Commissioner Proceedings

October 14, 2008

The Lake of the Woods County Board met in regular session on Tuesday, October 14, 2008, in the Commissioners’ Room in the Lake of the Woods County Government Center.

CALL TO ORDER

Chairman Bredeson called the meeting to order at 8:45 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance with the following members present:  Commissioners Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel, Arnesen, Bredeson and Moorman. Also present were: County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor, Janet Rudd, Tom Hanson, George Swentik, John Oren and Penny Mio Hirst.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda with the following additions:  Request to sell squad cars, Potato Day and DNR Peatlands Committee and remove approval of minutes from August 18, 2008. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

COUNTY TREASURER, MARK HALL AND WELLS FARGO COMMUNITY BANKING PRESIDENT, TIM HENDRICKSON

County Treasurer Mark Hall and Community Banking President, Tim Hendrickson met with the board to discuss the security of the counties “Sweep Account”. Tim stated that the funds are invested with Ginnie Mae and the funds are collateralized at 100% at all times. The Board requested that an agreement between Wells Fargo and Lake of the Woods County be drafted and to include Minnesota statutory language in regards to investments be included in the agreement.

SOCIAL SERVICES DIRECTOR, NANCY WENDLER

Social Services Director Nancy Wendler met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the claims against the county as follows:

Commissioners’ Warrants       $ 40,323.62

Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

COUNTY AUDITOR, JOHN W. HOSCHEID

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and requested approval of claims.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                                Revenue              $120,738.55

                                                Road & Bridge   $  77,103.13

                                                Co. Develop.       $    3,827.43

                                                Solid Waste         $   31,980.40

                                                                            $ 233,649.51

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

WARRANTS APPROVED ON 10/14/2008 FOR PAYMENT 10/17/2008

     AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME                                                     AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME

        5460.00 BRIAN ACHEN                                                           454.41 AMERI PRIDE LINEN & APPAREL SE

        1300.00 AMERICAN SOLUTIONS FOR BUSINES                1394.13 ANDERSON POWER AND EQUIPMENT

          314.00 JERRY ANDERSON                                                  1279.82 ANDY’S GARAGE, INC.

        5378.03 ED ARNESEN                                                         33390.00 ARROWHEAD LIBRARY SYSTEM

          365.54 AUTO VALUE BAUDETTE                                       380.31 BAUDETTE REGION

        1896.77 BAUERS COMMUNICATIONS & SECURI                724.85 TODD BECKEL

          441.59 WAYNE BENDICKSON                                              470.40 BEST WESTERN KELLY INN STCLOUD

          341.78 CANON FINANCIAL SERVICES                            10398.22 CENEX CO-OP SERVICES, INC.

        4245.62 CPS TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS                              425.90 CRAGUN’S CONFERENCE & GOLF RES

          389.64 DIRECT SAFETY COMPANY                                    323.31 DODDS LUMBER

        3018.82 DYNAMIC IMAGING SYSTEMS, INC                     6900.00 EARTHWORKS CONTRACTING INC

        2277.55 ELECTION SYSTEMS & SOFTWARE, I                    859.26 FARMERS UNION OIL CO.

        1045.00 HELGESON FUNERAL CHAPEL                             1993.51 HERC-U-LIFT, INC

        4019.48 HOWARD’S OIL COMPANY                                      351.44 INSIGHT PUBLIC SECTOR

      17366.32 JOHNSTON FARGO CULVERT INC                          474.50 KNIFE RIVER MATERIALS

          579.13 LAKE ROAD DIESEL INC                                         300.00 LAVALLA SAND & GRAVEL INC

          832.07 LOW FOODS                                                             7530.04 LOW HIGHWAY DEPT

          600.00 LOW MASTER GARDENER                                   10227.15 MAR-KIT LANDFILL

          380.00 MIDWEST MONITORING & SURVEILLA                650.00 MN ASSN OF COUNTIES

        4956.42 MN COUNTIES COMPUTER CO-OP                      11150.00 MN MUNICIPAL UTILITIES ASSOC

      19540.13 MN STATE DEPT-CORRECTION                              442.45 JEROME MOLINE

          764.50 KENNETH MOORMAN                                            5428.22 LAW MOREN

      10788.00 MSOP-MN SEX OFFENDER PRGRM-462                  995.56 NOBLE THRIFTY WHITE

        2405.34 THE NORTHERN LIGHT                                         1917.66 NORTHERN OVERHEAD DOOR CO

        3452.54 NORTHWEST ANGLE&ISLAND FREIGHT              415.45 OFFICE DEPOT

          423.91 OLSEN CHAIN AND CABLE INC                              304.79 ELIZABETH PETERSON

          405.39 DENA PIEPER                                                            401.59 QUILL CORPORATION

        2533.02 R & Q TRUCKING, INC                                            1528.00 RINKE-NOONAN

          438.75 RODERICK RONE JR                                                  520.80 RUTTGER’S BAY LAKE LODGE

        1277.00 SIMPLEX                                                                  1411.08 STRATA CORP, INC

        2751.39 SYNERGY GRAPHICS, INC                                   10664.25 TRAFFIC MARKING SERVICE, INC.

          643.82 TRUE VALUE                                                           1789.43 UNIVERSITY OF MN

          691.52 US FOOD SERVICE                                                  2640.00 VOYAGEURS COMTRONICS, INC

          994.30 WEST GROUP                                                           1343.33 WIDSETH SMITH NOLTING&ASST INC

        5061.89 WOODY’S SERVICE

58 PAYMENTS LESS THAN  $300       6,790.39

FINAL TOTAL    $233,649.51

Further moved to authorize the payment of auditor warrants as follows:

                                                September 24, 2008    $  21,113.99

                                                September 29, 2008    $111,443.82

                                                September 30, 2008    $    (957.34)

                                                September 30, 2008    $  12,598.59

                                                October 8, 2008          $  68,828.71

                                                October 9, 2008          $  50,678.69

Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

John W. Hoscheid requested approval for lawful gambling for the Northwest Minnesota Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #8 and for the Northwest Angle Edgeriders.

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the application for lawful gambling for Northwest Minnesota Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #8 for a raffle, which will be held at Sportsman’s Lodge on February 23, 2009.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the lawful gambling permit for the Northwest Angle Edge Riders to conduct a raffle on March 14, 2009 at Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge and authorize County Auditor to sign.  Seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

John W. Hoscheid presented a schedule for County Board members to attend a training course for County Board of Appeal and Equalization that is required by law.  The Commissioners’ stated that they will attend one of the courses.

COUNTY SHERIFF, DALLAS BLOCK

County Sheriff, Dallas Block met with the board and updated them on the Lake of the Woods Reverse Phone System.  Dallas stated that the company will be coming next week to set the system up at no additional cost and if it still does not function correctly that they will refund the county.

Dallas Block requested approval to sell two squad cars and one county owned car.

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to authorize County Sheriff, Dallas Block to sell the following county owned vehicles:

1. 1996 Pontiac VIN NO. 1G2NE12T9TM531641
2. 2003 Ford VIN NO. 2FAHP71W33X167992
3. 1997 FORD VIN NO. 2FALP71W9VX109415

Seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Dallas presented several pictures of the Williams Community Center showing the poor condition of the building.

WATERS OF THE DANCING SKY SCENIC BYWAY, TOURISM BUREAU DIRECTOR DENELLE CAUBLE

Tourism Bureau Director, Denelle Cauble met with the board to discuss the Waters of the Dancing Sky Scenic Byway.  She informed the board that the “Waters of the Dancing Sky Scenic Byway” is the third (3rd) largest Byway in the State.  The board discussed Mark Anderson (MN/DOT) recommendations for “GAPS”.  The board concurred that they will keep the original “GAPS” that were designated back in 1997.

 The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Todd Beckel and moved for adoption:

Resolution No. 08-10-01

Supporting the Designation of State Highway 11 as a Minnesota Scenic Byway and Minnesota Department of Transportation  (MN/DOT) Enforcement of Laws Pertaining to State Scenic Byways on Federal Aid Primary Routes

WHEREAS, the State Highway 11 “Waters of the Dancing Sky” within Lake of the Woods County is designated as a state scenic byway; and

WHEREAS, MN/DOT is required by federal law to not allow new off-premises advertising signs along Federal Aid Primary routes on designated scenic byways; and

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County receives benefits from tourism and is eligible for federal funding for projects along designated scenic byways;

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County supports the designation of the State Highway 11 “Waters of the Dancing Sky,” within Lake of the Woods County, as a Minnesota Scenic Byway, with the following exceptions (GAPS):

1. ½ mile west of Roosevelt to ½ mile east of Roosevelt.
2. ½ mile west of Williams to ½ mile east of Williams.
3. 1 mile west of Baudette to CR 35 east of Baudette.
4. 300 feet E of intersection of Hwy 11 and 50^th Ave NW to 54th Ave NW in Graceton.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County also supports MN/DOT enforcement of federal and state laws pertaining to the designation, including the prohibition of new off-premises advertising signs along state scenic byways on Federal Aid Primary routes.

Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

COUNTY AUDITOR, JOHN W. HOSCHEID

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval for a Veterans Service Office Operational Improvement Grant.

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to sign the Lake of the Woods County Veterans Service Office Operational Improvement Grant in the amount of $1,400.00 for the state fiscal year 2009.  Seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

John W. Hoscheid presented proposal for lease from Tony Dorn Inc. for a copy machine for the Lake of the Woods Extension Office.  The consensus of the board was that they could use the main copier in the workroom.

John W. Hoscheid requested approval to enter into a Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) with Minnesota Secretary of State, which is required by the Department of Administration for reimbursement for the 2008 primary election recount.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to sign the Minnesota Secretary of State’s JPA effective September 16, 2008 and expiring October 30, 2008. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

The meeting was called to recess at 10:20 a.m. and reconvened at 10:26 a.m. as follows:

MOTOR POOL

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid presented the Minnesota State Contract for a 2009 Chevrolet Impala Model 1 LS in the amount of $16,507.00.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to purchase the 2009 Chevrolet Impala Model 1 LS from Car/Truck City in the amount of $16,507.00 not including registration or taxes.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

DEPOT PRESERVATION ALLIANCE, REPRESENTATIVE JOANNE KELLNER

Representative, Joanne Kellner met with the board requesting a letter of support from the County Board for the preservation and adaptive reuse of the Baudette Depot.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize the Chairman to sign the letter (s) of support for the MHS grant for the preservation and adaptive reuse of the Baudette Depot.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

WILLIAMS YOUTH RECREATION ASSOCIATION, REPRESENTATIVE APRIL STAVIG

April Stavig met with the board requesting funding for the Potato Day Celebration.  The board informed April that the county levies money for this celebration already.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to re-designate the $500.00 levied money that was designated to the City of Williams to the Williams Youth Recreation Association, a 501.3c non-profit organization for the use of the Potato Day Celebration. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

PEATLAND COMMITTEE APPOINTMENT

Commissioner Todd Beckel shared a letter from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources requesting Commissioner Todd Beckel to participate as a planner for a pilot project which will create plans for two Peatland Scientific and Natural Areas.  The board discussed the date of the Peatland forum, which falls on the same day of a regular board meeting.

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to appoint Commissioner Todd Beckel to the Peatland Committee meeting, Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

BUSINESS SUBSIDY POLICY CRITERIA, PUBLIC HEARING

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the regular meeting at 11:00 a.m. as advertised and open the Public Hearing for comments on the Business Subsidy Policy Criteria.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Chairman Bredeson read out loud the two changes that were made in the policy and read out loud a letter from Ronald Zimney.  Commissioner Arnesen stated that he is in support of the policy but would have liked to see a limit of $75,000.00.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the Public Hearing for Business Subsidy Policy Criteria and open the regular meeting at 11:05 .am.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to accept the revised Business Subsidy Policy Criteria as presented at the Public Hearing and authorize Chairman Bredeson and County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to sign the revised policy.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR, BRUCE HASBARGEN

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board and presented two quotes for a Utility Tractor as follows:

1. Holte Implement:        John Deere 6330 Tractor         $41,296.27
2. Titan Machinery :        Case III JX80 Tractor             $24,150.00

Bruce recommended purchasing the John Deere 6330 Tractor.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize the Public Works Director to purchase a John Deere 6330 Tractor for the Public Works Department from Holte Implement in the amount of $41,296.27.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the vote carried as follows:  Voting for:  Commissioner Arnesen, Patty Beckel and Moorman.  Voting against: Commissioners Todd Beckel and Bredeson.

CLOSED SESSION- PURSUANT TO MN § 13D.03 LABOR NEGOTIATIONS

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the regular meeting at 11:36 a.m. per MN Stat. §13D.03.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

The following were present in closed session:  Commissioners Arnesen, Bredeson, Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel and Moorman.  Also present was Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the closed session and open the regular session at 12:50 p.m.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

The meeting was called to recess at 12:50 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 1:05 p.m. as follows:

CON-CON BUDGET

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to contribute the following Con-Con funds to the following organizations, payable 2009:

Lake of the Woods County Development Year 2009
Baudette Arena Assoc-	15,000.00
Williams Arena Assoc-	5,000.00
City of Baudette-Timbermill Park	20,000.00
Crises Resource Center	2,500.00
Depot Preservation-Historic Depot/Bldg	1,000.00
LOW Humane Society-	1,000.00
MN Small Business Development  Center	500.00
Pequana Playhouse	500.00
School District-390-Enrichment Program	2,500.00
University of MN Extension-	2,000.00
Williams Public Library	500.00
Joint Powers Natural Resources Board	2,000.00
LOW Sr Fishing (LOW Chapter)	1,500.00
Rinke-Noonan-Retainer-	2,400.00
St Louis County Aud-   (NCLUCB)	5,000.00
Take A Kid Fishing	600.00
Widseth Smith Nolting-	16,000.00

Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR, BRUCE HASBARGEN

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board requesting authorization to move to the next phase for the Township Road Inventory.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize Public Works Director to move to the next phase of the Township Road Inventory and to set Public Informational Meetings regarding the Township Road Inventory for November 18, 2008 and January 8, 2009 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.  The informational meeting will be held at the Government Center in Baudette in the Commissioners’ Room. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Bruce Hasbargen met with the board requesting approval for the Solid Waste Special Assessment fee.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to adopt the Solid Waste Special Assessment Schedules as presented by the Solid Waste Committee with the following changes:

1. Eliminate farmers that own less than 400 acres.
2. Eliminate assessment on seasonal recreational properties owned by county residents.

Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR, WADE JOHANNESEN AND COUNTY ASSESSOR, WAYNE BENDICKSON

Human Resources Director, Wade Johannesen discussed the contracting position of an Assistant Assessor.  He explained that the contractor would only be able to do the assessing of properties and nothing else in the office. County Assessor, Wayne Bendickson informed the board that the Mobile Home assessing will be done at the same time as other assessing.  Wade informed the board that the personnel committee recommends to go with the hiring of an Assistant Assessor versus having a contractor. The personnel committee made no changes in the grade of this position and updated the job description as presented.  The board requested that ATV usage be added to the job description.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the Assistant Assessor’s job description with the change of adding ATV usage.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize Human Resources Director, Wade Johannesen and County Assessor, Wayne Bendickson to advertise for a RFP for a part-time Assistant Assessor and advertise for a full-time Assistant Assessor position.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

INTERIM COUNTY ATTORNEY, MICHELLE MOREN AND COUNTY ASSESSOR WAYNE BENDICKSON

Interim County Attorney, Michelle Moren and County Assessor Wayne Bendickson met with the board to discuss the assessment agreement for providing assessment services for the City of Baudette. 

The Commissioners requested that Michelle proceed with the 2008 Assessment Agreement with the City of Baudette.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize Chairman Bredeson, County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and Interim County Attorney, Michelle Moren to sign the 2008 Assessment Agreement with the City of Baudette.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

The board discussed the Williams Community Center with Interim County Attorney, Michelle Moren and City of Williams Mayor, Nancy Jewell. The board requested that Nancy get an abstract to find out the legal ownership, the value of the lot and get a quote on how much an Attorney would cost to start the process of condemnation.  Michelle will be the contact person for the board on the Williams Community Center.

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR, BRUCE HASBARGEN

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board to discuss the certification training for Construction Inspections.  He requested that four staff members should be trained for this certification. He estimates the cost would be around $400.00 per person for training and the cost of mileage and hotels.  The consensus of the board was to train up to four staff members with only two attending at one time.

Bruce reported the Ditch 1 Committee findings.  He stated that the committee will be reviewing this list and will prioritize the projects.

Bruce presented the only quote that was received for the removal or demolition of the small garage.

David and Bruce Erickson was the only bid received in the amount of $100.00.

The board discussed the Capital Outlay for the Road and Bridge fund and also discussed the consent agenda item from the highway department.  Bruce explained the travel was with the Minnesota Local Road Research Board (LRRB) that he was appointed to and all cost of travel, room and meals were covered by the LRRB.

Bruce informed the board that he may purchase a used snowplow instead of the new snowplow that was approved at the September 23, 2008 meeting. Bruce also informed the board that he is looking into some possibilities of utilizing the fuel farm at the school and the possibility of setting one up for the county.

OTHER TOPICS DISCUSSED WITH NO ACTION; CORRESPONDENCE

The board discussed the transfer of the Maxi Van and correspondence was acknowledged.

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the consent agenda as follows: Josh Stromlund to Minneapolis for Mediation Meeting on October 7, 2008; Bruce Hasbargen to Washington, D.C. for Transportation Research Board’s 88^th Annual Meeting on January 11-15, 2009.

Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

COUNTY AUDITOR, JOHN W. HOSCHEID

Due to the time of day, the 3^rd quarter financial report was tabled to the October 28, 2008 board meeting.

CLOSED SESSION-PURSUANT TO MN § 13D.03 LABOR NEGOTIATIONS

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the regular session at 4:43 p.m. pursuant MN § 13d.03 for union negotiations.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

The following were present in the closed session:  Commissioners Arnesen, Bredeson, Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel and Moorman. 

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to close the closed session at 5:12 p.m. and open the regular session.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

With no further business before the board, Chairman Bredeson called the meeting to recess at 5:12 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved:       October 28, 2008

_____________________________                                                  ____________________________

John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor                                                   Kim Bredeson, Chairman

Commissioner Proceedings

October 28, 2008

The Lake of the Woods County Board met in regular session on Tuesday, October 28, 2008, in the Commissioners’ Room in the Lake of the Woods County Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Bredeson called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance with the following members present:  Commissioners Patty Beckel, Arnesen, Bredeson and Moorman. Absent was Commissioner Todd Beckel who was away on county business.  Also present were: County Auditor, John W Hoscheid; Human Resources Director, Wade Johannesen; Tom Hanson and Gloriann Fischer.

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the agenda.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Shelley Pepera to St. Paul on October 21-23 for Case Management and Financial Basics and travel on November 6^th to St. Paul for Interstate Basics and John W Hoscheid to St. Paul on October 26-27 for Manatron User Group. Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the commissioner minutes of October 14, 2008.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the claims against the county as follows:

Commissioners’ Warrants       $ 15,108.02

Commissioners’ Warrants      $ 12,308.32

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

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler reviewed the Riverview Health / Glenmore 2009 Contract –CD Outpatient Services and the Riverview Health / Glenmore 2009 Contract — Host County Contract.

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the contract between Riverview Health / Glenmore Recovery Center and Lake of the Woods County Social Services for 2009, for the provision of chemical dependency outpatient treatment, aftercare, public education, and training for agency staff; and to authorize Chairman Bredesen and Lake of the Woods County Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler, to sign the same. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried. 

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the Host County Contract between Riverview Health / Glenmore Recovery Center and Lake of the Woods County Social Services for 2009, for the provision of chemical dependency outpatient treatment services to residents from other counties; and to authorize Chairman Bredesen and Lake of the Woods County Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler, to sign the same. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried. 

County Treasurer, Mark E Hall

County Treasurer, Mark E Hall met with the board to discuss the Lake of the Woods County Investment Policy, which is currently under review by the Interim County Attorney, Michelle Moren.  Mark updated the board on the third quarter revenue interest and the projected fourth quarter interest.

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and requested approval of claims.

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                                Revenue              $ 22,661.16

                                                Road & Bridge   $ 14,288.41

                                                Solid Waste         $      558.02

                                                                            $ 37,507.59

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

WARRANTS APPROVED ON 10/28/2008 FOR PAYMENT 10/31/2008

    AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME                                                             AMOUNT  VENDOR NAME

          345.06 DELL MARKETING, LP                                             368.75 GRAINGER, INC

          306.00 ROBERT LAPOS                                                       2110.83 M-R SIGN CO, INC

        6320.78 MACTEK SYSTEMS INC                                           927.35 MN ATTORNEY GENERAL’S OFFICE

          393.27 MN OFFICE OF ENTERPRISE TECHNO                10440.00 MSOP-MN SEX OFFENDER PRGRM-462

        8895.36 NORTH AMERICAN SALT CO                                  331.25 NORTH EAST TECHNICAL SERVICE,I

        2063.63 NORTHWEST ANGLE&ISLAND FREIGHT              490.71 REED’S SPORTING GOODS

          543.88 GEORGE SWENTIK                                                   406.68 T R JOBBING

          500.00 WILLIAMS YOUTH RECREATION ASSO

27 PAYMENTS LESS THAN  $300             3,064.04

FINAL TOTAL     $37,507.59

Further moved to authorize the payment of auditor warrants as follows:

October 14, 2008      $ 1,035,783.49

October 21, 2008      $    434,401.63

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

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid reviewed the third quarter financials including the revenue and expenditures report as of September 2008 with the board.  The board chair recommended this to be placed on the next department head meeting agenda.   

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen discussed the gas tax formula, stating there would be a decrease in revenue due to lower gas sales and the current state of the economy.   There is a projected $20,000 budget reduction in revenues as of October 2008.  There will be additional revenue projections in November and the final in January of 2009.  It was the recommendation of the Public Works Director to sit tight until we have the final numbers and at that time make budget adjustments accordingly.

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid presented a letter from the Baudette – Lake of the Woods Chamber of Commerce Festival of Lights Committee, requesting sponsorship for this year. 

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to authorize a sponsorship of $400 to the Festival of Lights Promotion – Movie Donations and to pay this out of general revenue levied money.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid presented quotes to repair the motor pool car.  Quotes were received as follows:

Gary’s Auto                                        $ 721.09

Nelson’s Collision Center                   $ 734.46

Wayne’s Body Shop                           $ 639.04

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve and accept the quote from Wayne’s Body Shop in the amount of $639.04 to repair the motor pool car.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Capital Expenditure Policy

The board reviewed the revised capital expenditure policy.  The board requested the County Auditor to make changes as discussed and bring back to the board for final approval.

Flu Shots

The board discussed allowing employees to receive flu shots this year.

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to allow all county employees to receive a flu shot, at the expense of the county, with LakeWood Nursing Service at the Lake of the Woods County Government Center.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried. 

Human Resources Director, Wade Johannesen

Human Resources Director, Wade Johannesen met with the board to request approval of an Assessor Contract job description as recommended by him.

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the job description for Contract Assessor. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Emergency Management Director, Holly House

Emergency Management Director, Holly House presented an Emergency Operation Plan for approval.

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the Emergency Operation Plan as presented and authorize Chairman Bredeson and Emergency Management Director, Holly House to sign the same.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Land & Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund

Land & Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund presented the Lake of the Woods County 2009 Natural Resource Block Grant.

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the 2009 Natural Resources Block Grant Agreement and the Program Allocation and Contribution Plan; and to authorize Chairman Bredeson and Land & Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund to sign the same. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Aggregate Resource Preservation Property Tax

The board discussed the termination option of the aggregate resource preservation property tax.

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

Resolution Number 08-10-02

Consideration of “Aggregate Resource Preservation Property Tax Law”

County Termination Option

Whereas, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners recognizes the importance of maintaining aggregate resources for the general economy of the county; and

Whereas, the County Board recognizes that property taxes are an important consideration as to the viability of the aggregate industries located in the county; and

Whereas, the State of Minnesota has an ad valorem property tax system based on the full market value of real estate or personal property; and

Whereas, the provisions of MN Statute § 273.1115, Aggregate Resource Preservation Property Tax Law, grants special and unique treatment to owners of land containing aggregate deposits, in comparison  with other property in the county, therefore shifting the tax burden on these properties to other taxpayers; and

Whereas, the provisions of MN Statute § 273.1115, Aggregate Resource Preservation Property Tax Law, allow a county to terminate application of this law: and

Whereas, a county may reauthorize application of this law by a resolution of the County Board revoking the termination; and

Whereas, the County Board is required to hold a public hearing as part of the process to terminate application of this law; and

Whereas, said public hearing has been scheduled for November 25, 2008 at 1:00 p.m., in the Commissioners’ room.

Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby elects to begin the process of terminating participation in the Aggregate Resource Preservation Property Tax Law in Lake of the Woods County.

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

Old/New Business

The board discussed the following old and new business: 

Old:

There have been no new updates on the ANI, LOW County Reverse Phone System, County TV or the City of Williams (Williams Community Center – old school). 

New:

The board received a letter from the Roseau Committee on Aging inviting two commissioners to serve on the board.  The consensus of the board was to appoint Commissioner Arnesen to represent the board on the committee and to report back to the board.

The board requested County Auditor John W Hoscheid to send a letter to the Humane Society requesting an update on any potential funding they may have received.

Meeting Reports:

Commissioners Arnesen, Todd Beckel and Moorman attended the Minnesota Rural Counties Caucus meeting in Menahga.  Commissioners Arnesen and Moorman updated the board.

Closed Session – Pursuant to MN Statute § 13D.03 Labor Negotiations and MN Statute § 13D.05, Subd. 2(b) Personnel Issues

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to close the regular session at 11:20 a.m. pursuant MN Statute § 13D.03 for union negotiations and MN Statute § 13D.05, Subd. 2 (b) personnel issues. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

The following were present in closed session:  Commissioners Arnesen, Bredeson, Patty Beckel and Moorman.  Absent was Commissioner Todd Beckel.  Also present was Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen.   

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to close the closed session at 12:15 p.m. and open the regular session.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

The meeting was called to recess at 12:16 p.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m. as follows:

Closed Session – Pursuant to MN Statute § 13D.05 Subd. 3(b)

Pending Litigation

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to close the regular session at 1:01 p.m. pursuant MN Statute § 13D.05 Subd. 3(b) for pending litigation.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

The following were present in closed session:  Commissioners Arnesen, Bredeson, Patty Beckel and Moorman.  Absent was Commissioner Todd Beckel.  Also present were the Board of Adjustments committee members:  Tom Mio, Buck Webb, Reed McFarlane and Jamie McEnelly; Jay Squires   from Ratwik, Roszak & Maloney and County Auditor, John W Hoscheid.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to close the closed session at 1:45 p.m. and open the regular session.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Land & Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund

Mr. Jay Squires, attorney from Ratwik, Roszak, and Maloney, representing the county in this matter and explained the genesis of the litigation.  On May 14, 2008, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Adjustment (BOA) approved a variance submitted by J & L Hennum, Inc.  This approval granted an increase in commercial density and less than the required 100 foot setback from the Rainy River.  The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR) subsequently appealed the decision of the BOA.  A mediation conference was held on October 7, 2008, with all parties present and a settlement agreement was reached.  The terms of the settlement agreement were discussed.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to accept the settlement agreement reached between the MN DNR and J&L Hennum, Inc. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, carried as follows:  For:  Commissioners:  Arnesen, Moorman, Bredeson;  Abstained:  Commissioner Patty Beckel;  Absent:  Commissioner Todd Beckel.

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Bredeson called the meeting to recess at 2:06 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved:       November 12, 2008

_____________________________                                                  ____________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                                    Kim Bredeson, Chairman

Special County Board Meeting

October 2, 2007

The Lake of the Woods County Board met in special session on Tuesday, October 2, 2007, in the Commissioners’ room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center, with the following members present:  Commissioners Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Bredeson and Moorman.   Chair Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance. 

Motion by Commissioner Moorman to approve the agenda with additions.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Joanne Kellner interviewed for the position of Human Resources Director.

After finishing with the interview at 10:00 a.m., the board discussed the position and the applicants interviewed.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to offer a contract for services for the Human Resources Director to Wade Johannesen.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried

The board discussed the following additional items:  Letter to the Editor, AMC update, Sheriff law enforcement contract with City of Baudette, ANI grant amount and solid waste projections.

The board requested County Auditor, John W Hoscheid to send letters to the applicants notifying them of the Boards’ decision.

There being no further business before the Board, Chair Todd Beckel called the meeting in recess at 12:30 p.m.

Attest:                                                                  Approved: October 9, 2007

_______________________________              __________________________________

John W Hoscheid                                         Todd R Beckel

County Auditor                                            Lake of the Woods County Board Chair

Commissioner Proceedings

October 9, 2007

The Lake of the Woods County Board met in regular session on Tuesday, October 9, 2007, in the Commissioners’ Room in the Lake of the Woods County Government Center with the following members present:  Commissioners Bredeson, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Arnesen and Moorman.  Also present were: County Auditor John W. Hoscheid, Steve Wymore, David Wipple, Wade Johannesen, Sandy Williamson and John Oren. Chairman Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance. 

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the agenda with the additions.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the consent agenda as follows: travel for Nancy Wendler to Brainerd on October 10-12 for MACSSA Conference.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Moorman to approve the minutes of September 25,2007 and September 27^th as presented and October 2, 2007, with corrections.  Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the claims against the county as follows:

Commissioners’ Warrants       $23,639.71

Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler reviewed the 2008-2009 County MFIP/CCSA Biennial Service Agreement with the Board.

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the 2008-2009 County MFIP/CCSA Biennial Service Agreement as presented.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler informed the board that a social worker had been hired and that there would be introductions at the next board meeting.

The County Board requested the County Auditor, John W Hoscheid to send a letter to all department heads stating there will be no cell phone purchases until the cell phone inventory has been completed and the County board approves a cell phone policy.

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion by Commissioner Moorman to approve the claims against the county as follows: 

                                                Revenue                      $          47,432.82

                                                Road & Bridge           $           82,298.65

                                                County Development  $                200.00

                                                Joint Ditch                  $                600.00

                                                Solid Waste                 $           27,235.59

                                                                                    $         157,767.06

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

WARRANTS APPROVED ON 10/09/2007 FOR PAYMENT 10/12/2007

      AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME                                                    AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME

          427.51 AMERI PRIDE LINEN & APPAREL SE                   1411.00 AMERICAN SOLUTIONS FOR BUSINES

          800.00 ASSN OF MN COUNTIES                                           533.28 AUTO VALUE

          500.00 BAUERS COMMUNICATIONS & SECURI                481.75 WAYNE BENDICKSON

          308.21 CANON FINANCIAL SERVICES                              1683.88 CERES EQUIPMENT INC

        2284.87 CO-OP SERVICES, INC.                                           8083.12 CONTECH CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS

        1944.14 DEAN’S HARDWARE                                               1765.78 DELL MARKETING, LP

          611.02 DODDS LUMBER                                                       447.00 GRAND VIEW LODGE

        2640.00 LEE HANCOCK                                                        1930.51 HOLTE IMPLEMENT, INC

          860.15 HOWARD’S OIL COMPANY                                      667.48 LAKE ROAD DIESEL INC

        8738.46 LOW HIGHWAY DEPT                                            9328.50 MAR-KIT LANDFILL

        7375.00 MIDWEST CELLULAR CONCRETE INC                 4279.14 MN COUNTIES COMPUTER CO-OP

        4538.02 MN DEPT OF TRANSP                                           10400.00 MN MUNICIPAL UTILITIES ASSOC

          300.00 MN OFFICE OF ENTERPRISE TECHNO                15843.70 MN STATE DEPT-CORRECTION

        1834.40 MONITOR TIRE DISPOSAL, INC                            1417.46 KENNETH MOORMAN

        5295.85 LAW MOREN                                                             629.84 NORTHWEST MECHANICAL SERVICE I

          324.92 PITNEY BOWES INC.                                               1324.86 R & Q TRUCKING, INC

          823.18 RODERICK RONE JR                                                1750.00 SJOBERG’S INC

          322.70 SOFTWARE HOUSE INTERNATIONAL,                   846.78 SORENSON CHEV-OLDS

          585.99 STRATA CORP, INC                                                   401.99 GEORGE SWENTIK

      20711.40 TRAFFIC MARKING SERVICE, INC.                       2640.00 VOYAGEURS COMTRONICS, INC

          350.00 WAYNE’S BODY SHOP-DBA                                     625.00 WIDSETH SMITH NOLTING&ASST INC

        3502.35 WOODY’S SERVICE                                               20821.80 ZIEGLER, INC

55 PAYMENTS LESS THAN  $300       5,376.02

****                  FINAL TOTAL…….    $157,767.06  ****

Further moved to authorize the payment of auditor’s warrants as follows:

                                                September 25, 2007            61,223.33

                                                                October 2, 2007        350.50

                                                                October 2, 2007            8,073.26

Motion was seconded by Commissioner Bredeson.  Discussion was had and at 9:30 a.m., motion by Commissioner Arnesen to table the approval of claims until later in the meeting.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried. 

At 2:00 p.m., Chair Todd Beckel brought forward the motion to approve the claims against the county and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval of affidavit of lost warrants.

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the application and affidavit for lost warrant for Michael Schulz, dated August 29, 2007, in the amount of $ 600.00, without furnishing an indemnifying bond.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried. 

Motion by Commissioner Moorman to approve the application and affidavit for lost warrant for Joan Pearson, dated May 23, 2007, in the amount of $ 64.00, without furnishing an indemnifying bond.  Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried. 

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid, reviewed the Revenue and Expenditure Guidelines as of September, 2007, with the Board. He stated that in the event they have any questions, to feel free to discuss them with him at their convenience.

The County Board reviewed documents received from Lee Meier, from Northwest Minnesota Multi-County Housing & Redevelopment Authority (HRA). The documents were for setting up the loan pool program, housing loan pool application procedures and copies of program parameters from participating counties.

Commissioner Bredeson updated the Board explaining various conversations he has had in regards to this program.   He mentioned a set up cost of $5000 and an interest rate of 3% at 10 years per applicant to be used for closing costs. The consensus of the Board was to ask Lee Meier to leverage grant funds available.  Commissioner Bredeson will contact Lee to draw up a contract that will be given to Interim County Attorney, Michelle Moren for review.  The funding for this project will be taken out of the current reserves for loan rehabilitation.

The Law Enforcement Committee gave an update on the law enforcement contract with the City of Baudette.  They reported that County Auditor, John W Hoscheid is working on a new formula to present to the law enforcement committee for negotiating with the City, by November 1, 2007. 

Commissioner Patty Beckel gave a report from the department head meeting held Monday, October 8, 2007, as follows:  cell phone update, the need for a policy on same, survey sent to employees regarding the Christmas party and employee recognition award, meeting minutes, goals and mission statement and department head facilitator for 2008.

Chair Todd Beckel discussed the current status of the Oberstar bill and a letter sent to Oberstar inviting him to meet with the Northern Counties Land Use Coordinating Board (NCLUCB). 

Discussion was had regarding the Goals and Mission Statement. 

Motion by Commissioner Moorman to approve the Goals and Mission Statement as follows:

“Lake of the Woods County is committed to ensure high quality services in a cost effective manner for all its citizens”

This Mission Statement will be included on all agenda letterhead for the Lake of the Woods County Board.  Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Bruce Biggins met with the County Board to present an offer to fill the remainder of the County Attorney’s term.  The Board thanked him for taking his time to come to the meeting.

The Board continued with discussing the County Attorney position.  The County Board requested the County Auditor, John W Hoscheid to write a letter to the potential candidates advising them that at this time, no action will be taken.

The meeting was called to recess at 10:27 a.m. and reconvened at 10:35 p.m. as follows:

County Recorder, Sue Ney met with the board regarding the final plat for Morris Point Estates.  

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the final plat of Morris Point Estates and authorize the Chairman and the County Auditor to sign the same.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

ANI Pharmaceutical discussion was had.  Wyatt Johnson met with the County Board regarding ANI Pharmaceutical financial incentive package.  Commissioner Bredeson informed the Board that Headwater Regional Finance Committee (HRFC) would perform a due diligence report at an hourly rate.  The Board discussed various options regarding a loan and grant to ANI Pharmaceutical.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to authorize the County Board Chair to sign a memorandum of understanding with ANI Pharmaceutical with the following expansion incentives:

Ø   A $200,000 loan plus $150,000 grant from the Economic Development Fund, contingent on due diligence and collateralization done by HRFC at 3% interest and an annual payment amortized at 30 years;

Ø   Said loan to have a three year balloon and to be reviewed for extension;

Ø  One year from date of loan closing; an audit of new jobs created, jobs and retention of same;

¨      ANI will be awarded a cash incentive of $3,000 per job created/retained with a $50,000 per year cap; also contingent on the overall salary of ANI employees having increased;

¨      Annual loan payment due in the amount of $10,116;

Ø  Two years from date of loan closing; audit of new jobs created, jobs and retention of same;

¨      ANI will be awarded a cash incentive of $3,000 per job created/retained with a $50,000 per year cap; also contingent on the overall salary of ANI employees having increased;

¨      Annual loan payment due in the amount of $10,116;

Ø  Three years from date of loan closing; audit of new jobs created, jobs and retention of same;

¨      ANI will be awarded a cash incentive of $3,000 per job created/retained with a $50,000 per year cap; also contingent on the overall salary of ANI employees having increased;

¨      Annual loan payment due in the amount of $10,116;

Ø  Four years from date of loan closing; audit of new jobs created, jobs and retention of same;

¨      ANI will be awarded any remaining cash incentives of $3,000 per job created/retained; also contingent of the overall salary of ANI employees having increased;

¨      Balloon payment due in the amount of $169,652 plus interest.

Seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel.  Chair Todd Beckel called for a roll call vote:   In Favor:  Commissioners Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Bredeson and Moorman; Against:  Commissioner Arnesen.  The motion carried. 

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board regarding county ownership of the School Access Road. Steve Wymore, with the Lake of the Woods School also attended the meeting.  Bruce stated that the School Access Road does meet and exceeds township standards.  It was the consensus of the County Board to have Bruce move forward with the easement, signs and to report back to the Board.

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the Board to discuss engineering positions within the Public Works Department.  Bruce mentioned a potential of 3 individuals retiring in the next coming years and wanted some direction from the Board for future planning in his department.

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen informed the Board that the permanent part-time office assistant has completed her 6 months probation.

Motion by Commissioner Moorman to certify the permanent part-time office assistant off probation effective October 2, 2007, and to approve a step increase from Grade 6, Step 1 to Grade 6, Step 2.   Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen discussed the maximum weight restriction on minimum maintenance roads.  He explained that all the roads are marked accordingly.

The meeting was called to recess at 12:30 p.m. and reconvened at 1:16 p.m. as follows:

Interim County Attorney, Michelle Moren met with the Board to discuss the Human Resource Contract.  A draft copy of the contract was presented and discussed.  Michelle gave the Board updates on pending cases and an overview of the past few weeks in the attorney office.

Veterans Service Officer, Rick Rone and Bud Hanson met with the board regarding a community storage building.   Discussion was had and it was the consensus of the Board to be in support of this project.  The Board referred this to the building committee and will give an update to Bud Hanson in a month. 

Commissioner Moorman suggested having a County Booth at Potato Day in Williams this year to answer any county related questions. Commissioner Arnesen stated we would be available to assist with this booth.  It was the consensus of the board to move forward with this idea.

Commissioner Moorman gave an update on the Transportation Advisory Committee.

Correspondence regarding a letter from an attorney interested in the county attorney position was read and discussed.

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

Attest:                                                                         Approved:       October 23, 2007

____________________________                            _____________________________

John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor                           Todd Beckel, Chairman

Commissioner Proceedings

October 23, 2007

The Lake of the Woods County Board met in regular session on Tuesday, October 23, 2007, in the Commissioners’ Room in the Lake of the Woods County Government Center with the following members present:  Commissioners Bredeson, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Arnesen and Moorman.  Also present were: County Auditor John W. Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, Wade Johannesen, Sandy Williamson and John Oren. Chairman Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance. 

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the agenda with the following addition: Community Seconds. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the consent agenda as follows: travel for Ron Norquist to Thief River Falls on October 30-31 for Property Value Course; Holly House to Thief River Falls on October 24-25 for RACC and Northwest Region quarterly meeting; Dale Boretski to Clearwater on November 12-13 for Manatron Tax Group meeting. Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Moorman to approve the minutes of October 9, 2007 as presented.  Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Wade Johannesen met with the board to discuss the Professional Services Contract for the Human Resource Director.

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the Professional Service Contract for Human Resource Director as presented, effective October 23, 2007 and to authorize the County Board Chairman, Interim County Attorney and County Auditor to sign.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to approve the claims against the county as follows:

Commissioners’ Warrants       $28,354.87

Seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler reviewed the 2008-2010 TriMin Systems, Inc. professional services contract with the board.

Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the contract between TriMin Systems, Inc. and Lake of the Woods County Social Services for 2008-2010, for the provision of professional services to obtain computer programming, technical assistance, and related services to support and maintain the IFS, ACS, & SWS computer systems and to authorize Chairman Todd Beckel and Lake of the Woods County Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler, to sign same. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried. 

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler requested a leave of absence of Heidi Olson for six months. After discussion, the consensus of the board was that they would grant a one-month leave and requested Nancy to come back later in the day to see  if the employee accepted or declined the one-month leave.

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the claims against the county as follows: 

                                                Revenue                      $          37,661.90

                                                Road & Bridge           $          101,591.42

                                                Solid Waste                 $              3,641.78

                                                                                    $          142,895.10

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

WARRANTS APPROVED ON 10/23/2007 FOR PAYMENT 10/26/2007

      AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME                                                   AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME

        1390.14 ANDY’S GARAGE, INC.                                           1120.00 ARM  REGISTRATION OFFICE

          675.00 ASSN OF MN COUNTIES                                           525.00 BREEZY POINT RESORT

          981.20 CATCO                                                                      8856.02 CO-OP SERVICES, INC.

        3018.82 DYNAMIC IMAGING SYSTEMS, INC                   37228.15 HANSON SILO COMPANY

        2103.46 HOWARD’S OIL COMPANY                                      725.00 LAKE SUPERIOR COLLEGE

          600.00 LOW MASTER GARDENER                                     1829.94 LOW SOIL & WATER CONS. DIST.

          345.38 REED MCFARLANE                                                   600.00 MIDWEST MONITORING & SURVEILLA

          372.70 MN COUNTIES COMPUTER CO-OP                          688.01 JEROME MOLINE

          758.07 THE NORTHERN LIGHT                                         1688.03 NORTHWEST ANGLE&ISLAND FREIGHT

          586.41 NW MN HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS                      1841.61 PRO ACTION UNIFORMS

          732.43 QUILL CORPORATION                                              336.54 RUTTGER’S BAY LAKE LODGE

          673.28 SIMPLEX                                                                    727.40 SOFTWARE HOUSE INTERNATIONAL,

          316.32 JOSH STROMLUND                                               49500.00 T & M SALES  DBA

          379.43 DAVID THOMAS                                                       344.56 UNIFORMS UNLIMITED

      17281.76 VOYAGEURS COMMUNICATIONS, INC                1261.28 VOYAGEURS COMTRONICS, INC

          545.89 WEST GROUP                                                             500.00 CITY WILLIAMS

35 PAYMENTS LESS THAN  $300       4,363.27

****                  FINAL TOTAL…….    $142,895.10  ****

Further moved to authorize the payment of auditor’s warrants as follows:

                                                September 26, 2007    44,768.37

                                                October 9, 2007          44,143.73

                                                October 10, 2007        76,110.95

Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval of a gambling permit for the Northwest Minnesota Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #8.

Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the application for exempt gambling for Northwest Minnesota Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #8 for a raffle, which will be held at Sportsman’s Lodge on February 25, 2008.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid, reviewed the Lake of the Woods Aggregate Tax as of September, 2007, with the board. As of the 3^rd quarter, $7,027.32 had been collected, and $30,000 was budgeted for FY2007.

Jeff Poolman, representing the Depot Preservation Alliance (DPA) met with the board informing them that the MN Historical Society indicated that the Grants Review Committee has recommended the approval of the DPA grant application for a gas-fired furnace. Jeff requested the $2,500 that was approved in August of 2007, be released in late 2007 or early in 2008 to the DPA so they can purchase the furnace.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson to advance the 2008 Con-Con funds in the amount of $2,500 to the Depot Preservation Alliance.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

County Sheriff, Dallas Block met with the board to discuss the adoption of administrative civil penalty tickets which would consist of the following: failure to obey traffic signals, speeding, improper lane use, improper turns, failure to yield right of way, stopping or parking on a roadway, other parking violation, littering, equipment violations, failure to use passenger restraints for children, seat belt, trespass, disorderly conduct, public nuisance, unlawful deposit of garbage, loud exhaust, exhibition driving, reckless or careless, off-road vehicle and snowmobile violations and others. The ticket fees would remain within the county and not sent to the state.  Dallas informed the board that he will meet with them at the next meeting for the board to consider adopting an Ordinance for Administrative Tickets. 

Commissioner Bredeson informed the board that the Headwaters Regional Development Commission has approved the pre-application to Northwest Minnesota Foundation (NWMF) and has requested a motion from Lake of the Woods County board to submit a full application to the NWMF for assistance in funding the amendments to the county ordinances.  He also thanked County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid for his assistance in getting the deeds for the two city lots in Baudette.

Motion by Commissioner Moorman that Lake of the Woods County Commissioners requests that the Headwaters Regional Development Commission submit the full application to the Northwest Minnesota Foundation for $12,000 for assistance in funding the amendments of the Lake of the Woods County Ordinances and to authorize Chairman Todd Beckel to sign. Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried. 

Commissioner Bredeson discussed the  Community Seconds program which allows a borrower to obtain a second lien mortgage that typically is funded by a federal, state, or local government agency and the process of setting up a board by appointment of citizens or the county board themselves.  The board requested that Commissioner Bredeson ask Lee Meier, from Northwest Minnesota Multi-County Housing & Redevelopment Authority (HRA) to meet with them to discuss how the board should proceed.

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and discussed the FY 2008 Clean Water Legacy grant application.

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board requesting approval for the purchase of a skid steer and sander.

Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize the Public Works Director to purchase a skid steer and a sander this year, as budgeted in the 2008 capital expenditure budget for the highway department. Seconded by Commissioner Bredeson and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Public Works Administrative Assistant, Jodi Bauers met with the board to discuss county cell phones and the possibility of changing to the MN Government Plan.  Discussion also included personal calls on county owned cell phones, Canadian home charges, pricing of new phones, switching to a 434 number (no charge for local calls).  The board requested this to be placed on the Department Heads agenda for their input and requested that Jodi attend the Department Heads meeting to present the cell phone plan.

The meeting was called to recess at 11:45 a.m. and reconvened at 1:02 p.m. as follows:

County Surveyor, Donn Rasmussen and Interim County Attorney, Michelle Moren met with the board and the following property owners: Walt Coninx, Russ Baron, Benita Baron, Rodney Gubbels, Judy Gubbels, Linda Roberts, Marinie Korpie, Arvid Olson and David Norquist to discuss the survey issue regarding discrepancies between the deed lines and the occupied lines west of Clementson in Government Lot 5, Section 12, Gudrid Township to see what the property owners want to do about the discrepancies.  Donn explained that they could go through a process called Establishment of Boundary Commission pursuant MN Statues 465.79, which allows the county board to appoint a Boundary Commission or the Quit Claim Deed process.  The property owners requested an estimated cost of the two options to help in their decision. The board requested that Donn determine the estimated cost and send out letters to the property owners.

Chairman Todd Beckel thanked the property owners for attending and requested that they inform the board as to which option they would prefer.

Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board and informed them that Heidi Olson would accept the one-month leave of absence that was discussed earlier in the day.

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to authorize a one-month leave of absence for Heidi Olson to start when accumulated vacation time has been exhausted.  Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

The following correspondence was acknowledged:  AMC transportation funding; Northern Counties Land Use Coordinating Board, Freeberg & Grund, Inc.; House of Representative house number 2421; Proper Economic Resource Management and MN Pollution Control Agency.

With no further business before the board, Chairman Todd Beckel called the meeting to recess at 2:06p.m.

Attest:                                                                         Approved:       November 13, 2007

____________________________                            _____________________________

John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor                           Todd Beckel, Chairman

Special County Board Meeting

October 30, 2007

The Lake of the Woods County Board met in special session on Tuesday, October 30, 2007, in the Commissioners’ room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center, with the following members present:  Commissioners Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Bredeson and Moorman.   Also present were:  County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Lake of the Woods County residents and media.  Chair Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance. 

Motion by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the agenda with the following additions:  Northwest Angle Island road and grant criteria.  Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Commissioner Arnesen voiced his concerns on the process with the ANI grant and loan Memorandum of Understanding.  He stated he would like to see a business plan.  Commissioner Bredeson commented on how Headwaters Regional Development Commission (HRDC) is a qualified agency to perform the due diligence, not the County Board.

Commissioner Arnesen also stated he wanted clarification and understanding of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).  He indicated his concerns that we do not spend tax payers’ money without certain criteria being addressed.  The consensus of the board was the same.

Economic Development Director, Wyatt Johnson gave the County Board and audience the latest update from ANI on the Memorandum of Understanding.  He talked about JOBZ and where we were in potentially securing JOBZ exemptions.

Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to establish the minimum requirements for county funding:

Ø  Credit report

Ø  Project narrative and business plan

Ø  Proposed financing

Ø  Budget detail

Ø  Financial statement and balance sheet for 3 years

Ø  Projected income statement with supporting documents

Ø  Ownership

Ø  Permits

Ø  Costs

Ø  Reviewed by the Auditor’s Office

Motion seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel.

The County Board of Commissioners discussed the motion details and various options.  Commissioner Arnesen amended the motion as follows:

Lake of the Woods County will set a minimum requirement and standard application criteria policy for county funding expenditures over $20,000 a year.  The motion was put to a vote and unanimously carried.

Motion by Commissioner Arnesen to set a $50,000 per year cap from the economic development fund with no one entity receiving more that $150,000 in aggregate.  The motion died from a lack of a second.

Motion by Commissioner Bredeson authorizing the Board Chair to sign the Memorandum of Understanding of a maximum of a $200,000 loan and $150,000 cash grant incentives; contingent on due diligence by HRDC and subject to claw back provisions and county standards in case of non-performance.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and was put to a vote and carried as follows:  In favor:  Commissioners Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Bredeson and Moorman;   Against:  Commissioner Arnesen. 

Commissioner Arnesen discussed with Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen the Northwest Angle Island road conditions.  Northwest Angle residents, Brian Sage and Gary Dietzler expressed their concerns about lack of gravel and/or additional gravel with the pot holing during recent rains.

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen explained findings of road conditions on his visit to the Northwest Angle.  He discussed various options with the board.  It was the consensus of the Board of Commissioners to direct Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen to look at gravel crushing at the Northwest Angle.

There being no further business before the Board, Chair Todd Beckel called the meeting in recess at 10:40 a.m.

Attest:                                                                        Approved:  ________________________

___________________________________________                                        ________________________________________________

John W Hoscheid                                                                              Todd R Beckel

County Auditor                                                                 Lake of the Woods County Board Chair