February 9, 2021

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.

One Watershed, One Plan Suggested Boundary Map

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.

One Watershed, One Plan Suggested Boundary Map

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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

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

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

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

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

  1. 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 (22nd Ave NW).

  1. 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.

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

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

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

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

  1. 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.

  1. Are the affected public waters suited to and able to safely accommodate the types, uses, and numbers of watercraft that the project proposal will generate? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A ( )

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

  1. If the project proposal includes above ground or below ground storage tanks for petroleum or other hazardous material that is subject to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) requirements, has a permit been sought?                                                YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?  The proposed use will not include storage tanks.

  1. 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.

  1. If signage is associated with the project proposal, has the applicant demonstrated the need for the number and size requested, and minimized the visual appearance as viewed from adjacent properties to the extent possible?                                                                             YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?  There will be no signage associated with the proposed use.

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

                                                                                                     YES (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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

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

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

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

    YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

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

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

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

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

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

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

  1. 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.

  1. Are the affected public waters suited to and able to safely accommodate the types, uses, and numbers of watercraft that the project proposal will generate?                                               YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A ( )

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

  1. If the project proposal includes above ground or below ground storage tanks for petroleum or other hazardous material that is subject to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) requirements, has a permit been sought?                                                                                                     YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?  The proposed use will not include storage tanks.

  1. 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.

  1. If signage is associated with the project proposal, has the applicant demonstrated the need for the number and size requested, and minimized the visual appearance as viewed from adjacent properties to the extent possible?                                                                                                      YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?  There will be no signage associated with the proposed use.

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

                                                                                                                  YES (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

February, 2020

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 10th 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

February, 2019

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

February, 2018

Commissioner Proceedings

February 13, 2018

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Ken Moorman, Cody Hasbargen, Buck Nordlof, Ed Arnesen and Jon Waibel.  Also present were: Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Janet Rudd, County Attorney, James Austad and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Department Heads Evaluation, Approval to Hire Dispatch, Beaver Removal Cost.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of January 23, 2018.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval for claims, Contract and Credit Card. Amy introduced newly Hired Child Support Officer, Bryan Hasbargen and Social Service Protection Officer Jennifer Hovde to the board.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $8,436.21, Commissioners Warrants $21,113.06, Commissioners Warrants $10,294.14.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the contract between Lake of the Woods County Social Services and Life-Care-Roseau for the provision of Clinical Supervision for 2018-2019.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Waibel to approve the Lake of the Woods contract with Friends Against Abuse for Supervised Services for 2018-2019.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve a county issued credit card for Social Service Protection Officer Jennifer Hovde.

COUNTY AUDITOR/TREASURER

Claims

Deputy Auditor/Treasurer, Janet Rudd met with the board requesting approval of claims, and approval to appoint member to Extension Committee.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows: Revenue-$107,745.97-Road & Bridge-$19,533.86-Co.Development-$22,500.00-Solid Waste-$31,171.87–EDA-$7,787.41.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/13/2018 For Payment 2/16/2018

Vendor Name                                                    Amount

Air Med Care Network                                                        16,474.00

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                                 5,829.71

Computer Professionals Unlimited Inc                                  3,432.00

Cps Technology Solutions                                                    2,988.70

Dell Marketing, Lp                                                               12,011.34

Forks Freightliner                                                                  3,040.20

HotsyMinnesota.Com                                                            2,141.66

Howard’s Oil Company                                                         4,566.15

Information Systems Corporation                                         8,238.00

LOW Area Industrial Development Corp                               7,142.85

LOW Fair Association                                                        25,000.00

LOW Highway Dept                                                              7,442.50

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                                    17,285.50

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                               2,060.00

Roger’s Two Way Radio, Inc                                              13,034.56

Widseth Smith Nolting&Asst Inc                                         23,583.33

Woody’s Service                                                                  4,111.53

71 Payments less than 2000 30,357.08

Final Total: 188,739.11

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following Auditor warrants: January 24, 2018-$161,565.22-January 31, 2018- $105,110.33-Febuary 2, 2018- $210,573.21-Febuary 8, 2017- $14,905.32.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to appoint Sandy Peterson to Lake of the Woods Extension Committee.

SHERIFF

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting approval for Mutual Aid Agreement.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to authorize County Sheriff, Gary Fish to enter into the Mutual Aid Agreement pursuant to MN Statutes 471.29 and authorize Chairman Arnesen to sign.

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY TO ENTER INTO LAW ENFORCEMENT MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT

2018-01-04

WHEREAS; the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff accepted the plan for a mutual aid agreement with the law enforcement agencies in northern Minnesota -the intent of which is to make equipment, personnel and other resources available to political subdivisions from other political subdivisions for law enforcement purposes.

WHEREAS; this agreement is consistent with statute MS. 12.331 LOCAL ASSISTANCE TO POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED; that Lake of the Woods County enters into a Law Enforcement Mutual Aid Agreement with other law enforcement agencies for the mutual benefit of the public safety of all citizens in the state of Minnesota.

HUMAN RESOURCES

Human Recourse Director, Savanna Slick met with the board and requested approval for Law Enforcement Job Descriptions, grade and steps and discuss non-elected Department Heads evaluations.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the Jail Administer Job description at grade 10.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve Sandy Peterson as the Jail Administrator at grade at 10, step 7, $21.21 per hour, points 237, with night differential pay, effective February 25, 2018.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the Sergeants Job description at grade 14.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve two Deputy Sheriffs, as Sergeants at grade 14, step 6, $25.98 per hour, points 349.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to fill vacant Dispatch position with applicants from the Dispatch list.

Non-Elected Department Head Evaluations

Human Resource Director, Savanna Slick met with the board to discuss the evaluations for the Non-Elected Department Heads. The board set a work session for February 21, 2018 at 9:00 a.m. to review the evaluation process.

Recess

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

ARENA BOARD

Mike Schulz, representing the Arena Board met with the board and updated them on their fundraising campaign, informed the board that the purchase agreement for the land at the school is complete and the projected date for breaking ground for the arena is set for May 1, 2018. Mike requested funding in the amount of $150,000 with five years to pay ($30,000 per year). Chairman Arnesen asked if the Arena board could meet with them again on February 27 so the board could review their request.

SWCD

Resource Technician, Mike Hirst met with the board and updated them on the “Keep it Clean Committee”, and discussed how the Wheel Houses are leaving behind trash, and the economic loss that comes with them.

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and informed the board that the Buffer Cost Share Grant will be expiring on March 1, 2018, and if not used it will have to be sent back. Josh encouraged the board to let their constituents know that there is available funding for buffer expenses.

MIS/GIS

MIS/GIS Director, Peder Hovland, and GIS Specialist, Eric Solo met with the board and informed the board that the State of MN is requiring to get all the addresses to standard addressing. With this mandate by the State, it will effect well over eight(80) residents in Lake of the Woods County, and the County will be entering into Joint Powers agreements with the City of Baudette and City of Williams for 911 addressing. The board requested that the office send out letters notifying the households and will set a meeting date to meet with them to go over the States 911 Mandates of addressing. Peder and Eric also discussed the Pictometry images, which takes virtual tours of properties, high resolution digital images which will save valuable time. It will also assist with E911, Fire Departments, Community Planning, Environmental Assessments and Development, Engineering, Transportation/Utilities and Law Enforcement. Pictometery Intelligent Images costs for two flights over six years would be $179,175.85. Eric will get in touch with Pictometery Intelligent and request a change of the second flight and come back to the board next meeting with an updated pricing. The consensus of the board was to approve up to $35,835.17 for six years.

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Hearing- Five Year Plan

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting at 11:50 a.m. and open the Public Hearing for the Public Works Department Five Year Road Plan. Public Works Director, Tim Erickson reviewed the five year work plan with the board. Dave Marhula questioned why Township Road number 80 was not on the five year plan. Tim explained that the 5 year plan details how we intend to use State Aid funds.  Since the County cannot use State Aid funding on roads off of the State Aid system, the Township Roads aren’t included in this plan.  However, as the TR 80 project has been in development for the past few years, it will be moving forward with Township funding this year.   

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting at 12:37 p.m. and open the regular meeting.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the five year construction plan as presented.

Resolution

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

 RESOLUTION NO. 18-02-05

BRIDGE REPLACEMENT, REHABILITATE, OR REMOVE

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

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

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

Old              Road           Total          Township or           Federal            Local or         Proposed

Bridge          Number        Project      State Bridge           Fund               State Aid        Construction

Number       or Name       Cost           Funds                                           Funds             Year                

92647        CR 77        $140,000.00    $70,000.00                            $70,000.00          2018

92633        CR 69        $160,000.00    $80,000.00                            $80,000.00          2019

                         CSAH 31       $100,000.00        $50,000.00                                         $50,000.00               2020

7255          CSAH 8     $900,000.00    $600,000.00                          $300,000.00         2021

7581          TR 83        $160,000.00    $80,000.00                            $80,000.00          2022

R0622        TR 53        $160,000.00    $80,000.00                            $80,000.00          2023          

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

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

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Waibel, and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of a Motor Grader, which includes a packer and a ripper in the amount of $281,560 as budgeted.

Tim informed the board that one mile brushing will be done on Ditch 24 with cost approximately $10,480 and should be completed by March 24. Commissioner Moorman requested cost associated to Beaver Control for the Joint Powers Resource Board, for they are gathering this information to present to the State Legislatures.

CLOSED SESSION

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting at 12:48 p.m. and open the closed session pursuant to MN Stat§ 13D.05, subd 3(b), Attorney Client Privileges. Members present: Commissioners Arnesen, Hasbargen, Moorman, Waibel and Nordlof. Others present: County Attorney, James Austad.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to close the closed session and open the regular meeting at 1:30 p.m.

Correspondence

The board reviewed correspondence from Rinke Noonan Law Firm.

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 1:31 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                      February 27, 2018

__________________________________                            _________________________________Deputy Auditor/Treasurer, Janet Rudd                          Chairman of the Board, Edward Arnesen

Commissioner Proceedings

February 27, 2018

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February     27, 2018 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 Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Ken Moorman, Cody Hasbargen, Ed Arnesen and Jon Waibel. Absent, Buck Nordlof.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Janet Rudd and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Cell phone stipend and Data security breach.  

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of February 13, 2018.

BORDERLAND SUBSTANCE ABUSE COURT

Honorable Judge Leduc, County Attorney, James Austad, DWI Court Coordinator, Amanda Zortman, Court Reporter, Lisa Havluck, and Probation Officer, Alison Hauger met with the students and explained the process and the purpose of the Borderland Substance Abuse Court.

PINE TO PRAIRIE TASK FORCE

Alesso Schroage, 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 and Lieutenant Brad Norland met with the board and presented a power point and information 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:

TOWER SPACE LEASE

Lee Hervey, with Voyageurs Comtronics met with the board along with Jim Behrens requesting authorization for Pieper Farms to place a GPS portable base station on the county tower. Lee explained that the county owns the land and tower, but the county does have an easement with Pieper Farms, and therefore suggested that there be no charge for the tower lease.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval for claims and cell phone stipend.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $300.00, Commissioners Warrants $272.31, Commissioners Warrants $23,373.79, Commissioners Warrants $4,047.61,Commissioners Warrants $19,410.52.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve a cell phone stipend for Social Worker, Jennifer Hovde in the amount of $60.00 per month.

COUNTY AUDITOR/TREASURER

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims, and informed the board that the Lake of the Woods Women of Today applied for an application to conduct excluded Bingo, which will take place on November 17, 2018 at the Lake of the Woods School, which she approved on February 21, 2018.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows: Revenue-$24,406.35-Road & Bridge-$12,692.08-Co.Development-$200.00-Solid Waste-$1,245.72–EDA-$895.41.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/27/2018 For Payment 3/02/2018

Vendor Name                                                    Amount

Code 4 Services LLC                                                           3,508.43

Lavalla Sand & Gravel Inc                                                    9,000.00

Management Association Inc                                               3,918.75

Mort’s Outdoor Sports                                                          6,010.44

TOTALFUNDS                                                                       2,000.00

47 Payments less than 2000 15,001.94

Final Total: 39,439.56

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following Auditor warrants: February 13, 2018-$88,109.88.

DNR

Baudette Area Wildlife Supervisor Scott Laudenslager, Red Lake Area Wildlife Manager Gretchen Mehmel and Assistant Manager, Charlie Tucker met with the board and reviewed the past accomplishments and current projects in Lake of the Woods County.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

City of Baudette Mayor, Rick Rone and Chamber of Commerce President, Mike Hovde met with the board requesting funding for the Willie Walleye Replacement Campaign. They informed the board that the idea of the statue of Willie Walleye started in April of 1958, and total cost to construct was $2,000 and was dedicated during the Walleye Days in June of 1959.  The fundraising goal for Replacing Willie is $110,000 and with the City of Baudette share of $39,898.75 they have raised $70,017.75, the committee is requesting a donation from the county of $30,000 to $40,000.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to appropriate $30,000 payable in three year payments of $10,000 per year starting 2018-2020to the Willie Walleye Replacement Campaign from the Con-Con funds.

ARENA BOARD

Mike Schulz, Derek Olson and Keith Block met with the board to discuss the request of funds from February 13 board meeting. Mike informed the board since last meeting they have secured more funding for the new arena.  The board discussed the funding request from the last meeting.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to appropriate $200,000 to the New Arena, payable in five year payments of $40,000 per year starting 2018-2022 with the funding to go towards the Ice Plant/Coolant system, with funds from the Con-Con account.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 2:25 p.m. and reconvened at 2:30 p.m. as follows:

HUMAN RESOURCES

Human Resource Director, Savanna Slick met with the board and informed them that Amber Hahn was hired as Part-time Dispatch and Emily Tiedemann was hired as full time Dispatch.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the hiring of Amber Hahn as Part-Time Dispatch at grade 10, Step 1, points 237, $ 18.67 per hour, effective March 3, 2018.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the hiring of Emily Tiedemann has full time Dispatch at grade 10, Step 3, points 237, $19.51per hour, effective March 11, 2018.

Security Breach Protocol

Human Resource Director, Savanna Slick informed the board that there are some changes to be updated in the Security Breach Protocol Policy and will bring back to the board when completed.

Sergeants

Motion was made by Commissioner Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the appointment of Ben Duick as Lake of the Woods County Deputy Sheriff/Deputy Coroner and Sergeant effective March 11, 2018 at Grade 14, Step 6, points 349, $25.98 per hour.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the appointment of Brad Abbey as Lake of the Woods County Deputy Sheriff/Deputy Coroner and Sergeant effective March 11, 2018 at Grade 14, Step 6, points 349, $25.98 per hour.

Facility Coordinator Position

Human Resource Director, Savanna Slick met with the board to discuss the Facility Coordinators Step, she informed the board that the candidate that was chosen for this position counteroffered his step to be able to consider this position.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve grade 9, step 7, $20.03 per hour, for Facility Coordinator Position effective March 25, 2018.

MIS/GIS

MIS/GIS Director, Peder Hovland and GIS Specialist, Eric Solo met with the board to further discuss the Pictometery Master Product Agreement between Pictometery and MCCC and Lake of the Woods County.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the down payment of $8,855.75 from the 911 account for the Pictometery services.  

EXCUSED FROM MEETING

Chairman Arnesen excused himself from the meeting at 3:30 p.m. to attend AMC conference in St. Paul.

SWCD

SWCD Resource Technician, Mike Hirst met with the board and reviewed the 2017 County Feedlot Officer Annual Report.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to authorize Vice Chairman, Cody Hasbargen to sign the 2017 County Feedlot Officer Annual Report.

Buffer Law

SWCD Resource Technician, Mike Hirst met with the board to discuss the Local Water Plan and informed the board that the Buffer Law requires County officials to incorporate the Summary of Watercourses in to the Local Water Plan.

Resolution

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

Resolution to Incorporate the Summary of Watercourses

Into the Lake of the Woods County

Comprehensive Local Water Management Plan

2018-02-06

Whereas; Minnesota Statutes Chapter 103F.48 requires soil and water conservation districts (SWCDs) in consultation with local water management authorities, to develop, adopt, and submit to each local water management authority within its boundary a summary of watercourses.

Whereas; The Board of Water and Soil Resources has adopted Buffer Law implementation Policy #6 ‘Local Water Resources Riparian Protection (“Other Watercourses”)’ which identifies steps SWCDs are required to take in developing said inventory.

Whereas; Lake of the Woods SWCD has adopted a Descriptive/List inventory of other watercourses and provided it to Lake of the Woods County on “February 27, 2018”.

Whereas; Lake of the Woods County recommends that implementation of buffers or other practices on these waters be voluntary in nature through the Comprehensive Local Water Management Plan.

Whereas; Minnesota Statutes Chapter 103F.48 requires a local water management authority that receives a summary of watercourses identified under this subdivision must incorporate an addendum to its comprehensive local water management plan or comprehensive watershed management plan to include the SWCD recommendations by July 1, 2018.

Whereas; Minnesota Statutes Chapter 103F.48 does not require a plan amendment as long as a copy of the included information is distributed to all agencies, organizations, and individuals required to receive a copy of the plan changes.

Therefore be it resolved that; the summary of watercourses or “other waters” for Lake of the Woods County shall be incorporated as an addendum in its current local water management plan.

Be it further resolved that; Lake of the Woods County authorizes staff to provide a copy of the addendum and any supporting information to be distributed to all agencies, organizations, and individuals required to receive a copy of the plan changes.

One Watershed One Plan Update

SWCD Resource Technician, Mike Hirst informed the board that the Advisory & Policy Committee met jointly and discussed the One Watershed One Plan to discuss the plan that lays out the framework and goals of work to be done.

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Vice -Chairman Hasbargen called the meeting to recess at 3:50 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                      February 27, 2018

__________________________________                _____________________________________

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

February, 2017

Commissioner Proceedings

February 14, 2017

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 14, 2017 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

Call to Order

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

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Tourism Bureau Liaison, Set-Up License, State Boat and Water Grant, Closed Session- Union.   

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of January 14, 2017.

SOCIAL SERVICES

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

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrant’s $18,973.08, Commissioners Warrant’s $14,233.15.

AUDITOR/TREASURER

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $59,099.75, Road & Bridge $43,556.12, County Devel.$1,515.00 , Solid Waste, $38,410.62 Solid Waste, $38,410.62,  EDA,$3,285.29.

       WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/14/2017 For Payment 2/17/2017

Vendor Name                                                    Amount

Applied Concepts, Inc                                                          2,417.50

B&B Plumbing & Heating Inc                                                 8,800.00

Cdw Government, Inc                                                           2,668.87

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                                7,243.74

Computer Professionals Unlimited Inc                                3,760.00

Hoffman, Philipp & Knutson, PLLC                                      2,500.00

Howard’s Oil Company                                                         3,844.72

Information Systems Corporation                                       6,968.00

Lakewood Health Center                                                       5,780.00

LOW Master Gardener                                                          2,071.96

Mactek Systems Inc                                                               3,062.00

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                                     15,902.50

Northern Light Region                                                          2,703.00

Northwoods Heating & Cooling                                         11,155.00

Nw Mn Household Hazardous                                             4,113.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                               3,060.20

Sun Monitoring                                                                      2,490.50

Swanston Equipment Corp                                                  8,988.86

Woody’s Service                                                                    5,044.68

94 Payments less than 2000  43,292.25

Final Total: 145,866.78

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: January24, 2017 – $412,434.86, February 1, 2017- $84,582.97 – February 1, 2017- $134,041.72- February 6, 2017 $63,752.02, February 7, 2017-$22,501.59.

Set-Up License

County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson met with the board and requested approval for a set-up license for Ships Wheel Resort.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve a State Issued Set-Up license for Ships Wheel Resort effective April 1, 2017- March 31, 2018.

Tourism Bureau

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board and informed the Board that Tourism Director, Joe Henry was inquiring about who will be the contact person on the board that he can contact. Commissioner Arnesen stated that he would be the contact person for the Tourism Bureau.

4-H- Horse Club 

Jennifer Strohl, representing the 4-H Horse Club met with the board to discuss the Panels for the Horse Arena.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of panels for the Horse Arena in the amount of $4,176, plus sales tax, if applicable from the County Development Fund.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to amend the Agenda and add “Snowmobile Trail” Committee to the agenda.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to add “Snowmobile Trail Committee to the Commissioners Committee list”.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Waibel and carried unanimously to appoint Commissioner Nordlof and Hasbargen to the Snowmobile Trail Committee.

ESRI  LICENSE AGREEMENT

MIS Director, Peder Hovland met with the board requesting updating the current individual license with ESRI to an enterprise license agreement, which will give the county increased licenses for all departments and will give more tools to expand the GIS to help department’s productivity.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the license upgrade with ESRI, with first year payment of $15,000 from the Enhancement fund, second year payment of $20,000 and third year payment of $25,000 (allocations to be decided).

PROWEST

MIS Director, Peder Hovland met with the board requesting approval for ProWest for updates to the Point and Pay Integration with LINK,

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the updates for the Point and Pay with ProWest in the amount of $1,455.20 from the revenue fund.

SHERIFF

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting approval to enter into a 2017 State of Minnesota Annual County Boat and Water Safety Grant Agreement.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Waibel and carried unanimously to enter into the 2017 State of Minnesota Annual Boat and Water Grant in the amount of $11,240, effective January 1, 2017 thru June 30, 2018 and authorize County Sheriff, Gary Fish and Chairman Nordlof to sign.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 10:55 a.m. and reconvened at 11:00 a.m. as follows:

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting approval to purchase a new Motor Grader.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of a new Motor Grader in the amount of $372,220 from the Highway Fund.

Ditch 26 and Land and Water Planning

Ditch 26 discussion and Land and Water Planning Office was moved to February 28, 2017 agenda.

Drug Court

Honorable Judge LuDuc met with the board to discuss the background of the Drug Court; he explained that it is a problem solving court with intense supervision of its clients. Judge LuDuc informed the board of the funding for 2017, which includes grants, donations from counties and cities. At this time, the court is short $25, 000 and they are looking for a donation from the county. He explained that the State is allocating 3.3 million dollars, and if it goes through, we can expect approximately $130,000 for the Lake of the Woods and Koochiching County Drug Court.

CLOSED SESSION

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting at 11:55 a.m. pursuant to MN Statute MN Stat. § 13D.03, subd.1(b), Labor Negotiations. The following members were present: Commissioners Nordlof, Waibel, Arnesen, Hasbargen and Moorman. Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson, Human Resource Director, Savanna Slick, and Public Works Director Tim Erickson.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to close the close session at 12:37 p.m.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to open the regular meeting at 12:38 p.m. The board met with Union Representatives and presented a proposal.

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Chairman Nordlof called the meeting to recess at 12:44 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     February 28, 2017

__________________________________                            _________________________________County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson                            Chairman of the Board, James Nordlof

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

Commissioner Proceedings

February 28, 2017

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 28, 2017 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

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

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Keep it Clean, dismiss Cartway Hearing and MN Court Data Services.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of February 14, 2017.

SOCIAL SERVICES

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

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $8,680.18, Commissioners Warrants $2,974.21, Commissioners Warrants $5,881.06.

COUNTY SHERIFF

Dispatch

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board and informed the board that the Dispatch Schedule will change with two permanent full time dispatcher that will work only the night shift and two that will only work the day shift and requesting that the designated night shift dispatchers receive a .75 cent per hour increase.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the night deferential pay for designated permanent full time employees working the night shift as dispatch, to increase hourly rate by .75 cents per hour.

Deputy Sheriff/On Call Pay

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting an adjustment for on call pay for Deputy Sheriffs.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to authorize to increase the annual stipend from $520.00 to $754.00, for all full-time Deputy Sheriffs for on-call pay.

Court Data Services

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting approval for the master Subscriber Agreement for Minnesota Court Data Services for court records and documents to carry out their duties.

Resolution

AUTHORIZING THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE TO THE MN GOVERNMENT ACCESS SYSTEM

Resolution No. 17-02-01

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

WHEREAS, the new Minnesota Government Access Accounts, allowing government agencies to view appropriate electronic court records and documents stored in the Minnesota Court Information System for cases in Minnesota District Courts, require authorization from the governing body.

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

  1. Approve and authorizes Gary Fish, Lake of the Woods County Sheriff, to sign the Master Subscriber Agreement for Minnesota Court Data Services for Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office.
  2. The Lake of the Woods County Sheriff, Gary Fish is also authorized to sign any subsequent amendment or agreement that may be required by the State of Minnesota to maintain the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office connection to the systems and tools offered by the State.
  3. That the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff, Gary Fish is the designated Authorized Representative for Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office.
  4. That Commissioner Arnesen, the Vice- Chairman of the County Board, and Lorene Hanson, the Lake of the Woods County Auditor/Treasurer is authorized to sign this Resolution.

Deputy Sheriff- Part Time

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting authorization to advertise for Part-time Deputy Sheriff.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to authorize County Sheriff, Gary Fish to advertise for Part-time Deputy sheriff.

TOWARD ZERO DEATH PRESENTATION

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson, Holly Kostrzewski, Northwest Minnesota Regional Toward Zero Deaths Coordinator, District State Aid Engineer Lou Tasa and Lieutenant Brad Norland met with the board and presented a power point and information on the Towards Zero Death Task Force.

VETERANS SERVICE OFFICER

Veterans Service Officer, Rick Rone met with the board and updated them on the Veterans Service program in Lake of the Woods County. Rick informed the board that they are in the process of working on a design for a Veterans Service Memorial and will be meeting with Mrs. Carlson class on March7th.

HUMAN RESOURCES

Human Resource Director, Savanna Slick met with the board requesting per union negotiations  authorization for step increases for Cooper Mickelson and Todd Canfield.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Waibel and carried unanimously to approve two steps increase for Cooper Mickelson from Grade 12, step 6 to step 8, $23.69 per hour, points 274, effective March 12, 2017. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve one step increase for Todd Canfield from Grade 10, step 4 to 5, 19.95 per hour, points 237, effective March 12, 2017.

KEEP IT CLEAN

The board discussed spring fishing and the need of a Keep It Clean Dumpster at Frontier Landing. The board concurred with the request and asked Mike Hirst if he could take care of the moving on of the dumpster over.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 11:15 a.m. and reconvened at 11:20 a.m. as follows:

DNR

Baudette Area Wildlife Supervisor Scott Laudenslager and Red Lake Area Wildlife Manager Gretchen Mehmel met with the board and reviewed the past accomplishments and current projects in Lake of the Woods County.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Uniform Allowance

Emergency Management Director, Jill Olson met with the board requesting a Uniform Allowance for Emergency Management in the amount of $100.00.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve a uniform allowance for Emergency Management in the amount of $100.00 per year.

Satellite Phones

Emergency Management Director, Jill Olson met with the board requesting authorization to cancel the Satellite Phones.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to authorize Emergency Management Director, Jill Olson to cancel the two Satellite Phones.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 12:15 p.m. and reconvened at 12:50 p.m. as follows:

SWCD

SWCD Resource Technician, Mike Hirst met with the board to review the following:

  • 2016 Feedlot Program Report,
  • Buffer Update
  • Drainage System Grants
  • Lake Shore Stabilization Projects

LAND AND WATER PLANNING DIRECTOR/COUNTY SURVEYOR

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund and County Surveyor, Donn Rasmussen met with the board to discuss the Benchmark Survey. They informed the board that the last time this was completed was in 1996. The survey maintains an accurate and uniform system of elevation reference marks on a common vertical datum for monitoring and gauging the lake level and for planning purposes.  County Surveyor, Donn Rasmussen will contact other agencies involved and will meet with the board on March 28 with a confirmed quote for this project.

AUDITOR/TREASURER

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $27,925.54, Road & Bridge $10,121.30, Solid Waste, $24,942.89, EDA,$6,565.83.

       WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/28/2017

Vendor Name                                                    Amount

Dell Marketing, Lp                                                                     4,168.00

Hasler                                                                                      4,000.00

Headwater Regional Development Commiss                           6,111.97

KRIS Engineering Inc                                                                3,250.36

North East Technical Service,Inc                                             2,063.50

Roger’s Two Way Radio, Inc                                                   5,443.00

Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc                                                 22,471.04

60 Payments less than 2000  22,047.69

Final Total: 69,555.56

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: February 15, 2017 – $22,180.54, February 23, 2017- $2,279.05.

Drug Court Funding

County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson met with the board to discuss the request for funds for the Lake of the Woods Drug Court from February 14 meeting.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve funding of $25,000for the Lake of the Woods Drug Court. ($15,000 as budgeted an additional $10,000, with funding from Revenue fund.)

Post Prom

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board and informed the Board that Post Prom committee requested $100.00 for the Post Prom Party.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to contribute $100.00 to the post prom committee as budgeted with funding from the revenue fund.

Tveit Cartway Hearing-Dismissal 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Hasbargen and carried unanimously to cancel and dismiss Byron Tviet Cartway Hearing that was scheduled for 2:30 p.m., as the parities were able to come to an agreement as per Tviets Attorney, Nora Crompton.

 RECESS

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

Attest:                                                                                      March 14, 2017

__________________________________                            _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson                                Vice-Chairman of the Board

                                                                                                  Edward Arnesen

February, 2016

Commissioner Proceedings

February 9, 2016

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 9, 2016, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Moorman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Buck Nordlof, Tom Hanson, Patty Beckel, Ken Moorman and Ed Arnesen.  Also present were:  County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Janet Rudd and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions:  Copy machine, Deputy Sheriff, Joint Housing meeting.

APPROVAL of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda as follows: Jodi Ferrier to attend Leadership Core Series in East Grand Forks on March 24-25, April 21-22, May 26-27, June 23-24 and December 1-2;

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of January 26, 2016.

AUDITOR/TREASURER

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

Revenue                      $ 21,535.82

Road & Bridge           $ 15,413.35

                                                Solid Waste                $ 17,801.73

EDA                            $     817.93

                                      55,568.83

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/9/2016 For Payment 2/12/2016

Vendor Name                                        Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                              6,518.23

Computer Professionals Unlimited Inc           3,693.00

Howard’s Oil Company                                      3,125.67

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                  11,809.00

Mn Rural Counties Caucus                               2,100.00

Wallwork Truck Center                                      2,240.36

Woody’s Service                                               2,275.39

57 Payments less than  2000    23,807.18

Final Total: 55,568.83

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

                                                January 28, 2016                    $    2,233.60

                                                February 3, 2016                   $   85,960.20

                                                $ 88,193.80

County Credit Card

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval to issue a County credit card to Appraiser Trainee, Whitnie Reasy.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to authorize Appraiser Trainee Whitnie Reasy a County credit card for official county business.

Liquor License

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval for an On-Sale/Sunday Liquor license and 3.2 off sale malt liquor for Flag Island Resort LLC.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer to issue an On-Sale/Sunday Liquor license and 3.2 off sale malt liquor for Flag Island Resort LLC, effective January 1, 2016 thru June 30, 2016.

MCCC Service Agreement

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting authorization to enter into a Professional Service Agreement with MCCC.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the Professional Service Agreement between Lake of the Woods County and MN Counties Computer Cooperative and Trimin Systems Inc. for maintenance and support for the IFS effective January 1, 2016 thru December 31, 2018.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Social Service Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims:

                                                            Commissioners’ Warrants $ 18,497.25

                                                            Commissioners’ Warrants $ 24,337.85

Timber Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously  to amend the agenda and add closed session at 9:40 a.m. pursuant to MN Statute §13D.05, subd. 3(b), Attorney Client Privileges to discuss Timber Contract.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the closed session and open the regular meeting at 9:50 a.m.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to authorize Chairman Moorman to sign the Timber Contract with Levasseur Timber Sales, Project Number 4521.

HUMAN RESOURCE DIRECTOR

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board and informed the board that the MIS department’s job descriptions were reviewed by MRA. The IT Tech job description was graded at step 10, points 238 and a salary range between $17.94- $22.38 per hour; GIS job description was graded at step 12, points 283, and salary range between $20.05- $25.04 which included working with various departments for GIS responsibilities, (at this time, this position has been unable to do these duties). MIS Directors job description was graded at step 19, points 435, and salary range from $29.72 to 37.23, increased points by 20 due to adding the duties of Maintenance Supervisor to this job description.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the MIS Directors job description at Grade 19, points 435, step 3, $31.09 per hour, effective January 12, 2016; if the Maintenance Supervisor duties leave the MIS Directors position, the grade will revert back to grade 18, points 415; if another positon is hired for IT Tech, the MIS Directors step will move to step 4, $31.77 per hour effective of date of hire.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the IT Tech position at grade 10 , points 238, salary range from $17.94- $22.38.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to leave the GIS grade at 11, when the duties of the GIS changes with GIS responsibilities, MIS Director will need to come back to the board for changes of duties.

Employee Performance Review

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board to review the Employee Performance Review form. The consensus of the board was that the form was acceptable.

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Land and Water Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board requesting a colored copy machine for his department due to the change in his office area.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to enter into a lease agreement with Marco for copy machine for the Land and Water Planning Office.

SWCD Position

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board to discuss the SWCD positon which would blend with the county’s Public Works/Land and Water and NRCS with help with drainage, county road ditch systems and surveys. Grant funds are available at this time thru SWCD for two years. If funding gets cut, Josh asked if the County would consider partly funding this position. The consensus of the board was that they support SWCD board’s decision of hiring this position.

MIS/SHERIFF

MIS Director/Maintenance Supervisor Peder Hovland and County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board to discuss Law Enforcement complex and long term planning. The consensus of the board was for them to proceed with long term planning of the Law Enforcement Complex.

COUNTY SHERIFF

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting approval to move Deputy Sheriff, Russ Platz to full time at forty (40) hours per week as long as a Deputy Sheriff serves on the Task Force; once a Deputy Sheriff no longer serves on the Task Force, this position would move back to 30 hours per week.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve Deputy Sheriff, Russ Platz to full time at forty (40) hours per week, effective February 14, 2016 as long as a Deputy Sheriff serves on the Task Force; once a Deputy Sheriff no longer serves on the Task Force, this position would move back to 30 hours per week.

ADRIANS RESORT

Brian Ney, representing Adrian’s Resort met with the board to discuss winter road access that the resort has provided for 25 years. Brian explained that they previously went  out at Wheelers Point area and were asked many years ago by a previous Commissioner to move to the current access that they are at now due to the congestion at the other access. The board indicated to continue as is for now to allow them time to research prior actions and research the property lines and options available.

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board to discuss County Road 33 storm sewer. Tim explained with the Wheelers Point Sanitary District construction in progress that this would be a good time to place a storm sewer in that area.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to amend the five year project plan to include CR 33 storm sewer.

JOINT HOUSING MEETING

Commissioner Beckel was asked if the County Board would be interested in holding a Joint Housing Meeting with the City of Baudette and the EDA. She will get back with the board when the dates are finalized.

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Moorman called the meeting to recess at 12:45 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved: February 23, 2016

__________________________________                                        ______________________________

Lorene Hanson, County Auditor/Treasurer                                        Kenneth Moorman

                                                                                                          Chairman of the Board

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

Commissioner Proceedings

February 23 2016

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 23, 2016, in the ITV room at the Lake of the Woods School.

Call to Order

Chairman Moorman called the meeting to order at 9:05 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Patty Beckel, Thomas Hanson, Ed Arnesen, Buck Nordlof, and Ken Moorman.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor /Treasurer Janet Rudd, County Attorney, James Austad and Woody Fiala.

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.

Introduction

Chairman Moorman gave a brief description of the duties of County Commissioners.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Lake of the Woods International Arena and Pequana Play House flyer.

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda as follows: Heather Blodgett to St. Cloud on February 22-23 for MN Choices Mentor Meeting; Leah Larson to Minneapolis on March 15-18 for MSSA Conference; Christine Hultman and Jodi Ferrier to St. Cloud on May 17-18 for SSIS MAPCY Training; Craig Severs to St. Cloud on June 10 for MN County Attorneys Association Child Support Conference;

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of February 9, 2016.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows: Revenue $ 21,284.98, Road & Bridge                    $23,319.74, Co. Develop $ 800.00, Solid Waste$8,218.66,EDA$ 1,782.00.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/23/2016 For Payment 2/26/2016

Vendor Name                                                    Amount

Information Systems Corporation                                   6,923.00

John Deere Financial                                                       2,419.13

Levasseur/Steve                                                                  2,150.62

Little Falls Machine, Inc                                                     3,907.47

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                           3,107.60

Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc                                           2,845.62

Ziegler, Inc                                                                        14,929.80

51 Payments less than 2000       19,122.14

Final Total:   55,405.38

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: February 10, 2106 $11,698.77, February 16, 2016 $130,654.70, February 17, 2016 (125.80), February 17, 2016 $5,958.19, February 17, 2016 $31,278.17.     

Schrandt Cartway

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval to set a public hearing for continuance for the Shrandt Cartway.

Resolution

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to set the Continuance of a Public Hearing for David and Mary Schrandt Cartway for March 22, 2016 at 11:00 a.m.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to authorize Chairman Moorman to sign the Order/Notice for Continuance of Public Hearing for David and Mary Schrandt cartway.

MN Department of Administration

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval for signatures for the MN Department of Administration to allow purchase through the Fleet and Surplus Service Division.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to authorize Chairman Moorman, 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.

Set-Up License

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval for a Consumption and Display Permit for Ships Wheel Resort.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the Consumption and Display Permit for Ships Wheel Resort effective April 1, 2016 thru March 31, 2017 issued by the State of Minnesota.

SOCIAL SERVICES

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

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county as follows: Commissioners Warrants: $10,358.00 and $5,427.97.

SWCD

SWCD Resource Technician, Mike Hirst met with the board to review the 2015 Feedlot Program Report.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the 2015 Feedlot Program Report from January 1, 2015 thru December 31, 2015 and authorize Chairman Moorman to sign.

HUMAN RESOURCE DIRECTOR

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board requesting approval of the Data Practices Policy for Members of the Public and Data Practice Policy for Data Subjects. Karen explained that IPAD developed sample policy guidance to meet the new requirements in Minnesota Statutes, section 13.05, subd. 5, which is to include a model policy, related to ensuring appropriate access to not public data.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to adopt the model policy that IPAD created for Policy of Members of Public and Data of Subject and authorize Chairman Moorman to sign the notice of Adoption of Model Policies.

MIS DIRECTOR

IT Technician

MIS Director, Peder Hovland met with the board requesting approval to advertise, interview and hire for an IT Technician.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the MIS Director, Peder Hovland to advertise, interview and hire for an IT Technician position at grade 10, step 1, $17.34 per hour, points 238.

Mail Boxes

MIS Director, Peder Hovland met with the board requesting approval to purchase 20 additional mailbox licenses.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to authorize MIS Director, Peder Hovland to purchase 20 additional mailbox licenses in the amount of $1,556 from the MIS budget.

DNR

Baudette Area Wildlife Supervisor Scott Laudenslager and Red Lake Area Wildlife Manager Gretchen Mehmel met with the board and reviewed the past accomplishments and current projects in Lake of the Woods County.

HEADWATER REGIONAL DEVEOPMENT CENTER

HRDC Economic Development Director, Ryan Zemek met with the board to discuss the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) which is a new way to finance energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades to buildings of commercial property owners. Ryan explained that state law allows local units of government to enter into joint powers agreement to create a PACE program. The board requested that Ryan meet with County Attorney, James Austad and County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson to discuss and review the joint powers agreement.

FRIENDS OF ZIPPEL BAY PARK

Tom Heinrich, representing Friends of Zippel Bay Park met with the board to discuss the possibility of the “Friends of Zippel Bay Park” to assist in grooming the ski-trails. Chairman Moorman received information from Acting Regional Manager, NW Region –Parks and Trails Gary Hoeft in regards of a Memorandum of Understanding to allow the Friends Group to work under the umbrella of the Lake of the Woods County to allow them to groom the trails at Zippel Bay State Park. County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson explained to the board that these volunteers would not be eligible to be under the counties workers compensation; however they would be covered by general liability coverage.

GREAT NORTHERN TRANSMISSION LINE

Project Manager, Jim Atkinson met with the board and informed them that the preferred blue route was approved. The next step will be the right-away field activities to land owners and engineering designs for field surveyors to access property owner’s lands. Project completion date is June 1 2020.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 11:55 a.m. and reconvened at 12:40 p.m. in the Commissioners Room as follows:

TOWARD ZERO DEATH PRESENTATION

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

PUBLIC WORKS

Vehicle Purchase

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting authorization to purchase a pickup for the highway department and informed the board that he is looking into a cell booster for the highway department.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of extended cab pickup in the amount of $27,618.50.

Highway 11 Update

District State Aid Engineer, Lou Tasa discussed the upcoming State Highway 11 construction with the board.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 2:10 p.m. and reconvened at 2:24 p.m. as follows:

CLOSED SESSION

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting at 2:30 p.m. and open the closed session pursuant to MN Stat. § 13D.05, Subd. 3(b), Attorney Client Privileges to discuss Wetland Mitigation. The following were in attendance: Commissioners Arnesen, Nordlof, Hanson, Beckel and Moorman. County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson and County Attorney, James Austad. Wetland Mitigation Attorney, John Kolb via conference call.  SWCD board members: Russ Hansen, John Sonstegard, Roger Krause, Frank Sindelir and Nancy Dunnell. SWCD Staff, Mike Hirst and Josh Stromlund.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to close the closed session and open the regular meeting at 4:00 p.m.

JERRY AND SHARON KROHN

Land owners Jerry and Sharon Krohn met with the board and informed them that back in 1969 that the Legislatures passed a law to include there land within the designated Zippel Bay State Parks Boundary. They attempted to get this land removed from within the park boundary in 2014, but at that time the Parks Division of the DNR refused their request. Krohn’s asked the board for support on having their parcel of land deleted from the legislative boundary.

The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and carried unanimously the following resolution:

Resolution No. 15-02-01

DELETE LAND FROM LEGISLATIVE BOUNDRY OF ZIPPEL STATE PARK

WHEREAS, in 1969 Legislature of the State of Minnesota enacted Chapter 85.012.61, History Item 1969  C 879 S 1,  State parks;  Subdivision 1. Acquisition of lands. The lands described in this section are added to the boundaries of the designated state parks, waysides, and recreational reserves and the commissioner of administration for the commissioner of conservation is authorized to acquire by gift, purchase, or if expressly authorized by law, by condemnation proceedings the lands as described. Any land which now is or hereafter becomes tax-forfeited land and is located within the described park boundaries is hereby withdrawn from sale and is transferred from the custody, control, and supervision of the county board of the county to  the commissioner of conservation, free from any trust in favor of the interested taxing districts. The commissioner shall execute a certificate of acceptance of the lands on behalf of the state for such purpose and transmit the same to the county auditor of the county for record as provided by law in the case of tax-forfeited land transferred to the commissioner by resolution of the county board for conservation purposes. Any lands within the herein described boundaries which may be owned by the United States and managed by any of its agents may be acquired by land exchange, direct transfer, or purchase as federal laws may prescribe. The lands acquired pursuant to this section shall be administered in the same manner as provided for other state parks and shall be perpetually dedicated for such use.

WHEREAS, Subd. 13. Zippel Bay Recreation Reserve, Lake of the Woods County; states all of the Northwest Quarter of the Southeast Quarter of Section 10; all of Government lot 3 of Section 11; all of the South Half of the Northwest Quarter and the Northwest Quarter of the  Northwest Quarter of Section 14; all in Township 162 North, Range 33 West;

WHEREAS; all of the Northwest Quarter of the Southeast Quarter of Section 10 was sold to the State of Minnesota in 1961; all of Government Lot 3 of Section 11 was sold to the State of Minnesota in 1971; all of the Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 14 was sold to the State of Minnesota in 1973; all in township 162 North, Range 33 west;

NOW THERFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, upon request of current Land Owner hereby request the State Legislators delete all of the south half of the northwest quarter of section 14, Township 162 North, Range 33 West located in Lake of the Woods County from the boundaries of the Legislative designated Zippel Bay State Parks reserve.

CORRESPONDENCE

The boards acknowledge the following: Pequana Play House and Lake of the Woods International Ice Arena.

Recess

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

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: March 8, 2016

_______________________                                                  _________________________________

Lorene Hanson,                                                                       Chairman of the Board, Ken Moorman

County Auditor/Treasurer      

February, 2015

Commissioner Proceedings

February 10, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 10, 2015 in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners, Ken Moorman, Patty Beckel, Ed Arnesen, Tom Hanson and Buck Nordlof.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor, Janet Rudd and Linwood “Woody” Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: exempt gambling permit, credit card approval, purchase of computer rack, SEH short term lease – boring update and HRDC housing survey.

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Brock Stebakken to Duluth on April 1 for MPCA HHW Safety & Health; Barry Bailey, Todd Canfield and Ted Furbish to Bagley on March 18 for MPCA HHW Safety & Health Refresher training; Todd Canfield to Willmar on April14-16 for MPCA HHW Safety & Health Initial training.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of January 27, 2015.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims:

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                                Revenue                      $ 90,399.85

                                                Road & Bridge           $ 29,903.85  

                                                Co. Devel.                   $      200.00

                                                Solid Waste                 $ 84,977.98

                                                EDA                            $        13.23

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/10/2015 For Payment 2/13/2015

Vendor Name Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                             6,320.92

Computer Professionals Unlimited Inc                           5,801.18

Cps Technology Solutions                                              2,989.00

Headwater Regional Development Commiss                 2,500.00

Howard’s Oil Company                                                      4,834.61

Information Systems Corporation                                    6,923.00

Lakewood Health Center                                                   7,009.77

Liberty Tire Recycling, LLC                                               2,245.50

Mactek Systems Inc                                                         10,709.50

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                                    9,345.00

Mn Dept of Natural Resources                                        15,935.55

Mn State Dept-Correction                                                15,177.01

Nelson’s Collision Center (Dba)                                       3,948.96

Nw Mn Household Hazardous                                          4,923.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                            4,265.30

Rtvision Inc                                                                       16,390.00

Swanston Equipment Corp                                             59,109.00

Woody’s Service                                                                5,094.24

64Payments less than 2000  21,973.37

Final Total:  205,494.91

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

                                                January 27, 2015         $        875.21

                                                January 30, 2015         $   23,250.83

                                                February 4, 2015         $     7,716.94

MN Heartland Tourism Association

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting authorization to pay MN Heartland Tourism Association membership dues.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to authorize payment of $275.00 for membership dues to MN Heartland Tourism Association dues.

Exempt Gambling Permit

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval for Northwest Angle Edge Riders to conduct a raffle at Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge on March 7, 2015.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the Lawful Gambling permit for Northwest Angle Edge Riders to conduct a raffle on March 7, 2015 at Sportsman’s of Oak Island Lodge.

COUNTY ATTORNEY

County Attorney, James Austad met with the board requesting authorization for a credit card.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve a credit card for County Attorney, James Austad.

MIS DEPARTMENT

MIS Director, Peder Hovland met with the board requesting authorization to purchase a Rack for the computer room.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously for MIS Director, Peder Hovland to purchase a computer rack in the amount of $4,000 from the MIS account.

HRDC HOUSING SURVEY

Commissioner Hanson handed out a Housing Survey for each Commissioner to complete.

SOCIAL SERVICES

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

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

Commissioners Warrants        $ 14,256.50

                                                  Commissioners Warrants        $   2,644.26

                                                  Commissioners Warrants        $        43.13

S E H

Chairman Arnesen informed the board that the county needs to request a grant from the MN Department of Transportation, Office of Aeronautics for the continued planning efforts related to the potential NWA airport. Short term lease and boring reports were reviewed.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to authorize Chairman Arnesen to sign the grant request letter to the MN Department of Transportation, Office of Aeronautics for the potential NWA airport.

HUMAN RESOURCES

Retention Schedule

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board to discuss Human Resources retention schedule. The board placed this on the February 24, 2015 agenda for further discussion.

Policy and Procedure Manual

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose discussed the Personal Policy that is in a PDF file on the web, and was wondering if they would like to see the policy hyper-linked. Karen informed the board that she has not spoken with the MIS department but wanted to inquire with the board on their thoughts.  The board requested that Karen talk with the MIS department to see what details are involved with this project.

Performance Evaluations/Orientation Program

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose informed the board that she attended a webinar on Public Employees Evaluation, and that public employees can challenge their  evaluations  under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. Karen also discussed an orientation program for newly hired employees. The consensus of the board was for her to move forward with the orientation program. The board requested Karen to look into updating the Performance Evaluation forms.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 9:55 a.m. and reconvened at 10:04 a.m. as follows:

BAUDETTE ARENA ASSOCIATION

Barry Westerlund, representing the Baudette Arena Association met with the board to discuss the probable 2015 Mighty Duck grant and requested that the county board write a letter of support to Senator Skoe and Representative Hancock. The board concurred and requested that County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson draft a letter on their behalf. Barry also commented that if the grant is awarded that he would request the county be the Fiscal Officer.

PREVENTION COALITION

Program Director, Tammie Doebler met with the board and updated the board on the Federal Government grant called “Drug Free Community”, if received the grant funding would be for five years. The new grant would be targeted on substance youth underage drinking and marijuana use.  The grant requires a one to one match of in kind service.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously  allow Lake of the Woods County to apply for a Federal Drug Free Grant, partner and enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Prevention Coalition if the grant is received  and allow County Attorney, James Austad to be the Program Director. If grant is received the county would hire a program coordinator and provide a fiscal agent officer.

COUNTY ATTORNEY

County Attorney, James Austad discussed a Social Host Ordinance with the board. The board tabled this until the February 24, 2015 meeting.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 10:55 a.m. and reconvened at 11:01 a.m. as follows:

PUBLC HEARING- FIVE YEAR ROAD CONSTRUCTION PLAN

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the Public Hearing at 11:01 a.m.

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson reviewed the following construction plans:

FIVE YEAR CONSTRUCTION PLAN

                                                                              2016

CSAH 14- Bituminous Overlay

CSAH 49- Grading

CR 77- Bridge Replacement(BR 92647)

CR 51- Chip Seal

CR52-  Chip Seal

                  2017

CSAH 3- Bituminous Overlay

CSAH 6- Bituminous Overlay

CSAH 31- Culvert Replacement

                   2018

CSAH 2- Bituminous Overlay

CSAH 2- Culvert Replacement

Various – Municipal Sidewalks

                   2019

CSAH 3- Bituminous Overlay

CSAH 19-Chip Seal

                   2020

CSAH 8- Bituminous Overly

Dave Marhula, Don Smith, Dale Holte and Don Holte discussed their erosion soil problems due to the excessive water. The board requested that Public Works Director, Tim Erickson have a hydraulic study done on HWY 72 and bring back to the board in a month from now.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously carried to close the public hearing and open the regular meeting at 11:58 p.m.

PUBLIC WORKS

Five Year Bridge Plan

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting approval of the Five- Year Bridge plan.

Resolution

15-02-01

Five Year Bridge Plan

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

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

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

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

Old Bridge NumberRoad NumberTotal ProjectTownship or State Bridge FundsFederal FundsLocal or State AidProposed Construction
92647CR 77$140,000.00$70,000.00$70,000.002016
CSAH 31$  90,000.00$45,000.00$45,000.002017
L9510CR 147$120,000.00$60,000.00$60,000.002020

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

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

Hydraulic Jack

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting approval to purchase a Hydraulic Jack that was budgeted for 2015.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to authorize Public Works Director, Tim Erickson to purchase a hydraulic jack, as previously approve within the 2015 budget.

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 12:04 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: February 24, 2015

___________________________                                          _________________________________

Lorene G. Hanson                                                                   Edward Arnesen

County Auditor/Treasurer                                                       Chairman of the Board

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

Commissioner Proceedings

February 24, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 24, 2015, in the ITV room at the Lake of the Woods School.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:01 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Patty Beckel, Thomas Hanson, Ed Arnesen, Buck Nordlof, and Ken Moorman.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor /Treasurer Janet Rudd and Woody Fiala.

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.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Travel for Heather Blodgett.

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Heather Blodgett to Brainerd on March 9-11 for SSIS training.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of February 10, 2015.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                           Revenue                              $    18,435.12            

                                                Road & Bridge                    $    16,862.22

                                                Co. Develop                        $      1,984.00

                                                Nat Resc Enhanc                 $         976.00

                                                Solid Waste                         $      2,562.34

                                                EDA                                    $      1,040.10

                                                                               41,859.78

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/24/2015 For Payment 2/27/2015

Vendor             Name                                        Amount

Black Box Corporation                                      $  3,233.21

Compass Minerals America                                 7,576.58

Holen Electric                                                         3,655.00

Mn Rural Counties Caucus                                    2,100.00

North East Technical Service,Inc                         2,181.00

NOVA Fire Protection, Inc                                     2,000.00

Wallwork Truck Center                                         2,253.70

54 Payments less than 2000                                                20,010.29

Final Total:                                                         $43,009.78

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

                                                February 13, 2105                  1,171.34

February 13, 2015            $111,437.20

February 19, 2015            $117,413.63

February 19, 2015            $    3,859.03

February 19, 2015            $  14,893.47                      

Lost Warrant

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval for a lost warrant for the Northwest Angle Fire Department.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the application and affidavit for lost warrant for the Northwest Angle Fire Department date March 29, 2013 for $2,649.21 without furnishing indemnify bond.

Approval of Credit Card and Phone Stipend

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval for a credit card and phone stipend for Social Worker Heather Blodgett.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve a county issued credit card for Social Worker Heather Blodgett.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, second by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve a cell phone stipend in the amount of $60.00 per month to Social Worker, Heather Blodgett.

Cigarette License

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval for a cigarette license for Hards LLC, DBA B&R Bait & Tobacco.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the cigarette license for Hard’s LLC, DBA B&R Bait & Tobacco, effective February 24, 2015 and expiring on June 20, 2015.

Social Services Director

Claims

Social Services Financial Officer, Christine Hultman, met with the County Board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 10,308.40

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 14,020.44

DRUG COURT

Lisa SanteeProblem Solving Court Coordinator met with the board and updated them on the DWI Court. Lisa informed them that the DWI court started in 2007, has saved many dollars by participants that enroll in the DWI court vs jail time; recidivism is fewer after individuals participate in this  program.

SWCD

2014 Feedlot Report

Mike Hirst, SWCD Resource Technician, met with the board and presented the 2014 Annual County Feedlot Officer Report.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to authorize Chairman Arnesen to sign the 2014 Annual County Feedlot Officer Annual Report and Performance Credit Report as presented.
2014 Annual Report of Activities

Mike Hirst, SWCD Resource Technician, met with the board and reviewed the following activities: Wetland Conservation Act-Cost Share Programs-Water Plan-Watershed Management-Water Quality Monitoring-Large Lake Issues-Shoreline Restoration- Assistance-Local, State, and Federal Policy Making-Forestry and Tree Sales-Engineering Assistance-Accountability and Reporting- AgBMP Program, Low Interest Loans for Water Quality-Wildlife Habitat-Invasive Species Management-Historical Data Preservation Community Involvement and Education

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Conditional Use

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and presented a Conditional Use Permit request from Sean Westman to conduct a commercial business consisting of a winter ice fishing guide service with sleeper houses in a Low Density Residential District. Josh reviewed the findings and fact with the board and informed the board that the Planning Commission recommends to the County Board to approve the request as presented. No comments were heard from the floor and a letter of opposition was acknowledged.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously  to approve the Conditional Use Permit for Sean Westman to conduct a commercial business consisting of a winter ice fishing guide service with sleeper house with conditions.

  Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Sean Westman                                                    Date:  February 24, 2015

Location/Legal Description:   The SE¼NE¼SE¼, Less Deeded of Section 26, Township 162N, Range 32W (Wheeler Township), Parcel #19.26.41.030

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting a conditional use permit as required by Section 401.C of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to allow a commercial business consisting of a winter ice fishing guide service with sleeper houses in a Low Density Residential District.

  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?  Control business in residential 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?  Addresses concerns beforehand.

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 (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Not adversely but will require some tree removal.

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not?  No change.

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

Why or why not?  With proper buffer.

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 (  )  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?  See conditions.

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

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

Why or why not?  Must meet DOT requirements.

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?  Business done elsewhere, site for storage.

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. Cannot see fish houses from highway.
  2. Must be twenty (20) feet from property lines to protect neighbor’s property.
  3. No more than twenty (20) fish houses stored on site.
  4. No habitation during storage.

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

_____________________________________

                                                                                                            Edward Arnesen

                                                                                                        Chair, County Board

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

HUMAN RESOURCES

Retention Schedule

Human Resources Director, Karen Ose met with the board and reviewed the Human Resource Retention Schedule. Karen recommended that this schedule be approved.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the Human Resources Records Retention Schedule as presented.

PUBLIC WORKS

Advertise for Bids

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting authorization to advertise for bids for construction projects.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to authorize Public Works Director, Tim Erickson to advertise for bids for construction of S.A.P 039-601-028, S.A.P. 039-601-029, S.A.P. 039-627-004, Mill Bituminous Surface and Bituminous Surfacing with the bid opening to be held on March 23, 2015 at 2:00 p.m.

Work Session

Chairman Arnesen discussed possible dates to hold a work session with Public Works Director to discuss Road Inventory, 911 Ordinance and Clementson Property. Consensus of the board was to hold the work session on March 18 at 7:30 a.m. at the Public Works Department.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 11:40 a.m. and reconvened at 12:26 p.m.

SHERIFF

Permanent-Part time Deputy Sheriff

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting approval to hire a Permanent-Part time Deputy Sheriff.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to authorize County Sheriff, Gary Fish and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose to advertise for a Permanent- Part time Deputy Sheriff with minimum of 30 hours per week.

Donation of Vacation Time

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting approval for donation of vacation time to a Sheriff Department employee.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve donation of vacation day pursuant to Personal Policy, Chapter 4,1.j.

Emergency Management Director

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting authorization to hire Jill Olson for the Emergency Management position.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the hiring of Emergency Management Director, Jill Olson, and effective March 1, 2015 at grade 11, Step 2, $18.79 per hour.

COUNTY ASSESSOR

Lap Top

County Assessor, MaryJo Otten met with the board requesting approval to purchase a Lap Top computer for her office.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to authorize County Assessor, MaryJo Otten to purchase a Lap Top computer in the amount of $1,397.45 from the Assessors budget.

Assessment Specialist

Approval of Job Description and Authorization to Advertise

County Assessor, MaryJo Otten met with the board requesting approval for the Job Description for Assessment Specialist/Office Manager and authorization to advertise.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the job description for Assessment Specialist/Office Manager at grade 10.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Beckel to amend the agenda and add authorization to advertise for Assessment Specialist/Office Manager.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to advertise for Assessment Specialist/Office Manager for the Assessor’s Office.

COUNTY ATTORNEY

Social Host Ordinance

County Attorney, James Austad met with the board to discuss a Social Host Ordinance which discourages underage possession and consumption of alcohol, even if done within the confines of a private residence, and intends to hold persons criminally responsible who host events or gatherings where persons under 21 years of age possess or consume alcohol regardless of whether the person hosting the event or gathering supplied the alcohol. This ordinance would not apply to the cities within Lake of the Woods County. The consensus of the board was to have County Attorney, James Austad bring this back to the Prevention Coalition for further clarification.

ARENA ASSOICIATION LETTER

Chairman Arnesen presented the letter of support for the possible Mighty Duck Grant for the Baudette Arena Association.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to authorize Chairman Arnesen to sign the letter of support for the Baudette Arena Association.

CORRESPONDENCE

The board reviewed the 2015 Arrowhead Library Board budget.

COMMITTEE REPORT

Commissioner Moorman informed the board of the Joint Powers Natural Resource Committee meeting he attended and the discussion on the Aquatic Invasive Species.

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chair Beckel called the meeting to recess at 2:38 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: March 10, 2015

_______________________                                                  _________________________________

Lorene Hanson,                                                                       Chairman of the Board, Edward Arnesen

County Auditor/Treasurer      

February, 2014

Commissioner Proceedings

February 11, 2014

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 11, 2014 in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Beckel called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Buck Nordlof, Ken Moorman, Ed Arnesen, Patricia Beckel and Thomas Hanson. Also present were: Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd and Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the agenda with the following additions: Part Time Deputy Sheriff, Klein McCarthy Architects contract and Airport discussion. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the consent agenda as follows: Barry Bailey to attend a HHW Safety & Health Initial Training Seminar on April 22-24 in Willmar; Ted Furbish to attend MPCA Training Refresher on April 15 in St. Paul; Brock Stebakken to attend MPCA Training Refresher on April 3 in Duluth. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the minutes of January 28, 2014 regular meeting with changes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Chief Deputy Auditor Lorene Hanson met with the board for approval of claims:

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the claims as follows:

Revenue                      $   64,931.19 

Road & Bridge           $   29,607.91

Co. Develp                  $        984.00

Natl Resc Enhanc       $     4,137.39

Solid Waste                 $   12,300.57

EDA                            $     2,469.79

                                    $ 114,469.79

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/11/2014 For Payment 2/14/2014

Vendor Name                                                                      Amount

Anchor Marketing, Inc                                                    2,425.23

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                           9,069.50

Ferrellgas                                                                         4,992.18

Hoffman, Dale, & Swenson, Pllc                                    3,555.00

Howard’s Oil Company                                                   8,038.91

Information Systems Corporation                                 6,923.00

LaValla Electric DBA/Ned                                              11,338.66

Little Falls Machine, Inc                                                  4,771.13

LOW Soil & Water Cons. Dist.                                       4,000.00

Mn State Dept-Correction                                             15,259.37

Moren/Law Offices Of Patrick D                                    5,978.24

Powerplan                                                                        2,284.34

Wayne’s Body Shop-Dba                                              5,553.50

Woody’s Service                                                            5,214.03

64  Payments less than 2000   25,027.76

Final Total:  114,430.85

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

                                                January 28, 2014         $ 16,038.21

                                                January 28, 2014          $      463.07                                                                                                                February 5, 2014         $    5,940.37

February 5, 2014         $  82,713.27

                                                                                     $105,154.92

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

Pay Equity Report

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval for the 2014 pay Equity Report.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the 2014 Pay Equity Report as presented and authorize Chair Beckel to sign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Lost Warrant

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval for a lost warrant for Tammie Doebler.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the application and affidavit of a lost warrant for Tammie Doebler in the amount of $1,836.15 without furnishing and indemnifying bond. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

AMC for Support for Counties to Use Websites to Meet State Mandated Publishing Requirements

Chair Beckel informed the board that the Association of MN Counties are requesting counties to consider passing a resolution in support of allowing local government more flexibility to use websites to meet state-mandated publishing requirements. Last session, legislation was introduced that would allow, but not require, local governments to use their official website to publish official notices, proceedings and summaries. H.F. 1286/S.F.1152 was introduced late in the session in 2013 and not given a committee hearing, it will continue to be considered during the 2014 Legislative Session.

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION No. 14-02-01

A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING LEGISLATION ALLOWING COUNTIES TO DESIGNATE THEIR COUNTY WEBSITE TO PUBLISH PUBLIC NOTICES

Whereas; counties are currently required by law to publish public notices in a designated official newspaper for the county (Minn. Stat. § 331A); and

Whereas; counties are committed to providing information to citizens and increasing access to information about county operations and business; and

Whereas; citizens expect and demand information in an immediate format; and

Whereas; counties have limited resources and must utilize tax dollars in the most efficient way possible; and

Whereas; counties should have the authority to determine the best and most efficient method of communicating information to citizens based on citizen expectations; and

Whereas; counties are continuously improving and investing in technology to reach more citizens in a timely manner; and

Whereas; utilizing county websites to publish public notices would eliminate the time and costly burden of publishing in newspapers; and

Whereas;, county websites are increasingly the first place citizens look for information about their counties; and

Whereas;, the ability of county websites to provide citizens with up-to-date, detailed information exceeds that of print media

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the  Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners supports HF 1286 and SF 1152, legislation now before the 2014 legislature that would allow counties to publish certain public notices on their websites instead of, or in addition to, in an official newspaper.

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

Synthetic Drug Update

Deputy Auditor, Janet Rudd informed the board that she did contact Representative Erickson as requested and he informed her that there was a bill introduced in the house on Synthetic Drugs but it was not transmitted to the senate in the 2013 session.

Social Services

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board requesting approval for claims:

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

                                                Commissioner Warrants          $10,955.16

                                                Commissioner Warrants         $  7,966.30

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

Propane Update

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board and informed them that NWCA raised the fuel assistance from $500 to $1,000 to help with the increase of propane costs.

SWCD

Lake of the Woods Soil & Water Conservation District Resource Technician, Mike Hirst met with the board requesting the board to amend the Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Water Management Plan. Mike explained that this is a ten (10) year plan, and on occasion, the county needs to amend and revise their local water management plan.

Resolution

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

Resolution to Amend the Lake of the Woods County

Comprehensive Water Management Plan

Resolution No. 14-02-02

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

Whereas, the Act requires that a county amend and revise their local water management plan on a periodic basis, and

Whereas, the Act encourages that a county coordinate its planning with contiguous counties, and solicit input from local governmental units and state review agencies, and

Whereas, the Act requires that plans and official controls of other local governmental units be consistent with the local water management plan, and

Whereas, Lake of the Woods County has determined that the revision and continued implementation of a local water management plan will help promote the health and welfare of the citizens of  Lake of the Woods County, and

Now, Therefore, Be it Resolved, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners resolve to revise and amend its current local water management plan.

Be it Further Resolved that Lake of the Woods County will coordinate its efforts in the revision and amendment of its plan with all local units of government within the county, and the state review agencies; and will incorporate, where appropriate, any existing plans and rules which have been developed and adopted by watershed districts having jurisdiction wholly or partly within Lake of the Woods County into its local water management plan.

Be it Further Resolved that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners authorizes the Water Plan Committee with the responsibility of revising and amending the plan and who shall report to the County Board on a periodic basis.

Be it Further Resolved that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners delegates the Lake of the Woods County Soil and Water Conservation District the responsibility of coordinating, assembling, writing and implementing the revised local water management plan pursuant to M.S. 103B.301.

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

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 9:49 a.m. and reconvened at 9:55 a.m. as follows:

LakeWood Health Center

LakeWood Health Center Administrator, Jason Breuer met with the board to discuss the Recruitment and Dr. Retention Schedule that LakeWood and Lake of the Woods County have offered to newly recruited physicians and Nurse Practitioners in the past. The consensus of the board was to support the Retention Schedule and requested Jason to draw up a retention schedule for the County Board and County Attorney to review.

February 25, 2014 Board Meeting

Chair Beckel discussed the February 25, 2014 board meeting which will be held at the Lake of the Woods School and the high school class schedules to try to work around their class times. The board discussed having the meeting start with the first class that begins at 10:21 a.m.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to change the meeting time for February 25, 2014 board meeting to 10:15 a.m. to coincide with the class schedules at the school. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Assessor

County Assesor, Mary Jo Otten met with the board to discuss a letter that the Commissioner’s received from a constituent in regards to a complaint against her. Mary Jo verified what procedures she is required to follow and MN Statues that her office has to comply with for all resort properties to receive a substantial tax break, and that this property owner was not treated any differently than others who did not comply with MN Statues. The letter sent out by her office was a 2nd letter to resort owners that did not return the initial form mailed to them in December. It is not a requirement that her office send out reminders. The County Commissioners stated that they support County Assessor, Mary Jo Otten and acknowledge her for doing her job as their County Assessor.

PUBLIC WORKS

Clementson Property

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and presented a map of the Clementson Area land that the county has been looking into, to acquire and explained that the old road that runs through the property was acquired by a prescriptive easement by the State,  and the prescriptive easement does not take away the ownership of the property owner of this land, so the State  will have to research and find out who the last legal owner of this land was before they can go any further on conveying this land to the county.

Landfill

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson informed the board that they are having issues with the dozer and one side of the machine is broke down.  They are looking for used parts for the machine in hopes of being able to locate some.

 Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 11:20 a.m. and reconvened at 11:25 p.m. as follows:

SHERIFF

Part-time Deputy Sheriff

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting authorization to hire a Part-time Deputy Sheriff.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize Human Resource Assistant, Dena Pieper and County Sheriff, Gary Fish to advertise for a Part-time Deputy Sheriff. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

KLEIN MCCARTHY ARCHITECTS

Chair Beckel reviewed the Klein McCarthey Architects contract with the board. She informed the board that the contract was approved by County Attorney, Michelle Moren.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen for Lake of the Woods County to enter into an Architect Agreement with Klein McCarthey for the design, bidding and construction of an expansion to the Law Enforcement Center. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Wetlands

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and informed the board that they are in the final stage on mitigation for the wetland issues and that the Federal mitigation is the first step for the appeal process and then the second step would be to appeal to the State of Minnesota and the cost associated for legal services.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to authorize Land and Water Planning Director to retain legal services for the wetland appeal process from Rinke Noonan Law Firm up to $10,000 with the funding from the Environmental account. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 12:35 p.m. and reconvened at 12:40 p.m.

ANI PHARMACEUTICAL

Chair Beckel informed the board that Mike Reed, from the EDA office requested that the county board write a letter of support in regards to the possibilities of ANI purchasing some federal land for expansion for a warehouse. The consensus of the board was to authorize Chair Beckel to sign the letter of support.

AIRPORT COMMISSION UPDATE

Chair Beckel discussed the Airport Commission meeting and possible changes that need to be made due to the recent audit.

With no further business before the board, Chair Beckel called the meeting recessed at 12:56 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved:

____________________________                                        _______________________________

Janet E. Rudd, Deputy Auditor                                             Patricia Beckel, Chairman of the Board

February, 2013

Commissioner Proceedings

February 12, 2013

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 12, 2013. Chairman Hanson called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners, Thomas Hanson, Ken Moorman James “Buck” Nordlof, and Patty Beckel. Commissioner Ed Arnesen was absent due to other county obligations. Also present were: County Auditor John W. Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd and Brian Peterson.

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the agenda with the following additions: travel for Tim Erickson, Land Exchange, Gambling Permit, Legislative Conference, 2013 Wheeler Point Sewer District assessments, and DNR parks discussion. Remove the following: Sheriff, authorization to hire Deputy Auditor, and Great Northern Transmission Line. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the travel for the following: Tim Erickson to Brainerd on January 22-25 for Annual Engineer Conference. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Minutes

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel to approve January 22, regularly meeting with changes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

COMMITTEE REPORT

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid:

  • Building and Safety Committee- security of the GCN Building; camera; key pads that were installed when building was built;
  • Extension Committee: at your service training; tile training course

Commissioner Moorman

  • L/W Children’s Collaborative
  • Joint Powers Natural Resources- Aquatic Species, Task Force; Shoreland News; Wolf Hunt

Commissioner Nordlof

  • North County Land Use- new bill on PILT- inflation rates being considered for PILT payments

Commissioner Hanson:

  • DNR Parks Discussion on February 19, 2013 at 6:00 p.m. at the Ambulance Garage

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Social Services Financial Director, Christine Hultman met with the board requesting approval of claims:

Motion

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

                                                Commissioner Warrants        $   14,146.95                                                                                                     Commissioner Warrants        $   11,064.81

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

Cell Phone Stipend

Social Services Financial Director, Christine Hultman requested approval for a cell phone stipend for Jo Thoreson, Office Support Specialist/Transportation Coordinator.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the cell phone stipend for Jo Thoreson for the transportation program in the amount of $20.00. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Beckel and the same being put to a vote was, unanimously carried.

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board to discuss a Revolving Loan Fund for the MPCA Block Grant to help offset failing septic systems and to charge the user a low interest rate. The board requested Josh to pursue the Revolving Loan Fund with the Comprehensive land Use Committee.

WETLAND LETTER

Chairman Hanson and the board discussed the Williams Creek Wetland Restoration Project with Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 10:00 a.m. and reconvened at 10:07 a.m. as follows:

AMERICAN LEGION POST 217- FOREST

American Legion Post 217, Vice-Commander Steve Levasseur met with the board and presented the American legions Proposed Forest Plan as follows:

The board reviewed the plan and discussed the first (1st) line reading “Restrict Hunting” in the Legion Forest during deer seasons with County Attorney, Philip Miller. County Attorney, Philip Miller informed the board that they cannot “Restrict Hunting” in the Legion Forest. The board approved the above plan without the restriction of hunting.

NORTH COUNTRY BOARD OF HEALTH

Commissioner Moorman and Public Health Nurse, Michelle Brown met with the board and informed the board that the NCBH needs an Assistant to help with new grant requirements, Clearwater County will hire but requires a resolution to be passed from all the counties that are part of the NCBH  to help offset the cost if unemployment if that should occur. The distribution formula that is used for the State Local Public Health Grant will also be applied for the county obligation of the below resolution.  Beltrami 55%, Clearwater 13%, Hubbard 24%, and Lake of the Woods 8%. 

Motion

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

Unemployment Obligation for North Country County Assigned Employees

North Country Community Health Board

Resolution No. 13-02-01

Whereas, the counties of Beltrami, Clearwater, Hubbard and Lake of  the Woods have a Joint Powers Agreement to form the North Country Community Health Agency; and

Whereas, the North Country CHB does not have any employees; in as much as the recent grant administration has required the hiring of such employees to fulfill the grant requirements;

Therefore, Be It RESOLVED, that the County of Lake of the Woods in order to accomplish the business of the North Country CHB accepts the assignment of 8% of future unemployment costs as they arise for said employees.

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

AUDITOR

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

Claims

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

                                      Revenue                    $          52,776.08       

                                      Road & Bridge         $          29,540.79

                                      Co. Develop              $              200.00   

                                      Solid Waste               $         23,492.66 

                                      Sale/Forf lands          $              420.00        

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/12/2013 For Payment 2/15/2013

Vendor Name                                                           Amount

Cargill Incorporated                                                       7,442.58

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                           6,479.77

Dell Marketing, Lp                                                          5,515.04

First State Tire Recycling                                               2,693.60

Gary’s Auto                                                                      2,092.70

Headwater Regional Development Commiss               3,000.00

Hoffman, Dale, & Swenson, Pllc                                     3,555.00

Howard’s Oil Company                                                  5,894.93

Information Systems Corporation                                 7,276.74

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                               12,100.68

Mn Rural Counties Caucus                                            2,135.00

Powerplan                                                                       3,602.72

Quinlivan & Hughes, PA Attorneys at Law                    3,584.54

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                         2,292.65

Roseau County Cooperative Assn                               2,042.38

Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc                                        2,000.00

Woody’s Service                                                             4,783.70

76 Payments less than 2000   29,937.50

Final Total:   106,429.53

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

                                    January 18, 2013                     $    12,462.54

                                    January 24, 2013                     $      2,816.87

                                    January 25, 2013                     $  132,784.13

                                    January 30, 2013                     $    14,695.27

                                    January 31, 2013                     $      1,006.94

                                    February 6, 2013                     $  113,570.40

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

Lost Warrants

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval to issue lost warrants for Joe Morisch and Ryan Hockstedler.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel to approve the application and affidavit for lost warrant for Joe Morisch dated August 31, 2012 for $9.61 without furnishing indemnifying bond. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the application and affidavit for lost warrant for Ryan Hockstedler dated September, 16, 2012 for $15.96 without furnishing indemnifying bond. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

2013 Board of Appeal and Equalization “Catch-Up” Courses

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid informed the board that there will be classes forthcoming for Board of Appeal and Equalization training, which law requires that at least one voting member of each county is trained. John referenced the handout for locations and dates.

2012 Assessment Refund for Wheelers Point Sanitary District

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid presented a resolution from Wheelers Point Sanitary District board passed at their January meeting to refund John Fitzpatrick for assessments paid for 2012 in the amount of $420.00.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel to accept the Resolution from Wheelers Point Sanitary District to refund John Fitzpatrick assessment paid for 2012 in the amount of $420.00. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

2013 Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District Assessments

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid presented the resolution below to the board for the 2013 Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District assessments.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel to accept the resolution for 2013 Wheeler’s Point Sanitary Districts treatment system. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

RESOLUTION FOR

ADOPTION OF ASSESSMENTS FOR

WHEELER’S POINT SANITARY DISTRICT FOR 2013

RESOLUTION 2013-01-02

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners adopted the creation of a sanitary district for the Wheeler’s Point District on September 27, 2005, and

WHEREAS, the Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District recognizes the need for and supports the construction of a collection and treatment system to serve the district, and

WHEREAS, funds are needed for preliminary expenses and costs incurred in the process of creating the Wheeler’s Point Sanitary  District collection and treatment system, and

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District adopts the following annual assessments for the year 2013, to be adjusted annually:

              All parcels with a residential structure shall be assessed $420.00

             All parcels with a small business (Border Bait, Water’s Edge Salon, Lake of the Woods Taxidermy, TJ Prop Shop, Log Cabin Bait & Liquor – 2 assessments for two building)   shall be assessed   $420.00. 

             All parcels with a resort or lodging facility (Wigwam Resort, Wheeler’s Point Resort, Borderview Lodge, Adrian’s Resort, Riverbend Resort, Ballard’s Resort, Sportsman’s Lodge & Lakeroad Lodge) shall be assessed $2,665.00

              All mobile homes on a rental lot shall be assessed $420.00

The foregoing resolution was offered by Board Member, Alan Thompson and upon

a second by Board Member, Kent Spears,  was passed by the following vote.

Ayes: Gary Moeller, Alan Thompson, Kent Spears, Ron Stauss

Nays:  None

Absent: Brian Ney

Passed: 4-0

Northwest Angle Edge Riders Gambling Permit

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and presented an application for exempt permit for Northwest Angle Edge Riders to conduct a raffle on March 2, 2013.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel to approve the exempt permit application for Northwest Angle Edge Riders to conduct a raffle on March 2, 2013 at Sunset Lodge and authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to sign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimolys carried.

Minnesota Association of County Probation Officers (MACPO)

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and informed them that the Minnesota Association of County Probation Officers (MACPO) is actively seeking an increase in the legislative appropriation that reimburses 55 Minnesota counties for their probation officer salaries.  Minnesota Statute 244.19 subd. 6 require the legislature to appropriate sufficient funds to reimburse theses counties for 50% of their approved expenses.  The States last reimbursement was at the 31 % level. This level of funding has a direct negative impact on the 55 counties as they absorb the state funding shortfall.  MACPO is requesting the counties to pass of resolution to appropriate sufficient funds to reimburse the 55 participating counties for the full 50% of the cost of probation officer salaries.

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

Minnesota Association of County Probation Officers

Reimbursement for Probation Officers Salaries

Resolution No. 13-02-02

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes 244.19 subdivision 6 outlines a process for state reimbursement to participating counties of 50% of the previous year’s expenditure for their probation officer salaries, and

WHEREAS, 27 County Probation Officer counties and 28 Department of Corrections Contract counties participate in this process, and

WHEREAS, appropriations from the state have steadily decreased from 50% in 1996 to an all-time low of 31% in FY 2012, and

WHEREAS, the 55 counties participating in this process have been forced to absorb the $2,963,000 deficit in the FY 2012 reimbursement funding for their probation officers, and

WHEREAS, the 2013 legislative session will be establishing the FY 14 and FY15 appropriation for probation officer salary reimbursement for these 55 counties, and

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Association of County Probation Officers has been working with the Department of Corrections and legislative staff to ensure that an accurate FY 14 and FY 15 appropriation amount is determined, and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners strongly requests the 2013 Minnesota Legislature to appropriate sufficient funds to reimburse the 55 participating counties for the full 50% of the cost of their probation officer salaries.

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

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 11:07 a.m. and reconvened at 11:13 a.m. as follows:

HUMAN RESOURCES

Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen met with the board requesting authorization to hire Daniel Fish as the IT Specialist.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to authorize Human Resource Director and MIS/GIS Director, Peder Hovland to hire Daniel Fish as the IT Specialist effective    March 11, 2013 at grade 11 increment F; after a six month satisfactory probationary period to adjust his increment to G; and then January of 2014 to increment H.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting approval to purchase the following:

pickup, trailer with electric brakes, shear and used oil furnace

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel to authorize the Public Works Director to purchase a new 1/2 ton pickup in the amount of $22,000 for the Highway Department. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof to authorize the Public Works Director to purchase a new trailer with electric brakes in the amount of $5,600 for the Highway Department.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to authorize the Public Works Director to purchase a shear for the Highway Department in the amount of $2,500. The motion was seconded by Commissioner and Beckel the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Used Oil Furnace

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof to authorize the Public Works Director to purchase a used oil furnace in the amount of $9,000 with installation for the recycling center. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Submitted

Hire Heavy Equipment Operator

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting approval to advertise and hire for a Equipment Operator that is budgeted in his 2013 budget. Tim informed the board that when this position is filled that his Department would only require two (2) seasonal employees rather than three(3) and will reduce compensation time.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to authorize Public Works Director, Tim Erickson to advertise internally and interview. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

NWA Packer

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board informing them that the packer at the NWA Landfill is not working at all that has someone coming from Fargo to look at it with a cost of $95.00 per hour.

Local Road Research Board Technical Panel

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board informing him that Lou Tasa appointed Tim to the Local Road Research Board Technical Advisory Panel and there will be around three or four meetings to attend.

Correspondence

The following Correspondence was acknowledged: SNAP-ED

MN Heartland Tourism Association

The board discussed the MN Heartland Tourism Association member dues.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel to join the MN Heartland Tourism Association with the funding from the budgeted Revenue Fund in the amount of $275.00. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

RECESS

With no further business before the County Board, Chairman Hanson called the meeting to recess at 12:30 p.m.

Attest:                                                                         Approved: February 26, 2013

_______________________________                      ______________________________

John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor                          Thomas Hanson Chairman of the Board

Commissioner Proceedings

February 26, 2013

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 26, 2013, in the ITV room at the Lake of the Woods School for morning session and afternoon session in the Commissioners’ Rooms at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Hanson called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Patty Beckel, Buck Nordlof, Thomas Hanson, Ed Arnesen and Ken Moorman.  Also present were: County Auditor John W. Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, John Oren and Brian Peterson.

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.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof to approve the agenda with the following additions: Lorene Hanson and Josh Stromlund to St. Cloud on March 5-6 for Affordable Health Care Act, PERA resolution, vacation pay out and Blandin Foundation. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Tim Erickson to attend a Local Road Research Board TAP meeting on February 22, in St. Paul; Lorene Hanson and Josh Stromlund to St. Cloud on March 5-6 for Affordable Health Care Act. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel to approve the minutes of February 12, 2013, regular meeting with changes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

SHORT ELLIOTT HENDRICKSON INC. (S.E.H.)

S.E.H. Aviation Planner, Melissa Underwood, Engineers Benita Crow and Shawn McMahon met with the board and reviewed the initial feasibility study results for the NW Angle Airport, and also presented the next phase of the study if the board chooses to continue.  The board requested that S.E.H to attend the NWA Board Meeting on June 18, 2013 to present the current study.

LAKEWOOD HEALTH CENTER

Lakewood Health Center Administrator Jason Breuer met with the board and reviewed the Community Health Needs Assessment results that met on September, 2012. Jason suggested that they form a collaborative between Lakewood Health Center, Lake of the Woods County, City of Baudette and City of Williams to address the results of the assessment, for some of the concerns the community already offers. 

Social Services Director

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

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

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $  7,461.38

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $24,855.16

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

SWCD

Lake of the Woods Soil & Water Conservation District Resource Technician, Mike Hirst met with the board and presented the 2012 Annual County Feedlot Officer and Performance Credit Report and requested approval. Mike also updated the board on the Lake of the Woods ‘Keep it Clean’ campaign and thanked the board again for purchasing the dumpsters for the campaign.

Motion

SWCD

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to authorize Chairman Hanson to sign the 2012 Annual County Feedlot Officer and Performance Credit Report. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

COUNTY RECORDER

County Recorder, Susan Ney met with the board and informed them that Tyler Technologies hosts her office online subscription based service for viewing their index and printing documents. The other 10 MCIS counties all have different pricing plans. They are hoping to have a consistent pricing system in place as of March 1, 2013.

Motion by Commissioner Beckel to allow the County Recorder to establish the non-statutory fees for access to the iDoc Market online subscription for Lake of the Woods County as follows:

Proposed New Fee Structure for Idoc Market
Plan A – $50.00Plan B – $100.00Plan C – $200.00Plan D – $500.00 
100 free views200 free views400 free viewsunlimited free views 
$.80 per view thereafter$.75 per view thereafter$.70 per view thereafter 
$.35 per print$.35 per print$.35 per print$.35 per print 
Day Pass & Quick Pass (1 hour) 
Day Pass -$10.00Quick Pass – $6.00
5 free views2 free views
$1.00 per view thereafter$1.00 per view thereafter
$.50 per print$.50 per print

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

COUNTY AUDITOR

Claims

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board for approval of claims:

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof to approve the claims as follows:

                                                Revenue                               $    11,780.54           

                                                Road & Bridge                     $      4,859.03

                                                Solid Waste                          $      1,866.21

                                                EDA                                     $      7,441.18

                                                                                             $    25,946.96    

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/26/2013 For Payment 2/28/2013

Vendor Name                                 Amount

Anchor Marketing, Inc                      2,453.13

Cps Technology Solutions               2,330.61

Reed/Michael                                      4,100.00

45 Payments less than 2000    17,063.22

Final Total:   25,946.96

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

                                                   February 11, 2013           $   107,697.47

                                                   February 11, 2012           $      4,465.18

                                                   February 22, 2013           $    11,794.31      

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

Co-Op Purchasing

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval for signatures for the Department of Administration, to remain active in the State Surplus Property Program.

Motion 

The motion was made by Commissioner Beckel to authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid, Public Works Director, Tim Erickson, Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler, County Sheriff, Gary Fish and Chairman Hanson to sign the application for eligibility for Co-op Purchasing with Minnesota Department of Administration. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was, unanimously carried

Lake of the Woods Area Tourism Bureau

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and informed them that Lake of the Woods Tourism Bureau Director, Joe Henry requested that the board approve a resolution in support for increasing the annual auditor threshold pursuant to MN Statute§ 6.756,subd.2. By increasing the threshold would save $16,800 every five (5) years.

Resolution

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

Request for Increase of Lake of the Woods Tourism Bureau

Annual Audit Threshold Pursuant to MN Statute § 6.756, subd. 2

Resolution No. 13-02-03

WHEREAS,  Minnesota Statutes § 6.756 states Special districts must have an annual audit under if total revenues exceed the annual audit threshold and if they are not subject to financial auditing and reporting requirements under any other law, and

WHEREAS, as a small tourism bureau with annual tax revenues approximately $300,000, the annual audit requirement meant for larger county entities is overkill and not a wise use of taxpayer dollars, and

WHEREAS, lodging tax revenue is pulled through Lake of the Woods County, thus financial controls are already in place, and

WHEREAS, as a tourism bureau (Special District) the annual audit is excessive and vs the 5 year audit process costs taxpayers an extra $16,800 every 5 years.

Whereas, mandate proposals will be listed on the State Auditor’s website, along with the name of the local government submitting the proposal and

Whereas, Lake of the Woods County supports the concept of mandate reform and urges the Minnesota Legislature to give serious consideration to all proposals made by Cities, Townships, Counties and Special District like Lake of the Woods Area Tourism Bureau.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, Lake of the Woods County supports raising the threshold prescribed by the State Auditor in MN Statutes §6.756, subd. 2 to $500,000 and hereby adopts the following mandate proposals and directs the Lake of the Woods County Auditor to submit this listing to the State Auditor:

Mandate Relief Requested
Mandate Relief Requested Increase the annual audit threshold for special districts to $500,000. StatutoryMN Statues § 6.756, subd. 2 CommentsLake of the Woods Area Tourism will spend approximately $4,200 for the 2012 audit.  The threshold prescribed by the State Auditor for Special Districts requires significant expense. 

Adopted this 26th day of Feb.

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

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting authorization to sign the 2013 Environmental Monitoring Cost Estimate for Lake of the Woods County Resource Recovery Facility (SW-342). The 2013 costs are estimated at $14,032.50 and were prepared to fulfill the requirements listed in the Solid Waste Management Facility Permit.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to authorize Public Works Director, Tim Erickson to sign the 2013 Environmental Monitoring Cost Estimate for Lake of the Woods County Resource Recovery Facility. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motor Grader

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting authorization to purchase a motor grader for the department. Tim informed them that they are not getting a very big trade amount for the last grader that they are trading is twenty-five (25) years old, so it is over budget by $45,000 which will come out of the reserves. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize Public Works Director, Tim Erickson to purchase a new Motor Grader in the amount of $267,797 plus tax. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Five-Year Plan

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and presented the departments five year bridge plan.

Resolution

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

Five Year Bridge Plan

Resolution No. 13-02-04

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

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

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

Old              Road          Total          Township or          Federal           Local or         Proposed

Bridge         Number       Project      State Bridge          Fund               State Aid       Construction

Number       or Name      Cost           Funds                                          Funds                        Year               

                 CSAH 4   $150,000.00 $75,000.00                               $75,000.00          2013

39J23          CSAH 4  $120,000.00  $60,000.00                              $60,000.00          2013          

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

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

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

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 12:04 p.m. and reconvened at 1:15 p.m. at the Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room as follows:

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Board of Adjustments

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board informing them that the “Member at Large” on the Board of Adjustment Committee has a vacancy and will need to appoint a different member.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to appoint Steve Levassuer at the “Member at Large” to the Board of Adjustment Committee. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

SHERIFF

Emergency Management Director

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting the board to formally appoint Arlen Block as Lake of the Woods County Emergency Management Director.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to appoint Arlen Block as Lake of the Woods Emergency Director effective February 26, 2013. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Beckel and the same being put to a vote was, unanimously carried.

PERA RESOLUTION

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

County Board PERA Resolution

Police and Fire Member Transfer

Deputy Sheriff/Emergency Management

Resolution   2013-02-05

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes Section 353.64, Subdivision 5a permits the governing body of a governmental subdivision to continue membership in the Public Employees Police and Fire plan of a Police and Fire member who is transferred to a different position with associated police or fire department functions in the same department or a related department within the same governmental subdivision; 

BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Commissioners of Lake of the Woods County hereby declares that the position titled Deputy Sheriff/Emergency Management Director, currently held by Arlen Block meets all of the following Police and Fire membership requirements:                         

  1. The position to which this employee is being transferred has associated police (or fire) department functions in the same department or a related department within this same governmental subdivision, and
  2. Said position is not that of an elected or appointed position of the city council, city manager, or finance director.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this governing body hereby requests that the above-named employee be allowed to continue as a member of the Public Employees Police and Fire Plan until date of termination for this position.

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

Authorization to Elevate Part-time Deputy Sheriff to Full-Time

County Sheriff, Gary Fish and Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen met with the board requesting approval to elevate a part-time Deputy Sheriff to full-time Deputy Sheriff.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve County Sheriff and Human Resource Director to elevate a part-time Deputy Sheriff to full-time position at grade 12, increment A, effective March 17, 2013.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Boat and Water Safety Grant

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting approval to enter into the 2013 State of Minnesota Annual County Boat and Water Safety Grant Agreement.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the 2013 State of Minnesota Annual County Boat and Water Safety Grant agreement, Contract No. 57737 in the amount of $5,341 to carry out the provisions of Chapter 86B and the Boat and Water Safety rules, all hereinafter referred to as the “Sheriff’s Duties” effective January 1, 2013 thru June 30, 2014 and authorize Chairman Hanson, County Sheriff, Gary Fish, County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and County Attorney, Philip Miller to sign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Sheriff Vacation Time Earned as Chief Deputy Sheriff

County Sheriff, Gary Fish and Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen met with the board requesting the board to pay off his vacation time which he earned prior to his appointment of County Sheriff.

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve payment to County Sheriff, Gary Fish for the balance of accumulated vacation hours (285) prior to his appointment of County Sheriff; and at the hourly rate of $28.26 prior to his appointment of County Sheriff in the amount of $8,054.10 and Medicare match of $116.78 with the total cost of $8,170.88; with the next regular employee payroll. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

NW MN Juvenile Center

Commissioner Patty Beckel reviewed the 2012 NW MN Juvenile Center Statistical Report with the board.

BROADBAND COMMITTEE

Chairman Hanson discussed the Broadband meeting and the question that was brought up for the use of a surplus computer that the county has to be used for this project. The consensus of the County Board was to loan out a surplus computer for this project.

2013 County Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting

The board reviewed the memo from the Minnesota Department of Revenue in regards to the 2013 County Board of Appeal and Equalization dates.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel to set the 2013 County Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting on June 19, 2013 at 6:00 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Committee Reports

Commissioner Patty Beckel reported on:

  • Remonumentation Committee held on February 12
  • Airport Commission held on February 19
  • GIZIIBII- held on February 20
  • Northwest Community Action held on February 21

Commissioner Nordlof reported on:

  • Joint Powers Natural Resource Board held on February 25

Commissioner Hanson reported on:

  • Arrowhead Library System held on February 14
  • DNR Parks and Trails Open House held on February 19
  • NW Household and Solid Waste via ITV held on February 20
  • State Health Improvement Program (SHIP) held on February 20

Commissioner Moorman reported on:

  • Joint Powers Natural Resource held on January 28
  • State Advisory Council on Mental Health held on February 7
  • Local Advisory Council on Mental Health held on February 14
  • Prevention Coalition held on February 20
  • Aging Advisory Council held on February 21

County Auditor Updates:

  • Land Lease Contract being reviewed by County Attorney, Leon Grove will not be renewing his lease
  • Radio Tower Lease with Rural Tower Network will be sent to the County Attorney for his approval       

Correspondence:

MN Small Cities Development Monitoring Report; CEP were acknowledged.

CLOSED SESSION PURSUANT TO MN STAT.§ 13d.03- UNION NEGOTIATIONS

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to close the regular meeting at 2:05 p,m and go into closed session pursuant to MN. Stat § 13D.03 – Union Negotiations. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Beckel and the same being put to a vote was, unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel to close the closed session at 2:44 p.m. and open the regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Hanson called the meeting to recess at 2:45 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: March 12, 2013

____________________________                                        _______________________________

John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor                                       Thomas Hanson, Chairman of the Board

February, 2012

Commissioner Proceedings

FEBRUARY 14, 2012

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 14, 2012 in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Chairman Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Ed Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Tom Hanson and Ken Moorman. Also present were: County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, John Oren and Penny Mio Hirst.

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the agenda with the following additions: grant in aid trails and compensation time.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made byCommissioner Hanson to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Mary Jo Otten to St. Paul on February 10 for Assessor Appointment Approval; Boyd Johnson to St. Cloud on March 26-30 for Concrete Field II training.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

The board discussed the motion that was passed on January 24, 2012 in regards to the PERA for the part time Dispatcher/Deputy sheriff’s position.

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the minutes of January 24, 2012 regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Bob Lapos

Pastor Lapos, from Corner Stone Church meet with the board informing the board that his church would like to contribute financially to some project within the county. They discussed some of the organizations that have come to the board in the past requesting funding and also informed him to contact Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler for families that may need assistance.

Social services

Claims

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

Motion

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

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $ 13,066.86

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $ 12,940.17

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

Claims

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the County Board requesting approval for a Proclamation of Children of Alcoholics Week.

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY PROCLAMATION

CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLICS WEEK

Resolution No. 12-02-01

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

WHEREAS, it is estimated that one in four children in the United States under age 18 is hurt by family alcohol abuse or alcoholism, and that countless others are affected by parental drug use; and

WHEREAS, there is strong scientific evidence that alcoholism runs in families with children of alcoholics being 2 to 4 times more likely to develop alcoholism than children of non-alcoholics; and

WHEREAS, parental alcohol abuse or drug use is a significant factor in a large proportion of child abuse and neglect cases; and

WHEREAS, young children of alcoholics exhibit symptoms of depression and anxiety to a greater extent than children of non-alcoholics; and incur increasing health care costs and experience more life problems over the lifespan; and

WHEREAS, young children of alcohol or drug dependent parents often have difficulty in school and are more likely to be truant, drop out of school, repeat grades, or be referred to a school counselor or psychologist; and

WHEREAS, children of addicted parents, with interest and support from family, friends, health professionals, teachers, clergy, and others, can avoid the negative effects of familial alcoholism and drug dependence;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Todd Beckel, Lake of the Woods County Board Chairman along with the full Lake of the Woods County Board and in conjunction with the Lake of the Woods County Prevention Coalition do hereby proclaim February 12-18, 2012 as Children of Alcoholics Week.

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

Pera Motion

Chairman Todd Beckel discussed the motion that was passed on January 24, 2012 with regards to the newly hired part-time Dispatchers/Deputy Sheriffs. He informed the board that that when they work as dispatchers they need to be on the correction plan and when they work as Deputy’s they need to be on the coordinator plan or Police and Fire plan, not the correction plan.

Motion to Rescind

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to rescind the following motion from January 24, 2012 board meeting:

“Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to place the part-time Deputy   Sheriffs/Dispatchers on the Correction PERA plan. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.”

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

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to place Joseph Morisch and Bradly Abbey the part-time Dispatchers on the Correction PERA plan. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Resolution- Part-time Deputy Sheriff’s to PERA Police and Fire Plan

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

Resolution No. 12-02-02

Public Employees Police and Fire Plan

WHEREAS, the policy of the State of Minnesota as declared in Minnesota Statutes 353.63 is to give special consideration to employees who perform hazardous work and devote their time and skills to protecting the property and personal safety of others; and

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes Section 353.64 permits governmental subdivisions to request coverage in the Public Employees Police and Fire plan for eligible employees of police departments whose position duties meet the requirements stated therein and listed below.

BE IT RESOLVED that the Commissioners of Lake of the Woods County hereby declare that the position titled Part Time Deputy Sheriff, currently held by Joseph Morisch meets all of the following Police and Fire membership requirements:                       

Said position requires a license by the Minnesota peace officer standards and training board under sections 626.84 to 626.863 and this employee is so licensed;

Said position’s primary (over 50%) duty is to enforce the general criminal laws of the state;

Said position charges this employee with the prevention and detection of crime;

Said position gives this employee the full power of arrest, and

Said position is assigned to a designated police or sheriff’s department.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this governing body hereby requests that the above-named employee be accepted as a member of the Public Employees Police and Fire Plan effective the date of this employee’s initial Police and Fire salary deduction by the governmental subdivision.

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

Resolution- Part-time Deputy Sheriff’s to PERA Police and Fire Plan

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

Resolution No. 12-02-03

Public Employees Police and Fire Plan

WHEREAS, the policy of the State of Minnesota as declared in Minnesota Statutes 353.63 is to give special consideration to employees who perform hazardous work and devote their time and skills to protecting the property and personal safety of others; and

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes Section 353.64 permits governmental subdivisions to request coverage in the Public Employees Police and Fire plan for eligible employees of police departments whose position duties meet the requirements stated therein and listed below.

BE IT RESOLVED that the Commissioners of Lake of the Woods County hereby declare that the position titled Part Time Deputy Sheriff, currently held by Bradly Abbey meets all of the following Police and Fire membership requirements:                       

Said position requires a license by the Minnesota peace officer standards and training board under sections 626.84 to 626.863 and this employee is so licensed;

Said position’s primary (over 50%) duty is to enforce the general criminal laws of the state;

Said position charges this employee with the prevention and detection of crime;

Said position gives this employee the full power of arrest, and

Said position is assigned to a designated police or sheriff’s department.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this governing body hereby requests that the above-named employee be accepted as a member of the Public Employees Police and Fire Plan effective the date of this employee’s initial Police and Fire salary deduction by the governmental subdivision.

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

SHERIFF

County Sheriff, Dallas Block met with the board to discuss his Stonegarden Wage Adjustment. He will come back later with update figures for their consideration.

Friends of zippel

Mike Larson, representing “Friends of Zippel” meet with the board to share their plans on Zippel Bay State Park. Mike informed the board that their goal is to secure funding to enhance the park facilities so there is good economic gain to the local economy and better quality of life for local residents.  He informed the board that the Friends group is working with the goals of the 1985 park plan and will provide a vision for improvements for the next five years.

County Auditor

Claims

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

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

                                                Revenue                   $        30,986.19            

                                                Road & Bridge        $          4,252.48

                                                Co. Development     $          2,106.00

                                                Solid Waste              $        27,910.77

                                                EDA                         $          3,825.26

                                                                                 $         99,080.70                       

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/14/2012 For Payment 2/17/2012

Vendor Name                                  Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.              6,288.88

GCR Tire Centers                               2,245.66

Hoffman, Dale, & Swenson, Pllc        3,435.00

Howard’s Oil Company                      3,211.24

Information Systems Corporation    6,431.74

Mar-Kit Landfill                                  12,044.70

Marco                                                 10,098.35

Mn Rural Counties Caucus               2,100.00

North American Salt Co                   10,339.14

Northwest Community Action, Inc    3,052.76

Nw Mn Household Hazardous          4,594.00

Roseau County Cooperative Assn  2,053.64

Woody’s Service                                3,981.64

81 Payments less than 2000 – 29,203.95

Final Total: 99,080.70

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

                                                January 25,     2012    $   188,300.50

                                                January 25,     2012    $      3,940.18

                                                January 30,     2012    $     38,086.87 

                                                January 31,     2012    $       1,893.00

                                                February 2,     2012    $     32,414.23

                                                February 2,     2012    $            50.71

                                                February 8,     2012    $   100,430.69

                                                February 8,     2012    $          (99.90)

                                                February 8,     2012    $     86,400.85

                                                February 8,     2012    $       2,923.16

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

Lake of the Woods Land Commissioner

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid informed the board that the appointment of a Land Commissioner for Lake of the Woods County was not appointed at the January 24, 2012 meeting.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to appoint Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund as Land Commissioner for Lake of the Woods County. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Land Lease – Baudette Tower

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval for the Land Lease for the “Baudette Tower” with the State of Minnesota, Department of Revenue.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the Land Lease No. 00592 “Baudette Tower” with the State of Minnesota, Department of Transportation to provide radio coverage for the ARMER and other radio communication services within Lake of the Woods commencing February 1, 2012 and terminating January 31, 2022 and to authorize, County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid, County Attorney, Philip Miller and Chairman Todd Beckel to sign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Compensation Time

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board to discuss Boyd Johnson’s compensation time that he earned as an Inspector and if the board wants to transfer his compensation over to his new position or pay out the comp time as earned.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to pay out the compensation time earned to Boyd Johnson at the Inspector rate of pay in the amount of $1,671.88. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Road #33

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson, Dwight Wolters, Gary Moeller and Jerry Hennum met with the board to discuss CR #33 proposed policy. The board requested that Public Works Director, Tim Erickson put together an estimate for a path in the right-of-way.

Public Works Department

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting authorization to purchase a Dell T1600 computer and software for the Engineering Department.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to authorize the Public Works Director to purchase a Dell T1600 computer as budgeted and software from the Public Works reserve account for the Engineering Department. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 10:34 a.m. and reconvened at 10:40 a.m. as follows:

County Recorder

County Recorder, Sue Ney met with the board requesting approval to purchase a Canon DR 7090C Color Duplex Document Scanner from the Recorder’s Technology Fund.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the purchase of a new flatbed scanner for the Recorder’s office to be paid out of Recorder’s Technology Fund in the amount of $5,615.00. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

MIS

MIS Director, Brent Birkeland met with the board requesting approval to purchase new Unitrends Backup Hardware. He explained due to the expansion of systems and storage requirements; the current backup solution is out of licensed storage capacity. Brent informed the board that the Technology Committee consensus was to go with the Unitrends Backup Hardware

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to authorize the MIS Director to purchase a New Unitrends Backup Hardware in the amount of $9,196.32 with the funding from the reserve account. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Old/New Business

  • Lessard –Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund – none
  • Land Trade – none
  • Red Lake Tribe –Will meet on February 15, 2012
  • Township Road Inventory/ATV Ordinance – none
  • Inventory – to be completed by May 8, 2012 board meeting
  • Beaver –handouts
  • Clementson Bridge Property – none
  • 2012 Goals and Projects – Committee of the Whole
  • Grant Policy/Expenditures- will discuss at the Department Head Meeting

Comments:

Commissioner Hanson informed the board that he researched the Grant and Aid Trails procedures and that bench marks need to be met by certain dates to be incompliance.

Committee Reports

Chairman Todd Beckel handed out informational packets on the following:

  • Beaver Control Provisions
  • Sex Offender Civil Commitment Principles and evolution of Legislative Proposal
  • AMC- 2012 Major Legislative Issue
  • Reform 2.0
  • Beltrami Board of Commissioner- Opposition to proposed US Department of labor Regulations Affecting Family Farms
  • 2012 MN Wolf Season Recommendations
  • PILT update

Commissioner Moorman

  • Wolf Delisted and Zones

Commissioner Hanson

  • ALS Meeting Task Force
  • NLS/ALS possibly combining

Commissioner Patty Beckel

  • NW Juvenile Center
  • Airport Pre- Construction Meeting

Correspondence

The following Correspondence was acknowledge:

  • Driver and Vehicle Services- Triple Check
  • Minnesota Wins

Land and Water Planning

Fiscal 2011 BWSR NRBG

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and presented Fiscal Year 2011 Board of Water and Soil Resource and Natural Resources Block Grant for their approval.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to authorize Chairman Todd Beckel and Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund to the Fiscal Year 2011 Board of Water and Soil Resource and Natural Resources Block Grant final program allocation and contribution statement. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

SSTS Proposed Legislation

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and discussed the Subsurface Sewage Treatment System (SSTS) rule changes. The consensus of the board was for Land and Water Planning Directors to choice the suitable proposal that is right for our area.

County Auditor

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board to discuss the Deputy Auditor’s position in his office. No action was taken and set February 21, 2012 for a Work Session to discuss this further.

Closed Session- MN §13D.03- Labor Negotiations

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to close the regular meeting and open the closed session at 1:50 p.m. pursuant to MN §13D.03- Labor Negotiations. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

The following members were present: Commissioner Todd Beckel, Commissioner Patty Beckel, Commissioner Hanson, Commissioner Moorman and Arnesen. Others present were: Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to close the closed session at 2:24 p.m. and open the regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to adjust the longevity pay by $5.00 per month effective January 1, 2012. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Recess

With no further business before the County Board, Chairman Todd Beckel called the meeting to recess at 2:24 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: February 28, 2012

_______________________________                                  _______________________________

John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor                                       Todd Beckel, Chairman of the Board

Commissioner Proceedings

February 28, 2012

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 28, 2012, in the Auditorium at the Lake of the Woods School.

Call to Order

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

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.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the agenda with the following additions: Resolution in support of Weatherization in Minnesota and EDA meeting on March 1. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.   

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Boyd Johnson to Breezy Point on March 20-22 for MnDOT 2012 Survey Technical Workshop. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the minutes of February 14, 2012, regular meeting with changes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Department of Energy Weatherization Program

Commissioner Arnesen informed the board that at his last NWCA meeting they discussed the Minnesota’s Department of Energy lack of funding from the U.S. Department of Energy to assist low-income households in energy costs and requested that the County Board pass a resolution opposing the U.S. Department of Energy’s decision not to fund the weatherization program.

Resolution

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

Resolution Supporting Minnesota’s Department of Energy Weatherization Program

Resolution No. 12-02-04

Whereas, Minnesota is one of the coldest states in the United States (ranking 47th in average annual temperature); and

Whereas, the weatherization of homes is critical to the reduction of energy usage and the introduction of green house gasses into the atmosphere; and

Whereas, the State of Minnesota’s Department of Energy (DOE) Weatherization Program has been very high performing and has met or exceeded all program requirements established by DOE Program under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) including completion of the program ahead of schedule; and

Whereas, energy related costs (electricity, fuel oil and liquid propane) have increased dramatically over the past few years; and

Whereas, dwellings which have been weatherized under the DOE program in Minnesota have realized a 23% reduction in energy usage; and

Whereas, the DOE Weatherization Program has been the second greatest creator of jobs under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA); and

Whereas, the primary beneficiaries of the Weatherization Program have been low-income households who can least afford higher energy costs and are unable to afford making the necessary weatherization improvements.

Now Therefore Be It Resolved; that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners go on record as strongly opposing the U.S. Department of Energy’s decision to provide no funding to the State of Minnesota in FY 2012;

Be It Further Resolved; that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners request that DOE reconsiders this decision and takes the necessary steps to re-establish adequate funding to the State of Minnesota;

Be It Further Resolved; that a copy of this resolution be immediately forwarded to the State of Minnesota’s Congressional delegation with a request that they intervene on behalf of the Sate to help assure that weatherization funding is re-established in Minnesota in FY 2102.

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

Depot Preservation Alliance

Joann Kellner representing the Depot Preservation Alliance met with the board to discuss the DPA  plans to apply for a Region 2 Arts Council grant to assist with the costs of presenting a series of ten “Kid’s Activities Days” on a once per week basis over the summer through the Arts Project Grant Opportunity. She explained that at the present time, the DPA does not have funds to hire a director, so to assist with the “Kid’s Activities Days”, the DPA has applied to the UM-Crookston for a summer intern and respectfully requests a donation of $1,000 to assist with this project.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to contribute $1,000 to the Depot Preservation Alliance to assist with the cost for the “Kid’s Activities Day’s” with the funding from the Economic Development Account Fund. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Duties of County Commissioners

The County Board discussed the duties and responsibilities that come with the job as a County Commissioner with the students.

Old/New Business

Lessard – Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor heritage Fund- none

Land Trade- handed out State Owned Land within Lake of the Woods County

Red lake Tribe- met on February 15, 2012

Township Road Inventory-none

Inventory- April to be completed

Beaver- Joint Powers Natural Resource is working on a Beaver Plan

Clementson Bridge Property-none

2012 Goal and Objectives-

  • Park/Trails- Public Works working on
  • Auditor/Treasurer- not on Ballot
  • Technology- none
  • Insurance Meeting- March 13
  • Compensation Meeting- March 1

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 10:18 a.m. and reconvened at 10:24 a.m. as follows:

Social Services Director

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

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

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $  7,879.88

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $14,531.75

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

Human Service Costs and Revenue Shares

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler, met with the County Board and presented the Human Service Costs and Revenue Shares that the State, Federal and County contribute.

COUNTY AUDITOR

Claims

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board for approval of claims:

Motion

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

                                                Revenue                               $    13,466.69           

                                                Road & Bridge                     $     6,296.98

                                                Solid Waste                          $        858.22

                                                EDA                                     $     2,682.71

                                                                                             $    23,304.60    

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/28/2012 For Payment 03/02/2012

Vendor Name                                       Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                            2,715.36

Hasler                                                 2,000.00

42Payments less than   2000    18,589.24

Final Total:   23,304.60

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

                                                   February 22, 2012           $  22,551.72

                                                   February 22, 2012           $    2,660.09

                                                   February 22, 2012           $    2,197.60 

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

Liquor License Approval

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval for a Liquor License for PCE Inc., DBA River Bend Resort.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the combination On-Off Sale Liquor License for PCE Inc, DBA River Bend Resort effective March 1, 2012 thru June 30, 2012. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

2012 Legislative Conference

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board to inform them that the 2012 Legislative Conference will be held on March 21-22, 2012 in St. Paul and needed to know who was attending to make arrangements for the conference.

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

NAPA Asphalt Pavement Award

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and presented and award from NAPA Asphalt Pavement for the project on County Road 5 & 16, which Knife River Materials and Lake of the Woods County Public Works completed.

Hire of Senior Inspector

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting authorization to hire Cooper Mickelson for the position of Senior Inspector within the Highway Department.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to authorize the Public Works Director to hire Cooper Mickelson to fill the open position of Senior Inspector within the Highway Department effective March 5, 2012 at grade 12, step 1 on the union scale.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was, unanimously carried.

Purchase of two pickups

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting authorization to purchase two pickups for his department.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to authorize Public Works Director, Tim Erickson to purchase two (2) pickups as previously approved within the 2012 capital expenditure budget in the amount of $48,000 for both trucks. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried. 

Bituminous Mix Heater

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting authorization to purchase a new bituminous mix heater for his department.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize Public Works Director, Tim Erickson to purchase a demo bituminous mix heater in the amount of $23,388.80 as previously approved within the 2012 capital expenditure budget. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Mowers

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting authorization to purchase two (2) new mowers for his department.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to authorize Public Works Director, Tim Erickson to purchase a two (2) new mowers for the Highway Department as previously approved within the 2012 capital expenditure budget. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Semi-Cab

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting authorization to purchase a semi-cab for his department.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to authorize Public Works Director, Tim Erickson to purchase a semi-cab for the Highway Department at the cost of $50,000. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Tractor

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting authorization to purchase a new tractor for his department.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to authorize Public Works Director, Tim Erickson to purchase a new tractor in the amount of $39,900 as previously approved within the 2012 capital expenditure budget. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Construction/Demolition Waste Generators & Haulers

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and informed the board of some issues that they are having regarding the disposal of construction or demolition waste at the landfill. He presented a letter that will be sent to all generators and haulers reminding them of the solid waste ordinance regarding this matter and the charges that they will be billed for if the loads are unacceptable.

Northwest MN Juvenile Center

Commissioner Patty Beckel presented the 2011 Northwest MN Juvenile Center Statistical Report to the board.

HUMAN RESOURCE

Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen met with the board per their request to present an updated “Hand Held Mobile Phone” policy regarding cell phone usage and the resent law change that makes it illegal for anyone operating a Commercial Motor Vehicles requiring a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to use a hand held telephone during operation on a highway, including while temporarily stationary because of traffic, traffic control devise or other momentary delays.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the following revised “Hand Held Mobile Phone” policy as follows:

SAFETY AND SECURITY:

  1. Safety:  Use of “Hand Held Mobile Phones”
    1. When driving any County vehicle for official business, all employees shall be aware that safety is their primary responsibility.  Extreme discretion is required when making or receiving cell calls while driving.  Whenever possible, drivers shall pull off the road and be parked before making a call.
    2. By State Statute, it is illegal for anyone operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) requiring a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to use a hand held telephone during operation on a highway, including while temporarily stationary because of traffic, traffic control device or other momentary delays, etc.
    3. Drivers are permitted to operate hand held telephone when the driver has moved the vehicle to the side or off a highway and has halted in a location where the vehicle can safely remain stationary.
    4. Using a hand held device while operating a CMV does not apply in emergency situations when necessary to communicate with emergency services officials.
    5. No motor carrier (employer) shall allow or require its drivers to use a hand held telephone while driving a CMV (subject to civil penalties).The State will suspend the driver’s CDL after two or more violations with civil penalties escalating depending on the number of offenses.
  2. Security
    1. Employees must take all reasonable precautions to ensure their cell phone is not used by unauthorized persons or left unattended in unsecured vehicles.  Missing phones will immediately be reported to the appropriate Department head who will notify the Administrator for appropriate actions.

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

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 12:01 p.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m. at the Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room as follows:

Public Hearing

Small Cities Grant

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to close the regular meeting at 1:01 p.m. and open the Public Hearing as advertised for the “Small Cities Grant Application”. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Chairman Todd Beckel welcomed John Wynne, from Wynne Consulting to the public hearing.

John Wynne informed the board that the pre-application for the “Small Cities Grant” was invited for a full application, and therefore a public hearing needed to take place to obtain citizen views and responding to proposals and questions related to community development and housing needs.

Chairman Todd Beckel opened the floor for comments. No comments were heard and no letters were received.

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to close the Public Hearing at 1:20 p.m. and open the regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to authorize Chairman Todd Beckel to sign the Citizen Participation Plan as presented for the “Small Cities Grant”. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Resolution

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

Small Cities Grant

Resolution No. 12-02-05

BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County act as the legal sponsor for the project contained in the Application to be submitted on April 12, 2012 and that the Chairman of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners and the Lake of the Woods County Auditor are hereby authorized to apply to the Department of Employment and Economic Development for funding of this project on behalf of Lake of the Woods County.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County has the legal authority to apply for financial assistance, and the institutional, managerial and financial capability to ensure adequate construction, operation, maintenance and replacement of the proposed project for its design life.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County has not violated any Federal, State or local laws pertaining to fraud, bribery, graft, kickbacks, collusion, conflict of interest or other unlawful or corrupt practice.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that upon approval of its application by the State, Lake of the Woods County may enter into an agreement with the State of Minnesota for the approved project, and that Lake of the Woods County certifies that it will comply with all applicable laws and regulations as stated in all contract agreements.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that that the Chairman of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners and the Lake of the Woods County Auditor, or their successors in office, are hereby authorized to execute such agreements, and amendments thereto, as are necessary to implement the project on behalf of the Applicant.

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

Land AND WATER PLANNING

Consideration for Final Plat

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund presented the Findings of Facts for consideration for approval for the Final Plat for Sportsman’s Eagle Ridge, LLC. Josh reviewed the Supporting Documentations, Land over Breakdowns for the Northwest Angle and Oak Island with the board.

Attachment #1 and Supporting Documentation

Project Proposal:  Creation of a Commercial Planned Unit Development within the shoreland area of Lake of the Woods consisting of a seven (7) lot Common Interest Community on Oak Island titled Common Interest Community Number 4, A Planned Community, Eagle Ridge, submitted by Sportsman’s Eagle Ridge, LLC (Greg Hennum)

Scope, Page 3, – The Lake of the Woods County land use planning process has been designed to provide overall long term guidance to the county in its land use decision-making process through the development of land use goals and policies.  It was important to the County Board to focus the project’s limited resources on those issues most important to Lake of the Woods County.  To accomplish this, the survey described in the previous section helped the Board identify specific high priority issues.  The conclusions reached from the survey and subsequent discussions of the County Board area as follows:

  • Businesses and residents clearly felt that timber harvesting and shoreland development have had the greatest effect on the county’s natural resources over the past decade.  These two are of continuing importance to the county.
  • Preserving the county’s tax base is a high priority.
  • The county should provide a balanced approach to land use planning which takes into consideration individual rights, protection from the actions of others, and protection of the natural environment.

Population Characteristics, Page 5 – Using available local, state, and federal information, this section develops a complete context for the county that will enable the County Board to craft appropriate policy for guiding land use within the county over the next decade.  To develop this context, this section includes information on population, housing, the local economy, and the county’s physical characteristics.

Change, Page 5 – There has been a growing demand for rural lots and new sites for residential development; virtually all of the recent population growth has occurred outside of the city limits of the three cities (See table 1, page 5).

Migration, Page 6 – During the decade of the 1980’s, Lake of the Woods County experienced a 3.1 percent rate of in-migration.  Economic growth and job availability are important factors which influences in-migration.

Housing and Household Characteristics, Page 7 – The housing and household change by type provides some indication of the demand for land for this type of use.  The following information provides this part of the planning context.

Change, Page7 – Household growth greatly surpassed total population growth over the past 37 years.  Almost all of the growth in households has occurred in the rural areas of the county (See table 6, page 8).

Type; Ownership, Page 8 – In 1990, 2,917 units or 95.6 percent of all housing in the county was classified as a single family dwelling – either attached, detached, or mobile homes.  Because Lake of the Woods County has a substantial tourism economy, it is no surprise that it has, for many years, had a large number of seasonal homes.  The number of seasonal homes has increased rapidly (by 76 percent) in the past 20 years (See table 8, page 9).

Economic Characteristics, Page 10 – An understanding of the economic characteristics of Lake of the Woods County is helpful in explaining past land use patterns as well as predicting future demands for development.  Some of the most important factors to understand are labor force issues, the economic base of the county, and trends in major economic sectors.

Labor Force; Employment, Page 10 – The labor force in Lake of the Woods County has been growing during the past two decades.  As new jobs have become available, the county has attracted new workers from other areas, and the number of residents who have entered the labor market has increased (See table 10, page 10).

Tourism, Page 14 – Although there are few direct measures in this economic sector, retail sales and lodging sales are both reasonable indicators.  Lodging sales are the best indicator of change in the tourism industry.  In this category, Lake of the Woods County has done exceedingly well since 1980.  Lodging sales have increased from slightly over $2 million per year to almost $7 million in 16 years, an increase of 237 percent.  This increase illustrates that the county has been very successful in expanding its tourism industry and meeting the needs of its tourist guest (See table 17, page 15).

Physical Characteristics, Page 15 – Land Use/Cover – Lake of the Woods County encompasses a total of 1, 138, 040 acres or about 1,778 square miles.  Because the county boundaries encompass a portion of Lake of the Woods, which accounts for about 482 square miles (308,480 acres) or 27.2 percent of the county, an analysis of the use and cover on the actual land mass of the county is the most useful information and will be used here.  Land used for urban and rural development in the categories urban/industrial, other rural development, and farmsteads and rural residences, were a very small percentage of land use at less than one percent (See table 18, page 17).

Land Ownership, Page 17– Lake of the Woods County, like many counties in northern Minnesota, has a very large amount of land in public ownership.  Federal, state, county, and tribal lands account for almost 76 percent of the land base in the county leaving only 24 percent of the land, or about 198,000 acres, available for private use and development (See table 19, page 17).

Summary of Values, Page 25 – 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 over the next decade.  While those values include a respect for the environment and a desire to maintain the environmental quality that now exists, they also include a desire for local control over the issues that affect the county’s land, and individual choice when it comes to issues of work and leisure.  Following is a summary of those values important to Lake of the Woods County:

  • Individual Choice:  In the type 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;
  • Conservation:  Of the resources in the county.  Those resources would be used in a way that they remain healthy for future generations; and finally
  • Balance:  Between individual rights and the public’s welfare and between competing economic development and environmental protection objectives.

Low Density Rural Activity, Page 29 – 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 resort 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.  It is anticipated that seasonal home development will remain strong, although the rate of growth is anticipated to be somewhat smaller than what has been experienced over the past 20 years.

Priority Issues, Page 31 – The following section provides a more detailed analysis of the four most important land use-related issues in the county.  These issues concern themselves with the impacts of timber harvesting, the sale and exchange of land within the county, the development of shoreland areas, and the process of making state policy that affects land use in the county.

Priority Issue #4:  Shoreland Development, Page 35

Issue:  What is the magnitude of development in the shoreland area in Lake of the Woods County, and are there impacts that should be managed by Lake of the Woods County.

Background, Page 35 – For the purposes of this analysis, the shoreland development within Lake of the Woods County is divided into two parts: the impacts of new development, and the impacts of existing development.  Each will be discussed in some detail below.

New Development.  New development is almost exclusively related to resort and residential expansion. The development within the shoreland area in the county is principally on the south shore of Lake of the Woods, its tributaries, Rainy River, and the Northwest Angle and its islands.  The growth is in existing resorts, as well as the addition of new seasonal and, to some extent, year round homes.

Figure 10, page 37 shows the location of those building permits that are in the shoreland area over the last ten years.  As can be seen, these permits are from the far northwestern tip on Rocky Point through Zippel Bay and to the east.  In addition, there were a number of permits during this same period for the Northwest Angle and its islands.

The growth of residential and resort-related development could be considered moderate over this period of time.  Extensive discussions with local staff involved with resource management issues in Lake of the Woods County reveal that there are no large intensive developments occurring, but rather there are additions of houses or mobile homes in a variety of areas.

While there is a modest amount of private upland available along the lake, there is substantial land that would present more of a challenge for development: land inaccessible to the existing road system, and/or wetland where mitigation would have to occur for development to proceed.

The existing regulatory structure for Lake of the Woods County for shoreland areas includes:

  1. Shoreland Zoning, including minimum lot sizes;
  2. Individual septic sewage treatment system regulations that require certain standards to be met for new sewage treatment systems; and
  3. The Wetland Conservation Act, which requires mitigation of wetland impacts.

These three regulations appear adequate to effectively manage the new growth and development that is likely to occur on the south shore of Lake of the Woods and on Rainy River.

Development on the Northwest Angle and its islands has been increasing steadily over the last several years.  A number of new subdivisions have been created, and a scattering of seasonal homes have been built.  While the tax base of this new development is welcome, there is some feeling in Lake of the Woods County that the development should be managed in a way that helps the area retain the semi-wilderness character which is unique to this county.  Other tourism areas in the state have a more developed character that cannot provide the privacy, seclusion, and pristine environment that Lake of the Woods has to offer.

The increasing development is likely to change the character of this area if not managed differently than the rest of the shoreland areas in the county.  There may be some cause to rethink density, use and other controls.

Conclusions, Page 38

  • New shoreland-related residential and commercial development in Lake of the Woods County is moderate in scope.  There has been some steady growth in shoreland development in the last ten years, with nearly all of it being residential and resort-related.  This growth has occurred on the islands, and in places such as Rocky Point, Long Point, Sandy Shores, and Wheeler’s Point.
  • Management tools now in place, adequately enforced, are sufficient to appropriately manage the level and types of growth occurring on Rainy River and the south shore of Lake of the Woods.  Lake of the Woods County has shoreland zoning, ISTS, and Wetland Conservation Act regulations in place to effectively manage the magnitude and type of growth that is now occurring in these areas.

Future Land Use Plan, Page 40 – The following section describes Lake of the Woods County’s vision for future land use and development in the county.  It includes a statement of the county’s land use goals, policies it will promote through its activities, and a future land use map that illustrates the described future land use pattern in the county.  This section also includes specific implementation strategies the county will undertake to further its goals and policies, as well as monitoring indicators that can be used to judge its progress toward its goals.

Goals, Page 40 – 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. Following are those goals.

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

Policies, Page 40 – 41

  • Maintain the county government’s economic health through the maintenance of its tax base, and the promotion of compatible economic activity.
  • Work to enhance the tourism industry in Lake of the Woods County through recreational enhancement and promotion activities.
  • Undertake and/or support activities to protect environmentally sensitive areas within the county.
  • Continue to effectively enforce existing ordinances; reassess the effectiveness of the county’s regulatory tools on an ongoing basis.
  • As a first response to new land use management issues, emphasize educational and technical assistance activities over new regulations when possible.
  • 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.

Future Land Use, Page 41 – The goals and policies stated above are focused on the county’s core values: individual choice in the areas of work and leisure, local influence over land use policy that affects the county, balance between individual rights and the public’s welfare and between competing economic development and environmental interests, and conservation of the natural resources of the county.  The future land use map (Figure 12, page 42) presented in this section is derived from, and a spatial representation of, these county goals and policies.

The future land use map identifies four categories: rural development activity, agricultural use, forested use, and low impact use areas.  This plan shows an expansion of rural development activity in areas adjacent and contiguous to existing similar uses, a maintenance of the agricultural and forest land base, and the conservation of a large area where only low impact use would be encouraged.  This map is consistent with previously stated county policies that encourage the maintenance and promotion of agricultural, forest, and recreational activities, the protection of environmentally sensitive areas, and the development of intensive uses in areas that are easily served by public infrastructure.  Following is a more specific identification of the decision rules that guided the development of each land use category.

  • 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.

This future land use plan map is meant to be a guide for future development patterns and a guide for future land use policy and decision-making by Lake of the Woods County.  Specific circumstances are likely to modify this pattern somewhat: e.g., the successfully negotiated exchange or sale of public and private land, new opportunities generated by increased economic activity, or changes in state or local policy to adjust to changing future circumstances.  However, the map represents an accurate reflection of the policies that have been enunciated in the previous narrative in this section.

Attachment #2

LANDOWNERSHIP BREAKDOWN FOR THE NORTHWEST ANGLE AND ISLANDS
Total Parcels and Acreage = ~1,044 – 78,603 acres 
State Lands = ~152 – 14,448 acres – 18%Reservation Lands = ~158 – 53,406 acres – 68%
 Federal Lands = ~31 – 4,042 acres – 5% Private Lands = ~703 – 6,707 acres – 9%
LANDOWNERSHIP BREAKDOWN FOR OAK ISLAND
Total Parcels and Acreage = ~120 – 1,580 acres 
State Lands = ~3 – 201 acres – 13%Reservation Lands = ~8 – 308 acres – 19%
 Federal Lands = 0 – 0 acres – 0% Private Lands = ~109 – 1,071 acres – 68%

Data derived from ArcGIS parcel mapping information

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision – Final Plat

Name of Applicant:  Sportsman’s Eagle Ridge, LLC (Gregg Hennum)    Date:  2/28/12

Location/Legal Description:  Part of the Government Lot 8, Section 1, T. 167N, R. 33W (partial legal description).  The full legal description of the property is on file with the Land & Water Planning Office.

Project Proposal:  Creation of a Commercial Planned Unit Development within the shoreland area of Lake of the Woods consisting of a seven (7) lot Common Interest Community on Oak Island titled Common Interest Community Number 4, A Planned Community, Eagle Ridge

  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 Comprehensive Land Use Plan provides long term guidance to the county in its land use decision-making process. Below are the values, goals, and policies of the Lake of the Woods County Board for future land use.

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 over the next decade. While those values include a respect for the environment and a desire to maintain the environmental quality that now exists, they also include a desire for local control over the issues that affect the county’s land and individual choice when it comes to issues of work and leisure. Following is a summary of those values important to Lake of the Woods County:

  • Individual Choice:  In the type 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;
  • Conservation:  Of the resources in the county.  Those resources would be used in a way that they remain healthy for future generations; and finally
  • Balance:  Between individual rights and the public’s welfare and between competing economic development and environmental protection objectives.

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. Following are those goals.

  • Enhance the economic opportunities available for individuals and businesses in the county in ways that are compatible with long term environmental quality.
  • Maintain the tax base of the county so quality services can be provided.
  • Enhance the forest resources of the county in ways that promote economic and recreational use, wildlife diversity, and environmental quality.
  • Improve recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
  • Maintain and, where necessary, improve water quality.

Policies

  • Maintain the county government’s economic health through the maintenance of its tax base, and the promotion of compatible economic activity.
  • Work to enhance the tourism industry in Lake of the Woods County through recreational enhancement and promotion activities.
  • Actively manage growth to maintain the character of Lake of the Woods County, including the semi-wilderness character of the Northwest Angle and its islands.
  • Continue to effectively enforce existing ordinances; reassess the effectiveness of the county’s regulatory tools on an ongoing basis.
  • As a first response to new land use management issues, emphasize educational and technical assistance activities over new regulations when possible.
  • 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.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Compliant septic systems will be installed over 400 feet from the Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM) of Lake of the Woods. All but one cabin will be setback more than 200 feet to reduce the visibility from Lake of the Woods. Adequate vegetative buffers exist to screen neighboring properties.

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?  All structures will meet the minimum setback of 75 feet from the Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM) of Lake of the Woods with five out of the six proposed structures to be placed in excess of 200 feet from the OHWM. Open space will be in excess of 50 percent and at least 50 percent of the shore impact zone will be left in a natural state.  Impervious surface coverage for the entire project is less than 10 percent.

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?  The existing topography will not be adversely affected as this is an asset to the construction of the units located in the second tier of development to gain a view of the lake. The drainage features that are present on the property will not be altered as the site has adequate drainage currently. Extensive vegetative removal is not required as the applicant has indicated he wishes to keep a buffer between the units for seclusion and privacy. The only vegetative removal that is proposed is for the construction of the units and septic system.

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?  No habitable structures are to be placed within the flowage easement of 1064’ elevation of Lake of the Woods. All structures are required to be placed or elevated to an elevation greater than or equal to 1065’.

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

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

Why or why not?  Appropriate erosion control measures will be implemented during construction of the units. The direction of slope is towards the water; however, five out of the six proposed units are more than 200 feet from the lake and the remaining unit will be setback at a minimum of 75 feet from the lake. The topography of the area has more of a gradual slope within approximately 150 feet of the shoreline.

7. Is the site in harmony with existing and proposed access roads?        

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

Why or why not?  There are no existing or proposed access roads to this property as it is located on Oak Island.

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

Why or why not?  Adjacent land uses are residential however; the adjacent properties are zoned as commercial-recreational and natural environment. The past land use of this parcel of property has been of the commercial nature with two rental cabins being there for quite some time.

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

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

Why or why not?  Generally, resorts and/or planned unit developments are located within the shoreland area to provide accommodations for tourists or residential development.

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 amount of liquid waste will be comparable or similar to a residential structure. Adequate space has been identified for the placement of two standard septic systems (primary and secondary) sites according to the site evaluation that has been conducted. A standard Type 1 system is proposed for the units.

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

Why or why not?  The visibility of the structures as viewed from the public waters will not change as no vegetation removal within the shore impact zone is proposed.

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

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

Why or why not?  A site evaluation was conducted and concluded the site is adequate for placement of two standard on-site sewage treatment systems. The site is adequate for a water supply from a drilled well or siphoned from the lake with a filtering system to accommodate the units. Currently, the water supply is shared with an adjacent neighbor, however, the applicant has stated that a proposed well is likely to be drilled in the summer of 2012.

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?  Lake of the Woods is approximately 300,000 acres in size within the county boundaries of Lake of the Woods.

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?  There will be no storage tanks for petroleum or other hazardous material associated with this proposal.

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?  Adequate vegetative screening exists to buffer the proposed project from adjacent properties.

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 signs placed upon the property.

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?  A centrally located dock will accommodate boat traffic to and from the site. Also, the applicant has stated that the current trail, in which no easements have been granted for travel purposes, can easily be rerouted on adjacent land that is owned by the applicant to travel from one property to the other without interfering with adjacent property owners.

Additional items considered are as follows:

  1. All correspondence from landowners in opposition to or in favor of this project proposal since January 2011.
  2. Project proposal exceeds greater than 50% open space requirement. Open space has been calculated at approximately 80%.
  3. At least 50% of the shore impact zone (SIZ) must be preserved in its natural state. Applicant is not proposing to alter existing conditions within the SIZ.
  4.  Impervious surface coverage within any tier must not exceed 25% of the tier area requirement. This project proposal has impervious surface coverage of less than 10% for the entire development.
  5. Septic system and water supply will service the six proposed units and be in full compliance with existing regulations.
  6. Dwelling units are clustered into one group.
  7. Shore recreation facilities, including but not limited to swimming areas, docks, and watercraft mooring areas are centralized.
  8. Structures are located as to reduce visibility as viewed from public waters and adjacent shorelands by vegetation, topography, increased setbacks, assuming summer leaf-on conditions. Vegetation and topographic screening must be preserved.
  9. See attachment #1 which references specific items as outlined in the Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Land Use Plan that we feel are consistent with this project.
  10. See attachment #2 which breaks down the landownership for the Northwest Angle and Islands.

The specific conditions of approval are as follows:  __________________________________

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

                                                                                                ____________________________

                                                                                                            Todd Beckel

                                                                                                        Chair, County Board

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

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the Final Plat for Sportsman’s Eagle Ridge LLC and authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and Chairman Todd Beckel to sign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Attorney

County Attorney, Philip Miller met with the board to discuss the Cell Phone Stipend. The consensus of the board was to grant County Attorney, Philip Miller the Cell Phone Stipend.  Philip also updated the board on the Courthouse Safety meeting he attended.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Commissioner Patty Beckel reported on:

  • Airport

Commissioner Arnesen reported on:

  • NWCA meeting
  • Red Lake

Commissioner Todd Beckel reported on:

  • Household Hazard Waste
  • AMC Board- Redesign
  • PILT- Work group

Commissioner Moorman reported on:

  • HRDC
  • Board of Aging

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Moorman called the meeting to recess at 2:34 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: March 13, 2012

____________________________                                        _______________________________

John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor                                       Todd Beckel, Chairman of the Board