June 30, 2025

Special Meeting

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in special session on Tuesday, June 30,2025 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

Chair Jon Waibel called the meeting to order at 9:45a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Cody Hasbargen, Joe Grund, Jon Waibel, Ed Arnesen, and Buck Nordlof. Also present was County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

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

IT Director

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to appoint John Butenhoff as Director of Information Technology (IT) at Grade 24, Step 7 at $54.32 per hour and to revisit the position in one year effective June 30, 2025.

IT Systems Support Specialist

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to hire an IT Systems Support Specialist at Grade 12, Step 3 at $27.15 per hour or Grade 12, Step 5 at $28.17 per hour and to revisit the position in six months.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 9:50 a.m.

Attest: July 8, 2025

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Jon Waibel

June 24, 2025

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, June 24,2025 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Lost Warrant, JD 28 Petition Update.

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 June 10, 2025.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $1,624.59; Commissioners Warrants $3,958.39; Commissioners Warrants $46,845.01.

Donation Acceptance

Resolution

DONATION TO LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY

Pursuant MN Stat. § 465.03

Resolution No. 25-06-02

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

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Commissioners pursuant MN Stat. § 465.03 (gifts to counties) hereby accepts a donation from the family of Elmerna Buegler for the Lake of the Woods County Social Services Department in the amount of $150.00.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that in accordance with the terms set forth by the family of Elmerna Buegler, the donors, the funds will be used to support Social Services.

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

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $24,659.69; Road & Bridge $23,526.29; County Development $600.00; Joint Ditch $1,843.00; Solid Waste $45,149.10; EDA $1,867.86.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 6/24/2025 For Payment 6/27/202

Vendor Name Amount

Baudette/City Of 6,000.00

Counties Providing Technology          4,452.00

Interstate Billing Service Inc                2,963.55

JMD Manufacturing Inc 3,839.69

Just For Kix 2,587.50

Liberty Tire Recycling, LLC    4,627.90

LOW Highway Dept 7,350.00

Mar-Kit Landfill 14,760.00

Marco Technologies LLC 3,072.00

North East Technical Service,Inc 16,448.30

True North Equipment Co 4,756.51

Verus LLC 3,644.00

26 Payments less than 2000 23,144.49

Final Total: 97,645.94

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: June 6, 2025 for $500,452.31, June 11, 2025 for $55,863.21; June 18, 2025 for $40,953.36.

Set Land Sale Date 2023 & Prior Forfeitures

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to set the land sale date for September 12, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. for properties that forfeited in 2023 and prior. 

NWA Community Greenhouse

Appoint Committee Members

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to appoint the following members to the NWA Community Greenhouse Committee: Ed Arnesen, Joe Grund, Anthony Pirkl, Paul Colson, and Joe Laurin.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to set a work session for the NWA Community Greenhouse on July 8, 2025 following the regular board meeting.

Affidavit of Lost Warrant 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the affidavit of lost warrant number 42171 in the amount of $55.71.

Human Resources

Set Special Meeting

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to post for interviews on June 30, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. and to set a special meeting for the IT Department on June 30, 2025 at 9:00 a.m.

Permission to Adjust Grades for IT Positions Tier I and II

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to adjust the grades for IT positions Tier I and II to Grade 12 and Grade 15.

Sheriff

Updates

Sheriff Gary Fish gave an update on the emergency services incident that took place at the Northwest Angle. Sheriff Fish informed the board that he did reach out to the director in Roseau and was assured that this is not the normal response for their protocol and the incident was a miscommunication with dispatch. There was further discussion about the possibility of communication devices for the Northwest Angle and helicopter services. Mr. Fish also gave an update on buoy placement on Lake of the Woods. No action was taken at this time.

Public Works

Ditch Authority

Motion

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

JD 28 Petition Update

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on the JD 28 petition and requested permission to move forward with this project.

Motion

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

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously with Commissioner Jon Waibel abstaining to approve the request to bid for the JD 28 project after a permit has been obtained.

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various Highway and Solid Waste projects. He also informed the board that the public works department is assisting Beltrami County with clean up after the storm and the billing process. It was the consensus of the board to bill Beltrami County only if they are reimbursed for the work by FEMA or the State.

Land & Water

Wetland Discussion

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund met with the board to discuss the public drainage system wetland project and requested permission to reach out to John Kolb from Rinke Noonan to draft a letter to the DNR regarding the project.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the request to have John Kolb draft a letter to the DNR regarding the public drainage system wetlands project.

Recognition of Years of Service-IT Director

Resolution

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

RECOGNITION OF YEARS OF SERVICE

Peder Hovland

Resolution No. 2025-06-03

WHEREAS, Peder Hovland has served the residents of Lake of the Woods County since June 13, 2005 as Lake of the Woods County IT Director;

WHEREAS, Peder Hovland has resigned from Lake of the Woods County Service effective June 27,2025 with 20 years of service;

NOW THEREFOR, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners extends its deepest appreciation to Peder Hovland for his dedicated service and best wishes to him;

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

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 10:06 a.m.

Attest: July 8, 2025

________________________________             _________________________________Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Jon Waibel

June 17, 2025

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at the Angle Outpost Resort, Angle Inlet, MN. 

Call To Order

Vice-Chair Joe Grund called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Cody Hasbargen, Joe Grund, and Ed Arnesen. Also present was County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson. Absent were Commissioner: Buck Nordlof, and Jon Waibel.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Cigarette License, Emergency Services, Disk Mower, and OFRA Grant. Remove: IT Department.

Northerly Park 

Joe Laurin gave an update on the ongoing Northerly Park project.

Northwest Angle Edgeriders Update

Joe Laurin reviewed various trail projects.

Public Works

Updates

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

OPERA Grant Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the OPERA grant in the amount of $18,000.00 for an excavator attachment.

Disk Mower Purchase Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of two disk mowers from Titan for $25,496.00.

PUBLIC HEARING- RECONVENE BOARD OF EQUALIZATION – JUNE 17, 2025

Motion 

Motion was made by Cody Hasbargen seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and re-open the 2025 Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting at 10:30 a.m. at the Northwest Angle with the following members present: Commissioners: Joe Grund, Cody Hasbargen, Ed Arnesen, and County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. Also present were: County Assessor Alisa Jacaobsen and Appraiser Tyler Swanson. Absent were Commissioners: Buck Nordlof, and Jon Waibel. It was noted that County Recorder Sue Ney swore in the members of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Appeal and Equalization for 2025 at the meeting on June 10, 2025.

Vice-Chair Joe Grund explained the purpose of the Board of Appeal and Equalization. He reminded the public that this meeting was only to hear appeals of the estimated market value (EMV) or classification, not for taxes or prior years’ assessments. He explained that all appeals would be heard before any action would be taken. He also explained that the valuation period the Assessor’s Office use is from sales during October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024. There was no further discussion.

Motion

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

ACTION

After hearing all the appeals, questions, comments and research reviewed, the following actions were taken:

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to accept the Lake of the Woods County Assessor’s recommendations on the following properties and to make no changes to values per the attached recommendations: James Frohreich (P#19.29.43.000); Michael Huerd (P#22.16.43.010); Thomas Schlife (P#60.34.44.060); Betty Besser (P#44.06.32.000); Wade Rennemo (P#43.01.43.000).

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to decrease the value on the following property: Raymond & Amy Friesner property owner Myhre Township, Parcel ID 21.05.32.020, decrease in total land value from $26,400.00 to $26,200.00 due to the land value being too high.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to decrease the value on the following property: Raymond & Amy Friesner property owner Myhre Township, Parcel ID 21.05.32.010, decrease in total land value from $21,700.00 to $3,700.00 due to the land value being too high.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to decrease the value on the following property: Thomas & Debra Hanson property owner City of Baudette, Parcel ID 61.62.02.010, decrease in total land value from $81,400.00 to $31,500.00 due to the land value being too high.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to decrease the value on the following property: Kevin Olson property owner City of Baudette, Parcel ID 61.50.38.070, decrease in total land value from $82,100.00 to $32,300.00 due to the land value being too high.

Amend Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to add set work session to the agenda.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to set a work session for land values on November 5, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Lobbyist Jerry Seck, Megan Knight, and Grady Harn, thanked the Commissioners for inviting them to the meeting and discussed various legislative items that included: Covid-19 Funds, Safe Boat, and Law Enforcement Center Bonding. They also reviewed the process for legislative action and how they help local communities by lobbying for their needs.

Emergency Services Response

Concerned citizen Emily Powassin (Myers) recounted an incident that took place regarding an emergency situation that required immediate response. She was able to transport the individual but was disappointed in the lack of communication and the ambulances’ refusal to cross the border to meet them. She stated that it took an hour and a half for the individual to reach the ambulance from the Northwest Angle for emergency care. Sheriff Gary Fish said he will look further into this matter and find out where the miscommunication took place and work with the board and responders for a resolution.

Auditor-Treasurer

Liquor License Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the Liquor License application from Angler’s Retreat, LLC.

Cigarette License Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the Cigarette License application from Angler’s Retreat, LLC.

Water Level Discussion

Mike Hirst joined by phone and reviewed water levels on Lake of the Woods.

Safe Boat Update

Sergeant Ben Duick gave an update that included: Safe Boat, County Buoy, and No Wake Zones.

911 Cell Phone Survey Discussion

The board reviewed the recent 911 cell phone survey.

Community Greenhouse

Paul Colson and the board discussed the possibility of a community greenhouse at the Northwest Angle. 

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to adjourn the meeting at 12:09 p.m. to be followed by the road tour.

Attest: July 8, 2025

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Vice-Chair Joe Grund

June 10, 2025

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, June 10,2025 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: County Parks Resolution, PT Landfill Help, NWA Mowing, Interview & Hire: IT Tech, MIS Director, Cliff Mining, and Legislative Update.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of May 27, 2025.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $14,057.19; Commissioners Warrants $2,821.98; Commissioners Warrants $14,130.58.

Recorder

Board of Equalization Oath

County Recorder Sue Ney swore in the members of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Appeal and Equalization for 2025 to be held on June 16, 2025.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $32,390.28; Road & Bridge $194,254.85; County Development $400.00; Solid Waste $22,330.29.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 6/10/2025 For Payment 6/13/2025

Vendor Name Amount

Co-Op Services, Inc. 11,793.72

Contech Engineered LLC 58,997.15 

Farmers Union Oil company   2,142.32 

Lady Lakers Volleyball Association   2,700.00 

Law Offices Of Patrick D. Moren 12,170.66 

Mark Sand & Gravel Co.           109,637.50 

Northdale Oil Inc.             10,124.71 

Powerplan   5,815.91 

R & Q Trucking, Inc   6,478.00 

56 Payments less than 2000 29,515.45

Final Total: 249,375.42

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: May 27, 2025 for $672,706.00; May 28, 2025 for $15,910.81; June 4, 2025 for $1,983,912.68.

NWA Agenda Discussion

The board reviewed agenda items for the meeting held at the Northwest Angle on June 17,2025 at 10:00 a.m.

Ships Wheel Wine/Beer License

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Wine and Beer License for D & J Rose, LLC and to include strong beer.

County Parks Resolution-Land Sale Surplus

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioners Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously the following:

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING COUNTY PARK FUNDING

RESOLUTION NO. 25-06-01

WHEREAS:  Minnesota Statutes 282.08 allows for a County Board to annually set aside up to 20% of the receipts from the sale of rental of county administered tax-forfeited land or from the sale of any products therefrom, after the payment of all allowable expenses, to be used for the acquisition and maintenance of county parks, as defined in Minnesota Statutes 398.31, Et. Seq.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby authorizes and directs the County Auditor/Treasurer to appropriate 20% of the allowable receipts of the forfeited tax fund of Lake of the Woods County for 2025 to be used for acquisition and maintenance of County Parks.

Public Works

Amend Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to add Northwest Angle Gravel Purchase to the agenda.

NWA Gravel Purchase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of gravel for the Northwest Angle from Accurate HD at $21.50 per cubic yard for a total of $43,000.00 out of Highway budget.

NWA Mowing

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of a John Deere lawn mower for the Northwest Angle.

Solid Waste Processor

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the counter offer for the solid waste processor position at Grade 12, Step 5, $28.17 per hour at 274 points.

Part-time Landfill Help

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the hire of part-time seasonal help at the Landfill at Grade 7, Step 1, $20.61 per hour for 18-24 hours per week.

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on the progress of various highway projects.

Remonumentation Project Update

Widseth Surveyor Chad Conner gave an update on the ongoing remonumentation project.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 9:40 a.m. and reconvened at 9:45 a.m.

Land & Water

Consideration of Interim Use Permit #25-05IU by Ronald Gatheridge

A tract located in the Southwest Quarter of the Northeast Quarter (SW1/4NE1/4), Section Twenty-eight (28), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West (Wheeler)-Parcel ID#19.28.13.060. Applicant is requesting an Interim Use Permit as required by Section 1106 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Development Zoning District (R1).

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following Interim Use Permit/Findings of Fact by Ronald Gatheridge 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 four (4) individuals.
3. The established quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
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: Ronald Gatheridge       Application Number:  25-05IU    Date:  June 10, 2025

Location/Legal Description:  A tract located in the Southwest Quarter of the Northeast Quarter (SW¼NE¼), Section Twenty-eight (28), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West.

Parcel Number:  19.28.13.060

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting an Interim Use Permit, as required by Sections 1106 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance, to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Rural Residential Zoning District (R2).

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

Explain?  Resort and recreation area.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  Water test results meet drinking water standards, and the septic is compliant.

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

Explain?  Residential and Resort area.

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

Explain?  Private driveway off of 40^th Ave NW, which is a private roadway.

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

Explain?  The site allows for ample parking and there should be no more traffic than normal residential use.

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?  Map was provided in the application.

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

Explain?  The water test was included in the application.

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

Explain?  The maximum number of occupants is four (4), which is identified in the 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 current septic system has received a Certificate of Compliance and it is sized for a two-bedroom house, with a maximum of four (4) occupants.

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

Explain?  As stated in the application, the established quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

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?  A floor plan was included in the 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 application.

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

Explain?  The local contact person is Gregg Hennum.

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?  Applicant is proposing no signage.

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Explain?  Applicant is not proposing fencing or screening. 

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 four (4) individuals.
3. The established quiet hours are from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am.
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  (  )

Consideration of Zone Change #25-02ZC by K&A Northern Properties, LLC

1 and 2, Block 2, Birch Acres, Section Twenty-four (24), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West (Wheeler)- Parcel ID#’s 19.61.02.010 and 19.61.02.020. Applicant is requesting a zone change from a Residential (R1) Zoning District to a Commercial-Recreation (CR) Zoning District for the purpose of allowing commercial activity on the property.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following Zone Change/Findings of Fact by K&A Northern Properties, LLC for the purpose of allowing commercial activity on the property without conditions.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Rezoning

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:		K&A Northern Properties					Date:		June 10, 2025
Location/Legal Description:			Lots 1-2, Block 2, Birch Acres Plat in Section 24, T. 162N, R. 32 W
Current Zoning Classification:				Residential (R1)		Proposed:		Commercial-Recreation (CR)
Parcel Number(s):	19.61.02.010, 19.61.02.020				Application Number:					25-02ZC

The County Board of Commissioners shall consider all facts from all sources prior to rendering a decision relating to a proposed zone change. Its judgment shall be based upon but not limited to the following factors as applicable.

1. Is the zone change consistent with the Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Land Use Plan?

X  Yes ___No

Comments:	Promote economic activity and in the growth corridor.

2. Are the existing surrounding land uses consistent with the proposed zoning classification?

X  Yes ___No

Comments:	Surrounded by commercial activity.

3. Will the zone change alter the characteristics of the neighborhood?

__­_Yes X  No

Comments:	No change.

4. Is there a potential for public health, safety or traffic generation impacts based on the proposed zone change and how will they be addressed?

__­_Yes X  No

Comments:	No change.

5. What additional public services would be necessitated and would existing utilities be sufficient to accommodate the proposal?

X  Yes ___No

Comments:	Existing services are sufficient.

6. Will the zone change impede the normal or orderly development and improvement of surrounding property for uses permitted in the zoning district?

__­_Yes X  No

Comments:	No change.

7. Has there been a change in the development in the general area of the property in question?

__­_Yes X  No

Comments:	No change.

8.   Will the zone change have a negative effect on property values in the neighborhood?

__­_Yes X  No

Comments:	No change.

Conditions:

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby DENIES / APPROVES the application for a zone change WITH / WITHOUT special conditions.

Consideration of Zone Change #25-03ZC by Nels Holte

Lots 3 and 4, Block 6, Morris Point Estates, Section Twenty (20), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West (Wheeler)- Parcel ID#’s 19.69.06.030 and 19.69.6.040. Applicant is requesting a zone change from a Residential (R1) Zoning District to a Commercial-Recreation (CR) Zoning District for the purpose of allowing commercial activity on the property.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the following Zone Change/Findings of Fact by Nels Holte for the purpose of allowing commercial activity on the property without conditions.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Rezoning

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:		Nels Holte					Date:		June 10, 2025
Location/Legal Description:			Lots 3-4, Block 6, Morris Point Estates in Section 20, T. 162N, R. 32 W
Current Zoning Classification:				Residential (R1)		Proposed:		Commercial-Recreation (CR)
Parcel Number(s):	19.69.06.030, 19.69.06.040				Application Number:					25-03ZC

The County Board of Commissioners shall consider all facts from all sources prior to rendering a decision relating to a proposed zone change. Its judgment shall be based upon, but not limited to the following factors as applicable.

1. Is the zone change consistent with the Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Land Use Plan?

  X  Yes ___No

Comments:	Resort area and commercial activities in area.

2. Are the existing surrounding land uses consistent with the proposed zoning classification?

  X  Yes ___No

Comments:	Other commercial in area.

3. Will the zone change alter the characteristics of the neighborhood?

__­_Yes   X  No

Comments:	No change.

4. Is there a potential for public health, safety or traffic generation impacts based on the proposed zone change and how will they be addressed?

__­_Yes   X  No

Comments:	No change.

5. What additional public services would be necessitated and would existing utilities be sufficient to accommodate the proposal?

__X  Yes __  No

Comments:	Existing utilities are sufficient.

6. Will the zone change impede the normal or orderly development and improvement of surrounding property for uses permitted in the zoning district?

__­_Yes __X  No

Comments:	No change.

7. Has there been a change in the development in the general area of the property in question?

__­_Yes   X  No

Comments:	No change.

8.   Will the zone change have a negative effect on property values in the neighborhood?

__­_Yes   X  No

Comments:	No change.

Conditions:	None

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby DENIES / APPROVES the application for a zone change WITH / WITHOUT special conditions.

Sportsman Club

Loren Arveson reviewed new trails and signs and requested a letter of support for the proposed route for trails.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve a letter of support for the Roseau/Lake of the Woods Sportsman Club new trail proposal.

Jason Kruse-Hazy Daze Cannabis License

Jason Kruse representing Hazy Daze reviewed their business plan and informed the board that they have received preliminary cannabis license approval and requested the board consider supporting their business. No action was taken at this time.

Interview & Hire- IT Tech

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the request to interview and hire an IT Tech.

Permission to Post Internally-MIS Director

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the request to post internally for the MIS Director position.

Permission to Interview MIS Director

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the request to interview for the MIS Director position.

Legislative Update

Commissioner Ed Arnesen gave a legislative update regarding the safe boat application.

Cliffs Mining Update

The board discussed touring the mine in September. The board also discussed the Cliffs agreement and noted they are still waiting for a response from the DNR.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 10:45 a.m.

Attest: June 24, 2025

________________________________             _________________________________Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Jon Waibel

COMMISSIONER PROCEEDINGS

June 25, 2024

 The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, June 25, 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: Cody Hasbargen, Jon Waibel, Ed Arnesen, Buck Nordlof, 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 Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Law Enforcement Center, Northwest Angle Review, Election Emergency Plan, and Interim Ordinance-Cannabis. Remove: Roberta Cook.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of June 11, 2024.

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 $2,308.65; Commissioners Warrants $8,819.31; Commissioners Warrants $6,114.32.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $87,000.31; Road & Bridge $13,811.48; County Development $1,000.00; Joint Ditch $45,922.62; Solid Waste $26,102.83.

                                 WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 6/25/2024 For Payment 6/28/2024

CentralSquare Technologies, LLC                        46,907.78 

Clay County Sheriff                                                 2,485.57 

Counties Providing Technology                               4,327.00 

Farmers Union Oil Co.                                             3,467.97 

HDR Engineering Inc                                            16,356.60 

Houston Engineering Inc                                          9,298.00 

Laine/Robert                                                             2,225.00 

North East Technical Service,Inc                            19,306.35 

Pennington County Sheriff Office                           13,520.94 

Roseau County Treasurer                                         34,806.37 

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance                                   6,268.50 

34 Payments less than 2000 14,867.16 

Final Total: 173,837.24                        

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: June 12, 2024 for $61,959.10; June 20, 2024 for $25,799.05.

DNR Registration Contract Renewal

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the five-year contract between the Department of Natural Resources and the Lake of the Woods County Deputy Registrar office for the use of the registration and titling electronic license system and for Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Emergency Election Plan Renewal

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the updated Emergency Election Plan.

Interim Ordinance-Cannabis

It was the consensus of the board to table this discussion until the next board meeting on July 9, 2024.

Northwest Angle Meeting Review

The board reviewed discussion on a community greenhouse, road maintenance, Guardian Ambulance Flight services, the ice roads and lake levels.

Resolution of Support-Pheasant’s Forever

The board reviewed the requested resolution in support of the sale of land to Pheasant’s Forever. No action was taken at this time.

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various Solid Waste/Highway projects including Demolition Landfill, and current road maintenance projects.

DNR Wildlife-Charlie Tucker

DNR Wildlife Supervisor Charlie Tucker gave an update on various wildlife management projects and answered questions from the board.

Adjourn

Motion

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

Attest: July 9, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Cody Hasbargen