John W Hoscheid                                         Todd Beckel

County Auditor                                             Chair of the County Board

Special County Board Meeting

August 13, 2007

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in special session on Monday, August 13, 2007, in the Commissioners’ room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center, with the following members present:  Commissioners Arnesen, Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel, Bredeson and Moorman.  Also present was County Auditor John W Hoscheid.  Chair Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance.  Chair Todd Beckel laid the ground rules for the upcoming budget, these meetings are to be informational and no board action will be taken until all budgets are presented.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the agenda for the special meeting today, with additions.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

The County Board discussed the 2008 budget regarding staff employees and how to structure step increases for 2008.  Various options were discussed; with the consensus of the board to formalize this at the NWA Board meeting, August 21, 2007.

The Department Heads met with the board at 8:30 a.m.  The County Board Chair, Todd Beckel shared with the County Department Heads the 2008 salary adjustments.  A formal motion will be made at a later date. 

The Department Heads requested an update from the County Board on the search for a County Attorney and Human Resource Director.  The County Board shared their opinions regarding their search and will continue to identify potential candidates.

Chair Todd Beckel recessed the meeting at 10:00 a.m. as the union committee met with the union representatives for discussion. 

Chair Todd Beckel re-opened the special meeting at 11:30 a.m.

The County Board continued the discussion on options for staff employee steps.

There being no further business before the Board, Chair Todd Beckel declared the meeting in recess at 12:45 p.m.

Attest:                                                              Approved:  August 28, 2007

______________________________                    ___________________________________

John W Hoscheid                                             Todd Beckel

County Auditor                                     Chair of the County Board

Commissioner Proceedings

August 14, 2007

The Lake of the Woods County Board met in regular session on Tuesday, August 14, 2007, in the Commissioners’ Room in the Lake of the Woods County Government Center with the following members present:  Commissioners Bredeson, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Arnesen and Moorman.  Also present were County Auditor John W. Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, Penny Mio Hirst and John Oren. Chairman Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance. 

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the agenda with the following addendum items: Travel for Josh Stromlund to the Minnesota Association of Planning and Zoning Administrators Annual Conference in Alexandria on October 3-5, 2007, Wayne Bendickson to PACE Course in Willmar on August 27-30, 2007, JOBZ letter. Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Brent Birkeland to Alexandria on September 5-7 for MACO Counties Conference; Amy Ballard to Duluth on August 20-22 for Aging Conference and to St. Cloud on September 26-28 for Rule 25 Assessor Training; Travel for Cindy Kroeger and Rita Krause to Brainerd on October 7-10 for Child Support Workshops; Janet Rudd, Dale Boretski and Darren Olson to Bemidji on October 3 for MN Department of Public Safety Seminar, Josh Stromlund to the MN Association of Planning and Zoning Administrators Annual Conference in Alexandria on October 3-5, 2007 and Wayne Bendickson to PACE Course in Willmar on August 27-30.

Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the minutes of July 24, 30 & 31 and August 6 & 7, 2007 minutes. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Social Services Financial Officer, Robyn Sonstegard met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the claims against the county as follows:

Commissioners’ Warrants       $51,885.28

Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Rita Krause, Child Support Officer met with the board and reviewed the 2006 Child Support Funding and Collections and informed the board that Governor Pawlenty proclaimed August as Child Support Awareness Month..

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to authorize Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler to advertise and hire a Social Worker at Grade 12. Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval of claims, rescinding motion from July 24, 2007 meeting for Government Center North Building, approval for closing of Motor Vehicle/DL Station on October 3, 2007 for Fall Seminar and approval for Public Information Request Form.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                                Revenue                      $          64,817.25

                                                Road & Bridge           $          76,438.75

                                                County Development  $          25,200.00 

                                                Solid Waste                 $          25,463.71

                                                                                              191,919.71

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

WARRANTS APPROVED ON  8/15/2007 FOR PAYMENT  8/17/2007

       AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME                                                   AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME

          412.58 AMERI PRIDE LINEN & APPAREL SE                     2045.66 ANDY’S GARAGE, INC.

          568.37 AUTO VALUE                                                         25000.00 BAUDETTE-LOW AIRPORT

        1962.00 BREEZY POINT RESORT                                         308.21 CANON FINANCIAL SERVICES

        6555.50 MARK CHAPMAN                                                   11219.18 CO-OP SERVICES, INC.

      31519.78 CONTECH CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS             335.82 DIRECT SAFETY COMPANY

      10587.84 DLT SOLUTIONS, INC                                            4195.60 ESRI

          342.69 FORESTRY SUPPLIERS, INC                                   340.17 GEROY’S BUILDING CENTER

        1350.00 LEE HANCOCK                                                          529.04 HOLTE IMPLEMENT, INC

        3970.39 HOWARD’S OIL COMPANY                                      447.44 LAKE OF THE WOODS FOODS

        1087.94 LAKE ROAD DIESEL INC                                          422.81 LAKES GAS CO.

          455.00 LEROY LAVALLA                                                     4043.51 LOW HIGHWAY DEPT

        1064.00 LOW TRANSFER INC                                           11466.00 MAR-KIT LANDFILL

        1090.55 MARVIN HOME CENTER                                        1808.10 JIMMY MCCOURT

          400.00 M.D. MCGEE MD,PA                                                  436.50 SCOTT MCKAY

          463.50 METRO FORMS, INC                                              2761.77 MN COUNTIES COMPUTER CO-OP

          568.75 MN STATE AUDITOR’S                                           1245.87 JEROME MOLINE

        5355.02 LAW MOREN                                                           1520.00 NORTHERN SERVICES (DBA)

          612.50 NORTHWEST ANGLE&ISLAND FREIGHT            2348.25 PEART & ASSOCIATES, INC

          502.19 POWERPLAN                                                           2742.88 R & Q TRUCKING, INC

        1200.00 RAMSEY COUNTY MEDICAL EXAMINER              4000.00 RESERVE ACCOUNT

          414.17 ROAD MACHINERY & SUPPLIES CO                    5218.50 ROLYAN BUOYS

          639.94 RODERICK RONE JR                                             1000.00 ROSEAU COUNTY SHERIFF

        3767.70 DONALD SALVERDA & ASSOCIATES                   1750.00 SJOBERG’S INC

          369.00 SOFTREE TECHNICAL SYSTEMS INC                  3337.10 STRATA CORP, INC

          604.93 DAVID THOMAS                                                        546.31 TONY DORN, INC.

      12813.00 VANGUARD APPRAISALS, INC                              1816.25 WALKER PIPE & SUPPLY

        2949.71 WAYNE’S BODY SHOP-DBA                                    625.00 WIDSETH SMITH NOLTING&ASST INC

        1887.99 ZIEGLER, INC

53 PAYMENTS LESS THAN  $300       6,894.70

FINAL TOTAL    $191,919.71

Further moved to authorize the payment of auditor’s warrants as follows:

                                                July 24, 2007               $1,055,208.22

                                                July 31, 2007               $     68,304.72

                                                August 7 2007                        $    335,180.17

                                                August 8, 2007           $      49,622.68           

Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to rescind the following motion from July 24, 2007 board meeting due to contractor error in bid. “Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to accept the bid of JD’s United States Seamless Inc. for option 2 of the proposal for $24,120.00 for Marvin’s Infinity windows with the funding from the Social Services reserves.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.” Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Moorman to authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to close the Motor Vehicle/DL Station on October 3, 2007 for staff to attend the Department of Public Safety 2007 Fall Seminar according to Minnesota Deputy Registrar Rule 7406.500, subpart 2a and 2b.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the policy for the “Public Information Request Form” as presented.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Commissioner Bredeson informed the board that North West Community Action has a program available called “Community Seconds” in which counties and cities can participate with income guidelines to borrow closing cost to individuals for mortgages.  The consensus of the board was to have Commissioner Bredeson look into this program.

The meeting was called to recess at 9:53 a.m. and reconvened at 10:00 a.m. as follows:

Joyce Palm and Charlene McGraw, representing Lake of the Woods Alumni Association met with the board requesting financial support for $2,500 for the purpose of the development of a Web Site and three years of Web Site Maintenance. The board informed them that funding would be determined soon.

Tim Flathers from the Headwaters Regional Development Commission  met with the board to discuss a proposal for source of funding in assisting with amendments of Lake of the Woods  Zoning Ordinance(incorporating with the Rainy Rapid River Ordinance), amending the sub-division standards to be in compliance with the State Standards.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson that Lake of the Woods County Commissioners requests that Headwaters Regional Development Commission  proceed with the pre- application to Northwest Minnesota Foundation for $12,000 and the HRDC Successful Community Challenge Grant for $6,000 for assistants in funding the amendments of the  Lake of the Woods County Ordinances  and authorize Chairman Todd Beckel to sign.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

County Recorder Sue Ney met with the board to discuss waiver of execution fee of Passports for county employees and to present the Final Plat of Rivard’s River Acres.

Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the County Recorder, acting as the duly appointed Passport Acceptance Agent for Lake of the Woods County, to waive the portion of the passport fee that is identified as the “execution fee” for all county employees; all other cost incurred by the employee in order to obtain a passport are solely the employee’s responsibility. Seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried. 

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the Final Plat of RIVARDS RIVER ACRES and authorize the Chairman and County Auditor to sign.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

County Surveyor, Donn Rasmussen met with the board to discuss the 2008 Surveyor’s Budget.  Donn explained that the budgets have remained the same for several years, while the costs for doing business have increased. He felt it seemed reasonable and fair that there should be an increase.

The meeting was called to recess at 11:10 a.m. and reconvened at 11:15 a.m. as follows:

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board requesting approval for the County to agree to be the fiscal agent for the Trunk Highway 11 Task Force Committee, approval for allocation of funds to the Trunk Highway 11 Task Force Committee, Resolution of support for deficient bridge replacement and motion to accept Rivard’s River Road.

Motion by Commissioner Moorman for the County to agree that Lake of the Wood County Auditor be the fiscal agent for the Trunk Highway 11 Task Force Committee.  Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve a request for the County to allocate funds for $2,000 with the funding from the unallocated account to the Trunk Highway 11 Task Force Committee.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

The following resolution was proposed by Commissioner Moorman and moved for adoption:

RESOLUTION NO. 07-08-01

Deficient Bridge Replacement

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has reviewed the pertinent data on bridges requiring replacement, rehabilitation, or removal, supplied by local citizenry and local units of government, and

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has identified those bridges that are high priority and that require replacement, rehabilitation, or removal within the next five years;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the following deficient bridges are high priority and Lake of the Woods County intends to replace, rehabilitate, or remove these bridges as soon as possible when funds are available,

Old Bridge NumberRoad Number or NameTotal Project CostTownship or State Bridge FundsFederal FundsLocal or State Aid FundsProposed Construction Year
95304T-167100,00090,000 10,0002011
       

FURTHERMORE, Lake of the Woods County does hereby request authorization to replace, rehabilitate, or remove such bridges; and

FURTHERMORE, Lake of the Woods County does hereby request financial assistance with eligible approach grading and engineering costs on township bridges, as provided by law.

Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was duly carried.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to accept Rivard’s River Road within Rivard’s River Acres Plat in part of Govt. Lots 1 and 2, Section 8, and part of Govt. Lot 1, Section 5, T-160-N, R-30-W, as unorganized township road No. 107, and acknowledge that said road has been constructed to minimum unorganized township road standards.  The road is approximately 1,475 feet in length and shall be classified at maintenance level “C”.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Arrowhead Library System (ALS) Director, Jim Weikum met with the board and discussed that the level of local support required under State Statue for the 2008 library support in Lake of the Woods County would be approximately$33,390. Jim also informed the board that ALS has been licensed and is preparing to provide all libraries and residents with access to a new “downloadable” audio book service that has proved popular in many libraries around the country. 

The meeting was called to recess at 12:00 p.m. and reconvened at 1:05 p.m. as follows:

The meeting was called to recess at 1:06 p.m. and as advertised, the Planning Commission was opened as follows:

Land and Water Planning Director discussed the Initial Plat of Morris Point Estates.  No comments were heard form the floor and no correspondence were received.

The Planning Commissioner was closed at 1:10 p.m. and the regular meeting reconvened as follows:

Mike Hirst, Feedlot Officer met with the board and presented the 2007 Annual Feedlot Report and the 2008 Feedlot Work Plan.

Motion by Commissioner Moorman to approve the Lake of the Woods County annual Feedlot Report for 2007 and authorize the Chairman to sign.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the 2008 Lake of the Woods County Feedlot Work Plan and authorize the Chairman to sign.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

The meeting was called to recess at 1:44 p.m. and reconvened at 1:53 p.m. as follows:

County Sheriff, Dallas Block and Emergency Management Director, Holly House met with the board to discuss the Communications Interoperability Program, which consist of building a regional communication plan to improve interoperability and, ultimately, joint response to emergencies.  Holly also informed the board that the Hazard Mitigation Plan has been approved by the state and now the county needs to hold a public hearing for review of the plan.

Motion by Commissioner Moorman to set September 25, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. as the date and time of the public hearing for the Hazard Mitigation Plan.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Colleen Hoffman from Hoffman, Dale and Swenson, PLLC audit firm met with the board to present the Lake of the Woods County 2006 Audit interview.

The board discussed and revised a letter to Governor Pawlenty in regards to JOBZ for ANI Pharmaceuticals in Lake of the Woods County.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to authorize the Chairman to sign the letter to Governor Pawlenty in regards to JOBZ for ANI Pharmaceutical.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

With no further business before the board, Chairman Todd Beckel called the meeting to recess at 4:25 p.m.

Attest:                                                                         Approved:       August 28, 2007

_________________________                                  _____________________________

John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor                           Todd Beckel, Chairman

Commissioners’ Proceedings

August 21, 2007

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, August 21, 2007, at the Angle Inlet School, Angle Inlet, with the following members present:  Commissioners Arnesen, Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel, Moorman and Bredeson.  Others present on behalf of the County were:  County Land & Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund and County Auditor John W. Hoscheid. Also present were Northwest Angle area residents. Commissioner Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Motion made by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the agenda.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Paul Colson met with the board and discussion was had regarding the NWA Fire levy.  The County Board noted that the NWA Fire levy for 2008 is set at the same rate as 2007.

Commissioner Arnesen gave an update to the NWA area residents on the Arrowhead Library System and the ability to now download books.

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid discussed a request to close the county offices on Christmas Eve for the full day instead of the one-half designated holiday per policy schedule.

Motion made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to close the county offices for the full day on Christmas Eve, Monday, December 24, 2007.  This would give the employees a full day of holiday pay instead of the scheduled one-half holiday pay.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Discussion was had regarding the audit by Hoffman, Dale & Swenson PLLC.  It was agreed to table further discussion regarding: timesheets, CSP checkbook, highway contract change orders and new policies; until the next regular board meeting, Tuesday, August 28, 2007.

Todd Sellers, Executive Director with Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation met with the board.  He gave an update on the progress of the Foundation and the projects that they are currently working on.  He asked for a renewed and updated resolution of support for the Foundation.

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

Lake of the Woods County

Resolution:  Letter of Support for

Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation

Resolution No. 07-08-03

“WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods is the largest lake in Minnesota;

WHEREAS, the health and sustainability of Lake of the Woods is of vital importance to the social and economic sustainable development of Lake of the Woods County;

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has placed Lake of the Woods on its draft list of impaired waters, for proposed listing on the 2008 EPA 303(d) list of impaired waters;

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods is a boundary water as defined in the Boundary Waters Treaty of 1909;

WHEREAS, the 1925 Lake of the Woods Convention and Protocol assigned certain water level related responsibilities to the International Joint Commission; the International Joint Commission at present has no direct responsibilities for Lake of the Woods water quality but since 1965, has monitored and reported to governments on Rainy River water quality, a major tributary and source of water to Lake of the Woods;

WHEREAS, the International Joint Commission has brought concerns over potentially deteriorating water quality in the Lake of the Woods to the attention of the governments of the United States and Canada, and has recommended investigation by the International Joint Commission in cooperation with appropriate agencies, including those from Minnesota, Ontario and Manitoba; and

WHEREAS, the International Joint Commission could help coordinate scientific investigation, monitoring and recommended actions across the multiple jurisdictions around the Lake of the Woods to ensure timely and effective investigation;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS:

THAT, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby supports the Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation in its request that the question of Lake of the Woods water quality be referred to the International Joint Commission for examination and report.

THAT, a copy of this resolution shall be forwarded to the State of Minnesota, the US Department of State and the Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation.”

Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to vote was unanimously carried.

The County Board discussed 2008 salary steps for employees with the final decision to be formulized at the next regular board meeting, Tuesday, August 28, 2007.

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid presented a packet of 2008 Con-Con requests received and distribution spreadsheets. The County Board will take formal action at the next regular board meeting, Tuesday, August 28, 2007.

Land & Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and gave an update on the alternative shoreland management standards with discussion following.

The County Board discussed the MN Department of Corrections/Lake of the Woods County DWI Court grant. 

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

Lake of the Woods County DWI Court

Resolution of Approval by Local Unit of Government

Resolution No. 07-08-02

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County DWI Court is a post-conviction problem-solving approach that uses the power of the court in collaboration with other criminal justice partners and community members (prosecutors, defense counsel, treatment providers, probation officers, law enforcement, educational and vocational experts, community leaders, clergy and others) to closely monitor the defendant’s progress toward sobriety and recovery through ongoing treatment, frequent and random drug testing, regular mandatory check-in court appearances, and the use of a range of immediate sanctions and incentives to foster behavior change to reduce criminal behavior and enhance public safety;

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods Commissioner’s authorizes the Board Chair and the Interim County Attorney to sign the drug court funding application program information sheet;

BE IT RESOLVED, that the County of Lake of the Woods certify that the Lake of the Woods County DWI Court, being located within our jurisdiction, has Lake of the Woods County’s approval to apply for and receive funding from the State Court Administrator’s Office, State of Minnesota.

Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Commissioner Arnesen gave a powerline update.  He shared with the residents a tentative agreement that has been reached for easements and a possible go ahead for the new powerline.  He said there would be additional information coming in the near future.

Brian Sage met with the board regarding the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) permit travel to the Northwest Angle without a passport.  Brian requested a formal letter/resolution of support from the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).  He stated that all comments must be received by August 27, 2007. 

Motion made by Commissioner Arnesen to support the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) permit travel to the Northwest Angle without a passport and to submit a letter/resolution to the Department of Homeland Security.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same was put to a vote and carried unanimously. 

The County Board directed County Auditor, John W Hoscheid to write and submit the letter/resolution of support of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners.

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

Lake of the Woods County 

Resolution of Support of

 Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)

Without a Passport

Resolution No. 07-08-03

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has a community at the Northwest Angle not contiguous by land with the rest of the state of Minnesota, except by passing through a portion of Manitoba;

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has residents and visitors of the Northwest Angle, and believes this community is unique and are therefore extremely concerned about the impact of the proposed WHTI rule on this community;

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Commissioners are concerned that requiring all travelers to this community to possess a passport, passport card, or other federally-issued identification document, as proposed in the Department’s Notice of Proposed Rule, will cause extreme hardship on this community’s economy and the safety and well being of its residents;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the County of Lake of the Woods hereby supports that the final rule have consideration for the land implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative permit travel to the Northwest Angle without a passport;

FURTHERMORE, BE IT RESOLVED, Lake of the Woods County believes that a combination of a driver’s license and birth certificate, which the Department has deemed to be WHTI- compliant during at least the first six months of 2008, should be deemed as acceptable documentation for all travel to and from the Northwest Angle for the foreseeable future.

Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

County Land & Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund updated the Board of Commissioners on the sewer disposal.

County Board Chair Todd Beckel discussed the calcium chloride application and questioned attending residents if it was working.  All residents concurred that it is working excellent.  He then mentioned some funding options; one of which the calcium chloride application cost would be levied through NWA Township Road & Bridge for the upcoming years.

There being no further business before the Board, Chair Todd Beckel called the meeting in recess at 12:35 p.m.    

Attest:                                                                         Approved: August 28 2007

______________________________                             _____________________________

John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor                                  Todd Beckel, Board Chair

Commissioner Proceedings

August 28, 2007

The Lake of the Woods County Board met in regular session on Tuesday, August 28, 2007, in the Commissioners’ Room in the Lake of the Woods County Government Center with the following members present:  Commissioners Bredeson, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Arnesen and Moorman.  Also present were: County Auditor John W. Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, Penny Mio Hirst and John Oren. Chairman Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance. 

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the agenda with the following addendum items: Adult Rehabilitative Mental Health (ARMH), Northwest Radio and Transportation meeting, consideration of Initial Plat of Morris Point, Local Water Plan Challenge Grant, Northwest Minnesota Foundation, Joint Powers Entity, University of MN Extension and County Board Levy. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the consent agenda as follows: travel for Martine Carlson to St. Cloud on August 27-28 to attend the state aid Finance Task Force Committee Meeting and Shelley Phillippe to Duluth on October 2-5 to attend the MFWCAA Annual Conference. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the minutes of August 13, 14 and 21, 2007. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board requesting approval of claims and recertification of the ARMH contract.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the claims against the county as follows:

Commissioners’ Warrants       $17,059.54

Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Moorman to authorize Chairman Todd Beckel to sign the ARMH contract.  Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

The board discussed the Community Support Program (CSP) checking account with Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler.  The board requested that Nancy draft a policy for the usage of the CSP checking account, have the policy reviewed by Hoffman, Dale & Swenson PPLC and bring back to the board for approval.

The board discussed the 2006 Hoffman, Dale & Swenson audit and their concerns regarding county employee time sheets.  The board requested that County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid send a memo to all department heads reminding them that county employees need to sign their time sheets.  The board also discussed having a Change Order Policy for highway contracts.  This was tabled until 11:00 a.m.

Land and Water Planning Director, met with the board requesting approval of the Local Water Plan Challenge Grant and the consideration of the Initial Plat of Morris Point.

Motion by Commissioner Moorman to request the Chairman to sign the 2008 Local Water Plan Challenge Grant in effect, for the time period of July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2009.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the Initial Plat of Morris Point Plat.  Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Baudette Bay Hockey Classic Committee Chair, Jeff Hovde and Coordinator Sara Thompson met with the board requesting funding for the 2008 Baudette Bay Hockey Classic II, which will be held on the Baudette Bay on February 9, 2008.  The board informed them that their request would be considered later in the day.

Depot Preservation Alliance Treasurer, Jeff Poolman met with the board requesting funding for the Depot.  The board informed him that his request would be considered later in the day.

The meeting was called to recess at 10:32 a.m. and reconvened 10:40 a.m. as follows:

Chairman Todd Beckel discussed with the board the 2008 Step increase for county employees.

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

Resolution No. 07-08-05

Employee Step Increases

WHEREAS; Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners has set a three-year plan for employee step increases based on seniority and performance;

WHEREAS; This plan consists of all eligible employees who receive consecutive positive performance reviews; to receive a one step increase over the period of the next 3 years in accordance with the Lake of the Woods County Compensation Plan;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED; that all eligible employees hired before 1990 and who have received a positive performance review, qualify for a step increase January 1, 2008.

Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board to discuss the access on CSAH 8 motion and to discuss the Change Order Policy for highway contracts.

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to accept the Public Works Director’s recommendation to restrict access off County State Aid Highway along Bostic Creek to Off Highway Vehicles use only.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Moorman to direct Public Works Director to provide an over run/under run report for each highway contract.  Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to adopt the following salary schedule, including longevity, for elected officials for the year 2008 as follows: County Auditor $57,288.24; County Recorder $50,036.20; County Treasurer $49,982.20 and County Sheriff $65,314.06. Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to adopt the following salary schedule, including longevity, for appointed department heads for the year 2008 as follows: County Assessor $57,362.63; MIS Director $53,389.54; County Veterans Officer $17,741.00; Land and Water Planning Director $54,908.33; County Emergency Management Director $23,900.00; Public Works Director $92,556.60 and Social Service Director $59,132.63.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to adopt the County Commissioners salary of $15,300 for the year 2008; and to adopt the County Board Chair salary of $16,300 for the year 2008.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve a 3% salary adjustment for all county employees excluding non-elected and elected department heads.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

The meeting was called to recess at 12:05 p.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m. as follows:

Commissioner Todd Beckel reported to the board on the meeting he attended for the Communications Interoperability Program. This group will be preparing a budget and a plan regarding regional communications.

Commissioner Moorman reported on the meeting he attended for the AMC Transportation advisory board.  The AMC board decided that they would endorse the passing of the gas tax increase of 10 cents and a metro city tax of  05 cents.

The meeting was called to recess at 1:10 p.m. and as advertised, the Public Hearing for County Ordinance was opened.  Public that attended were: Dave Marhula and Mike Reed.

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund went through the proposed changes to the Lake of the Woods Zoning Ordinances that the Comprehensive Land Use Planning Board recommended.

The Public Hearing will continue on September 11, 2007.

The regular meeting was called to open session at 2:36 p.m.

Interim County Attorney, Michelle Moren met with the board and gave an update from the Attorney’s office.

The meeting was called to recess at 3:04 p.m. and reconvened at 3:12 p.m. as follows:

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval of claims, approval of liquor license, 2008 health insurance rates, Joint Powers entity needs, and University of MN Extension Committee meeting.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                                Revenue                      $          34,661.20

                                                Road & Bridge           $          13,225.09

                                                County Development  $                758.36  

                                                Solid Waste                 $             1,178.54

                                                                                                 49,823.19

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

WARRANTS APPROVED ON  8/27/2007 FOR PAYMENT  8/31/2007

       AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME                                                   AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME

        1135.00 BORDUN TRUCKING, LTD                                       750.00 BULLBERRY SYSTEMS, INC

        1303.63 DELL MARKETING, LP                                          20822.00 ELK RIVER CHRYSLER, INC

        1330.00 EMERGENCY FILM GROUP                                   1500.00 GM CONSTRUCTION INC

        4880.00 HOFFMAN, DALE, & SWENSON, PLLC                 2578.88 JAKE’S QUALITY TIRE INC

        1172.50 LAVALLA SAND & GRAVEL INC                               463.10 MN DEPT OF TRANSP

          375.00 MN OFFICE OF ENTERPRISE TECHNO                 489.78 NORTHLAND FIRE PROTECTION

          647.04 NW MN HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS                       500.00 RASMUSSEN RENOVATIONS

          650.00 MICHAEL REED                                                         760.15 RODERICK RONE JR

        1225.00 T & M SALES  DBA                                                     355.87 T R JOBBING

          758.36 UNIVERSITY OF MN                                                 515.08 WEST GROUP

        4815.45 WOODY’S SERVICE

24 PAYMENTS LESS THAN  $300       2,796.35

FINAL TOTAL     $49,823.19

Further moved to authorize the payment of auditor’s warrants as follows:

                                                August 14, 2007         1,066.86

                                                August 15, 2007         9,110.45

                                                August 21, 2007       583,087.68

                                                August 21, 2007       125,163.98       

Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the On-Sale, Off-Sale intoxicating Liquor License and Cigarette License for North Point 07, LLC, DBA North Point Bar and Grill from October 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008, contingent upon the approval from the County Sheriff and Interim County Attorney.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

John informed the board of the following correspondence:  Northwest Minnesota Foundation (received the confirmation for them to proceed with the application of funding for the amendments of Lake of the Woods Zoning Ordinance and amending the sub-division standards to be consistent with State Statutes); University of Minnesota Extension (invitation for attending a workshop on “Committees that Work: Common Traps-Creative Solutions”) and Hubbard County levy.

Commissioner Bredeson informed the board that the BWSR tour went well.

Commissioner Bredeson spoke with the board about raising the cap on county contribution for health insurance. 

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to set the 2008 county contribution for family health insurance up to $875.00 per month and the single health insurance up to $525.00 per month.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to offer county employees the following Health Insurance Major Medical plans for 2008: $500 and $1,000 deductible with preventive care and $1,200 and $2,500 Health Savings Account (HSA). For the HSA plans only, any excess county contribution will be deposited directly into the employees health savings account. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

The board approved the following requests for the Con Con distribution for 2008:

Baudette Arena – $15,000, Williams Arena – $5,000, Baudette Bay Hockey Classic – $8,000, Baudette Economic Development/Jt Pwrs – $25,000, Depot Preservation- $2,500, LOW Humane Society – $1,000, LOW School Alumni Foundation – $2,500, Pequana Playhouse – $500, School District 390/Enrichment Program – $2,500, U/M Extension $7,000, Williams Public Library – $500, LOW Sr Fishing – $500 and Take A Kid Fishing – $600.

With no further business before the board, Chairman Todd Beckel called the meeting to recess at 4:30 p.m.

Attest:                                                                         Approved:      

____________________________                            _____________________________

John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor                           Todd Beckel, Chairman