March 28, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 28, 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, Jon Waibel, Ed Arnesen and Joe Grund. Also present was Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Legislative 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 March 14, 2023.

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 $18,195.00; Commissioners Warrants $3,091.09; Commissioners Warrants $6,117.19.

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 $33,119.19; Road & Bridge $16,893.51; Solid Waste $9,020.83.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 3/28/2023 For Payment 3/31/2023

Vendor Name Amount

CentralSquare Technologies, LLC 2,340.00

Compass Minerals America 3,021.63

Lake of the Woods Electric LLC 2,703.76

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 15,798.75

Northwest Community Action, Inc 5,000.00

Pemberton Law, P.L.L.P. 2,174.34

Stratton Equipment Sales & Service Ltd 9,078.83

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

23 Payments less than 2000 12,647.72

Final Total: 59,033.53

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: March 14, 2023 for $16,474.14, March 22, 2023 $22,247.55.

Juneteenth

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve Juneteenth as a county holiday effective June 19, 2024. 

Post Prom Donation

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve a donation of $200.00 to the Post Prom Party. 

Law Enforcement Labor Services Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the LELS Contract with the salary change effective the next full pay period. 

DNR

Scott Laudenslager gave an update on deer and bear habitats, habitat work, brush work, and controlled burns. 

Mr. Laudenslager also answered questions about grouse season.

Maintenance

Bloodborne Policy & Exposure Control Plan

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the updated Bloodborne Policy & Exposure Control Plan.

Public Works

Heavy Equipment Operator Grade Increase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve an increase from Grade 11 to Grade 12 with the most equivalent step for Heavy Equipment Operator and Solid Waste Operators effective next full pay period. 

Deputy Accountant Grade Increase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve an increase from Grade 10 to Grade 11 with the most equivalent step for Deputy Accountant Christi Pierce effective next full pay period. 

Federal Funding SP 039-598-071

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION

For Agreement to State Transportation Fund 

Local Bridge Replacement Program

Grant Terms and Conditions

SP 039-598-071

Resolution No – 23-03-02

March 28, 2023

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has applied to the Commissioner of Transportation for a grant from the Minnesota State Transportation Fund for construction of Bridge No. 92633; and

WHEREAS, the Commissioner of Transportation has given notice that funding for this project is available; and

WHEREAS, the amount of the grant has been determined to be $_116,288.68_ by reason of the lowest responsible bid;

WHEREAS, NOW THEREFORE, be it resolved that Lake of the Woods County does hereby agree to the terms and conditions of the grant consistent with Minnesota Statutes, section 174.50, and will pay any additional amount by which the cost exceeds the estimate, and will return to the Minnesota State Transportation Fund any amount appropriated for the project but not required.  The proper county officers are authorized to execute a grant agreement and any amendments thereto with the Commissioner of Transportation concerning the above-referenced grant.

NWA Road ROW Brushing

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update regarding the Northwest Angle road right-of-way brushing that will begin on April 10, 2023. Letters will be sent to adjacent property owners. 

PFAAS 3^rd Party Study Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the use of a 3^rd party for PFAAS testing at the landfill with Bar Engineering in the amount of $4,000.

Land & Water

Purchase Approval-File Folders

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of 1,000 file folders in the amount of $956.82 from the Land & Water Budget.

Indus School 

Resolution

The following Resolution was offered by Commission Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following:

A RESOLUTION OF THE LAKE OF THE WOODS BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AFFIRMATION, COMMITMENT AND SUPPORT OF THE INDUS SCHOOL

Resolution No.  23-03-03

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods Board of County Commissioners is committed to making decisions that promote quality educational programs and services to school-age children of our community and surrounding communities; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of County Commissioners believes that a quality public education serves as an essential foundation to and has an integral impact on school-age children’s future and the counties economic well-being; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods Board of County Commissioners believes that education is an important asset in maximizing the opportunities of an individual and a community; and

WHEREAS, rural public schools have a positive impact on the lives of countless students and enhance county initiatives by providing employment opportunities for residents, retaining families within a community, and providing alternative educational opportunities for students that meet the need of the whole student; and

WHEREAS, school closures affect all aspects of our students’ lives, such as food and housing security, healthcare, safety, and educational technology; and

WHEREAS, school closures negatively impact a community and surrounding counties from a social, economic, and population standpoint; and

WHEREAS, our nation’s future well-being relies on providing our most vulnerable students access to high quality education and programs that meet their needs;

WHEREAS, quality public education for every child is integral to the viability and economic future of developing communities, by directly and indirectly contributing to the intellectual and physical development of all individuals regardless of circumstances; and

WHEREAS, the potential closure of a public schoolhouse serves to deepen the inequalities and diminish the opportunities for every child and diminishes our economic stability; and

 WHEREAS, the Indus school provides quality education that meets the needs for students that reside in both  Koochiching County and Lake of the Woods County.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the commitment to promote access to quality public education for students of all types is a cornerstone to Lake of the Woods Board of County Commissioners. As a County and neighboring school partnership, Lake of the Woods is committed to ensuring its residents have access to public education that meets their needs.

THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Commissioners does hereby affirm its support for the public education offered at Indus school and supports efforts to reconsider closure to allow for further discussion.

ADOPTED by the Lake of the Woods Board of County Commissioners (Ed Arnesen, Joe Grund, Cody Hasbargen, Buck Nordlof and Jon Waibel), State of Minnesota, at the regular open public meeting thereof, held this 28th day of March, 2023.

Sheriff

BCA Joint Powers Agreement

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously: 

RESOLUTION NO. 23-03-04

RESOLUTION APPROVING STATE OF MINNESOTA JOINT POWERS AGREEMENTS WITH COUNTY OF LAKE OF THE WOODS ON BEHALF OF ITS COUNTY ATTORNEY AND SHERIFF

WHEREAS, The County of Lake of the Woods on behalf of its County Attorney and Sheriff desires to enter into Joint Powers Agreements with the State of Minnesota, Department of Public Safety, Bureau of Criminal Apprehension to use systems and tools available over the State’s criminal justice data communications network for which the County is eligible. The Joint Powers Agreements further provide the county with the ability to add, modify and delete connectivity, systems and tools over the five year life of the agreement and obligates the County to pay the costs for the network connection.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Lake of the Woods County Board, Minnesota s follows: 

1. That the State of Minnesota Joint Powers Agreements by and between the State of Minnesota acting through its Department of Public Safety, Bureau of criminal Apprehension and the County of Lake of the Woods County on behalf of its County Attorney and Sheriff are herby approved.

2. That the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff, Gary Fish, or his successor, is designated the Authorized Representative for the Sheriff. The Authorized Representative is also authorized to sign any subsequent amendment or agreement that may be required by the State of Minnesota to maintain the County’s connection to the systems and tools offered by the State.

3. That the Lake of the Woods County Attorney, James Austad, or his successor, is designated the Authorized Representative for the County Attorney. The Authorized Representative is also authorized to sign any subsequent amendment or agreement that may be required by the State of Minnesota to maintain the County’s connection to the systems and tools offered by the State.

4. That Ed Arnesen, the Chair of Lake of the Woods County Board and Gary Fish, the County Sheriff, are authorized to sign the State of Minnesota Joint Powers Agreements.

Recess

With no further business before the Board, Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 10:56 a.m.

Attest: April 11, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chairman Ed Arnesen

March 14, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 14, 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, Jon Waibel, Ed Arnesen and Joe Grund. Also present was 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: Credit Card Increase, and Indus School Support. 

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 February 28, 2023.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Social Services Director Amy Ballard gave a summary of the claims and informed the board that the social worker they intended to hire did not accept the position and this position will be advertised again.

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $15,494.11; Commissioners Warrants $4,926.68; Commissioners Warrants $15,984.26.

Northwest Community Action-Vehicle Repair Program

NWCA Family Services Director Sharon Millner discussed the vehicle repair program and how it benefits families in our area by assisting with payments for vehicle repair services. They are requesting the board to contribute up to $15,000 to the program that would be used for families in Lake of the Woods County. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the request for funding with $10,000 paid for by Social Services and $5,000 from the American Rescue Plan funds for a total of $15,000 to support the vehicle repair program in Lake of the Woods County. 

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $63,534.10; Road & Bridge $58,087.07; County Development $200.00; Solid Waste $40,108.90; EDA $1,120.01.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 3/14/2023 For Payment 3/17/2023

Vendor Name Amount

Auto Value Baudette 6,584.88

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 11,391.28

Counties Providing Technology 4,204.00

Deputy Registrar No.75 2,147.02

Esri 28,400.00

Ferrellgas 4,504.76

Howard’s Oil Company 3,842.07

Integris LLC 2,560.31

Interstate Billing Service Inc 3,623.29

Lake of the Woods Electric LLC 3,784.08

LOW Highway Dept 5,917.50

Mar-Kit Landfill 12,549.50

Midway Ford Company 32,261.88

Pennington County Sheriff Office 5,155.11

Quadient Finance USA Inc. 4,000.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc 4,277.00

53 Payments less than 2000 27,847.40

Final Total: 163,050.08

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: March 1, 2023 for $53,724.73; March 6, 2023 for $643,650.77; March 7, 2023 for $437,709.54; March 8, 2023 for $184,112.57.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to set a work session for April 25, 2023 following the regular board meeting to discuss ARPA funds. 

Advertise Bid Reminder

County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson informed the board that the advertisement to bid for parcel #18.2342.000, approximately 13 acres of tillable land, is ready for publication. 

Opioid Resolution 

Resolution

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

Resolution Authorizing Lake of the Woods County Staff to Execute All Necessary Documents to Ensure Lake of the Woods County’s Participation in the Multistate Settlements Relating to Opioid Supply Chain Participants, and in the Minnesota Opioids State-Subdivision Memorandum of Agreement.

Resolution 23-03-01

WHEREAS, the State of Minnesota and numerous Minnesota cities and counties are engaged in nationwide civil litigation against opioid supply chain participants related to the opioid crisis; and

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Attorney General has signed on to multistate settlement agreements with several opioid supply chain participants, but those settlement agreements are still subject to sign-on by local governments and final agreement by the companies and approval by the courts; and 

WHEREAS, there is a deadline of April, 18 2023, for a sufficient threshold of Minnesota cities and counties to sign on to the above-referenced multistate settlement agreements, and failure to timely sign on may diminish the amount of funds received by not only that city or county but by all Minnesota cities and counties from the settlement funds; and

WHEREAS, representatives of Minnesota’s local governments, the Office of the Attorney General, and the State of Minnesota have reached agreement on the intrastate allocation of these settlement funds between the State, and the counties and cities, as well as the permissible uses of these funds, which will be memorialized in the Minnesota Opioids State-Subdivision Memorandum of Agreement, as amended (the “State-Subdivision Agreement”); and 

WHEREAS, the State-Subdivision Agreement creates an opportunity for local governments and the State to work collaboratively on a unified vision to deliver a robust abatement and remediation plan to address the opioid crisis in Minnesota; 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, Lake of the Woods County supports and agrees to the State-Subdivision Agreement; and 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, Lake of the Woods County supports and opts in to all future multistate settlement agreements with opioid supply chain participants; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, Lake of the Woods County authorizes County staff to execute all necessary documents to ensure Lake of the Woods County participation in the multistate settlement agreements, including the Participation Agreement and accompanying Release, and in the State-Subdivision Agreement.

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

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to set a work session for April 25, 2023 following the regular board meeting to discuss the Opioid funding. 

Indus School Support

Amy Hasbargen-Hanson and Christine Hultman came to the board seeking a resolution of support to appeal the closure of Indus School. Amy Hasbargen-Hanson informed the board of the issues surrounding the decision to close the school and the impact it will have on our communities. The board took no action at this time and will revisit the issue at a later date. 

Land & Water

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #23-02CU by GWE, LLC, on behalf of Thomas Finders

The East ½ East ½ NW ¼ NE ¼ , Section Twenty-Seven (27), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West- Parcel ID# 19.27.12.010. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401.C of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to allow commercial activity consisting of up to six (6) multi-unit storage buildings in a non-shoreland Rural Residential Zoning District (R2).

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following Conditional Use Permit/Findings of Fact by GWE, LLC, on behalf of Thomas Finders as required by Section 401. C of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to allow commercial activity consisting of up to six (6) multi-unit storage buildings in a non-shoreland Rural Residential Zoning District (R2) with the following conditions:

1. A wetland delineation is required.
2. Driveway and roads to be approved by the Lake of the Woods County Public Works Department for safety vehicle access.
3. The Conditional Use Permit is for applicant’s project only, as applied for and terminates in five (5) years if applicant has not constructed at least one (1) unit from date of approval.
4. No habitation is allowed.
5. If applicable, a stormwater permit will be required.
6. No overnight parking or use of the units is allowed.
7. No outside storage is allowed.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  GWE, LLC Date:  March 14, 2023

Location/Legal Description:  The East½East½NW¼NE¼, Section Twenty-seven (27), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West – Parcel ID# 19.27.12.010

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401.C of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to allow commercial activity consisting of up to six (6) multi-unit storage buildings in a non-shoreland Rural Residential Zoning District (R2).

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

Why or why not?  Commercial development.

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

YES (  ) NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?____________________________________________________________________

3. Is the project proposal consistent with the goal of preventing and controlling water pollution, including sedimentation and nutrient loading?                        YES (X) NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  See application.

4. Will the project proposal not adversely affect the site’s existing topography, drainage features, and vegetative cover?                                            YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Topography and drainage won’t be affected.

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

Why or why not?____________________________________________________________________

6. Has the erosion potential of the site based upon the degree and direction of slope, soil type and existing vegetative cover been adequately addressed for the project proposal? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not?  County Road 8. 

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

Why or why not?  Other commercial facilities. 

9)  Does the project proposal have a reasonable need to be in a shoreland location?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not?  See as planned in application.

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

Why or why not?____________________________________________________________________

12. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Existing well and sewage system in application.

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

Why or why not?____________________________________________________________________

14. If the project proposal includes above ground or below ground storage tanks for petroleum or other hazardous material that is subject to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) requirements, has a permit been sought?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?____________________________________________________________________

15. Will there be fencing and/or other screening provided to buffer the project proposal from adjacent properties?

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Existing vegetation.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  See application.

17. If the project proposal will generate additional traffic to or from the site, has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the additional traffic and parking is to be addressed? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  No overnight parking allowed.

If all answers to the Findings of Fact-Criteria are either “Yes” or are “Not Applicable” to the request, the criteria for granting the conditional use permit have been met. The conditional use permit will maintain the goals of safety, health, and general welfare of the public.  

The specific conditions of approval are as follows: 

1. A wetland delineation is required.
2. Driveway and roads to be approved by the Lake of the Woods County Public Works Department for safety vehicle access.
3. The Conditional Use Permit is for applicant’s project only, as applied for and terminates in five (5) years if applicant has not constructed at least one (1) unit from date of approval.
4. No habitation is allowed.
5. If applicable, a stormwater permit will be required.
6. No overnight parking or use of the units is allowed.
7. No outside storage is allowed.

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

March 14, 2023 _____________________________________

Date Ed Arnesen Chair, County Board

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

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #23-03CU by Grant and Savanna Slick

A tract of land located in Government Lot Two (2), Section Twenty-eight (28), Township One Hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-one (31) West- Parcel ID# 24.28.22.020. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401.B of the Lake of the Woods Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term transient rental in a Residential Development (R1) Zoning District. Rainy River is an agricultural river segment. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following Conditional Use Permit/Findings of Fact by Grant and Savanna Slick as required by Section 401.B of the Lake of the Woods Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term transient rental in a Residential Development (R1) Zoning District with the following conditions:

1. The Conditional Use Permit terminates upon sale or transfer of property.
2. The existing sewer system must be upgraded by July 8, 2024.
3. The conditional approval is contingent upon applicant meeting all other requirements as outlined in the submitted application, such as quiet hours, maximum occupancy, etc. 
4. Must meet Minnesota Department of Health requirements.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Grant and Savanna Slick Date:  March 14, 2023

Location/Legal Description:  A tract of land located in Government Lot Two (2), Section Twenty-eight 28), Township One Hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-one (31) West – Parcel ID# 24.28.22.020.

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401.B of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term transient rental in a Residential Development (R1) Zoning District. Rainy River is an agricultural river segment.

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

Why or why not?  Commercial development corridor.

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

3. Is the project proposal consistent with the goal of preventing and controlling water pollution, including sedimentation and nutrient loading?                        YES (  ) NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________ 

4. Will the project proposal not adversely affect the site’s existing topography, drainage features, and vegetative cover?                                            YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

6. Has the erosion potential of the site based upon the degree and direction of slope, soil type and existing vegetative cover been adequately addressed for the project proposal? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? _______________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not?  State highway 172 NW and shared driveway.

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

Why or why not?  Residential neighborhood.

9)  Does the project proposal have a reasonable need to be in a shoreland location? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ________________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not?  Design plan applied for.

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

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

12. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  On site well and sewage system to be upgraded.

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

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

14. If the project proposal includes above ground or below ground storage tanks for petroleum or other hazardous material that is subject to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) requirements, has a permit been sought?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

15. Will there be fencing and/or other screening provided to buffer the project proposal from adjacent properties?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

17. If the project proposal will generate additional traffic to or from the site, has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the additional traffic and parking is to be addressed? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? Adequate on-site parking.

If all answers to the Findings of Fact-Criteria are either “Yes” or are “Not Applicable” to the request, the criteria for granting the conditional use permit have been met. The conditional use permit will maintain the goals of safety, health, and general welfare of the public.  

The specific conditions of approval are as follows:

1. The Conditional Use Permit terminates upon sale or transfer of property.
2. The existing sewer system must be upgraded by July 8, 2024.
3. The conditional approval is contingent upon applicant meeting all other requirements as outlined in the submitted application, such as quiet hours, maximum occupancy, etc.
4. Must meet Minnesota Department of Health requirements.

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

March 14, 2023 _____________________________________

Date Ed Arnesen

Chair, County Board

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

Recognition of Mike Hirst

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund informed the board that Resource Conservationist and SWCD member Mike Hirst was the 2023 Larry Kallemeyn Award recipient. This award is voted on by peers and given to an individual that shows significant contributions to research or resource management and outstanding professional achievement in scientific research or resource management.

Rainy River 1W1P MOA & Bylaws

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund gave the board information on the Rainy River Watershed Plan, Memorandum of Agreement and bylaws for their review. This information will be discussed in the upcoming public hearing on April 11, 2023.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to add the Keep it Clean Campaign to the agenda.

Keep It Clean Campaign

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund discussed the Keep it Clean Campaign to keep trash and waste off of the lake and shoreline. Mr. Stromlund informed the board that the SWCD will be writing a letter of support for the campaign and asked the board if they would like to do the same.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to write a letter of support for the Keep it Clean Campaign. 

MIS

Approval to move to Microsoft 365

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of Microsoft 365 using American Rescue Plan funds up to $29,634.00.

BCA Requirements

MIS Director Peder Hovland and Systems Administrator John Butenhoff informed the board that Lake of the Woods County is not in compliance with the BCA policy regarding the need to monitor logs weekly.

Sheriff

Credit Card Increase- Jill Hasbargen-Olson

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the request to raise the credit card limit for Jill Hasbargen-Olson from the standard amount of $1,500.00 to $5,000.

Recess

With no further business before the Board, Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 11:26 a.m.

Attest: March 28, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chairman Ed Arnesen

March 22, 2022

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 8, 2022 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

Call To Order

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

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add Grant Application Substance Youth Disorder, Lost Warrant, Satisfaction of Repayment and Legislative Update. 

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the minutes from March 8,2022.

Social Services

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $6,437.02; Commissioners Warrants $2,332.92; Commissioners Warrants $9,838.96.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $74,411.90; Road & Bridge $22,974.65; County Development $200.00; Solid Waste $44,650.36; EDA $1,820.12.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION 2010-2021

Warrants Approved On 3/22/2022 For Payment 3/25/2022

Vendor Name Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 28,987.25 

CentralSquare Technologies, LLC 2,499.96 

Counties Providing Technology 3,972.00 

GM Construction Inc 23,052.26 

Integris DBA 13,994.79 

Motorola Solutions, Inc 15,206.40 

National Business Furniture, LLC 8,358.56

NetCenter Technologies 2,220.00 

Northern Light Region 4,107.82 

Pemberton Law, P.L.L.P. 3,603.98

Quadient Finance USA Inc. 5,000.00 

Royal Tire Inc 4,826.34

RTVision Inc. 3,000.00 

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50 

49  Payments less than 2000 18,959.17

Final Total: 144,057.03

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: March 4,2022 for $457,551.86; March 9,2022 for $122,854.74; March 16,2022 for $2,103,615.41; March 17,2022 for ($2.00)

Lost Warrant Affidavit
Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Gund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the application and affidavit for lost warrant number 36799 for vendor number 1676 dated September 17, 2021 for $77.69 without furnishing indemnifying bond.  

Lost Warrant Affidavit
Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the application and affidavit for lost warrant number 37166 for vendor number 1644 dated December 17,2021 for $148.50 without furnishing indemnifying bond.  

County TV RFP

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve going out on a RFP for maintenance of county tv. towers.

Rehabilitation Housing Satisfaction

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve County Board Chair Buck Nordlof to sign the Satisfaction of Mortgages for the Rental Rehabilitation Loan Program with Crystal Ferrier.

Lake of the Woods County Fair Board

Request for Donation

JP Sweet and Alan Cauble gave an update on the progress and cost of the Fairground canopy project and plans for next years Centennial Fair. Consensus was made by the board to support the canopy project.

Emergency Management

Approve funds- Mobile Radio for Squad Car

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the pre-budgeted funds from the Motorola grant in the amount of $6,669.50 for a mobile radio in a squad car.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to add approval of additional training for mapping to the agenda.

Approval of Additional Training for Mapping

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the pre-bill request for additional training for mapping through the Motorola grant. 

Public Works

Public Works Director Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects including Bridge 92633, Building Door Replacement, and Drainage Authority JD 22 Erosion Repair.

Lake of the Woods Soil And Water Conservation

2021 County Feedlot Officer (CFO) Annual Report

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the 2021 County Feedlot Officer Annual Report, as presented by Mike Hirst with Lake of the Woods County’s Soil & Water Conservation District and for Chair Buck Nordlof to sign the same.

Human Resources

Permission to Hire

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to hire Cody Nelson for the position of Heavy Equipment Operator at Grade 11, Step 1, $21.68 per hour, Points 265, effective 4/18/ 2022.

Permission to Advertise, Interview & Hire

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously for permission to advertise, interview, and hire Curt Ferrier for the position of Heavy Equipment Operator at Grade 11, Step 3, $22.60 per hour, Points 265, effective in May 2022. 

Legislative Update

Commissioner Ed Arnesen updated the board on various topics that included: Bonding, Tourism Bill, PILT, NWA Forgivable loan, and Representative changes.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 10:00 am. and reconvened at 10:10 am.

Public Works

Robert Peterson Retirement

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

RECOGNITION OF YEARS OF SERVICE

ROBERT PETERSON

RESOLUTION 2022-03-03

WHEREAS: Robert Peterson has served Lake of the Woods County as a Heavy Equipment Operator since June 1,1997;

WHEREAS: Robert will retire from Lake of the Woods County effective March 31, 2022 with more than Twenty-Four years of service;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That Lake of the Woods Board of County Commissioners extends its deepest appreciation to Robert for his dedicated service and wishes him well on his retirement.

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

Carp Swamp Addition

Scott Laudenslager from MN DNR and Jackie Paschke gave a brief recap on discussions from previous meetings and listened to any questions/concerns the board has in reference to the sale of land to Pheasants Forever that would then be donated to the DNR to add to the wildlife management area. Consensus was made by the board to add this to the April 12,2022 meeting. No further action was taken at this time.

Leaving the Meeting

Chair Buck Nordlof left the meeting at 10:40 am.

Opioid Response Program-Behavioral Health Care Support

Grant Application

County Attorney James Austad went over the details of the rural communities opioid support grant. There is a coalition of local services that help with the support of substance abuse that would benefit from this grant to serve the local community.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to support the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program-Behavioral Health Care Support grant application.

RECESS

With no further business before the Board, Vice-Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 10:50 am.

Attest: April 12, 2022

______________________________ _________________________________

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

March 8, 2022

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 8, 2022 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

Call To Order

Vice-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, and Joe Grund. Also present was County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson. Absent: Commissioners: Buck Nordlof and Jon Waibel. 

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add Post Prom Request, NWA Forgivable Loan Update, Stonegarden Grant, and Legislative Update. Remove: Carp Swamp Addition-Scott Laudenslager.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the minutes from February 22,2022.

NWA- Northerly Park

Joe Laurin requested the board approve a resolution to apply for a grant to hire a skilled landscape architect to work on the NorthWest Angle Northerly Park. He is requesting an additional $2,000 from the county to go towards the project in support of the grant. 

Resolution

The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and moved for adoption: 

A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF NWA NORTHERLY PARK

      Resolution No. 2022-03-01

Resolution approving a Greater Minnesota Legacy Grant application to the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for the Northwest Angle Northerly Park project.

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has the right and authority to sponsor a grant funding request to the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission (GMRPTC).  

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has a right and authority to act as Legal Sponsor for the State Grant Application of the NWA Northerly Park and will work with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (“DNR”), in developing a Grant Agreement relating to the funding which may be awarded by the GMRPTC.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That Lake of the Woods County certifies it has read and understands the Office of Grants Management Conflict of Interest Policy 08-01, will maintain an adequate Conflict of Interest Policy and monitor and report any actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest to the GMRPTC and DNR.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County confirms all of the information in its Application and further confirms that it has no expectation of, or entitlement to, reimbursement of costs incurred prior to grant agreement execution date and, if applicable, it has not entered into a written purchase agreement to acquire property described in its Application if grant funds are to be used for the purchase. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County has or will acquire a fee interest ownership or permanent easement over the land described in the Application for regional parks and regional special feature parks as applicable. The applicant has or will acquire a fee interest, permanent or perpetual easement or minimum twenty (20) year lease over the land described in the Application for regional trails or regional special feature parks, as applicable and approved, before the project proceeds.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County agrees that it will comply with all applicable laws, regulations and requirements as stated in the Grant Agreement with the DNR, including dedicating the park property for uses consistent with the grant agreement into perpetuity or for trails, committing to maintain the trails for a period of not less than twenty (20) years, and dedicating all land acquired under the project for uses consistent with the grant agreement into perpetuity.

BE IT FURTHER UNDERSTOOD, that the GMRPTC will confirm at such time that it has made the award of funds authorizing a Grant Agreement to be developed between the DNR and the Applicant.

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

Northerly Park Fund Request

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the request for $2,000 from Lake of the Woods County to the Northerly Park project in support of the grant agreement. 

Social Services

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $23,569.88; Commissioners Warrants $2,630.85; Commissioners Warrants $15,425.57.

Approval of out of state travel for Conferences

Social Services Director Amy Ballard asked the board to approve a request for employees to travel out of state for the upcoming conference. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the request for out of state travel for conferences.

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 $50,515.88; Road & Bridge $266,556.18; County Development $3,978.50; Joint Ditch $14,107.11; Solid Waste $20,661.54; EDA $773.43.

    WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

                Warrants Approved On 3/08/2022 For Payment 3/11/2022

                      Vendor Name Amount

                                                   Esri                                             25,000.00 

                                                   Hoffman, Philipp & Martell, PLLC       3,800.00

                                                   Howard’s Oil Company               6,947.56 

                                                   LOW Highway Dept               3,270.00 

                                                   Mar-Kit Landfill                             12,042.00 

                                                   Naylor Heating & Refrigeration LLC 3,401.36

                                                   NetCenter Technologies               3,221.25

                                                   Roseau County Treasurer               14,107.11 

                                                   Thief River Glass                               2,170.00 

                                                   WIDSETH                                             5,228.50 

                                                   Ziegler, Inc                                             251,467.61 

                                                              47 Payments less than 2000 25,937.25

                                                                          Final Total: 356,592.64

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: February 23, 2022 for $99,114.34; March 2, 2022 for $58,973.02; March 3, 2022 for $3,150.00.

Resolution to Re-Establish Precincts & Polling Places

Resolution

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

A Resolution Re-establishing County Precincts and Polling Places

Resolution 22-03-02

WHEREAS, the legislature of the State of Minnesota has been redistricted; and

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes, Section §204B.14, subd. 3(d) requires that precinct boundaries must be reestablished within 60 days of when the legislature has been redistricted or at least 19 weeks before the state primary election, whichever comes first;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, State of Minnesota hereby re-establishes the boundaries of the voting precincts and polling places as follows:

Precinct 1A (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 1A consists of that portion of Baudette Township that lies East of the Winter Road River and East of County Road 75, south of where it intersects the Winter Road River; North of Krull St; and West of the City of Baudette.

Precinct 2A (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 2A consists of that portion of Gudrid Township that lies outside of the City of Baudette.

Precinct 2C (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 2C consists of the Townships of Boone, Rapid River, Swiftwater, Unorganized 158-30, Keil, and Unorganized 157-30.

Precinct 3A (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 3A consists of the Townships of Victory, Rulien, Walhalla, and that portion of Spooner that lies outside of the City of Baudette.

Precinct 3C (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 3C consists of that portion of McDougald Township that lies South of State Trunk Highway 11, not including the City of Williams.

Precinct 3D (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 3D consists of Potamo Township and the Forest Area.

Precinct 4A (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 4A consists of Wheeler Township.

Precinct 4B (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 4B consists of Wabanica Township and that portion of Baudette Township that lies West of the Winter Road River and West of County Road 75, south of where it intersects the Winter Road River.

Precinct 4C (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 4C consists of that portion of McDougald Township that lies North of State Highway 11.

Precinct 5A (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 5A consists of Myhre, Chilgren, Lakewood, and Prosper Townships.

Precinct 5B (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 5B consists of Zippel Township.

Precinct 5C (Mail Ballot — Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8^th Ave SE, Baudette)

Precinct 5C consists of the Northwest Angle and Islands.

Attached to this resolution, for illustrative purposes, is a map showing said precincts and the location of each polling place.

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

Set Public Hearing- Re-Establishing Commissioner Districts

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to set a public hearing date for re-establishing Commissioner Districts on April 12, 2022 at 10:00 a.m.

Post Prom Party Donation Request

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve a donation for the Post Prom Party in the amount of $200.00.

LOW Senior Citizens Council- Brink Center

Jenny Moorman and Gloriann Fischer came to the board to request additional Covid-19 relief funds to replace a loss in revenue the local Brink Center suffered from the pandemic. They gave an overview of the many services provided to the senior citizens in our community and different fundraisers they are excited to start in the spring.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve funds from the American Rescue Plan to the Brink Center in the amount of $20,000.

Public Works

Amendment to the Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to add the following to the agenda: Ditch Authority, Calcium Chloride, and Permission to advertise, interview and hire two part-time mowers and two part-time technicians. 

Ditch Authority

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to close the regular meeting and open Ditch Authority for discussion.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve funds out of County Ditch 1 for project SAP 039-608-025 in the amount of $41,707.50.

Motion

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

Approval to Accept Bid 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to accept the bid from KGM Contractors for project SAP 039-608-025 in the amount of $623,567.00.

Approval to Accept Bid

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to accept the bid from Gladen Construction for SAP 039-599-001 in the amount of $158,528.00.

Approval to Purchase a Gradation Shaker

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of a mechanical gradation shaker in the amount of $8,398.00.

Calcium Chloride Bids

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the Calcium Chloride bid on the South end from Knife River in the amount of $125,305.00.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the Calcium Chloride bid in the NorthWest Angle from Fort Distributors, LTD in the amount of $34,500.00.

Permission to Advertise, Interview, and Hire

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 two part-time mowers at Grade 7, Step 1, 17.63 per hour, Points 191 and two part-time technicians at Grade 5, Step 1, 15.94 per hour, Points 172. 

Highway updates

Public Works Director Anthony Pirkl discussed estimates for Birch Beach and Sandy Shore roads to be paved and informed the board that the Highway Department was awarded the money to pay for the safe routes project. Safe Routes will build safer roads for getting to the school and for bus use.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 9:58 a.m. and reconvened at 10:07 a.m.

EDA

EDA Director Ryan Zemek gave an update to the board on the NWA forgivable loan fund. Consensus was made to pay back the loan but wait until March 31, 2022 in case there are any legislative changes.

Land & Water

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #22-03CU Lake Area Construction

Land and Water Director Josh Stromlund met with the board and presented a Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #22-03CU by Lake Area Construction: SW1/4 NW1/4, Section Twenty-Five (25), Township One-Hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West- Parcel ID# 22.25.23.000. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance, to allow the applicant extractive and commercial use of the property consisting of aggregate mining in a Rural Residential Zoning District (R2).

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following Findings of Fact/Conditional Use Permit #22-03CU for Lake Area Construction to allow the extractive and commercial use of the property consisting of aggregate mining in a Rural Residential Zoning District (R2).

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Lake Area Construction Date:  March 8, 2022

Location/Legal Description:  SW1/4 NW1/4, Section Twenty-five (25), Township One-hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West – Parcel ID# 22.25.23.000 

Project Proposal:  To allow applicant extractive and commercial use of the property consisting of aggregate mining in a Rural Residential Zoning District (R2).

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

Why or why not?  The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners are clear about the values important to the county as it develops an approach to manage its land base. While those values include a respect for the environment and a desire to maintain the environmental quality that now exists, they also include a desire for local control over the issues that affect the county’s land. The values important to Lake of the Woods County is as follows:

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

Within the context of its values and philosophy, Lake of the Woods County has developed a series of goals to guide the development of its land use plan. The goals pertinent to this request is as follows:

• Enhance the economic opportunities available for individuals and businesses in the county in ways that are compatible with long term environmental quality.
• Maintain the tax base of the county so quality services can be provided.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? The site is buffered with natural vegetation and located over a quarter mile from a residence.

3. Is the project proposal consistent with the goal of preventing and controlling water pollution, including sedimentation and nutrient loading?                        YES (X) NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? The site is not within a shoreland area and proposed use is contained within the boundaries of the site.

4. Will the project proposal not adversely affect the site’s existing topography, drainage features, and vegetative cover?                                            YES (  )  NO (X)  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  The proposed extractive use will adversely affect the site’s existing topography and vegetative cover. However, the site’s location, vegetative buffer, and the limited amount of resources to be extracted offset the alterations proposed.

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

Why or why not? The site’s location is not within a floodplain and/or floodway.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  The site’s erosion potential is minimal due to the existing vegetative buffer and any sediment transport is fully contained within the boundaries of the property.

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

Why or why not?  Township Road 96 is located on west side of property.

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

Why or why not?  The property is isolated and a natural vegetative buffer is intact.

9. Does the project proposal have a reasonable need to be in a shoreland location?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? The property location is not within a shoreland area.

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

Why or why not? There will be no liquid waste generated from this project proposal.

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

Why or why not? The property location is not within a shoreland area.

12. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X) Why or why not? The project proposal doesn’t include a water supply or sewage treatment systems.

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

Why or why not? The project proposal will not generate additional watercraft.

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

Why or why not? No storage tanks are associated with this project proposal.

15. Will there be fencing and/or other screening provided to buffer the project proposal from adjacent properties? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  A natural vegetative buffer is intact.

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

Why or why not? No signs are associated with the project proposal.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? The amount of additional traffic would be considered normal as to the location of the proposed site. Parking on the site is not an issue as there is more than enough space to accommodate the equipment used to extract and haul the material.

The specific conditions of approval are as follows:  _____________________________________________

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

March 8, 2022 _____________________________________

Date James Nordlof

        Chair, County Board

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

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #22-04 Weston Johnson

Land and Water Director Josh Stromlund met with the board and presented a Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #22-04CU by Weston Johnson: NE ¼ SW 1/4 – Parcel ID #28.16.31.000, N ½ NW 1/4, Less Deeded, S ½ NW ¼- Parcel ID #28.16.21.000, and W ½ NE ¼- Parcel ID #28.16.12.000 in Section Sixteen (16), Township One Hundred-Sixty (160 North, Range Thirty-Three (33) West. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance, to allow the applicant extractive and commercial use of the property consisting of aggregate mining, washing, and bituminous material, in a Rural Residential Zoning District (R2).

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following Findings of Fact/Conditional Use Permit #22-04CU for Weston Johnson to allow extractive and commercial use of the property consisting of aggregate mining, washing, and bituminous material, in a Rural Residential Zoning District (R2). 

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Weston Johnson Date:  March 8, 2022

Location/Legal Description:  NE¼SW¼ -Parcel ID# 28.16.31.000, N½NW¼, Less Deeded, S½ NW¼ – Parcel ID# 28.16.21.000, and W½ NE¼ – Parcel ID# 28.16.12.000 in Section Sixteen (16), Township One Hundred-Sixty (160) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West.

Project Proposal:  To allow applicant extractive and commercial use of the property consisting of aggregate mining, washing, and bituminous material, in a Rural Residential Zoning District (R2).

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

Why or why not?  The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners are clear about the values important to the county as it develops an approach to manage its land base. While those values include a respect for the environment and a desire to maintain the environmental quality that now exists, they also include a desire for local control over the issues that affect the county’s land. The values important to Lake of the Woods County is as follows:

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

Within the context of its values and philosophy, Lake of the Woods County has developed a series of goals to guide the development of its land use plan. The goals pertinent to this request is as follows:

• Enhance the economic opportunities available for individuals and businesses in the county in ways that are compatible with long term environmental quality.
• Maintain the tax base of the county so quality services can be provided.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? The site is buffered with natural vegetation along County Road 14 and along the northern property line. The proposed wash plant is to recirculate within the boundaries of the site and not discharge to a natural drainageway. The proposed bituminous plant would be general down wind of the residence located north of the property.

3. Is the project proposal consistent with the goal of preventing and controlling water pollution, including sedimentation and nutrient loading?                        YES (X) NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? The site is not within a shoreland area and proposed use is contained within the boundaries of the site. The proposed wash plant is to recirculate within the boundaries of the site and not discharge to a natural drainageway.

4. Will the project proposal not adversely affect the site’s existing topography, drainage features, and vegetative cover?                                            YES (  )  NO (X)  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  The proposed extractive use will adversely affect the site’s existing topography and vegetative cover. However, the site’s location, vegetative buffer, and the limited amount of resources to be extracted offset the alterations proposed.

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

Why or why not? The site’s location is not within a floodplain and/or floodway.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  The site’s erosion potential is minimal due to the existing vegetative buffer and any sediment transport is fully contained within the boundaries of the property. The proposed wash plant is to recirculate within the boundaries of the site and not discharge to a natural drainageway.

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

Why or why not?  The access to and from the site is off of County Road 65 and then a private roadway.

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

Why or why not?  The property location is isolated, surrounded by farmland and pasture, and a natural vegetative buffer is intact.

9. Does the project proposal have a reasonable need to be in a shoreland location?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? The property location is not within a shoreland area.

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

Why or why not? There will be no liquid waste generated from this project proposal.

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

Why or why not? The property location is not within a shoreland area.

12. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X) Why or why not? The project proposal doesn’t include a water supply or sewage treatment systems.

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

Why or why not? The project proposal will not generate additional watercraft.

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

Why or why not? No storage tanks are associated with this project proposal.

15. Will there be fencing and/or other screening provided to buffer the project proposal from adjacent properties? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  A natural vegetative buffer is intact.

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

Why or why not? No signs are associated with the project proposal.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? The amount of additional traffic would be considered normal as to the location of the proposed site. Parking on the site is not an issue as there is more than enough space to accommodate the equipment used to extract and haul the material.

The specific conditions of approval are as follows:  _____________________________________________

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

March 8, 2022 _____________________________________

Date James Nordlof

        Chair, County Board

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

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #22-05 Olson Construction, LLC

Land and Water Director Josh Stromlund met with the board and presented a Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #22-05CU by Olson Construction, LLC: NW ¼ NW ¼, Less the East 165.5’ in Section Twenty-Three (23), Township One Hundred-Sixty (160) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance, to allow the applicant extractive and commercial use of the property consisting of aggregate mining, washing, and bituminous material, in a Rural Residential Zoning District (R2).

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following Findings of Fact/Conditional Use Permit #22-05CU for Olson

Construction, LLC. to allow extractive and commercial use of the property consisting of aggregate mining, washing, and bituminous material, in a Rural Residential Zoning District (R2). 

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Olson Construction, LLC Date:  March 8, 2022

Location/Legal Description:  NW¼NW¼, Less the East 165.5’ in Section Twenty-three (23), Township One Hundred Sixty (160) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West

Project Proposal:  To allow applicant extractive and commercial use of the property consisting of aggregate mining, washing, and bituminous material, in a Rural Residential Zoning District (R2).

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

Why or why not?  The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners are clear about the values important to the county as it develops an approach to manage its land base. While those values include a respect for the environment and a desire to maintain the environmental quality that now exists, they also include a desire for local control over the issues that affect the county’s land. The values important to Lake of the Woods County is as follows:

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

Within the context of its values and philosophy, Lake of the Woods County has developed a series of goals to guide the development of its land use plan. The goals pertinent to this request is as follows:

• Enhance the economic opportunities available for individuals and businesses in the county in ways that are compatible with long term environmental quality.
• Maintain the tax base of the county so quality services can be provided.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? The site is buffered with a 6-8 foot berm along County Road 3 and 181. The proposed wash plant is to recirculate within the boundaries of the site and not discharge to a natural drainageway. The proposed bituminous plant would be general down wind of the residence located north and northeast of the property.

3. Is the project proposal consistent with the goal of preventing and controlling water pollution, including sedimentation and nutrient loading?                        YES (X) NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? The site is not within a shoreland area and proposed use is contained within the boundaries of the site due to the berms present. The proposed wash plant is to recirculate within the boundaries of the site and not discharge to a natural drainageway.

4. Will the project proposal not adversely affect the site’s existing topography, drainage features, and vegetative cover?                                            YES (  )  NO (X)  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  The proposed extractive use will adversely affect the site’s existing topography and vegetative cover. However, the site’s location, berm and vegetative buffer, and the limited amount of resources to be extracted offset the alterations proposed.

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

Why or why not? The site’s location is not within a floodplain and/or floodway.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  The site’s erosion potential is minimal due to the existing berms and vegetative buffer. Any sediment transport is fully contained within the boundaries of the property. The proposed wash plant is to recirculate within the boundaries of the site and not discharge to any drainageway.

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

Why or why not?  The access to and from the site is off of County Road 3 or 181.

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

Why or why not?  The property location is in an area of forestland, pasture, farmland and rural residences. The rural residences have natural vegetative buffer/screening from the proposed project site.

9. Does the project proposal have a reasonable need to be in a shoreland location?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? The property location is not within a shoreland area.

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

Why or why not? There will be no liquid waste generated from this project proposal.

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

Why or why not? The property location is not within a shoreland area.

12. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems?

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X) Why or why not? The project proposal doesn’t include a water supply or sewage treatment systems.

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

Why or why not? The project proposal will not generate additional watercraft.

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

Why or why not? No storage tanks are associated with this project proposal.

15. Will there be fencing and/or other screening provided to buffer the project proposal from adjacent properties? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  A berm and natural vegetation buffer screens adjacent neighboring property from the project site.

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

Why or why not? No signs are associated with the project proposal.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? The amount of additional traffic would be considered normal as to the location of the proposed site. Parking on the site is not an issue as there is more than enough space to accommodate the equipment used to extract and haul the material.

The specific conditions of approval are as follows:  _____________________________________________

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

March 8, 2022 _____________________________________

Date James Nordlof

        Chair, County Board

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

Maintenance

Boiler Repair

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the repair of the boiler up to $9,000.

Sheriff

Stonegarden Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the 2020 Stonegarden Grant Contract Agreement and for Vice-Chair Ed Arnesen and Sheriff Gary Fish to sign the same.

Legislative Update

Commissioner Ed Arnesen gave an update from the AMC Conference he attended. Topics included: PILT Funds, Tourism Bureau legislation, and Lobby seeking bonding money for Law Enforcement.

Attorney Client Privilege- Closed Session

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting at 10:52 a.m. and open the closed session pursuant to MN Statute 13D.03B Attorney Client Privilege. 

The following were present: Commissioners: Joe Grund, Cody Hasbargen, Ed Arnesen, County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, and Sheriff Gary Fish.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the closed session at 12:35 p.m. and reopen the regular meeting.

RECESS

With no further business before the Board, Vice-Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 12:36.

Attest: March 8, 2022

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Vice-Chair Ed Arnesen

Commissioner Proceedings

March  23, 2021

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 23, 2021 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room. 

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the agenda with the following additions: Survey for Land Sale.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the official and summarized minutes of March 9, 2021.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrant’s $10,147.15; Commissioners Warrant’s $2,187.49; Commissioners Warrant’s $12,418.99.

AUDITOR/TREASURER

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $29,998.04; Road & Bridge $36,687.28; County Development $19,900; Solid Waste $24,418.99; EDA, $8,403.07. 

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 3/23/2021 For Payment 3/26/2021

Vendor Name Amount

Benco Equipment 4,545.00

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 6,296.07

Counties Providing Technology 3,860.00

Farmers Union Oil Co. 3,477.35

Interstate Billing Service Inc 18,500.00

Lake Area Construction Inc 19,700.00

Mar-Kit Landfill 13,858.00

Mn/State Of 14,487.75

Powerplan 5,131.40

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

Warroad/City Of 7,583.33

31 Payments less than 2000     15,699.98

                                     Final Total: 119,407.38

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: March 10, 2021 for $54,224.97; March 17, 2021 for $1,502,977.91.

Wikstrom Easement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve two Right-Of-Way-Easements, for installing fiber optic cable, to Wikstrom Telephone Company Incorporated, as presented, and for Chair Joe Grund to sign the same.

Post Prom Party Donation Request

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve a $200 donation to Post Prom.

SHERIFF

TZD Grant Agreement

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call the following:

RESOLUTION 

AUTHORIZING PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT 

For

2021 Speed and Aggressive Driving Enforcement Grant Program

RESOLUTION NO. 21-03-02

WHEREAS; Lake of the Woods County will enter into a grant agreement with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for traffic safety enforcement projects during the period of February 2, 2021 – September 30, 2021.

BE IT RESOLVED; Lake of the Woods County Board Chair is hereby authorized to execute such agreements and amendments as are necessary to implement the project on behalf of Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office, and to be fiscal agent and administer the grant.

PUBLIC WORKS

Highway

Permission to interview and hire part-time summer workers

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the advertising, interviewing and hiring of up to five part-time summer workers.

Northwest Angle Gravel Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve a gravel contract with Border Ridge Trucking Inc. at $99,999.

Letter of Support for Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve a letter of support for a Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) Grant, to conduct a feasibility study on human generated sludge in the lake, and for Chair Joe Grund to sign the same.

Allstates Reclaiming Contract for CR 73, 74, 75

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve a contract with Allstates Pavement Recycling & Stabilization Inc. in the amount of $30,573.03 for CR 73, 74 and 75.

DNR
Area Wildlife Presentation
MN DNR Area Wildlife Managers, Scott Laudenslager and Gretchen Mehmel, provided an update to the Board.  Laudenslager shared information on the most recent deer and bear harvests.  Mehmel presented information on wildlife habitat management efforts.

SURVEY FOR LAND SALE
Chad Conner, Land Surveyor, provided an update on the land surveying schedule.  Possible dates for the land sale were also discussed.

RECESS
With no further business before the Board, Chair Joe Grund called the meeting to recess at 11:04 a.m.

Attest: April 13, 2021

_________________________________ _________________________________

Deputy Auditor/Treasurer, Jaime Boretski-LaValla Chair of the Board, Joe Grund 

Commissioner Proceedings

March 16^th, 2021

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in Special Session on Tuesday, March 16^th, 2021 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioner’s Room. 

CALL TO ORDER

Chairman Joe Grund called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. with the following members present:  Commissioners: Joe Grund, Cody Hasbargen, Ed Arnesen, Buck Nordlof, and Jon Waibel. Also present: Human Resource Director, Savanna Slick 

NON-ELECTED DEPARTMENT HEAD EVALUATIONS

County Engineer, Anthony Pirkl met with the board for a performance evaluation.  Anthony chose to have his review open.  County Engineer, Anthony Pirkl, was evaluated and received a favorable review. 

County Assessor, Mary Jo Otten met with the board for a performance evaluation.  Mary Jo chose to have her review open.  County Assessor, Mary Jo Otten, was evaluated and received a favorable review. 

Land & Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board for a performance evaluation.  Josh chose to have his review open.  Land & Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund, was evaluated and received a favorable review.  

MIS Director, Peder Hovland met with the board for a performance evaluation.  Peder chose to have his review open.  MIS Director, Peder Hovland, was evaluated and received a favorable review.  

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard met with the board for a performance evaluation.  Amy chose to have her review open.  Social Services Director, Amy Ballard, was evaluated and received a favorable review. 

ELECTED DEPARTMENT HEAD UPDATES

County Recorder, Sue Ney presented the board with updates from the Lake of the Woods County Recorder’s Office. 

County Sheriff, Gary Fish presented the board with updates from the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office.  

RECESS

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

Attest: April 13, 2021

_________________________________ _________________________________

Human Resource Director, Savanna Slick Chair of the Board, Joe Grund