January 9, 2024

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Board Meeting Date Change.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of December 28, 2023.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of January 2, 2024.

Board Meeting Date Change

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to change the August 20^th, 2024 meeting to August 6^th, 2024.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $31,845.90; Commissioners Warrants $1,217.32; Commissioners Warrants $6,111.39.

Border Bank Signature Cards-Rep Payee Account

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to authorize Jodi Ferrier and Aspen Thompson or their successors to sign the Border Bank signature card for the Rep Payee Accounts.

Border Bank Signature Cards-Child Support Account

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to authorize Sheri Stebakken and Jo Aery or their successors to sign the Border Bank signature card for account number 4739.

Riverwood Bank Signature Cards-Social Welfare Account

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesn and carried unanimously to authorize Jodi Ferrier and Sheri Stebakken  or their successors to sign the Riverwood Bank signature card for account number 2155.

Child Support Agreement and Child Support Arrangement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the Child Support Agreement and Child Support Arrangment between Minnesota Department of Human Services, Child Support and Lake of the Woods County.

Healthcare Access Plan

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Local County and Tribal Agency Biennial Health Care Access Services Plan.

Lakewood Health Ambulance Service-Letter of Support

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to draft a letter of support for Lakewood Ambulance Service to move from a BLS service to a part-time ALS service and for Chair Cody Hasbargen to sign the same.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $250,684.68; Road & Bridge $69,931.65; Solid Waste $34,471.94; EDA $365.00. 

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 1/09/2024 For Payment 1/12/2024

Vendor Name Amount

Air Med Care Network 16,803.00 

ByteSpeed, LLC 7,713.00 

Ferrellgas 2,051.72 

Headwaters Regional Development Commiss 3,500.00 

Integris LLC 2,159.90 

KnowBe4, Inc 2,227.50 

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 15,700.00 

Mar-Kit Landfill 10,036.00 

Mn Assn Of Counties 7,146.00 

Mn Counties Computer Co-Op 21,470.97 

MN Counties Intergovernmental Trust 168,235.00 

Mn State Dept-Correction 27,762.36 

Moren/Law Offices Of Patrick D 8,960.80 

Motorola Solutions, Inc 17,079.83 

OnSolve,LLC 7,875.00 

Verus Corporation 3,896.75 

WIDSETH SMITH NOLTING & ASSOC., INC. 8,350.00 

47 Payments less than 2000 24,485.44

Final Total: 355,453.27

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: December 29, 2023 for $126,414.49; December 29, 2023 for $1,981,017.71; January 3, 2024 for $4,189.42.

ARPA Update

County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson gave an update on American Rescue Plan funds.

Northwest Angle Post Office Update

The board discussed options for the post office at the Northwest Angle.

Affidavit of Lost Warrant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Affidavit of Lost Warrant #40299.

Employee Recognition

The board presented John Butenhoff with the Steven R. Sindelir award for Excellence for the year 2023.

GIZIIBI

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund gave an update on GIZIIBI. It was the consensus of the board to no longer participate in GIZIIBI.

DITCH AUTHORITY

Motion

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

Ditch Funds Update

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

Motion

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

PUBLIC WORKS

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects that included snowplowing and bridge projects.

Township Road Inventory

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl and the Board of Commissioners reviewed Township Road Inventory and discussed the future of the project.

Splashpad Advisory Committee

Shelby Mason, Calista Wolf, Lindsay Payne and Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) Representative Ashley Walker gave a presentation to the board to show the splashpad design they have created and to request funding in the amount of $35,000.00. No action was taken at this time.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 11:32a.m. and reconvened at 11:38 a.m.

LAND & WATER

Consideration of Interim Use Permit #24-01IU by Daniel Klis

Lot 2, Block 1, East Pine Creek, according to the recorded plat thereof, in Section Twenty-nine(29), Township One Hundred Sixty-eight(168) North, Range Thirty-four(34) West-Parcel ID# 02.51.01.020. Applicant is requesting an Interim Use Permit as required by Section 401.B of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Development Zoning District (R1). This portion of Pine Creek is considered Lake of the Woods, a General Development Lake.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following Interim Use Permit/Findings of Fact #24-01IU by Daniel Klis to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Development Zoning District (R1) with the following conditions:

1. The interim use permit terminates five (5) years from the date of approval or upon sale or transfer of the property whichever occurs first.
2. The maximum occupancy is limited to six (6) individuals as per the submitted application.
3. The established quiet hours are from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am as per the submitted application.
4. A valid Certificate of Compliance for the septic system is required. 
5. No on-street parking is allowed.
6. If applicable, the applicant must meet the Minnesota Department of Health requirements.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Short-Term Vacation Rental Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Daniel Klis Date:  January 9, 2024

Location/Legal Description:  Lot 2, Block 1, East Pine Creek Plat

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

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

Explain?  Resort and recreational destination.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

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

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

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

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

Explain?  Property has access from East Pine Drive Northwest.

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

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

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  As per the submitted application.

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

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

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

Explain?  The maximum number of occupants is limited to six (6) people as per the submitted application.

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

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

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

Explain?  As per the submitted application, the quiet hours are 10:00 pm to 7:00 am.

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

Explain?  See submitted application.

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

Explain?  See submitted application.

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

Explain?  See submitted application.

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

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

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

YES (  )  NO ( )  N/A (X)

Explain?  No fencing and/or screening is warranted.

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

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

1. The interim use permit terminates five (5) years from the date of approval or upon sale or transfer of the property, whichever occurs first.
2. The maximum occupancy is limited to six (6) individuals as per the submitted application.
3. The established quiet hours are from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am as per the submitted application.
4. A valid Certificate of Compliance for the septic system is required.
5. No on-street parking is allowed.
6. If applicable, the applicant must meet the Minnesota Department of Health requirements.

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

January 9, 2024 _____________________________________

Date Cody Hasbargen

Chair, County Board

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

Louis Taylor-Address Request

Mr. Taylor came to the board to request an address for his property.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the request from Mr. Louis Taylor to have an address created for his property.

Fairboard

JP Sweet came to the board to inform them that the carnival for the County Fair has raised their prices and would like to request additional funding to secure a carnival for the next fair.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to increase the funding amount from $25,000.00 to $35,000.00 for the County Fair Carnival.

CLOSED SESSION

Resolution

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

Resolution Closing Board Meeting

Resolution No. 2024-01-03

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

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

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

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

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

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

Adopted by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota this 9th day of January, 2024. 

Motion

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

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 12:35 p.m.

Attest: January 23, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair Cody Hasbargen

January 23, 2024

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: NWA Post Office Correspondence, Safeboat Donation, IT Issues.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of January 9, 2024.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $5,268.98; Commissioners Warrants $785.96; Commissioners Warrants $14,814.29.

Transfer of Homeless Funds

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the transfer of $50,000.00 from the social services fund monies received from a state funded homeless prevention grant to the Baudette Housing Authority to increase capacity of local housing through infrastructure/building.

Approval of Child Crisis Response Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the Child Crisis Response Contract between Stellher Human Services and Lake of the Woods County Social Services.

Mobile Children’s Dental Clinic

Social Services Director Amy Ballard informed the board that Children’s Dental Services has agreed to provide 3 mobile clinics in Lake of the Woods County in 2024. The mobile clinic will be held in the County Commissioner’s Room in the Government Center until an alternative site is found. The mobile dental clinic will be open to all ages.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $100,612.27; Road & Bridge $93,982.50; Solid Waste $20,969.02; EDA $1,572.18. 

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 1/23/2024 For Payment 1/26/2024

Vendor Name Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 14,005.47 

Compass Minerals America 13,955.57 

Farmers Union Oil Co. 2,625.23 

Integris LLC 2,159.90 

John Deere Financial 3,245.60 

Joy Brandt Painting 28,800.00 

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 28,819.00 

Lavalla Sand & Gravel Inc 57,690.50 

LOW Soil & Water Cons. Dist. 20,000.00 

Northern Light Region 3,715.25 

Quadient Finance USA Inc. 3,000.00 

Rainy Lake Oil, Inc 2,513.50 

Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc 8,727.60 

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50 35

Payments less than 2000 21,609.85

Final Total: 217,135.97

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: January 10,2024 for $77,105.89; January 17, 2024 for $111,110.95; January 16, 2024 for $324,392.49; January 16, 2024 for ($1,853.50).

Human Resources

Case Aid I to Case Aid II

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve Sheri Stebakken to move from Case Aid I at Grade 8, Step 10, $23.27 per hour to Case aid II at Grade 9, Step 10, $24.50 per hour at 224 points effective next full pay period.

Splashpad

Mayor Rick Rone discussed the City of Baudette’s involvement with and support of the splashpad project.

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects for highway and solid waste departments.

Correspondence

The board reviewed correspondence about the Northwest Angle Post Office.

County Road Discussion

Yulia Bogdanova and Alex Butler came to the board to discuss the road access to their property. No action was taken by the board at this time.

Sheriff

Deputy Ben Duick informed the board that the State of Minnesota DNR has offered to donate a 2013 Safeboat that may require some repairs.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to accept the donation of a 2013 Safeboat from the State of Minnesota DNR.

Remove From Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to remove IT issues from the agenda.

Closed Session

Resolution

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

Resolution Closing Board Meeting

Resolution No. 2024-01-04

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

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

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

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

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

1. The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby closes this meeting based upon the attorney-client privilege pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(b);

The specific subjects to be discussed, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(b), are the legal strategy of the Board regarding the ongoing sensitive data investigation.

Motion

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

Closed Session

Resolution

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

Resolution Closing Board Meeting

Resolution No. 2024-01-05

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

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County, while not yet served, has received a copy of a Summons and Complaint dated January 3, 2024 signed by Plaintiffs William E. Fischer and Cathy Fischer, requesting, inter alia, that the court quiet title and declare that a disputed roadway be considered private property. Lake of the Woods County is named as one of the Defendants in the action; and   

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board seeks to meet with its attorney, to discuss the pending lawsuit; and

WHEREAS, it would be detrimental to the interests of the Lake of the Woods County Board to hold a public discussion with its attorney regarding the strengths and weaknesses of its legal position(s), strategy, and potential settlement position regarding the pending lawsuit where an opposing party or opposing attorney could listen to or be made aware of Lake of the Woods County’s positions; and

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

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

1. The Lake of the Woods County Board hereby closes this meeting based upon the attorney-client privilege pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(b); and

2. The specific subjects to be discussed, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.01, subd. 3, are the legal strategy regarding the pending Quiet Title Action signed by Plaintiffs William E. Fischer and Cathy Fisher, and received by the County from another named defendant. 

Motion

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

Correspondence

The board reviewed correspondence from Arrowhead Library.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 11:00a.m.

Attest: February 13, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair Cody Hasbargen

January 2, 2024

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, January 2, 2024 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.

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 2024. Commissioner Joe Grund nominated Commissioner Cody Hasbargen for Chair with Commissioner Ed Arnesen seconding the nomination. County Auditor/Treasurer called for nominations two more times.

Chair
Motion

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

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson called for a roll call for Commissioner Cody Hasbargen 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 Cody Hasbargen assumed the position of Chair of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners for 2024.

Vice – Chair

Chair Cody Hasbargen called for nominations for the position of Vice-Chair for the year 2024.  Commissioner Joe Grund nominated Commissioner Jon Waibel for Vice-Chair for Lake of the Woods County Board with Commissioner Buck Nordlof seconding the nomination. Chair Cody Hasbargen called for nominations two more times.  

Motion

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

Chair Cody Hasbargen called for a roll call for Commissioner Jon Waibel 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 Jon Waibel assumed the position of Vice-Chair of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners for 2024.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: ARPA Update, Northwest Angle Update

OFFICIAL COUNTY NEWSPAPER BID-OPENING

		Chair Cody Hasbargen called for the bid opening at 9:10 a.m. for the Official Legal Newspaper for the year 2024. The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and unanimously moved for adoption:                                                        RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING OFFICIAL LEGAL NEWSPAPER for YEAR 2024Resolution No. 2024-01-01WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners per Minnesota Statutes 279.08 called for legal bids for the official newspaper for the year 2024WHEREAS, upon opening all bids, Lake of the Woods County designates the Northern Light Region as the official legal newspaper for the year 2024;WHEREAS, the Northern Light Region, as the official legal newspaper for the year 2024, is awarded the first publication of the annual financial statement at $8.00 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 2024, is awarded the first publication of the notice and list of the real estate remaining delinquent taxes on the first Monday of January, at $8.00 per standard advertising unit and; WHEREAS, the Northern Light Region, as the official legal newspaper for the year 2024, is awarded the second publication of the notice and list of the real estate remaining delinquent taxes, at $8.00 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 2024.
		Lake of the Woods County Bid Tabulation Legal Publishing  Year 2024 January 2, 2024 Per Standard Advertising Unit Financial StatementDelinquent Tax ListAll Other Publications 1st Publ.2nd Publ1st Publ2nd Publ    Northern Light Region PO Box 1134   8.00        8.008.008.008.008.00 Baudette, MN  56623 218-634-2700 Award To: Official Legal Newspaper Northern Light Region 1st Publ/Financial Stmnt 8.00  2nd Publ/Financial Stmnt If applicable8.00N/A  1st Delinq Tax List 8.00        2nd Delinq Tax List 8.00          All Other 8.00

County Auditor/treasurer

Bank Signature Cards

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, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Connie Nesmith and Chair Cody Hasbargen to sign the RiverWood Bank signature cards for account numbers 6443,6484,3846,8645.

RiverWood Bank Signature Cards

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof 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 Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen 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 Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund 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 Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to designate the following institutions as Official Depositories of county funds for the year 2024:

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

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 2024 Minimum Salaries for Elected Officials to the board for approval.

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

Resolution For

Establishing Minimum Salaries for Elective Offices

Resolution No. 2024-01-02

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 2024:

County Attorney: $96,646.56

County Recorder: $73,464.80

County Sheriff: $81,974.56

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

Approval of 2024 Committees

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following committees for the year 2024:

2024 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; Alternate: Commissioners

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

2024 COUNTY RELATED COMMITTEES

Airport Commission:  Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and Commissioner Jon Waibel;

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, Nyla O’Connell and Sandy Peterson. Extension Members: Brenda Nelson, Lisa Loegering and Karen Santl. 

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

Data Privacy Administrator: Savanna Slick; Lorene Hanson; Michelle Moren

Department Head Liaison: Chair/Commissioner Cody Hasbargen; Alternates: Commissioners;

Department Liaisons:  

Assessor – Commissioner Joe Grund;

Land and Water Planning Office – Commissioner Buck Nordlof;

Attorney – Commissioner Buck Nordlof; 

MIS – Commissioner Ed Arnesen; 

Sheriff – Commissioner Jon Waibel; 

Social Services – Commissioner Cody Hasbargen; 

Recorder – Commissioner Buck Nordlof; 

Highway – Commissioner Ed Arnesen; 

Auditor/Treasurer – Commissioner Cody Hasbargen; 

H/R – Commissioner Jon Waibel; 

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 Cody Hasbargen

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 Cody Hasbargen , Michelle Moren, Savanna Slick, Daryl Fish, Josh Stromlund and Angie Eason; Alternate: Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Information Systems/Technology Committee: Commissioner Joe Grund, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Peder Hovland, Josh Stromlund, Boyd Johnson, Lorene Hanson, Craig Severs and Michelle Moren; 

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

Jail Committee: Commissioners, Gary Fish, Anthony Pirkl, Michelle Moren, 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, Michelle Moren 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;

Opioid Committee: Commissioner Joe Grund, Kay Schell (Public Health), Doris Knutson, Sandy Peterson (County Prevention Coalition), Craig Severs (Law Enforcement), Jodi Ferrier (Social Services), Michelle Moren (Attorney), Lake of the Woods School, and Lakewood Health;

Ordinance Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Jon Waibel, Michelle Moren, Gary Fish,Josh Stromlund, Mike Hirst; 

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 Michelle Moren;

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;

2024 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 Cody Hasbargen 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: Michelle Moren; 

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 12/31/26) these are three-year terms; Alternate: Cody Hasbargen

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

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;

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, Michelle Moren, Lorene Hanson; Alternate: Craig Severs.

DITCH AUTHORITY

Motion

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

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 Ed Arnsen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund  and carried unanimously to close the Ditch Authority meeting and reconvene the regular meeting.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel 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/Ditch Meeting Date

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to set the county road tour date and the annual ditch meeting date for October 23, 2024 with the time being determined at a later date.

ARPA Update

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

NORTHWEST ANGLE UPDATE

County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson informed the board that the checks for the forgivable loans were sent out on December 29, 2023 for a total of $2,100,000.00, the amount approved during 2023 legislation.

ADJOURN

Motion

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

Attest: January 9, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair Cody Hasbargen

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