December, 2011

Commissioner Proceedings

Special County Board Meeting

December 2, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in special session on Friday, December 2, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center.

Call to Order

Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to order at 8:05 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present:  Commissioners Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Tom Hanson and Ken Moorman.  Commissioner Ed Arnesen was in attendance via a conference call.  Also present were:  County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Chief Deputy Auditor Lorene Hanson and John Oren. 

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to approve the agenda for the special meeting today with the following addition of the Army Corp of Engineers.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

2012 Salaries

The County Board reviewed 2012 salaries and related motions to be discussed further at the next regular scheduled county board meeting.   It was noted that there was a union negotiation meeting scheduled for Monday, December 12, 2011.

Social Services Director Nancy Wendler met with the County Board to discuss steps and the current salary schedule.

It was the consensus of the County Board to set up a committee in January of 2012, to review and discuss a comp worth plan.

The stipend for personal cell phones was discussed and how it is addressed in the cell phone policy.  Commissioner Tom Hanson was going to review this policy with the Human Resources Director and bring this back to the next regular scheduled county board meeting.  

2012 Budget Review

The County Board discussed the levy for 2012 and the individual fund budgets.  Commissioner Tom Hanson will visit with the County Sheriff and request an update on Stonegarden at the next regular scheduled county board meeting.

2012 EDA Budget

The County Board reviewed the 2012 Economic Development Authority (EDA) budget.  

Capital Expenditure Request Review

The County Board reviewed the capital expenditure requests for 2012.  It was the consensus to have Commissioner Patty Beckel visit with the County Assessor Mary Jo Otten regarding a replacement vehicle.

County Auditor John W Hoscheid discussed the request for a windows sequel server upgrade. MIS Director Brent Birkeland will present an official request to the County Board at their next regular scheduled county board meeting.

Army Corp of Engineers

A meeting with the Army Corp of Engineers was set up for Tuesday, December 6, 2012, at their office in Minneapolis, to discuss wetlands.  It was noted that the Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC) Annual Conference would be during this time and all available Commissioners, County Auditor John W Hoscheid and Land and Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund would be attending this meeting with the Army Corp of Engineers.

Minnesota Rural Counties Causus (MRCC)

An addendum to the MRCC survey was reviewed and completed by the County Board.

Recess

There being no further business before the County Board, Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to recess at 10.10 a.m.

Attest:                                                             Approved:  December 13, 2011

______________________________            ___________________________________

John W Hoscheid                                          Ken Moorman

County Auditor                                             County Board Chair

Commissioner Proceedings

December 13, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, December 13, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Chairman Moorman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Hanson and Moorman. Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, Penny Mio Hirst and John Oren.

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda with the following additions: DNR Access at Rocky Point Area and Corps Certification. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made byCommissioner Todd Beckel to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Mark Hall on January 10-13 for MACO Conference in Bloomington; Tim Erickson on January 17-20 for County Engineers’ Conference in Brainerd; Holly House on February 12-16 for AMEM board meeting and annual Governors Conference; Susan Ney on January 9-11 for MACO Conference in Bloomington; John W. Hoscheid on January 10-13 for MACO Conference in Bloomington; Lorene Hanson on January 10-13 for MACO Conference in Bloomington. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the minutes of November 22, 2011 regular meeting with changes and December 2, 2011 special meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Social services

Claims

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       $ 10,618.49

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $ 16,959.32

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

2012 Contract Renewals

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the Board requesting approval for the following 2012 contract renewals:

Motions

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the contract between the Lake of the Woods County MIS Department and Lake of the Woods County Social Services for 2012-2013, for the provision of MIS services, and to authorize Chairperson Ken Moorman and Lake of the Woods County Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler, to sign same.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the contract between Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota and Lake of the Woods County Social Services for 2012 for the provision of intensive in-home family based services and CADI /TBI family counseling and training services and to authorize Chairperson Ken Moorman and Lake of the Woods County Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler , to sign same. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the contract between Lutheran Social Services and Lake of the Woods County Social Services for 2012 for the provision of home delivered meals, and to authorize Chairperson Ken Moorman and Lake of the Woods County Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler , to sign same. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the contract between Lutheran Social Services and Lake of the Woods County Social Services for 2012 for the provision of waivered services caregiver training & education, respite care and companion services, and to authorize Chairperson Ken Moorman and Lake of the Woods County Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler , to sign 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 Patty Beckel to approve the contract between the Occupational Development Center, Inc. and Lake of the Woods County Social Services for 2012-2013, for the provision of employment and training services and independent living skills services, and to authorize Chairperson Ken Moorman and Lake of the Woods County Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler , to sign same. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the MR/RC contract between Rainy River Waivered Services and Lake of the Woods County Social Services for 2012-2013, for the provision of adult in-home support services, personal support, supported living, and independent living skills for DD clients and to authorize Chairperson Ken Moorman and Lake of the Woods County Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler , to sign same. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Lake of the Woods Tourism Bureau- Joe Henry

Executive Director, Joe Henry met with the board and introduced himself as the new director for the Tourism Bureau. Joe gave a brief background on himself and shared some marketing ideas that he has for the bureau.

County Recorder

County Recorder, Susan Ney met with the board to present a report detailing the delivery time of documents recorded in her office pursuant to MN Statute 357.182, Subd. 6. Susan informed the board that her office is in compliance with the statute for completion of the recording process.

Emergency Management

Emergency Management Director, Holly House met with the board requesting approval for the 2011 Emergency Management Performance Grant.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to enter into a grant agreement with MN Department of Public Safety, Homeland Security and Emergency Management for an 2011 Emergency Management Performance Grant commencing January 1, 2011 and terminating December 31, 2011 and authorize Chairman Moorman and Emergency Management Director, Holly House to sign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 9:55 a.m. and reconvened at 10:07 a.m. as follows:

LAKEWOOD NURSING SERVICE

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval for the LakeWood Nursing Service.

LakeWood Nursing Service Agreement

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the Purchase of Service Agreement between the Lake of the Woods County and LakeWood Health Center for the year 2012 and to authorize Chairman Moorman, County Auditor John W Hoscheid and County Attorney, Philip Miller to sign.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Auditor

Claims

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid met with the County Board for approval of claims.

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

                                                Revenue                       $       76,136.40         

                                                Road & Bridge             $       16,777.46

                                                County Develop           $            200.00         

                                                Solid Waste                  $       24,855.27

                                                EDA                             $         4,419.49

                                                                                     $     122,388.62         

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 12/13/2011 For Payment 12/16/2011

Vendor Name                                                     Amount

Brown/Terry                                                               2,109.16

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                    5,967.95

Chader Business Equipment                                   3,607.76

Conservation Corps Minnesota & Iowa                 5,100.00

Cps Technology Solutions                                     2,719.89

Farmers Union Oil Co.                                             4,067.22

Insight Technologies, Inc                                       2,382.24

LOW Highway Dept                                                 4,148.75

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                          8,937.90

Michaels Consulting, Inc/Ron                                 8,599.76

Northwest Community Action, Inc                          3,206.48

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                  2,733.00

Stoskopf, Inc/Steven E                                           10,200.00

Uniforms Unlimited                                                   2,837.12

Voyageurs Comtronics, Inc                                   15,657.19

Woody’s Service                                                       2,945.17

77 Payments less than 2000  — $ 37,169.03

Final Total: $ 122,388.62

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                November 23, 2011        $       14,566.91

                                                November 30, 2011        $     449,202.50      

                                                December 7, 2011           $        8,940.45

                                                December 7, 2011           $    169,494.78

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

2012 IRS Mileage Rate

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and requested approval to set the 2012 mileage rate. John informed the board that the rate remains the same at 55.5 cents per business miles. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to set the 2012 mileage rate at the IRS standard rate. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried. (It was noted that the Internal Revenue Service issued a 55.5 cents per mile beginning January 1, 2012 for the standard mileage rate)

County Surveyor Appointment

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid informed the board that the County Surveyor term expires at the end of the year and needs to be re-appointed by the board.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to appoint Donn Rasmussen as Lake of the Woods County Surveyor for the year 2012 pursuant to MN Statute 389.011, Subd. 2. The motion was second by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Surveyor Amendment to Professional Service Contract

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the amendment to the Professional Service Contract between Lake of the Woods County and Widseth Smith Nolting and Associates, Inc for a Professional Services Contract designating a licensed land surveyor for the county. The county and the contractor have now agreed to amend this contract commencing January 1, 2012 and terminating December 31, 2012. The contractor shall be paid the sum of $11,000 per annum, and authorize Chairman Moorman, County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid, and County Attorney, Philip Miller to sign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put

Border land Substance Abuse Court

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board to discuss funding for the Border Land Substance Abuse Court as discussed last March.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to contribute $15,000 to the Border Land Substance Abuse Court for 2012 as discussed at the March 8, 2011 board meeting with the funding from the revenue account. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Temporary Loan to Economic Development Fund

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval for a temporary loan to Lake of the Woods EDA, to mitigate temporary negative cash balance.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize a temporary loan to the Lake of the Woods County Economic Development Fund; to mitigate temporary negative cash balance. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Elected Officials – Minimum Salaries

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid presented a resolution to set 2012 minimum salaries to the board for their approval.

Resolution

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

Resolution For

Establishing Minimum Salaries for Elective Offices

Resolution 2011 – 12-01

Whereas:   M.S. 388.18, Subd. 1, et seq., M.S. 384.151, Subd. 1, et seq., M.S. 386.015, Subd. 1, et seq., M.S. 387.20, Subd. 1, et seq., and M.S. 385.373, Subd. 1, et seq. requires the County Board, at the January meeting prior to the first date on which applicants may file for County elective offices, to establish minimum annual salaries to be paid to the respective office holders at the term next following;

Therefore, Be It Resolved:that the following statutory minimum annual salaries are hereby established for county elective offices for the term beginning in January of the year 2012:

                                    County Attorney:        $6,000

                                    County Auditor:         $6,000

                                    County Recorder:       $6,000

                                    County Sheriff:           $6,000

                                    County Treasurer:       $6,000

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

2012 Organizational Meeting

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid requested the board to set their 2012 Organizational date.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to set the County Boards Organizational meeting for January 3, 2012 at 9:00 a.m. at the Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval for Exempt Gambling Permit

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid requested approval for a Minnesota Lawful Gambling Permit for the University of Minnesota Crookston to conduct a lawful gambling raffle on February 4, 2012.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the exempt gambling permit for University of Minnesota Crookston to conduct a lawful gambling for a raffle on February 4, 2012 at Zippel Bay Resort and authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to sign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Hoffman, Dale, & Swenson- Audit Service Agreement

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid requested approval to enter into an Audit Service Agreement with Hoffman, Dale, & Swenson PLLC for 2011 year-end audit.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to enter into a service agreement with Hoffman, Dale, & Swenson, PLLC to provide 2011 year-end audit for Lake of the Woods County and authorize, County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and Chairman Moorman to sign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Public Works Department

2012 Solid Waste Assessment

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and presented the 2012 Solid Waste Assessment to the board for their approval.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the 2012 Solid Waste Assessment as presented. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Signing Policy

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting approval for Lake of the Woods County Public Works Department Signing Policy.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to adopt the Signing Policy as presented by the Public Works Director. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Closed Session- MN STATUTE §13d.03- Labor Negotiations

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to close the regular meeting at 11:00 a.m. as advertised and  open the closed session, pursuant MN Statute §13D.03 for Labor Negotiations. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried. Members present were: Commissioner Moorman, Arnesen, Hanson, Patty Beckel and Todd Beckel. Others in attendance were Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to close the closed session and open the regular session at 11:55 a.m. The Motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Far North Public Transit

Far North Public Transit Director, Steve Butler met with the board requesting renewals for the Transit Service Agreement and the Transit Vehicle Lease Agreement.

Motion- Lease Agreement

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to enter into a Lease Agreement between Lake of the Woods County and the Roseau County Committee of Aging to operate the public transportation system for Lake of the Woods County commencing January 1, 2012 through December 31, 2012.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion- Public Transit Agreement

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to enter into a Public Transit Service Agreement between Lake of the Woods County and the Roseau County Committee of Aging to administer and operate as part of a Multi County Transit System with Roseau County commencing January 1, 2012 through December 31, 2012.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously

MIS DEPARTMENT

MIS Director, Brent Birkeland met with the board requesting approval for updated server and client software for the Migration of Manatron GRM requires a newer version.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize MIS Director, Brent Birkeland to purchase Windows Network User Licenses from the 2011 MIS Budget as budgeted in the amount $1,218.38. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to authorize MIS Director to purchase Window Server Licenses from the Technology fund in the amount of $6,022.41.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Lake of the Woods Cell Phone Policy Revision

Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen met with the board to review the revision of the Cell Phone Policy and to add monthly stipends into the policy. The board requested that this be placed on the December 30, 2011 agenda for approval of rates for 2012. (Rates for stipend will be approved yearly)

Sheriff’s Office

Sheriff, Dallas Block and Chief Deputy Sheriff, Terry Bandemer met with the board to discuss the Stonegarden Grant. Dallas informed the board that Administrative Assistant, Julie Berggren was out and has the information. The board requested that they come back on December 30, 2011 to discuss the Stonegarden Grant. Sheriff Dallas Block requested approval for the Snowmobile Safety Enforcement Grant and authorization for Chief Deputy Sheriff, Terry Bandemer to sign any legal documents for Lake of the Woods Sheriff’s Office in his absence.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to enter into a Snowmobile Safety Enforcement Grant with the State of Minnesota, Department of Natural Resources and Lake of the Woods Sheriff, pursuant to MN. Statute § 84.024 in the amount of $4,470.00 effective December 15, 2011 and terminating June 30, 2013 and authorize Chairman Moorman and County Sheriff, Dallas Block to sign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve County Sheriff, Dallas Block request to allow Chief Deputy Sheriff, Terry Bandemer to sign any legal documents for the Sheriff’s office in his absence. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Cameras

The board inquired if the Cameras had been placed in the jail cells. Sheriff, Dallas Block stated that they have been installed and follow MN Department of Corrections Standards for monitoring the prisoners.

Closed Session- MN STATUTE §13d.03- Labor Negotiations

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel  to close the regular meeting at 1:45 p.m. and open the Closed Session, pursuant MN Statute §13D.03 for Labor Negotiations to continue the earlier session. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried. Members present were: Commissioner Moorman, Arnesen, Hanson, Patty Beckel and Todd Beckel. Others in attendance were Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the closed session and open the regular session at 2:05 p.m. The Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Wetland Bank

Land & Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund met with the board to discuss the “Bernard Wetland Banking Project” and the meeting which they attended on December 6, 2011 with the Corps of Engineers. The board discussed the Mitigation Banking Instrument. The board concurred to sign the instrument and move on and sell the wetland credits that are available.

Notation: Lake of the Woods County Board did not hold a Special Session on December 6, 2011 in St. Paul; they just met with the Corps of Engineers and no decision were made; action was taken today.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize Chairman Moorman to sign the Mitigation Banking Instrument. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

TNT Meeting Materials

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and reviewed the TNT meeting materials with the board that he prepared for the Public Hearing at 6:00 p.m. this evening.

CORRESPONDENCE:

Correspondence was read and acknowledged from:

  • MCIT Dividend; 2012  dividends totals$123,728
  • Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation; 9th International Water Quality Forum march 7-8, 2012

Old/New Business

  • Lessard –Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund- none
  • Land Acquisition – next year  
  • Red Lake Tribe – January Meeting
  • Township Road Inventory/ATV Ordinance – none
  • Inventory – none
  • Beaver – MN Statute on Bounty
  • Clementson Bridge Property – waiting to hear from Lou Tasa
  • CAMA – remove
  • 2012 Goals and Objectives – none
  • 2012 Budget – TNT at 6:00 p.m.

Rocky Point Boat Access

Commissioner Arnesen informed the board that he has not seen any progress on the construction of the Rocky Point boat access that the DNR had been working on and thought that they should inquire on the status of the project. The board placed this on the January 10, 2012 agenda.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 3:10 p.m. and reconvened at 6:00 p.m.  Chairman Moorman led the Pledge of Allegiance. The following members present: Commissioners Ed Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Tom Hanson and Ken Moorman. Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd and Chief Deputy Auditor Lorene Hanson.

Public Hearing-2012 Proposed Budget and Levy

The following members present: Commissioners Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Hanson and Moorman. Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, County Treasurer, Mark Hall, County Assessor, MaryJo Otten, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the regular meeting at 6:00 p.m. and open the Public Hearing, pursuant MN Statute §275.065 Subd. 3(c), for the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners to hear all interested parties comments on the 2012 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Chairman Moorman welcomed the public to the hearing.

County Auditor John W. Hoscheid reviewed the 2012 Proposed Budget.  He reviewed how the budget and other taxing entities (State of Minnesota; School Districts 390 and 690; Cities of Baudette and Williams and Unorganized Townships) affect the tax levy and statements. 

Chairman Moorman opened the floor for comments from the public in attendance. County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid read a letter from Paul Buran Family for the record.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to close the Public Hearing at 6:55 p.m. and reconvene the regular meeting.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

ADOPTION OF 2012 BUDGET AND TAX LEVY

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and requested approval for the 2012 Budget and Tax Levy.

RESOLUTION ADOPTING 2012 CERTIFIED BUDGET AND TAX LEVY Resolution   2011-12-02

The following Resolution was proposed and moved for adoption by Commissioner Todd Beckel:

WHEREAS, the certified county budget for the year 2012 has been reviewed by the Lake of the

Woods County Board of Commissioners; and

NOW THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED THAT THE FOLLOWING CERTIFIED BUDGET AND TAX LEVY IS HERBY ADOPTED FOR LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY FOR 2012:
Revenue Fund$1,275,088
Road & Bridge Fund$   449,580
Social Service Fund$   603,935
Economic Development Authority Fund$     60,000
Total$2,388,603
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT THE FOLLOWING AMOUNTS BE LEVIED AGAINST THE UNORGANIZED TOWNSHIPS OF LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY FOR 2012:
Twp Road & Bridge$  425,175*
Twp Fire – Baudette$    21,000
Williams$    27,282
NW Angle$      6,500
Total$  479,957

* $425,175 for Township Road & Bridge includes $10,000 which is specifically levied to Northwest Angle residents for Calcium Chloride. ($415,175 + $10,000 = $425,175)

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

Recess

With no further business before the County Board, Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to recess at 7:08 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: December 30, 2011

_____________________________                                      _______________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                        Ken Moorman, Board Chair

Commissioner Proceedings

December 30, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Friday, December 30, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Ed Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Tom Hanson and Ken Moorman. Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Chief Deputy Auditor Lorene Hanson, John Oren and Penny Mio Hirst.

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to approve the agenda with the following additions: Affidavit Lost Warrant, Bernard Project, Credit Card, Sheriff Inventory and Correspondence from Depot Preservation Alliance and Arrowhead Library System. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made byCommissioner Todd Beckel to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Josh Stromlund to St. Paul on January 9-10,for MN Association of Soil and Water Conservation District Legislative Committee Meeting and on January 11, for Local Government Water Roundtable Advisory Committee Meeting. The motion was 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 minutes of December 13, 2011 regular meeting, with changes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Social services

Claims

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

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

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $ 32,520.90

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $ 12,297.78

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

Contract Renewals

County IV-D Cooperative

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the County IV-D Cooperative Agreement for county child support enforcement program expenditures between the Lake of the Woods County Attorney, County Sheriff, Social Services and MN Department of Human Services for two years, 2012-2013, and to authorize Lake of the Woods County Attorney, Phil Miller; County Sheriff, Dallas Block and Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler to sign the same.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ken Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

LifeCare Behavioral Health Services

Motion was made by Commissioner Ken Moorman to approve the contract between LifeCare Behavioral Health Services and Lake of the Woods County Social Services for two years, 2012-2013, for the provision of clinical supervision/consultation for agency staff and to authorize Chair Ken Moorman and Lake of the Woods County Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler to sign the same.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

CHI Health Connect at Home – Fargo

Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to approve the contract between CHI Health Connect at Home – Fargo and Lake of the Woods County Social Services for the year 2012, for the provision of respite care services and to authorize Chair Ken Moorman 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.

CHI Health Connect at Home – Fargo

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the contract between CHI Health Connect at Home – Fargo and Lake of the Woods County Social Services for the year 2012, for the provision of professional nursing consultation, skilled nursing services, home health aide services and in-service education and to authorize Chair Ken Moorman and Lake of the Woods County Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler to sign the same.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler explained that two of the contracts on the County Board Agenda:  1) CHI Health Connect at Home – Fargo (Lakewood Nursing) – LTCC, RN & HHA for Waivered Programs and 2) LakeWood Health Center – Housing with Services – Waivered Programs, had not been received back from the entities, and she would bring them forward to the next regular county board meeting.

County Auditor

Claims

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid met with the County Board for approval of claims.

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

                                                Revenue                     $     57,186.56  

                                                Road & Bridge          $     15,942.71

                                                Solid Waste               $       4,898.80

                                                EDA                          $       3,256.71

                                                                                   $     81,284.78              

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 12/30/2011 for Payment 12/30/2011

Vendor Name                                          Amount

American Solutions For Business             2,329.56

Arnesen/Ed                                                   2,096.42

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                      2,298.33

Koochiching Co Treasurer                         2,500.00

Mn Dept Of Transp                                      4,759.51

Mn State Dept-Correction                          13,675.43

Northwest Community Action, Inc              2,121.80

Shi Corp                                                        6,022.41

University Of Mn                                          8,112.51

Wynne Consulting, Inc                              2,000.00

Ziegler, Inc                                                    7,449.82

80 Payments less than 2000    $27,918.99

Final Total: $ 81,284.78

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                December 14, 2011   $    92,387.27

                                                December 14, 2011    $      7,773.06

                                                December 14, 2011    $    40,000.00

                                                December 22, 2011    $    14,182.83  

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

Commissioners Salary – Elected Department Heads Salary – Non-Elected Department Heads Salary – Union and Non-Union Employees Salary

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid met with the County Board and presented the following salaries to the County Board for their approval:

2011 Elected Officials & Non-Elected Department Heads Salaries

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to adopt the following County Commissioners salary schedule and County Board Chair salary schedule for the year 2012; and to adopt a committee meeting per diem of $100.00 for the year 2012.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

            Elected Officials – Commissioners:

            Ed Arnesen                                                       $  16,200.00

            Patty Beckel                                                     $  16,200.00

            Todd Beckel                                                     $  16,200.00

            Tom Hanson                                                     $  16,200.00

            Ken Moorman                                                   $  16,200.00

            Board Chair                                                      $  17,200.00

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to adopt a Technology Fee of $50.00 per month for County Commissioners for the year 2012.  (Technology fee reimbursement for county related phone, internet, computer and copy expenses.) The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to adopt the following County Elected Officials salary schedule, which includes longevity, for the year 2012.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

            Elected Officials – Department Heads:

            County Attorney           Philip Miller                $  65,000.00

            County Auditor             John W Hoscheid       $  60,008.24

            County Recorder           Susan Ney                  $  52,866.20

            County Sheriff              Dallas Block               $  68,024.06

            County Treasurer           Mark Hall                   $  52,692.20

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to adopt the following County Non-Elected Department Heads salary schedule, which includes longevity, for the year 2012.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

            Non-Elected – Department Heads:

            County Assessor            Mary Jo Otten            $  59,342.40

            County Land/Water      Josh Stromlund          $  57,798.33

            County MIS Director    Brent Birkeland          $  56,219.54

            County Public Works    Tim Erickson              $  85,030.40 

            County Social Service   Nancy Wendler          $  61,842.63

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to adopt the following County Non-Elected Department Heads salary schedule, which includes longevity, for the year 2012.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

            Non-Elected – Department Heads:

            County Veterans           Rick Rone                  $  19,216.00

Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to adopt the following County Non-Elected Department Heads salary schedule for the year 2012.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

            Non-Elected – Department Heads:

            County Emergency        Holly House               $  25,526.00

Salary Adjustment, As Agreed Upon Per Highway Union Contract

It was the consensus of the County Board to not address any adjustments for the County Highway Union employees until the Highway Union Contract has been approved.

Salary Adjustment, As Agreed Upon Per Solid Waste Union Contract

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to adopt a step adjustment for Brock Stebakken, from a Grade 10 Step 10 – $20.13, to a Grade 10 Step 11 – $20.55, to be on the same step as all other like positions in the Solid Waste Department, effective January 1, 2012. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

It was the consensus of the County Board to not address any further adjustments for the County Solid Waste Union employees until the Solid Waste Union Contract has been approved.

All Non-Union County Employees (Full-Time, Permanent Part-Time, Part-Time, Seasonal Employees) Salary Adjustment (Excluding Elected Commissioners, Elected Department Heads and Non-Elected Department Heads)

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to adopt all non-union employees: full-time, permanent part-time, part-time and seasonal (excluding elected commissioners, elected department heads and non-elected department heads) 2012 salary schedule with a 0% increase from the year 2011.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

2012 Health Insurance – County Contribution

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to set the 2012 county contribution for family health insurance up to $925.00 per month and the single health insurance up to $575.00 per month.  The Public Employees Insurance Program “Advantage Plan” consists of “High”, “Value” and “HSA” plans.  For the HSA plans only, any excess county contribution will be deposited directly into the employee’s health savings account.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, carried as follows:  For:  Commissioners Ed Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Tom Hanson and Ken Moorman; Against:  Commissioner Todd Beckel, stating that the County Board of Commissioners had made an obligation to County Employees to look into a cash option and as of today, have not completed their research on this.

Fund Balance Policy

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to adopt the Lake of the Woods County Fund Balance Policy to establish specific guidelines that the County will use to maintain an adequate level of fund balance to provide for cash flow requirements and contingency needs.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Sanford Medical Center for GCN Building

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the lease of square footage of the Government Center Building (GCN), between Lake of the Woods County and Sanford Medical Center, Thief River Falls, MN, for the term beginning the 1st day of January 2012, and continuing to and including the 31st day of December 2012, unless extended or sooner terminated.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Synergy Graphics

Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to approve the Service Agreement between Synergy Graphics and Lake of the Woods County for Ballot Layout, Ballot Printing Service and Related Services, and to authorize County Auditor, John W Hoscheid to sign the same.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Ron Michaels Consulting

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen to approve the Service Agreement with Ron Michaels Consulting Firm and Lake of the Woods County for GRM Consulting Services, effective January 1, 2012 through December 31, 2012, and authorize County Auditor, John W Hoscheid to sign the same.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

MN DOT – Lude Tower

Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to approve the Land Lease between Lake of the Woods County and the State of Minnesota Department of Transportation (MN DOT), commencing February 1, 2012, and continuing through January 31, 2022, for ARMER and other radio communications services in Lake of the Woods County, and authorize Chair Ken Moorman and County Auditor, John W Hoscheid to sign the same.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

MN Public Safety – DNR ELS

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the Contract with the State of Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Lake of the Woods County for Registration and Titling ELS Agent effective until April 30, 2015, and authorize County Auditor, John W Hoscheid to sign the same.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Economic Development Authority (EDA)

EDA Funds

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson reviewed the revenues and expenditures for the LineWorkers Facility and the Economic Development Authority for the years 2010 and 2011.  County Auditor, John W Hoscheid noted there was an additional $10,000 in revenues still to be received.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to transfer $252,338.99 to the County Revenue fund for Lineworkers Facility expenses; $15,345.03 to the County Revenue fund for EDA legal, consulting and staff expenses; and   $75,544.79 to the County Highway fund for Lineworkers Facility expenses; all transfers from the Economic Development Authority (EDA) fund.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

EDA Reappointment of Members

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

Re-Appointment of Terms of the

Lake of the Woods County Economic Development Authority Board

Resolution Number 11-12-03

Whereas; Lake of the Woods County Board, pursuant to MN Statute §469.093, Subd.1 has provided a public notice and conducted a public hearing on September 14, 2010 to consider the creation of an Economic Development Authority and adopted the Enabling Resolution creating the same; and

Whereas; the County Board of Commissioners of the County of Lake of the Woods adopted the following:

  1. The EDA shall consist of a governing body of nine (9) members, as per the adopted Enabling Resolution, of which:
    1. Five (5) Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners
    2.  Four (4) Members shall be nominated by the following organizations and appointed by the County Board:     
      1. Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to recommend appointment
      2. From either Chambers of Commerce to recommend appointment
      3. Lake of the Woods Tourism to recommend appointment
      4. City of Baudette to recommend appointment
  2. The initial Board Members and terms are established as follows:

Term Length         Board Member            Term Expires               Representing

1 Year                   Rick Rone                   12/31/2011                  City of Baudette

1 Year                   Todd Beckel               12/31/2011                  County Board

2 Year                   Chuck Tischart            12/31/2012                  IDC

2 Year                   Gregg Hennum           12/31/2012                  Tourism Board

3 Year                   Ed Arnesen                 12/31/2013                  County Board

3 Year                   Patty Beckel                12/31/2013                  County Board

4 Year                   Mike Hovde                12/31/2014                  Chamber of Commerce

5 Year                   Tom Hanson                12/31/2015                  County Board

6 Year                   Ken Moorman             12/31/2016                  County Board

Whereas; two board member’s terms will be expiring as of December 31, 2011, one representing Lake of the Woods County and the second representing the City of Baudette; and       

Now Therefore, Be It Resolved; that the County Board of Commissioners of the County of Lake of the Woods hereby appoints the following two board members for a term of 6 years;

                  Term Length         Board Member            Term Expires               Representing

                  6 Year                   Rick Rone                   12/31/2017                  City of Baudette

                  6 Year                   Todd Beckel               12/31/2017                  County Board

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

Affidavit of Lost Warrant

Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to approve the Application and Affidavit of Lost Warrant for John Olson in the amount of $42.80.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was carried unanimously.

Human Resource Director

Cell Phone Policy

Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen presented to the County Board a revised Cell Phone Policy for their review and approval.

Amendment

Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to approve the amended Cell Phone Policy as presented.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was carried unanimously.

Stipend

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to set the 2012 monthly stipend for privately owned cell phones for Smart Phones at $60.00 and the Regular Phone at $40.00.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was carried unanimously.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 9:10 a.m. and reconvened at 9:15 a.m.

Public Works Director

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the County Board for approval of final payment to KGM Contractors of Angora, MN for SP 39-070-004.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to accept the County Public Works Director’s Certificate of Final Contract Acceptance for SP 39-070-004 for KGM Contractors of Angora, MN in the total amount of $163,658.00 and hereby authorize final payment of $8,182.90.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was carried unanimously.

County Auditor

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid met with the County Board and presented the County Credit Card for approval of payment.

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen to approve the payment of the County Credit Card with Wells Fargo in the amount of $2,032.77.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was carried unanimously.

Correspondence

Correspondence was read and acknowledge from:

  • Arrowhead Library – Contact for placement on the County Board Agenda in March
  • Depot Preservation – Thank you letter for support
  • Water Sustainability – 2011 Report

County Sheriff

Stonegarden Grant

County Sheriff, Dallas Block was unable to attend the County Board meeting, therefore the Stonegarden Grant discussion will be placed on the next regular County Board meeting (January 10, 2012).  The County Board also placed Inventory on the agenda under the County Sheriff.

ATV Grant Approval

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to enter into a grant with the State of MN Department of Natural Resources for OHV/ATV activities, contingent upon County Attorney approval, in the amount of $26,622.00, effective October 1, 2011 (or the date the State obtains required signatures) and expires on June 30, 2013, and to authorize Chair Ken Moorman and the County Sheriff, Dallas Block to sign the same.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was carried unanimously.

Policies-Grants

It was the consensus of the County Board to set a policy for grants and relating expenditures.  This is to be placed on the Old/New Business for future agendas.

Committee Reports

Committee reports were heard from the following:

  • Commissioner Tom Hanson – Airport
  • Commissioner Ed Arnesen and Patty Beckel – Northwest Community Action
  • Commissioner Todd Beckel – Prevention Coalition

Old/New Business

  • Lessard –Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund – discussed
  • Land Acquisition – Wetland Credits
  • Township Road Inventory/ATV Ordinance – to be discussed and placed on a January Board Agenda
  • Inventory – to be discussed in 2012
  • Beaver –discussed, correspondence to be passed out next county board meeting
  • Clementson Bridge Property – discussed
  • CAMA – none
  • 2011 Goals and Objectives – discussion in 2012
  • 2012 Budget – none

Land and Water Planning

Consideration of Preliminary Plat – Sportsman’s Eagles LLC

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the County Board and reviewed the details of the Consideration of Preliminary Plat for Sportsman’s Eagles LLC.  Josh read the following “Findings of Facts and Decision”:

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision – Preliminary Plat

Name of Applicant:  Sportsman’s Eagle Ridge, LLC (Gregg Hennum)    Date:  12/30/11

Location/Legal Description:  Part of the Government Lot 8, Section 1, T. 167N, R. 33W (partial legal description).  The full legal description of the property is on file with the Land & Water Planning Office.

Project Proposal:  Creation of a Commercial Planned Unit Development within the shoreland area of Lake of the Woods consisting of a seven (7) lot Common Interest Community on Oak Island titled Common Interest Community Number 4, A Planned Community, Eagle Ridge

  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 proposed project is consistent with the Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Land Use Plan as follows:

Summary of values important to Lake of the Woods County

  • Individual Choice:  In the types of work and leisure to pursue, and in where to live and in the lifestyle to pursue;
  • Local Influence:  Over policy that affects the lives of county citizens;
  • Conservation:  Of the resources in the county. Those resources would be used in a way that they remain healthy for future generations; and finally,
  • Balance:  Between individual rights and the public’s welfare and between competing economic development and environmental protection objectives.

Future Land Use Plan – Goals and Policies

Goals

  • Enhance to 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.
  • Improve recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
  • Maintain and, where necessary, improve water quality.

Policies

  • Maintain the county government’s economic health through the maintenance of its tax base, and the promotion of compatible economic activity.
  • Work to enhance the tourism industry in Lake of the Woods County through recreational enhancement and promotion activities.
  • Actively manage growth to maintain the character of Lake of the Woods County, including the semi-wilderness character of the Northwest Angle and its islands.
  • Encourage future growth to occur in areas that are not environmentally sensitive, and that are already served by infrastructure; conversely, discourage growth in areas that would cause environmental problems or be expensive for the county to serve with roads and other facilities.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Compliant septic systems will be installed over 400 feet from the Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM) of Lake of the Woods. All but one cabin will be setback more than 200 feet to reduce the visibility from Lake of the Woods. Adequate vegetative buffers exist to screen neighboring properties.

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?  All structures will meet the minimum setback of 75 feet from the Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM) of Lake of the Woods. Five out of the six proposed structures will be placed in excess of 200 feet from the OHWM. Open space will be in excess of 50 percent. At least 50 percent of the shore impact zone will be left in a natural state.  Impervious surface coverage for the entire project is less than 10 percent. 

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?  The existing topography will not be adversely affected as this is an asset to the construction of the units located in the second tier of development to gain a view of the lake. The drainage features that are present on the property will not be altered as the site has adequate drainage currently. Extensive vegetative removal is not required as the applicant has indicated he wishes to keep a buffer between the units for seclusion and privacy. The only vegetative removal that is proposed is for the construction of the units and septic system.

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?  No habitable structures are to be placed within the flowage easement of 1064’ elevation of Lake of the Woods. All structures are required to be placed or elevated to an elevation greater than or equal to 1065’.

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?  Appropriate erosion control measures will be implemented during construction of the units. The direction of slope is towards Lake of the Woods; however, five out of the six proposed units are more than 200 feet from the lake and the remaining unit will be setback at a minimum of 75 feet from the lake. The topography of the area has more of a gentle slope within approximately 150 feet of the shoreline.

7. Is the site in harmony with existing and proposed access roads?        

                                                                                                                        YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?  There are no existing or proposed access roads to this property as it located on Oak Island.

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

Why or why not?  Adjacent land uses are residential however; the adjacent properties are zoned as commercial-recreational and natural environment. The past land use of this parcel of property has been of the commercial nature with two rental cabins being there for years.

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

                                                                                                                        YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Generally, resorts and/or planned unit developments are located within the shoreland area to provide accommodations for tourists or residential development.

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?  The amount of liquid waste will be comparable or similar to a residential structure. Adequate space has been identified for the placement of two standard septic systems (primary and secondary) sites according to the site evaluation that has been conducted. A standard Type 1 system is proposed for the units.

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

Why or why not?  The visibility of the structures as viewed from the public waters will not change as no vegetation removal within the shore impact zone is proposed.

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

                                                                                                                          YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  A site evaluation was conducted and concluded the site is adequate for placement of two standard on-site sewage treatment systems. The site is adequate for a water supply from a drilled well or siphoned from the lake with a filtering system to accommodate the units.

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 (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Lake of the Woods is approximately 300,000 acres in size within the county boundaries of Lake of the Woods.

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?  There will be no storage tanks for petroleum or other hazardous material associated with this 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?  Adequate vegetative screening exists to buffer the proposed project from adjacent properties.

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?  There will be no signs placed upon the property.

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?  A centrally located dock will accommodate boat traffic to and from the site. Also, the applicant has stated that the current trail, in which no easements have been granted for travel purposes, can easily be rerouted on adjacent land that is owned by the applicant to travel from one property to the other without interfering with adjacent property owners.

Additional items considered are as follows:

  1. Project proposal has one additional unit as compared to a Residential Planned Unit Development.
  2. Project proposal exceeds greater than 50% open space requirement. Open space has been calculated at approximately 80%.
  3. At least 50% of the shore impact zone (SIZ) must be preserved in its natural state. Applicant is not proposing to alter existing conditions within the SIZ.
  4.  Impervious surface coverage within any tier must not exceed 25% of the tier area requirement. This project proposal has impervious surface coverage of less than 10%.
  5. Septic system and water supply will service the six proposed units.
  6. Dwelling units are clustered into one group.
  7. Shore recreation facilities, including but not limited to swimming areas, docks, and watercraft mooring areas are centralized.
  8. Structures are located as to reduce visibility as viewed from public waters and adjacent shorelands by vegetation, topography, and increased setbacks, assuming summer leaf-on conditions. Vegetation and topographic screening must be preserved.

The specific conditions of approval are as follows:

  1. Typographical errors in the dedication are corrected.

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

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

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund relayed to the County Board that the County Planning Commission recommended approval of the Preliminary Plat – Sportsman’s Eagles LLC as presented with the single condition that the typographical errors be corrected.

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen to approve the Plat for Sportsman’s Eagles LLC as presented with the single condition that the typographical errors be corrected.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was carried unanimously.

Bernard Project Recognition Award

Recognition

Chair Ken Moorman on behalf of the County Commissioners acknowledged Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund for all of his work, dedication and commitment on the Bernard Wetland Project.

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

Certificate of Appreciation Presented To

Land & Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund

Resolution Number 11-12-04

WHEREAS; Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund, has devoted himself to the “Bernard Wetland Banking Project” for the past three years for and with Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners;

WHEREAS; Josh has committed countless hours on this project, which required him to travel frequently for meetings, along with his other job responsibilities as the  Director of the Land and Water Planning Office;

WHEREAS; this assignment was a challenging mission working with various state and federal government agencies;

WHEREAS; his accomplishment on the “Bernard Wetland Banking Project” has brought a range of financial opportunities to Lake of the Woods County;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED; that Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, would like to extend their gratitude to Josh and congratulate him on his exemplary achievement to the “Bernard Wetland Banking Project”.

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

Recognition

Chair Ken Moorman, on behalf of the County Commissioners, presented a Letter of Recognition and Appreciation to Commissioner Todd Beckel for his work on the Bernard Wetland Project and the innovative idea that created a “Win Win” project for Lake of the Woods County.

Commissioner Todd Beckel,

 We, your fellow Commissioners, would like to extend our personal sincere appreciation to you for all your efforts that you have put forth on the Bernard Land Acquisition.

Your proposal that you brought to the County Board three years ago, on purchasing the Bernard Property  to create an “Wetland Credit Bank”, was innovative and a ground breaking  idea.

Your visionary concept of selling the wetland credits will allow us to generate revenue for the County and will benefit the citizens of Lake of the Woods County; which is a WIN-WIN opportunity.

We appreciate your commitment, dedication and countless hours you spent on the “Wetland Banking Project.”

                                                        With Sincere Thanks,

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Adjourn

With no further business before the County Board for the year 2011, Chair Ken Moorman called for a motion to adjourn the 2011 County Board Meeting.

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen to adjourn the Lake of the Woods County Board Meeting for 2011.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  Chair Ken Moorman declared the 2011 County Board meeting adjourned at 10:50 a.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: January 10, 2012

_____________________________                                      _______________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                        Ken Moorman Board Chair

November, 2011

Commissioner Proceedings

November 8, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, November 8, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Chairman Moorman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Patty Beckel, Moorman, Arnesen, Todd Beckel and Hanson. Also present were: Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, and John Oren.

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the agenda with the following additions: Let-Go-Fishing thank-you letter, Investment Report, 2012 Health Insurance Rates, LineWorkers School and Fish House Trailer Permits. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made byCommissioner Patty Beckel to approve the consent agenda as follows: Craig Severs to Brainerd on November 3rd for Supervisors Conference and to Baxter on November 4th for Facilitating Agreements Training; Philip Miller to Bloomington on December 7-9 for MCAA Annual Conference; Cherie Anderson and Peggy Mosher to St. Cloud on November 14-15 for MN PictureLink Conference; Lorene Hanson to St. Paul on November 16-17 for State Auditor’s Training; Josh Stromlund to Bloomington on December 4-6 for MAWSWCD 2011 Annual Conference. .The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the minutes of October 25, 2011 regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Auditor

Claims

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson met with the board for approval of claims.

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

                                                Revenue                       $      38,201.49          

                                                Road & Bridge             $      26,011.78

                                                County Develop           $        1,547.38          

                                                Solid Waste                  $        7,723.18

                                                EDA                             $           117.27

                                                                                             73,601.10          

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 11/08/2011 For Payment 11/11/2011

Vendor Name                                               Amount         

Barrett/Russ                                               3,043.95

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                   7,497.71

Howard’s Oil Company                            2,044.24

LOW Highway Dept                                 4,651.25

LOW Marine, Inc                                       8,761.01

Michaels Consulting, Inc/Ron                 8,813.05

Woody’s Service                                       4,683.89

79 Payments less than 2000 — $34,106.00

Final Total: $73,601.10

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                October 24, 2011          $        455,495.84

                                                October 28, 2011          $          52,874.44

                                                October 28, 2011         $               385.66

                                                November 2, 2011       $        658,237.54      

                                                November 3, 2011        $       119,995.18      

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

HRDC Contract for Services

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson met with the board and requested approval to enter into a Contract for Services with Headwaters Regional Development Commission and Lake of the Woods County for the Northwest Land and Easement Negotiation. Commissioners Arnesen and Todd Beckel will talk with Executive Director, Cliff Tweedale about the expiration date of the contract and will bring back to the board.

Northwestern Counties Data Processing Security Association Joint Powers Board(NCDPSA)

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson met with the board and requested approval to enter into an audit proposal for the 2010 audit of the  NCDPSA in the amount of $2,200 paid from the NCDPSA budget.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to enter into an audit agreement with Hoffman, Dale, & Swenson, PLLC for the NCDPSA audit in the amount of $2,200 with the funds from the NCDPSA budget and authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and Chairman Moorman to sign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

SHERIFF’S OFFICE

taser guns/mgt system

County Sheriff, Dallas Block and Chief Deputy Sheriff, Terry Bandemer met with the board requesting approval to purchase Taser guns and a Management System for the Law Enforcement Center.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the purchase of a Management System Program for the Sheriff’s Department in the amount of $5,755.88 from the 911 grant. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel, and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the purchase of three (3) taser guns and supplies in the amount of $2,827.27 from the DUI Grant. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

City of Baudette Law Enforcement Request

County Sheriff, Dallas Block and Chief Deputy Sheriff, Terry Bandemer met with the board and presented a letter of request from Chief of Police, Brad Abbey, asking for the Sheriff’s office to take calls from 8:00 a.m.to 2:00 p.m., Monday thru Saturday and the majority of the day on Sundays and also take over the dispatching and secretarial duties as it was prior to August of 2008. The board requested that County Sheriff, Dallas Block and Chief Deputy Sheriff, Terry Bandemer come back in the afternoon to discuss this further.

Social services

Claims

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

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

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $ 15,379.04

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $   7,260.44

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

Purchase of Service Agreement

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board requesting an extension of the Purchase of Service Agreement between Rita Krause and Lake of the Woods County Social Services for child support consultation services.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the extension of the contract for child support consultation services between Rita Krause and Lake of the Woods County Social Services, effective as of November 18, 2011 thru May 18, 2012, or until the balance of the purchased service

contract amount has been fully utilized, whichever comes first. and to authorize Chairman Ken Moorman and Lake of the Woods County Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler, to sign same. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES- WILD LIFE MANAGER

Wild Life Manager, Scott Laudenslager met with the board to discuss the proposed Rapid River Tower Burn that is scheduled for next spring or fall. He requested permission to Burn County owned land in the NW1/4 NE ¼ of Sec. 21 twp 159 Range 30, that is adjacent to the state land. The county board gave permission to burn the county owned land.

County Auditor

Market Value Credit

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson met with the board and presented the 2011 Market Value Credit to the board.

2012 Health Insurance Rates

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson met with the board and presented the revised Health Insurance Rates from PEIP that shows no increase in rates for 2012 premiums.

Meetings: ReDesign and AMC Annual Meeting

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson met with the board and informed the board that there is a Local Government Redesign Innovation Session in Bemidji on November 10, 2011 for those who wish to attend and also the AMC annual meeting on December 4-7 in St. Paul.

DRAINAGE AUTHORITY

Pieper Farms- tiling project

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to close the regular meeting pursuant to MN Statute § 103.E and open the Ditch Authority Meeting at 10: 15 a.m. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously.

Chairman Moorman welcomed Scott Pieper, from Pieper Farms to the meeting. Scott informed the board that they are in the process of tiling some of their land and the land appraiser wouldn’t sign off on the land as being tiled until proof of a tiling permit was submitted.  Scott informed the board that he spoke with Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund and was informed that a tiling permit is not needed in Lake of the Woods County as to date, and that he would need to see the county board for the letter has to come from the Drainage Authority stating that a tiling permit is not needed.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize Chairman Moorman to sign a letter in regards to Pieper Farms tiling project stating that Lake of the Woods County does not issue tiling permits to agricultural producers, contingent upon the approval of County Attorney, Philip Miller. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel, and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to close the Drainage Authority meeting at 10:24 a.m. and reconvene the regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen, and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 10:28 a.m. and reconvened at 10:32 a.m.

EMERGENY MANAGEMENT

Emergency Management Director, Holly House and MIS Director, Brent Birkeland met with the board requesting approval to renew the Mspace Service Contract. Brent recommended the Silver Remote Maintenance and Service Prime Contract at the cost of $925. Holly informed the board that the grant is not available this year and will have to be paid some other way. Brent informed the board that the funding could come from the 2011 Maintenance and Support Account.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the renewal of the Mspace Silver Remote Maintenance and Service Prime Contract effective December 20, 2011 thru December 19, 2012 in the amount of $925 with the funding from the 2011 Maintenance and Support account. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

MIS- Computer Room Air Conditioner

The board discussed the repair bill for the broken down Air Conditioner in the Computer Room. Brent explained that the small air conditioner did not back up when the large air-conditioner failed. He explained that there was a crack in the elbow joint that leaked the coolant. The board discussed other options and asked Brent to look into having duct work installed into the computer room.

LINEWORKERS SCHOOL

The board discussed the following items that need to be purchased or resolved for the Lineworkers School:

  • Large Waste Containers
  • Shades for Class Rooms
  • New Vacuum Cleaner
  • Snow Plowing- North Star will take care of
  • Janitorial Services- EDA will be paying for January 2012
  • School Rental- send invoice to school (August thru December)

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson and Public Works Maintenance Supervisor, Jeff Pelland met with the board requesting approval to enter into an agreement with the State of Minnesota, Department of Transportation to be appointed as agent for Lake of the Woods County to accept as its agent, federal aid funds which may be made available for eligible transportation related projects.

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

Resolution No. 11-11-01

Resolution to enter into Agreement No. 00039 with the State of Minnesota, Department

Of Transportation:

BE IT RESOLVED, that pursuant to Minnesota Statute Sec. 161.36, the Commissioner of Transportation be appointed as Agent of Lake of the Woods County to accept as its agent, federal aid funds which may be made available for eligible transportation related projects.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Chairman Kenneth Moorman and County Auditor John Hoscheid are hereby authorized and directed for and on behalf of the County to execute and enter into an agreement with the Commissioner of Transportation prescribing the terms and conditions of said federal aid participation as set forth and contained in “Minnesota Department of Transportation Agency Agreement No. 00039”, a copy of which said agreement was before the County Board and which is made a part hereof by reference.

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

CORRESPONDENCE:

Thank- you letter from Let-Go-Fishing and Inventory of Investments was acknowledged.

Old/New Business

  • Lessard –Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund- none
  • Land Acquisition- Wetland Credits the end of the year
  • Red Lake Tribe- meeting on 11-14-11
  • Township Road Inventory/ATV Ordinance- none
  • Inventory- none
  • Beaver –none
  • Clementson Bridge Property- none
  • CAMA-working on more efficiencies
  • 2011 Goals and Objectives-change to 2012
  • 2012 Budget- union meeting date

FISH HOUSE TRAILER LICENSE

Commissioner Patty Beckel informed the board that that DOT is working on the issuing of permitting the resort so they can transport the fish houses on State Highways to the lake on oversized trailers. We may need to get special legislative action for this to be completed.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 12:25 p.m. and reconvened at 1:30 p.m.

SHERIFF’S OFFICE

City of Baudette Police Coverage

County Sheriff, Dallas Block and Chief Deputy Sheriff, Terry Bandemer met with the board to continue their conversation from earlier in the day in regards to the City of Baudette law enforcement coverage. The board asked the Sheriff’s Office to send a letter to the City of Baudette City Council,  requesting that they go through the proper channels and make an appointment with the county board to discuss their request.

WYNNE CONSULTING

Request to Amend Motion from 9-13-11 meeting

Chief Deputy Lorene, Hanson and County Attorney, Philip Miller met with the county board to discuss the request from Irene Wynne, Consultant with Wynne Consulting to amend the motion from September 13, 2011 for the Small Cities Program, Rehabilitation Loan.  No action was taken on her request, as County Attorney Philip Miller was not notified by Wynne Consulting on his opinion, so he will research and get back to the board at a later date with his opinion on the “ Conflict of Interest” and  on amending the motion.

Recess

With no further business before the County Board, Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to recess at 2:55 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: November 22, 2011

_____________________________                                      _______________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                        Ken Moorman, Board Chair

Commissioner Proceedings

November 22, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, November 22, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Ed Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Tom Hanson and Ken Moorman. Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Chief Deputy Auditor Lorene Hanson, Penny Mio Hirst and John Oren.

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda with the following additions: Final Contract Acceptance for Knife River Materials, St. Auditor Training Update, Minnesota Counties Rural Counties Caucus (MRCC) Survey, Northern Counties Land Use Coordinating Board (NCLUCB) update, Wells Fargo credit card approval, Salary motion approval, Travel approval for Lorene Hanson,  Travel approval for Holly House, Committee Appointment for Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILT) and Bemidji Regional Airport correspondence. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made byCommissioner Tom Hanson to approve the consent agenda as follows: Holly House on December 4-5 for AMC Conference for AMEM meeting in St. Paul and December 6 for 800 Megahertz meeting in Bemidji; Lorene Hanson on December 7-8 for Year End Paymate Training in St. Cloud.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the minutes of November 8, 2011 regular meeting with changes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Human Resources

Deputy Sheriff Position

Human Resources Director Wade Johannesen, County Sheriff Dallas Block and Chief Deputy Sheriff Terry Bandemer met with the County Board requesting to advertise for a full time Deputy Sheriff.

Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to authorize County Sheriff Dallas Block and Human Resources Director Wade Johannesen to advertise for a full time Deputy Sheriff.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Public Works Inspector II Position

Human Resources Director Wade Johannesen, Public Works Director Tim Erickson and Assistant Engineer Bill Sindelir met with the County Board requesting permission to hire for the Inspector II position.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize Public Works Director Tim Erickson and Human Resources Director Wade Johannesen to hire Boyd Johnson for the Inspector II position at a Grade 12, Step 1, effective, November 28, 2011.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Assistant Engineer Resignation Acceptance

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to accept the resignation of Assistance Engineer William (Bill) Sindelir effective February 3, 2012.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Permission to Advertise for Assistant Engineer

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen to authorize Public Works Director Tim Erickson and Human Resource Director Wade Johannesen to advertise and interview for an Assistance County Engineer.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Public Works Director

Approve Final Contract for Knife River Materials

Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to accept the County Public Works Director’s Certificate of final contract acceptance for SAP 39-605-09 & SAP 39-616-06 for Knife River Materials of Bemidji, MN in the total amount of $1,394,352.44 and hereby authorize final payment of $88,007.10.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Auditor

State Auditor Training

County Auditor John W Hoscheid gave an update on the recent State Auditor Training he attended on November 16, 2011. 

Public Works

District II State Aid Engineer Lou Tasa

District II State Aid Engineer Lou Tasa met with the County Board and gave an update on the construction and road work for the Trunk Highway 11 Project East of Baudette.  He discussed detours, time lines and the communication that would be taking place. Discussion was also had regarding the Clementson Property.

DWI Court

DWI Court Coordinator Lisa Santee and Probation Officer Joe Frenning met with the County Board to give an update on the DWI Court.  The program is now called Borderland Substance Abuse Court.  They reviewed the program implementation, objectives, usage and funding sources.  Lisa referenced the previous consensus of the County Board to commit funds towards the program and is asking for the support of $15,000 for the 2012 budget, which would be used for the probation officer and related expenses in Lake of the Woods County.  It was the consensus of the County Board to support and commit $15,000 for the program and to discuss this at the next regular scheduled county board meeting.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 10:34 a.m. and reconvened at 10:39 a.m.

Social services

Claims

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       $ 23,700.44

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $   7,491.69

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

Step Increase

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve a merit adjustment for completion of probationary period for Child Support Officer Craig Severs from Grade 11, Step 1 to Grade 11, Step 2 effective November 28, 2011.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Assessor

Office Update

County Assessor Mary Jo Otten met with the County Board and gave an office update.  She reviewed the various programs they are working with and the assessing they have been doing.  She presented an informational document on the state’s market value exclusion for their reference.  The MN Department of Revenue is scheduling a “Meet and Greet” with Mary Jo soon.

Land and Water Planning Director

FY 2012 NRBG Agreement

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize the Chair of the County Board and the Land & Water Planning Director to sign the FY 2012 State of Minnesota BWSR NRBG Agreement and Program Allocation and Contribution Plan.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

FY 2012 Program Allocation & Contribution

Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to authorize the Chair of the County Board and the Land & Water Planning Director to sign the FY 2010 BWSR NRBG Final Program Allocation and Contribution Plan.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Consideration of Application for Eagle Ridge

Land & Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund and Greg Hennum, Sportsmans Eagle Ridge LLC, met with the County Board for Consideration of the Application to Plat. The Land & Water Planning Director explained that this application had previously been accepted, however due to the time frame of the original approval, this needed to be resubmitted for acceptance.  The application remains the same as previously submitted.  If accepted, the Planning Commission will meet on December 14, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen to accept the submitted application by Sportsman’s Eagle Ridge LLC which would begin the platting process for the proposed Common Interest Community No.4 a Planned Community Eagle Ridge.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Wetland Bank

Land & Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund updated the County Board on the Bernard Wetland Bank.  He presented a draft letter, addressed to the Army Corp of Engineers, for the County Board to discuss and review.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel authorizing the County Board Chair to sign and send the letter as presented to the Army Corp of Engineers.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Auditor

Claims

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid met with the County Board for approval of claims.

Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                                Revenue                       $       23,907.10         

                                                Road & Bridge             $        2,521.07

                                                County Develop           $           395.50          

                                                Solid Waste                  $      20,797.66

                                                EDA                             $        4,792.61

                                                                                     $      52,413.94          

            WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 11/22/2011 For Payment 11/25/2011

Vendor Name                                               Amount

Hasler                                                         4,000.00

Mar-Kit Landfill                                          9,088.20

North East Technical Service,Inc            3,191.48

Northwest Community Action, Inc           3,021.26

Olson/George                                         10,400.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                  3,751.60

60 Payments less than 2000 — 18,961.40

Final Total: $52,413.94

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                November 10, 2011        $       15,298.67

                                                November 18, 2011        $       16,865.97      

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

Headwaters Regional Development (HRDC) Contract for Services

County Auditor John W Hoscheid met with the County Board and requested approval to enter into a Contract for Services with Headwaters Regional Development Commission and Lake of the Woods County for the Northwest Land and Easement Negotiation.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to enter into a Contract for Services with Headwaters Regional Development Commission (HRDC) and Lake of the Woods County for the Northwest Land and Easement Negotiation (effective 1/15/2011 through the amended date of 3/31/2012); and to further authorize County Board Chair to sign the same, contingent upon approval of the County Attorney.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Credit Card

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the payment of the Wells Fargo Credit Card for the County.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

2012 Salaries Motion

The County Board reviewed the motions for salaries for 2012.  It was the consensus to place this on the next regular scheduled county board meeting.

Minnesota Rural Counties Caucus (MRCC)

County Auditor John W Hoscheid presented a survey from Minnesota Rural Counties Caucus (MRCC) to be completed by the County Board.

Northern Land Use Coordinating Board (NLUCB)

County Auditor John W Hoscheid presented correspondence from Northern Land Use Coordinating Board for the County Board to review.

Association of MN Counties (AMC)

Committee Appointment

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to appoint Commissioner Todd Beckel to the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) Advisory Committee for the Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC).  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

CORRESPONDENCE:

Correspondence was read and acknowledged from:

  • Minnesota Pollution Control Agency:  FY12 Score Block Grant
  • Bemidji Regional Airport: MN Dept of Transportation Office of Aeronautics Presentation

Old/New Business

  • Lessard –Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund- none
  • Land Acquisition – Wetland Bank/Credits  
  • Red Lake Tribe – update
  • Township Road Inventory/ATV Ordinance – none
  • Inventory – none
  • Beaver – none
  • Clementson Bridge Property – discussed
  • CAMA – discussed
  • 2011 Goals and Objectives – none
  • 2012 Budget – discussed Truth n Taxation (TnT) meeting date and time

Recess

With no further business before the County Board, Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to recess at 12:40 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: December 13, 2011

_____________________________                                      _______________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                        Ken Moorman, Board Chair

October, 2011

Commissioner Proceedings

October 11, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, October 11, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Chairman Moorman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Moorman, Arnesen and Hanson. Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, Jon Oren and Penny Mio Hirst.

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the agenda with the following additions: “In Car Camera” policy. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

None

Approval of Minutes

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the minutes of September 27, 2011 regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Amendment to agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to amend the agenda for today and add: Non-elected department heads job evaluation minutes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Lake of the Woods Prevention Coalition

Prevention Coalition Director, Tammy Doebler and Prevention Coalition Assistant Joyce Washburn met with the board and requested approval for the first quarter fiscal report.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to authorize Chairman Moorman and Financial Director Christine Hultman to sign the first quarter fiscal report. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Social services

Claims

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       $   9,261.79

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $   9,405.74

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

MN Care Contract

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board requesting approval for the MinnestoatCare Contract renewal.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the contract between the State of Minnesota and Lake of the Woods County Social Services effective 07/01/11 through 06/30/13, for Lake of the Woods County Social Services to process MinnesotaCare applications at $30.00/eligibility determination, and to authorize Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler, and Chairman Kenneth Moorman to sign same. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

2012-2013 MFIP/VCA Biennial Service Agreement

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board requesting approval for the Biennial Service Agreement for 2012-2013 for the Minnesota Family Investment Program and Vulnerable Children and Adults Service Plans (MFIP/VCA).

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the Lake of the Woods County Social Services Minnesota Family Investment Program and Vulnerable Children and Adults Service Plans (MFIP/VCA) Biennial Service Agreement for 2012/2013. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

2012 Adult Mental Health Grant

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board requesting approval to the 2012 Adult Mental Health Grant.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the Lake of the Woods County Social Services Adult Mental Health Grant for CY2012. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson, and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Internal Lice Protocol

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler informed the board that she has adopted an internal Lice Protocol for her departments use.

Sheriff’s Office

City of Baudette Patrol Coverage

County Sheriff, Dallas Block, Deputy Sheriff, Gary Fish, City of Police Chief, Brad Abbey, City of Baudette Mayor, Rick Rone and Council Member, Joel Hanson met with the board to discuss the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s office to assist with City Patrolling hours. The board set a Joint meeting with the City of Baudette Council and Lake of the Woods County Board on October 14, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Room.

JT Powers Agreement with BCA

County Sheriff, Dallas Block, met with the board and requested approval for a Joint Powers Agreement with the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) for a term of five years for access to the Minnesota Criminal Justice Data Communications network.

Resolution

APPROVING STATE OF MINNESOTA JOINT POWERS AGREEMENTS WITH THE COUNTY OF Lake of the Woods ON BEHALF OF ITS COUNTY ATTORNEY AND SHERIFF

RESOLUTION NO. 11-10-01

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

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 County Board of Lake of the Woods, Minnesota as 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 on behalf of its County Attorney and Sheriff are hereby approved.  Copies of the two Joint Powers Agreements are attached to this Resolution and made a part of it.
  2. That the Chief Deputy Sheriff, Terry Bandemer, or his or her 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. To assist the Authorized Representative with the administration of the agreement, Julie Berggren, Administrative Assistant is appointed as the Authorized Representative’s designee.
  3. That Lake of the Woods County Legal Secretary, Dena Pieper, or his or her 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 Kenneth Moorman the Chair of the County, County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and Dallas Block, County Sheriff are authorized to sign the State of Minnesota Joint Powers Agreements.

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

In Car Camera Policy

The board asked County Sheriff, Dallas Block if his office had an “In Car Camera” policy. County Sheriff, Dallas Block said that he would look into this, but he thought that policy was covered under the Lexi Pool Policy.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 10:10 a.m. and reconvened at 10:15 a.m. as follows:

Public Works Department

The board requested that Public Works Director, Tim Erickson meet with the board to discuss Claim No. 89 that was pulled for payment from the last board meeting. The board requested that he submit a new claim for payment.

Wynne Consulting

John Wynne, from Wynne Consulting met with the board to discuss a Small Cities Development Grant program which is awarded through the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). This grant is available for use outside the city limits in the county. John informed the board that Wynne Consulting would proved all of the necessary services to prepare and submit the required application material for the grant in the amount of $2,000 for the pre-application and $1,500 for the final application if accepted.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve Wynne Consulting proposal to prepare and submit the required material for the Small Cities Development Grant in the amount of $2,000 for the pre-application with the funds from the Economic Development Fund. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

City of Williams

The board reviewed the request for funds for the City of Williams to purchase new playground equipment for the City Park in the amount of $20,000. The board felt that this request was late as they are approving the Con-Con funding today and would recommend the City of Williams pursue grant funds for this project, with matching funding options if needed. The board filed this requested in the 2012 Con- Con funds file for next year’s consideration.

County Auditor

Claims

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

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

                                                Revenue                       $      48,381.59          

                                                Road & Bridge             $      81,119.14

                                                County Develop           $        3,649.77          

                                                Solid Waste                  $      8,398.087

                                                EDA                             $        3,370.70

                                                                                     $    144,919.27

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 10/11/2011 For Payment 10/14/2011

Vendor Name                                                   Amount

Arnesen/Ed                                                   6,312.78

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                      6,527.37

Dynamic Imaging Systems, Inc                  3,287.33

Frohreich & Mollberg Const Inc                 3,118.68

Howard’s Oil Company                               5,430.16

LOW Highway Dept                                     3,044.39

Mn Municipal Utilities Assoc                       3,725.00

Northwest Mn Multi-County Hra                  5,000.00

Pro-West & Associates, Inc                         2,671.88

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                     2,316.95

Strata Corp, Inc                                            5,337.68

Titan Machinery                                           3,531.21

Traffic Marking Service, Inc.                     38,302.27

University Of Mn                                          8,983.04

Voyageurs Comtronics, Inc                        2,736.06

Watch Guard Video                                    3,020.00

Widseth Smith Nolting&Asst Inc                3,412.57

Woody’s Service                                        11,441.65

70 Payments less than 2000 $26,720.25

Final Total: $144,919.27

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                September 28, 2011     $        26,343.61

                                                October 6, 2011            $          1,120.00

                                                October 6, 2011            $              770.01

                                                October 6, 2011           $           8,354.11

                                                October 6, 2011           $       436,129.42       

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

Con- Con Funding Request

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and presented and requested approval for the 2012 County Development allocation that the board discussed and appropriated at the September 27, 2011 board meeting.                 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to make the following allocations to the organizations listed from the Con-Con funds, payable 2012.

Lake of the Woods County

County Development

Year 2012

Anchor Marketing                                           15,000.00

Auditing Fees                                                      800.00

Baudette Arena Assoc                                                15,000.00

JP Natural Resources Board                             1,000.00

LOW Historical Society                                 12,500.00

LOW Humane Society                                     1,000.00

LOW Sr. Fishing (LOW Chapter)                    1,500.00

NWA-Chamber                                                    500.00

Pequana Playhouse                                              500.00

Rinke-Noonan-Retainer-Drainage                    2,400.00

St. Louis County Aud-(NCLUCB)                  2,000.00

Take A Kid Fishing                                             600.00

University of MN Extension                            2,000.00

Widseth Smith Nolting                                   16,000.00

Williams Arena Association                              5,000.00

    Williams Public Library                                       500.00                                                                                                                                76,300.00   

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

Proposed 2012 Budget and Tax Levy

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid presented the Proposed 2012 Budget and Tax Levy to the board. John informed the board they need to approve line item fund balances on the Proposed Budget and Tax Levy as those totals are needed for the Truth N Taxation statements.

Resolution Adopting

Proposed 2012 Budget and Tax Levy

Resolution   2011-10-02

The following Resolution was proposed and moved for adoption by Commissioner Todd Beckel:

WHEREAS, the Proposed County Budget for the year 2012 has been reviewed by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners; and

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the following Proposed Budget and Tax Levy is hereby adopted for the Lake of the Woods County for 2012:

Revenue Fund                                               $ 1,275,088

Road & Bridge Fund                                    $    449,580

Social Services Fund                                     $    603,935

Economic Development Authority Fund    $      60,000

2012 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy         $ 2,388,603             

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the following amounts be levied against the unorganized townships of Lake of the Woods County for 2012:

                        Twp Road & Bridge                                     $   425,175*

                        Twp Fire – Baudette                                      $     21,000

                        Twp Fire – Williams                                      $     27,282

                        Twp Fire – NW Angle                                   $       6,500

                        Total                                                               $   479,957

2012                

* $425,175 for Township Road & Bridge includes $10,000 which is specifically levied to Northwest Angle residents for Calcium Chloride.  (415,175+10,000=425,175)

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

Affordable Housing/Loan Committee

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and informed the board of the vacant position on the Affordable Housing/Loan Committee due to the retirement of former County Assessor, Wayne Bendickson, and requested that the board appoint MaryJo Otten to the Affordable Housing/Loan Committee.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to appoint MaryJo Otten to the Lake of the Woods Affordable Housing/Loan Committee. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried

Northwest Minnesota Fraternal Order of Police

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid requested approval from the board for a gambling permit for Northwest MN Fraternal Order of Police, which will be held at Sportsman’s Lodge on February 27, 2012.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the exempt gambling permit for the Fraternal Order of Police NW MN Lodge #8 to conduct a lawful gambling for a raffle on February 27, 2012 at Sportsman’s Lodge and authorize County Auditor to sign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Affordable Housing Fund

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and presented a Summary of Accounts for the Affordable Housing Funds (Community Seconds) for 2011.

Tax Levy information- proposed market value exclusion

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and reviewed the proposed county tax levy numbers for Truth N Taxation, which includes the proposed market value exclusion.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 11:40 a.m. and reconvened at 11:55 a.m. as follows:

CORRESPONDENCE:

Inventory of Investments was reviewed.

DEPARTMENT HEAD EVALUATION- 2011

On the below listed dates, Lake of the Woods County Department Heads received their annual Employee Performance Appraisal by the County Board.

September 22, 2011

Roderick (Rick) Rone, Veteran’s Service Officer, was evaluated and received a favorable rating.  Rick will look to improving services for County Veterans while he endeavors to holding down costs for transportation.  Rick will apply for grants available to his office and will provide a quarterly activity report to the Commissioners.  Rick will finalize his office policy which is currently in draft.  Improved attendance at Department Head meetings is also a goal.  Rick must maintain his annual certification.

Timothy (Tim) Erickson, Public Works Director, was evaluated and received a favorable rating.  Tim will stay abreast of ever-changing state requirements while maintaining county compliance.  Tim will write an ATV ordinance and will pay close attention to his budget looking for ways to reduce spending.  Tim will pursue the status of the Clementson park property and will look to realigning staff and reviewing compensatory time policy.  He will renew his license in June 2012. 

Brent Birkeland, Manager of Information Systems, was evaluated and received a favorable rating.  Brent will continue to stay abreast of required and optional programs that will ensure county compliance and provide the optimum operational capabilities at a reasonable cost.  Brent will pursue a new phone system for the county and will stay abreast of technologies to increase band width to the county.

Nancy Wendler, Social Services Director, was evaluated and received a favorable rating.  Nancy will continue to manage her department budget to adjust for reductions in revenue.  She will seek out cost effective and innovative options to reduce out of home placement costs and continue delivery of the full range of services despite reductions in funding.  Nancy will work with outside providers to ensure quality delivery of services and will work with her staff to maintain the cohesive team currently in place.  She will attend training, webinars and ITV sessions to keep current on legislative changes and DHS requirements.

September 27, 2011

Joshus (Josh) Stromlund, Land and Water Planning Director, was evaluated and received a favorable rating.  Josh will endeavor to receive final DNR approval for the Bernard property wetland credits.    Josh will also keep abreast of all changing regulations pertaining to county land use and the economic/environmental implications of the changes.

Hollace (Holly) House Emergency Management Director was evaluated and received a favorable rating.  Holly will strive to hold monthly meetings with local emergency response groups and will provide guidance as to regulatory changes as well as for use of ARMER system (800 MHz) by coordinating training provided by regional partners.  Holly will also maintain her certification by completing a minimum of eight hours of continuing education.

MaryJo Otten, the recently hired County Assessor will receive her evaluation on the end of her six month probation (January 2012).  

Old/New Business

  • Lessard –Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund- Northern MN to receive more funding
  • Land Acquisition- working on
  • Red Lake Tribe-waiting for meeting date
  • Township Road Inventory/ATV Ordinance- none
  • Line Workers School -remove
  • Inventory- needs to get done
  • Beaver -none
  • Clementson Bridge Property- Tim is working on
  • CAMA-none
  • 2011 Goals and Objectives-none
  • 2012 Budget- Budget meeting date of October 18, 2011 at 10:00 a.m.

Committee Reports

Commissioner Todd Beckel handed out packets on the following:

  • MN Rural Counties Caucus
    • Rural County Leaders- letter to Legislature to reinstate property tax credit
    • MN State budget Presentation
  • February 2011 State Revenues above projection

Recess

With no further business before the County Board, Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to recess at 12:20 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: October 25, 2011

_____________________________                                      _______________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                        Ken Moorman, Board Chair

Commissioner Proceedings

Special County Board Meeting

October 18, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in special session on Tuesday, October 18, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center.

Call to Order

Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present:  Commissioners Ed Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Tom Hanson and Ken Moorman.  Also present was County Auditor John W Hoscheid. 

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda for the special meeting today with an addition of the LineWorkers Facility.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

2012 Salaries

The County Board discussed salary options for 2012.  

2012 Levy

The County Board discussed the levy for 2012 and it was the consensus to leave the levy at 5%.

Efficiencies

The County Board discussed efficiencies within the county and various departments.

Union

The County Board discussed various options for union negotiations for the year 2012.  A union negotiation committee meeting was scheduled for Thursday, October 20, 2011.

LineWorkers Facility

The County Board discussed the grading of the parking lot at the LineWorkers Facility.  It was the consensus of the County Board to have the Public Works Department grade the parking lot at the LineWorkers Facility and to bill the Economic Development Authority (EDA) accordingly.

Recess

There being no further business before the County Board, Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to recess at 12:05 p.m.

Attest:                                                             Approved:  10-25-11

______________________________            ___________________________________

John W Hoscheid                                          Ken Moorman

County Auditor                                             County Board Chair

September, 2011

Commissioner Proceedings

September 13, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, September 13, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Moorman, Arnesen and Hanson. Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd and Penny Mio Hirst.

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the agenda with the following additions: Non-Elected Department Heads job evaluation dates, Lake of the Woods County Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee, Prosper Cemetery, Inventory of Investments, MRCC annual meeting and MCIT workshop. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd  Beckel to approve the consent agenda as follows: for Dessa Brunette on November 29 thru December 1, 2011 for DHS Training for New Workers on SSIS System at Brainerd; Boyd Johnson on September 28-30 for Right of Way Professional Workshop at Breezy Point and on October 5-7 for MN GIS/LIS 2011 Conference in St. Cloud; Brent Birkeland on October 5-7 for MN GIS/LIS 2011 Conference in St. Cloud; Josh Stromlund on October 5-7 for MACPZA Conference in Bemidji;   The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the minutes of August 23, 2011 regular meeting and August 30, 2011 special meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Department Heads

County Assesor, Mary Jo Otten, County Recorder, Susan Ney, Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler, County Treasurer, Mark Hall, MIS Director, Brent Birkeland, County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board to discuss the 2012 Budget and Levy.  They discussed the elimination in the 2012 state homestead credit, with the state replacing the credit with the Homestead Market Value Exclusion and the impact that it will have on all the Counties in the State.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 10:08 a.m. and reconvened at 10:13 a.m. as follows:

Social services

Claims

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       $   13,308.74

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $   14,950.94

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

Step Increase

Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board to discuss a step increase for Dessa Brunette for completion of her probationary period which is effective on September 21, 2011.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve a merit adjustment for completion of probation period for Social Worker Dessa Brunette from Grade 12, step 1 to Grade 12, step 2 effective October 2, 2011. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

MN Care Contract

Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board and informed them that she will be renewing the contract with MN Care, but when the contract comes to the board the date will be retroactive to July 1, 2011.

Wynne Consulting

Irene Wynne, Consultant with Wynne Consulting met with the board to inform them that a couple has applied for the Small Cities Program, Rehabilitation Loan.  Guidelines require if there is a possible conflict of interest that the county board needs to give an “exception” for the applicants to receive the loan. Irene informed the board that Wynne Consulting does not see that there is a conflict of interest with the applicants.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to make an exception for the applicants to receive the rehabilitation loan from the recommendation from Wynne Consulting; and that the board does not feel that there is any conflict of interest from the applicants. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Public Works Department

Consideration of Vacating Right- of Way

Motion

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson and Attorney, Steve Anderson met with the board to discuss vacating a County Right-Of –Way for Russell Mohawk on a non-conforming cabin that does not meet the required setback of 75 feet from the Ordinary High Water. No board action was taken.

Building and Grounds Maintenance

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and requested approval for carpets to be cleaned in the Social Service Department in the amount of $500. The consensus of the board was to have the carpets cleaned and also see if the main traffic area in the Revenue Department could be done at the same time.  The board also requested that Tim check to see what is wrong with the carpet cleaner that the county owns.

Williams Shop

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting approval to purchase a new garage door and opener for the Williams Shop. Tim informed the board that a new garage door, opener and labor would cost $7,000.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize the Public Works Director to purchase a new garage door and opener for the Williams Shop in the amount of $7,000, which includes labor.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Construction Update

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and gave an update on the following construction projects:

  • Overlay project complete, waiting on paperwork and the project came in under $3,000.
  • Safety project complete, and came in under $3,600.
  • Bike Paths dirt work almost done and hope to tar yet this week.

County Auditor

Claims

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

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

                                                Revenue                       $   104,602.19           

                                                Road & Bridge             $     58,592.78

                                                County Develop           $       2,567.85           

                                                Solid Waste                  $     25,461.56

                                                EDA                             $      14,832.86

                                                                                        $ 206,057.24          

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 9/13/2011 For Payment 9/16/2011

Vendor Name                                   Amount

Achen/Brian                                                  2,080.00

Braun Intertec Corporation                         4,550.50

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                    13,205.39

Hasler                                                            4,000.00

Holte Implement, Inc                                    4,256.46

Howard’s Oil Company                               4,659.57

Lake Area Construction Inc                         6,975.00

Lavalla Sand & Gravel Inc                           4,300.00

LOW Highway Dept                                     3,680.00

Mar-Kit Landfill                                           13,336.20

Olson/George                                           16,600.00

Pirkl Lumber & Carpet                                  5,388.31

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                    4,400.73

Roseau County Cooperative Assn             2,069.27

Sjoberg’s Inc                                              62,264.83

Strata Corp, Inc                                            5,146.58

Widseth Smith Nolting&Asst Inc               3,201.18

Woody’s Service                                        13,311.79

Ziegler, Inc                                                    4,030.02

70 Payments less than 2000 $28,601.41

Final Total: $206057.24

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                August 26, 2011        $          43,134.18

                                                September 1, 2011     $               240.23

                                                September 1, 2011     $     1,622,663.08

                                                September 2, 2011     $              (23.60)

                                                September 9, 2011     $        244,069.45

                                                September 10, 2011   $        121,212.81

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

CPA and 2010 Census

County Auditor John W. Hoscheid met with the board to review the 2012 CPA and the 2010 Census reports.

Affidavit of lost Warrant

County Auditor John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval for a lost warrant.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the application and affidavit for lost warrant for William Hill dated April 29, 2011 for $88.20 without furnishing indemnifying bond. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Depot Preservation Alliance

County Auditor John W. Hoscheid presented a letter of request from the Depot Preservation Alliance requesting that the county issue the remaining $22,000 of the loan that was approved by the board for the Depot in 2007. No action was taken and requested that County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid contact the Depot Board members requesting them to meet with them at the next board meeting.

T NT Meeting

County Auditor John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting that the board set a public hearing for the 2012 TNT – Levy and Budget meeting.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to set a public hearing for the 2012 Truth in Taxation Budget Levy Meeting on December 13, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 11:40 a.m. and reconvened at 11:45 a.m. as follows:

2012 Budget Report

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board to review the proposed 2012 Budget Report.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 12: 12 p.m. and reconvened at 1:15 p.m. as follows:

2010 audit exit interview

Colleen Hoffman, from Hoffman, Dale and Swenson LLC met with the board to review the 2010 Audit. Colleen informed the board that she had no concerns on the audit and everything was incompliance.

Lake of the Woods Criminal Justice Coordinating COMMITTEE (CJCC)

Commissioner Patty Beckel informed the board that the CJCC will be meeting monthly and needs to have a Commissioner appointed to this committee.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to appoint Commissioner Patty Beckel to serve on the CJCC. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Prosper Cemetery

Commissioner Patty Beckel handed out an article that was drafted by Marjorie Broten on the grave sites that are located at the Prosper Cemetery.

Non – Elected Department Head Evaluation dates

The board set September 22, 2011 at 8:00 a.m. for job evaluations for the Non-Elected Department Heads.

CORRESPONDENCE:

Correspondence was read and acknowledged from:

  • MRCC- Legislative Session Summary
  • Inventory of Investments
  • MRCC- Annual Conference
  • MCIT Work Shop

Old/New Business

No updates

Committee Reports

No updates

2012 County Budget

The County Board discussed and reviewed the 2012 County Budget.

Adoption of the Proposed 2012 Budget and Tax Levy

Resolution Adopting

Proposed 2012 Budget and Tax Levy

Resolution   2011-09-01

The following Resolution was proposed and moved for adoption by Commissioner Todd Beckel:

WHEREAS, the Proposed County Budget for the year 2012 has been reviewed by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners; and

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the following Proposed Budget and Tax Levy is hereby adopted for the Lake of the Woods County for 2012:

                        2012 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy         $ 2,388,603             

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the following amounts be levied against the unorganized townships of Lake of the Woods County for 2012:

                        Twp Road & Bridge                                     $   425,175*

                        Twp Fire – Baudette                                      $     21,000

                        Twp Fire – Williams                                      $     27,282

                        Twp Fire – NW Angle                                   $       6,500

                        Total                                                               $   479,957

2012                

$425,175 for Township Road & Bridge includes $10,000 which is specifically levied to Northwest Angle residents for Calcium Chloride.  (415,175+10,000=425,175)

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

Recess

With no further business before the County Board, Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to recess at 4:25 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: September 27, 2011

_____________________________                                      _______________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                        Ken Moorman, Board Chair

Commissioner Proceedings

September 27, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, September 27, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Chairman Moorman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Moorman, Arnesen and Hanson. Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd and Penny Mio Hirst.

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda with the following additions: Travel for Public Works department, Credit Card bill, Land Surveyor, MRCC Annual Business meeting and Fish House trailers. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty  Beckel to approve the consent agenda as follows:  Travel for Christie Russell to St. Cloud on October 17-18 for MN Department of Health Annual Vitals Training; Tim Erickson to Detroit Lakes on October 5-6 for Joint District Meeting;  Josh  Stromlund to St. Paul on September 28-29 for Local Government Roundtable Advisory Committee;  Craig Severs  to the following: October 3 – 5,Legal Process – Establishment / Paternity, (St. Paul),October 10-11,Locate Workshop, session 1, (Brainerd) October 17 – 18 Legal Process Part 2, (St. Paul),October 24 – 26,Intergovernmental 201, 203, 204, (St. Paul), November 7 – 9,Enforcement Intermediate, (St. Paul); Lee Hancock, Todd Fadness, Jeff Pelland, Tim Aery Doug Wyatt and Barry Bailey to NWA on September 26-28 for ditch work maintenance.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the minutes of September 13, 2011 regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Social services

Claims

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       $   21,759.68

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $     8,548.27

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

County Auditor

Claims

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

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to pull claim number 89 for further discussion. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

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

                                                Revenue                       $      55,555.17          

                                                Road & Bridge             $       5,965.76

                                                County Develop           $          782.92           

                                                Solid Waste                  $       7,382.89

                                                EDA                             $        6,308.72

                                                                                     $      76,395.46          

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 9/27/2011 for Payment 9/30/2011

Vendor Name                                                            Amount

Anchor Marketing, Inc                                                 3,715.68

Arrowhead Library System                                        36,798.00

Burg Electronic Recovery                                           5,032.80

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                      2,514.13

Hoffman, Dale, & Swenson, Pllc                              11,053.00

Northwest Community Action, Inc                              2,593.04

52 Payments less than 2000 $14,688.81

Final Total: $76,395.46

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                September 14, 2011     $        28,769.13

                                                September 21, 2011     $        30,028.79

                                                September 23, 2011     $      131,486.05

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

Con- Con Funding Request

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board to review the request for funding from the Con-Con Fund. No action was taken and was placed on October 11, 2011 meeting.

Line workers School

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid presented the Line Workers Facility costs to the board for their review. The consensus of the board was to except the motion from the Economic Development Authority to pay all bills (09-26-11 EDA Meeting) and reimburse and transfer funds from the EDA fund to the Revenue fund in the amount of $254,186.18 and further transfer funds from the County Development fund to the Revenue fund in the amount of $2,850.00 and authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to transfer the funds.

Land Leases

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid presented the County Land Lease Agreements to the board for their approval.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the following Land Lease Agreements effective January 1, 2012 through December 31, 2012:

SW ¼ SW ¼, S-22, T-163-N, R-34-W – 40 Acres

NW ¼ NW ¼, S-27, T-163-N, R-34-W – 40 Acres

NE ¼ SE ¼, S-28, T-163-N, R-34-W – 40 Acres

N ½ NE ¼, SW ¼ NE ¼, S-28, T-163-N, R-34-W – 108 Acres

The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the vote carried as follows: Voting for:

Commissioners Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Hanson and Moorman.  Abstaining: Commissioner Arnesen.

Health Insurance

County Auditor John W. Hoscheid informed the board that the County Insurance Committee met and recommends that the county board consider investigating a “Cash” option plan to employees.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to contact Darcie Hitesman, from Hitesman & Wold P.A., to assist the board with exploring a “Cash Option” plan for county health insurance, and approves the expenditures up to $3,000 for their assistance.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Satisfaction of Repayment Agreement

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and requested approval to file a Satisfaction of Repayment Agreement and Satisfaction of Mortgage dated November 6, 1996.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize Chairman Moorman and County Auditor John W. Hoscheid to sign the Satisfaction of the Repayment Agreement and Satisfaction of Mortgage dated November 6, 1996 for John C. Otto, a single person, Donald Senkyr and Judith Senkyr, husband and wife, and Jackie Senkyr, a single person. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Affidavit for Lost Warrant

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval for a lost warrant for Ryan Hockstedler.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the application and affidavit for lost warrant for Ryan Hockstedler dated April 15, 2011 for $86.45 without furnishing indemnifying bond. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Credit Card Payment Approval

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval for the Credit Card bill that was just received.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the county credit card statement and authorize payment in the amount of $ $2,682.63. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Mrcc Annual meeting

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid, met with the board and informed them that MRCC Annual Board of Directors Meeting will be held on October 10, 2011 at Thumper Pond Resort and Conference Center in Ottertail, MN for those who would like to attend.

Land Surveyor

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and presented a letter from Northern Engineering & Consulting, Inc. (NECI) for contracting services with NECI.  The board reviewed the letter and discussed that a Request for Proposal may be sent out in February of 2012.

Human Resources Contract Renewal

Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen met with the board requesting renewal of his Human Resource Contract with the county.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to renew the professional service contract with Wade Johannesen to provide Human Resources for Lake of the Woods County, commencing October 22, 2011 and terminating April 23, 2012 and authorize Chairman Moorman, County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and County Attorney, Philip Miller to sign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the vote carried as follows: Voting for: Commissioner’s Patty Beckel, Hanson, Moorman and Arnesen. Voting against: Commissioner Todd Beckel.

Depot Preservation Alliance

Depot Preservation Alliance board member, Joann Kellner met with the board to discuss the Depot Preservation Alliance letter requesting that the county issue the remaining $22,000 of the loan to complete the paper work with MnDOT. (This would be the 20% match to their $125,000 grant that they received from MnDOT and the county board approved the 20% match in 2007).  The board will discuss this later in the day.

BAUDETTE/LOW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Karoline Ketchum and Mike Hovde, representing the Baudette/LOW Chamber of Commerce met with the board requesting $500 for Frost Fest, plus any additional donations to help with the purchase of LED lights for the Community Christmas tree.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to contribute $900 from the Revenue Fund to the 2011 Frost Fest. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was, unanimously carried.

Lutheran Social Services

Assistant Director, Cindy Christopherson from Lutheran Social Services met with the board and presented the 2010 Annual Report.

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

Bill Sindelir, Assistant County Engineer met with the board requesting authorization to sell the 2001 Chevrolet Suburban.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize the Public Works Director to sell by sealed bids the following used equipment:

  • (1) 2001 Chevrolet Suburban

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

Land and Water Planning

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board to consider amendments to Article XII of the Lake of the Woods Zoning Ordinance. He informed the board that the proposed amendments will merge the Board of Adjustment and establish a Planning Commission into a single body which will include additional members as allowed by Minnesota Statute § 394 and that the amendments will also include language in regards to variances to be consistent with recent legislative changes.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the amendments to Article XII as presented with an effective date of October 31, 2011. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Lake of the woods/Baudette airport

The board discussed the Federal Aviation Grant that was awarded to the Baudette/Lake of the Woods Airport.

Depot Preservation Alliance

The board discussed the Depot Preservation Alliance request of funds in the amount of $22,000 for the 20% the county board approved in 2007 to match the $125,000 grant that they received from MnDOT.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to release the encumbered amount of $22,000 out of reserves for the 20% match for the grant that the Depot Preservation Alliance was granted back in 2007 and to encumber up to 7,200 from the 2011 Con-Con funds for the completion of concrete work. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 12:06 p.m. and reconvened at 1:10 p.m. as follows:

Non-Elected Department Heads Evaluation- continuation

Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen and Commissioners Moorman, Hanson, Patty Beckel, Arnesen and Todd Beckel continued with Non-elected Department Heads evaluations. Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund and Emergency Manager Director Holly House met with the board individual.

CORRESPONDENCE:

Army Corps of Engineer letter was reviewed.

Old/New Business

No updates

Committee Reports

No updates

Recess

With no further business before the County Board, Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to recess at 3:15 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: October 11, 2011

_____________________________                                      _______________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                        Ken Moorman, Board Chair

August, 2011

Commissioner Proceedings

August 9, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, August 9, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Chairman Moorman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners:  Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Moorman, Arnesen, and Hanson. Also present were: Chief Deputy Auditor Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, Penny Mio Hirst and John Oren.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the agenda with the following additions: MN DOT contract change order, NWA request of funds, and NW Juvenile Center Report. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Jodi Ferrier to Duluth on October 10-11- for CP and LSW Licensure; MaryJO Otten to Grand Rapids on October 17-21 for Pace Course Training and on October 9-12 for MAAO Conference; Tim Erickson to Bemidji for Annual County Engineer’s Seminar with State Engineers in District 3 on September 7-8; Shelley Pepera to St. Cloud on August 21-22 for SSIS Statewide Mentor Meeting.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the minutes of July 26, 2011 regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Social services

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

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

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $  8,608.74

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $  9,258.04

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

County Auditor

Claims

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson met with the County Board for approval of claims.

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

                                                Revenue                       $  68,829.15  

                                                Road & Bridge            $  81,093.47

                                                County Develop            $     539.00   

                                                Solid Waste                   $21,081.71_

                                                                                     $171,543.33  

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 8/09/2011 For Payment 8/12/2011

Vendor Name                                      Amount

Border Ridge Trucking Inc              30,442.30

Bullberry Systems, Inc                        2,190.00

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.              8,157.31

Deputy Registrar No.75                      4,807.33

Howard’s Oil Company                     5,821.84

LOW Highway Dept                            2,169.19

LOW Soil & Water Cons. Dist.         19,334.00

Mar-Kit Landfill                                  11,240.55

Moorman/Kenneth                              2,027.09

Noble Radio Shack                            2,800.45

Norling Construction, Inc/Adam     24,566.37

R & Q Trucking, Inc                          12,414.50

Solarwinds                                         2,094.00

Strata Corp, Inc                                   3,351.69

Woody’s Service                              11,032.55

69 Payments less than 2000 $29,094.16

Final Total: $171543.33

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                July 8,     2011        $        166,478.33     

                                                August 3,2011        $          57,027.69

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

Airport Commission

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval to pay the CIP allotment for the matching federal funding for the Baudette/Lake of the Woods Airport in the amount of $3,750.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to pay $3,750, as budgeted for the year 2011, for the CIP Allotment for matching federal funding. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Rinke Noonan – Recording County Drainage Systems

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson presented a letter from Rinke Noonan Attorneys at Law. The board reviewed the letter in regards to recording of county drainage systems.

Concordia College School of Business

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson presented a letter of support from Concordia College School of Business requesting support for Concordia’s bid to become the host of the Small Business Development Center for the North-Western Region of Minnesota. No board action was taken.

Ducks Unlimited MN Lawful Gambling Permit

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson presented a lawful gambling application to the board for approval for a raffle for Ducks Unlimited on September 10, 2011.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve Lake of the Woods Ducks unlimited MN Lawful Gambling Permit to conduct lawful gambling on September 10, 2011 to conduct a raffle at Sportsman’s Lodge, located in Lake of the Woods County, MN and authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to sign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Liquor License Approval

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson presented applications for an On- Sale/ Sunday liquor license, 3.2 off sale malt liquor license and cigarette license to the board for First Ice Enterprises Inc. DBA Cyrus Resort.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve First Ice Enterprises Inc. (DBA Cyrus Resort) On-Sale/ Sunday liquor license; 3-2 off sale malt liquor license and cigarette license beginning August 9, 2011 thru June 30, 2012. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Red River Valley Development Association

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson presented a request for funding for the Red River Valley Development Association for 2012. The board placed this under their 2012 budget planning. 

Department of Agriculture- biomass plant

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson presented a grant contract in the amount of $100,000 for the biomass plant with the State of Minnesota, Department of Agriculture and Lake of the Woods County.

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION NO. 11-08-02

BIOMASS GRANT CONTRACT

WHEREAS; Lake of the Woods County has been awarded a grant contract with the State of Minnesota, Department of Agriculture;

WHEREAS; Lake of the Woods County hereby enters into this agreement with the State of Minnesota, Department of Agriculture effective July 1, 2011 (or the date the state obtains all required signatures) thru June 30, 2012 (or until all obligations have been satisfactory fulfilled, whichever comes first) in the amount of $100,000 for the biomass plant located in Lake of the Woods County;

WHEREAS; Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby appoints County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid as the Grantee’s Authorized Representative and the Fiscal Officer for this grant;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED; that Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners authorizes Chairman Moorman and County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to sign and authorizes County Auditor to submit this grant to the State of Minnesota, Department of Agriculture.

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

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 10:04 a.m. and reconvened at 10:10 a.m. as follows:

Land and Water Planning

Amendment No. 1/ Mn Dot Contract

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board requesting approval for Amendment No. 1 to MnDOT Contract No. 96887-Work order #2 to provide coordination and technical expertise relative to orchid relocation on TH 11.

Resolution

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

Resolution No. 11-08-01

AMMENDMENT NO. 1 TO MnDOT CONTRACT NO. 96887 – WORK ORDER #2

WHEREAS, The Minnesota Department of Transportation wished to cooperate closely with local units of government to coordinate the delivery of transportation services and maximize the efficient delivery of such services at all levels of government; and

WHEREAS, occasionally opportunities arise for local governments to provide services to MN/DOT; and

WHEREAS, The parties wish to be able to respond quickly and efficiently to such opportunities for collaboration, and have determined that MN/DOT, having the ability to write work orders against a master contract, would provide the greatest flexibility; and

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County entered into a Master Contract with the Minnesota Department of Transportation on May 11, 2010, authorizing County officers to provide services to MN/DOT;

BE IT RESOLVED, That Lake of the Woods County will provide coordination and technical expertise relative to orchid relocation along the TH 11 corridor effective on the date that all required signatures are obtained and expires on November 18, 2011, or when all obligations have been satisfactorily fulfilled, whichever occurs first.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that Chairman Moorman is authorized to sign MN/DOT Amendment No. 1 to MN/DOT Contract No. 96887 – Work Order #2.

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

Old/New Business

Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund- none;

Land Acquisition –none

Red Lake Tribe – August 22, 2011meeting;

Township Road Inventory/ATV Ordinance – Public Works Department to work on;

Line Workers School – carpet, tile, electrical package and data being done;

Inventory – none;

Beaver – none;

Clementson Bridge Property – none

CAMA-   sample training on properties;

Goals and Objectives – none;

FSA Office– none

2012 Budget- will discuss later today;

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Commissioner Patty Beckel informed the board that NW Juvenile Center report is available for the board to review.

Commissioner Arnesen informed the board that the NW Angle requested funding to purchase a monument to say “The Northernmost Point in the 48 Contiguous States” to be placed by the Young’s Bay Area. The board will discuss this at the NWA meeting on August 22, 2011.

Commissioner Todd Beckel distributed to the Board the following handouts for their review:

  • 2011 Legislative Session Summary
  • BWSR Update from Association of MN Counties
  • 2011 WCA Statute change
  • Proposed FY’12 Natural Resources Block Grants.

CORRESPONDENCE:

MCIT- 2011 Dividend Notice and Inventory of Investments were acknowledge

2012 budget

The board discussed and reviewed the 2012 budget.

Recess

With no further business before the Board, Chairman Moorman called the meeting to recess at 12:45 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: August 23, 2011

_____________________________                                      _______________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                        Ken Moorman, Board Chair

Commissioner Proceedings

August 23, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, August 23, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Ken Moorman and Ed Arnesen.  Commissioner Tom Hanson was absent. Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Chief Deputy Auditor Lorene Hanson, Penny Mio Hirst and John Oren.

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda with the following additions: Boat & Water Grant, LineWorkers Facility, Homestead Market Value Correspondence, Vacating Property, Budgets and Wetlands. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Craig Severs to St. Paul on September 26-29 for Collect and Disburse and Intake Basics; Dale Boretski to Plymouth on September 25-30 for IAAO 102 Income Approach Course; Dena Pieper to St. Cloud on October 25-26 for Attorney Support Staff Conference; Janet Rudd to St. Cloud on September 15-16 for MDRA Conference; Cassie Brune and Shelley Phillippe to Rochester on September 27-30 for MNFWCCA Conference.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the minutes of August 9, 2011 regular meeting with changes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Auditor

Claims

County Auditor John W Hoscheid met with the County Board for approval of claims.

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

                                                Revenue                       $   52,769.94

                                                Road & Bridge             $ 172,582.42

                                                County Develop           $        700.00 

                                                Solid Waste                  $        527.26

                                                                                     $ 226,579.62 

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 8/23/2011 For Payment 8/26/2011

Vendor Name                                                                   Amount

Bauer Built, Inc                                                              6,963.98

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                       2,779.91

Crop Production Services                                         12,205.09

Davidson Ready Mix & Construction Inc                  2,700.00

GM Construction Inc                                                 14,000.00

Hasler                                                                            2,000.00

Hoffman, Dale, & Swenson, Pllc                                 6,623.00

Knife River Materials                                                    2,500.00

Michaels Consulting, Inc/Ron                                  13,912.53

Minister Of Finance                                                     9,737.28

Northwest Angle&Island Freight,Inc                          5,017.50

Titan Machinery – Roseau                                       13,466.25

Univar Usa,Inc                                                          115,754.67

57 Payments less than 2000 $18,919.41

Final Total: $226,579.62

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                August 9, 2011        $         97,535.17    

                                                August 9, 2011        $                69.00

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

Northwest Community Action

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

Resolution Authorizing Administration of

the Minnesota Department of Human Services

Emergency Shelter Grant Program (ESGP)

Resolution Number   11-08-05

WHEREAS, the need for homeless prevention and assistance exists in Lake of the Woods County; and

WHEREAS, Northwest Community Action, Inc. desires to administer the Minnesota Department of Human Services Emergency Shelter Grant Program (ESGP) in Lake of the Woods County in accordance with all applicable State and Federal regulations; and

WHEREAS, in order to administer the Minnesota Department of Human Services Emergency Shelter Grant Program in Lake of the Woods County, it is necessary for Northwest Community Action, Inc. to file a resolution of approval executed by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners with the Minnesota Department of Human Services;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that Northwest Community Action, Inc. is hereby authorized to:

  1. Administer the Emergency Shelter Grant Program in Lake of the Woods County, according to the program guidelines.

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

Flu Shots

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to offer flu shots to all county employees for the fall of 2011.   The County will only pay for vaccinations that are administered at the Government Center on October 11, 2011, and the County will not pay for off-site vaccinations at any other locations or times.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Consolidated Conservation Lands

County Auditor John W Hoscheid reviewed the Consolidated Conservation Lands payment with the County Board.

Federal Boating Safety Equipment Grant

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

A Resolution Authorizing the Federal Boating Safety Supplement Equipment Grant Agreement

Resolution 11-08-04

WHEREAS, under the provisions of M.S. § 84.085 Subd 1 (c), the Sheriff of each county is required to carry out the provisions for recreational boating safety promulgated by the Commissioner;

WHEREAS, M.S. Section M.S. § 84.085 Subd 1 (c) provided for the allocation of funds by the Commissioner to assist in the funding of specific items for recreational boating safety;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Chairman, Auditor and Sheriff are hereby authorized to execute the Federal Boating Safety Supplement Equipment Grant Agreement, for the period of July 21, 2011 through December 15, 2011 in the amount of $8,569.00.

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

LineWorkers Facility

The County Board discussed the LineWorkers Facility and the maintenance of the building and grounds.

County Attorney

Prevention Coalition Program Grant

County Attorney Phil Miller met with the County Board to discuss the Prevention Coalition Program Grant.

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

Resolution Authorizing

Prevention Coalition Program Grant

Resolution Number   11-08-03

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has been awarded a grant contract with the State of Minnesota, Department of Human Service, Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse;

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County hereby enters into this agreement with the State of Minnesota, Department of Human Service, Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse effective July 1, 2011 (or the date the state obtains all required signatures) thru June 30, 2016 (or until all obligations have been satisfactory fulfilled, whichever comes first); and

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby appoints County Attorney Philip Miller as the Grantee Authorized Representative and appoints Christine Hultman as the Fiscal Officer for the grant;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners authorizes Chair Ken Moorman and County Attorney Philip Miller to sign this grant and further authorizes County Attorney Philip Miller to submit this grant to the State of Minnesota, Department of Human Service, Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse of Agriculture.

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

County Surveyor

County Surveyor Donn Rasmussen met with the County Board to discuss the 2012 budget for surveying.  It was the consensus of the County Board to take no action at this time and to further discuss this during the budget process.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 9:55 a.m. and reconvened at 10:02 a.m. as follows:

Land and Water Planning

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit

Land and Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund met with the County Board to discuss the Conditional Use Permit submitted by Adrian’s Resort. This request is to replace seven non-conforming mobile homes with three cabins within a commercial planned unit development, where the non-conformity is caused by excess density in the shoreland area of the Rainy River.  Josh explain that one of the existing cabins, adjacent to the mobile homes, may be removed in this proposal from discussion with Mr. Brian Ney during the on-site visit with the Planning Commission. After due consideration and reviewing of the Planning Commission’s Findings of Facts and Decision, the County Board agreed to adopt these Findings of Fact’s and Decision as their own and approve the request with the condition that construction of the three new cabins be completed within a ten year timeframe.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to:  agree to the Findings of Fact and Decision and to approve the Adrian’s Resorts’ project to replace seven (7) non-conforming mobile homes with three (3) cabins with a commercial planned unit development with the condition that the project be completed within ten (10) years from the date of approval.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was carried unanimously.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Adrian’s Resort (Brian Ney)                                   Date:  August 10, 2011

 Location/Legal Description:  See attached legal description

Project Proposal:  A Conditional Use Permit as required by Sections 604.1 and 1015 of the Lake of the Woods Zoning Ordinance, to allow the applicant to replace seven (7) non-conforming mobile homes with three (3) cabins with a commercial planned unit development, where the non-conformity is caused by excess density in the shoreland zone of the Rainy River.

  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? This area has been ID’d through addendum to the Lake of the Woods County’s Land Use Plan.

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

            YES(X) NO(  )N/A( )

Why or why not? Removal of old, unsafe trailers and replacement with new, ADA structures meeting proper room size.

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? No alteration of the shoreline.

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? Will not change.

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? Out of the floodplain.

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? Not  changing – setback increasing.

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

Why or why not? No changes.

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

Why or why not? Area has many resorts – not changing.

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

                                                                                                                                    YES(X)NO(  )N/A(  )

Why or why not? Resort and already existing.

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? Number of people decreases – septic up to date and potential Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District.

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

Why or why not? Will not change.

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

                                                                                                                                      YES(X)NO(  )N/A(  )

Why or why not? Already exist.

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(X)NO(  )N/A(  )

Why or why not? This doesn’t change.

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(  )NO(  )N/A(X)

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

The specific conditions of approval are as follows: 

  1. Completion within 10 years.

Recommended for Approval  as Presented  (  )      

Recommended for Approval  with Conditions  (X)

Recommended for Denial  (  )

                                                                                                                                                            _____________________________________

            Ken Moorman

            Chair, County Board of Commissioners

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

Vacation of Property

Land and Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund discussed with the County Board the Vacation of a Right-of-Way for a property owner.  No action was taken at this time.

Wetlands

Land and Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund updated the County Board on the wetlands certification.

Annual Leave

Land and Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund informed the County Board of the annual leave he would be taking from September 9, 2011 through approximately September 24, 2011.

Social services

Claims

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler and Fiscal Officer Christine Hultman met with the County Board requesting approval of claims.

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

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $  21,346.96

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $    7,699.60

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

2012 Social Services Budget

Social Services Director Nancy Wendler and Fiscal Officer Christine Hultman met with the County Board to review the 2012 Social Services Budget.

CORRESPONDENCE:

Correspondence was read and acknowledged from:

  • Minnesota Department of Revenue – Appointment of County Assessors
  • Minnesota Department of Revenue – 2011 Law Change – Homestead Market Value

Old/New Business

Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund – No action;

Land Acquisition – No action – Waiting for Certification;

Red Lake Tribe – Discussed the August 22, 2011 meeting;

Township Road Inventory/ATV Ordinance – No action;

Line Workers School – Discussed maintenance;

Inventory – No action;

Beaver – No action;

Clementson Bridge Property – No action;

CAMA – New work station;

Goals and Objectives – 2012 Budget;

FSA Office – It was the consensus of the County Board to take this off the old and new business.

2012 Budget – Reviewed.

Committee Reports

Commissioner Patty Beckel

  • GIZIIBII update

Commissioner Ed Arnesen

  • Planning Commission

Commissioner Ken Moorman

  • Economic Development Authority (EDA)

Commissioner Todd Beckel  

  • Association of MN Counties
  • Emergency Management
  • Land Acquisition – CORE

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 11:45 a.m. and reconvened at 1:05 p.m. as follows:

Public Works Director

Government Center North Building

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize the County Auditor’s office to make final payment in the amount of $14,000 to GM Construction, Inc, on the window replacement project at the County Government Center North, with a completed project total of $34,000.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

MN DOT Contract for Highway 11 Detour

Public Works Director Tim Erickson informed the County Board that the bids for the MN DOT contract for Highway 11 Detour were over the engineers estimates and therefore MN DOT will rebid this project  again next year.

LineWorkers Facility Maintenance

Public Works Director Tim Erickson discussed the maintenance of the LineWorkers Facility with the County Board.  For the interim, the county maintenance department will be doing the maintenance until all options have been researched.

Bike Path Maintenance

Public Works Director Tim Erickson met with the County Board and discussed the Bike Path maintenance and a need for a bobcat/snowblower.  Tim will research further and report back to the County Board.

Williams Shop

Public Works Director Tim Erickson met with the County Board and discussed the Williams Shop garage door and the need for repairing or replacing.  Tim was directed to get estimates and report back to the County Board.

2012 Public Works Budget

Public Works Director Tim Erickson and Office Manager Marti Carlson met with the County Board to review the 2012 Public Works budget.

2012 County Budget

The County Board discussed and reviewed the 2012 County Budget.

Recess

With no further business before the County Board, Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to recess at 3:50 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: September 13, 2011

_____________________________                                      _______________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                        Ken Moorman, Board Chair

Commissioner Proceedings

Special County Board Meeting

August 30, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in special session on Tuesday, August 30, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center.

Call to Order

Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present:  Commissioners Ed Arnesen, Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel, Tom Hanson and Ken Moorman.  Also present was County Auditor John W Hoscheid. 

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda for the special meeting today with an addition of the Public Works Department.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

2012 Budget Review

The County Board reviewed budgets submitted for 2012 and discussed the proposed levy for 2012.

County Sheriff

County Sheriff Dallas Block and Chief Deputy Terry Bandemer met with the County Board to review the sheriff’s budgets for 2012.

County Auditor

Fund Balances

County Auditor John W Hoscheid met with the County Board regarding fund balances.

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen to authorize the County Auditor to designate reserves for land and building acquisitions, following State Auditor’s guidelines.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize the County Auditor to set the cash flow reserves to eight months and to designate the remaining balance for long term operation and capital budget planning.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Auditor

Credit Card Bill

County Auditor John W Hoscheid presented the current county credit card statement to the County Board.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the county credit card statement and authorize payment in the amount of $356.81. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Phone and Postage Expenses

County Auditor John W Hoscheid met with the County Board to review accounting procedures for the county phone and postage expenses.  It was the consensus of the County Board to itemize these expenses by fund, rather than by department, beginning January 2012. 

Public Works Director

Public Works Director Tim Erickson met with the County Board to review the Public Works budget for 2012.

Historical Society

Marlys Hirst representing the Historical Society, met with the County Board to review the 2012 budget request for the Historical Society.

2012 County Budgets

The County Board further reviewed all the County Budgets for 2012 and discussed options for a 5% increase for the 2012 levy for the county and a 5% increase for the road and bridge township levy.

Recess

There being no further business before the County Board, Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to recess at 1:45 p.m.

Attest:                                                             Approved: September 13, 2011

______________________________            ___________________________________

John W Hoscheid                                          Ken Moorman

County Auditor                                             County Board Chair

July, 2011

Commissioner Proceedings

July 12, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, July 12, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Chairman Moorman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners:  Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Hanson, Moorman and Arnesen.  Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, Penny Mio Hirst and John Oren.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda with the following additions: Affidavit of lost warrant, Credit Card Policy, Nuisance Beaver, PILT, Closed Session, re-schedule Joint Meeting with City of Baudette and County Health Insurance. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

None

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the minutes of June 28, 2011 regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Social services

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

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

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $13,009.11

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $20,557.45

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

County Auditor

Claims

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the County Board for approval of claims.

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

                                                Revenue                       $ 58,100.72   

                                                Road & Bridge            $205,804.34

                                                County Development   $      303.77

                                                Solid Waste                  $ 26,304.85

                                                                                     $ 290,513.68             

 WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 7/15/2011 For Payment 7/15/2011

Vendor Name                                                                  Amount

Anchor Marketing, Inc                                                 2,201.16

Bauer Built, Inc                                                              5,399.00

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                       6,678.43

Earthworks Contracting Inc                                        6,341.25

Farmers Union Oil Co.                                              12,678.00

Ferrier Logging, Inc                                                     6,103.75

Fish/Kevin                                                                   12,207.50

Hancock Concrete Products LLC                               5,817.21

Hasbargen Farms Inc                                                  4,607.50

Howard’s Oil Company                                               5,830.45

Lake Area Construction Inc                                       13,625.00

Lavalla Sand & Gravel Inc                                           6,483.75

LOW Highway Dept                                                     4,516.25

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                           11,504.70

Miovac/Tim                                                                   6,198.75

Norling Construction, Inc/Adam                               32,878.80

Norman Johnson Trucking, Inc.                                6,032.50

Nuss Truck & Equipment                                           73,557.00

Polar Chevrolet                                                          28,196.70

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                     4,493.98

Woody’s Service                                                        11,507.50

44 Payments less than 2000 $23,654.50

Final Total: $290513.68

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                June 29, 2011        $        13,590.93     

                                                June 30, 2011        $        44,644.15

                                                July 5,    2011        $          (500.00)

                                                July 5,    2011        $     370,233.29

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

Prosper Township Cemetery

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and presented a follow up letter from Widseth Smith & Nolting in regards to the surveying of the Prosper Township Cemetery. County Surveyor, Donn Rasmussen stated in his letter that the cost of the survey work would be approximately $4,000 as they have to locate and establish the boundaries of Section 30 and the section corners may need to be re-established.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize County Surveyor, Donn Rasmussen to survey the Prosper Township Cemetery with the funds from the re-monumentation account in the amount not to exceed $4,000. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried with Commissioner Patty Beckel abstaining from voting. 

Application for Abatement

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and Interim County Assessor, Dale Boretski met with the board to discuss the application for abatement from Steven A. Fisher. Interim County Assessor Dale Boretski informed the board that Steven was not the owner of the property as of January 2, 2010, and that he purchased the property on July 1, 2010. Even though he did not contact the office regarding the 2010 value until May of 2011 he is requesting that the value for the 2010 be reduced. A valuation notice was sent out in April of 2011 which showed a value reduction on the structures of 30% for 2011 valuation; taxes payable 2012. Interim County Assesor recommended to the board to deny this application for abatement.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to deny the application for abatement for Steven A. Fisher from the recommendation of Interim County Assessor, Dale Boretski. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Affidavit of Lost Warrant

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid presented an application for lost warrant for Nancy Brouse.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the application and affidavit for lost warrant for Nancy Brouse dated March 11, 2011 for $110.50 without furnishing indemnifying bond.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Credit Card Policy

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid, Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson and Commissioner Hanson discussed the Credit Card concerns with the board. Commissioner Hanson reported that he discussed this at the Department Head meeting on July 11, 2011 and the following recommendations were made:

  • No use of credit cards in town;
  • No receipts/ no payment;
  • Turn in receipts three working days after travel;
  • No charges for motel rooms or conferences- direct billing available;
  • Only overnight travel meals to be charged on credit card;
  • Limit of food allowance for out of town travel- $8.00 breakfast; $12.00 lunch and $20.00 supper; if over allowance you will need to pay the overage at that time.

The board requested that Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen make the changes and bring back to the board for their approval.

County Health Insurance

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid, met with the board per their request on the County Health Insurance rates for 2012. John informed them that he checked with the insurance company about the rates and they could not give him an answer at this time as it depends what the next couple month’s loss ratio brings; they said as of now, it looks favorable.

Gary Kjellgren

Request of Funds

The board reviewed the letter of request from Gary Kjellgren requesting funds to attend the Junior National Young Leaders Conference that he was nominated to represent the School and Community. The board requested a letter be sent to Gary congratulating him of his nomination but informing him that they cannot contribute funds to individuals’ request.

Land and Water Planning

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board requesting approval for appointment to the Board of Adjustment and Planning Commission.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to appoint the following to the Board of Adjustments and Planning Commission: District 1- Dave Marhula; District 2- Reed McFarlane; District 3- Gerald Levasseur; District 4- Tom Mio; District 5- Jami McEnelly and two members at large for Planning Commission are Ron Webb and Ken Horntvedt; and one Commissioner as a non-voting member to Planning Commission, Commissioner Arnesen and alternates- Commissioners. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board to request approval to purchase Landscape Rake for the Solid Waste Department.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to authorize the Public Works Director to purchase a seven (7) foot Landscape Rake from Holte Implement in the amount of $650 for the Solid Waste Department. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Nuisance Beaver

Commissioner Arnesen discussed a nuisance beaver that is damaging a constituent’s property with Public Works Director, Tim Erickson.  Tim said he would check into this matter to see what they could do.

State Highway 11/ GCN Building

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and informed him that State Hwy 11 is now done until next year due to the State shut down; informed the board that the replacement windows at the GCN building will be installed starting tomorrow.

School Forest Committee

Superintendent, Steve Wymore met with the board requesting authorization for the Public Works Department to assist in moving top soil for the School Forest. Steve informed the board that the DNR Wildlife Department will also help spread the soil. The consensus of the board was they will help with this project if they can.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 10:50 a.m. and reconvened at 10:56 a.m. as follows:

County Auditor

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board to discuss the Lineworkers School closing date and informed the board of the paper work that needs to be completed and reviewed by County Attorney, Philip Miller before closing.

Budget Dates

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board per their request to discuss the upcoming budget cycle. The board requested that they would like the 6 month figures from 2011 ready by July 26, 2011 board meeting.

STATE SHUT DOWN

The board discussed the effects on the county if the State  shut down is prolonged.

PILT PAYMENTS

Commissioner Todd Beckel informed the board that the payment structure for the  PILT program may change to the counties benefit if the payment plan structure is approved.

City of Baudette Jt Meeting

Commissioner Patty Beckel informed the board that the Joint Meeting with the City of Baudette was cancelled by the City Council Members. The board tentatively set July 28, 2011 to meet. Commissioner Patty Beckel will get back to the Commissioners.

NWA INFORMATIONAL MEETING

The board discussed the NWA Open House meeting that is set for August 22, 2011 at the NWA School from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Old/New Business

Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund- none;

Land Acquisition – July 26, 2011 meeting;

Red Lake Tribe – none;

Township Road Inventory/ATV Ordinance – discussed with Public Works Director;

Line Workers School – none;

Inventory – none;

Beaver – none;

Clementson Bridge Property – none

CAMA-   training July 21-22;

Goals and Objectives – none;

FSA Office– none

2012 Budget- add to old/new

Committee Reports

There were no reports.

Closed Session – Pursuant to MN Statute § 13D.03 Labor Negotiations

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the regular session at 11:40 a.m. pursuant MN Statute § 13D.03 for union negotiations. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

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

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the closed session at 12:15 p.m. and open the regular session.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Moorman called the meeting to recess at 12:16 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved: July 26, 2011

_____________________________                                                  ____________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                                    Ken Moorman, Chairman of the Board

Commissioner Proceedings

July 26, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, July 26, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Chairman Moorman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners:  Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Moorman and Arnesen. Commissioner Hanson was absent. Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, Penny Mio Hirst and John Oren.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda with the following additions: Office of Legislative Auditor. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Craig Severs to St. Paul on 08-09 thru 08-10 for Legal Process Establishment/Paternity and Legal Process Review/Modification and 08-23 to St. Paul for Legal Process- Classroom Part 2 CORD/Service of Process; Phil Johnson to Duluth on 09-20 thru 09-23 for Community Mental Health Annual Conference. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the minutes of July 12, 2011 regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

DWI Court Review

Lisa Santee, LOW/Koochiching County DUI/Substance Abuse Court Coordinator meet with the board to inform them that they received the Bryne Justice Assistance Grant which will fund the program until September, 2012.  Lisa also requested that one member of the Lake of the Woods County Board be appointed to the DWI Steering Committee.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to appoint Commissioner Patty Beckel to the DWI Steering Committee. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Social services

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       $  5,958.38

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $24,965.23

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $  1,067.58

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

County Auditor

Claims

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the County Board for approval of claims.

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

                                                Revenue                       $  34,471.69  

                                                Road & Bridge            $ 171,399.43

                                                Social Service                     (511.00)  

                                                Solid Waste                  $   2,017.79_

                                                                                     $207,377.91              

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 7/26/2011 For Payment 7/29/2011

Vendor Name                                             Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                      2,410.66

Crop Production Services                                           6,102.54

Earthworks Contracting Inc                                        4,488.75

Ferrier Logging, Inc                                                     4,536.25

Fish/Kevin                                                                     8,407.50

Government Management Group, Inc                       3,500.00

Hasbargen Farms Inc                                                  4,512.50

Hasler                                                                           2,000.00

Lake Area Construction Inc                                         6,950.00

Lavalla Sand & Gravel Inc                                           4,061.25

Minnesota Ui                                                                2,030.43

Miovac/Tim                                                                   4,465.00

Norman Johnson Trucking, Inc.                                4,512.50

PB Electronics Inc                                                        4,710.00

Strata Corp, Inc                                                        127,602.62

53 Payments less than 2000 $17,087.91

Final Total: $207377.91

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                July 13, 2011        $        119,817.09     

                                                July 15, 2011        $          50,626.88

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

Cost Allocation

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval to enter into a contract with Government Management Group from December 31, 2011 thru December 2013 to prepare the Lake of the Woods County Central Services Cost Allocation Plans.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to sign the Government Management Group contract for cost allocation plans for the fiscal years ending December 31, 2011, 2012, and 2013 for the fixed rate of $3,500 per year. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Office of the Legislative Auditor

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid informed the board that he received notification from the Office of the Legislative Auditor that they are evaluating local governments’ use of cooperative agreements and other efforts to collaborate on the delivery of services. John informed the board that he will gather the information and complete the survey.

EMERGENY MANAGEMENT

Sjoberg’s Proposed Pre-Paid Leases

Emergency Manager Director, Holly House met with the board and presented the Pre-Paid Lease with Sjoberg’s Cable to install 12 dark fibers for providing bandwidth for the County’s public safety use. The funding will be from the Northern Border Homeland Security Grant. (Grant Numbers for the MN State grant number is 2009-HSGP-00302, the Federal Funding CFDA # 97.067.)

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to enter into a prepaid lease between Lake of the Woods County and Sjoberg’s Inc. for a fiber connection between the Lake of the Wood County Courthouse and a Tower Building located at the intersection of Co. Road 1 and Co. Rd 3. Sjoberg’s will design, engineer, build, install fiber management boxes in each building to act as points of demarcation and maintain the circuit for a period of twenty (20) years, starting from the first day of usage of the 1st fiber. This lease can be renewed at the end of the twenty (20) year period at the discretion of the County. The proposed cost of the prepaid lease will be $60,930.83 with the funding from the Northern Border Homeland Security Grant. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 10:00 a.m. and reconvened at 10:08 a.m. as follows:

COUNTY SURVEYOR

County Surveyor, Donn Rassmussen met with the board and informed them that they started the survey work on the Proper Cemetery today and informed them of the various surveying that will be done.

SHERIFF

Zero Adult Provider Grant

Chief Deputy Sheriff, Terry Bandemer met with the board and requested approval for the Zero Adult Provider (ZAP) grant that the County received in the amount of $5,000 to be used for enforcing underage drinking law program to enforce underage drinking and educate alcohol retailer and community members regarding underage drinking laws.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize the Sheriff’s Office to enter into a grant agreement with the Minnesota Institute of Public Health effective July 1, 2011 to administer the Zero Adult Providers (ZAP) initiative in the amount not to exceed $5,000 and to authorize County Sheriff, Dallas Block to sign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

In-Car Camera Grant

Chief Deputy Sheriff, Terry Bandemer met with the board and requested approval for the In-Car Cameras Order and Distribution Agreement awarded through the Department of Public Safety In-Car Camera Initiative. Terry informed the board that there is a required local match of $100 per camera.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to authorize Chief Deputy Sheriff, Terry Bandemer to sign the In- Car Camera Agreement which is awarded through the Department of Public Safety In-Car Camera Initiative, for two (2) In-Car Camera’s with matching funds of $100 per camera.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and informed them that he did not get Tim Aery on the Consent Agenda to travel. He stated that there is training in Little Rock AK on emissions for Caterpillar Equipment and the cost associated with this training, including airfare is $350.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to amend the Consent Agenda and to add Tim Aery for travel on August 4-6 to Little Rock AK for training on emissions for Caterpillars Equipment in the amount of $350 for the training and airfare. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Government Center North Windows

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson informed the board that the installation of the windows at the GCN building is going well and that they made a partial payment of $20,000 to Borgen Construction to cover the cost of the windows.

Revised Credit Card Policy

The board reviewed the changes of the Credit Card Policy.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the changes of the Credit Card Policy and requested that Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen send out the newly revised policy to all staff. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Old/New Business

Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund- none;

Land Acquisition – workshop meeting;

Red Lake Tribe – none;

Township Road Inventory/ATV Ordinance – contact DNR- Public Works Department;

Line Workers School – none;

Inventory – none;

Beaver – none;

Clementson Bridge Property – none

CAMA-   training was on July 21-22;

Goals and Objectives – Commissioners to get together with their Department Heads;

FSA Office– office staff is back

2012 Budget- will discuss later today;

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Commissioner Patty Beckel reported on:

NW Juvenile Training Meeting

Commissioner Todd Beckel reported on:

Radio Board Meeting

Collaborative Prevention Grant

Joint Powers Land Use Meeting

Commissioners Arnesen and Moorman reported on:

Drainage 101 Training

Commissioner Moorman reported on:

HRDC Meeting

2012 budget

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson met with the board to discuss the 2012 budget.

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Moorman called the meeting to recess at 11:45 a.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved: August 8, 2011

_____________________________                                                  ____________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                                    Ken Moorman, Chairman of the Board

June, 2011

Commissioner Proceedings

June 14, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, June 14, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Work Session

The work session was cancelled due to emergency circumstances which involved the County Sheriff’s Office.

Call to Order

Chairman Moorman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners:  Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Tom Hanson, Moorman and Arnesen.  Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd and Penny Mio Hirst.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda with the following additions: Senator Saxhaug Letter and Assessors Interviews. The motion was seconded by Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the consent agenda for travel as follows:  Travel for Josh Stromlund to St. Cloud for continuing educational training for septic system licensure November 30-December 1 and to St. Cloud for MACPZA Legislative Update and Training on June 16-17; Lorene Hanson and John W. Hoscheid to Deerwood on June 21-24 for MACO Annual Conference;

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

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel approve the minutes of May 24, 2011, regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Voyageurs Comtronics

Tower Inspection

Lee Hervey from Voyageurs Comtronics met with the board to discuss tower inspections. Lee informed the board that one year ago the tower was painted and the inspection is good for five (5) years. The board requested that Lee present a yearly activity report on Tower related issues. Lee informed the board that the Federal Communications Commission says that Ch. 51 is the highest channel that can be used for broadcasting, because of this, county TV channels will be changing in Lake of the Woods County. With this change, the top antenna on the tower needs to be replaced with a new one. The cost is approximately $30,000 to have this completed.  Lee also informed the board that Roseau County is replacing their tower, and that the county will lose county TV for approximately a week, or longer depending on weather. Lee stated that if spare equipment was purchased, he could do a temporary feed to the Koochiching County tower to pull signal from there so there will be no loss of coverage.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize Voyageurs Comtronics to purchase spare equipment for a temporary feed to pull signal from Koochiching County while Roseau County completes their tower replacement.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the vote carried as follows:  Voting for: Commissioner’s Patty Beckel, Hanson, Moorman and Arnesen. Voting against: Commissioner Todd Beckel.

MIS

MIS Director, Brent Birkeland met with the board along with MN Office of Enterprise Technology (OET) representatives Jan Nelson and Mark Nelson. OET lead a presentation via Video Conference on the changes in Wide Area Network (WAN) connectivity. The board discussed the cost of the WAN services.  The consensus of the board was to go with OET at the rate of $600.00 per month until December 31, 2011.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the OET WAN Connectivity at the rate of $900.00 per month effective January 1, 2012.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

SHERIFF

County Sheriff, Dallas Block requested the board amend and adjust his salary with an additional 8 hours per week for Stonegarden work.

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

Amend County Sheriff Salary

Resolution 11-06-01

WHEREAS, the United States Department of Homeland Security has asked local law enforcement agencies along our Nation’s border to step up border monitoring, pursue joint objectives, and enhance their capabilities for providing border security; and,

WHEREAS, in an effort to assist local governments in fulfilling this request, the Department of Homeland Security through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division, offered “Operation Stonegarden 2010” grant; and,

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office is a successful recipient of an Operation Stonegarden 2010 grant; and,

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff has undertaken, as additional duties, the responsibility to avail himself and his officers for additional training, or to provide such training for his officers himself, for border protection and border security, and the additional duties of improving the distinct capability of the sheriff’s office as a whole with regard to border security and border patrol as part of a joint mission; and in addition, as and for additional duties, the sheriff will necessarily devote more of his own time to border patrol and border enforcement; and,

WHEREAS, the Operation Stonegarden 2010 grant given to assist the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office in its efforts to secure the border includes the sum of $33,280.00 overtime and $ 7,280.00 fringe benefits; and,

WHEREAS, it is estimated that these additional border security duties will necessitate that the Sheriff expend on average another eight (8) hours per week; and,

WHEREAS, through the Operation Stonegarden 2010 grant, all of the additional overtime worked by officers devoted to border security issues is fully reimbursable under the grant, including the cost of officer overtime pay, PERA, Medicare and worker’s compensation, so that the net cost of the additional homeland security duties to Lake of the Woods County is fully reimbursed by the grant.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the resolution setting the sheriff’s salary, as originally set by this board on December 14, 2010 was $68,024.06 and fringe benefits were $9,795.46, be amended so that the sheriff’s salary is increased by the sum of $9,500.00 and fringe benefits are increased by $1,368.00 commencing June 12, 2011 through December 31, 2011, with the increase funding from the Operation Stonegarden 2010 grant contingent upon the following:

  1. That the Operation Stonegarden 2010 grant funding be available; and,
  2. That the sheriff works, in addition to his regular duties, eight (8) hours per week of said Operation Stonegarden 2010 grant.

At such time that the Operation Stonegarden 2010 grant funding is no longer available and/or if the sheriff is unable to complete the additional eight (8) hours per week of Operation Stonegarden 2010 grant work, then the sheriff’s salary shall return to the salary as originally set by this board on December 14, 2010.

The resolution was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and carried as follows:  For:  Commissioners: Ed Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Tom Hanson and Ken Moorman; Against:  Commissioner Todd Beckel.

Emergency Management Director

Emergency Management Director, Holly House met with the board requesting approval for the Regional Radio Board JPA modification resolution.

Resolution

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

Resolution No. 11-06-02-

A RESOLUTION APPROVING MODIFICATIONS TO THE

JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT FORMING THE

NORTHWEST REGIONAL RADIO BOARD

WHEREAS,  Lake of the Woods County is a participating member of the Northwest Regional Radio Board, a Joint Powers Entity formed pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 403.39 and 471.59; and

WHEREAS, a Joint Powers Agreement creating the Northwest Regional Radio Board was approved by the fourteen counties and one city comprising the Board, including Lake of the Woods County ; and

WHEREAS, the current Joint Powers Agreement provides for membership by counties and cities within HSEM Region 3; and

WHEREAS, the Minnesota legislature has amended Minnesota Statute 471.59 to provide authority for federally recognized Indian tribes to participate in Joint Powers Agreements; and

WHEREAS, compliance with this amendment to Minnesota statute requires modification of the existing Joint Powers Agreement; and

WHEREAS, the Northwest Regional Radio Board recommends modification of the Joint Powers Agreement governing the Northwest Regional Radio Board to provide for the authority for federally recognized Indian tribes meeting the same requirements as counties and cities within HSEM Region 3 to participate in the Northwest Regional Radio Board.

BE IT RESOLVED the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners approves the modifications to the Joint Powers Agreement recommended by the Northwest Regional Radio Board and attached hereto; and be it further

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Lake of the Woods County Board Chairman is hereby authorized to execute the required addendum to the existing Joint Powers Agreement to implement the authorized modifications contingent upon the approval of County Attorney, Philip Miller.

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

Joint Powers Agreement Northwest Minnesota Regional Radio Board

Emergency Management Director, Holly House met with the board requesting approval for the Joint Powers Agreement with the Northwest Minnesota Regional Radio Board.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize Chairman Moorman and County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to sign the Joint Powers Agreement with the Northwest Minnesota Regional Radio Board.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Emergency Operations Center Grant (EOC)

Emergency Management Director, Holly House met with the board and informed them that she re-submitted a grant to Emergency Operations Center (EOC) for auxiliary power for the Government Center in the amount of $187,500 with matching funds of $ 62,500. She will keep the board posted on the progress of the grant.

Social services

Social Services Financial Officer, Christine Hultman 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       $9,592.90

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $17,553.99

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

County Auditor

Claims

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the County Board for approval of claims.

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

                                                Revenue                       $ 40,314.40   

                                                Road & Bridge             $ 51,489.13

                                                Social Service              $        48.80    

                                                County Development   $   2,943.00

                                                Solid Waste                  $ 21,357.47

                                                                                     $116,152.80              

 WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 6/14/2011 For Payment 6/17/2011

Vendor Name                                                           Amount

Baudette Low Chamber Of Commerce                           4,000.00

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                           8,568.48

Crop Production Services                                              6,102.54

Esri                                                                                    3,327.70

General Equipment & Supplies                                      3,803.82

Hasler                                                                               2,000.00

Howard’s Oil Company                                                  2,068.28

Lake Area Construction Inc                                            6,975.00

Low Highway Dept                                                          3,301.25

M-R Sign Co, Inc                                                           14,807.28

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                               10,691.55

North American Salt Co                                                  4,326.80

Northwest Mn Multi-County Hra                                     5,000.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                         2,316.95

RDO Equipment Co                                                         2,409.34

Roseau County Cooperative Assn                                2,075.96

Walker Pipe & Supply                                                     2,042.17

Widseth Smith Nolting&Asst Inc                                    2,076.33

Woody’s Service                                                             6,009.85

81 Payments less than 2000 $24,249.50

Final Total: $116,152.80

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                May 24, 2011        $      650,468.05     

                                                May 25, 2011        $      103,889.43

                                                May 27, 2011        $ 1,3000.000.00 

                                                June 3,   2011        $      732,151.93   

                                                June 7,   2011        $      134,909.08

                                                June 7,   2011        $        78,723.78   

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

Liquor License Approval

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval for the renewal of Liquor License and Cigarette Licenses.

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the following licenses:  Intoxicating Liquor, 3.2 Malt Liquor and Cigarette; from July 1, 2011, to June 30, 2012, contingent upon the approval of the County Sheriff, County Attorney and all property taxes and lodging taxes are paid to date.

  • On/Off Sale and Sunday Liquor License:

Adrian’s Resort, Angle Inn Resort, Ballard’s Resort, Borderview Lodge, Jerry’s Restaurant and Lounge, Morris Point Lakeview Lodge, Riverbend Resort, Rock Harbor Lodge, Sportsman’s Lodge, Wigwam Resort, Zippel Bay Resort, Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge;  Randall’s Resort;

  • On-Sale and Sunday Liquor License:

Cyrus Resort, Ken-Mar-Ke Resort, Flag Island Resort, Wheelers Point Resort, Schuster’s Resort and Elkhorn Outfitters Inc;

  • Off-Sale Only:

Log Cabin Liquors Inc;

  • Cigarette License:

Adrian’s Resort, Ballard’s Resort, Bay Store, Borderview Lodge, Cenex, City of Williams, City of Baudette, Cyrus Resort, Border Bait, Holiday Station, Howard’s, Jeanette Mcatee, Lake of the Woods Foods, Log Cabin Bait, Log Cabin Liquors, Long Point Resort, Morris Point Lakeview Lodge, Riverbend Resort, Rock Harbor Lodge, Sportsman’s Lodge, Sportsman’s of Oak Island Lodge, Caroline’s LLC’s, Wheeler’s Point, Zippel Bay Resort;

  • 3.2 On-Sale Malt Liquor:

Long Point Resort, Ships Wheel and Oak Island Resort;

  • 3.2 Off-Sale Malt Liquor:

Bay Store, Cyrus Resort, Border Bait, Long Point Resort, Oak Island Resort, Rock Harbor Lodge, Log Cabin Bait, Flag Island Resort.

  • Set-Up License:               

Ships Wheel Resort.

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

Arrowhead Library Board Appointment

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and informed the board that Sandy Johnson term with the Arrowhead Library Board will expire on June 30, 2011.   

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to appoint Commissioner Tom Hanson to the Arrowhead Library Board and Commissioner Todd Beckel as alternate.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Tax Forfeited Property

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board to inform them that the City of Baudette verbally informed him that they would like to purchase the tax forfeited land Parcel No. 60.57.01.080, Mohn’s Add to Baudette Subdivision Cd COBO8 Lots 8-14, Block 1, City of Baudette and requested that the County Board set a price on the property. No action was taken at this time but will be placed on the June 28, 2011 board meeting.

Senator Saxhaug’s Letter

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and presented a letter from Senator Saxhaug informing them that the County has received a $100,000 grant from the Department of Agriculture for a proposed biomass plant. John informed the board that the money could be used for feasibility study, site identification, and site acquisition.

Budget Planning Meeting Date

Chairman Moorman informed the board that they need to set a date to discuss the upcoming 2012 budget. The board will meet on July 12, 2011 at 8:00 a.m. before the regular county board meeting.

Lineworkers school

Rescind Economic Development Authority Resolution No. 2011-01-08

Approve Resolution No. 2011-06-03

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid informed the board that Lake of the Woods Title & Abstract Company called and informed him that the date on Resolution No. 11-01-08 did not match the date that North Star Electric conveyed the Lineworkers School Property to the County which was on August 24, 2010 not December 14, 2010. John requested that the board rescind that resolution and pass another resolution with the August 24, 2010 date.  

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to rescind Resolution No. 2011-01-08

“Approving the Transfer of Land, Granting the Authority to Enter into a Loan Agreement and Approving an EDA Levy in the event of a budget shortfall.”  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

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

RESOLUTION NO. 11-06-03

APPROVING THE TRANSFER OF LAND,

GRANTING THE AUTHORITY TO ENTER INTO

A LOAN AGREEMENT AND APPROVING AN EDA

LEVY IN THE EVENT OF A BUDGET SHORTFALL

WHEREAS, on September 30, 2010, the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development (“Rural Development”) approved North Star Electric Cooperative, Inc.’s application for a grant (“Grant”) to make an initial loan to Lake of the Woods County from Rural Development, pursuant to Section 313 of the Rural Electrification Act of 1936, as amended (“Act”) and 7 CFR part 4280; and  

WHEREAS, North Star Electric Cooperative, Inc. intends to use the proceeds of the Grant for the sole purpose of establishing and operating a revolving loan fund (the “Revolving Loan Fund”) to finance projects in accordance with North Star Electric Cooperative, Inc.’s approved revolving loan plan dated June 2, 2010, as approved by Rural Business and Cooperative Service; and

WHEREAS, the original loan made from the Revolving Loan Fund will be made to Lake of the Woods County Economic Development Authority to finance construction of a building (the “Building”) to be used for a line worker’s school (the “Loan”) to be operated by Wadena Community College; and

WHEREAS, North Star Electric Cooperative, Inc., on August 24, 2010, conveyed and quitclaimed unto the County of Lake of the Woods (the “County”), the following described real property (“Property”) which is situated in the County of Lake of the Woods, State of Minnesota, which is legally described as follows, to wit:

That part of the Southwest Quarter of the Southwest Quarter (SW1/4-SW1/4) and the Southeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter (SE1/4-SW1/4), Section 27, Township 161 North, Range 31 West, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota, lying southwesterly of the southwesterly right of way line of Minnesota State Trunk Highway 172 and lying easterly of the following described line: Commencing at the southwest corner of said SW1/4-SW1/4; thence North 89 degrees 59 minutes 19 seconds East, assumed bearing, 1043.00 feet along the south line of said SW1/4-SW1/4 to the point of beginning of the line to be described; thence North 00 degrees 00 minutes 41 seconds West 196.00 feet; thence North 42 degrees 54 minutes 21 seconds East 523 feet, more or less, to said southwesterly right of way line of Minnesota State Trunk Highway 172 and said line there terminating; subject to the right of way for County Road 88 (4th Street Northwest); subject to other easement, reservations or restrictions of record, if any.

WHEREAS, North Star Electric Cooperative, Inc. retains a right of reversion in the event that the Property is not regularly and exclusively used for educational purposes; and

WHEREAS, the County has entered into construction contracts (the “Construction Contracts”) for the Building and construction activities on the Property has already begun; and

WHEREAS, the County Board of Commissioners (the “Board”) adopted an enabling resolution (the “Enabling Resolution”) pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 469 (the “Act”) establishing the Lake of the Woods  County Economic Development Authority (the “EDA”) on September 14, 2010, as Resolution No. 10-09-01; and

WHEREAS, under Minnesota Statutes Section 465.035 a county may lease or convey its land for a nominal consideration, without consideration, or for such consideration as may be agreed when authorized by its governing body; and

WHEREAS, the Board desires to convey the Property and Building, and assign the Construction Contracts to the EDA to facilitate construction of the Building and the establishment of the line worker’s school; and

WHEREAS, Wadena Community College intends to lease the Building from the EDA; and

WHEREAS, as a condition of the Loan by North Star Electric Cooperative, Inc. the EDA is required to pledge the Property and Building as collateral; and

WHEREAS, the lease payments made by Wadena Community College are anticipated to be sufficient to cover all debt payments on the Loan; and

WHEREAS, the Board desires to authorize the EDA to enter into an agreement or agreements for the Loan with North Star Electric Cooperative, Inc. including approving a debt obligation of the EDA and agree to consider annually whether to impose a county-wide levy of the EDA as authorized by Minnesota Statutes, Section 469.107 in the event lease payments are insufficient to cover debt payments on the Loan; and

WHEREAS, the Enabling Resolution of the EDA may be modified to make any changes as authorized by the Act or deemed appropriate by the County Board of Commissioners.

NOW, THEREFORE:

BE IT RESOLVED by the Board, that the conveyance of the Property to the EDA is in the best interests of the County and its people, and that the transaction furthers its general plan of economic development and the conveyance of the Property to the EDA is approved.

BE IT RESOLVED by the Board, that the County approves the Loan and borrowing from North Star Electric Cooperative, Inc. by the EDA

BE IT RESOLVED by the Board, that the County agrees to consider annually whether to impose a county-wide levy on behalf of the EDA, pursuant to and as limited by Minnesota Statutes, Section 469.107, in the event lease payments are insufficient to cover debt service payments on the Loan.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Board, that the County authorizes its Chairperson and Auditor, on behalf of the County, to execute any and all such documents and instruments as may be necessary to (a) facilitate the conveyance of the Property to the EDA, including a quit claim deed in substantially the same form as attached in Exhibit B, and (b) assign the Construction Contracts to the EDA.

The resolution was seconded by Commissioner Hanson, and the vote carried as follows: Voting for: Commissioners Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Hanson and Moorman. Commissioner Arnesen abstained from voting.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 12:00 p.m. and reconvened at 1:01 p.m. as follows:

Land and water planning director

Williams Wastewater Treatment Facility

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board along with Tim Wedin, LHB Engineer on conference call to discuss the Williams Wastewater treatment facility and the two options for easements that are available. The consensus of the board was to have County Attorney, County Surveyor, County Engineer and Land and Water Planning Director work with the engineers on this.

State of Minnesota Work Order

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board informing them that the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) has written a work order to provide coordination and technical expertise relative to orchid relocation along the TH 11 corridor under the Master Contract with MnDOT that the county entered into on May 11, 2010.

Resolution

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

Resolution No. 11-06-04

MN DOT AGREEMENT NO. 96887, WORK ORDER 02

WHEREAS, The Minnesota Department of Transportation wishes to cooperate closely with local units of government to coordinate the delivery of transportation services and maximize the efficient delivery of such services at all levels of government; and

WHEREAS, Occasionally opportunities arise for local governments to provide services to Mn/Dot; and

WHEREAS,  The parties wish to be able to respond quickly and efficiently to such opportunities for collaboration, and have determined that Mn/DOT, having the ability to write work orders against a master contract, would provide the greatest flexibility; and

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County entered into a Master Contract with the Minnesota Department of Transportation on May 11, 2010, authorizing County officers to provide services to Mn/DOT;

BE IT RESOLVED: That Lake of the Woods County will provide coordination and technical expertise relative to orchid relocation along the TH 11 corridor effective on the date that all required signatures are obtained and expires on November 18, 2011, or when all obligations have been satisfactorily fulfilled, whichever occurs first.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Chairman Moorman is authorized to sign MN/DOT Agreement No. 96887, Work Order 02.

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

Ordinance Amendment

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and informed them that recent legislative changes now have merged the standards for approving/denying variances for cities, counties and townships. Josh recommended to the board to move the “Planning Commission” to the “Board of Adjustments”.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to amend Article XII of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to be consistent with Minnesota Statute 394.27, Subdivision 7 as amended by the Minnesota Legislature.  Through proper notification and procedures, the Comprehensive Land Use Committee shall draft language and present it to the Planning Commission at a future date when completed.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the vote carried as follow:  Voting for: Commissioners Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Moorman and Hanson.  Voting against: Commissioner Arnesen.

International Lake of the Woods and Rainy River Watershed Task Force

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund reviewed the draft resolution for the International Lake of the Woods and Rainy River Watershed Task Force. No action was taken and placed on the June 21, 2011 board agenda.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 2:03 p.m. and reconvened at 2:07 p.m. as follows:

State shut down

The board discussed with Department Heads that were present what affects it would have on their offices if the State would shut down.

Tower Lease

The board reviewed the State Land Lease with Mn/DOT which is participating in a partnership for the development and operation of a public safety radio communication system within Lake of the Woods County. The DOT has the need to construct a Communications Tower to provide radio coverage for the ARMER system and other radio communications service; Lake of the Woods County has a need for a Communications Tower to support the implementation of its county-wide communications system.  County Attorney, Philip Miller discussed his recommendation of changes to the lease.  The board agreed of the recommendations and requested that County Attorney, Philip Miller make those changes and send to the State for their comments.

Human resources- Assessor’s interview

Human Resources Director, Wade Johannesen met with the board and handed out packets for the

Assessor’s Interviews which will be held on June 17, 2011.

Old/New Business

There were no new updates on Old/New Business.

Committee Reports

Commissioner Moorman updated the board on Lutheran Social Service and the Local Advisory Mental Health.

With no further business before the board, Chairman Moorman called the meeting to recess at 3:30 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved: June 28, 2011

_____________________________                                                  ____________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                                    Ken Moorman, Chairman of the Board

Lake of the Woods County

Board of Appeal and Equalization

June 14, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Appeal and Equalization met on Tuesday, June 14, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center. 

Call to Order

County Board Chair Ken Moorman called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present:  Commissioners: Ed Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Tom Hanson, Ken Moorman and County Auditor John W Hoscheid.  Also present were: Chief Deputy Auditor Lorene Hanson, Interim County Assessor Dale Boretski, County Assessment Specialist Joy Lindquist, Lisa Tibbits, George M Swentik, Arnold Freije, Dale Thortsen, Krisann Thortsen, Rod Thompson and Gloriann Fischer.  Deputy Recorder Christie Russell swore in the members of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Appeal and Equalization. 

Property Owners

County Board Chair Ken Moorman explained that all appeals would be heard before any action would be taken.

Meeting with the County Board was Lisa Tibbits, property owner in Wabanica Township.  Interim County Assessor Dale Boretski reviewed the values of similar properties in this area. 

Meeting with the County Board was George M Swentik, property owner in Gudrid Township.  Interim County Assessor Dale Boretski reviewed the values of similar properties in this area and addressed the depth of his property.

Meeting with the County Board was Arnold Freije, property owner in Northwest Angle Township.  Interim County Assessor Dale Boretski reviewed the values of similar properties in this area and explained that the site value was changed on all parcels in the county.

Meeting with the County Board was Dale Thortsen, property owner in Baudette Township.  Interim County Assessor Dale Boretski reviewed the values of similar properties in this area, explained mobile home assessments and that site values were changed on all parcels in the county.

Meeting with the County Board was Rod Thompson, property owner in Prosper Township.  Interim County Assessor Dale Boretski explained the levels and percentages of completion on his house and how they were assessed yearly.

Meeting with the County Board was Gloriann Fischer, property owner in Spooner Township.  Interim County Assessor Dale Boretski explained the Homestead Rural Vacant Land classification and clarified the difference in due dates between land classed as agricultural and land classed as rural vacant land.

Interim County Assessor Dale Boretski presented documentation from Della Jones, property owner in the City of Williams.  He explained that this was brought to the Williams City Board of Review.   Because it was an “Open Book” meeting, it needed to be presented at the County Board of Appeal and Equalization. 

Interim County Assessor Dale Boretski presented a letter from Doug Phalen, property owner in Baudette Township. 

Interim County Assessor Dale Boretski presented e-mail documentation from Jerry Klema, property owner in Northwest Angle Township.

Interim County Assessor Dale Boretski presented documentation from Richard Davis representing ANIP Acquisition Company, property owner in City of Baudette.  The City of Baudette Board of Review denied the request for an adjustment of value, so Mr. Davis was bringing their request to the County. 

Actions

After hearing all the appeals, questions and comments, the following action was taken:

Lisa Tibbits, property owner in Wabanica Township, Parcel No. 23.13.11.030; a motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to not make any changes from the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.   

George M Swentik, property owner in Gudrid Township, Parcel No. 31.57.01.040; motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to not make any changes from the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, carried as follows:  For:  Commissioners: Ed Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Tom Hanson and Ken Moorman; Against:  None;  Abstaining:  County Auditor John W Hoscheid.   

Arnold Freije, property owner in Northwest Angle Township, Parcel No. 02.52.02.040; motion was made by County Auditor John W Hoscheid to not make any changes from the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Dale Thortsen, property owner in Baudette Township, Parcel No. 24.20.12.032; motion was made by County Auditor John W Hoscheid, to not make any changes from the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried. 

Rod Thompson, property owner in Prosper Township, Parcel No. 16.06.31.040; the Board of Appeal and Equalization noted this was a question and clarification of the assessment which had been addressed by Interim County Assessor Dale Boretski earlier.

Gloriann Fischer, property owner in Spooner Township, Parcel Nos. 30.21.32.020 and 30.21.34.000; the Board of Appeal and Equalization noted this was a question and clarification of Homestead Rural Vacant Land classification and the required due dates between Agricultural Land and Rural Vacant Land which had been addressed by Interim County Assessor Dale Boretski earlier.

Della Jones, property owner in the City of Williams, Parcel No. 62.51.00.450; motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to not make any changes from the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting and to accept the decision from the Williams City Board of Review Open Book meeting.    The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Doug Phalen, property owner in Baudette Township, Parcel No. 24.20.13.010; motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to not make any changes from the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried. 

Jerry Klema, property owner in Northwest Angle Township, Parcel No. 03.52.50.010; motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to not make any changes from the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting.  The motion was seconded by County Auditor John W Hoscheid and the same being put to a vote, and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Jerry Klema, property owner in Northwest Angle Township, Parcel No. 06.50.00.080; motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to not make any changes from the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

ANIP Acquisition Company, property owner in the City of Baudette, Parcel No. 60.51.05.010; motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to not make any changes from the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

ANIP Acquisition Company, property owner in City of Baudette, Parcel No. 64.10.11.050; motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to not make any changes from the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Interim County Assessor

Interim County Assessor Dale Boretski issued and reviewed the following reports:

  • 2010/2011 Comparisons / New Construction — by Townships
  • New Construction and Market Value by Year — 1980 through 2011  

Adjourn

The board thanked the employees that attended the meeting for their assistance and preparation for the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting.

Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to adjourn the County Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting for 2011.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  County Board Chair Ken Moorman adjourned the Lake of the Woods County Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting for 2011, at 9:35 p.m.

Attest:                                                                         Approved: June 28, 2011

___________________________                              ________________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                            Ken Moorman, County Board Chair

Commissioner Proceedings

June 21, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, June 21, 2011, at the Northwest Angle School.

Call to Order

Chairman Moorman called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners:  Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Tom Hanson, Arnesen and Moorman. Also present were: County Sheriff, Dallas Block, Interim County Assessor, Dale Boretski and Public Works Director, Tim Erickson.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the agenda with the following additions: County TV. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Land and Water Planning

Chairman Moorman presented a resolution for adoption of the International Lake of the Woods and Rainy River Watershed Task Force for approval.

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

RESOLUTION NO. 11-06-05

International Lake of the Woods and Rainy River Watershed Task Force

WHEREAS, the Rainy/Rapid Rivers Management Board was legally constituted under the Minnesota Interlocal Cooperation Act on December 17, 1991, when the counties of Koochiching and Lake of the Woods signed a joint powers agreement to undertake and implement a local river management plan; and

WHEREAS, subsequent to its original organization, the cities of Baudette and International Falls became signatories to this agreement; and

WHEREAS, an eighteen member citizens advisory committee was appointed to develop a management plan; and

WHEREAS, the members of the citizens advisory committee represented a broad cross-section of public interests; and

WHEREAS, representatives from local, state, federal, Canadian and regulatory agencies served in an “ex officio” capacity of the advisory committee and provided technical assistance; and

WHEREAS, this management plan will protect the resources and guide the wise use of these two rivers for future generations; and

WHEREAS, the board strongly believes that local management is highly preferable to state or federal control and that decision making is most effective when done by local people; and

WHEREAS, this “grassroots” planning effort has resulted in a practical plan that is a solid foundation for the future of the Rainy/Rapid Rivers; and

WHEREAS, there has been a growing concern over the long-term ecological health of the Lake of the Woods and Rainy River watersheds; and

WHEREAS, to ensure the long-term ecological and economic vitality of the Lake of the Woods and Rainy River watershed, and noting existing trans-jurisdictional coordination and collaboration, the Governments of Canada and the United States asked the International Joint (IJC) Commission to review and make recommendations regarding the watershed’s bi-national water management and the IJC’s potential role in that management; and

WHEREAS, the IJC assigned this charge to an International Lake of the Woods and Rainy River Watershed Task Force, asking it to report by July 15, 2011; and

WHEREAS, the Task Force undertook a significant outreach campaign, with particular focus on current and planned activities that affect or can affect the boundary water in the watershed; and

WHEREAS, the Draft Final Report on Bi-national Management of Lake of the Woods and Rainy River Watershed is out for public comment which its observations and recommendations are founded on the outreach campaign; and

WHEREAS, the IJC will make its own recommendations to the U.S. and Canadian Governments by December 2011 for their consideration and potential action, based upon the Task Force’s work; and

WHEREAS, the IJC Task Force recognizes that much of the impetus for this review, as well as for many of the environmental success stories in the basin, was from “grassroots” organizations in the watershed; and

WHEREAS, this is consistent with the International Watershed Initiative philosophy of local people solving local problems; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Rainy/Rapid Rivers Board appreciates the diligence of the IJC Task Force and Citizens Advisory Group on their findings and recommendations; and

FURTHER, BE IT RESOLVED, that the fundamental philosophies of the Rainy/Rapid Board and the IJC Task Force are to retain local decision making authority which can lead to outcome based partnerships, implement local projects and programs efficiently while being held accountable to the “grassroots” organizations, and will create a repository of best management practices so as to improve the policy decisions that will sustain the long-term ecological health of the Lake of the Woods and Rainy River watersheds.

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

Airport Update

The board discussed with the residents if there was any interest in opening the Airport at the Northwest Angle, and if so, additional land would be needed for the runway is quite short.

Red Lake Update

The board discussed the road and power line issues that they have been working on with the Red Lake Tribe. Red Lake Tribe wants land in exchange for road and power line right of way. The board is working on a long term agreement for access.  There will be a meeting at the Northwest Angle in the near future, possibly in August to discuss further.

Introduction of Public Works Director

Chairman Moorman introduced Public Works Director, Tim Erickson to the Northwest Angle residents. Public Works Director informed the residents that Doug Arnold keeps him well informed on the road in the area and welcomes calls to the office on any issues anyone may have. Tim is currently working with the Red Lake Tribe to cut some trees along the road to the recycling center so it will dry sooner to avoid the bad areas.

Introduction of Deputy Sheriff

County Sheriff, Dallas Block introduced Jason Goulet as new Deputy Sheriff at the Northwest Angle. Dallas informed the residents that Deputy Goulet is a good fit for the area and very qualified for the position with his knowledge of the lake and area.

County TV

Commissioner Hanson updated the residents that County TV has been out since Saturday due to major lightening hit and should be back up in a few days.

NW Angle Fire Department

The board discussed the NW Angle Fire Department and requested they deposit the check they receive more quickly than in the past.

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Moorman recessed the meeting at 11:27 a.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved: June 28, 2011

____________________________                                                    _____________________________

                                                                                                            Ken Moorman, County Board Chair

Commissioner Proceedings

June 28, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, June 28, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Chairman Moorman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners:  Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Hanson, Moorman and Arnesen.  Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, Penny Mio Hirst and John Oren.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda with the following additions: Department of Agriculture, IRS mileage rate change, County Credit Cards, Joint meeting with City of Baudette, FSA office, Public Works Department and MN State Shut down. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the consent agenda for travel as follows: Travel for Brent Birkeland to Lutsen for MN Counties IT Leadership Association Conference on July 13-15; Craig Severs to St. Paul for Case Management and Financial Basics on June 27-30; Holly House to Breezy Point for AMEM Conference on September 17-21.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the minutes of June 14, regular meeting, June 14, Board of Appeal and Equalization and June 21, NWA meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Social services

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

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

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $11,738.56

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants       $27,515.02

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

County Auditor

Claims

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the County Board for approval of claims.

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the claims against the county except for claim number 3295 to wait for further explanation:

                                                Revenue                       $ 57,185.86   

                                                Road & Bridge             $ 12,156.46

                                                County Development   $      339.00

                                                Solid Waste                  $ 55,590.95

                                                                                     $123,272.27              

 WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 6/28/2011 For Payment 6/30/2011

 Vendor Name                                               Amount

Anchor Marketing, Inc                                 3,844.03

Barrett/Russ                                                  2,497.60

Dell Marketing, Lp                                        4,396.72

North East Technical Service,Inc               4,729.15

Northwest Mechanical Of Bemidji Inc      48,439.85

Olsen Chain And Cable Inc                        2,450.63

University Of Mn                                          8,112.51

Voyageurs Communications, Inc             23,560.59

Voyageurs Comtronics, Inc                        2,640.00

62 Payments less than 2000 $22,601.19

Final Total: $123,272.27

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                June 17, 2011        $        28,679.08     

                                                June 21, 2011        $      383,065.35

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

Tax Forfeited Property

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board to discuss the Tax Forfeited Property located in the City of Baudette.  John informed the board that $100.00 per lot would be appropriate to sell to the City of Baudette and to  get those parcels  back on the tax rolls.

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the sale of Parcel No. 60.57.01.080, Mohn’s Add to Baudette Subdivision Cd COBO8 Lots 8-14, Block 1, for $200.00 to the City of Baudette. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried. 

Liquor License Approval

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval for Wheelers Point Resort Inc. On Sale/Sunday Liquor License for Mike and Sheila Mayer.

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the On Sale/Sunday Liquor License for Wheelers Point Resort Inc. effective July 1, 2011 and ending June 30, 2012. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

IRS Mileage rate

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid informed the board that the county policy adopts the current IRS mileage rate yearly and the IRS mileage rate increased from 51 cents to 55.5 cents per mile, from July 1, 2011 thru December 31, 2011.

Department of Agriculture

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board to discuss the Department of Agriculture grant that the county received for the proposed biomass plant feasibility study. The board requested that John organize a meeting with the local citizens that are involved with this project.  The board discussed forming a committee for the Bio Mass Project.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to appoint Commissioner Arnesen, Commissioner Hanson, Land and Water Director, Josh Stromlund and County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to the Bio Mass committee. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Credit Cards

County Credit Card

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid discussed the first credit card bill that the county received and informed the board that they would not see the charges made on the account until after the bill was paid. John informed the board that everything is under policy so far, but may need to update the Credit Card Policy. The board requested that this be placed on the Department Heads Meeting agenda for further discussion.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 10:00 a.m. and reconvened at 10:04 a.m. as follows:

Human Resources

Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen met with the board to discuss the appointment of the County Assessor.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to appoint MaryJo Otten as Lake of the Woods County Interim Assessor effective July 18, 2011 at Grade 17, Step 8 and after successful completion of a six (6) month probationary period will receive a one (1) step increase; and an additional $4, 500 for relocation allowance. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Land and Water Planning

Cell Phone

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and requested a stipend for the usage of his personal cell phone versus a county issued cell phone.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve a monthly stipend for the Land and Water Planning Director in the amount of $60.00 for his personal smart phone effective July 1, 2011. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Drainage Workshop

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and informed the board of tentative dates for a Drainage Workshop with Mr. Kolb- Rinke Noonan and Mr. Sands from the University of Minnesota. The possible dates are July 19, 20 or 21.

Sewer Septic Grant

From the latest guidance received in regards to the possible state shutdown, Josh informed the board that all indications are that we are to not work on this grant and if we do, we may not be reimbursed the remaining 10%.  However, the board may authorize work to be conducted knowing full well that we may not be reimbursed the remaining 10%, which equates out to be approximately $11,000 to $12,000.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize Land and Water Planning Director to proceed with the Sewer Septic Grant process. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

State Shut Down

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund informed the board due to the possible shut down BWSR will suspend all work, activity and performances for their funding will not have been appropriated by the Minnesota Legislature. Josh also informed the board that WCA will have some consequences due to the shut down; one in particular is the Wetland Banking transactions.

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board to discuss the highway projects that the department is working on and the effects of the State shut down will have on the funding the county is suppose to receive.

Claim No. 3295

The board discussed Claim No. 3295 that they pulled for approval earlier in the day on the laser repair. Tim clarified that this was not the new laser, that it was one that is used to check slopes when they are cleaning ditches.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to pay claim No. 3295 after clarification from Public Works Director, Tim Erickson. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

STATE SHUT DOWN

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioner discussed the State Closure and potential effects of the shut down. One area in particularly was the sale of Game and Fish Licenses that would be affected   if the State of Minnesota closes.  The following is the board’s statement of position:

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to e-mail Lake of the Woods County Resorts/Business to notify customers and encourage them to purchase fishing license prior to July 1. If they are unable to purchase a MN fishing license upon arrival, we  suggest they sign a statement of attempt  that they tried to purchase a license but were unable to because the MN Electronic License System was shut down. The board still requests they purchase a Minnesota License as soon as possible when the MN Electronic License System is up and running. The board recommends that your business keep these records on file for future references if needed.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Attorney

County Attorney, Philip Miller informed the board that the hiring of a Prevention Coalition Program Coordinator will be put on hold if the State shuts down.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 12:23 p.m. and reconvened at 12:28 p.m. as follows:

Joint Meeting with City of Baudette

The board discussed possible meeting dates to meet with the City of Baudette City Council members to discuss several common interest issues. The board would like to meet either July 13 or 14. These dates will be coordinated with the City Council.

Old/New Business

Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund- none;

Land Acquisition – none;

Red Lake Tribe – none;

Township Road Inventory/ATV Ordinance – none;

Line Workers School – none;

Inventory – none;

Beaver – none;

Clementson Bridge Property – none

CAMA-   training now on July 21-22;

Goals and Objectives – none;

FSA Office– possible concerns of office closing in L.O.W. County

Committee Reports

Commissioner Arnesen reported on:

  • NWCA

Commissioner Hanson reported on

  • Lineworkers School
  • Airport

Commissioner Moorman reported on:

  • HRDC

County Auditor John W. Hoscheid reported on:

  • Redistricting of Commissioners Districts and terms of office

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Moorman called the meeting to recess at 1:26 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved: July 12, 2011

_____________________________                                                  ____________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                                    Ken Moorman, Chairman of the Board

May, 2011

Commissioner Proceedings

May 10, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, May 10, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Work Session

County Attorney, Philip Miller met with the board at 8:00 a.m. and County Sheriff Dallas Block and Chief Deputy Sheriff Terry Bandemer met with the County Board at 8:15 a.m. for  work sessions.

Call to Order

Chairman Moorman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners:  Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Tom Hanson, Arnesen and Ken Moorman.  Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd, Penny Mio Hirst and John Oren.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the agenda with the following changes: add County Attorney and ATV grant; and remove Emergency Management from agenda. The motion was seconded by Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the consent agenda for travel as follows:   Joy Lindquist to Alexandria on June 6-9 for MCCC Conference; Christine Hultman to Brainerd on June 22-24 for AMSSA Conference; Dale Boretski to St. Cloud, MN on May 24-26 for MAAO Summer Sessions; Lorene Hanson to St Paul on May 11-13 for MCIT Public Sector Training; Tim Erickson to Park Rapids on May 18-19 for District II and District IV meeting; Steve Sindelir to Alexandria on August 4-5 for Continuing Education for Septic System Licensure (This is a switch from the Forest Lake session).  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the minutes of April 26, 2011, regular meeting, with changes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Social Services Director

Claims

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

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

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants           $ 13,587.30

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants           $ 20,324.40

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

Child Support Officers

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the County Board informing them that they hired Craig Severs for the vacant Child Support Officers position and informed the board that they are working on a contract for an interim Child Support Officer for support for the newly hired officer.

Policy

Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler presented a updated Applicant/Client Complaints or Grievances Policy to the board for their review.

County Auditor

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid thanked Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler for allowing Social Services Financial Officer, Christine Hultman to be trained for payroll backup.

Claims

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the County Board for approval of claims.

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

                                                Revenue                       $ 47,309.29   

                                                Road & Bridge             $ 15,056.09

                                                County Development   $      200.00

                                                Solid Waste                  $ 20,317.84

                                                                                     $ 82,883.22               

 WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 5/10/2011 For Payment 5/13/2011

             Vendor Name                                        Amount

Andy’s Garage, Inc.                                     2,978.38

Auto Value Baudette                                     3,595.85

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                       3,732.31

HASLER                                                         9,662.57

Johnson Auto & Machine                          14,014.46

Lakes Gas Co.                                              2,071.10

Low County Treasurer                                 4,265.57

Low Highway Dept                                       2,688.75

Mar-Kit Landfill                                           10,287.00

Vanguard Appraisals, Inc                            7,475.00

Woody’s Service                                          2,960.58

71 Payments less than 2000 $19,151.65

Final Total: $82,883.22

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                April 27, 2011          $         898.34

                                                April 27, 2011          $    20,486.83

                                                April 29, 2011          $      2,059.50

                                                May 4,    2011          $  142,428.42    

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

Tower Inspections

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and updated them per their request on structure tower inspection. John informed them that they are done only when something is added to the tower. The board requested that he contact Lee Hervey to schedule a meeting with the board.

Probationary Period

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and informed the board that Public Works Director, Tim Erickson probationary period is done and requested direction from the board for payroll.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve a one (1) step merit adjustment for completion of a satisfactory probation period for Public Works Director, Tim Erickson effective May 15, 2011. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

MINNESTOA EXTENSION

Nutrition Education Program

Sunny Dorow, Community Nutrition Educator met with the board and gave an update on the Nutrition program.

SHERIFF

County Sheriff, Dallas Block and Chief Deputy Sheriff, Terry Bandemer met with the board requesting approval for the 2008 Stonegarden Grant Extension and the 2008 Homeland Security Grant Extension.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to authorize County Sheriff, Dallas Block and Chairman Moorman to sign the 2008 Stonegarden Grant Extension in the amount of $35,355.22 expiring August 31, 2011.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to authorize County Sheriff, Dallas Block and Chairman Moorman to sign the 2008 Homeland Security Grant in the amount of $15,000 expiring August 31, 2011. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

ATV GRANT

The board discussed the ATV grants funding and expiration date of June 30, 2011.

SIXTH GRADE TRIP

Chairman Moorman informed the board that he would be absent from the May 23rd EDA meeting and the May 24th board meeting as he is going to Chaperone the Sixth Graders to the Capital on those days.

OLD/New Business

Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund- no update;

Land Acquisition – none;

Red Lake Tribe – process is moving along;

Township Road Inventory/ATV Ordinance – none;

Line Workers School – next meeting is on May 12 at 7:00 a.m.;

Veterans Service Policy – next agenda;

Inventory – none;

Beaver – Highway Department looking for direction;

Clementson Bridge Property – none;

CAMA-   June 14 & 15 training;

Goals and Objectives – Department Heads are working on;

Public works department

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and informed them that the claim they questioned earlier in the day was to paint all Five (5) of their truck boxes. Tim updated the board on the following:

  • Road Tour- May 17, 2011
  • Household Hazard Waste- Landfill take every day, no need for a special day
  • MCIT- will to a mock OSHA inspection at the end of the month
  • MN DOT- lifting road restriction, but not the county
  • Beaver Control Policy

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 11:30 a.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m.

PLANNING COMMISSION

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to close the regular meeting at 1:02 p.m. and open the planning commission. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

John Alexander Conditional Use Permit

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund presented the Conditional Use Permit Application to allow a commercial business consisting of a Boat and RV equipment repair shop in a Natural Environment District.  The Planning Commission reviewed the application and had several questions and concerns on the project. Chairman Moorman opened the floor for comments.  No comments were heard.  Land and Water Director, Josh Stromlund read a letter from Thomas Haggenmiller of his opposition to the project. Josh informed the board that they could table this to the next meeting for further information or deny the request and start over again. Mr. Alexander stated that he would bring the requested information to the next board meeting.

Keith Pieper Conditional Use Permit

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund presented the Conditional Use Permit Application to allow a commercial business consisting of a gunsmith work with firearm resale and trade in a Natural Environment District. The Planning Commission reviewed the application. Chairman Moorman opened the floor for comments. No comments were heard and no correspondence was received.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to close the planning commission at 2:20 p.m. and open the regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Meeting Updates

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and informed them that the NRCS Watershed Meeting will meet on May 12, 2011 at the Government Center, in the Commissioners’ Room at 5:00 p.m. and the Lake of the Woods Control Board will meet possibly on June 14 in Warroad and the Lake of the Woods Agency meeting possibly on June 15 in Baudette.

BWSR Septic Grant

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and informed them that the county received a Septic Grant to update 15 septic. He informed them that he is working out a ten (10) year maintenance plan for septic upkeep.

Office Fee Schedule

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and discussed the Administrative Subdivisions and Dwelling fees with the board. No action was taken.

Committee Reports:

The following committee reports were heard and discussed: 

  • Commissioner Patty Beckel reported on:
    • Joint Powers Economic Development
  • Commissioner Moorman reported on:
    • North Country Board of Health
    • Williams City Council Meeting

Correspondence:

The following correspondence was read and acknowledged:  Board of Appeal and Equalization training; MN Pollution Control Score Block Grant.

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Ken Moorman recessed the meeting at 3:24 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved: May 24, 2011

____________________________                                                    ____________________________

John W Hoscheid,                                                                               Ken Moorman,

County Auditor                                                                                  Chairman of the Board

Commissioner Proceedings

May 24, 2011

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, May 24, 2011, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Work Session

The work session was cancelled due to emergency circumstances which involved the County Sheriff’s Office.

Call to Order

Vice- Chairman Todd Beckel called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners:  Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Tom Hanson, and Arnesen. Commissioner Ken Moorman was excused from the meeting for other obligations.  Also present were: County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Deputy Auditor Janet Rudd and Penny Mio Hirst.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the agenda with the following additions: add Interview dates for County Assessor; Letter of support for Keystone XL pipeline; Consent travel for Dan Crompton and Lee Hancock. The motion was seconded by Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the consent agenda for travel as follows:  Travel for Brent Birkeland on June 6-8 to Alexandria for MCCC Annual Conference; Travel for Julie Berggren and Terry Bandemer on May 16-18 to Duluth for Administrative Assistant Training; Peggy Mosher, Ruth Rizzi and Cherie Anderson on May 10-11 to Elk River for Inmate Supervision Training; Lorene Hanson on June 8-9 to St. Cloud for MCIT Training; Josh Stromlund on May 31-June 1 to St. Paul for Land Use Variance Standards; Dan Crompton and Lee Hancock on May 24-25 to Sauk Rapids for pick up of concrete box culvert.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel approve the minutes of May 10, 2011, regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Social Services Director

Child Support Officers

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the County Board and introduced Craig Severs, Child Support officer to the board. The board introduced themselves and welcomed him to the county.

Claims

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the County Board and requesting approval of claims.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the following claims against the county:

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants           $ 11,774.15

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants           $ 26,010.83

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

Technology Contract Approval

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the County Board requesting approval for a contract with Department of Human Services for technology upgrades for DHS Disability Services.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to approve the contract between DHS Disability Services Division and Lake of the Woods County Social Services for 2011, for the provision of technology upgrades, and to authorize Vice-Chairman Todd Beckel to sign.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Child Support Consulting Contract

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board requesting approval for purchase of service agreement with Rita Krause to provide assistance and consultation with the duties of the Child Support Officer.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the six (6) month contract for child support consultation services between Rita Krause and Lake of the Woods County Social Services, and to authorize Vice-Chairman Todd Beckel, and Lake of the Woods County Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler, to sign same. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Auditor

Claims

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the County Board for approval of claims.

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

                                                Revenue                       $ 98,273.80   

                                                Road & Bridge             $ 15,263.11

                                                County Development   $   1,000.00

                                                Solid Waste                  $   1,317.50

                                                                                     $115,854.41              

             WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 5/24/2011 For Payment 5/27/2011

            Vendor Name                                             Amount      

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                    2,613.39

Dlt Solutions, Inc                                                      4,762.58

M-R Sign Co, Inc                                                      4,689.68

Norling Construction, Inc/Adam                           66,325.87

Sjoberg’s Inc                                                           16,094.00

60 Payments less than 2000 $21,368.89

Final Total: $115854.41

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:

                                                May 20, 2011           $    27,637.57     

                                                May 23, 2011           $    20,142.78

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

Government Revenue Management (GRM)

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and requested approval for a GRM consulting services.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to sign the consulting service agreement with Ron Michaels Consulting effective May 15, 2011 thru December 1, 2011 for GRM Consulting services.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Public Sector Training

Chief Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson met with the board and updated them on the Minnesota Counties Intergovernmental Trust training sessions she attended. Highlights of the training session were: Human Resources; Compensation Plans/Pay Equity, and Health Reform Act.

Affidavit of Lost Warrant

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and requested approval for a lost warrant for David P. Arens.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the application and affidavit for lost warrant for David P. Arens dated November 5, 2010 for $23.22 without furnishing indemnifying bond.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

SHERIFF

County Sheriff, Dallas Block’s appointment with the board was cancelled due to emergency circumstances which involved the County Sheriff’s Office.

Human Resources

Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen met with the board and requested that the Commissioners set a date for interviewing of County Assessor. The board set June 17, 2011 at 9:00 a.m. to hold a special session for interviews.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 9:55 a.m. and reconvened at 10:04 a.m.

Veterans Service Policy

Commissioner Hanson presented the Veterans Service Policy to the board for their approval.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the Veterans Service Policy with changes.  The Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Letter of Support- Keystone XL Pipeline

Commissioner Arnesen presented a letter for support for the Keystone XL pipeline. The U.S. State Department is seeking comments on the project as part of the public comment period until June 6, 2011.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize Chairman Moorman to sign the letter of support on the Keystone XL project.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Chamber of Commerce

Chamber of Commerce, President, Mike Hovde and Treasurer, Karoline Ketchum met with the board requesting consideration to increase the Counties contribution from $2,500 to $5,000 for the fourth of July Celebration that the chamber hosts.  They informed the board that due to the economy, other donations are down and costs have increased.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to contribute an additional $1,500 from the Con-con funds for the 2011 Fourth of July Celebration. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Treasurer

County Treasurer, Mark Hall met with the board and reviewed the Inventory of Investments with the board.

North west community action

Northwest Community Action (NWCA) Director Mark Carlson met with the board requesting approval for lease for space at the Government Center North Building.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to enter into a lease agreement for space at the Government Center North Building with Northwest Community Action effective August 1, 2011 thru July 31, 2014 and authorize Chairman Moorman to sign, contingent upon the approval of County Attorney, Philip Miller. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

OLD/New Business

Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund- discussed;

Land Acquisition – none;

Red Lake Tribe – June 20, meeting;

Township Road Inventory/ATV Ordinance – working on map;

Line Workers School – next meeting is on May 25;

Veterans Service Policy – remove from old/new;

Inventory – none;

Beaver – none;

Clementson Bridge Property – Tim will discuss with MN DOT;

CAMA-   June 14 & 15 training;

Goals and Objectives – none;

County Attorney

Part-time position salary and benefits

County Attorney, Philip Miller met with the board to discuss the County Attorney part-time position, salary and benefits.

Resolution

Resolution Amending the Part-Time Position of the

 County Attorney’s Salary and Benefits

Resolution 2011-05-01

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

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board recognizes that the County Attorney position is an elected position throughout the State of Minnesota, and;

WHEREAS, on January 5, 2010, the Lake of the Woods County Board designated the Lake of the Woods County Attorney position as a part-time, 60% position (minimum of three, eight hour days per week), and;

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board desires to maintain the part-time designation for the Lake of the Woods County Attorney position, but recognizes that the part-time, 60% position (minimum of three, eight hour days per week) designation does not allow for full legal coverage for the Lake of the Woods County, and;

WHEREAS, on January 5, 2010, the Lake of the Woods County Board set the Lake of the Woods County Attorney annual salary at $50,000 with a full, county paid, benefit package, and;

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board previously set the 2011 County Attorney Office budget, as well as the overall 2011 County budget, based on those figures, and;

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board, in consultation with the County Attorney, desires to make changes to the salary and compensation package for the part-time elected position, and;

WHEREAS, the changes addressed in the resolution will have no adverse impact on the 2011 County Attorney Office budget, or the overall 2011 County budget, therefore;

THE LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY BOARD DOES HEREBY;

RESOLVE TO; effective the pay period beginning May 15, 2011;

  1. Maintain the part-time designation for the elected Lake of the Woods County Attorney position;
  2. Set the annual salary for the part-time position of the Lake of the Woods County Attorney at $65,000;
  3. Maintain County PERA benefit contribution; and
  4. Maintain the County minimum basic life insurance contribution.

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

Prevention Coalition Coordinator

County Attorney, Philip Miller updated the board that he will be advertising for the Coordinator for the Prevention Coalition Program.

Public works department

Road Tour Results

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and reviewed the 2011 Road Tour results.

Mar-Kit Annual Meeting

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson informed the board that the Mar-Kit Annual meeting will be held on June 8, 2011 if any of them would like to attend.

911 Signs

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson discussed the 911 signs. He informed the board that 3,000 signs would cost the county $48,000 and the installation of the signs would cost $32,000.

Culvert

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson informed the board that the department was able to purchase a used culvert for $3,000; he noted that a new culvert would have cost $25,000. Lee Hancok and Dan Crompton will be picking up the culvert in Sauk Rapids.

Prosper Cemetery

Commissioner Arnesen discussed the Prosper Cemetery and the request of fencing the area which was viewed on 2011 road tour.  The board requested that County Surveyor, Don Rasmussen get an estimate of a survey of the Proper Cemetery and bring back to the board with cost.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 12:02 p.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m.

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

John Alexander Conditional Use Permit

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund informed the board that John Alexander withdrew his Conditional Use Permit request.

Keith Pieper Conditional Use Permit

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund presented the Findings of Facts for consideration for approval for the Conditional Use Permit for Keith Pieper to allow a commercial business consisting of a gunsmith work with firearm resale and trade in a Natural Environment District. Josh reviewed the Findings and Facts with the board.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Ken Pieper (Keith Pieper, authorized agent)                          Date:  May 24, 2011

Location/Legal Description:  A 8.35 acre tract in the SW1/4 of the NW1/4 and a 4.00 acre tract in the NW1/4 of the SW1/4 of section 17, T. 161N, R. 33W (McDougald) Parcel # 22.17.23.010

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting to allow a commercial business consisting of gunsmith work with firearm resale and trade in a Natural Environment District.

  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 values important to the county as it develops an approach to managing its land base are as follows:

      Individual Choice:  In the types of work and leisure to pursue

      Local Influence:  Over policy that affects the lives of county citizens

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’s rights and the public’s welfare and between competing economic development and environmental protection objectives

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

            YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  The proposed project is consistent by providing adequate parking, two accesses which provides flow through traffic capabilities, noise will be minimal as the business will be conducted in an existing building, and the potential pollution hazard is mitigated by self contained units on the milling machine.

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 sandy soils allow for infiltration of stormwater runoff and the location is not within a shoreland area.

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?  No construction is proposed which would alter the existing topography, drainage features and vegetative cover.

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?  The proposed project location is not within a floodplain 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 (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?  No alteration of ground is associated with the proposed use as it will be conducted within an existing building.

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

Why or why not?  The proposed project will not create an additional access off of 70th Avenue NW as there are two accesses currently servicing the property which provides flow through traffic capabilities.  Additionally, Highway 11 has a right turn lane for west bound traffic.

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

Why or why not?  The adjacent land uses in the general proximity to the proposed project consists of commercial, agricultural, and residential.

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 requested use 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 (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Liquid waste from the milling machines will be self contained.  This waste will be stored in an appropriate manner until such time a vendor disposes of it properly.

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 requested use is not within a shoreland area.

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

                                                                                                                                      YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  A private well and septic system are currently in place on the property.

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 requested use will not generate additional traffic to public waters.

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?  The proposed project does not have above or below ground storage tanks.

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?  There is natural vegetation on the North and East sides of the property.  However, due to other conditional use requests for commercial use of the property, visibility of the property is needed from Highway 11 and 70th Avenue NW.

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?  Applicant has stated that a two (