January 24, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Correspondence, Set Public Hearing, EDA Appointment.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of January 10, 2023.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $6,515.41; Commissioners Warrants $3,584.82; Commissioners Warrants $12,145.76

Contract Renewal-Schackman, Kramer and Associates

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the contract renewal with Schackman, Kramer, & Associates for medication management.

Border Bank Signature Cards-Child Support Account

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to remove Shelley Pepera from the Border Bank account ending in 4739 and to authorize Sheri Stebakken and Jo Aery to sign the Border Bank signature card for account number 4739 effective March 3, 2023. 

Riverwood Bank Signature Cards-Social Welfare Account

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to remove Shelley Pepera from the Riverwod Bank account ending in 6476 and to authorize Jodi Ferrier and Sheri Stebakken to sign the Riverwood Bank signature card for account number 6476 effective March 3, 2023. 

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $81,120.16; Road & Bridge $33,102.36; County Development $1,890.08; Natl Resc Enhanc $44.24; Solid Waste $8,373.49; EDA $1290.66.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 1/24/2023 For Payment 1/27/2023

Vendor Name Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 20,878.48

Counties Providing Technology 5,104.00

Farmers Union Oil Co. 5,079.50

Headwaters Regional Development Commiss 3,500.00

Integris LLC 2,060.75

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 7,915.00

Motorola Solutions, Inc 16,422.91

Northern Light Region 4,069.00

Pennington County Sheriff Office 20,249.81

Sandpieper Design Inc. 3,660.66

St. Louis County Auditor 2,000.00

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

Voyageurs Comtronics, Inc 2,640.00

42 Payments less than 2000 25,972.38

Final Total: 125,820.99

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: January 11,2023 for $56,416.64; January 13, 2023 for ($97.00); January 17, 2023 for $329,168.22; January 18, 2023 for 134,272.08.

Transfer of Funds

Motion

Motion by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and unanimously carried to approve the transfer of funds effective 12/31/2022 from the County Ditch #26 Fund to repay the Revenue Fund for loans in the following amounts:

Ditch 26 Principal Interest Total

Loan #1     540.00         33.22 $     573.22

Loan #2  10,401.60 $530.59 $10,932.19

EDA Appointment

Resolution

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

Re-Appointment of Terms of the economic development authority

Resolution 23-1-5

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

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

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

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

Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to recommend appointment

Chamber of Commerce to recommend appointment

Lake of the Woods Tourism to recommend appointment

City of Baudette to recommend appointment

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

Board Member Term Expires Representing

Brock Stebakken 12/31/2023 City of Baudette

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

Jeff Bauers 12/31/2024 IDC

Paul Johnson 12/31/2024 Tourism Board

Ed Arnesen 12/31/2025 County Board District 5

Jon Waibel 12/31/2025 County Board District 4

Brittney Peterson 12/31/2026 Chamber of Commerce

Cody Hasbargen 12/31/2027 County Board District 2 

Joe Grund 12/31/2028 County Board District 3

Whereas the City of Baudette member is to be replaced;

Now, therefore, be it resolved that the County Board of Commissioners of the County of Lake of the Woods hereby appoints the following board member for a 1-year term to complete the term of Brock Stebakken;

Board Member Term Expires Representing

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

Set Public Hearing

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set a public hearing date for April 11, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. with Mike Hirst to discuss the Rainy-Rapid Watershed Plan.

Sheriff

Approval of Federal Boat & Water Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Federal Boat & Water Grant in the amount of $3,744.00.

Joining the Meeting

Chair Ed Arnesen joined the meeting at 9:20 a.m.

Public Works

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects.

Approval of Bid

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the bid from Korby Contracting in the amount of $628,133.20 for SAP 039-598-071.

Permission to Advertise Bid

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise for bids for SAP 039-608-026

Approval of Title VI

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve Title VI non-discrimination implementation plan to receive federal funds. 

Permission to Replace Boilers

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of new boilers for Solid Waste for $19,556.99. 

Permission to Purchase New Tools and Safety Equipment for Solid Waste

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of new tools in the amount of $5,740.66 and safety related items in the amount of $2,269.55.

Tourism Support Resolution

Resolution

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

Lake of the Woods Lodging Tax Collection

RESOLUTION NO. 23-01-04

WHEREAS, counties in Minnesota are not authorized to impose a local lodging tax, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 469.190, except in the cases of joint powers agreements and on behalf of unorganized township where the county board acts as the unorganized township’s board; and, 

WHEREAS, such a tax of 3% was imposed in certain areas in Lake of the Woods County beginning in 1989, and continues to the present day, but is now only imposed in the unorganized townships of Lake of the Woods County, and the City of Baudette no longer participates in the Tourism Bureau funded by the local lodging tax but may instead impose a separate lodging tax pursuant to Minnesota Statute 469.190; and,

WHEREAS, the revenue raised since the lodging tax’s original inception and the accompanying advertising has resulted in the area becoming an international star in recreational fishing, which in turn has significant impact on businesses throughout northern Minnesota and neighboring counties; and,

WHEREAS, the body of water named “Lake of the Woods”, is under the jurisdiction of Lake of the Woods County until Canadian waters, and is not under the jurisdiction of any city, municipality, or township. A county-wide lodging tax clears up any jurisdictional question imposing a lodging tax on facilities located on the ice during the winter months; and,

WHEREAS, the vast majority of all taxes collected are related resorts and fishing, including ice fishing houses that provide lodging; and,

WHEREAS, the purpose of the lodging tax is to raise revenue to fund a local tourism bureau for the purpose of marketing and promoting the County of Lake of the Woods. 

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners seeks special legislation authorizing the County to impose a tax of up to three percent (3%) on gross receipts subject to the same rules and laws as the lodging tax allowed under Minnesota Statutes section 469.190. The county-wide tax would not be imposed on any lodging facilities located within the City of Baudette.

Approval of the Memorandum of Understanding

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Memorandum of Understanding between Lake of the Woods County and Koochiching County regarding the housing of inmates.

Correspondence

The board reviewed correspondence from the DNR and Minnkota Power.

Recess

With no further business before the Board, Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 10:12 a.m.

Attest: February 14, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chairman Ed Arnesen

January 10, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Law Enforcement City Contract, Auditors Engagement Letter, and Koochiching County Correspondence. 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of December 29, 2022.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of January 3, 2023. 

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $27,258.98; Commissioners Warrants $2,259.09; Commissioners Warrants $4,746.55.

Northland Counseling Purchase of Service Agreement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously, with Commissioner Cody Hasbargen abstaining, to approve the purchase of service agreement between Lake of the Woods County and Northland Counseling for clinical supervision and CTSS services for children and for the Chair Ed Arnesen and Social Services Director Amy Ballard to sign the same.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $273,054.15; Road & Bridge $91,636.18; Joint Ditch $40,153.65; Solid Waste $36,948.41; EDA $1,983.00.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 1/10/2023 For Payment 1/13/2023

Vendor Name Amount

Air Med Care Network 16,803.00

Avenu Insights & Analytics 6,896.84

BDT Mechanical,LLC 2,228.50

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 5,151.02

Commissioner Of Transportation 15,000.00

Howard’s Oil Company 9,795.70

Little Falls Machine, Inc 3,928.61

LOW Highway Dept 40,153.65

LOW Soil & Water Cons. Dist. 101,188.00

Mar-Kit Landfill 10,832.50

Mn Assn Of Counties 7,852.00

Mn Counties Computer Co-Op 19,432.19

MN Counties Intergovernmental Trust 162,424.00

OnSolve,LLC 7,875.00

Schneider Geospatial, LLC 8,400.00

University of North Dakota 9,520.90

29 Payments less than 2000 16,293.48

Final Total: 443,775.39

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: December 30, 2022 for $128,726.01, January 4, 2023 for 159,322.40.

Auditor Engagement Letter Motion

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the Audit Engagement Letter, for the year ended December 31, 2022, with Hoffman, Philipp, & Martell, PLLC and for Chair Ed Arnesen and Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Assessors

Grade Increase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve a grade increase for Emily Brandt to reflect her receiving her CMA License from Assessment Tech I to Assessment Tech II Grade 12, Step 2, $23.97 per hour at 281 points effective next full pay period.

EDA Director

Economic Development Authority (EDA) Director Ryan Zemek met with the board to inform them that he has recently accepted a position with Widseth, Smith & Nolting and to give his formal resignation for the EDA Director position. Ryan Zemek offered to assist with the transition in finding a new EDA Director.

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl joined by phone to give a brief update on various projects and to discuss his input on the upcoming public hearing for road vacation.

Human Resources

Permission to Hire Heavy Equipment Operator

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve new hire Corey Olson as Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) at Grade 11, Step 1, $22.28 per hour, at 265 points effective 1/3/2023.

Permission to Advertise, Interview, & Hire- Social Worker

Human Resources Director Savanna Slick came to the meeting to inform the board that Shelley Pepera will be retiring effective March 3^rd, 2023 and to request permission to advertise, interview, and hire a social worker in her place. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise, interview, and hire a social worker at Grade 13, Step 1, $24.73 per hour at 298 points. 

Correspondence- Koochiching County

The board reviewed correspondence from Koochiching County.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to have the County Attorney James Austad drat a memorandum of understanding between Lake of the Woods County and Koochiching County and to have this ready to approve at the next board meeting.

Sheriff 

Law Enforcement Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Law Enforcement contract between Lake of the Woods County, Lake of the Woods County Sheriff, and the City of Baudette effective January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2025

Recess

A brief recess took place at 9:51 a.m. and reconvened at 10:00 a.m.

Public Hearing- Road Vacation

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the Public Hearing for Road Vacation.

Petition for Road Vacation 

Present at the hearing were Commissioners: Ed Arnesen, Cody Hasbargen, Buck Nordlof, and Joe Grund. Also present: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund, Woody Fiala, Bertel Anundson, Nancy Anundson, and Wes Hasbargen. The board reviewed the request from Bertel and Nancy Anundson to vacate the roads within the Plat of Pitt and took questions from surrounding neighbors.

Motion 

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

Approval of Road Vacation

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY BOARD TO APPROVE THE VACATION OF ALL ROADS WITHIN THE PLAT OF PITT 

Resolution No. 23-01-03

WHEREAS, the issue of vacating the following described roads was raised and discussed at the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners Meeting.

The proposed roads to be vacated are Main Street, Sanborn Ave, and alleys in Blocks 1,2,3,&4 in the Plat of Pitt.

WHEREAS, Minn. Stat. § 164.06, subd. 1 allows a county board to initiate the town road establishment, vacation, or alteration procedure contained in Minn. Stat. § 164.07 upon receiving authorization of the town electors; 

WHEREAS, the county commissioners determined it is in the best interests of the town to authorize the county to initiate the road procedure in Minn. Stat. § 164.07.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby authorize the county to initiate the road vacation procedure in Minn. Stat. § 164.07 regarding the above referenced roads. 

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

Recess

A brief recess took place at 10:16 a.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m.

Public Hearing-Replacement Plan Appeal

Motion

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

Replacement Plan (Wetlands) Appeal

Present at the hearing were Commissioners: Ed Arnesen, Cody Hasbargen, Buck Nordlof, and Joe Grund. Also present: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, County Attorney James Austad, Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund, Mike Hirst, Woody Fiala, Robert Audette, and Jennifer Audette. 

The board reviewed the appeal from Robert & Jennifer Audette.

Motion 

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

Motion to Include Exhibits in Official Record

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to include the exhibits presented at the public hearing in the official record.

Motion to extend the Public Hearing

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to extend the public hearing to February 14, 2023 at 1:00p.m.

Recess

With no further business before the Board, Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 2:10 p.m.

Attest: January 24, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chairman Ed Arnesen

COMMISSIONER PROCEEDINGS

January 3, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, January 3, 2023 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

Swearing in of Elected Commissioners

County Recorder Sue Ney swore in elected Commissioners Joe Grund and Buck Nordlof.

Election of Chair and Vice Chair 

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson called for nominations for Chair for Lake of the Woods County Board for the year 2023. Commissioner Cody Hasbargen nominated Commissioner Ed Arnesen for Chair with Commissioner Joe Grund seconding the nomination. County Auditor/Treasurer called for nominations two more times.

Chair
Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the nominations for Chair.

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson called for a roll call for Commissioner Ed Arnesen for Chair.  Roll call carried as follows: All in favor: Commissioners: Jon Waibel, Cody Hasbargen, Ed Arnesen, Joe Grund and Buck Nordlof.  Against:  None.  Commissioner Ed Arnesen assumed the position of Chair of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners for 2023.

Vice – Chair

Chair Ed Arnesn called for nominations for the position of Vice-Chair for the year 2023.  Commissioner Joe Grund nominated Commissioner Cody Hasbargen for Vice-Chair for Lake of the Woods County Board with Commissioner Jon Waibel seconding the nomination. Chair Ed Arnesen called for nominations two more times.  

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to close the nominations for Vice-Chair.  

Chair Buck Nordlof called for a roll call for Commissioner Cody Hasbargen for Vice-Chair.  Roll call carried as follows: All in favor: Commissioners, Jon Waibel, Cody Hasbargen, Ed Arnesen, Joe Grund and Buck Nordlof.  Against:  None.  Commissioner Cody Hasbargen assumed the position of Vice-Chair of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners for 2023.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

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

OFFICIAL COUNTY NEWSPAPER BID-OPENING

	Chair Ed Arnesen called for the bid opening at 9:15 a.m. for the Official Legal Newspaper for the year 2023.The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof  and unanimously moved for adoption:                                                       RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING OFFICIAL LEGAL NEWSPAPER for YEAR 2023                                                         Resolution No. 2023-01-01WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners per Minnesota Statutes 279.08 called for legal bids for the official newspaper for the year 2023WHEREAS, upon opening all bids, Lake of the Woods County designates the Northern Light Region as the official legal newspaper for the year 2023;WHEREAS, the Northern Light Region, as the official legal newspaper for the year 2023, is awarded the first publication of the annual financial statement at $7.00 per standard advertising unit, (no other bids received, therefore no second publication required);WHEREAS, the Northern Light Region, as the official legal newspaper for the year 2023, is awarded the first publication of the notice and list of the real estate remaining delinquent taxes on the first Monday of January, at $7.00 per standard advertising unit and; WHEREAS, the Northern Light Region, as the official legal newspaper for the year 2023, is awarded the second publication of the notice and list of the real estate remaining delinquent taxes, at $7.00 per standard advertising unit, and;BE IT RESOLVED, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners further designates the Northern Light Region for all other legal publishing, not specified above, for the year 2023.
	Lake of the Woods County Bid Tabulation Legal Publishing  Year 2023 January 3, 2023 Per Standard Advertising Unit Financial StatementDelinquent Tax ListAll Other Publications 1st Publ.2nd Publ1st Publ2nd Publ         Northern Light Region PO Box 1134  7.00        7.007.007.007.007.00 Baudette, MN  56623 218-634-2700 Award To: Official Legal Newspaper Northern Light Region 1st Publ/Financial Stmnt 7.00  2nd Publ/Financial Stmnt If applicable7.00N/A  1st Delinq Tax List 7.00        2nd Delinq Tax List 7.00          All Other 7.00

County Auditor/treasurer

Bank Signature Cards

RiverWood Bank/Wells Fargo Bank Signature Cards

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Connie Nesmith and Chair Ed Arnesen to sign the Wells Fargo signature cards for account numbers 3908 and 6372 and to sign the RiverWood Bank signature cards for account numbers 3846, 6443, and 6484.

RiverWood Bank Signature Cards

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson and Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Connie Nesmith to sign the RiverWood Bank signature card for account number 8645 and investments.

Border Bank Signature Cards

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson and Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Connie Nesmith to sign the Border Bank signature card for account number 2404.

RiverWood Bank Motor Vehicle Checking Account

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Erik Tange, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Anna Sanchez, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Connie Nesmith and Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Chelsea Anderson for account number 6450.

Official Depositories

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to designate the following institutions as Official Depositories of county funds for the year 2023:

1. RiverWood Bank, Baudette Branch
2. Border Bank, Baudette Branch
3. Multi Bank Securities
4. Wells Fargo Bank

It was further moved to designate RiverWood Bank, as the official safekeeping Institution for Lake of the Woods County.  

Elected Officials – Minimum Salaries

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson presented the 2023 Minimum Salaries for Elected Officials to the board for approval.

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

Resolution For

Establishing Minimum Salaries for Elective Offices

Resolution No. 2023-01-02

WHEREAS, M.S. 388.18, Subd. 2, (County Attorney), M.S. 386.015, Subd. 2b, (County Recorder), and M.S. 387.20, Subd. 2b, (County Sheriff), requires the County Board, at the January meeting prior to the first date on which applicants may file for County elective offices, to establish minimum annual salaries to be paid to the respective office holders at the term next following;

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the following statutory minimum annual salaries are hereby established for county elective offices for the term beginning in January of the year 2023:

County Attorney: $93,350.40

County Recorder: $70,948.80

County Sheriff: $79,164.80

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

IRS Mileage Rate

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to accept the IRS Mileage rate for 2023, to approve any changes in the rate from the IRS throughout the year of 2023, and to approve an additional 10 cents to veteran volunteer drivers. 

Approval of 2023 Committees

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following committees for the year 2023:

2023 ASSOCIATION OF MINNESOTA COUNTIES (AMC)

Ag Task Force: Commissioner Jon Waibel; Alternates: Commissioners;

Environmental and Natural Resources: Commissioner Ed Arnesen; Alternates: Commissioners;

General Government: Commissioner Buck Nordlof; Alternates: Lorene Hanson and Commissioners;

Health and Human Service: Commissioner Joe Grund and Amy Ballard; Alternates: Commissioners;

PILT Advisory: Commissioners and Josh Stromlund;

Public Safety: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Transportation and Area Transportation Alliance: Commissioner Jon Waibel and Anthony Pirkl; Alternates: Commissioners;

2023 COUNTY RELATED COMMITTEES

Airport Commission:  Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Beaver Committee: Commissioner Joe Grund, Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Bruce Erickson, Anthony Pirkl and Steve Levassuer;

Border Coalition/Passports: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Jon Waibel, Sue Ney and Jill Olson;

Building and Safety Committee: Commissioner Jon Waibel, Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Anthony Pirkl, Peder Hovland, Lorene Hanson, Amy Ballard, one from Law Enforcement, and Safety Director;

Continuity of Operation Plan (COOP): Jill Olson and Commissioners;

County Extension Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Lorene Hanson.  Additional Members: Tabitha Ubel, Kenneth Horntvedt, Dean Thompson, Colleen Stanton and Sandy Peterson. Extension Members: Brenda Nelson, Lisa Loegering and Karen Santl. 

County TV:  Commissioner Joe Grund, Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Lee Hervey, Lorene Hanson, Peder Hovland and Jill Olson;

Data Privacy Administrator: Savanna Slick;

Department Head Liaison: Chair/Commissioner Ed Arnesen; Alternates: Commissioners;

Department Liaisons:  

Assessor – Commissioner Buck Nordlof;

Land and Water Planning Office – Commissioner Joe Grund;

Attorney – Commissioner Ed Arnesen; 

MIS – Commissioner Joe Grund; 

Sheriff – Commissioner Cody Hasbargen; 

Social Services – Commissioner Buck Nordlof; 

Recorder – Commissioner Jon Waibel; 

Highway – Commissioner Jon Waibel; 

Auditor/Treasurer – Commissioner Ed Arnesen; 

H/R – Commissioner Cody Hasbargen; 

County Surveyor- Commissioner Joe Grund;

Veterans Service Officer – Commissioner Cody Hasbargen; 

Tourism Bureau- Commissioner Ed Arnesen; 

Wheelers Point Sewer- Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Economic Development Authority- Commissioner Jon Waibel

Department of Natural Resources: Commissioner Ed Arnesen and Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Drainage Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Joe Grund, Byron Tviet, Anthony Pirkl, Josh Stromlund, Dennis Johnson, Marshall Nelson and SWCD Representative;

Enhanced 911 Committee: Commissioner Buck Nordlof and Commissioner Jon Waibel, Eric Solo, Gary Fish, Jill Olson and other local appointees;

GIZIIBII: SWCD Representative Corryn Trask;

Grievance Committee: Chair/Commissioner Ed Arnesen, James Austad, Savanna Slick, Daryl Fish, Josh Stromlund and Angie Eason; Alternate: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Information Systems/Technology Committee: Commissioner Joe Grund, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Peder Hovland, Josh Stromlund, Boyd Johnson, Lorene Hanson and James Austad; 

Insurance Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Jon Waibel, Amy Ballard, Lorene Hanson, Sue Ney, Daryl Fish and Savanna Slick;

Jail Committee: Commissioners, Gary Fish, Anthony Pirkl, James Austad, Tami Mauer, Peder Hovland and Lorene Hanson;

Joint Drainage Authority: 

JD22: Commissioner Joe Grund-District 3, Commissioner Ed Arnesen-District 5, Commissioner Jon Waibel-District 4; 

JD 62: Commissioner Joe Grund- District 3, Commissioner Ed Arnesen-District 5, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen-District 2; 

Labor/Management Committees: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Savanna Slick; Alternate: Commissioner Buck Nordlof;

Lake of the Woods Affordable Housing/Loan Committee: Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Sue Ney, Alisa Jacobsen and Lorene Hanson; Alternate:  Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Law Library:  Commissioner Ed Arnesen, James Austad to appoint and Chief Judge to appoint;

Legislative Committee:  Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Jon Waibel.

Motor Pool Committee: Commissioner Jon Waibel, Lorene Hanson, Jodi Ferrier, Alisa Jacobsen, Josh Stromlund, Peder Hovland; Alternate:  Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Ordinance Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Jon Waibel, James Austad, Gary Fish, Josh Stromlund; 

Park Commission: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Anthony Pirkl and Joe Laurin; Alternate: Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Personnel Committee (combined Compensation Plan and Personnel): Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Savanna Slick, Sue Ney, Anthony Pirkl, Christine Hultman, Lorene Hanson and Daryl Fish;   

Public Information Officer: Lorene Hanson; Alternate: Savanna Slick and James Austad;

SHIP Committee: Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Alternate: Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Snowmobile Trails Committee: Commissioner Joe Grund and Commissioner Buck Nordlof;

Solid Waste Committee/Household Waste: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen (as the (NWMNHHW representative for the Joint Powers Agreement), Commissioner Joe Grund, Anthony Pirkl, Tina Rennemo, Lorene Hanson and Alisa Jacobsen; 

Subdivision Controls Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Josh Stromlund, Alisa Jacobsen, Sue Ney, Peder Hovland and Commissioner of the District involved;

Township Road and Trails: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Anthony Pirkl, Josh Stromlund, Peder Hovland, Boyd Johnson and Alisa Jacobsen;  

Northwest Angle Development: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen; Alternates: Commissioners;

Vets Service: Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Commissioner Joe Grund, Legion Commander or Delegate, VFW Commander or Delegate and Rick Rone;

Wellness Committee: Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Angie Eason, Julie Berggren, Savanna Slick, Cassondra Brune;

2023 BOARDS/COLLABORATIVE/COALITION

Arrowhead Library System:  Colleen Stanton (01/01/23-12-31-26); Alternate: Commissioner Buck Nordlof (01-01-22-12-31-25);

Board of Adjustment-/Planning Commission: District 1- David Marhula, District 2-Monica Dohman, District 3- Marshall Nelson, District 4- Tom Mio, District 5-Nancy Dunnell; at large; Ken Horntvedt and Weston Johnson; non-voting Commissioners;

Border Substance Abuse Court and Steering Committee: Commissioner Jon Waibel and Amy Ballard;

Humane Society: Commissioner Joe Grund and Gary Fish;

Headwaters Regional Development Commission: Commissioner Ed Arnesen and Commissioner Buck Nordlof; Alternate: Commissioner Joe Grund;

Joint Powers Natural Resources Board: Commissioner Joe Grund and Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Keep It Clean Committee/Aquatic Invasive Species: Commissioner Ed Arnesen;

Lake of the Woods County Children and Families Collaborative and Prevention Coalition Committee:   Commissioner Joe Grund;

Lake of the Woods Criminal Justice Coalition and Children’s Justice Initiative: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Lutheran Social Service Board: Commissioner Buck Nordlof and Amy Ballard; Alternate: Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Mid-State Co-op: Delegate #1 – Peder Hovland, Delegate #2 – Alisa Jacobsen;

Minnesota Counties Computer Co-op: Delegate #1 – Peder Hovland, Delegate #2 – Lorene Hanson; Alternate: James Austad; 

Minnesota Counties Intergovernmental Trust: Commissioner Jon Waibel; Alternates: Commissioner Buck Nordlof and Lorene Hanson;

Minnesota Rural Counties Caucus: Commissioner Ed Arnesen; Alternates: Commissioners;

North Country Community Health Board:  Commissioner Joe Grund (term expires 12/31/25) and Tom Mio (term expires 12/31/23) these are three-year terms;

North Country Community Health Services Advisory Committee: re-appoint Commissioner Joe Grund (term expires 12/31/25) and Tom Mio (term expires 12/31/23) these are two-year terms;

Northern Coalition Regional Charging Network: Cody Hasbargen

Northern Counties Land Use Coordinating Board: Commissioner Ed Arnesen and Josh Stromlund; Alternates: Commissioner Buck Nordlof and Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Northwest Board of Aging/Area Agency: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and Amy Ballard; Alternates: Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Northwest Community Action:  Commissioner Ed Arnesen and Commissioner Jon Waibel; Alternates: Commissioners;

Northwest Minnesota Juvenile Center Board: Amy Ballard (term expires 12/31/2026, appointed in 2023).  This is a four-year term;

One Watershed/One Plan: Commissioner Ed Arnesen; Alternate: Commissioner Buck Nordlof;

Rainy Rapid River Board: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and Josh Stromlund; Alternate: Commissioner Joe Grund;

Recreation Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Jon Waibel and Anthony Pirkl;

Red River Valley Development Association:  Commissioner Ed Arnesen and Ken Horntvedt;

Regional Advisory: Jill Olson;

Rainy Rapid Water Shed One Plan Committee: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Nancy Dunnell; John Sonstegard;

NW Emergency Communications Board: Commissioner Ed Arnesen; Alternates: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and Jill Olson;

SWCD District Committee: Commissioner Joe Grund and Josh Stromlund; Alternate Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Housing & Redevelopment Authority of Baudette: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen; Alternate Commissioner Buck Nordlof.

Joint Jail Koochiching County Committee: Commissioner Jon Waibel, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Sheriff Gary Fish, Tami Mauer, James Austad, Lorene Hanson; Alternate: Craig Severs. 

DITCH AUTHORITY

Motion

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

Ditch Assessments

The following Ditch Assessments were recommended by the Ditch Authority and presented to the County Board for 2023:

• CD 1: $22,800.00
• CD 2: $882.40
  • JD 16: $8,500.00
  • JD 24: $16,000.00
  • JD 26: $24,000.00
  • JD 28:  $50,000.00
• JD 22:  $4,800.00 (Joint Ditch with Roseau County)
• JD 62: $16,900.00 (Joint Ditch with Roseau County)

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof  and carried unanimously to close the Ditch Authority meeting and reconvene the regular meeting.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the recommendations of the Ditch Authority to set the 2023 Ditch Assessments as follows: County Ditch 1-$22,800; County Ditch 2-$882.40, Judicial Ditch 16 Outlet Fee- $8,500; Judicial Ditch 24- $16,000; Judicial Ditch 26- $24,000; Judicial Ditch 28-$50,000; Judicial Ditch 22-Joint Ditch with Roseau-$4,800; Joint Ditch 62 with Roseau-$16,900.

Set County Road Tour Date

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to set the county road tour date for October 18, 2023 with the time being determined at a later date.

Extension Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Extension Contract increasing from  ½ time to ¾ time, a $20,000 program increase. 

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 9:50 a.m.

Attest: January 10, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chairman Ed Arnesen

January 25, 2022

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in special session on Tuesday, January 25, 2022 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

Approval of Agenda

Motion

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

Approval Of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the minutes from January 11,2022.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the minutes from January 18,2022.

Assessors

Mary Jo Otten Retirement

Resolution

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

RECOGNITION OF YEARS OF SERVICE

  MARY JO OTTEN

RESOLUTION 2022-01-03

WHEREAS: Mary Jo Otten has served the residents of Lake of the Woods County since July 18,2011 as Lake of the Woods County Assessor;

WHEREAS: Mary Jo has resigned from Lake of the Woods County service effective January 27,2022 with 10 years and 6 months of service;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESLOVED That Lake of the Woods Board of County Commissioners extends its deepest appreciation to Mary Jo for her dedicated service and wishes her well on her retirement.

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

Request for Credit Card

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the request for a credit card for County Assessor Alisa Jacobsen.

AMC

Matt Hilgart and Jill Suurmeyer representing the Association of Minnesota Counties gave a presentation about the new Final Rule for the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Funds and how they can be used in the community. They discussed different options that are pre-approved by the final rule and gave examples of how other counties are distributing funds.

Set Work Session

A work session for the American Rescue Plan funds and Solid Waste was set for 2/22/22 after the board meeting.

Social Services

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $7,259.06; Commissioners Warrants $1,834.13; Commissioners Warrants $16,843.19.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $38,388.38; Road & Bridge $34,022.17; County Development $3,000; Solid Waste $31,392.67; EDA $1,692.02.

                                                     WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

                            Warrants Approved On 1/25/2022 For Payment 1/28/2022

Vendor Name Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 8,443.39

Counties Providing Technology 4,647.00

Freeberg & Grund, Inc 19,357.00

Headwaters Regional Development Commiss 3,500.00

Integris DBA 10,794.66

KRIS Engineering Inc 6,804.49

Mn Assn Of Counties 2,200.00

North East Technical Service,Inc 2,647.94

Nw Mn Household Hazardous 5,945.00

Sandpieper Design Inc. 3,697.02

Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc 11,994.82

St. Louis County Auditor 2,000.00

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

34 Payments less than2000 20,195.42

Final Total: 108,495.24

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: January 12,2022 for $69,588.73; January 21,2022 for $93,480.77; January 19,2022 for ($641.10); January 24,2022 for $565,246.39.

Auditor/Treasurer Contract

The board discussed the Auditor/Treasurer Contract and opened the discussion up to the public for comments.

Approval of Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the Auditor/Treasurer contract and for Chair Buck Nordlof and Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same. 

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to add the resolution for the Auditor/Treasurer appointed position to the agenda.

Resolution

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

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY

RESOLUTION FOR APPOINTMENT OF THE OFFICE OF 

AUDITOR-TREASURER

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-01-04

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Auditor-Treasurer is currently an elected office of Lake of the Woods County. 

WHEREAS; Minn. Stat. 375A.1205 allows a County Board to appoint certain offices including the County Auditor-Treasurer; and 

WHEREAS; the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners recognizes the benefit to having appointed persons in the position of the County Auditor-Treasurer because it promotes efficiency and consistency of County business with individuals qualified to oversee a broad spectrum of complex issues within the Auditor-Treasurer’s Office; and 

WHEREAS; the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners wants to ensure that the individual holding this position possesses the skills and/or experience necessary to properly carry out the responsibilities of this position; and

WHEREAS; pursuant to Minn. Stat. 375A.1205, Subd. 1, the parties have executed a contract between the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners and the Lake of the Woods County Auditor-Treasurer that provides that the Lake of the Woods Auditor-Treasurer will be appointed to the position and retain tenure, pay and benefits equal to or greater than the length of service; and 

WHEREAS, the Contract shall be effective thirty days after the adoption of this resolution, and will end on December 31, 2022. The Contract shall remain in full force and effect unless (a) modified by mutual consent of the County Board and Officer, (b) terminated as provided in the Contract or (c) the County Board adopts a resolution to provide for the election to the Officer’s position pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 375A.1205, Subd. 7. By December 1, 2022, the parties shall meet to discuss the terms of a subsequent contract; and

WHEREAS, the person elected at the last general election to an office made appointive under Minn. Stat. § 375A.1205 must serve in that capacity and perform the duties, functions, and responsibilities required by statute until the completion of the term of office to which the person was elected, or until a vacancy occurs in the office, whichever occurs earlier; and

WHEREAS; in accordance with Minn Statute 375A.1205, Subd. 6, a proposed resolution notifying the public of its intent to appoint the Auditor-Treasurer as described above was published for two consecutive weeks in its official publication; and

WHEREAS; the County Board of Commissioners provided an opportunity for public comment on November 9, 2021; and

WHEREAS, after the public comment opportunity, at the same meeting or a subsequent meeting, the County Board of Commissioners may adopt a resolution that provides for the appointment of the office or offices as permitted in this section; and

WHEREAS, the resolution must be approved by at least 80 percent of the members of the County Board upon which it may take effect 30 days after it is adopted.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners appoints the Auditor-Treasurer position pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 375A.1205.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners has entered into a contract with Lorene Hanson that will become effective thirty days after the adoption of this resolution by the County Board and will retain all tenure, pay and benefits equal to or greater of her previously elected position.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners may adopt a resolution in the future to provide for the election of an office that was made an appointed position pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 375A.1205, but not until at least three years after the office was made an appointed position.

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

Land & Water

Consideration of Board of Adjustment/Planning Commission Training Session

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund came to the board to request the approval of a training session for Board of Adjustment/Planning members in the amount of $2,250.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the amount requested for training.

Public Works

Public Works Director Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects. There was a brief discussion about the fish guts removal process and a request to have a meeting with the resorts.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to add approval of bids for projects SAP-039-599-001 and SAP-039-649-005.

Approval of Bids

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to authorize the advertisement for project bids on SAP-039-599-001 and SAP-039-649-005.

Set Meeting Date

A meeting with local resorts was set for February 8^th 2022 at 6:30p.m.

NorthWest Community Action

Leah Hesson and Randy Jensen representatives from NWCA gave a presentation to the board about a new car repair grant from Blue Plus/Blue Shield. The initial grant is for $40,000 and can be used in LOTW, Marshall, Roseau, and Kittson counties. They gave various examples that show a need in the community to help those who need car repair but can not afford it on their own. They are requesting $10,000 from each county to add to the grant funds to help with this program. The board requested to add this to the next agenda and no action was taken at this time. 

Hospice-Red River Valley

Brenda Iverson came to the board to discuss the Red River Valley Hospice care program. This program is now training 4 local nurses to do in home care and they have a projected start date of April 5^th. They are trying to create awareness and answer any questions the community might have. 

Open Official Bank Bids

The board opened the official bank bids at 11:30a.m. Two bids were received from: Border Bank and RiverWood bank. The board will review the bids in a scheduled work session following the regular bboard meeting.

Law Enforcement

North Building Renovation and Furniture

Deputy Sheriff/Investigator Craig Severs joined by phone to discuss the improvements and requests for the North Building offices. They agreed that the project should be done in phases beginning with furniture and paint.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to move forward with the purchase of furniture and paint for the North building.

Tourism

Attorney Patrick Plunket joined by phone to discuss Tourism with the board. Consensus was made by the board to explore and move forward with special legislation for lodging tax.

Recess

With no further business before the Board, Chair Buck Nordlof called the meeting to recess at 12:25p.m.

Attest: February 8, 2022

______________________________ _________________________________

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

January 18, 2022

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in special session on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

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 additions: Set work session-RFP Bank.

Auditor/Treasurer Contract

The board discussed the Auditor/Treasurer Contract and any changes that would need to be made. No action was taken at this time, to be added to next agenda.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 10:05a.m. and reconvened at 10:25a.m.

Tourism

Old Business- The board discussed tourism and no action was taken at this time.

NWA Transportation

The board discussed a request for $10,000 for assistance. No action was taken at this time, to be added to next agenda.

Union Negotiations

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to close the special meeting and open the closed session pursuant to MN Statute 13D.03 Union Negotiations. 

The following were present: Commissioners: Joe Grund, Buck Nordlof, Cody Hasbargen, Jon Waibel, Ed Arnesen and County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, County Attorney James Austad and Human Resources Director Savanna Slick.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to close the closed session and open the special meeting.

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Chair Buck Nordlof called the meeting to recess at 1:13 p.m.

Attest: January 11, 2022

______________________________ _________________________________

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