March 10, 2026

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 10,2026 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Legislative Update. Remove: PLSS Grant Update.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of February 24,2026.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $6,996.76; Commissioners Warrants $1,673.45; Commissioners Warrants $34,935.54.

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 $94,793.52; Road & Bridge $97,863.28; Solid Waste $30,003.95; EDA $25.00.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION 

Warrants Approved On 3/10/2026 For Payment 3/13/2026 

Vendor Name Amount 

Auto Value Baudette 2,973.66 

Braun Intertec Corporation 3,062.50 

ByteSpeed, LLC 39,075.00 

Doosan Bobcat North America Inc. 64,786.17 

Esri 20,600.00 

Farmers Union Oil company 2,233.42 

Grand Trailer Sales 3,924.00 

Hoffman, Philipp & Martell, PLLC 6,100.00 

Integris LLC 2,240.07 

Interstate Engineering Inc 3,870.00 

Law Offices of Patrick D. Moren 12,014.66 

Mar-Kit Landfill 14,894.35 

Northdale Oil Inc. 14,835.39 

R & Q Trucking, Inc 6,264.00 

Sandpieper Design Inc. 4,275.00 

Ziegler, Inc 2,951.98 

40 Payments less than 2000 18,585.55 

Final Total: 222,685.75 

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: February 26, 2026 for $10,728.21; March 5, 2026 for $107,478.55.

Post Prom Donation

Motion

LOW Women of Today- Prom Donation

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to donate $200.00 out of levied funds to the post prom party.

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects

Equipment Purchase-2021 Schulte Mower

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of a 2021 Schulte Mower from Roseau County in the amount of $23,500.00.

Equipment Purchase-Trailers

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of 4 recycling trailers and 1 cardboard trailer in the amount of $137,732.00 with a portion of it up to 95% to be paid for out of the recycling grant.

Solid Waste-Demo Rates

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the request to adjust the demo rates as follows:

Regular Demo: $20 per yard

Sort/Garbage Demo: $25 per yard

Shingles: $10 per yard

Clean Wood: $5 per yard

Attorney

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to add Tobin Fisheries Contract to the agenda.

Tobin Fisheries Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously with Commissioner Buck Nordlof abstaining to approve the draft contract between Lake of the Woods County and Jim Miekel regarding the Tobin Fisheries building contingent upon the approval of Mr. Miekel’s Attorney.

2026 Attorney Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve a 3% cost of living increase for County Attorney Michelle Moren in the amount of $4200.00 with a retroactive date of January 1, 2026.

Sheriff

Updates

County Sheriff Gary Fish and Tami Mauer gave an update to the board regarding the recent jail inspection and reviewed maintenance that included painting and replacement of bathroom fixtures.

Add to Agenda

Motion

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

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to set a work session for Maintenance on March 24,2026 following the regular board meeting.

Change Work Session Date

Motion

Motion was  made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to move the work session with the DNR that was set for March 24,2026 to April 28, 2026 following the regular board meeting.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 10:00 a.m.

Attest: March 24, 2026

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Joe Grund

March 25, 2025

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 25, 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 changes: Add: Roof Repair Update, Legislative Update, Arrowhead Library. 

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 March 11, 2025.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $13,081.57; Commissioners Warrants $1,788.56; Commissioners Warrants $50,235.50.

Approval of Beltrami County & LOTW County Fraud Agreement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the agreement between Beltrami County and Lake of the Woods County for the Fraud Prevention Investigation (FPI) Program effective July 1,2025 through June 30,2027 and for Social Services Director Amy Ballard to sign the same.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $97,771.08; Road & Bridge $25,604.21; Solid Waste $20,968.98; EDA $1,429.38.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Approved On 3/25/2025 For Payment 3/28/2025

Vendor Name             Amount

American Engineering Testing, Inc. 4,442.00 

ByteSpeed, LLC 33,243.00 

Compass Minerals America 7,162.77 

John Deere Financial 2,507.80

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 19,545.00 

LOW Highway Dept 2,400.00 

MN Counties Intergovernmental 10,000.00 

Northdale Oil Inc. 17,202.50 

R & Q Trucking, Inc 4,341.00 

State Of Minnesota 16,000.00 

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50 

38 Payments less than 2000 22,661.08

Final Total: 145,773.65

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: March 13, 2025 for $23,973.14; March 19,2025 for $84,774.33.

Classification of Tax Forfeited Lands

Resolution

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

TAX FORFEITED LAND SALE

RESOLUTION NO. 25-03-02

WHEREAS; the County Board of Commissioners of the County of Lake of the Woods, State of Minnesota, desires to offer for sale certain parcels of land that have forfeited to the State of Minnesota for non-payment of taxes, and

WHEREAS, said parcels of land have been viewed by the County Board of Commissioners and have been classified as non-conservation lands as provided for in Minnesota Statutes 282.01.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby certify that the parcels of land listed below, have been viewed and comply with the provisions of Minnesota Statutes 85.012; 92.461; 282.01, subd. 8; and 282.018; and other statutes that require the withholding of tax-forfeited lands from the sale. 

2023 and Prior:

Non-Conservation Parcels: 31.10.23.050,22.25.21.010,62.51.00.070,44.11.32.030,44.11.32.020

Conservation Parcels:49.22.31.000.

2024 Non-Conservation Parcel: 62.51.00.450

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED; that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby request approval from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for the sale of said lands.

Set Work Session- IT

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to set a work session for the IT Department on April 8^th, 2025 following the regular board meeting.

Arrowhead Library

County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson informed the board that Colleen Stanton is no longer available to be a representative on the Arrowhead Library board. Mrs. Stanton offered a few names of individuals who might be interested in replacing her. No action was taken at this time.

Public Works

Approval of SAP 039-629-001

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the bid for SAP 039-629-001 from Red Lake Builders in the amount of $2,901,772.15.

Transfer of Old Plow to City

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the transfer of an old plow to the City of Baudette.

Letter of Support-State Park Road Account-Gull Rock Boat Launce

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve a letter of support for the request to secure state park road account funding for improvements to Township Road 349 (Gull Rock Road).

LCCMR Resolution

Resolution

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

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY, MINNESOTA

Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resource (LCCMR)

RESOLUTION 2025-03-01

WHEREAS, The Lake of the Woods County seeks $550,000.00 to Phase II Investigation of Pine and Curry Island SNA.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That Lake of the Woods County supports the above referenced project and authorizes the submittal of a proposal for funding of this project on behalf of the Lake of the Woods County to the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) in response to the 2026 Environmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) Request for Proposal; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That, if funding is awarded, the Lake of the Woods County agrees to accept the award and may enter into an agreement with the state of Minnesota for the above referenced project. Lake of the Woods County will comply with all applicable laws, environmental requirements, and regulations and any additional conditions stated in the grant agreement and the approved LCCMR work plan; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That Lake of the Woods County understands that grants from the ENRTF are generally paid out on a reimbursement basis. Lake of the Woods County has the financial capability to pay for project expenses prior to seeking reimbursement; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That Lake of the Woods County certifies none of the current principals of Lake of the Woods County have been convicted of a felony financial crime in the last ten years. For this purpose, a principal is defined as a public official, a board member, or staff that would have the authority to access or determine the use of ENRTF funds, if awarded; and  

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That Anthony Pirkl – Public Works Director is hereby authorized to execute such agreements and work plans as necessary and Anthony Pirkl is authorized to implement the project on behalf of the Lake of the Woods County.

NWA Transfer Station Camera Purchase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of 2 cameras and software with a 10-year warranty in the amount of $7,017.00.

Approval for NACE Attendance & Travel

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve out of state travel for the National Association of County Engineers (NACE) April 14^th-17^th 2025.

Updates

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

Veterans of Lake of the Woods County-VSO Issues

Steve Levasseur, Glen Lawrence, Marie Cochran and Lake of the Woods County Veterans discussed their concerns with the board and County Veteran Services Officer (CVSO) Rick Rone regarding communication, assistance, and resources available for veterans in the area and the lack of transparency and care provided by the CVSO. The board recommended creating a veterans services committee to discuss potential changes that could be made to better serve the veterans in the community.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to appoint the following members to the Veterans Committee: Cody Hasbargen, Joe Grund, Steve Levasseur, Marie Cochran, Glen Lawrence, and Rick Rone. Mr. Rone will select two additional members at a later date.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 10:35a.m. and reconvened at 10:40 a.m.

Arena Board-Demo Fees

Janaya Wood representing the Arena Board discussed the building of a new Zamboni room and asked the board if they could waive the demolition fees for the use of the landfill.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the request to waive demolition fees for the Zamboni room project.

Human Resources

Permission to Advertise, Interview, & Hire- Solid Waste Processor

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise, interview, & hire a Solid Waste Processor at Grade 12, Step 1, $26.12 per hour at 274 points.

Roof Repair Update

The board was informed that the roof repair will begin March 24, 2025 with an estimated completion date of March 26, 2025 weather permitting.

Legislative Update

Commissioner Ed Arnesen gave a brief legislative update regarding emergency responses including safe boats and other legislative business.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 10:50 a.m.

Attest: April 8, 2025

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Jon Waibel

March 11, 2025

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 11, 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 Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with changes: Add: Affidavit for Lost Warrant, LOW Women of Today-Prom Donation Request, DOGE-FSA/SWCD Lease, Legislative Update, MCIT Insurance Update-Roof Repair, Minor Equipment Purchases, Surveyor Grant Update, Headstart/Preschool Update.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of February 25, 2025.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $10,796.09; Commissioners Warrants $3,021.69; Commissioners Warrants $62,240.20.

City of Baudette

Old Care Center-Demo Fees

Mayor Dylan Hancharyk came to the board on behalf of the City of Baudette to give an update on the demolition of the old care center building and asked for the demo fees at the landfill be waived for the completion of the project.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to waive the landfill demo fees for the old care center demolition project.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $122,395.34; Road & Bridge $12,352.37; County Development $200.00; Solid Waste $20,196.87.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 3/11/2025 For Payment 3/14/2025

Vendor Name                                                          Amount

ByteSpeed, LLC 3,251.00 

Co-Op Services, Inc. 2,424.52 

Counties Providing Technology 4,452.00 

Esri 28,400.00 

Hoffman, Philipp & Martell, PLLC 3,750.00 

Integris LLC 5,843.33 

Koochiching County Sheriff 2,220.00 

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 29,550.00 

Law Offices Of Patrick D. Moren 12,338.66 

Mar-Kit Landfill 11,461.75 

Rainy Lake Oil, Inc 2,253.01 

Schneider Geospatial, LLC 12,192.00 

Woody’s Service 7,681.43 

48 Payments less than 2000 29,326.88 

Final Total 155,144.58

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: February 26,2025 for $120,056.81; February 26,2025 for $2,520.70; March 4, 2025 for $55,438.33.

Affidavit of Lost Warrant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Affidavit of Lost Warrant number 41682.

LOW Woment of Today- Prom Donation

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to donate $200.00 out of levied funds to the post prom party.

Public Works

Updates

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

Minor Equipment Purchases

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following purchases from True North: 

Highway Department: Power Rake-$11,188.00

Landfill: Grapple for Bobcat-$5,500

Surveyor Grant Update

An update was given regarding the PLSS restoration project.

Human Resources

Permission to Hire

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to hire Kimberly Fish as Eligibility Worker at Grade 11, Step 1, $24.89 per hour at 262 points.

Set Public Hearing-Small Cities Housing Rehabilitation Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to set a public hearing for the small cities housing rehabilitation grant for April 8^th, 2025 at 10:00a.m. 

Headstart/Preschool Update

The board discussed the possibility of a private owned preschool operating out of the headstart room at the school. The business was proposed at a previous school board meeting.

Legislative Update

Commissioner Ed Arnesen gave an update regarding his recent trip to the capitol to meet with Legislators.

MCIT Insurance Update-Roof Repair

MIS Director Peder Hovland, Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson, and Maintenance Supervisor Shane Shaw gave an update regarding damage to computer equipment and water damage caused by a crack in the roof. 

Myles Hogenson

New Trail Update

Myles Hogenson met with the board to give an upate regarding the Kooch Indian Pines trail.

ANTI ATV Bill

Mr. Hogenson informed the board of a new bill introduced that would restrict off road vehicles and snowmobiles use of public lands and requested a letter of support in favor of the use of public lands for trails. It was the consensus of the board to provide a letter of support opposing the restrictions.

DOGE-FSA/SWCD Lease

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund discussed recent DOGE funding terminations that will affect FSA and SWCD leases in Lake of the Woods County. The terminations have been listed on the official government website for DOGE. 

Adjourn

Motion

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

Attest: March 25, 2025

________________________________             _________________________________Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Jon Waibel

March 26, 2024

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 26, 2024

in the ITV room at the Lake of the Woods School.

High School Social Studies teacher, Mr. Sam Longseth

Mr. Sam Longseth thanked the Commissioners for meeting at the School so his students could attend and participate in the meeting. Also present was retired Social Studies teacher Don Krause.

Call To Order

Chair Cody Hasbargen called the meeting to order at 8:15 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Buck Nordlof, Cody Hasbargen, Joe Grund, Jon Waibel, and Ed Arnesen. Also present was County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson. The Board introduced themselves to the students and which districts they represented.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add Closed Session and Correspondence.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the minutes of March 12, 2024. 

Lake of the Woods Treatment Court

Judge Donna Dixon and Maria Pahlen presented on the process and the purpose of the Lake of the Woods Treatment Court. Alex Stodgell spoke to the board about how the treatment courts can help lead people living with substance use out of the justice system and into lives of recovery and stability and his own experiences with this program.

National Leadership Forum

Sandy Peterson, Doris Knutson and four Lake of the Woods Students, gave a presentation about their recent trip to Washington D.C. for the Community Anti-drug Coalition of America (CADCA) conference. The students discussed the benefits of meeting new people and learning how to have hard discussions about drugs and alcohol. Sandy Peterson discussed the local statistics of drug and alcohol use amongst teens in Lake of the Woods County and how other students could participate in the National Leadership Forum.

Public Works

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl introduced himself to the class and gave an overview of his position at the County.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to add gravel source bids to the agenda.

Permission to bid FEMA Plans

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on FEMA funds in the amount of $235,000 for various highway projects and requested permission to bid for those plans.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to bid for FEMA projects.

Permission to bid Gravel Source

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to bid for a gravel source.

DNR Fisheries (Matt Skoog)

DNR Fisheries Supervisor Matt Skoog gave an update about the sturgeon and walleye population and discussed the process for repopulating by using hatcheries and stocking the red river.

Social Services

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

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $1,791.10; Commissioners Warrants $1,203.99; Commissioners Warrants $18,685.77.

Auditor/Treasurer

County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson introduced herself to the students and gave an overview of the Auditor/Treasurer department and services.

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $34,383.34; Road & Bridge $22,650.44; Solid Waste $6,718.50; EDA $1,488.76.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 3/26/2024 For Payment 3/29/2024

Vendor Name Amount

Cdw Government, Inc 6,630.87

Clay County Sheriff 2,320.00

Integris LLC 2,188.23

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 10,260.00

Quadient Finance USA Inc. 6,000.00

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

William Alexander Johnson 19,231.21

24 Payments less than 2000 12,342.23

Final Total: 65,241.04

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: March 13, 2024 for $57,723.00; March 20, 2024 for $12,654.54.

DNR Wildlife (Scott Laudenslager)

DNR Wildlife Manager Scott Laudenslager gave an update on various maintenance projects, Deer and Bear permits/harvest areas, and discussed upcoming summer projects.

Human Resources

Job Description Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the job description for the Facilities Supervisor and Safety Operator position.

Facilities Supervisor and Safety Operator Grade Increase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the grade increase for Facilities Supervisor & Safety Operator Shane Shaw to Grade 11, Step 12 at $28.20 per hour at 251 points effective next full pay period.

Approval of Step Increase for Custodian II

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve a step increase for Custodian II  Dylan Eason from Grade 6 Step 6 to Grade 6 Step 9 at 20.61 per hour effective next full pay period.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to set a work session for maintenance for April 9, 2024 following the regular board meeting.

County Surveyor-PLSS Restoration Project

County Surveyor Chad Conner came to the board to request a resolution for the Public Land Survey System Restoration Project.

Resolution

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

Resolution to submit a proposal to the legislative-citizen commission on minnesota resources for public land survey system restorations 

Resolution No. 2024-03-01

WHEREAS, The Lake of the Woods County Land Surveyor’s Office has the opportunity to request funding from the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) for the project titled “LOTW PLSS Restoration” up to the amount of $265,000, in Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF); and

WHEREAS, The Lake of the Woods County Auditor’s Office has reviewed the funding request and the “Duties of a Fiscal Agent” document provided by the State and is fully aware of the work that will occur if funded, the project timeline, and the project budget.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Lake of the Woods County Board authorizes the Lake of the Woods County Land Surveyor’s Office to submit a proposal for the project titled “LOTW PLSS Restoration” up to the amount of $265,000 for grant funding from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) funding from the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR).

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Lake of the Woods County Board authorizes the Lake of the Woods County Auditor’s Office to act as a fiscal agent if funding is awarded for the 2024 project titled “LOTW PLSS Restoration”, and will comply with all terms as stated in the fiscal agent agreement.

Toward Zero Death

TZD Coordinator Sue Johnson, State Aid Engineer Brian Ketring, Assistant District Engineer William Pirkl, met with the board and presented a power point and information on the Towards Zero Death Task Force and the importance of safe driving and wearing seatbelts. William Pirkl gave an update on various highway projects and the installation of roundabouts in the area.

Recess

A brief recess took place from 11:50a.m. and reconvened at 1:20p.m.

Pine to Prairie Task Force

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

Recess

A brief recess took place at 2:00p.m. and reconvened at the Lake of the Woods County Government Center Commissioners Room at 2:30p.m.

Closed Session

Resolution

The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the following:

Resolution Closing Board Meeting

Resolution No. 2024-03-02

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 was served on March 20, 2024 with a United States District Court Summons and Complaint dated March 14, 2024, signed by Gregory M. Erickson, attorney for  Plaintiffs Jennifer Audette and Robert Audette, alleging that Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners violated, inter alia, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and, requesting, inter alia, that the court require the County to remedy the alleged ADA violation and award damages; 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 United States District Court action. 

Adopted by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota this 26^th day of March, 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 at 2:50p.m.

Correspondence

The board reviewed correspondence from Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof to add Cliffs Discussion to the agenda.

Cliffs Discussion

The board and Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund discussed the Cliff’s agreement.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to have Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund, and Commissioners: Jon Waibel, and Ed Arnesen have a meeting with Cliffs to review options.

Adjourn

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 3:35p.m.

Attest: April 9, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair Cody Hasbargen

 March 12, 2024

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 12, 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, Ed Arnesen, Jon Waibel, Buck Nordlof, and Joe Grund. Also Present was Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Legislative Updates

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of February 27, 2024.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $32,337.05; Commissioners Warrants $2,055.79; Commissioners Warrants $25,627.43.

Sanford Crisis Contract Addendum

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the Sanford Crisis Contract Addendum to amend the dates of the original contract.

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 $174,611.12; Road & Bridge $80,671.35; Joint Ditch $11,432.50; Solid Waste $41,347.44; EDA $3,640.00; Taxes & Penalties ($390.00). 

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 3/12/2024 For Payment 3/15/2024

Vendor Name Amount

Auto Value Baudette 2,241.86

ByteSpeed, LLC 2,468.00

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 11,816.57

Counties Providing Technology 4,327.00

Esri 28,400.00

Law Offices Of Patrick D. Moren 9,226.53

LOW Fair Association 34,610.00

LOW Highway Dept 14,403.75

LOW School District–390 3,472.00

Mar-Kit Landfill 11,397.50

Mn Dept Of Transportation 3,364.35

Pennington County Sheriff Office 20,203.29

Powerplan 9,332.28

Pro Mac Equipment Ltd. 4,027.18

R & Q Trucking, Inc 4,277.00

T-C Lighting 17,652.60

Traffic and Parking Control Co., Inc. 46,412.50

University of North Dakota 9,520.90

Voyageurs Comtronics, Inc 37,225.00

Wright Locksmith and Security Systems 2,606.95

70 Payments less than 2000 34,327.15

Final Total: 311,312.41

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: February 28, 2024 for $13,033.93; March 5, 2024 for $245,965.96; March 6, 2024 for $64,628.84

Donation Request

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve a request from the Lake of the Woods Women of Today for a Post Prom donation in the amount of $200.00.

Cigarette License Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the cigarette license application from J & L Hennum Sportsman’s Lodge.

Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative (JDAI)

Northern Region Coordinator Christopher Stolan gave a presentation about the Juvenile Detention Alternative Initiative. No action was taken at this time.

Public Works

Updates

Highway Maintenance Supervisor Keith Grund gave an update on various highway projects

Approval of Stop Signs Payment

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of lighted stop signs in the amount of $46,412.50 to be paid for out of ARPA funds.

Approval of Plow Truck Payment

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the payment of a plow truck up to the remaining balance of ARPA funds.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to add Lake of the Woods Cannabis Company to the agenda.

Lake of the Woods Cannabis Company

Eric Nerland came to the board to discuss the Lake of the Woods Cannabis Company business and intentions within the county. He would like the board to consider this business for a license when they become available for issuance.

Land & Water

Feedlot Annual Report

Resource Conservationist Mike Hirst presented the Feedlot Annual Report for approval.

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the Feedlot Annual Report and for Chair Cody Hasbargen to sign the same.

Feedlot Update-Discussion on Proposed Language

Resource Conservationists Mike Hirst and Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund discussed proposed language for new regulations/requirements and requested feedback from the board.

Human Resources

Personnel Committee Recommendations

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following recommendations from the Personnel Committee effective next full pay period:

Auditor/Treasurer Fiscal Officer Rita Hasbargen: Grade 15, Step 10, $33.78 per hour at 336 points

Auditor/Treasurer DL/MV Election Supervisor Erik Tange: Grade 14, Step 8, $30.84 per hour at 311 points

Auditor/Treasurer Treasury Service Manager Connie Nesmith: Grade 12, Step 5, $26.17 per hour at 267 points

Auditor/Treasurer Property Tax/Board Admin Anna Sanchez: Grade 13, Step 7, $28.69 per hour at 287 points

Auditor/Treasurer License Clerk Chelsea Anderson: Grade 11, Step 6 $25.30 per hour at 253 points

IT Systems Administrator John Butenhoff: Grade 18, Step 10, $39.76 per hour at 419 points

MIS/GIS Coordinator Eric Solo: Grade 18, Step 10, $39.76 per hour at 419 points

Deputy Recorder Christie Russell: Grade 12, Step 12, $29.77 per hour at 267 points

Job Description Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the job descriptions for Auditor/Treasurer Fiscal Officer, DL/MV Election Supervisor, Treasury Service Manager, and Property Tax/Board Aministrator.

Building Committee- Craig Severs

Carpet quote approval for Government Center North Training Room

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the quote from Pirkl Lumber in the amount of $3629.48 for new carpet in the Government Center North Training room and plank flooring in the kitchen to be paid for out of building funds.

Legislative Updates

Commissioner Ed Arnesen gave an update on his recent trip to the capital meeting with Legislators regarding bonding for a new law enforcement building.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 11:05 a.m.

Attest: March 26, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair Cody Hasbargen