December 28, 2023

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

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Sick Leave Pay, Amend Meeting Minutes.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES WITH AMENDMENT

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of December 12, 2023 with an amendment to the 2024 Board Meeting Dates to change the date from August 13,2024 to August 6, 2024.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $5,513.85; Commissioners Warrants $1,257.52; Commissioners Warrants $35,378.54.

CMH SCREENING GRANT
Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the CMH screening grant contract for mental health screening services.

LIFECARE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CONTRACT

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Lifecare Behavioral Health Contract for Clinical Supervision and for Chair Ed Arnesen to sign the same.

MERIDIAN SERVICES INC CONTRACT

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the contract with Meridian Services Inc, for contracted case management services and for Chair Ed Arnesen to sign the same. 

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $96,033.74; Road & Bridge $5,682.86; County Development $400.00; Natl Resc Enhanc $3,537.50; Solid Waste $122,043.22. 

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 12/28/2023 For Payment 12/29/2023

Vendor Name Amount

Barr Engineering Co. 3,973.00 

Clark Equipment Co Dba Bobcat 104,229.33 

Cps Technology Solutions 3,995.00 

LOW Soil & Water Cons. Dist. 29,235.00 

Motorola Solutions, Inc 33,475.76 

Msop-Mn Sex Offender Prgrm-462 2,921.90 

Rinke-Noonan 3,737.50 

Thortsen Trucking, Inc/Dale 3,496.00 

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50 

 University Of Mn 15,437.69 

 35 Payments less than 2000 20,927.64

Final Total: 227,697.32

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: December 13, 2023 for $65,412.70; December 20, 2023 for $476,387.02; December 27,2023 for $32,585.09; December 27,2023 for $352,951.00; December 26,2023 for (81.79).

Salaries

2024 Elected Officials & Non-Elected Department Heads Salaries

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen to adopt the following County Commissioners salaries schedule and County Board Chair salary schedule for the year 2024; and to adopt a committee meeting per diem of $125.00 for the year 2024.  The motion was seconded by Joe Grund and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Elected Officials – Commissioners:

Commissioners                 $24,000                        

Board Chair                      $25,000         

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof to adopt a Technology Fee of $50.00 per month for County Commissioners for the year 2024. (Technology fee reimbursement for county related phone, internet, computer and copy expenses.)  The motion was seconded by Jon Waibel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and unanimously carried to approve the 2024 Salary Grade Table, with an increase of 2.75% to the table.

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and unanimously carried to adopt the following Elected Officials salary schedule for the year 2024.  

Elected Officials – Department Heads:

Interim County Attorney      $ 103,000.00 (plus mileage)

County Recorder                  $   89,624.96

County Sheriff                      $ 103,710.08

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel to adopt the following Non-Elected Department Heads salary schedule for the year 2024.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Non-Elected – Department Heads:

Assessor                              Alisa Jacobsen            $   81,031.36    

Aud/Treas                        Lorene Hanson       $ 109,893.28

Land/Water                         Josh Stromlund           $   98,302.40

MIS Director                       Peder Hovland            $   96,562.72

Public Works                      Anthony Pirkl                 $ 140,000.00    

Social Service                     Amy Ballard              $   98,281.44

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof to adopt the following Non-Elected Department Heads salary schedule for the year 2024.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Non-Elected – Department Heads:

Human Resources           Savanna Slick                  $   36,019.76          

Veterans Service             Rick Rone                        $   28,998.16

Salary Adjustment, as agreed upon per Union Contract

Motion- Highway Union

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen to adjust all full time Highway Union employees’ salary by a 2.75% general adjustment and by 1 merit step, if applicable (not maxed), effective January 1, 2024.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Salary Adjustment, as agreed upon per Union Contract

Motion- Solid Waste Union

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund to adjust all full time Solid Waste Union employees’ salary by a 2.75% general adjustment and by 1 merit step, if applicable (not maxed), effective January 1, 2024.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

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

Motion- Non-Union

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen to adjust all non-union employees: full time, permanent part time, part time and seasonal (excluding elected and non-elected department heads) salaries by a 2.75% general adjustment and by 1 merit step, if applicable (not maxed), effective January 1, 2024.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Health Insurance/Health Care Savings Plan

Motion (motion made 10/24/2023)

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to set the 2024 county contribution for family health insurance up to $1395 per month and single health insurance up to $1045 per month.  The Public Employees Insurance Program “Advantage Plan” consists of “High”, “Value” and “HSA” plans.  For the HSA plans only, any excess county contribution will be deposited directly into the employee’s health savings account, up to the IRS caps.  

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to set the 2024 county contribution for family health insurance up to $1395 per month for all Highway Union and Solid Waste Union employees.  The International Union of Operating Engineers Local No 49 AFL-CIO health insurance consists of family coverage only.

Motion 

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

Motion to Pay Year End Bills

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the payment of year end bills on December 29, 2023.

IRS Mileage Rate

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the 2024 Standard IRS Mileage rate for business miles at .67 cents per mile.

Resolution for Year End Commitments

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION

YEAR END COMMITMENT OF FUNDS

RESOLUTION NO. 23-12-06

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

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

Transfer of Ditch Funds

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the request to transfer ditch funds to ditch 22 to cover a temporary overage.

Election Polling Places Resolution

Resolution

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

A Resolution Re-stablishing County Precincts and Polling Places

Resolution 23-12-07

WHEREAS, the legislature of the State of Minnesota has been redistricted; and

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes, Section §204B.14, subd. 3(d) requires that precinct boundaries must be reestablished within 60 days of when the legislature has been redistricted or at least 19 weeks before the state primary election, whichever comes first;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, State of Minnesota hereby reestablishes the boundaries of the voting precincts and polling places as follows:

Precinct 1A (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 1A consists of that portion of Baudette Township that lies East of the Winter Road River and East of County Road 75, south of where it intersects the Winter Road River; North of Krull St; and West of the City of Baudette.

Precinct 2A (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 2A consists of that portion of Gudrid Township that lies outside of the City of Baudette.

Precinct 2C (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 2C consists of the Townships of Boone, Rapid River, Swiftwater, Unorganized 158-30, Keil, and Unorganized 157-30.

Precinct 3A (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 3A consists of the Townships of Victory, Rulien, Walhalla, and that portion of Spooner that lies outside of the City of Baudette.

Precinct 3C (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 3C consists of that portion of McDougald Township that lies South of State Trunk Highway 11, not including the City of Williams.

Precinct 3D (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 3D consists of Potamo Township and the Forest Area.

Precicnt 4A (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 4A consists of Wheeler Township.

Precinct 4B (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 4B consists of Wabanica Township and that portion of Baudette Township that lies West of the Winter Road River and West of County Road 75, south of where it intersects the Winter Road River.

Precinct 4C (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 4C consists of that portion of McDougald Township that lies North of State Highway 11.

Precinct 5A (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 5A consists of Myhre, Chilgren, Lakewood, and Prosper Townships.

Precinct 5B (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 5B consists of Zippel Township.

Precinct 5C (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 5C consists of the Northwest Angle and Islands.

Attached to this resolution, for illustrative purposes, is a map showing said precincts and the location of each polling place.

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

Lost Warrant Affidavit

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the application for lost warrant #40114.

Motion to Rescind Painting Quote from Minutes of 11/14/2023

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to rescind the painting quote motion from 11/14/2023 minutes.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the quote from Joy Brandt Painting in the amount of $29,800.00 to paint the interior of the courthouse building. 

LOW Youth Hockey-LG 220 Exempt Permit Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the LOW Youth Hockey-LG 220 Exempt Permit as presented.

Phone Stipend

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve a phone stipend for Appraiser Kristina Roth in the amount of $60.00 per month.

Credit Card Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve a County Credit Card for Appraiser Kristina Roth in the standard amount of $1500.00.

Snowmobile Grant-in-Aid

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the LOW Drifters Grant-in-Aid trail permit.

Resolution to Accept IDC Funds

Resolution

RESOLUTION TO ACCEPT FUNDS FROM IDC

Resolution No. 23-12-08

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

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Commissioners hereby approves the acceptance of two funds from the IDC for the Economic Development Authority.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that in accordance with the terms set forth by the IDC, the funds will be used for Economic Development Purposes

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

ARPA Funds

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

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to pay for the purchase of a 2023 chassis in the amount of $120,702.00 out of ARPA funds.

NWA Postal Service

The board discussed options for the Northwest Angle Postal Service.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set a work session for NWA public work on January 23, 2024 following the regular board meeting.

Sick Leave Policy 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to accept the sick leave policy contingent upon the County Attorney effective January 1, 2024.

County TV

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the contract agreement with KC Tech LLC contingent upon the County Attorney.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof  and carried unanimously to approve the request to pay KC Tech LLC from July 2023 through December 2023 for services rendered.

Northern Tier Propane

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

RESOLUTION APPROVING

NORTHERN TIER PROPANE SYSTEM

Resolution No. 2023-12-05

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Board met on December 28, 2023; and,

WHEREAS, Northern Tier Propane, LLC (an LLC organized and existing through the laws of Minnesota with the sole member being Coop Service, Inc of Baudette) has built and is operating a new propane distribution system to serve residential and commercial customers in unincorporated areas within Baudette, Wabanica and Wheeler townships in Lake of the Woods County; and,

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board finds that addition of a propane distribution system within the County does enhance overall utility service for its customers; and

WHEREAS, Northern Tier Propane has appeared before this Board and has provided assurances that it has obtained all necessary regulatory approvals for construction and operation of the propane distribution system from applicable regulatory agencies including: 1) the Minnesota Office of Pipeline Safety, 2) the Minnesota Department of Transportation, 3) the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and 4) the Lake of the Woods County Highway Department; and

WHEREAS, Northern Tier propane has agreed to provide periodic progress reports to this Board regarding development, construction and operation of the propane distribution system; 

BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County Board approves of the establishment of a propane distribution system within unincorporated areas of Lake of the Woods County by Northern Tier Propane, LLC as described above.

LOW Tourism

Patrick Plunket and Joe Henry discussed the articles of incorporation and bylaws.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the articles of incorporation contingent upon the County Attorney.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the bylaws contingent upon the County Attorney.

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects that included: Fema Funds, Northerly Park, and Ditch 1.

Permission to Bid

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to bid 039-598-072.

ADD TO AGENDA
Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to add Ditch 1 Funds to the agenda.

Ditch 1 Funds

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to use funds from Ditch 1 to hire HDR to create a plan for investigating sloughing and erosion on Ditch 1.

Wheelers Sanitation

Wheelers Point Sewer Board Members and Terms

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

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

Brian Ney                Three Year Term     23 Thru 01/02/2026

Paul Johnson           Three Year Term     23 Thru 01/02/2026

Justin Ferguson       Three Year Term     19 Thru 01/02/2025

Motion

Motion was made by Jon Waibel, seconded by Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to appoint Alan Thompson and Marshall Monk to the Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District Board for a three year term beginning January 2, 2024 thru January 2, 2027. 

EDA Board Member Appointment

Resolution

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

Re-Appointment of Terms of the economic development authority

Resolution 23-12-09

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

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

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

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

Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to recommend appointment

Chamber of Commerce to recommend appointment

Lake of the Woods Tourism to recommend appointment

City of Baudette to recommend appointment

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

Board Member Term Expires Representing

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

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

Jeff Bauers 12/31/2024 IDC

Paul Johnson 12/31/2024 Tourism Board

Ed Arnesen 12/31/2025 County Board District 5

Jon Waibel 12/31/2025 County Board District 4

Brittney Peterson 12/31/2026 Chamber of Commerce

Cody Hasbargen 12/31/2027 County Board District 2 

Joe Grund 12/31/2028 County Board District 3

Whereas the City of Baudette member is to be replaced;

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

Board Member              Term Expires Representing

Steve Theis Jr.       12/31/2029 City of Baudette

James “Buck” Nordlof      12/31/2029 County Board District 1 

MIS

Approval of Logging Quotes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the quotes from SHI, Splunk, and Bytespeed for a total amount of $52,966.00 out of ARPA funds.

Old/New Business

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to remove Home Health Care Task Force from old/new business.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to add Unused Wells to old/new business.

Correspondence

The board congratulated Commissioner Jon Waibel on the birth of his baby girl, and County Engineer Anthony Pirkl on the birth of his baby boy both born recently.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 11:23 a.m.

Attest: January 9, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair Ed Arnesen

December 21, 2023

EMERGENCY MEETING

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in an emergency meeting on December 21, 2023 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

Vice-Chair Cody Hasbargen called the meeting to order at 5:30p.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Cody Hasbargen, Jon Waibel, and Joe Grund. Also Present was Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson, MIS Director Peder Hovland, and Systems Administrator John Butenhoff. Joining by Phone: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Buck Nordlof, and County Attorney Michelle Moren.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the agenda.

CLOSED SESSION

Resolution

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

Resolution Closing Board Meeting

Resolution No. 2023-12-04

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

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

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

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

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

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

Motion

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

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to adjourn the meeting at 6:10p.m.

Attest: December 21, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

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

December 12, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on December 12, 2023 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: County TV Translators, NorthWest Angle Forgiveable Loans, Part-time Deputy.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of November 28, 2023.

Opioid Bylaws

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Opioid Bylaws as presented.

Update Opioid Committee

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried to add a representative from Lake of the Woods School and Lakewood Health to the Opioid Committee. 

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $16,683.65; Commissioners Warrants $2,445.28; Commissioners Warrants $9,005.90.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $69,429.36; Road & Bridge $68,320.93; Joint Ditch $1,000.00; Solid Waste $31,834.19; EDA $2,823.15. 

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 12/12/2023 For Payment 12/15/2023

Vendor Name  Amount

Auto Value Baudette 2,879.43

Baudette/City Of 6,000.00

Braun Intertec Corporation 5,425.00

ByteSpeed, LLC 3,250.00

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 8,185.46

Counties Providing Technology 4,204.00

Farmers Union Oil company 2,344.92

Government Management Group, Inc 3,750.00

Guardian Fleet Safety 21,514.67

Hoffman, Philipp & Martell, PLLC 5,460.00

Howard’s Oil Company 2,051.32

Ironhide Equipment Inc 5,083.70

KGM Contractors Inc 28,520.80

KRIS Engineering Inc 7,559.04

Liberty Tire Recycling, LLC 5,155.70

Mar-Kit Landfill 12,024.50

Moren/Law Offices Of Patrick D 8,725.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc 2,444.00

65 Payments less than 2000 38,830.09

Final Total: 173,407.63

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: November 28, 2023 for $529,270.59; November 28,2023 for ($604.68); November 28, 2023 for ($903.36); November 28, 2023 for ($3,303.49); November 29, 2023 for $813,963.62; December 6, 2023 for $60,313.13.

Con-Con Fund Application Review

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the allocation request from Lake of the Woods Senior Citizens Council, Inc in the amount of $5,000.00 from the Con-Con funds, Lake of the Woods County development year 2024.

Memorandum of Understanding

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the Memorandum of Understanding between the State of Minnesota Ninth Judicial District, Borderland Treatment LKW Court, and Lake of the Woods County in the amount of $16,000.00 for the year 2024.

Donation from The Family of Roger Birkeland

The Lake of the Woods County Board thanks the Roger Birkeland family for their generous donation to veteran transportation services.

Resolution

Pursuant MN DONATION TO LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY

Stat. § 465.03

Resolution No. 23-12-01

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

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Commissioners pursuant MN Stat. § 465.03 (gifts to counties) hereby accepts a donation from the family of Roger Birkeland for Veterans Transportation in the amount of $110.00.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that in accordance with the terms set forth by the family of Roger Birkeland, the donors, the funds will be used to support veterans travel and transportation services.

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

Cigarette License-Midwest Dabbin Cabin

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen to approve the cigarette license for Midwest Dabbin Cabin. Voting for: Commissioners: Jon Waibel, Cody Hasbargen, Buck Nordlof, and Joe Grund. Voting against: Commissioner Ed Arnesen. Motion passed.

Permission to Advertise for Legal Publishing Bids

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof to approve the request to advertise for Legal Publishing Bids.

2024 Board Meeting Dates

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the 2024 County Board Meeting dates as follows:

2024 LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY BOARD MEETING DATES

January

Tuesday, January 2 (Organizational Meeting)             9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, January 9 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, January 23 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

February

Tuesday, February 13 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, February 27 8:15 a.m. Lake Of The Woods School (TBD)

March

Tuesday, March 12 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, March 26 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

April

Tuesday, April 9 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, April 23 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

May

Tuesday, May 14 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, May 28 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

June

Tuesday, June 11 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Monday, June 17 6:00 p.m. Board Of Equalization

Tuesday, June 18 10:00 a.m. NWA

Tuesday, June 25 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

July

Tuesday, July 9 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, July 23 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

August

Tuesday, August 20 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, August 27 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

September

Tuesday, September 10 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, September 24 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

October

Tuesday, October 8 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, October 22 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

November

Tuesday, November 12 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, November 26 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

December

Tuesday, December 17 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, December 17 6:00 p.m. TNT MEETING

Friday, December 27 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MAY BE ATTENDING THE FOLLOWING:

AMC JOINT LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE: February 21-22 in St. Paul

AMC LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE: March 27-March 29 in Nisswa

AMC DISTRICT 2 MEETING: UNKNOWN DATE May or June

AMC POLICY COMMITTEE: September 11-13 in Alexandria

AMC ANNUAL CONFERENCE: December 9-11 in Bloomington

LAKE OF THE WOODS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MEETINGS

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners will be attending these meetings on the 3^rd 

Thursday of the month at 6:00 p.m. in the Commissioners Room at the Government Center

Land Lease Review

The board reviewed a land lease between Lake of the Woods County and Brian Powers for approximately 13 acres of the tillable portion of Parcel #18.2342.000.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to terminate the land lease due to conditions not being met per the agreement and to no longer lease this portion of land moving forward.

Permission to Advertise for Bids

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise for bids for Translators for County TV.

Northwest Angle Forgivable Loan 

Resolution

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

COUNTY OF LAKE OF THE WOODS

RESOLUTION NO. 23-12-02

A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE ESTABLISHING A FORGIVABLE LOAN PROGRAM FOR REMOTE RECREATIONAL FACILITIES IN LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY AND TO CONFIRM ELIGIBILITY

WHEREAS, in May of 2023, the Minnesota Legislature approved HF Bill 2826 (“Amended Special Law”) amending Minn. Stat. Minnesota Session – Laws 2021, 1st Special Session, Chapter 10, Article 1, Section 2, Subd. 2(z) and Article 2, Section 24; and

WHEREAS, on May 23, 2023, the bill was presented to Governor Timothy Walz and was subsequently approved by Governor Walz on May 24, 2023, and filed with the Minnesota Secretary of State on May 24, 2023; and,

WHEREAS, said amended law provides for an extension of a Forgivable Loan Program for Remote Recreation Facilities in Lake of the Woods County, which facilities were negatively impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to the requirements of the Special Law, as amended, Lake of the Woods County has established a loan program to make forgivable loans to eligible remote recreational businesses that experienced a loss in revenue that is greater than 30% during the time period between March 15, 2021  and March 15, 2022, as compared with the pre-Covid-19 pandemic time period.

WHEREAS, the purpose of the Special Law as amended and the manner in which funds are to be administered are as follows:  To provide emergency recovery support to small businesses located in the Northwest Angle of Lake of the Woods County adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Lake of the Woods County Northwest Angle Forgivable Loan Program consists of up to $2.1 million appropriated by the State of Minnesota through grant contract SPAP-23-0094-P-FY24. Funds will help businesses recoup revenue lost by the border closure. The Forgivable Loan Program was made possible by legislation under Minn. Stat. Minnesota Session – Laws 2021, 1st Special Session, Chapter 10, Article 1, Section 2, Subd. 2(z) and Article 2, Section 24, which empowers the State to enter into a grant agreement with Lake of the Woods County. The grant amount shall be up to $2.1 million. Lake of the Woods County has authorized the Lake of the Woods Economic Development Authority (EDA) to administer the program. The EDA is receiving administrative assistance from Headwaters Regional Development Commission; and,

WHEREAS, the Amended Special law provides that loans shall be made before December 30, 2023; and,

WHEREAS, as of December 7, 2023, Lake of the Woods County commenced making applications available to eligible businesses; and, 

WHEREAS, at a regular Board meeting held on December 12, 2023, the Board of Commissioners of Lake of the Woods County reviewed and discussed the Amended Special Law; and, 

WHEREAS, following discussion and by unanimous vote of all of the members of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, the Forgivable Loan Program for businesses at the Northwest Angle was approved for the second year of the Covid-19 shutdown, pursuant to the language passed by the MN Legislature of 2023, and, 

WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners directed chief clerical officer, Lorene Hanson, Lake of the Woods County Auditor-Treasurer to file with the Secretary of State of Minnesota, a certification stating the essential facts necessary to validly approve the Amended Special Law including a copy of the Resolution.

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

1. By unanimous vote, the Board of Commissioners of Lake of the Woods County agrees to administer the forgivable loan program for the businesses of the Northwest Angle according to the provisions of the 2023 legislation. 

2. The chief clerical officer of Lake of the Woods County, Lorene Hanson, Lake of the Woods County Auditor-Treasurer shall forthwith file a certificate with the Minnesota Secretary of State stating the essential facts necessary to confirm County approval of said Amended Special Law. 

3. Eligibility for the forgivable loans shall be based on an eligible business’s pre-Covid-19 fiscal year gross receipts.

4. Lake of the Woods County shall make loans to eligible businesses no later than December 30, 2023. Loans shall be forgiven for eligible businesses if the business remains in operation for at least one year after the date of the loan. 

5. Lake of the Woods County shall provide a report to the legislative committees with jurisdiction over economic development policy and finance on the loans provided to eligible businesses under the special law as amended.

Adopted by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota this 12^th day of December 2023. 

Land & Water

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit Application #23-19CU by Leach and Associates, LLC

Tract in Government Lot 2 of Section Thirty-four (34), Township One Hundred Sixty-eight (168) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West- Parcel #03.34.24.040. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to move more than 10 cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods to repair shoreline damage that occurred during the 2022 high water event. Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following Conditional Use Permit/Findings of Fact #23-19CU by Leach and Associates, LLC to move more than 10 cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods to repair shoreline damage that occurred during the 2022 high water event with the following conditions:

1. CUP also covers any future maintenance.
2. Follow DNR guidelines for rock rip rap.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Leach and Associates, LLC Date:  December 12, 2023

Location/Legal Description:  Tract in Government Lot 2 of Section Thirty-four (34), Township One Hundred Sixty-eight (168) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West – Parcel ID# 03.34.24.040

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to move more than 10 cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods to repair shoreline damage that occurred during the 2022 high water event.

1)  Is the project proposal consistent with the Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Land Use Plan? YES (X) NO (  )  N/A (  )
Why or why not? Shoreline protection.

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

3. Is the project proposal consistent with the goal of preventing and controlling water pollution, including sedimentation and nutrient loading?                        YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )
   Why or why not? Shoreline protection.

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

5. Is the project proposal’s site location reasonable in relation to any floodplain and/or floodway of rivers or tributaries? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )
   Why or why not? Lakeshore.

6. Has the erosion potential of the site based upon the degree and direction of slope, soil type and existing vegetative cover been adequately addressed for the project proposal? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )
   Why or why not? Project is to prevent further erosion from occurring.

7. Is the site in harmony with existing and proposed access roads?     YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)
   Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

8. Is the project proposal compatible with adjacent land uses? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )
   Why or why not? Residential.

9)  Does the project proposal have a reasonable need to be in a shoreland location? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )
Why or why not? Lake of the Woods.

10. Is the amount of liquid waste to be generated reasonable and the proposed sewage disposal system adequate to accommodate the project proposal? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)
    Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

11. Will the visibility of structures and other facilities as viewed from public waters comply with Section 901 of the Zoning Ordinance?         YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)
    Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________
12. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)
    Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

13. Are the affected public waters suited to and able to safely accommodate the types, uses, and numbers of watercraft that the project proposal will generate? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)
    Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

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

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

1. The Conditional Use Permit covers any future maintenance.
2. The applicant is to follow the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources installation guidelines for rock rip rap.

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

December 12, 2023 _____________________________________

Date Ed Arnesen

        Chair, County Board

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

Consideration of Interim Use Permit Application #23-011U by Tracy and Sandra Pogue

Lot 1, Block 3, River Oaks Plat, Section One (1), Township One-hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West- Parcel ID#25.52.03.010. Applicant is requesting an Interim Use Permit as required by Section 1106 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Development Zoning District (R1). Johnson Creek is a tributary river segment.

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following Interim Use Permit/Findings of Fact #23-01IU by Tracy and Sandra Pogue to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Development Zoning District (R1) with the following conditions:

1. The interim use permit terminates five (5) years from the date of approval or upon sale or transfer of the property, whichever occurs first.
2. The maximum occupancy is limited to eight (8) individuals as per the submitted application.
3. The established quiet hours are from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am as per the submitted application.
4. No on-street parking is allowed.
5. If applicable, the applicant must meet the Minnesota Department of Health requirements.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Short-Term Vacation Rental Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Tracy and Sandra Pogue Date:  December 12, 2023

Location/Legal Description:  Lot 1, Block 3, River Oaks Plat

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

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

Explain?  The project proposal is located within the Growth Corridor.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

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

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

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

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

Explain?  Property has access to Oak Harbor Drive Northwest.

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

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

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  As per the submitted application.

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

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

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

Explain?  The maximum number of occupants is limited to eight (8) people as per the submitted application.

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

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

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

Explain?  As per the submitted application, the quiet hours are 10:00 pm to 6:00 am.

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

Explain?  See submitted application.

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

Explain?  See submitted application.

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

Explain?  See submitted application.

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

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

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

YES (  )  NO (X)  N/A (  )

Explain?  No fencing and/or screen is warranted.

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

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

1. The interim use permit terminates five (5) years from the date of approval or upon sale or transfer of the property, whichever occurs first.
2. The maximum occupancy is limited to eight (8) individuals as per the submitted application.
3. The established quiet hours are from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am as per the submitted application.
4. No on-street parking is allowed.
5. If applicable, the applicant must meet the Minnesota Department of Health requirements.

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

December 12, 2023 _____________________________________

Date Ed Arnesen

        Chair, County Board

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

Mowing of County Property

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund discussed property located in Section 21, Township 159, Range 30 (Rapid River Township). No action was taken at this time.

Buffer Law Compliance

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund informed the board that an Administrative Penalty Order will be sent out to several landowners that are out of compliance.

Human Resources

Permission to Hire Appraiser

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the request to hire Kristina Roth as an Appraiser in the Assessor’s Office at Grade 12, Step 1, $23.47 per hour at 280 points effective December 18, 2023.

Law Enforcement Labor Services Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the 2024 Law Enforcement Labor Services Contract effective January 1, 2024.

Part-time Deputy Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to increase hours for on call Part-time Deputy Jon Foss to Permanent Part-time Deputy Sheriff at 30 hours per week effective January 1, 2024.

Ditch Authority

Review 2024 Ditch Assessments

Motion

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

The Ditch Authority reviewed the proposed 2024 Ditch assessments. 

Motion

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

Public Works

Updates

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

Final Payment SAP 039-608-026

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the final payment of SAP 039-608-026 for KGM Contractors, Inc. of Angora, MN in the total amount of $4,466,680.39 and hereby authorize final payment of $447,802.27.

County Road Access Discussion

Yulia Bogdanova and Alex Butler came to the board to discuss issues their family is having accessing a road to their property. They would like to come to a peaceful solution with their neighbors. It was the consensus of the board to move forward in prescribing the road access, inform the other parties, and bring back to the board when everything is ready for final motions.

Recess

The Meeting was called to recess at 11:05 a.m. and reconvened at 6:00 p.m.

Truth In Taxation Meeting

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the Public Hearing for Truth In Taxation meeting at 6:00p.m. Members present, Commissioners Joe Grund, Buck Nordlof, Jon Waibel, and Ed Arnesen. Others present, County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Gloriann Fischer, Jim Frohreich, Steve Plovie, Jon Starren, and Julie Starren.

County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson reviewed the 2024 Proposed County Levy at the Truth In Taxation Public Hearing. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the public hearing and open the regular meeting at 6:45 p.m.

Resolution

Resolution Adopting

Certified 2024 Budget and Tax Levy

Resolution   2023-12-03

The following Resolution was proposed and moved for adoption by Commissioner Joe Grund:

WHEREAS, the Proposed County Budget for the year 2024 has been reviewed by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners; and 

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the following Proposed Budget and Tax Levy is hereby adopted for the Lake of the Woods County for 2024:

Revenue Fund $ 2,116,712

Road & Bridge Fund $    500,000

Social Services Fund         $    603,935

Economic Development Authority Fund   $      60,000

2024 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy        $ 3,280,647

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the following amounts be levied against the unorganized townships of Lake of the Woods County for 2024:

Twp Road & Bridge $   476,470*

Twp Fire – Baudette $     26,750

Twp Fire – Williams $     17,101

Twp Fire – NW Angle $       6,500

Total $   526,821

2024

* $476,470 for Township Road & Bridge, includes $5,000 Blue Blades and $12,765 Admin of Township Roads (458,705+5,000+12,765=476,470)  

A public meeting to discuss the 2024 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy was held on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Lake of the Woods County Commissioners’ Room. 

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

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 6:50p.m.

Attest: December 28, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair Ed Arnesen

December 29, 2022

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

Call To Order

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

Approval of Agenda

Motion

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

Approval of Minutes

Motion

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

Social Services

Claims

Motion

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

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

Motion

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

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

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

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

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

Vendor Name Amount

Accurate HD Ltd. 2,439.00

American Solutions For Business 2,237.33

Deputy Registrar No.75 10,162.65

Freeberg & Grund, Inc 4,000.00

GM Construction Inc 6,454.94

Hiller Commercial Floors 86,210.30

Lake Country Chev 45,031.88

LOW Highway Dept 5,140.84

Mn Counties Computer Co-Op 2,558.80

North East Technical Service,Inc 3,535.00

Outdoors Again 2,865.31

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

University Of Mn 9,618.63

West Central Regional Juvenile Center 4,950.00

49 Payments less than 2000 29,394.40

Final Total: 220,867.58

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

Salaries

2023 Elected Officials & Non-Elected Department Heads Salaries

Motion 

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

Elected Officials – Commissioners:

Commissioners $23,000                        

Board Chair $24,000         

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

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

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

Elected Officials – Department Heads:

County Attorney $120,556.80

County Recorder $85,009.60

County Sheriff  $98,404.80

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

Non-Elected – Department Heads:

Assessor  Alisa Jacobsen  $76,606.40     

Aud/Treas   Lorene Hanson $104,145.60

Land/Water  Josh Stromlund $93,184.00

MIS Director  Peder Hovland $91,603.20

Public Works Anthony Pirkl $110,115.20     

Social Service  Amy Ballard $93,163.20

EDA Director Ryan Zemek $52,540.80

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

Non-Elected – Department Heads:

Human Resources Savanna Slick $34,132.80          

Veterans Service  Rick Rone  $27,996.80

Salary Adjustment, as agreed upon per Union Contract

Motion- Highway Union

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

Salary Adjustment, as agreed upon per Union Contract

Motion- Solid Waste Union

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

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

Motion- Non-Union

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

Health Insurance/Health Care Savings Plan

Motion (motion made 10/25/2022)

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

Motion

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

Motion 

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

Motion to Pay Year End Bills

Motion

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

Resolution for Year End Commitments

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION

YEAR END COMMITMENT OF FUNDS

RESOLUTION NO. 22-12-08

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

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

Transfer of Funds to Ditch Funds

Motion

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

Economic Development Authority

The Board Discussed the appointment of the EDA Board

Resolution

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

Re-Appointment of Terms of the economic development authority

Resolution 22-12-09

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

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

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

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

Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to recommend appointment

Chamber of Commerce to recommend appointment

Lake of the Woods Tourism to recommend appointment

City of Baudette to recommend appointment

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

Board Member Term Expires Representing

Brock Stebakken 12/31/2023 City of Baudette

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

Jeff Bauers 12/31/2024 IDC

Paul Johnson 12/31/2024 Tourism Board

Ed Arnesen 12/31/2025 County Board District 5

Jon Waibel 12/31/2025 County Board District 4

Brittney Peterson 12/31/2026 Chamber of Commerce

Cody Hasbargen 12/31/2027 County Board District 2 

Joe Grund 12/31/2022 County Board District 3

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

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

Board Member Term Expires Representing

Joe Grund 12/31/2028 County Board District 3

Wheelers Sanitation

Wheelers Point Sewer Board Members and Terms

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

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

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

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

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

Motion

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

Public Works

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

Cliffs Review

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

Land & Water

Set Hearing Date: Wetland Appeal

Motion

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

Correspondence

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

Old/New Business

The board reviewed old/new business on the agenda. 

Adjourn

Motion

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

Attest: January 10, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

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

 December 13,2022

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, December 13, 2022 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

Call To Order

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

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: MCIT Correspondence, Greater Minnesota Correspondence, AMC Resolution. Remove: 2022 EMPG Grant.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the minutes from November 29, 2022.

Social Services

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $16,757.30; Commissioners Warrants $3,650.15; Commissioners Warrants $14,640.36.

Meridian Services, Inc. Purchase of Services

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the renewal of the purchase of services agreement between Lake of the Woods County, by and through its local social services agency, and Meridian Services, Inc. and for Chair Buck Nordlof and Social Services Director Amy Ballard to sign the same.

Department of Human Services-Children’s Mental Health Screening Agent

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Children’s Mental Health Screening Grant renewal and for Social Services Director Amy Ballard to sign the same.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously with Commissioner Joe Grund abstaining to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $49,064.86; Road & Bridge $146,568.69; County Development $1,875.00; Joint Ditch $4,360.00; Solid Waste $28,525.55; EDA $1,701.31. 

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 12/13/2022 For Payment 12/16/2022

Vendor Name Amount

Auto Value Baudette 2,718.82

Business Essentials 3,109.00

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 21,102.02

Compass Minerals America 10,024.95

Counties Providing Technology 4,086.00

Extreme Duty Ironworks 3,146.00

Hoffman, Philipp & Martell, PLLC 5,585.00

Howard’s Oil Company 6,999.14

Integris LLC 2,041.01

LOW Highway Dept 6,748.75

Mar-Kit Landfill 13,472.00

Marco Technologies LLC 6,886.01

Mark Sand & Gravel Co. 96,250.00

North Leaf Auto Body 8,594.18

Powerplan 4,176.69

R & Q Trucking, Inc 3,055.00

Royal Tire Inc 2,600.82

WIDSETH 3,125.00

45 2000 Payments less than 28,375.02

Final Total: 232,095.41

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: November 29, 2022 for $150,211.00, November 30,2022 for $814,696.49, November 30, 2022 for $10,322.36, December 5, 2022 for $821,985.04, December 5, 2022 for ($10,322.36), December 7, 2022 for $14,771.37.

Permission to Advertise for Legal Publishing Bids

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve permission to advertise for Legal Publishing Bids for 2023.

2023 Meeting Dates

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously, by roll call, to approve the following 2023 County Board Meeting Dates:

2023 LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY BOARD MEETING DATES

January

Tuesday, January 3 (Organizational Meeting) 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, January 10 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, January 24 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

February

Tuesday, February 14 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, February 28 8:15 a.m. Lake Of The Woods School (TBD)

March

Tuesday, March 14 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, March 28 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

April

Tuesday, April 11 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, April 25 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

May

Tuesday, May 9 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, May 23 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

June

Tuesday, June 6 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Monday, June 12 6:00 p.m. Board Of Equalization

Tuesday, June 13 10:00 a.m. NWA

Tuesday, June 27 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

July

Tuesday, July 11 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, July 25 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

August

Tuesday, August 8 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, August 22 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

September

Tuesday, September 12 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, September 26 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

October

Tuesday, October 10 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, October 24 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

November

Tuesday, November 14 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, November 28       9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

December

Tuesday, December 12 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, December 12 6:00 p.m. TNT MEETING

Thursday, December 28 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MAY BE ATTENDING THE FOLLOWING:

AMC JOINT LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE: February 22-23 in St. Paul

AMC LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE: March 29-March 31 in Nisswa

AMC DISTRICT 2 MEETING: UNKNOWN DATE May or June

AMC POLICY COMMITTEE: September 13-15 in Alexandria

AMC ANNUAL CONFERENCE: December 4-6 in Bloomington

LAKE OF THE WOODS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MEETINGS

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners will be attending these meetings on the 1^st 

Thursday of the month at 6:00 p.m. in the Commissioners Room at the Government Center

Election Polling Places Resolution

Resolution

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

A Resolution Establishing County Precincts and Polling Places

Resolution 22-12-01

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes, Section §204B16, Subdivision 1 requires that by December 31^st of each year, the County must designate by resolution a polling place for each election precinct; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, State of Minnesota hereby establishes polling places of the following County precincts: Baudette City Hall – Precincts 1B and 2B; Lake of the Woods County Government Center – All Mail Precincts including: 1A, 2A, 2C, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 4A, 4B, 4C, 5A, 5B, 5C and 5D.  

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

Petition for Road Vacation

Resolution

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

A RESOLUTION SETTING FORTH INITIAL DESCRIPTIONS AND SETTING HEARING DATE 

Resolution no. 22-12-03

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners were presented a petition at their meeting on the 13th day of December, 2022 requesting the vacation of a road; 

WHEREAS, the petition contained a description of the road, a description of the portion to be vacated, and the names of the owners over which the road passes; 

WHEREAS, Minn. Stat. § 164.07, subd. 2 requires the town board to make an order describing as nearly as practicable the road to be vacated, describing the several tracts of land through which the road passes, and fixing a time and place when and where the town board will meet and act upon the petition; 

NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that: 1. The road proposed to be vacated is described as: Platt of “Pitt” located in Minnesota, Lake of the Woods County, Wabanica Township-161, Section-35, Northwest ¼ or Southwest ¼, Range-32. This does not include the road “Pitt Road NW” which borders on the South side of the Platt of “Pitt”, and the road “Sanborn Road NW” which borders on the East side of the plat. A more specific description may be developed if the petition is granted. 2. The several tracts of land through which the road passes and their owners will be notified and proof of notification will be returned to the board. 

3. The Lake of the Woods County Board will conduct a hearing at 10:00 a.m. on the 10^th day of January, 2023, at the Lake of the Woods County Commissioners room to examine the road, receive public comment, consider the proposed action, and act on the petition.

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

Public Works 

Todd Fadness Retirement

Resolution

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

Recognition of years of service 

Lowell Todd Fadness

Resolution No. 22-12-02

Whereas:  Todd Fadness has served Lake of the Woods County as a Heavy Equipment Operator since June 2, 1982;

Whereas:  Todd will retire from Lake of the Woods County effective December 23, 2022 with more than forty years of service;

Now Therefore, Be it Resolved:  That Lake of the Woods Board of County Commissioners extends its deepest appreciation to Todd for his dedicated service and wishes him well on his retirement.

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

Federal Bridge Project Agreement

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and moved for adoption: 

RESOLUTION

STATE OF MINNESOTA / COMMISSIONER OF TRANSPORTATION for FEDERAL PARTICIPATION IN CONSTRUCTION AGENCY AGREEMENT

Number 1052039

Resolution No. 22-12-04

BE IT RESOLVED, that pursuant to Minnesota Stat. 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, the Lake of the Woods County Board Chair and Auditor/Treasurer are hereby authorized and directed for and on behalf of the Lake of the Woods 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 1052039”, a copy of which said agreement was before the Lake of the Woods County Board and which is made a part hereof by reference.

Solid Waste

The board discussed the upcoming holiday closures. It was the consensus of the board for the landfill to be closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and the following Monday December 26, 2022.

Association of Minnesota Counties

Resolution

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

A RESOLUTION ENDORSING THE EFFORTS OF THE COMMUNITY   SUPERVISION WORK GROUP AND URGING THE LEGISLATURE TO PASS A NEW FUNDING FORMULA AND SIGNIFICANT APPROPRIATION DURING THE 2023    LEGISLATIVE SESSION.

Resolution No. 22-12-05

WHEREAS, community supervision is a fundamental part of the criminal justice system in Minnesota and funding sufficient to ensure effective services is vital to public safety in all communities across the state; and

WHEREAS, community supervision includes services such as probation, supervised release, and intensive supervised release; and

WHEREAS, Minnesota’s counties provide essential community supervision services both as mandated by M.S. Chapter 244.19 and also as delegated by the Department of Corrections under M.S. Chapter 401; and

WHEREAS, when the Legislature decided that community supervision was best delivered through a state-county partnership, it stated a clear intent that the state would provide significant funding to the counties for the operation of local programs; and

WHEREAS, over the past 20 years, Minnesota has become the state with the lowest level of corrections funding in the nation because the Legislature has not upheld its promise to provide adequate state resources to support community supervision; and

WHEREAS, the Legislature’s failure to adequately fund community supervision has increased local property taxes on residents and businesses; and,

WHEREAS, a revised community supervision funding formula is necessary to ensure that all communities in Minnesota have enough state funding to provide a consistent standard for effective, evidence-based community supervision services, regardless of local capacity to pay; and  

WHEREAS, the Association of Minnesota Counties assembled the Community Supervision Work Group including county leaders and experts in community supervision from all three supervision delivery systems to study the needs of community supervision departments statewide and develop a single funding formula that is transparent, needs based, and equitable among county and state supervision providers; and, 

WHEREAS, the Community Supervision Workgroup has taken up its charge to convene stakeholders across the three probation delivery systems to oversee a study to create a unified recommendation for an equitable and adequate funding formula and appropriation; and, 

WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Association of Minnesota Counties that represents the diverse interests of Minnesota’s 87 counties, voted to support a new funding formula that provides counties with the resources needed to keep communities safe; now, therefore, 

BE IT RESOLVED, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners endorses the efforts of the Community Supervision Work Group and urges the Legislature to pass a new funding formula and significant appropriation during the 2023 legislative session. 

Correspondence

Minnesota Counties Intergovernmental Trust (MCIT)

The board reviewed correspondence from MCIT for an award for excellence present to Lake of the Woods County for outstanding experience in workers’ compensation.

Greater Minnesota Regional Parks & Trails Commission

The board reviewed correspondence from Greater Minnesota Regional Parks & Trails Commission and discussed the need to create a Northwest Angle Northerly Park Committee.

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to create the Northwest Angle Northerly Park Committee with the following members: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Joe Grund, County Engineer Anthony Pirkl, Land & Water Planning staff member, Joe Laurin, and member at large for the Northwest Angle.

Ditch Authority

Review 2023 Ditch Assessments

Motion

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

The Ditch Authority reviewed the proposed 2023 Ditch assessments. 

Pay Ditch 23 Bills

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to pay Ditch 23 bill in the amount of $460.00 out of the designated ditch con-con funds.

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

Con-Con Fund Application Review

Lake of the Woods County Development Year 2023

Baudette Arena Assoc-$10,000.00; Williams Arena Assoc-$5000.00; Baudette Chamber-$12,000.00; Friends Against Abuse-$2500.00; LOW Humane Society-$7500.00; Williams Potato Day-$1000.00; Williams Public Library-$800.00; Joint Powers Natural Resources Board-$1000.00; LOW School Trap Team-$2,000.00; LOW Sr Fishing-1500.00; Take a Kid Fishing-$2000.00; Widseth Smith Nolting-$16,000.00; Auditing Fees-$1000.00.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to make allocations to the above organizations from the Con-Con funds, Payable 2023.

Veteran Services

Veteran Services officer Rick Rone gave an update on various topics that included in-service exposure illnesses and volunteer drivers.

Appointment of Veteran Services Officer

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen to re-appoint Rick Rone as Lake of the Woods County Veterans Service Officer from January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2026 pursuant MN Statutes 197.60 Subd. 2.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 11:05a.m. and reconvened at 11:10 a.m.

HRDC 

Regional Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)

Economic Development Planner Antonio Franklin Jr. Met with the board to discuss strategies that strengthen the regional economy and review recommendations for the 2022-2025 CEDS. 

Resolution

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

A Resolution Establishing A Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy

Resolution 22-12-06

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County is recognized by the Economic Development Administration as a redevelopment area with special needs for economic development assistance; and

WHEREAS, the Headwaters Regional Development Commission is an Economic Development District by the Economic Development Administration to provide planning and economic development assistance; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners actively supports and currently participates in the economic development district activities of the Headwaters Regional Development Commission; and

WHEREAS, the Headwaters Regional Development Commission has prepared a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy in cooperation with businesses, communities, and economic development organizations in lieu of a separate county Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners approves of the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy as submitted on this date.

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

Land & Water

Land and Water Director Josh Stromlund and Land Owner Bruce Baumgartner met with the board to discuss the land that was in violation of meeting the conditions of its conditional use permit and to request an extension. Mr. Baumgartner explained that he had difficulty getting someone to the Northwest Angle to complete the work needed to meet those conditions due to the Covid-19 pandemic and then the area flood that occurred.  

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to extend the deadline to meet conditions to July 31, 2023 due to the pandemic restrictions that were previously in place when entering Canada, and the recent flooding event.

Sheriff

Extended Services Warranty on ARMER Radio Console Renewal

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the renewal of the Service agreement with Motorola Solutions for ASTRO 25 Essential Plus Services and Site Management -SOW on the ARMER Radio System.

IAMRESPONDING Fiscal Agent

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office to act as the fiscal agent collecting funds from Williams Fire Department, Baudette Fire Department, and Lake of the Woods Ambulance to pay for the new IAMRESPONDING service that will replace Safealert.

Emergency Management

EOP Sign off & MNWALK

Motion

Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and Commissioner Ed Arnesen met with Emergency Management director Jill Hasbargen Olson on Dec 12^th to review the 2022-2023 County Emergency Operations Plan and MNWALK.  Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund to accept and sign the reviewed County EOP & MNWALK documents and for Chair Buck Nordlof to sign.

Lakewood Health

Approval of Community Health Services Agreement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the Purchase of Service Agreement for Community Health Services between Lake of the Woods County and Lakewood Health Center and for County Board Chair Buck Nordlof and County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 12:10 p.m. and reconvened at 6:00 p.m.

Truth In Taxation Meeting

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the Public Hearing for Truth In Taxation meeting at 6:00p.m. Members present, Commissioners Joe Grund, Buck Nordlof, Cody Hasbargen, Jon Waibel, and Ed Arnesen. Others present, County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson.

County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson reviewed the 2023 Proposed County Levy at the Truth In Taxation Public Hearing. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to close the public hearing and open the regular meeting at 6:40p.m.

Resolution

Resolution Adopting

Certified 2023 Budget and Tax Levy

Resolution   2022-12-07

The following Resolution was proposed and moved for adoption by Commissioner Joe Grund:

WHEREAS, the Proposed County Budget for the year 2023 has been reviewed by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners; and 

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the following Proposed Budget and Tax Levy is hereby adopted for the Lake of the Woods County for 2023:

Revenue Fund $ 2,025,860

Road & Bridge Fund $    449,580

Social Services Fund $    603,935

Economic Development Authority Fund $      60,000

2023 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy $ 3,139,375   

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the following amounts be levied against the unorganized townships of Lake of the Woods County for 2023:

Twp Road & Bridge $   471,470* 

Twp Fire – Baudette $     25,000

Twp Fire – Williams $     16,881

Twp Fire – NW Angle $       6,500

Total $   519,851

2023

* $471,470 for Township Road & Bridge, includes $12,765 Admin of Township Roads (458,705+12,765=471,470)  

A public meeting to discuss the 2023 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy was held on Tuesday, December 13, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. in the Lake of the Woods County Commissioners’ Room. 

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

RECESS

With no further business before the Board, Chairman Buck Nordlof called the meeting to recess at 6:45 p.m. 

Attest: December 29, 2022

______________________________ _________________________________

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