February 14, 2023

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

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

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

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

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

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

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

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

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

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

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

Vendor Name Amount

Andy’s Garage, Inc. 3,079.16

ByteSpeed, LLC 6,250.00

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 20,544.83

Counties Providing Technology 4,204.00

Ferrellgas 6,655.90

Hildi Inc 3,950.00

Howard’s Oil Company 5,227.57

Information Systems Corporation 9,910.00

Integris LLC 3,315.75

Lake of the Woods Electric LLC 4,008.85

Lakeside Fire & Safety Inc 2,684.35

Lavalla Sand & Gravel Inc 57,690.50

LOW Highway Dept 7,585.00

Mar-Kit Landfill 15,700.50

Mark Sand & Gravel Co. 59,202.50

Mn Dept Of Transp 3,559.28

Nw Mn Household Hazardous 7,209.00

Pennington County Sheriff Office 5,180.45

Quadient Finance USA Inc. 3,000.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc 2,444.00

Rainy Lake Oil, Inc 2,284.76

Ziegler, Inc 3,921.05

75 Payments less than 2000 39,815.18

Final Total: 277,422.63

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

2023 Pay Equity

Motion

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

Economic Development Authority

The board discussed the EDA Director vacancy and possible options.

Assessors

Approval of Credit Card Request

Motion

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

Human Resources

Juneteenth

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

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

Motion

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

Permission to Hire Social Worker

Motion

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

Update

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

Public Works

Permission to Purchase Skid Steer Trailers

Motion

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

FEMA Update/Public Access Quotes

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

Public Access

Motion

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

Credit Card Limit Increase

Motion

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

Ditch Authority

Motion

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

JD 28 Discussion

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

Motion

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

JD 28 Repair Quotes

Motion

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

Fairground Solid Waste Fee

Motion

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

Correspondence 

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

Recess

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

Land & Water

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

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

Motion

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

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

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

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

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

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

Why or why not? Safe harbor.

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

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? Material to be deposited on land.

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

Why or why not? Will not change.

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

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? Harbor on a island.

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 (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? Natural vegetation.

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? _______________________________________________________________________

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

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

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

February 14, 2023 _____________________________________

Date Ed Arnesen Chair, County Board

Northwest Community Action-Family Services

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

Legislative Update

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

Recess

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

Public Hearing-Wetlands Appeal

Motion

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

Wetlands Appeal-Robert & Jennifer Audette

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

Motion

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

Wetlands Appeal-Robert & Jennifer Audette

Motion

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

Recess

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

Attest: February 28, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chairman Ed Arnesen

 February 22, 2022

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 22, 2022 in the ITV room at the Lake of the Woods School.

High School Social Studies teacher, Mr. Don Krause

Mr. Don Krause thanked the Commissioners for meeting at the School so his students could attend and participate in the meeting.

Call To Order

Chair Buck Nordlof called the meeting to order at 8:15 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Buck Nordlof, Cody Hasbargen, Jon Waibel, Joe Grund. Also present was County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, and Commissioner Ed Arnesen by phone.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add Tourism and Bonding Bill.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the minutes of February 8, 2022. 

F.A.T

Head Track & Field Coach and Elementary Physical Education teacher Curt Storbeck requested funding for a fully automated timing system for the track team. No action was taken at this time.

Social Services

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

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $1,726.23; Commissioners Warrants $3,298.25; Commissioners Warrants $13,713.28.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $37,735.14; Road & Bridge $18,946.18; County Development $200.00; Solid Waste $25,515.69; EDA $942.85.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/22/2022 For Payment 2/25/2022

Vendor Name Amount

BMC Software Inc 2,583.28

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 11,091.00

Farmers Union Oil Co. 3,535.04

Integris DBA 4,189.34

LaValla Electric DBA/Ned 3,650.00

Mar-Kit Landfill 15,143.00

Northwest Community Action, Inc 10,000.00

Pemberton Law, P.L.L.P. 2,457.50

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

Ziegler, Inc 3,940.16

42 Payments less than 2000 20,482.04

Final Total: 83,339.86

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: February 8,2022 for $427,762.82; February 9,2022 for $157,884.03; February 16,2022 for $20,922.51; and February 18,2022 for $38,537.

Bank Signature Cards

RiverWood Bank Signature Cards – Main

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Connie Nesmith and County Board Chair James (Buck) Nordlof to sign the RiverWood Bank signature card for the main account, investments and the insurance accounts.

RiverWood Bank Signature Cards – Deputy Registrar 75

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Erik Tange, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Connie Nesmith, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Anna Sanchez and Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Chelsea Anderson to sign the RiverWood Bank signature card for the Deputy Registrar 75 account.

RiverWood Bank Signature Cards – Sheriff’s Office

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to authorize Julie Berggren and Jill Hasbargen-Olson to sign the RiverWood Bank signature card for the sheriff’s office.

RiverWood Bank Signature Cards – Social Service Fund

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to authorize Shelley Pepera and Jodi Ferrier to sign the RiverWood Bank signature card for the Social Service Fund.

RiverWood Bank Signature Cards- Over Remittance Fund

Motion

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

MN Department of Administration-State Surplus Property

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to authorize Chair Buck Nordlof, County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Public Works Director Anthony Pirkl, Social Service Director Amy Ballard and County Sheriff Gary Fish to sign the signature card for Federal and/or State Surplus Property.

Economic Development Authority

EDA Director Ryan Zemek introduced himself to the Lake of the Woods students and gave an overview of what the EDA position does in the county. Ryan asked the board for advice on what they would like to do with the remaining amount from the NorthWest Angle forgivable loan. Consensus was made to contact MN Deed first to see what options are available, then contact businesses at the NWA to check for further qualifications, and to look into special legislation that may allow them to use the funds in another way if needed. 

Public Works

Public Works Director Anthony Pirkl discussed the demolition of the Williams school building and estimated costs. A second review of the school may be needed. 

Toward Zero Death

TZD Coordinator Sue Johnson, State Aid Engineer Brian Ketring, and District Engineer JT Anderson met with the board and presented a power point and information on the Towards Zero Death Task Force and the importance of safe driving and wearing seatbelts.

Borderland Treatment Court

Treatment Coordinator Amanda Zortman, and Probation Officer Sara Ubel presented on the process and the purpose of the Borderland Substance Abuse Court. Clyde Boots spoke to the board about how the treatment courts can help lead people living with substance use out of the justice system and into lives of recovery and stability and his own experiences with this program.

Prevention Conference- Substance Abuse

Tammie Doebler, Sandy Peterson, Doris Knutson, and Lake of the Woods students presented to the board their experience and what they learned at a substance abuse prevention conference in Washington, D.C.

Fair Board

Allen Cauble and JP Sweet gave an update on projects and future plans for the county fair. They are requesting donations for the centennial county fair in 2023. No action was taken at this time.

Leaving the Meeting

Commissioner Cody Hasbargen left the meeting at 11:50a.m.

 Recess

The Meeting was called to recess for lunch at 11:50 a.m. and reconvened at 12:50p.m.

Pine to Prairie Task Force

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

DNR Fisheries

Phil Talmage from the DNR gave an update on how they are keeping track of the amount of people on the lake as well as the amount of fish and what kind of fish are being caught and kept. He also discussed current fishing conditions on Lake of the Woods. 

Carp Swamp Addition

Scott Laudenslager from MN DNR, and Emily Paschke met with the board about land at Carp swamp that Emily would like to sell to Pheasants Forever and they would then donate the land to the DNR to add to the wildlife management area. Consensus was made by the board to add this to the March 8,2022 agenda. No further action was taken at this time.

Tourism

The board discussed moving forward with new legislation to move towards a county wide lodging tax, not including the City of Baudette. If passed, they would look at setting new by-laws and re-establishing the tourism board. No action was taken at this time.

Bonding Bill

The board discussed the possibility of using a bonding bill to fund the new Law Enforcement Center and Highway department. No action was taken at this time.

Add to Old/New Business

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to add Centennial to old/new business on the agenda for ongoing discussion.

Recess

With no further business before the Board, Chair Buck Nordlof called the meeting to recess at 3:06p.m.

Attest: March 8, 2022

______________________________ _________________________________

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

Commissioner Proceedings

February 23, 2021

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 in the ITV room at the Lake of the Woods School. 

High School Social Studies teacher, Mr. Don Krause

Mr. Don Krause thanked the Commissioners for meeting at the School so his students could attend and participate in the meeting.

CALL TO ORDER

Chair Joe Grund called the meeting to order at 8:35 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Joe Grund, Cody Hasbargen, Ed Arnesen, Jon Waibel and Buck Nordlof.  Also present was: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Approve Minutes from February 17, 2021, Human Resources/Non-Elected Department Head Review Date, Law Enforcement Center, and Tourism.   

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of February 9, 2021.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of February 17, 2021.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $7,526.27, Commissioners Warrants $2,821.45, Commissioners Warrants $8,345.69.

HUMAN RESOURCES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set the date for non-elected department head reviews for March 16, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. in the Commissioner’s Room at the Lake of the Woods County Government Center.

AUDITOR/TREASURER

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows, with the exception of the claim for vendor 5892 for $628.64: Revenue $38,454.39; Road & Bridge $23,361.25; County Development $200; Joint Ditch $43,719.72; Solid Waste $11,443.96; EDA $905.28.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/23/2021 For Payment 2/26/2021

Vendor Name Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 7,876.91

Code 4 Services,Inc 3,487.78

Counties Providing Technology 3,860.00

Interstate Billing Service Inc 17,548.58

LOW Highway Dept 41,217.80

Quadient Finance USA Inc. 2,000.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc 2,060.00

Roseau County Sheriff 2,585.00

Roseau County Treasurer 2,501.92

Sandpieper Design Inc. 11,800.28

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

36 Payments less than 2000 16,877.83

        Final Total: 118,084.60

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following Auditor warrants: February 10, 2021 for $58,671.23; February 17, 2021 for $309,288.29.

Transfer of CARES ACT Funds

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the transfer of $256,250 from the Revenue fund to the Economic Development Authority fund for the appropriations of the CARES ACT funds: $256,000 for the small businesses and $250 for CARES administration.

Rehabilitation Housing Satisfactions

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve County Board Chair Joe Grund to sign the Satisfaction of Mortgage for the Rental and Rehabilitation Loan Program with Barry and Janelle Westerlund.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve County Board Chair Joe Grund to sign two separate Satisfactions of Mortgage for the Rental and Rehabilitation Loan Program with Brock and Sherri Stebakken.

COUNTY EXTENSION

Brenda Nelson, Extension Educator and 4-H Youth Development, along with a few students, provided an update to the Board on the program’s accomplishments.  4-H Cloverbuds workshops for grades K-3 and STEM workshops for grades 4-6 continue to be offered and curriculum for students in grades 7-12 called Youth and You was also added.  A catalog with Spring and Summer class offerings for the Northwest Region was reviewed.

RECESS

The Board took a brief recess at 9:20 a.m. and reconvened the meeting at 9:30 a.m.

PINE TO PRAIRIE TASK FORCE 

Sergeant Schrage provided an update on the Pine to Prairie Drug Task Force, which works with nine different counties, local law enforcement, conservation officers, the Paul Bunyan Task Force and others. 

BORDERLAND TREATMENT COURT

Amanda Zortman, Bryan Hasbargen, Lisa Havluck and Judge Jerrod Shermoen presented on the process and the purpose of the Borderland Substance Abuse Court.  Treatment courts can help lead people living with substance use out of the justice system and into lives of recovery and stability.

LAKE OF THE WOODS SENIOR CLASS TRIP

Several students from the Lake of the Woods High School Graduating Class of 2021 shared their plans for a senior class trip. The Board asked the students to attend the Board meeting on March 23rd to provide an update.

PUBLIC WORKS

Highway

Approval of bids: SAP 039-608-024, SAP 039-631-007, SAP 039-606-019

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the bid from Gladen at $600,660 for SAP 039-608-024.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the bid from Knife River at $2,121,067.57 for SAP 039-631-007 and SAP 039-606-019.

Approval to advertise for bids: SAP 039-622-08

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the advertisement for bids on SAP 039-622-08. 

Resolution for LRIP Grant

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

LOCAL ROAD IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY SPONSORING AGENCY

For

Main Avenue North, City of Baudette Project

Resolution No. 2021-02-04

WHEREAS, the City of Baudette is applying to the Commissioner of Transportation for a grant from the Minnesota State Transportation Fund for Local Road Improvement for Project – Main Avenue North;

BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County agrees to act as sponsoring agency for the project identified as Main Avenue North, seeking Local Road Improvement Program funding and has reviewed and approved the project as proposed.  Sponsorship includes a willingness to secure and guarantee the local share of costs associated with this project and responsibility for seeing this project through to its completion, with compliance of applicable laws, rules and regulations; and,

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County hereby authorizes County Engineer, Anthony Pirkl to act as agent on behalf of this sponsoring agency.

Resolution for LRIP Grant

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

LOCAL ROAD IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY SPONSORING AGENCY

For

Eighth Ave South East, City of Baudette Project

Resolution No. 2021-02-05

WHEREAS, the City of Baudette is applying to the Commissioner of Transportation for a grant from the Minnesota State Transportation Fund for Local Road Improvement for Project – Eighth Ave South East;

BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County agrees to act as sponsoring agency for the project identified as Eighth Ave South East, seeking Local Road Improvement Program funding and has reviewed and approved the project as proposed.  Sponsorship includes a willingness to secure and guarantee the local share of costs associated with this project and responsibility for seeing this project through to its completion, with compliance of applicable laws, rules and regulations; and,

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County hereby authorizes County Engineer, Anthony Pirkl to act as agent on behalf of this sponsoring agency.

Amend Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to amend the agenda to add, under Public Works/Highway: Purchase of 2015 Freightliner Cascadia.

Purchase of 2015 Freightliner Cascadia 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of a 2015 Freightliner Cascadia 125 for $40,500.

SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

CentralSquare Contract Signature and Financing

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously the following; contingent upon approval of County Attorney James Austad, County Sheriff Gary Fish and final approval of contract:

RESOLUTION APPROVING 

LEASE PURCHASE AGREEMENT FOR 

PURPOSE OF FINANCING A PUBLIC SAFETY PROJECT

RESOLUTION NO. 21-02-06

WHEREAS, Upon approval of legal counsel, Lake of the Woods County desires to enter into that certain Lease Purchase Agreement by and between Lake of the Woods County and Government Capital Corporation, for the purpose of financing a “public safety project”.  The County desires to designate this Agreement as a “qualified tax-exempt obligation” of the County for the purposes of Section 265 (b) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. The County desires to designate Chair Joe Grund as an authorized signer of the Agreement.

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

Section 1. That Lake of the Woods County enters into a Lease Purchase Agreement with Government Capital Corporation for the purpose of financing a public safety project.

Section 2.  That the Lease Purchase Agreement by and between Lake of the Woods County and Government Capital Corporation is designated by the County as a “qualified tax exempt obligation” for the purposes of Section 265 (b) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

Section 3.  That the County designates Chair Joe Grund, as an authorized signer of the Lease Purchase Agreement by and between Lake of the Woods County and Government Capital Corporation.

Section 4. That should the need arise, if applicable, the County will use proceeds for reimbursement of expenditures related to the Property, within the meaning of Treasury Regulation § 1.150-2, as promulgated under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

PROBATION PROGRAM

Marc Bloomquist presented on the MN Department of Corrections Probation/Supervised Release Program. Lake of the Woods County participates in this program, which can provide supervision for offenders to include face-to-face contacts, electronic home monitoring, mandatory work or school, daily curfews, mandatory restitution and random drug testing.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 12:30 p.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m. as follows.

LAKE OF THE WOODS SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION

2020 County Feedlot Officer Annual Report

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the 2020 County Feedlot Officer Annual Report, as presented by Mike Hirst with Lake of the Woods County’s Soil & Water Conservation District.

Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Update

Mike Hirst with Lake of the Woods County’s Soil & Water Conservation District provided an update on the Aquatic Invasive Species Program.  In 2020, the program focused on inspections, education/outreach and early detection efforts.

Keep It Clean Program

Mike Hirst with Lake of the Woods County’s Soil & Water Conservation District provided an update on the Keep It Clean Program, which was created to promote cleanliness for Lake of the Woods.  

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY FAIR BOARD

Grandstand Project

Members of the Lake of the Woods County Fair Board provided an update on the grandstand project.  A used grandstand from Gustavus Adolphus College is available at a cost of $100,000.  The estimate to complete the project is $250,000.  The Fair Board is working on fundraising for the project and provided the County Board with a copy of a donation letter. It was the consensus of the County Board to support the project and the Fair Board was asked to come back again with a project update.

LAKEWOOD PUBLIC HEALTH

COVID-19/Vaccination Update

Kay M. Schell from CHI LakeWood Health, provided an update on the COVID-19 positivity rate and the public health COVID-19 vaccination clinics.  

Funding Request

Jeffry Stampohar from CHI LakeWood Health provided an update and asked if the Board had any concerns about CHI LakeWood Public Health using the contracted $30,000 of flexible budget dollars for use toward the public health COVID-19 vaccination clinics, if needed.  CHI LakeWood Health has received funding from the state, but they are unsure if that will continue to cover all of the expenses of the vaccination clinics.  It was the consensus of the Board to approve the use of the $30,000 towards the vaccination clinics, if needed.

LAW ENFORCEMENT CENTER

Due to time, Commissioner Ed Arnesen withdrew his addition of Law Enforcement Center from the agenda.

TOURISM

Due to time, Commissioner Ed Arnesen withdrew his addition of Tourism from the agenda.

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Chair Joe Grund called the meeting to recess at 2:55 p.m.

Attest: March 9, 2021

__________________________________ _____________________________________

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

Commissioner Proceedings

February 9, 2021

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room. 

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the agenda with the following additions: Prep for Non-elected Department Head Reviews/Human Resources.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the official and summarized minutes of January 26, 2021.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrant’s $18,247.68; Commissioners Warrant’s $1,736.81; Commissioners Warrant’s $4,449.37.

AUDITOR/TREASURER

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $24,686.49; Road & Bridge $38,358.39; County Development $1,000; Solid Waste $26,181.92; EDA, $1,697.74. 

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/09/2021 For Payment 2/12/2021

Vendor Name Amount

Code 4 Services,Inc 2,920.00

Compass Minerals America 7,936.35

Howard’s Oil 3,153.63

Interstate Billing Service Inc 3,095.13

Little Falls Machine, Inc 8,172.28

LOW Highway Dept 6,900.00

Mar-Kit Landfill 17,221.50

Tillery/Dale 2,064.24

Woody’s Service 3,152.81

Ziegler, Inc 11,792.80

58 Payments less than 2000               25,515.80

                           Final Total: 91,924.54

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: January 27, 2021 for $11,495.92; February 2, 2021 for $82,060.12; February 2, 2021 for $231,549.57.

Resolution for Off-Site Gambling – Northwest Angle Edge Riders

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call the following:

RESOLUTION APPROVING 

LAWFUL GAMBLING ACTIVITY APPLICATION 

TO CONDUCT OFF-SITE GAMBLING

RESOLUTION NO. 21-02-01

WHEREAS; the Northwest Angle Edge Riders has submitted a Minnesota Lawful Gambling LG230 Application to Conduct Off-Site Gambling to be conducted at the following establishment, which is located in Lake of the Woods County: Sunset Lodge Resort on 2/27/2021.

 Sunset Lodge Resort 3179 Oak Island MN 56741

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby approves said application for submission to the Minnesota Gambling Control Board.

County Extension Committee Appointment

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to appoint Dean Thompson to the 2021 County Extension Committee.

Transfer of Funds: Ditch and CARA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to authorize a temporary loan to Ditch Fund 22 and the CARA fund; to mitigate a temporary negative cash balance effective December 31, 2020.

Review County Lands for Sale/Auction

The Board reviewed the list of county lands that are eligible for auction.  It was the consensus of the Board to reduce the minimum bid to $1,000 for the three parcels in the City of Williams.  The county land adjacent to the Gustafson property will need to be surveyed and the right of way easement determined before a decision to sell it can be made. The land auction sale will be rescheduled for a later date to accommodate procedures and advertise.

Time Change for Board Meeting

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to change the start time for the Board meeting on February 23, 2021 to 8:30 a.m.  This meeting will be held at Lake of the Woods School.

SHERIFF

Joint Powers Agreement – Minnesota Anti-Heroin Task Force

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the Joint Powers Agreement for the Minnesota Anti-Heroin Task Force Program and for Commissioner Joe Grund to sign the same.

ATTORNEY

Memorandum of Understanding – Minnesota Legal Kiosk Project 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the Memorandum of Understanding between Legal Services of Northwest Minnesota and Lake of the Woods County Law Library and for Commissioner Joe Grund to sign the same.

MIS

IT/GIS Job Description Change 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the three-tier job descriptions for the MIS Department.

Motion
Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to move current IT/GIS employees in the MIS Department to Grade 15, Step 5, Points 337, effective the next full pay period.

HUMAN RESOURCES

Highway Office Manager Approval 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to hire Jane Larson to the Highway Office Manager position at Grade 13, Step 2, Points 299, effective May 15, 2021.

Approval to Advertise, Interview and Hire Highway Deputy Accountant

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to advertise, interview and hire for a Deputy Accountant in Highway at Grade 10, Step 1, Points 233.

PUBLIC WORKS

Highway

Amend Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve adding “Agreement with the City of Baudette” to the agenda.

Agreement with the City of Baudette

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve an agreement with the City of Baudette for maintenance of State Aid Roads in City Limits.

Purchase of Excavator

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the purchase of a John Deere 210G with tilt bucket, hydraulic attachment ability and 2D grade guidance at $268,254.

Purchase of Mulcher

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the purchase of a mulcher attachment for use on a Bobcat from Paladin at $18,500.

Truck Transfer to Sheriff’s Department

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the transfer of a Ford 150 from the Public Works Department to the Sheriff’s Department.

Approval on Consultant for SAP 039-608-025

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve WSB as the consultant for SAP 039-608-025 at $34,202.

Ditch/Drainage Authority

Provided an invoice for JD 28 at $41,217.80

Landfill

Trade-in and Purchase of Bobcat

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the purchase of a 770 Bobcat at $48,520.68 with trade-in of telehandler.

ZIPPEL BAY JETTY

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve up to $25,000 from Con Con Funds for maintenance dredging of the Zippel Bay Jetty.

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Roseau River Watershed 1W1P

Resolution

This resolution was offered by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commission Ed Arnesen, and adopted by a vote of 5-0 at a regular meeting of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners on February 9, 2021.

RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT A ROSEAU RIVER WATERSHED 

ONE WATERSHED, ONE PLAN PROJECT

Lake of the Woods County

Resolution #21-02-02

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Board of Soil and Water Resources has developed policies for coordination and development of comprehensive watershed management plans, also known as One Watershed, One Plan, consistent with Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 103B.801, Comprehensive Watershed Management Planning Program; and,

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 103B.301, Comprehensive Local Water Management Act, authorizes Minnesota Counties to develop and implement a local water management plan; and,

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 103D.401, Watershed Management Plan, authorizes Minnesota Watershed Districts to develop and implement a watershed management plan; and,

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 103C.331, subdivision 11, Comprehensive Plan, authorizes Minnesota Soil and Water Conservation Districts to develop and implement a comprehensive plan; and,

WHEREAS, the counties, soil and water conservation districts, and watershed districts within the Roseau River Watershed (#46), as delineated in the attached One Watershed, One Plan Suggested Boundary Map, have interest in developing a comprehensive watershed management plan for this area.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County recognizes and supports watershed-scale planning efforts consistent with Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 103B.801, also known as One Watershed, One Plan; and,

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Lake of the Woods County welcomes the opportunity to collaborate with the counties, soil and water conservation districts, and watershed districts within the Roseau River Watershed for watershed-scale planning efforts in the future; and,

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners supports an application to the Board of Water and Soil Resources for a planning grant to develop a comprehensive watershed management plan and it is anticipated full participation is not warranted; however, staff will be able to provide comments on an as needed basis.

Lower Rainy and Rapid Rivers 1W1P

Resolution

This resolution was offered by Commissioner James Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, and adopted by a vote of 5-0 at a regular meeting of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners on February 9, 2021.

RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT A RAPID AND LOWER RAINY RIVER WATERSHED 

ONE WATERSHED, ONE PLAN PROJECT

Lake of the Woods County

Resolution #21-02-03

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Board of Soil and Water Resources has developed policies for coordination and development of comprehensive watershed management plans, also known as One Watershed, One Plan, consistent with Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 103B.801, Comprehensive Watershed Management Planning Program; and,

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 103B.301, Comprehensive Local Water Management Act, authorizes Minnesota Counties to develop and implement a local water management plan; and,

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 103C.331, subdivision 11, Comprehensive Plan, authorizes Minnesota Soil and Water Conservation Districts to develop and implement a comprehensive plan; and,

WHEREAS, the counties and soil and water conservation districts within the Rapid and Lower Rainy Watershed (#50) as modified in the attached One Watershed, One Plan Suggested Boundary Map, have interest in developing a comprehensive watershed management plan for this area.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County recognizes and supports watershed-scale planning efforts consistent with Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 103B.801, also known as One Watershed, One Plan; and,

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Lake of the Woods County welcomes the opportunity to collaborate with the counties and soil and water conservation districts within the Rapid and Lower Rainy Watershed for watershed-scale planning efforts in the future; and,

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners supports an application to the Board of Water and Soil Resources for a planning grant to develop a comprehensive watershed management plan and anticipates entering into a Memorandum of Agreement with the counties and soil and water conservation districts within the Rapid and Lower Rainy Watershed, to collaborate on this effort, pending selection as a recipient of a planning grant.

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #21-01CU by Grant and Savanna Slick

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and presented a Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #21-01CU by Grant and Savanna Slick:  A 4.6-acre tract in Section Twenty-nine (29), Range One Hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-one (31) West – Parcel ID#: 24.29.22.020. Applicants are requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401.C of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term transient rental in a Rural Residential Zoning (R2).

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried by roll call, with Commissioner Buck Nordlof abstaining, to approve the following Findings of Fact for Grant and Savanna Slick to operate a short-term transient rental in a Rural Residential Zoning (R2), with conditions:  

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Grant & Savanna Slick_________________   Date:  February 9, 2021_____

Location/Legal Description:  A Tract of land in Section Twenty-nine (29), Range One Hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-one (31) West – Parcel ID#: 24.29.22.020

Project Proposal:  Operate a short-term transient rental in a Rural Residential Zoning District (R2)

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

Why or why not?  The Lake of the Woods County Board is clear about the type of values important to the county as it develops an approach to managing its land base. These values include a desire for local control over an individual choice when it comes to issues of work and leisure. The following is a summary of those values important to Lake of the Woods County, pertinent to this request:

• Individual Choice – In the types of work and leisure to pursue, and in where to live and in the lifestyle to pursue;
• Local Influence – Over policy that affects the lives of county citizens;
• Balance – Between individual rights and the public’s welfare and between competing economic development objectives.

Low Density Rural Activity

Lands in Lake of the Woods County classified as low-density rural activity areas include farmsteads and rural residences, and other rural developments. The latter classification includes a significant number of resorts and recreational properties in the county and some commercial and industrial properties.

The low-density rural activity lands in Lake of the Woods County account for only a small fraction of total land uses. The county can expect to experience some modest growth in these uses primarily for recreational properties on or near lakeshore. Since 1980, almost all of the net growth of households has been in the rural areas of the county, outside of the limits of the cities, and all of the net increase in residences has been in the seasonal home category. In conclusion, there will be modest growth in intensive uses, principally seasonal home development, over the next two decades.

Future Land Use Plan

The following describes Lake of the Woods County’s vision for future land use and development in the county. It includes the county’s land use goals, policies it will promote through its activities, and a future land use map illustrating described future land use patterns in the county. It also includes specific implementation strategies the county will undertake to further its goals and policies.

• Goals:  Within the context of its values and philosophy, Lake of the Woods County has developed a series of goals to guide the development of its land use plan. The following are those goals pertinent to the project proposal.

1. Enhance the economic opportunities available for individuals and businesses in the county in ways that are compatible with long term environmental quality.
2. Maintain the tax base of the county so quality services can be provided.
3. Improve recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
4. Maintain and, where necessary, improve water quality.

• Policies:

1. Maintain the county governments economic health through the maintenance of its tax base, and the promotion of compatible economic activity.
2. Work to enhance the tourism industry in Lake of the Woods County through recreational enhancement and promotion activities.
3. Encourage future growth to occur in areas that are not environmentally sensitive, and that are already served by infrastructure; conversely, discourage growth in areas that would cause environmental problems or be expensive for the county to serve with roads and other facilities.

• Rural Development Activity:  Existing and future development areas which are within one-half mile of currently developed lands, but excluding lands that are either in public ownership, classed as wetlands, or more than one mile from an existing road. Future developments may include industrial, commercial, tourism, residential or other uses as appropriate to the site characteristics and neighborhood character.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A ( )

Why or why not? The public health, safety, and welfare will be maintained by upgrading the septic system, if necessary, and establishment of criteria via a rental agreement to ensure neighborhood character is maintained.

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?  The project proposal is consistent with the goal of preventing and controlling water pollution by upgrading the septic system, if necessary.

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

Why or why not?  There will be no change to the site’s existing topography, drainage features, and vegetative cover.

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

Why or why not?  The project proposal is not changing the location of current structures.

6. Has the erosion potential of the site based upon the degree and direction of slope, soil type and existing vegetative cover been adequately addressed for the project proposal?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?  The project proposal is not altering existing conditions.

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

Why or why not?  Access to and from the property is via an existing driveway which leads to an existing county road (22^nd Ave NW).

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

Why or why not?  Surrounding land uses are consistent with a rural atmosphere as there is a mixture of seasonal and permanent residences, agricultural, and farmsteads. With proper conditions, the proposed use will be limited in scope as compared to adjacent seasonal and full-time residences.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Property is adjacent to the Winter Road river.

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

Why or why not?  The current septic system was installed in 1987 and will be inspected during the summer of 2021.

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

Why or why not?  The proposed use will not alter the view from public waters.

12. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems?

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A ( )

Why or why not?  The property is served from a private well and sewage treatment system.

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 (X)  NO (  )  N/A ( )

Why or why not?  The Winter Road river is a tributary of the Rainy River.

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?  The proposed use will not include storage tanks.

15. Will there be fencing and/or other screening provided to buffer the project proposal from adjacent properties?                                                                                                YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A ( )

Why or why not?  Natural barrier of trees/vegetation is in existence.

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?  There will be no signage associated with the proposed use.

17. If the project proposal will generate additional traffic to or from the site, has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the additional traffic and parking is to be addressed? 

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

Why or why not?  There is ample parking on the property with an existing driveway. No off-site parking is proposed or needed.

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

The specific conditions of approval are as follows:

1. A septic system compliance inspection is to be performed prior to July 31, 2021. If the current system is found to be non-compliant, the system must be upgraded within two-years of the date of the inspection deeming it non-compliant.
2. Must meet applicable Department of Health requirements.
3. The current well must be tested and it must meet Minnesota drinking water standards. If the well doesn’t meet said standards, adequate measures must be taken to meet the standards, which may include drilling a new well.
4. A rental agreement must be kept on file in the Land and Water Planning Office and available on the premises, which addresses and includes the following items:
   • Language reminding renters about boat speed on the Winter Road river.
   • Establishment of quiet hours from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am.
   • There shall be no more than eight (8) people residing or sleeping on the property.
   • Owner contact information is identified, or, in the case the owner is not immediately available, a local point of contact is established.
   • Language prohibiting large gatherings such as wedding receptions, parties, or any other large group function.
   • Establishment of immediate eviction criteria.
   • Language regarding animals and pets on the property.
   • Language regarding being courteous to neighboring property owners and trespassing.
   • Language regarding ATV and snowmobile traffic.
   • A property boundary map.
5. The property corners are to be visible marked.
6. This conditional use permit terminates upon sale or transfer of the property.

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

February 9, 2021 _____________________________________

Date Joe Grund

        Chair, County Board

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

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #21-02CU by L & S Investing, LLC   

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and presented a Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #21-02CU by L & S Investing, LLC for Government Lots 3, 4, and 5, less deeded in Section Seven (7), Range One Hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-one (31) West – Parcel ID#: 24.07.32.009. Applicants are requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401.B of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term transient rental in a Residential Development (R1) Zoning District.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the following Findings of Fact for L & S Investing, LLC to operate a short-term transient rental in a Residential Development Zoning District (R1), with conditions:  

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  L & S Investing LLC Date:  February 9, 2021

Location/Legal Description:  Government Lots 3, 4, and 5, less deeded in Section Seven (7), Range One Hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-one (31) West – Parcel ID#: 24.07.32.009

Project Proposal:  Operate a short-term transient rental in a Residential Development 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 (  )

Why or why not?  The Lake of the Woods County Board is clear about the type of values important to the county as it develops an approach to managing its land base. These values include a desire for local control over an individual choice when it comes to issues of work and leisure. The following is a summary of those values important to Lake of the Woods County, pertinent to this request:

• Individual Choice – In the types of work and leisure to pursue, and in where to live and in the lifestyle to pursue;
• Local Influence – Over policy that affects the lives of county citizens;
• Balance – Between individual rights and the public’s welfare and between competing economic development objectives.

High Growth Corridor

The high growth corridor is a 12 mile stretch of highway between Baudette and Wheelers Point Resort. The corridor includes property adjacent to TH 172 and up to the Rainy River. Due to the high-quality amenities and the desire of tourists and residents to be near such fabulous natural resources as Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River, the County would like to encourage growth in a responsible way along the growth corridor.

The vision for the growth corridor is to offer an exceptional quality of life to existing residents, future residents, and tourists interested in taking advantage of the unique natural resources and opportunities in the County.

The pertinent objectives and policies, within the growth corridor are as follows;

1. Encourage growth in highly desirable areas while discouraging haphazard, random development patterns.
   • Allow home based businesses that do not generate significant traffic or outdoor storage.
2. Protect housing from incompatible uses.
   • Require buffering for commercial uses that abut residential property.
3. Support uses that target tourist-oriented development.

Future Land Use Plan

The following describes Lake of the Woods County’s vision for future land use and development in the county. It includes the county’s land use goals, policies it will promote through its activities, and a future land use map illustrating described future land use patterns in the county. It also includes specific implementation strategies the county will undertake to further its goals and policies.

• Goals:  Within the context of its values and philosophy, Lake of the Woods County has developed a series of goals to guide the development of its land use plan. The following are those goals pertinent to the project proposal.

1. Enhance the economic opportunities available for individuals and businesses in the county in ways that are compatible with long term environmental quality.
2. Maintain the tax base of the county so quality services can be provided.
3. Improve recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
4. Maintain and, where necessary, improve water quality.

• Policies:

1. Maintain the county governments economic health through the maintenance of its tax base, and the promotion of compatible economic activity.
2. Work to enhance the tourism industry in Lake of the Woods County through recreational enhancement and promotion activities.
3. Encourage future growth to occur in areas that are not environmentally sensitive, and that are already served by infrastructure; conversely, discourage growth in areas that would cause environmental problems or be expensive for the county to serve with roads and other facilities.

• Rural Development Activity:  Existing and future development areas which are within one-half mile of currently developed lands, but excluding lands that are either in public ownership, classed as wetlands, or more than one mile from an existing road. Future developments may include industrial, commercial, tourism, residential or other uses as appropriate to the site characteristics and neighborhood character.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A ( )

Why or why not? The public health, safety, and welfare will be maintained by upgrading the septic system, if necessary, and establishment of criteria via a rental agreement to ensure neighborhood character is maintained.

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?  The project proposal is consistent with the goal of preventing and controlling water pollution by upgrading the septic system, if necessary.

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

Why or why not?  There will be no substantial change to the site’s existing topography, drainage features, and vegetative cover.

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

Why or why not?  The project proposal is not changing the location of current structures.

6. Has the erosion potential of the site based upon the degree and direction of slope, soil type and existing vegetative cover been adequately addressed for the project proposal?

    YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?  The project proposal is not altering existing conditions.

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

Why or why not?  Access to and from the property is via an existing driveway and County Road #30.

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

Why or why not?  Surrounding land uses are consistent with a residential atmosphere as there is a mixture of seasonal and permanent residences. With proper conditions, the proposed use will be limited in scope as compared to adjacent seasonal and full-time residences.

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

      YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Property is adjacent to the Rainy River.

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

       Why or why not?  The current septic system was installed in 1998 and will be inspected during the     summer of 2021.

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

Why or why not?  The proposed use will not alter the view from public waters.

12. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems?

        YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A ( )

Why or why not?  The property is served from a private well and sewage treatment system.

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 (X)  NO (  )  N/A ( )

Why or why not?  The Rainy River is an expansive waterbody that is more than capable of accommodating additional watercraft.

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?  The proposed use will not include storage tanks.

15. Will there be fencing and/or other screening provided to buffer the project proposal from adjacent properties?                                                                                                               YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A ( )

Why or why not?  Natural barrier of trees/vegetation is in existence.

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?  There will be no signage associated with the proposed use.

17. If the project proposal will generate additional traffic to or from the site, has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the additional traffic and parking is to be addressed? 

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

Why or why not?  There is ample parking on the property with an existing driveway. No off-site parking is proposed or needed.

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

The specific conditions of approval are as follows:

1. A septic system compliance inspection is to be performed prior to July 31, 2021. If the current system is found to be non-compliant, the system must be upgraded within two-years of the date of the inspection deeming it non-compliant.
2. Must meet applicable Department of Health requirements.
3. The current well must be tested and it must meet Minnesota drinking water standards. If the well doesn’t meet said standards, adequate measures must be taken to meet the standards, which may include drilling a new well.
4. A rental agreement must be kept on file in the Land and Water Planning Office and available on the premises, which addresses and includes the following items:
   • Language reminding renters about boat speed on the Wabanica River, if utilizing the public access near Bayview Lodge.
   • Establishment of quiet hours from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am.
   • There shall be no tents or campers allowed to gain more renters/occupancy on the property.
   • Owner contact information is identified, or, in the case the owner is not immediately available, a local point of contact is established.
   • Language prohibiting large gatherings such as wedding receptions, parties, or any other large group function.
   • Establishment of immediate eviction criteria.
   • Language regarding animals and pets on the property.
   • Language regarding being courteous to neighboring property owners and trespassing.
   • Language regarding ATV and snowmobile traffic.
5. The capacity/occupancy of the structure is limited the size of the septic system capacity which will be based upon seventy-five (75) gallons/person/day.
6. The conditional use permit is based upon current structure size, height, and dimensions which is located on Lot #3 (3.41 acres) on the conceptual plat drawing presented as part of the application.
7. This conditional use permit terminates upon sale or transfer of the property.

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

February 9, 2021 _____________________________________

Date Joseph Grund

        Chair, County Board

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

HUMAN RESOURCES

Prep for Non-Elected Department Head Reviews

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to postpone the work session to prep for non-elected department reviews to February 17, 2021 at 10:30 a.m.

RECESS

With no further business before the Board, Chair Joe Grund called the meeting to recess at 11:48 a.m.

Attest: February 23, 2021

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

Commissioner Proceedings

February 11, 2020

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 11, 2020 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following addition: Gambling Application for the Northwest Angle Edge Riders.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of January 28, 2020.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrant’s $16,906.38, Commissioners Warrant’s $3,399.95, Commissioners Warrant’s $9,357.02.

AUDITOR/TREASURER

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $79,533.00, Road & Bridge $32,014.77, Joint Ditch $9,238.68, Solid Waste $47,424.72, EDA $38,948.83.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/11/2020 For Payment 2/14/2020

Vendor Name                                        Amount

Beckel/Joyce & Thomas                                          3,600.00

ByteSpeed, LLC                                                       7,179.00

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                    6,263.38

Counties Providing Technology                              3,751.00

Crompton/Daniel & Judith                                         3,480.00

Esri                                                                         25,000.00

Headwaters Regional Development Commiss      37,500.00

Howard’s Oil Company                                           5,324.13

Information Systems Corporation                            9,124.00

LOW Highway Dept                                               10,352.50

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                       18,780.50

Nw Mn Household Hazardous                                 5,508.00

Pb Distributing Inc                                                    5,775.10

Plutko Plumbing & Heating                                        7,438.72

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                  3,605.00

SeaChange Print Innovations                                   5,458.21

Shi Corp                                                                   3,016.00

University of North Dakota                                       9,202.71

Widseth Smith Nolting&Asst Inc                               7,456.50

Woody’s Service                                                     2,813.47

60 2000 Payments less than 26,531.78

Final Total: 207,160.00

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: January 29, 2020 for $13,353.82, February 4, 2020 for ($849.00), February 4, 2020 for ($533.20), February 4, 2020 for $169,922.86, February 5, 2020 for $13,825.10.

GAMBLING APPLICATION

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION APPROVING

LAWFUL GAMBLING ACTIVITY APPLICATION

TO CONDUCT OFF-SITE GAMBLING

RESOLUTION NO. 20-02-01

WHEREAS; the Northwest Angle Edge Riders has submitted a Minnesota Lawful Gambling LG230 Application to Conduct Off-Site Gambling to be conducted at the following establishment, which is located in Lake of the Woods County: Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge on 2/29/2020.

 Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge 836 Oak Island, Oak Island, MN  56741

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby approves said application for submission to the Minnesota Gambling Control Board.

SHERIFF

City Law Enforcement Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Law Enforcement Contract with the City of Baudette.

COUNTY HIGHWAY/LANDFILL

Selection of Bridge Consultant for CSAH 8

The County is working with Widseth Smith Nolting on the CSAH 8/Zippel Bridge Project, preliminary work will start this year with replacement next year.

Highway Update

Boyd Johnson provided the update for the Highway Department.

Landfill Update

Boyd Johnson provided the Landfill Update and reported that progress continues to be made regarding the permit extension with the MPCA.

MIS

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve security upgrades totaling $7,341.00 for the court room and court administration, including: audio/video/pc cables, key fobs, and security glass for the court administration counter.

PROPOSED LAW ENFORCEMENT CENTER

Discussion continued on exploring location options for the proposed law enforcement center.

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Chairman Jon Waibel called the meeting to recess at 9:50 a.m.

Attest:                                                                                      February 25, 2020

__________________________________                            _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson                                Chairman of the Board, Jon Waibel

=============================================================================================================================================================================================================================================

Commissioner Proceedings

February 25, 2020

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February     25, 2020 in the ITV room at the Lake of the Woods School.

High School Social Studies teacher, Mr. Don Krause

Mr. Don Krause thanked the Commissioners for meeting at the School so his students could attend and participate in the meeting.

Call to Order

Chairman Waibel called the meeting to order at 8:15 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Joe Grund, Cody Hasbargen, Ed Arnesen, Jon Waibel and Buck Nordlof.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, County Attorney James Austad and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: NWA Airport Resolution, Post Prom, Sheriff Boat and Water Grant, Selection of Committee Members for Joint Committee with City of Baudette, Set-up work session for Landfill, and Law Enforcement Center Discussion.   

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of February 11, 2020.

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 $8,326.17, Commissioners Warrants $2,282.24, Commissioners Warrants $18,459.86.

COUNTY AUDITOR/TREASURER

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows: Revenue $94,741.04; Road & Bridge $17,872.27; County Development $2,200; Solid Waste $3221.52; EDA $385.00.

Warrants For Publication

Warrants Approved on 2/25/2020 for Payment 2/28/2020

Vendor Name                          Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                          2,656.94

Klein McCarthy & Co, Ltd, Architects             7,248.53

McCoy Construction & Forestry Inc             11,143.66

Minnesota State Auditor                               63,766.10

SeaChange Print Innovations                        2,292.51

Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc                          2,910.87

St. Louis County Auditor                                2,000.00

TOTALFUNDS                                                3,000.00

51 Payments less than 2000                        23,401.22

Final Total:                                                 118,419.83

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following Auditor warrants: February 11, 2020 for $151,703.39; February 21, 2020 for $734.48.

HUMAN RESOURCES

Non-Elected Department Head Reviews

Motion
Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set the date for non-elected department head reviews on March 9, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. in the County Commissioners Room.

BOLLIG NWA AIRPORT RESOLUTION

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.

AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE

MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

GRANT AGREEMENT FOR AIRPORT IMPROVEMENT

EXCLUDING LAND ACQUISITION

Resolution No. 2020-02-03

It is resolved by the County of Lake of the Woods as follows:

1. That the state of Minnesota Agreement No. 1035854, “Grant Agreement for Airport Improvement Excluding Land Acquisition,” for State Project No. A3902-03 at the Northwest Angle Airport is accepted.

2. That the County Board Chair and County Auditor are authorized to execute this Agreement and any amendments on behalf of the County of Lake of the Woods.

POST-PROM

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to donate $100 to the Post-Prom Party to be held at Lake of the Woods School.

CITY/COUNTY JOINT COMMITTEE

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to appoint Commissioner Jon Waibel and Commissioner Ed Arnesen to the joint committee with the City of Baudette regarding Lake of the Woods Tourism.

EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT APPROVAL

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve Tony Kalk’s Eagle Scout Project, which is to secure a life ring at Clementson Rapids.

SHERIFF

Boat and Water Grant

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

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A FEDERAL:

BOAT & WATER SAFETY GRANT

Resolution No. 2020-02-02

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

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

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Chairman, Auditor and Sheriff are hereby authorized to execute the federal county boat and water safety agreement, for the period of March 2, 2020 through August 14, 2020. Fiscal year 2020 will be paid up to $10,277.00 for expenses incurred between the effective date of the grant.

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

Proposed Law Enforcement Center

Discussion about the proposed Law Enforcement Center and costs involved.

PINE TO PRAIRIE TASK FORCE

Carl Hultman and Craig Severs provided an update on the Pine to Prairie Drug Task Force.  The Pine to Prairie Drug Task Force works with eight different counties, local law enforcement, conservation officers, the Paul Bunyan Task Force and others.

JUVENILE DETENTION ALTERNATIVES

Katrinna Dexter, JDAI Assistant State Coordinator/MN Association of Minnesota Counties, provided information about the Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative.  The Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative is a nationwide effort of local and state juvenile justice systems to eliminate unnecessary and inappropriate use of secure detention for juveniles.

COUNTY HIGHWAY/LANDFILL

Purchase of Major Equipment for the Highway Dept.

Motion

Motion was made Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of capital equipment, including: Motor Grader, Road Maintainer, Two Mowers, Dozer, and a Tractor.

Motion to Finalize Project: SAP 39-592-001; SAP 39-601-032; SAP 39-603-024; SAP 39-606-018

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Joe Grund and carried unanimously to accept the Public Works Director’s Certificate of Performance for SAP 39-592-001, SAP 39-601-032, SAP 39-603-024 and SAP 39-606-018 for Agassiz Asphalt, LLC of Newfolden, MN in the total amount of $2,790,038.62, and hereby authorize final payment in the amount of $225,644.67.

Highway Update

County Engineer, AJ Pirkl, provided the Highway Update.

Approval of Funds for Landfill Equipment

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of a Semi Truck at up to $40,000.

Landfill Update

County Engineer, AJ Pirkl, provided the Landfill Update and a work session was set for March 10^th after the board meeting.

TOWARD ZERO DEATH

Toward Zero Deaths Coordinator for District 2, Susan Johnson and Lieutenant Brad Norland presented on the Towards Zero Death Task Force.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 11:15 a.m. and reconvened at 12:36 p.m. as follows:

DWI COURT

BORDERLAND SUBSTANCE ABUSE COURT

Amanda Zortman and Bryan Hasbargen presented on the process and the purpose of the Borderland Substance Abuse Court.

PROBATION PROGRAM

Marc Bloomquist presented on the MN Department of Corrections Probation/Supervised Release Program.

LAKE OF THE WOODS COMMUNITY EDUCATION

Prairie Fire Children’s Theater Production of “Alladin”

Motion
Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to donate $500 from County Development Funds to Lake of the Woods Community Education for the Prairie Fire Children’s Theater Production of “Alladin”, which will have two performances- one on August 21, 2020 and one on August 22, 2020.

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Chairman Waibel called the meeting to recess at 3:05 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                      March 10, 2020

__________________________________                _____________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson                    Chairman of the Board, Jon Waibel

Commissioner Proceedings

February 12, 2019

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 12, 2019 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

Call to Order

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

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Grund, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following addition- County Attorney.  

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of January 22, 2019.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval for claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrant’s $8,301.87, Commissioners Warrant’s $2,201.45, Commissioners Warrant’s $63,404.33.

AUDITOR/TREASURER

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims, February 26, 2019 board meeting start time, Dr. Retention Agreement, and cell phone stipend, Larson Ditch Petition, GCN leases and post prom request of funds.

February 26, 2019 Board Meeting

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board to discuss the February 26 board agenda that will be held at Lake of the Woods School and informed them that the agenda is full and requested if the board could start at 8:30 a.m. to accommodate the full of agenda. The consensus of the board was to start at 8:30 a.m. instead of 9:00 a.m. and to post accordingly.

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $70,778.30, Road & Bridge $26,424.18, County Devel.$200.00 , Solid Waste, $33,399.78, EDA, $2,040.19.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/12/2019 For Payment 2/15/2019

Vendor Name                                        Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                       9,230.87

Counties Providing Technology                                  3,570.00

Farmers Union Oil Co.                                                 3,023.30

Grant’s Mechanical                                                     2,643.41

Howard’s Oil Company                                               3,043.67

Information Systems Corporation                               8,771.00

Little Falls Machine, Inc                                               7,090.29

LOW Fair Association                                               25,000.00

LOW Highway Dept                                                    7,774.15

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                          15,063.25

Plutko Plumbing & Heating                                           6,034.18

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                     2,060.00

Streamworks                                                              2,500.00

TOTALFUNDS                                                             4,000.00

Woody’s Service                                                        2,850.51

75 Payments less than 2000 30,187.82

Final Total: 132,842.45

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: January 22, 2019 – $.50, January 31, 2019- $48,818.48, January 31, 2019 – $3,252.54, February 6, 2019, $9,831.58-Febuary 6, 2019- $230,605.33.

Dr. Retention

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve to approve the Doctor Retention Agreement with Lakewood Health Center effective October 1, 2018 for three years unless earlier terminated by County by written notice and authorize County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson, Chairman Hasbargen, and County Attorney, James Austad to sign.

Cell Phone Stipend

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Grund to approve a County Cell phone stipend to Dean Wiese, in the amount of sixty dollars (60.00) per month.

Government Center North Leases

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Government Center North Lease for space with Sanford Health Network North effective February 1, 2013 and extended through and until December 31, 2019, or by written notice of sixty (60) day notices of termination of lease with a fixed rent of $1,000 per month and authorize County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson to sign.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Government Center North Lease for space with NWCA with a fixed rent of $650.00 per month effective August 1, 2019 thru July 31, 2020, unless extended or sooner terminated and authorize County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson and County Attorney to sign.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Waibel, and carried unanimously to contribute $100.00 to the Post Prom Committee from the Revenue fund.

HUMAN RESOURCES

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board on behalf of Human Resource Director, Savanna Slick to set a date for Non-elected Department Head Review Process. The board set March 12th after the regular meeting to discuss the review process.

NORTHWEST ANGLE EDGERIDERS

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board on behalf of Northwest Angle Edgeriders club for a resolution of Support for a Capital Equipment Grant.

Resolution

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

MN Snowmobile Trail Assistance Program

FY2019 Capital Equipment Grant

Resolution – 19-02-01

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County on behalf of the Northwest Angle Edge Riders Snowmobile Club supports the grant application made to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for the Federal Recreational Trail Program. The application is to purchase snowmobile trail grooming equipment for the Corridor 39 trail.  The trail system is located throughout Lake of the Woods County.

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County recognizes the Northwest Angle Edge Riders Snowmobile Club will provide a twenty-five (25) percent match requirement for the Federal Recreational Trail Program.

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

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

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

                                                                  Lorene Hanson

     County Auditor-Treasurer

                                                      206 8th Ave SE #260,

                                                      Baudette, MN 56623

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Northwest Angle Edge Riders Snowmobile Club hereby assures the grooming equipment acquired through this grant will be maintained for no less than twenty (20) years as required by the Federal Recreational Trail Grant Program or until such time as appropriate disposition actions are approved by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

COUNTY ATTORNEY

County Attorney, James Austad met with the board to discuss the proposed Special Events Ordinance.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 9:50 a.m. and reconvened at 10:02 a.m.

EDA DIRECTOR

Lake of the Woods Economic Development Authority Director, Ryan Zemek met with the board via a phone conference call to discuss the proposed loan to the Northern Farmer’s Cooperative Exchange for assistance with an upcoming expansion that would help with the demolition of an existing elevator. The cost of this is approximately $100,000 in labor and transport and $40,000 in demo fees.  The Co-op approached the EDA for a loan with flexible terms to complete this phase of the project. Ryan informed the board that he is working on underwriting of the loan and will get terms and loan agreement done for the next EDA meeting.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Grund and carried unanimously to advance funds in the amount of $140,000 to the EDA from the Con-Con fund with funding returned by December 2019.

SHERIFF

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting permission to advertise, interview and hire two (2) part-time Dispatchers/Jailers.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to authorize County Sheriff, Gary Fish to advertise, interview and hire two (2) part-time dispatchers at grade 10, Step 1, 237 points, $18.86 per hour.

Credit Card

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve a county issued credit card to Dispatcher/Jailer, Tammy Maurer.

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and presented a Conditional Use Permit for Jerry and LuAnn Hennum to operate a commercial business consisting of transient short-term rental of an existing structure in a Residential District (R1).  No comments were heard from the Public. Josh reviewed the Findings of Fact of the Planning Commission and informed the board that they approved this application with the following conditions, the specific conditions of approval are as follows:

1. Survey site to make sure all buildings within lot lines.
2. Meet all MDH requirements.
3. CUP terminates on sale or transfer of property.
4. Lodging tax for LOW County must be paid retro to 9/20/18.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following Findings of Fact for Jerry & Luann Hennum to operate a commercial business consisting of transient short-term rental of an existing structure in a Residential District (R1) as follows:

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Jerry & Luann Hennum                                                               Date:  February 12, 2019

Location/Legal Description:  A tract of land lying in Government Lot 1 and in the Southeast Quarter of the Northwest Quarter (SE ¼ NW ¼), Section Twenty-eight (28), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-one (31) – Parcel ID# 24.28.21.030.

Project Proposal:  A Conditional Use Permit, as required by Section 401-B of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance, to allow the applicant to operate a commercial business consisting of transient short-term rental of an existing structure in a Residential District (R1).

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? _Growth corridor________________________________________

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

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

Why or why not? _Must meet MDH/County requirements______________________

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? _Not in floodplain_______________________________________

6. Has the erosion potential of the site based upon the degree and direction of slope, soil type and existing vegetative cover been adequately addressed for the project proposal?

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? _State Hwy 172_________________________________________

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 (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? _Must meet MDH requirements_____________________________     

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

Why or why not? _No change_____________________________________________

12. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems?

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

Why or why not? _Must meet MDH requirements____________________________       

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 (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? __No change/adequate____________________________________

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 (X)  N/A (  )

Why or why not? ___None planned________________________________________

17. If the project proposal will generate additional traffic to or from the site, has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the additional traffic and parking is to be addressed?

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

Why or why not? __On site______________________________________________

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

The specific conditions of approval are as follows: 

1. Survey site to make sure all buildings within lot lines.
2. Meet all MDH requirements.
3. CUP terminates on sale or transfer of property.
4. Lodging tax for LOW County must be paid retro to 9/20/18.

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

                                                                                    _____________________________________

                                                                                                            Cody Hasbargen

                                                                                                        Chair, County Board

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

DNR

Tim Williamson, Acquisition and Development Specialist/Division of Parks and Trails and Jack Pellinen, Area 1C Supervisor and Hayes Lake State Park Manger met with the board to discuss Border to Border Touring Route which will be a scenic backroad route that intends to travel across the Northern Portion of the State from North Dakota Border to the Shore of Lake Superior on roads legally open for highway licenses vehicle. The purpose of the route is to allow extended, low-speed, adventure-touring through the upper portion of the State of Minnesota. Tim informed the board that there is a bill going through for the maintenance cost to counties for the maintaining of the roads. They will be having a public meeting on February 13th at the Lake of the Woods School.

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting approval to Advertise, Interview and Hire Heavy Equipment Operator and to Purchase a Mower.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to authorize Public Works Director, Tim Erickson and Human Resource Director, Savanna Slick to advertise, interview and hire a Heavy Equipment Operator at grade 11, step 1, points 265 and $19.93 per hour.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of a Land Pride Mower RC5014 in the amount of $20,600 less trade in of $8,500 as budgeted.

Larsen Partial Drainage Abandonment Petition

The board discussed the options for the Larson Petition for Partial Drainage Abandonment.  With this being a Joint Ditch with Lake of the Woods, Beltrami and Koochiching County this petition will have to be heard by the Joint Ditch Authority.   It was the consensus of the County Board to direct Public Works Director, Tim Erickson to visit with Mr. Larsen and explain the options available to him with the drainage abandonment and potential road vacation.  Tim will report back to the board following his conversation.

Badger Road

The board discussed the maintenance of the Badger Road.  It was the consensus of the County Board as a temporary solution to snowplow the road until a final resolution could be resolved.  This will be added to the March 12, 2019 county board agenda.

MIS

MIS Director, Peder Hovland met with the board for approval for the County’s Security Policy.  It was the consensus of the County Board to approve the policy with their full support of the MIS Director in regards to the policy and the training for all employees, including disabling accounts if applicable.

Motion

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

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Chairman Hasbargen called the meeting to recess at 11:55 a.m.

Attest:                                                                                      February 26, 2019

__________________________________                            _________________________________County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson                                Chairman of the Board, Cody Hasbargen

========================================================================================================================================================================

Commissioner Proceedings

February 26, 2019

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February     26, 2019 in the ITV room at the Lake of the Woods School.

High School Social Studies teacher, Mr. Don Krause

Mr. Don Krause thanked the Commissioners for meeting at the School so his students could attend and participate in the meeting.

Call to Order

Chairman Hasbargen called the meeting to order at 8:30 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Joe Grund, Cody Hasbargen, Ed Arnesen and Jon Waibel. Absent, Buck Nordlof.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Janet Rudd, County Attorney, James Austad and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Grund, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Minnesota Department of Administration- Fleet and Surplus Service Division.  

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Grund and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of February 12, 2019.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Social Services Supervisor, Jodi Ferrier, met with the board requesting approval for claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $4,837.41, Commissioners Warrants $726.14, Commissioners Warrants $11,178.37.

COUNTY AUDITOR/TREASURER

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims, appointment to the Board of Adjustment Committee, approval for Engagement letter for 2018 year-end audit with Hoffman/Philipp & Knutson and approval to enter into the MN Department of Administration Fleet and Surplus Service Division.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Grund, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows: Revenue-$16,337.13-Road & Bridge-$4,112.15-Solid Waste-$2,980.62–EDA-$325.00.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/26/2019 For Payment 2/28/2019

Vendor Name                                        Amount

Lakes Gas Co                                                             2,163.36

North Star Garage Door of Baudette                          2,448.91

Sun Monitoring                                                            2,082.00

44 Payments less than 2000 17,060.63

Final Total: 23,754.90

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following Auditor warrants: February 13, 2019-$100,609.19.

Board of Adjustments Committee Member

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Grund and carried unanimously to appoint Wes Johnson to the Board of Adjustments committee.

Engagement Letter

Motion was made by Commissioner Grund, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to authorize Chairman Hasbargen to sign the letter for year-end Audit services with Hoffman/ Philipp and Knutson for 2018 year-end audit.

MN Surplus

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to authorize Chairman Hasbargen, County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson, Public Works Director, Tim Erickson, Social Service Director, Amy Ballard and County Sheriff, Gary Fish to sign the signature card for Federal and /or State Surplus Property.

FRIENDS AGAINST ABUSE

Friends Against Abuse, Jenell Feller, Program Director met with the board and students to inform them of the services that are available for those experiencing domestic violence and to help make it faster and easier for victims of domestic violence and their friends /family.

AMEND AGENDA

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to amend the agenda and add Northwest Emergency Communications Board appointment.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to appoint Emergency Management Director, Jill Olson to the NWECB committee.

PINE TO PRAIRIE TASK FORCE

Officer Carl Hultman, and Detective, Joe Morisch met with the board and gave a background on what the Pine to Prairie Task force is all about. The force has a 13- member task force that works across state lines.

TOWARD ZERO DEATH

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson, District State Aid Engineer Lou Tasa, Michelle Rognerud, MnDOT District 2 Traffic Engineer and Lieutenant Brad Norland met with the board and presented a power point and information on the Towards Zero Death Task Force.

COUNTY ROAD 33

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board to discuss the CR 33 Path.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the construction of path on CR 33.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 11:15 a.m. and reconvened at 12:36 p.m. as follows:

NORTHERLY PARK

Northwest Angle Edge Riders President, Joseph Laurin met with the board to review the Northerly Parks plans. Joe discussed the board walk vs the wetland issues, the Tower height of proposed tower, insurance and the Welcome Center staffing.  

BORDERLAND SUBSTANCE ABUSE COURT

Honorable Judge LeDuc, County Attorney, James Austad, DWI Court Coordinator, Amanda Zortman, met with the students and explained the process and the purpose of the Borderland Substance Abuse Court.

ROD AND GUN CLUB

Rod and Gun Club President, Robert Laine met with the board to discuss the lease with the county for the land for the Rod and Gun Club. Robert stated that they would like to lease the forty (40) acres -eastern half for sporting clays. Commissioners Hasbargen and Nordlof, County Attorney, James Austad and Robert Laine will review the lease agreement and bring back to the board.

ARENA BOARD

Mike Schulz and Derek Olson from the Lake of the Woods International Arena met with the board to update the board on the progress of the Arena and gave the board a tour of the Arena.

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Chairman Hasbargen called the meeting to recess at 3:25 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                      March 12, 2019

__________________________________                _____________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson                    Chairman of the Board, Cody Hasbargen