December, 2015

Commissioner Proceedings

December 30, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Wednesday, December 30, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Buck Nordlof, Tom Hanson, Patty Beckel and Ed Arnesen. Absent, Ken Moorman. Also present were:  County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Janet Rudd and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions:  Lost Warrant, Ditch 28 Invoice, Paul Bunyan Transit and Government Center North Lease.

APPROVAL of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda as follows: Cooper Mickelson to Detroit Lakes for 2016 Bridge Safety Inspection on February 23, Whitnie Reasy to Plymouth for MN Assessment Laws and Procedures Class, January 25-29.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of December 15, 2015.

AUDITOR/TREASURER

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

Revenue                      $  66,433.47

Road & Bridge           $  33,005.90

                                                Solid Waste                $    2,259.72

EDA                            $   4,735.07

                                     106,434.16

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 12/30/2015 For Payment 12/31/2015

Vendor Name                                                    Amount

Border Ridge Trucking Inc                                                       19,185.60

Compass Minerals America                                                        6,485.21

Koochiching Co Treasurer                                                        2,500.00

Lakewood Health Center                                                           35,000.00

Northwest Community Action, Inc                                              3,434.00

Pb Distributing Inc                                                                        2,242.45

Powerplan                                                                                    2,498.03

Rone Jr/Roderick W                                                                    2,179.27

University Of Mn                                                                          8,441.25

                                           73  Payments less than 2000  24,468.35

Final Total: 106,434.16

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

                                                December 17, 2015                $  30,911.85

                                                December 22, 2015                $  48,212.50

$ 79,124.35

2016 Mileage Rate

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to set the 2016 mileage rate at the IRS Standard Rate. (It was noted that the Internal Revenue Service issued a .54 cents per mile for business miles beginning January 1, 2016 for the standard rate.)

Hoffman, Philipp, & Knutson, PLLC

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board and presented the Engagement Letter from Hoffman, Philipp, & Knutson, PLLC for the 2015 Audit.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to authorize Chairman Arnesen and County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson to sign the 2015 Engagement Letter for Hoffman, Philipp & Knutson PLLC to audit Lake of the Woods County’s financial for 2015.

Board of Equalization Certificate

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board and informed the board that Commissioner Beckel and she are certified for the Board of Equalization, and that if anyone is interested they now have the on-line training that can be done prior to February 1, 2016 to be certified for the 2016. The county is required to have at least one County Board member to be certified.

Lost Warrant

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval for a lost warrant.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the application and affidavit of a lost warrant for Debra Foldoe in the amount of $104.90 without furnishing and indemnifying bond.

Ditch 28

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board and presented an invoice for payment for Ditch 28.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson to pay the Ditch 28 invoice in the amount of $11,389.11 from the Revenue account as a loan to Ditch 28 with interest in the amount of 6%.

Paul Bunyan Transit

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board and informed the board that Paul Bunyan Transit never signed the 2015 contract with Lake of the Woods and inquired about a 2016 contract. The consensus of the board was that Lake of the Woods County are just consumers and a contract is not needed.

Government Center North Contract- Sanford

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board to discuss the Government Center North Contract and informed them board that they added an amendment to the original agreement that the Lessee may assign or sublease the premises to its parent, subsidiary or corporate affiliate without the prior written consent of Lessor.  In addition, in the event Lessee merges or consolidates with its parent, subsidiary or corporate affiliate, or Lessee undergoes a corporate reorganization with its parent, subsidiary or corporate affiliate, Lessee may do so without the prior written consent of Lessor. Lorene informed the board that she is having County Attorney, James Austad review this new amendment.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the Government Center North contract with Sanford contingent approval of County Attorney, James Austad.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Social Service Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the following claims:

                                                            Commissioners’ Warrants $ 17,773.59

                                                            Commissioners’ Warrants $ 34,526.95

Contract

Social Service Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval for Social Services contracts.

Motions

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Lake of the Woods County Social Services contract with Rural Minnesota CEP for Diversionary Work Program and MFIP services for 2016-2017. 

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Lake of the Woods County Social Services contract with MIS for IT/Computer services for the Child Support, Social Services and Income Maintenance departments for the years 2016-17. 

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the Lake of the Woods County Social Services contract with Tri-Valley Opportunity Council for caring companion program services for the elderly and alternative care clients for the years 2016-17. 

WHEELERS POINT SEWER DISTRICT

 The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following resolution:

RESOLUTION FOR ELECTION OF WHEELERS POINT

SANITARY DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS

RESOLUTION

15-12-03

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners adopted the creation of a sanitary district for Wheelers Point District on September 27, 2005;

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners is the central related governing body of the Wheelers Point Sanitary District;

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners has the authority to elect members to the Wheelers Point Sanitary District Board by resolution to fill expired terms;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners elects Marshal Monk to fill the term of office for the late Ron Strauss, which will expire the first business day of, 2018, and reappoint Mike Mayer for a three year term ending the first business day, 2019.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 8:40 a.m. and reconvened at 8:45 a.m. as follows:

ASSESSOR

County Assessor, MaryJo Otten met with the board requesting a cell phone stipend.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve a smart phone cell stipend for County Assessor, MaryJo Otten in the amount of $60.00 per month.

YEARS OF SERVICE

Chairman Arnesen congratulated Assistant Assessor, Dale Boretski on behalf of the County Board on his retirement.

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

Recognition of years of service

Dale Boretski

Resolution 2015 – 12– 04

Whereas:  Dale Boretski  has served the residents of Lake of the Woods County since December 4, 2002 as  Lake of the Woods County Deputy Auditor; and then on December 15, 2008 as Assistant County Assessor;

Whereas:  Dale will retire from Lake of the Woods County service effective December 31, 2015 with thirteen years of service;

Now Therefore, Be it Resolved:  That Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners extends its deepest  appreciation to Dale for his dedicated service and  best wishes  on his retirement;

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

SHERIFF

County Sheriff, Gary Fish and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board for clarification on “On Call Status Pay” for Deputy Sheriffs when they are on call. Karen explained that the board needs to decide if this falls under the Affordable Care Act that requires thirty (30) hours per week for full-time or under the Minnesota Fair Labor Standards Act, which compensation is forty (40) hours per week.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to amend the following motion dated May 13, 2014:

“Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize payment of $20.00 per pay period for all full time Deputy Sheriff’s for on call time, effective May 25, 2014. 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, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve all Deputy Sheriffs for “On Call Status Pay” under the Affordable Care Act that work 30 hours per week or more will receive the on call status pay of $20.00 per pay period.

Human Resources

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board requesting approval for all County Job Descriptions. Commissioner Beckel informed the board that she reviewed the job descriptions.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve all County Job Descriptions a presented.

Scott Kerns Letter

The board reviewed the Scott Kerns Letter and placed it on the January 12, 2016 meeting for more discussion.

Adjournment

Chairman Arnesen thanked the board for a progressive year and accomplishments that the board completed in 2015.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to adjourn the 2015 County Board meeting at 9:30 a.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved: January 12, 2016

__________________________________                                        ______________________________

Lorene Hanson, County Auditor/Treasurer                                        Edward Arnesen

                                                                                                        Chairman of the Board

November, 2015

Commissioner Proceedings

November 24, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, November 24, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Vice- 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 Buck Nordlof, Ken Moorman, Tom Hanson, and Patty Beckel. Absent Ed Arnesen. Also present were:  County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Janet Rudd, County Attorney, James Austad and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Cell phone stipends, PERA resolution for correctional plan and Cigarette License.

APPROVAL of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda as follows: Sheri Stebakken to St. Paul on December 2-3 for MRC2 Payments; Lorene Hanson to St. Cloud on December 6-8 AMC Conference; Lorene Hanson and Rita Hasbargen to St. Cloud on December 10-11 for Year End Financial and Payroll.

 Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of November 10, 2015.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Social Service Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims:

                                                            Commissioners’ Warrants $ 10,946.52

                                                            Commissioners’ Warrants $ 25,240.63

Cell Phone Stipends

Social Service Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval for cell phone stipends for Social Workers, Alison Hauger and Joanna Onstad.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve cell phone stipends for Alison Hauger and Joanna Onstad in the amount of $60.00 per month.

AUDITOR/TREASURER

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

Revenue                      $  17,647.62

                                                Road & Bridge           $   62,386.61

                                                Solid Waste                 $    3,854.60

EDA                            $    3,877.20

                                         87,966.03

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 11/24/2015 For Payment 11/25/2015

Vendor Name                                                    Amount

                                                 Angle Outpost Resort                                                      3,810.70

Compass Minerals America                                               2,086.17

Gladen Construction, Inc.                                              46,682.50

Lavalla Sand & Gravel Inc                                                6,400.00

Mn Dept Of Transp                                                            2,526.43

Msop-Mn Sex Offender Prgrm-462                                   2,098.40

Northwest Community Action, Inc                                   2,930.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                           3,155.10

41 Payments less than 2000   18,276.73

Final Total: 87,966.03

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

                                                November 11, 2015                $261,380.11

                                                November 11, 2015                $     (480.00)

                                                November 12, 2015                $ 997,898.17

                                                November 12, 2015                $        246.50

                                                November 17, 2015                $     5,812.99

Lost Warrant

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting authorization to issue a loss warrant.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously carried to approve the application and affidavit for lost warrant for Jennifer Erickson dated June 12, 2015 for $32.64 without furnishing indemnifying bond.

Cigarette Licenses

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval for cigarette license for Lindner-Hagen Grocers, Inc. DBA Lake of the Woods Foods and Nels Holte, DBA Wash N Go.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve Cigarette License for Lindner-Hagen Grocers, Inc. DBA Lake of the Woods Foods effective January 1, 2016 thru June 30, 2016.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve a cigarette License for Nels Holte, DBA Wash N Go effective December 1, 2015 thru June 30, 2016.

Part-time Dispatcher

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting authorization for hire date for Donald Castle.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve October 13, 2015 as the effective date of hire for Donald Castle.

Hoffman, Philipp, & Knutson, PLLC Contract

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval to enter into a year-end audit contract with Hoffman, Philipp, & Knutson, PLLC audit contract which  can be three or five year contract. Lorene recommended a five year contract.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve a five year contract for year ending 2015 thru 2019 at $26,700 per year, provided activities and expenditures remain approximately the same and unexpected circumstances will not be encountered during the audit.

Snowmobile Trails Assistance Program

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board and presented the 2016 Snowmobile Maintenance and Grooming Grant Agreement.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the State of Minnesota Snowmobile Trails Assistance Program Maintenance and Grooming Grant Agreement for 2016 with the following funding amount: Big Travers for $20,641.2, Border Trails TJ Grooming/BISF#3 for $90,914.80 and NW Angle Edgeriders for $49,565.60 effective July 1, 2015 thru June 30, 3016 and authorize chairman Arnesen and County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson to sign.

PERA

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting authorization to conduct a vote on Social Security coverage for eligible Correctional Plan members thru PERA. This allows employees to vote again, and thereafter will remain as they decided, an also to allow all new hired eligible employees to have social security coverage.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to conduct a vote on the Social Security coverage for eligible Correctional Plan members with a divided vote process and a referendum date of March 1, 2016.

PUBLIC WORKS

Solid Waste Assessments for 2016

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board to review the 2016 Solid Waste Assessments.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof, and carried unanimously to approve the 2016 Solid Waste Assessment fees.

MIS DEPARTMENT

First Responder App

MIS Director, Peder Hovland and GIS Specialist, Daniel Fish met with the board to discuss the First Responder Notification App.  ProWest will develop an App for the county for First Responders in the amount of $975.00.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of the First Responder notification app in the amount of $975.00 with funding from the 911 fund or the revenue fund if 911 funds cannot be used.

Copy Machines

MIS Director, Peder Hovland met with the board requesting authorization to update on copy machines.  Peder recommends to have one machine in the work room that is dual (color/black print), update Auditor/Treasures copy machine and  transfer the current machine to the Extension office and order a dual copy machine for the Attorneys office.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the set up changes on copy machines with Marco. 

Law Enforcement Center Equipment

MIS Director, Peder Hovland met with the board requesting authorization to purchase equipment for the Sheriff’s Office.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of Law Enforcement Equipment with $4,244.61 from the Sheriff’s fund and $2,603.85 from the 911 fund.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 10:45 a.m. and reconvened at 10:50 a.m. as follows:

Closed Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting at 10:50 a.m. and open the closed session pursuant to MN Statute § 13D.03, subd. 1(b), Labor Negotiations. The following were present: Commissioner Moorman, Hanson, Nordlof, Beckel, and County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson. Commissioner Arnesen was available by phone conference.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to close the closed session at 11:10 a.m. and open the regular meeting.

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Vice-Chair Moorman called the meeting to recess at 11:11 a.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved: December 15, 2015

__________________________________                                        ______________________________

Lorene Hanson, County Auditor/Treasurer                                        Edward Arnesen

Chairman of the Board

October, 2015

Commissioner Proceedings

October 13, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, October 13, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Buck Nordlof, Ken Moorman, Tom Hanson, Patty Beckel and Ed Arnesen. Also present were:  County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Janet Rudd, County Attorney, James Austad and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: PERA resolution, County Road 17, Human Resource Sick/Vacation time, AMC Conference and Mighty Ducks Update.

APPROVAL of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda as follows: Tim Erickson to Detroit Lakes for Joint District on October 14-15 in Detroit Lakes; Heather Blodgett, Alison Hauger and Jodi Ferrier to Walker on November 4- 5 for Child Maltreatment Intake; Joanna Onstad to Bemidji on October 20-22 for SSIS Intake Basics; Shelly Phillippe and Cassi Brune to Alexandrea on October 20-23 for MFWCAA Conference.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Norldof, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of September 22, 2015.

TIMBER SALES

Commissioner Hanson informed the board that the timber sales at the Landfill have brought in more than $25,000 so far and estimate of $35,000 in November.

SHORT ELLIOTT HENDRICKSON

Benita Crow, Kaci Nowicki, and Shawn McMahon met with the board to review the Airport Layout Plan (ALP), Katie explained that the if the board chooses the Aerial Obstruction Plan, it would have to be approved by MN DOT and then the ALP would only be completed by the end of 2016 with the various steps that would need to be completed.  Cost associated to this phase would run between $60,000 to 100,000, with funding from MN DOT that would be reimbursed 90/10, if applied for by June of 2016. Katie inquired if the board would be interested in Public meetings on the plan. The board would like to hold a public meeting. Katie stated that the tree data would need to be completed first before the public meeting could be held. The consensus of the board was to have S E H  move forward with the plan.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Social Service Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 16,744.43

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 15,440.54

Social Workers

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard requested approval to for a county credit card for Social Worker, Joanna Onstad.

Motion  

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve a county credit card for Social Worker, Joanna Onstad.

Credit Card Policy

The board requested that County Auditor/Treasurer send out a reminder on the usage of County Credit Cards.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Emergency Management Director, Jill Olson met with the board informing them the Warning System is in need of replacement. Cost associated with this project is estimated around $125,000. The board requested that Jill get three different quotes and come back to the board. They also requested that County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson look and see if 911 funds could be used for the system.

SHERIFF

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting replacement for his 2012 squad car.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to authorize County Sheriff, Gary Fish to purchase a vehicle up to $30,000.

Search Update

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board and updated them on the search and informed them that they are going to try to fly from this point on. The county board commended the Sheriff staff on their search efforts and the extra efforts that all agencies involved did for the missing men.

Jail Inspection

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board to inform them that the jail inspection went well without any major issues. The inspector did state that the county should be thinking of building a new jail.

Federal Boat and Water

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting approval and authorization to enter into a grant agreement with the State of Minnesota, Federal Boating Safety Supplemental Equipment Grant.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously the following resolution:

A Resolution Authorizing the Federal Boating Safety Supplement Grant Agreement

Resolution 15-10-01

WHEREAS, under the provisions of M.S. § 84.026 Subd. 1 the State is empowered to enter into this grant; the Sheriff of each county is required to carry out the provisions for recreational boating safety promulgated by the Commissioner.

WHEREAS, 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 Grant Agreement, for the period of September 1, 2015 through December 31, 2015 in the amount of $9,666.00.

PERA

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting that newly hired Part-Time Deputy Sheriff be place on the Police and Fire PERA plan.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously the following resolution:

Resolution No. 15-10-02

Public Employees Police and Fire Plan

WHEREAS, the policy of the State of Minnesota as declared in Minnesota Statutes 353.63 is to give special consideration to employees who perform hazardous work and devote their time and skills to protecting the property and personal safety of others; and

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes Section 353.64 permits governmental subdivisions to request coverage in the Public Employees Police and Fire plan for eligible employees of police departments whose position duties meet the requirements stated therein and listed below.

BE IT RESOLVED that the Commissioners of Lake of the Woods County hereby declare that the position titled Part Time Deputy Sheriff, currently held by Nathan Hayes meets all of the following Police and Fire membership requirements:                       

  1. Said position requires a license by the Minnesota peace officer standards and training board under sections 626.84 to 626.863 and this employee is so licensed;
  1. Said position’s primary (over 50%) duty is to enforce the general criminal laws of the state;
  1. Said position charges this employee with the prevention and detection of crime;
  1. Said position gives this employee the full power of arrest, and
  1. Said position is assigned to a designated police or sheriff’s department.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this governing body hereby requests that the above-named employee be accepted as a member of the Public Employees Police and Fire Plan effective the date of this employee’s initial Police and Fire salary deduction by the governmental subdivision.

HUMAN RESOURCES/ COUNTY ASSESSOR

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board requesting the board to approve the grade, step and pay for Appraiser Trainee. Karen informed the board that the personnel committee did meet and approved the grade for this position at 9 and also requested permission to have this job description evaluated by Trusight.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve grade 9 for Appraise Trainee.

Trusight

The consensus of the board was to have Human Resource Director, Karen Ose have the Appraiser Trainee job description evaluated by Trusight.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman to authorize Human Resource Director, Karen Ose and County Assessor, Mary Jo Otten to hire Appraiser Trainee at grade 9, step 1, 16.37 per hour, points 220.

Personal Leave

County Assessor, Mary Jo Otten met with the board requesting a twelve (12) week personal leave for an employee within her office.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to allow a twelve (12) week personal leave for an employee within the County Assessor’s office.

HUMAN RESOURCES

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose and County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board to discuss Permanent Part-time vacation/sick leave hours. Lorene informed the board that all Permanent Part-time employees receive prorated vacation and sick leave Lorene informed the board that the accrued hours for Karen from date of employment would be 47.5 hours for vacation and sick leave.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to adjust vacation and sick leave by 47.5 hours accrued from date of employment for Human Resource Director Karen Ose.

auditor/treasurer

Introduction of Newly Hired Staff

County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson introduced Rita Hasbargen and Erik Tange to the board.

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                           Revenue                      $  69,435.17

                                                Road & Bridge           $   24,764.58

                                                Co. Develp                  $    3,300.00

                                                Natl Resc Enhanc        $  18,554.43    

Solid Waste                 $  42,573.74

EDA                            $    2,030.22

                                      161,058.14

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 10/13/2015 For Payment 10/16/2015

Vendor Name                                                     Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                              7,483.51

Computer Professionals Unlimited Inc                            3,585.00

Cps Technology Solutions                                               3,800.00

Dynamic Imaging Systems, Inc                                         3,085.00

Government Management Group, Inc                              3,500.00

Hoffman, Philipp & Knutson, PLLC                                  5,862.00

Howard’s Oil Company                                                     3,126.47

John Deere Financial                                                        4,631.56

LOW Highway Dept                                                           8,853.54

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                                 25,075.26

Mn Counties Information System                                      2,375.25

Msop-Mn Sex Offender Prgrm-462                                   2,132.80

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                           5,010.20

Rinke-Noonan                                                                  18,754.43

Rtvision Inc                                                                        6,084.00

University Of Mn                                                                 8,441.25

Voyageurs Comtronics, Inc                                               3,799.60

Widseth Smith Nolting&Asst Inc                                      7,061.34

Woody’s Service                                                                4,225.20

78 Payments less than 2000     34,171.73

Final Total:  161,058.14

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

                                                September    30, 2015             $  9,146.66

                                                October         1, 2015              $  5,664.36

                                                October         7, 2015              $  1,631.60

                                                October         7, 2015              $  9,292.06

                                                October         7, 2015              194,912.16

Exclusive Off-Sale

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board a requested approval for an Exclusive Off-Sale Liquor License for Nels Holte DBA “Wash N Go”.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the Exclusive Off-Sale Liquor License for Nels Holte, DBA Wash N Go effective December 1, 2015 thru June 30, 2016, contingent upon approval of County Attorney, James Austad and County Sheriff, Gary Fish.

On/Off Sale Liquor License

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board a requested approval for a Combination On-Off Sale/ Sunday Liquor License for Riverbend Resort.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the On-Off Sale/Sunday Liquor License for Riverbend Resort effective November 1, 2015 thru June 30, 2016, contingent upon approval of County Attorney, James Austad and County Sheriff, Gary Fish.

Cigarette Licenses

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board a requested approval a Cigarette License for DG Retail, LLC dba Dollar General Store.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the Cigarette License for DG Retail, LLC dba Dollar General Store effective November 1, 2015 thru June 30, 2016.

AMC CONFERENCE/MIGHTY DUCKS

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson discussed the AMC Conference reservations for December 6-8 in St. Cloud; informed the board that the county received notification that they received the application for the Mighty Ducks Ice Arena grant program.

MIS/GIS

MIS/GIS Director, Peder Hovland met with the board requesting authorization to purchase 911 equipment and support.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to authorize MIS/GIS Director, Peder Hovland to approve Independent Emergency Services Quote No. IES388813 with one year support services of $123,135.84 from 911 Funds.

SCHRANDT CARTWAY

Chairman Arnesen discussed the Schrandt Cartway and informed the board that the next recommended step is to have a survey completed on the proposed cartway property.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to request County Surveyor, Donn Rasmussen to conduct a survey on the proposed cartway property.

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board upon their request to discuss curve on Co. Road 17 and the pond with concerns of snowmobilers. The department will stake and flag the pond.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 12:03 p.m. and reconvened at 1:03 p.m. as follows:

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund, Rinke Noonan Law Firm Attorneys John Kolb

Kale Van Bruggen, SWCD Board members Frank Sindelir, John Sonstegard, Russ Hanson and Nancy Dunell, and Mike Hirst to discuss an appeal of the Department of Natural Resources of a project specific wetland replacement for Northern Conservation L.L.C. and Cliffs Mining Company (jointly Cliffs). The boards reviewed the partial settlement of appeal in the Matter of Hibbing Taconite Mine and Stockpile Progression and Williams Creek Project Specific Wetland Mitigation.

Resolution

At a joint meeting of the Board of Commissioners and Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board of Supervisors, Commissioner Ken Moorman, on behalf of the County Board and Supervisor Frank Sindelir, on behalf of the SWCD Board, moved the adoption of the following resolution ratifying the actions of Josh Stromlund, as previously authorized by the Boards:

STATE OF MINNESOTA

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

RESOLTUION NO. 15-10-03

Resolution ratifying partial settlement of appeal in the Matter of Hibbing Taconite Mine and Stockpile Progression and Williams Creek Project Specific Wetland Mitigation

At a joint meeting of the Board of Commissioners and Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board of Supervisors, Commissioner Ken Moorman, on behalf of the County Board and Supervisor Frank Sindelir, on behalf of the SWCD Board, moved the adoption of the following resolution ratifying the actions of Josh Stromlund, as previously authorized by the Boards:

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners and the Lake of the Woods County Soil and Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors authorized and entered into an appeal of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) approval of a project specific wetland replacement plan for Cliffs Natural Resources (Cliffs); and

WHEREAS, the matter was set for a Contested Case Hearing on evidentiary issues before an Administrative Law Judge on October 5, 2015; and

WHEREAS, each of the above Boards directed Josh Stromlund serve as its representative at the Hearing, giving to Josh Stromlund authority to settle issues in the matter on terms found satisfactory to Josh Stromlund; and

WHEREAS, during the Contested Case Hearing, DNR and Cliffs agreed to terms of settlement related to wetland crediting that addressed major concerns of the Boards; and

WHEREAS, exercising the authority given to him, Josh Stromlund accepted the terms of settlement and executed a settlement agreement, attached hereto, on behalf of the Boards.

NOW, THEREFORE, having reviewed the settlement agreement, the terms thereof and the facts and arguments in the case, the Boards, by joint action, ratify the settlement agreement and the actions of Josh Stromlund pursuant to the authority given him by the Boards.

Seconded by Commissioner James “Buck” Nordlof, on behalf of the County Board and Supervisor Russel Hansen, on behalf of the SWCD Board.

After discussion and upon a vote of each Board, the respective Board Chairs declared the Resolution adopted.

Attorneys John Kolb and Kale Van Bruggen recommend to the board to go into closed session to discuss further litigation strategy.

CLOSED SESSION

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by  Commissioner Nordlof to close the regular meeting at 1:40 p.m. pursuant to MN Statute §13D.05, subd. 3 (b), Attorney Client Privilege.

Members present were: Commissioner Arnesen, Moorman, Beckel, Hanson and Nordlof, SWCD Board members Frank Sindelir, John Sonstegard, Russ Hanson and Nancy Dunell, Mike Hirst, Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund and County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson. Attorneys John Kolb and Kale Van Bruggen.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to close the closed session at 2:00 p.m. and open the regular meeting.

CLOSED SESSION

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman to close the regular meeting at 2:20 p.m.  Pursuant to MN Stat. §13D.003, subd. 1 (b) Labor Negotiations. Members present, Commissioner Arnesen, Moorman, Beckel, Hanson and Nordlof. Also present, Human Resource Director, Karen Ose.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof to close the closed session at 2:54 p.m. and open the regular meeting.

CORRESPONDENCE

The board acknowledged a thank you letter from Lake of the Woods Senior boating.

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 3:06 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved: October 27, 2015

__________________________________                                        ______________________________

Lorene Hanson, County Auditor/Treasurer                                        Edward Arnesen

Chairman of the Board

======================================================================================================== 

Commissioner Proceedings

October 27, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, October 27, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Buck Nordlof, Ken Moorman, Tom Hanson, Patty Beckel and Ed Arnesen. Also present were:  County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Janet Rudd, County Attorney, James Austad and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Proclamation, Water, Health & Life Insurance, Department head meeting update, Human Resources, Final Payment and Thank you letter. APPROVAL of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda as follows:  Joanna Onstad and Alison Hauger to St. Cloud on November 2-3, 16-17 and November 30 thru December 1 for Child Welfare foundation Training;

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of October 13, 2015 with changes.

NWA EDGE RIDERS

Kellie Knight, representing the NWA Edge Riders snowmobile club met with the board to discuss the proposed park with the board. Kellie informed the board that the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is considering transferring State Owned land to the County for the potential park with approval and associated cost. Kellie informed the board that the club has not received the letter from the DNR at this time. The consensus of the board was that they were in support of a park, but would need more information before formally agreeing to this project.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Social Service Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 13,203.81

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 17,158.72

Credit Cards

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard requested approval for a county credit card for Social Worker, Alison Hauger and introduced Social Workers Alison Hauger and Joanna Onstad to the board.

Motion  

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve a county credit card for Social Worker, Alison Hauger.

Proclamation- FINANCIAL worker, case Aides

Chairman Arnesen, on behalf of Lake of the Woods County board of Commissioners recognizes the valuable service that County Financial Workers and Case Aides provide to citizens of Lake of the Woods County and extends appreciation to Angie Eason, Cassie Brune, Shelley Phillippe, Shelley Pepera and Sheri Stebakken for their dedicated work.

County Surveyor

County Surveyor, Donn Rasmussen met with the board to discuss the cost associated with the Schrandt Cartway and informed the board that it would cost around $7,000 to complete the survey. The board requested that County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson contact the Schrandts’ attorney, Nora Crompton to request an additional $4,000 bond before the survey could be completed.

AUDITOR/TREASURER

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

Revenue                      $  60,779.54

                                                Road & Bridge           $   30,653.31

                                                Co. Develp                  $    2,500.00

                                                Solid Waste                 $    7,136.73

EDA                            $       701.57

                                      101,771.15

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 10/27/2015 For Payment 10/30/2015

Vendor Name                                                  Amount

Fundanet/Lee                                                                   2,000.00

LaValla Electric DBA/Ned                                                2,106.79

Liberty Tire Recycling, LLC                                            4,316.20

LOW Soil & Water Cons. Dist.                                     30,873.00

Mn State Dept-Correction                                             16,979.93

Traffic Marking Service, Inc.                                         24,692.67

63 Payments less than 2000 20,802.56

Final Total:   101,771.15

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

                                                October         14, 2015                        $81,034.65

                                                October         14, 2015                        $     199.79

                                                October         20, 2015            $  9,721.39

                                                                                                $90,955.83

MN Department of Transportation

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board to inform them that the MN Department of Transportation (MnDOT), is acquiring an interest for an temporary easement in Lake of the Woods County property for the improvements of Trunk Highway 11, with the acquisition of $500.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the following Resolution:

RESOLUTION NO. 15-09-04

State of Minnesota, Department of Transportation, Acquisition of Land

BE IT RESOLVED, by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, of the County of Lake of the Woods, Minnesota, which in consideration of $500 to be paid by the State of Minnesota, Department of Transportation, the Lake of the Woods County Board allows the acquisition of land by direct purchase to the State of Minnesota the parcel described as follows:

The right to use the westerly 18 feet of the northerly 17 feet of Tract A described below for highway purposes, which right shall cease on December 1, 2017, or on such earlier date upon which the Commissioner of Transportation determines by formal order that it is no  longer needed for highway purposes: Tract A.  Lot 12, Block 1, Third Addition to East Beaudette, according to the plat thereof which is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Moorman and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson, and Chairman Arnesen to sign the Temporary Easement from the State of MN, Department of Transportation to be used for highway purposes

Revenue/Expenditure/Investment Update

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board and reviewed the Revenue/Expenditure and Investments. The board also discussed the Wells Fargo banking charges.

Deputy Registrar Re-Appointment

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board and informed the board that the State of Minnesota Department of Public Safety requested re-appointment of Deputy Registrar for Lake of the Woods County.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof to re-appoint Janet Rudd as Lake of the Woods County Deputy Registrar and Driver’s License Agent pursuant to MN Administrative Rules 7404.0350 and 7406.0350.

Health Insurance Rates

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board to inform the board that the Life Insurance carrier is now Sun Life Financial, health insurance premiums High Plan and Value Plan have gone up 7%, but the HSA premium stayed the same and the all single plans still remain under the county cap.

Department Head Meeting/Water Machine

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board to update them on the department head meeting and the discussion they had on the annual “Lake of the Woods Food Drive”. The department heads agreed they would participate and were wondering if the Commissioners would like to participate as a team. The board agreed they would participate in the food drive. Lorene also mentioned that the Wellness Committee had asked about the possibility of having a water machine available for county employees in the break room.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and unanimously carried to authorize water machines in the Courthouse break room and Sheriff’s office.

HUMAN RESOURCES

Job Description

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board to inform them that MRA graded the Appraiser Training at grade 9, points 225 and the Appraiser at grade 13, points 289. Karen informed the board that the job descriptions have been completed and reformatted and that the Department Heads have them to review. The board requested that the Job Descriptions be placed on the December 15 board agenda for approval.

Stipend

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board requesting a stipend for Social Services Financial Officer, Christine Hultman for time spent helping with financials and payroll in the Auditor/Treasurers Office. Stipend would be from January thru September at $175 per pay period with a total stipend of $3,500.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to authorize a stipend payment of $3,500 from the revenue fund to Social Services Financial Officer, Christine Hultman.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 10:43 p.m. and reconvened at 11:05 a.m. as follows:

COUNTY ASSESSOR

Years of Service Recognition-Resolution

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

Recognition of years of service

Joy Lindquist

Resolution 2015 – 10– 05

Whereas:  Joy Lindquist has served the residents of Lake of the Woods County since November 1, 1982 as Lake of the Woods Assessment Specialist/Office Manager;

Whereas:  Joy Lindquist will retire from Lake of the Woods County service effective October 31, 2015 with thirty–three years of service for Lake of the Woods County Assessor’s Office;

Now Therefore, Be it Resolved:  That Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners extends its deepest appreciation to Joy for her dedicated service and  offers best wishes to her;

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

Introduction of Staff

County Assessor, MaryJo Otten introduced Alisa Jacobsen and Whitnie Reasy to the board.

Effective Date of Hire

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve October 19, 2105 as the effective date of hire for Whitnie Reasy.

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting approval for final contract.

Final Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve final contract acceptance for SAP 39-601-28, SAP 39-601-29, and SAP 39-627.04 in the amount of $147,548.57.

Mulching Attachment

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting approval to purchase a mulching attachment for the department.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to authorize Public Works Director, Tim Erickson to purchase a ProMac Mulching attachment in the amount of $28,500.

Cell Phone Stipend

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting a cell phone stipend for Solid Waste Processer, Todd Canfield.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve a smart phone stipend in the amount of $60.00 per month for Todd Canfield. Public Access-Furnace Replacement

The board discussed Twin Rivers Public Access and new Furnace for the NWA Highway shop.

BUFFER DISCUSSION

Chairman Arnesen discussed the recent 2015 buffer legislation that was passed this session. Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund presented a “Buffer Law And Frequently Asked Questions Brochure” to the board. After review, the board requested Josh to send a letter to Board of Water and Soil Resources Chairman, Brian Napstad requesting a meeting to discuss this new legislation.

2016 CON CON FUNDS

The board tabled the Con Con funds request to have time to review and placed this on the November 10, 2015 board agenda.

CORRESPONDENCE

The board acknowledged a thank you letter from Williams Potato Day.

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 12:10 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved: November 10, 2015

__________________________________                                        ______________________________

Lorene Hanson, County Auditor/Treasurer                                        Edward Arnesen

Chairman of the Board

September, 2015

Commissioner Proceedings

September 8, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, September 8, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to order at 7:40 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Ed Arnesen, Buck Nordlof, Ken Moorman, Tom Hanson, and Patty Beckel. Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Janet Rudd, County Attorney, James Austad and Woody Fiala.

2016 Budget

County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson met with the board to review the 2016 Budget.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof’, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: NW MN Foundation and Co. Rd 17.

APPROVAL of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda as follows: Sheri Stebakken to St. Paul on September 28-October 1, for MEC2 Case Worker; Karen Ose to St. Paul on September 24 -25 for Data Practices Policies & Procedures.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of August 25, 2015.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Social Service Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 16,348.16

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 15,908.91

Office Furniture

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard requested approval for purchase of office equipment for Child Support Officer, due to the remodeling of office. Amy informed the board that the office equipment is reimbursed by 66% by the Federal Government.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of office equipment for Child Support Officer in the amount up to $5,000.

Amend Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to amend the agenda and add permission to hire Social Workers.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to authorize Social Service Director, Amy Ballard and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose to hire two Social Workers.

Recognition of Years of Service

Chairman Arnesen, on behalf of the board congratulated Cindy Kroeger on her retirement and offered the following resolution:

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to adopt the following:

Recognition of years of service

Cindy Kroeger

Resolution 2015 – 09– 01

Whereas:  Cindy Kroeger has served the residents of Lake of the Woods County since December 11, 1989  as Lake of the Woods Case Aid Worker and Santa Anonymous Program Coordinator;

Whereas:  Cindy Kroeger has retired from Lake of the Woods County service effective August 27, 2015 with twenty-five years of service;

Now Therefore, Be it Resolved:  That Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners extends its deepest appreciation to Cindy for her dedicated service and  offers best wishes  to her on her retirement;

HOFFMAN, PHILIPP & KNUTSON, PLLC

Colleen Hoffman, manager of Hoffman, Philipp & Knutson, PLLC met with the board and reviewed the 2014 audit and informed them that the auditing of the financial statements of the governmental activities, major funds and the aggregate remaining fund information for the county is in good standing.

BAUDETTE AREA ARENA INC.

Barry Westerlund, Vice President of Operation for the Baudette Area Arena Inc. met with the board requesting a resolution of support for Mighty Ducks Grant to help with the replacement of the R22 systems, including floor replacement in existing arena.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to adopt the following:

Resolution of LGU Mighty Ducks Grant Application

Resolution No. 15-09-02

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission (MASC), via the State General Fund, provides for general funds to assist political subdivision of the State of Minnesota for the development of sport facilities, and

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County on behalf of Baudette Area Arena Inc. desires to replace direct R22 Systems, including floor replacement in existing arena;

  1. Estimates that the total cost of developing said facility shall be $ 800,000 and Lake of the Woods County on behalf of Baudette Area Arena Inc. is requesting $400,000 from the Mighty Ducks Grant Fund and the Baudette Area Arena Inc. will assume responsibility for a match requirement of $400,000.
  2. Baudette Area Arena Inc. agrees to own, assume 100 percent operation costs for said facility, and will operate said facility for its intended purpose for the functional life of the facility which is estimated to be 30 years.
  3. Lake of the Woods County on behalf of Baudette Area Arena Inc. agrees to enter into necessary and required agreements with the MASC for the specific purpose of renovating a sports facility and long-term project direction.
  4. That a request for reimbursement be made to the MASC for the amount awarded after the completion of the project.
  5. That the Lake of the Woods County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson and Lake of the Woods County Commissioners are authorized and directed to execute said application and serve as the official liaison with the MASC.

MIGHTY DUCKS GRANT APPLICATION, MINNESOTA AMATEUR SPORT COMMISSION

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson to sign the Mighty Ducks Grant application.

auditor/treasurer

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                           Revenue                      $   80,861.80

                                                Road & Bridge            $  17,260.53

                                                County Devel              $       231.40    

Solid Waste                 $  24,746.89

EDA                            $         44.56

       WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 9/8/2015 for Payment 9/11/2015

Vendor Name                                     Amount

Computer Professionals Unlimited Inc                                   3,466.50

Hoffman, Philipp & Knutson, PLLC                          8,963.00

Howard’s Oil Company                                            3,160.77

LOW Highway Dept                                                  4,163.63

LOW Soil & Water Cons. Dist.                               20,118.00

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                        12,362.40

Olson/George                                                         13,800.00

Pieper Cleaning & Services- dba/Kevin                                  2,194.00

Powerplan                                                                  5,979.75

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                                  6,310.20

Tops All Roofing LLC                                             23,952.10

Woody’s Service                                                       4,395.95

43 Payment less than  2000                               14,260.88                                                                               Final Total:                                                123,127.18       

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

                                                  September 2, 2015                 $      (60.00)

                                                  September 2, 2015                 $137,929.84

September 4, 2015                  $   (783.44)

                                                  September 4, 2015                  $      846.07

September 4, 2015                  $519,771.30

                                                  September 4, 2015                  $       783.44

NW ANGLE POTENTIAL AIRPORT

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board and presented the Notice of Decision of the wetland delineation boundary for the potential NW Angle airport location. She explained that the delineation was part of the work scope for the preliminary engineering and requires official review and approval by the Technical Evaluation Panel consisting of the LGU, SWCD and BWSR. This approval allows us to determine mitigation efforts in conjunction with the construction, if the project advances to that point.

NW MN Foundation

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board informing them that they received a request for support from NW MN Foundation. They have served Lake of the Woods County with grants, business loans along with Leadership Development Training, Star Youth Leaderships and Nonprofit Management training. The board requested this to be placed with the 2016 con-con fund requests.

DEPUTY AUDITOR/ TREASURER/FINANCIAL OFFICER

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval for grade and step for the newly Hired Deputy Auditor/Treasurer/Financial Officer. Humans Resource Director, Karen Ose and County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson requested step 2.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to set Deputy Auditor/Treasurer/Financial Officer at grade 12, step 2, $19.90 per hour, points 282, and effective start date September 14, 2015.

CORRESPONDENCE:     The following correspondence was acknowledged: Senior Boating and Charles Dawley letter regard to Paul Bunyan Transit service area.

SHERIFF

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting approval for the State of Minnesota ATV grant.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to authorize County Sheriff, Gary Fish to enter into the ATV grant with the State of Minnesota, Department of Natural Resources effective August 15, 2015 thru June 30, 2017, the county will get reimbursed up to $13,108 in State Fiscal year 2016 and up to $13,108 in State Fiscal year 2017, for expenses incurred between July 1, 2016, and June 30, 2017, the grant will not exceed $26,216.

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and presented the Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan for approval.

Resolution

The following resolution was proposed by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to adopt the following:

RESOLUTION TO APPROVE COMPREHENSIVE SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN

RESOLUTION. 15-09-03

WHEREAS, the State of Minnesota requires Counties to develop and adopt a Solid Waste Plan in accordance with Minnesota Statutes 115A.46; 115A.47; 115A.551, subd. 6-7; 115A.552; 115A.557, subd. 2-3; 115A.63; 115A.84; 115A.914; 115A.96, subd. 6-7; 115A.917; 115A.97; Minnesota Rules 9215; and any other applicable Statutes and Rules; and;

WHEREAS, the State of Minnesota requires said Solid Waste Plans to be reviewed and/or modified periodically.  Said timeline for Solid Waste Plan update is every 10 calendar years;

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County recognizes the need and responsibility to plan for and practice environmentally sound methods for managing its solid waste streams; and;

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County recognizes the need to plan for and implement various strategies, programs, or facilities, to promote the proper management and disposal of solid waste generated within the County.  The County will encourage reduction, reuse, recycling, composting, and/or advanced processing of solid waste with technologies available based upon the type of solid waste material generated and the capability of the integrated solid waste management system in place; and;

WHEREAS, the draft 2015 Lake of the Woods County Solid Waste Plan does describe the integrated solid waste management system currently in place to meet the needs of the County’s citizens and the requirements of the State of Minnesota; and;

WHEREAS, the State of Minnesota has placed on public notice that draft of the 2015 Lake of the Woods County Solid Waste Plan in accordance with the requirements for publication, notice and comment period; and;

WHEREAS, upon completion of the public comment period, no comments were received in objection to the adoption of the draft 2015 Lake of the Woods County Solid Waste Plan;

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby adopts the 2015 Lake of the Woods County Solid Waste Plan; and;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby submit the 2015 Lake of the Woods County Solid Waste Plan to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency for final approval pursuant to applicable Minnesota Statutes and Rules.

COUNTY ROAD 17

Chairman Arnesen discussed concerns of a curve on County Road 17 where they took out gravel and the depth of the hole. The board requested that Public Works Director, Tim Erickson look into option on this and look into the cost of a guard rail.

NORTH COUNTRY FOOD BANK INC.

Susie Novak, Executive Director from North Country Food Bank met with the board requesting a resolution of support for bonding for construction for a new Food Bank building. She explained that they service 21 counties in their territory and their space is very limited and in need of a new building along with refrigeration space.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to adopt the following resolution;

       North Country Food Bank Inc.

Resolution No. 2015-09-04

WHEREAS; North Country Food Bank, Inc. (North Country) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization located in the City of Crookston, County of Polk, State of Minnesota.  North Country has a profound regional impact on hunger issues – serving 21 counties in northwest and west central Minnesota; and

WHEREAS; North Country provides over 7 million pounds of surplus, quality food and nonfood products to 220 charitable organizations for distribution to people in need.  The charitable food programs served by North Country include soup kitchens, food shelves, homeless shelters, low-income individuals in need of supplemental assistance, senior community centers, after-school programs, domestic abuse programs, and addiction treatment centers; and

WHEREAS; North Country provides an important service that impacts the lives of many in northwest and west central Minnesota; and 

WHEREAS; North Country’s current facility provides space, storage, access and compliance challenges.  North Country must move its operations to a new facility to better and more efficiently serve the population in northwest and west central Minnesota, and to comply with the contractual obligations and safety requirements of Feeding America, state and federal regulations, and the requirements of other governing agencies; and

WHEREAS; North Country is in a position to pursue a new facility building construction project and capital fundraising campaign, including a proposition to partner with Polk County to pursue a $3 million State of Minnesota Bonding Request in the 2015 and 2016 Bonding Bill.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT; the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby support North Country in its efforts to secure capital funding from the State legislature, so it may continue to provide this very important community service to northwest and west central Minnesota.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 11:26 a.m. and reconvened at 11:34 a.m. as follows:

2016 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy and Truth N Taxation Meeting Date

Chairman Arnesen reviewed the proposed budget and tax levy with the board.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to adopt the following:

Resolution Adopting

Proposed 2016 Budget and Tax Levy

Resolution   2015-09-05

WHEREAS, the Proposed County Budget for the year 2016 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 2016:

Revenue Fund                                               $ 1,433,715

Road & Bridge Fund                                    $    449,580

Social Services Fund                                     $    603,935

Economic Development Authority Fund    $      60,000

2015 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy         $ 2,547,230

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the following amounts be levied against the unorganized townships of Lake of the Woods County for 2016:

                        Twp Road & Bridge                                     $   437,555*

                        Twp Fire – Baudette                                      $     25,000

                        Twp Fire – Williams                                      $     31,226

                        Twp Fire – NW Angle                                   $       6,500

                        Total                                                               $   500,281

2016                

$437,555 for Township Road & Bridge includes $12,000 which is specifically levied to Northwest Angle residents for Calcium Chloride.  (425,555+12,000=437,555)

A public meeting to discuss the 2016 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy will be held on Tuesday, December 15, 2015, at 6:00 p.m. in the Lake of the Woods County Commissioners’ Room.

Old/New Business

Commissioner Hanson discussed the meeting he attended for the International Bridge replacement meeting, construction to begin in 2018.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 11:55 a.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m. as follows:

SCHRANDT CARTWAY HEARING

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and  carried unanimously to close the regular meeting at 1:01 p.m. and open the continuance public hearing for Schrandt Cartway. The following were in attendance: Commissioners Hanson, Nordlof, Moorman, Arnesen and Beckel. County Attorney James Austad, County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Janet Rudd, Woody Fiala, Mary and David Schrandt, Attorney Nora Crumpton, Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund and Paul Pedersen.

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

Resolution Establishing a Cartway for Petitioners David and Mary Schrandt

Bifurcating Cartway Hearing to determine Award of Damages

Requiring Petitioners to Post Bond or other Security

Resolution No. 15-09-06

WHEREAS; the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners has received a cartway petition pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 164.08, from David and Mary Schrandt  “petitioner” in which the petitioner asks the County Board to establish a cartway to their property across the lands of others; and

WHEREAS; petitioner has been represented by Nora Crumpton, Attorney at Law; and

WHEREAS, the petitioner’s property is described as follows:  SW¼, Sec. 2, Twp. 160 N., Range 33 W; and

WHEREAS; the petitioner asks that a cartway be established as follows:

ROUTE 1:  The West two (2) rods of the Northeast Quarter (NE¼) of Section Two (2), Township One Hundred Sixty (160) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West; and the West two (2) rods of the Northwest Quarter of the Southeast Quarter (NW¼ SE¼) of said Section Two (2), Township One Hundred Sixty (160) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West.

WHEREAS; the requested cartway would pass over the land of the following persons, Gary G. Pulkrabek, whose property is described as follows:  Government Lot Two (2), Southwest Quarter of the Northeast Quarter (SW¼NE¼) and the West half of the Southeast Quarter (W½SE¼), Section Two (2); Township one hundred sixty (160) North, Range Thirty-Three west of the Fifth Principal Meridian;

WHEREAS; on July 28, 2015, after proper posting and notice, a hearing on the cartway petition was heard by the Lake of the Woods County Board; and

WHEREAS; the County Board finds that, pursuant to Minn. Stat. §164.08, subd. 2 (a), the petitioner owns a tract of land containing at least five acres and has no access from it to a public road except over the lands of others; and

WHEREAS; the petitioner is therefore entitled to the establishment of a cartway pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 164.08. subd. 2 (a);

WHEREAS; the County Board, after hearing evidence and arguments from the petitioner and the affected landowner, requested that the hearing be deferred to September 8, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. and instructed Attorney Crumpton to personally serve Paul Pedersen, whose property is described as follows: South Half Northwest Quarter (S2NW4) and Government Lots 3 & 4, Section 2, Township 160 North, Range 33 West.

WHEREAS; on September 8, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. the Lake of the Woods County Board reconvened the public hearing on the cartway petition, after proper posting and notice.

WHEREAS; the County Board had heard evidence on previous submission by the Petitioner and decided that an alternate route should be established.

WHEREAS; the requested cartway would pass over the land of one person, and the alternate cartway would pass over the land of the following persons, Gary G. Pulkrabek, whose property is described as follows:  Government Lot Two (2), Southwest Quarter of the Northeast Quarter (SW¼NE¼) and the West half of the Southeast Quarter (W½SE¼), Section Two (2); Township one hundred sixty (160) North, Range Thirty-Three west of the Fifth Principal Meridian; and Paul Pedersen, whose property is described as follows: South Half Northwest Quarter (S2NW4) and Government Lots 3 & 4, Section 2, Township 160 North, Range 33 West.

WHEREAS; the County Board heard evidence and arguments from the petitioner, the affected landowners and members of the public regarding the question of what damages, if any, should be paid to the owners and occupants across whose land(s) the cartway will be established, and regarding what damages the county has incurred as costs and expenses related to these proceedings;

WHEREAS, the petitioner is responsible for any and all cost of wetland mitigation;

NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS RESOLVED AND ORDERED;

  1. A cartway pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 164.08, subd. 2 (a) is established, subject to the terms and conditions that follow, the terms and conditions in the award of damages, and the payment of all damages.
  2. The Lake of the Woods County Board finds that the following location and width of the cartway is the least disruptive and least damaging for neighboring landowners and in the public’s best interest;
  3. The East 16.5 feet of the NW¼ Sec 2, Twp 160, Range 33 and the West 16.5 feet of the NE¼ of Sec. 2, Twp 160, Range 33, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota.
  4. Prior to opening or constructing the cartway, the petitioner shall pay to the county all items described below as damages for the establishment of the cartway.
    • Survey                                     $ 3,000
  5. Town road and bridge funds shall not be expended for this cartway.

The resolution was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the vote carried as follows:

Voting For:     Commissioners Arnesen, Beckel, Nordlof, Moorman and Hanson

Voting Against: None

Abstaining:         None

The David and Mary Schrandt cartway petition is stayed until the security is deposited with Lake of the Woods County Auditor/Treasurer.

Lake of the Woods County

Dated: ___________________                      __________________________________________

                                                                        Edward Arnesen, Chairman of the Board

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 2:48 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved: September 22, 2015

______________________                                                                ______________________________

Lorene Hanson                                                                                    Edward Arnesen

Auditor/Treasurer                                                                                Chairman of the Board

======================================================================================

Commissioner Proceedings

September 22, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, September 22, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Vice -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 Buck Nordlof, Ken Moorman, Tom Hanson, and Patty Beckel. Absent- Commissioner Ed Arnesen. Also present were:  Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Janet Rudd, County Attorney, James Austad and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Mid State Co-op Appointment.

APPROVAL of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda as follows: – Mary Jo Otten to Brainerd on October 4-7 for MAAO Conference; Craig Severs to St. Cloud on October 4-7 for MFSRC Fall Conference.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of September 8, 2015.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Social Service Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 19,047.43

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 22,934.72

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $   1,200.00

Social Workers

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard requested approval to hire two new Social Workers, Joanna Onstad and Alison Hauger.

Motion  

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the hiring of Social Worker, Trainee, Joanna Onstad, effective date September 28, 2015 at grade 12, step 1, $19.45, points 282 and Child Protection Social Worker, Alison Hauger, effective date October 12, 2015 at grade 12, step 1, $19.45, points 282,( reliant  upon continuance of funding from the State of Minnesota,  which was passed by the 2015  Minnesota Legislature for child protection staffing and services.) 

auditor/treasurer

Claims

Deputy Auditor/Treasurer, Janet Rudd met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                           Revenue                      $   14,278.24

                                                Road & Bridge           $   74,969.94

                                                Natl Resc Enhanc       $     3,113.53    

Solid Waste                 $    5,514.49

EDA                            $    2,570.00

                                       100,446.20

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 9/22/2015 For Payment 9/25/2015

Vendor Name                                                          Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                          9,851.84

Farmers Union Oil Co.                                                   3,624.30

Hasler                                                                               2,000.00

Northwest Community Action, Inc                                 2,570.00

Rinke-Noonan                                                                 3,113.53

Titan Energy Systems, Inc                                             2,060.00

Wikstrom Telephone Co.,Inc                                       56,702.20

Ziegler, Inc                                                                      4,201.46

45 Payments less than 2000   16,322.87

Final Total:  100,446.20

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

                                                  September 11, 2015               $   253,560.02

                                                  September 16, 2015               $1,349,879.80

NW MN Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #8

Deputy Auditor/Treasurer, Janet Rudd met with the board and presented an application for a temporary gaming permit for the NW MN Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #8.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the application for exempt permit for NW MN Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #8 to conduct lawful gambling for raffles on February 22, 2016 at Sportsman’s Lodge.

MID STATE COMPUTER COOPERATIVE

Deputy Auditor/Treasurer, Janet Rudd met with the board requesting appointment of delegates to the Mid State Computer Cooperative.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to appoint MIS/GIS Director, Peder Hovland as delegate #1, and County Assessor, Mary Jo Otten, as delegate #2 to the Mid State Computer Cooperative as representatives for Lake of the Woods County

COUNTY ATTORNEY

County Attorney, James Austad met with the board and gave the following updates: Leader Ship Forum

Drug Sentencing, Court Room- Cameras, Felon Voting Rights, MPCA, Drug Free Community Grant.

HUMAN RESOURCES

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board requesting authorization to hire Part-time Dispatcher.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to authorize Human Resource Director, Karen Ose and County Sheriff, Gary Fish to hire a part-time dispatcher at grade 10, step 1 $17.34 , points 237.

SHERIFF

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting approval for the I Mobile Contract.

Resolution

COUNTY OF LAKE OF THE WOODS

RESOLUTION TO ENTER INTO A JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT WITH THE

 STATE OF MINNESOTA

FOR I/MOBILE SYSTEM

Resolution No. 15-06- 07

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously the following resolution:

WHEREAS, Sheriff Gary Fish has met with Lake of the  Woods County Board to discuss mobile data computing between the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Department and the State of Minnesota; and

WHEREAS, the purpose of this agreement is for the State to provide Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Department with access to the State’s I/Mobile System; thru software purchased and installed by the county on county laptop computers mounted in the patrol vehicles; and

WHEREAS, the term of this agreement shall be from January 1, 2015(or the date the State obtains all required signatures) thru December 31, 2016;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby adopts this joint powers agreement and authorizes Chairman Arnesen and County Sheriff, Gary Fish to sign.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 9:55 a.m. and reconvened at 10:08 a.m. as follows:

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Land and Water Planning Assistant Zoning Inspector, Steve Sindelir met with the board and presented an application for a Zone Change from Residential/Natural Environment to Commercial -Recreation for Dale and Connie Peterson to allow the applicant to conduct a commercial business consisting of a Commercial- Recreational Area. Steve informed the board that the Planning Commissions did approve the application with conditions. Steve reviewed the Finding and Facts with the board:

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the Zone Change from Residential/Natural Environment to Commercial-Recreation for Dale and Connie Peterson to allow the applicants to conduct a commercial business consisting of a Commercial-Recreational Area with the following conditions: Follow State guidelines and County guidelines.

Lake of the Woods County

Rezoning

Findings of Fact and Decision

INFOINFOINFOINFO
Name of Applicant:Dale and Connie Peterson – ApplicantRichard Babler – OwnerDate:September 9, 2015
 
Location/Legal Description:A 4 acre tract in the NE corner of Govt. Lot 3 of Section 5 and a 210’ x 448’ tract in the NW4NE4 of Section 8, T-163N, R-34W, (Lakewood Township)
 
Current Zoning Classification:Residential/Natural EnvironmentProposed:Commercial-Recreation
 
Parcel Number(s):14.05.31.010 & 14.0812.010Application Number:15-07ZC

The Planning Commission shall consider all facts from all sources prior to submitting a recommendation to the County Board relating to a proposed zone change. Its judgment shall be based upon, but not limited to the following factors as applicable.

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

 _X_ Yes __No

COMMENTS:COMMENTS:
Comments:Other commercial property in the area.
 
  1. Are the existing surrounding land uses consistent with the proposed zoning classification?

_Yes  ___No

COMMENTS:COMMENTS:
Comments:Other commercial property in the area.
 
  1. Will the zone change alter the characteristics of the neighborhood?

__­_Yes _X_No

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

_X­_Yes ___No

COMMENTS:COMMENTS:
Comments:Possible increased traffic. Parking areas are planned.
 
  1. What additional public services would be necessitated and would existing utilities be sufficient to accommodate the proposal?

_X_Yes___No

COMMENTS:COMMENTS:
Comments:Electrical – services only.
 
  1. Will the zone change impede the normal or orderly development and improvement of surrounding property for uses permitted in the zoning district?

__­_Yes_X_No

COMMENTS:COMMENTS:
Comments:Consistent with adjacent use.
 
  1. Has there been a change in the development in the general area of the property in questions?

_X_Yes___No

COMMENTS:COMMENTS:
Comments:Increase in resort area.
 

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

__­_Yes_X_No           

COMMENTS:COMMENTS:
Comments: 
 
CONDITIONS:CONDITIONS:
Conditions:Follow State guidelines and County guidelines.
 

The Lake of the Woods County Planning Commission hereby recommends to the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners adopt the above findings and DENY / APPROVE the application for a zone change be WITH / WITHOUT conditions.

_____________________________________                                                   September 9, 2015

                        Tom Mio                                                                                             Date

Chair, Planning Commission

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby adopt the above findings of fact of the Lake of the Woods Planning Commission WITH / WITHOUT modification(s) and DENY / APPROVE the application for a zone change WITH / WITHOUT special conditions.

_________________________________________                 __________________        

Ed Arnesen Chair, County Board of Commissioners

PUBLIC WORKS

County Road 17

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and informed the board that he contacted the MN Department of Safety with assistance on the concern of the corner on County Road 17, the corner is safe; the perception is that it is not. Tim will continue working with the MN Department of Safety on this matter. Tim also informed the board that they had a set back with Class 5 gravel, and are now continuing with the construction project.

 RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 10.54 a.m. and reconvened at 11:00 a.m. as follows:

PUBLIC HEARING, EXCLUSIVE OFF SALE

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting at 11:00 a.m. and open the Public Hearing as advertised pursuant to MN Statue §340A.405, Intoxicating Liquor; Off-Sale Licenses, subd. (d).

Present were:  Commissioners Moorman, Beckel, Hanson and Nordlof. Also present were Deputy Auditor/Treasure, Janet Rudd, and County Attorney, James Austad. Other Public in attendance was Nels Holte, Attorney Eric Nerland and Woody Fiala.

Vice-Chairman Moorman commented that the Public Notice of hearing was advertised for consideration of an Off-Sale Exclusive Liquor License to hear testimony by all parties present,  that this potential exclusive off sale premises will not be within the three mile boundary of any statutory or home rule city that has established a municipal liquor store before August 1, 1991 and is not located within the one mile of any boundary of a statutory or home rule city that had established a municipal liquor store before August 1, 1991. Commissioner Beckel commented that the location of the property Lot 7 & 8, Morris Point Estates is zoned commercial and that is where the potential exclusive off sale building is proposed to be located.  Vice-Chairman Moorman noted that no correspondence had been received for this public hearing.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to close the Public Hearing at 11:05 a.m. and open the regular session.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to allow a potential exclusive off sale license to Nels Holte, contingent upon applying for and Exclusive Off-Sale Liquor License,  that all requirements are met for the approval of the license.

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Vice-Chairman Moorman called the meeting to recess at 11:06 a.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved: October 13, 2015

______________________                                                                ______________________________

Janet E. Rudd                                                                                     Ken MoormanDeputy Auditor/Treasurer                                                                   Vice-Chairman of the Board

August, 2015

Commissioner Proceedings

August 11, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, August 11, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to order at 7:30 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Ed Arnesen, Buck Nordlof, Ken Moorman, Patty Beckel and Tom Hanson.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Janet Rudd and Woody Fiala.

2016 Budget

County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson met with the board to review the 2016 Budget with the board.

Closed Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting at 8:30 a.m., pursuant to MN Stat.§13D.03(b), Union Negotiations. Members present: Commissioners Arnesen, Beckel, Moorman, Hanson and Nordlof. Also

present was Human Resource Director, Karen Ose.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to close the closed session and open the regular meeting at 9:03 a.m.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Consent agenda for travel for Angie Eason, Shelly Phillippe and Cassie Brune; MRCC Survey, Great Northern Transmission Line, and Richard Linder letter.

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda as follows: MaryJo Otten to Morris on August 17-18 for CPU/Computer meeting; Dena Pieper to St. Cloud on September 30, 2015 for Legal Staff Training; Janet Rudd to St. Cloud on September 17-18 for MDRA Conference; Shelley Pepera to St. Cloud on August 16-17for SSIS updates; Heather Blodgett to St. Cloud on August 17-18 for MN Choices Mentor Meeting; Angie Eason and Shelley Phillippe to Grand Forks on August 11-12 for Claims Training; Cassie Brune to Grand Forks on August 12-13 for Claims Training.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of July 28, 2015.

COUNTY SURVEYOR

County Surveyor, Donn Rasmussen met with the board and reviewed projects that were completed and including the re-monumentation projects; located all corners on County Road 17 and located points on County Road 1. Donn informed the board that residents of Lake of the Woods County can call him once a month when he is in Baudette, or they can call him anytime when he is in the Brainerd office.

COUNTY ASSESSOR

County Assessor, MaryJo Otten and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board to inform the board that there will be an opening for the Assistant Assessor at the end of the year and would like to advertise and interview for an Appraiser/Appraiser Trainee.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to authorize County Assessor, MaryJo Otten and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose to re-write job description and advertise and interview for Appraiser/Appraiser Trainee.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Social Service Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 17,012.91

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $   1,783.17

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $   1,434.77

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $      305.70

Paul Bunyan Transit

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard informed the board on the last transit meeting they expanded the service area to a 6 mile radius east and west of the Brink Center.

Hire Case Aid

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board requesting authorization to hire Sheri Stebakken,

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to hire Case Aid, Sheri Stebakken, effective August17, 2015 at grade 8, step 1, $15.45 per hour, points 207.

GREAT NORTHERN TRANSMISSION LINE

Commissioner Hanson informed the board that he attended the Great Northern Transmission line public hearing that was held on August 6 in the matter of the application of Minnesota Power for a route permit and submitted the resolution to the Judge on the preference of the orange route that the county board passed.

auditor/treasurer

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                           Revenue                      $ 21,962.13                            

                                                Road & Bridge            $ 63,526.40

                                                County Devel              $   1,232.00        

Solid Waste                 $ 29,137.29

EDA                            $        44.56 

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

                                                July 31, 2015               $586,370.51

                                                August 4,2015                        $378,648.07

                                                WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 8/11/2015 for Payment 8/14/2015

Vendor Name                                     Amount

Bart’s Trucking Inc                                                                  10,470.00

Earthworks Contracting Inc                                                   12,780.00

Fish/Kevin                                                                10,950.00

Hoffman, Philipp & Knutson, PLLC                          4,120.00

Howard’s Oil Company                                            9,207.99

LOW Highway Dept                                                                  5,812.40

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                        13,497.75

Miovac/Tim                                                              10,110.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                  5,612.75

Woody’s Service                                                       3,961.09

                                Zuercher Technologies, LLC                                                   2,190.00

58 Payments less than  2000                              27,190.40                                                                               Final Total:                                                115,902.38       

Extension Contract

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson presented the 2016 Extension Contract to the board for approval.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to enter into the MN Extension Contract effective January 1, 2016 thru December 31, 2018 and authorize Chairman Arnesen to sign.

Veterans Service Contract

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson presented the 2016 Veterans Service Officer contract to the board for approval.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the following resolution:

Resolution of Lake of the Woods County

County Veterans Service Office Operational Enhancement Grant Program

Resolution No. 15-08-01

BE IT RESOLVED; by Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners enter into the attached Grant Contract with the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) to conduct the following program: County Veterans Service Office Operational Enhancement Grant Program. The grant must be used to provide outreach to the county’s veterans; to assist in the reintegration of combat veterans into society; to collaborate with other social service agencies, educational institutions, and other community organizations for the purpose of enhancing services offered to veterans; to reduce homelessness amount of veterans; and to enhance the operations of the county veterans service office, as specified in Minnesota Law 2013 Chapter 142 Article 4. This Grant should not be used to supplant or replace other funding.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED; by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners that Chairman Arnesen is hereby authorized to execute the Grant Contract for the County Veterans Service Office Operational Enhancement Grant Program, on behalf of Lake of the Woods County.

Cell Phone Stipends

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson presented a request from MIS Director, Peder Hovland for cell phone stipends for smart phones for his office.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to authorize MIS/GIS Director, Peder Hovland and GIS /MIS Specialist, Daniel Fish a cell phone stipend for smart phones in the amount of $60.00 per month.

Amend Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to amend the agenda and add “permission to advertise and interview for Deputy Auditor/Treasurer- Fiscal Officer”.

Fiscal Officer

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board to inform them that they want to repost for Fiscal Officer for the County Auditor/Treasurer’s office.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose to repost, interview and hire for Deputy Auditor/Treasurer- Fiscal Officer as previously approved on July 14, 2015.

County Land Leases/Timber Sales

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board and informed them that County Assessor, MaryJo Otten reviewed the land values in Lakewood Township and that the Tillable land value now is $8.90 per acre and Non-Tillable value is at $7.70 per acre; she also mentioned that she received a request from an individual farmer requesting to lease the non-tillable land. The consensus of the board was that individuals could lease this land for farm use only.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the current land value rates in Lakewood Township for Tillable land at $9.00 per acre and Non-Tillable land at $8.00 per acre with the contract period not more than three years.

Timber Sales

Commissioner Hanson discussed timber sales and county administrative lands (tax forfeited) and the possibility of harvesting timber. The board placed this under Old/New Business.

PUBLIC WORKS

Ditch Update

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson and Assistant Engineer, Boyd Johnson met with the board and updated them on the drainage project. They presented a map of area ditching needs. This will be an on-going project with weekly meetings with drainage as the priority; one-third of the 75 miles of ditch work is on judicial ditches. Other areas of projects consist of road and culverts. The estimated time to get this work completed will be three years.

Approval to Hire

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting permission to hire a heavy equipment operator. Tim informed the board that newly hired Mike Huerd has over seventeen years of heavy equipment experience and is also a certified diesel mechanic. With his years of experience he would like to start him at step 4.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the hiring of Mike Huerd at grade 10, step 4, $18.55 per hour, point 233, effective date of hire August 24, 2015.  

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 10:55 a.m. and reconvened at 11:04 a.m. as follows:

Correspondence

The board reviewed the letter from Richard Linder in regard to the minimum maintenance road. Commissioner Beckel informed the board the she spoke to Public Works Director, Tim Erickson and he will go out and look at it and have it mowed to make it more drivable; acknowledged thank-you letter from the Ubel family.

MRCC SURVEY

Commissioner Beckel reviewed a survey from MRCC with the board for their comments.

LAKEWOOD NURSING SERVICE

Jay Ross, CHI Finance Director met with the board to review the 2016 budget. Staff gave an overview of the programs that LakeWood Nursing Service provides to the community. They discussed the budget, funding sources, operational expenses and grants that they receive; proposed that the board budget for FY 2016 $60,172. He explained that they do not know how much grant money they will receive, but anticipating approximately the same as last year. Jay informed the board that the new contract should be delivered soon. The board requested County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson to assign $65,000 for the 2016 Nursing Service budget.

SHERIFF

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting authorization to enter into Minnesota Department of Public Safety Grant for Emergency Management.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to enter into the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Grant for Emergency Management effective January 1, 2015 thru December 31, 2015 in the amount of $13,044 for planning, wages and benefits for Emergency Management Director.  

Law Enforcement Roof

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board and informed the board that the roof is still leaking after maintenance patched as much as they could. He informed the board that he did get a quote and the cost of replacement of the roof would be around $24,000. He noted that the roof is 30 years old. Chairman Arnesen requested that he come back to the next meeting to discuss this further.

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 11:50 a.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: August 25, 2015

_______________________                                                  _________________________________

Lorene Hanson,                                                                       Chairman of the Board, Edward Arnesen

County Auditor/Treasurer      

=====================================================================================

Commissioner Proceedings

August 25, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, August 25, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen 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, Buck Nordlof, Ken Moorman, and Tom Hanson. Absent, Patty Beckel. Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Janet Rudd and Woody Fiala.

2016 Budget

County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson met with the board to review the 2016 Budget with the board.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Consent agenda for travel for James Austad, credit card, and budget discussion.

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda as follows: Dawn Christianson and Stacy Novak to Morris MN for Auditor/Treasurer Tax meeting on September 15-16; Erik Tange to Duluth for Driver License Agent Training on September 22-23; Janet Rudd and Stacy Novak to Little Falls on October 4-5 for Driver License Agent Training; Dawn Christianson to Bemidji on September 21-22 for Drivers License Agent Training; Jodi Ferrier to East Grand Forks for Foster Care Licensing Training with DHS on September 30-October 1; Boyd Johnson to Brainerd for Mn/DOT’s 2015 Right of Way Professionals Workshop on September 22-25; Tim Erickson to Bemidji for Annual County Engineers’ Seminar on September 9-10;  Leah Larson to Duluth on October 15-16 for Health and Human Service Conference; Daniel Fish to Duluth for GIS Conference on October 7-9; James Austad to Brainerd for Attorney Conference September 10-11.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of August 11, 2015.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Social Service Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 11,321.78

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 25,879.44

Credit Card

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard requested approval for Sheri Stebakken to be issued a County Credit Card.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve a county credit card for Sheri Stebakken.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 9:25 a.m. and reconvened at 9:30 a.m. as follows:

auditor/treasurer

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                           Revenue                      $   14,000.53

                                                Road & Bridge            $280,779.49

                                                County Devel              $   11,041.50     

Solid Waste                 $   10,377.88

EDA                            $     4,209.00 

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 8/25/2015 For Payment 8/28/2015

Vendor Name                                                                Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                               12,317.47

Computer Professionals Unlimited Inc                               3,071.00

Crop Production Service                                                      7,522.39

Holiday                                                                                  2,001.51

Lavalla Sand & Gravel Inc                                                 150,000.00

Liberty Tire Recycling, LLC                                                  4,736.20

M & J Construction Of Holt, Inc.                                       100,011.20

Northwest Community Action, Inc                                        3,428.50

Pro-West & Associates, Inc                                                  2,000.00

Rinke-Noonan                                                                     11,041.50

Ziegler, Inc                                                                          10,603.00

44 Payments less than 2000   13,675.63

Final Total:   320,408.40

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

August 12, 2015                     $   9,203.01

August 17, 2015                     $111,669.03

August 17, 2015                             (14.84)

August 17, 2015                     $    4,927.09

                                                  August 19, 2015                     $       792.30

August19, 2015                      $ 97,555.71

Exclusive Off-Sale

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board informing them that an individual inquired that they would like to apply for an Exclusive Off-Sale license; informed the board the MN Statutes § 340A.405 requires that a public hearing needs to be held on the issuance of this type of license.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to set a Public Hearing for an Exclusive Off-Sale Liquor License for September 22, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. pursuant to MN Statutes §340A.405.

Flu Shots

FLU SHOTS

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board inquiring if the board would like to offer flu shots again this year.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously  to offer flu shots to all county employees for the fall of 2015. The county will only pay for vaccinations that are administered at the Government Center. The county will not pay for offsite vaccinations at any other locations or time.

MIS/GIS

MIS/GIS Director, Peder Hovland met with the board requesting approval to purchase a computer for the Social Service Department.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the purchase for a computer in the amount of $1,051.

SHERIFF

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting approval for roof replacement on the Law Enforcement Center in the amount of $24,872.40.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to authorize County Sheriff to replace the Law Enforcement Center roof in the amount of $24,872.40 from the building fund reserve.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Commissioner Moorman updated the board on the Joint Powers Natural Resource Board Joint Powers Agreement.

Old/New Business

Lessard –Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund

Land Trade-

Aquatic Invasive Species-New Catch and Release Signs

Township Road Inventory

Beaver

Clementson Bridge Property/Water Accesses-Waiting on Lessard Grant Money Meeting

L/W Area Park & Trails-Remove

L/W Broadband/Communications- Remove

NWA  Airport- Meet with MNDOT

HWY 172 N Corridor

Department Head Evaluations

Exit Interviews

Timber Sales

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 10:25 a.m. and reconvened at 10:34 a.m. as follows

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Land and Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund met with the board and presented an application for a Zone Change from Natural Environment to Commercial -Recreation for Dale and Connie Peterson to allow the applicant to conduct a commercial business consisting of a Resort- Recreational Area. Correspondences were acknowledged.  Josh informed the board that the Planning Commissions did approve the application with conditions. Josh reviewed the Finding and Facts with the board:

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, Seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the Zone Change from Natural Environment to Commercial-Recreation for Dale and Connie Peterson to allow the applicants to conduct a commercial business consisting of a Resort-Recreational Area with the following conditions: Follow state guidelines(department of health, wetlands, etc.)

INFO:INFO:INFOINFO
Name of Applicant:Dale and Connie Peterson – ApplicantRichard Babler – OwnerDate:August 12, 2015
 
Location/Legal Description:A 7.45 acre tract in Govt. Lot 2 and the SW¼SE¼ of Section 5, Township 163N, Range 34W (Lakewood Township)
 
Current Zoning Classification:Natural EnvironmentProposed:Commercial-Recreation
 
Parcel Number(s):14.05.31.010Application Number:15-06ZC

The Planning Commission shall consider all facts from all sources prior to submitting a recommendation to the County Board relating to a proposed zone change. Its judgment shall be based upon, but not limited to the following factors as applicable.

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

X Yes  ___No

COMMENTS:COMMENTS:
Comments:Resort and recreational area with commercial property
 
  1. Are the existing surrounding land uses consistent with the proposed zoning classification?

X Yes  ___No

COMMENTS:COMMENTS:
Comments:See #1
 
  1. Will the zone change alter the characteristics of the neighborhood?

__­_Yes X No

COMMENTS:COMMENTS:
Comments:Continued resort/recreational
 
  1. Is there a potential for public health, safety or traffic generation impacts based on the proposed zone change and how will they be addressed?

__­_Yes X No

COMMENTS:COMMENTS:
Comments:About the same as current use
 
  1. What additional public services would be necessitated and would existing utilities be sufficient to accommodate the proposal?

X Yes  ___No

COMMENTS:COMMENTS:
Comments:Electric/sewer and water, must follow guidelines
 
  1. Will the zone change impede the normal or orderly development and improvement of surrounding property for uses permitted in the zoning district?

__­_Yes X No

COMMENTS:COMMENTS:
Comments:It will not impede
 
  1. Has there been a change in the development in the general area of the property in questions?

X Yes  ___No

COMMENTS:COMMENTS:
Comments:Expansion of resorting functions
 

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

__­_Yes X No 

COMMENTS:COMMENTS:
Comments: 
 
CONDITIONSCONDITIONS:
Conditions:Follow state guidelines (Department of Health, wetland, etc)
 

The Lake of the Woods County Planning Commission hereby recommends to the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners adopt the above findings and DENY / APPROVE the application for a zone change be WITH / WITHOUT conditions.

_____________________________________                                                   August 12, 2015

                        Tom Mio                                                                                             Date

Chair, Planning Commission

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby adopt the above findings of fact of the Lake of the Woods Planning Commission WITH / WITHOUT modification(s) and DENY / APPROVE the application for a zone change WITH / WITHOUT special conditions.

_____________________________________                                              ____________________

                        Ed Arnesen                                                                                         Date

Chair, County Board of Commissioners

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting approval to final payment for SAP 39-601-030.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof  and carried unanimously to authorize final payment for Lake of the Woods County (Force Account) in a total of $55,853.00 and herby authorize final payment

Building Committee

Tim updated the board on the Social Services Department office space and reviewed a plan for remodeling for more office space with the board; requested permission to start the remodeling hopefully on Labor Day weekend.

Motion
Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to amend the agenda and add authorization to remodel office space for Social Services Department.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to proceed with the floor plan that was presented to the board for remoldeling of the Social Services Department in the amount of $10,000 from the building reserve fund.

Lake of the Woods Fairgrounds-2016 Budget

Fairground Board members Nicole Hancock, Alana Canfield, Dave Antonson, Otto Lee, Ruth Lee, Joyce Foss and Brenda Rone met with the board requesting additional funds for 2016 budget. They informed the board that they have water issues, gravel work, grand stand to be fixed, canopy work and electrical work.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to levy $25,000 for the 2016 Fairgrounds budget.

Budget

Chairman Arnesen discussed setting up one more budget date, the board set September 8, 2015 at 7:30 a.m.

RECESS

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

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: September 8, 2015

_______________________                                                  _________________________________

Lorene Hanson,                                                                       Chairman of the Board, Edward ArnesenCounty Auditor/Treasurer

July, 2015

Commissioner Proceedings

July 14, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, July 14, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen 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, Buck Nordlof, Ken Moorman, Patty Beckel and Tom Hanson.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor /Treasurer Janet Rudd and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Lost warrant, Paul Bunyan Transit Update, and Hoffman, Philipp & Knutson PLLC letter.

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda as follows: Christine Hultman to Breezy Point on June 24-26 for AMSSA Conference.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of June 23, 2015.

auditor/treasurer

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                           Revenue                      $  42,334.31                             

                                                Road & Bridge            $108,554.86

                                                County Devel              $    2,050.60       

Natl Resc.Enhanc        $       224.90       
Solid Waste                 $  27,816.89        

                                                EDA                             $     3,54.56

                                                Sale/Forf Lands           $        91.98      

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

                                                June 23, 2015              $  21,165.40

                                                July 1,   2015               $408,810.02

                                                July 8,   2015               $  77,626.62

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 7/14/2015 for Payment 7/17/2015

Vendor Name                                     Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                                         11,709.12

Computer Professionals Unlimited Inc                                          9,519.00

Contech Engineered Solutions LLC                            40,271.30

Crop Production Services                                             18,652.21

Fort Distributors Ltd                                                       23,026.50

Howard’s Oil Company                                                   2,581.91

LOW Highway Dept                                                         5,021.25

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                               14,421.15

Mn Counties Information System                                   2,561.25

Northwest Community Action, Inc                                  3,460.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                         3,710.20

Rinke-Noonan                                                                  2,264.90

University Of Mn                                                              9,395.85

Voyageurs Comtronics, Inc                                                            2,640.00

Woody’s Service                                                              6,243.96

69 Payments less than  2000                                     29,099.50                                                                        Final Total:                                                     $ 184,578.10

Deputy Auditor/Driver’s License Clerk-Election

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board requesting authorization to hire and to approve grade and step for the Deputy Auditor/Driver’s License Clerk-Election.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the hiring for the Deputy Auditor/Driver’s License Clerk-Election at grade 10 step 1, $17.34 per hour, points 247.

Fiscal Officer

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting authorization to hire and to approve to approve grade and step for the Fiscal Officer. They explained that they would like to have a range, possibility of candidates experience up to step 3.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the hiring for Fiscal Officer at grade 12, up to step 3- points 276.

Lost Warrant

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requoting approval for a lost warrant for Ginger Cargile, dated December 19, 2014 for $14.84.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the lost warrant for Ginger Cargile, dated December 19, 2014 for $14.80, without furnishing of an indemnifying bond.

2014 Audit -Letter Hoffman, Philipp & Knutson PLLC

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board and informed the board that they received the engagement letter from Hoffman, Philipp, & Knutson, PLLC informing them that they will be auditing the financial statements of the governmental activities, major funds and the aggregate remaining fund information for the county.

HUMAN RESOURCES

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board requesting authorization to have a DocuShred Container and a mountable mail box for her department.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to authorize Human Resource Director to order a DocuShred container and a mountable mail box for the Human Resources department.

Social Services

Claims

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard and Fiscal Officer, Christine Hultman met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 26,268.01

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $   5,672.04

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 32,285.86

Update on Hiring

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard met with the board on the hiring process for the Case Aide position and that just closed; informed the board that in the 2015 Legislative session they mandated and allocated $60,000 per year to hire Child Protection Officer.

PAUL BUNYAN TRANSIT

Social Service Director, Amy Ballard informed the board that she attended the Paul Bunyan Transit meeting which was held on June 24 and stated that the counties are disappointed with the services that they are receiving and that they will be getting together to discuss these issues; service area radius is four (4) miles around Brink Center as defined by Paul Bunyan Transit.

NORTHERN DENTALACCESS CENTER

Northern Dental Access Center Warren Larson, founding member met with the board to seek support for the Northern Dental Access Center for creating a dental home for under service resident of Northern Minnesota. He informed the board that they want to request State Bonding funding to support the construction of a new and larger dental clinic and is requesting a resolution of support.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously:

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners Resolution of Support

Northern Dental Access Center

RESOLUTION NO. 15-07-01

Resolution to support the expansion of Northern Dental Access Center to serve people in need, who live in and around Lake of the Woods County, with dental care

WHEREAS; lack of access to dental care is a common challenge among people experiencing poverty and other life challenges; and

WHEREAS; the lack of adequate dental care negatively affects the health of individuals and the overall health of the County; and

WHEREAS; lack of access to dental care contributes to challenges in worker productivity, childhood learning, and social success among vulnerable and at risk people; and 

WHEREAS; even though many dentists within the region work to meet the need for dental care by all residents, the growing demand among low income and at-risk people, along with reduced Medicaid payments, there remains a significant gap in dental care access in the region; and

WHEREAS; Northern Dental Access Center has successfully served more than 13,000 people in its first six years of operation, with dental care and the patient support services necessary to address barriers to care; and 

WHEREAS; growing demographic projections indicate that the number of low income people who live in and around Lake of the Woods County will number more than 70,000 in the year 2020; and

WHEREAS; the current Northern Dental Access Center facility is housed in a leased facility that has been expanded multiple times with no more capacity to grow in order to adequately meet the growing demand for care.  Parking challenges, ADA compliance issues, high energy costs, lack of adequate administrative and storage space, and lack of patient privacy—all contribute to the growing need for a new facility; and

WHEREAS; a new clinic with updated features and room for expansion will provide for greater number of patients served, higher efficiency in the use of public funds, allow for multiple community partnerships to better serve low income families with dental care and access to other resources to improve their overall health.

NOW, BE IT RESOLVED; that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners supports development of a new facility to house Northern Dental Access Center and its community partners to assure the organization’s long term sustainability and for the purposes of serving greater numbers of low income people in the region with dental care and support services to address barriers to care.

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED; that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners encourages adjacent units of government to resolve similar support of Northern Dental Access Center’s.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 9:50 a.m. and reconvened at 9:59 a.m. as follows:

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Commissioner Nordlof- informed the board on the North Land Use meeting

Commissioner Moorman- informed the board on the Montana Institutes training for Prevention Coalition.

OLD/NEW

Beaver- More trappers on the list

Clementson Property- now transferred to county, near future get parks committee together

NWA- Tribal meeting on July 29

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 10:30 a.m. and reconvened at 11:00 a.m. as follows:

MEDICAL EXAMNIER

Dr. Maryann Sens, Medical Examiner met with the board to give an update on new Legislative changes on Autopsy requirements, which give families religious objectives to autopsy the right to say no, except for traffic fatalities and drug overdoses.

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and informed the board that MPC approved the Solid Waste Plan and now he can move on with the SCORE report and other requirements.

City of Williams –School

The board discussed the Old Williams School and the water flow. Tim informed the board that he has not had time to look at this so far.

Markit Landfill

Manager Dale Nelson, from Markit Landfill met with the board to review the new contract for Solid Waste disposal and informed the board that the contract from 1995 will be expiring and the cost per ton has only increased from $45 a ton, to $50 per ton. The contract was placed on July 28, 2015 board agenda for approval.

County Road 17

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and informed them that the County Road 17 construction project is moving along.

RECESS

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

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: July 28, 2015

_______________________                                                  _________________________________

Lorene Hanson,                                                                       Chairman of the Board, Edward Arnesen

County Auditor/Treasurer      

======================================================================================

Commissioner Proceedings

July 28, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, July 28, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:04 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Ed Arnesen, Buck Nordlof, Ken Moorman, Patty Beckel and Tom Hanson.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor /Treasurer Janet Rudd and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Great Northern Transmission Line, City of Baudette Resolution for housing.

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda as follows: Leah Larson to Walker on September 9-10 for Adult Protection Services Investigation.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of July 14, 2015.

auditor/treasurer

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                           Revenue                      $  46,815.69                             

                                                Road & Bridge            $116,569.25

                                                Social Services            $      (60.00)

                                                County Devel              $    2,304.00       

Natl Resc.Enhanc        $         16.00       
Solid Waste                 $       675.54    

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

                                                July 14, 2015               $362,248.85

                                                July 17, 2015               $  35,462.60

                                                July 21, 2015               $ 12,135.76

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 7/28/2015 for Payment 7/31/2015

Vendor Name                                     Amount

Arrowhead Library System                                     33,118.02

Beckel/Todd                                                              4,624.00

DLT Solutions, Inc                                                                    2,092.74

Esri                                                                             3,900.00

Tri-City Paving Inc                                                                104,753.59

Widseth Smith Nolting&Asst Inc                             2,880.00

44 Payments less than  2000                              14,952.13                                                                               Final Total:                                                166,320.48       

Motor Vehicle Checking Account

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting authorization for adding signatures for the Motor Vehicle Checking account.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson and Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Erik Tange to sign the Motor Vehicle checking account effective August 3, 2015.

Health Insurance Quotes

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson informed the board that she will be requesting quotes for the 2016 Health Insurance rates.

County Land Leases/Timber Sales

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board to discuss county land leases and informed the board that the county has a request to rent some land from the county for farm use. The board requested that the Land Leases be placed on the next agenda with the current value of land, and to discuss county timber sales.

Social Services

Claims

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 20,721.27

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 22,315.21

Paul Bunyan Transit

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard updated the board on the last transit meeting and informed them that it went well and the passes are working fine. They will be meeting this week to discuss expanded service area.

Approval to Advertise and Interview/Hire

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting authorization to advertise and interview for two Social Workers and to promote Jodi Ferrier as the Social Worker Supervisor.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to authorize Social Service Director, Amy Ballard and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose to advertise and Interview for two (2) Social Workers.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to hire Jodi Ferrier as the Social Worker Supervisor effective August 3, 2015, at grade 18, step 1, $27.49, points 406.

Case Aid Position

Social Service Director, Amy Ballard informed the board that they will be interviewing for Case Aid Position on July 30, 2015 and asked for approval to hire. The board requested that she place this on the next agenda for approval.

BRINK CENTER

Arvid Jaranson, Ex-Officio board member met with the board requesting funding from the Senior Nutrient Fund for the Lighting and Ceiling Project at the brink center.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to release $1,967.72 to the Brink Center from the Senior Nutrient Fund. (Note, this was the remaining balance of the Senior Nutrient reserve account).

GREAT NORTHERN TRANSMISSION LINE

Chairman Arnesen informed the board that the Great Northern Transmission Line will be holding a Public Hearing on August 6, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. in the matter of the application of Minnesota Power for a Route Permit for the Great Northern Transmission Line Project.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof to appoint Commissioner Hanson as the Lake of the Woods County Board representative for the Great Northern Transmission Line.

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and requested authorization to enter into a Solid Waste Agreement with Markit Landfill. Tim informed the board that next week Knife River will be in to tar some roads; Heavy Equipment Operator interviews will be next week; Building Committee to meet on August 4 to look at remodeling the offices for  Social Service and Auditor/Treasurers offices; and to discuss the Buildings budget for  2016.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to enter into the Solid Waste agreement as presented with Markit Landfill effective January 1, 2016 and expiring December 31, 2025, and authorizes Chairman Arnesen, County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson to sign.

Paint Care Contract

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and informed them that the Paint Care Contract is due and the Household Hazardous Waste Joint Powers decides if they want to enter into this contract.

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board requesting continuance funding for the Wetland Mitigation. The board requested that when funding is spent on this project that Josh give them updates on the Mitigation process.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the continuance funding for the Wetland Mitigation process and authorize County Auditor/Treasurer to release those funds as needed.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 10:35 a.m. and reconvened at 10:45 a.m. as follows:

WATER ISSUES

Chairman Arnesen welcomed the area farmers and residents to the meeting. Other staff present: Public Works Director Tim Erickson, Assistant County Engineer, Boyd Johnson, Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund, County Attorney, James Austad and County Sheriff, Gary Fish.

Chairman Arnesen informed the group that all comments are to be directed to him. Chairman of the Board informed the group that since the last meeting they have addressed the issue of Judicial Ditch 28 and met with Contracted Ditch Attorney, Kurt Deter, explained that the ditch has been inactive for years and Judicial Ditches are restricted of non-use of public funds for any maintenance or repairs. Chairman Arnesen informed the group that the County Board is the Ditch Authority and they give direction to other departments of what they need. Requested that County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson and Public Works Director Tim Erickson explained where their office is in the process of Judicial Ditch 28.

County Auditor/Treasurer- Lorene informed the group that her office is working on assessments and setting up the original ditch beneficiaries and updating the parcels in the benefited area. Once that is completed they will be able to apply the agreed upon assessment to the beneficiaries. Public Works Director, Tim Erickson informed them that his department is gather information on outlets, other lateral and natural drainage course. Chairman Arnesen opened the floor for comments and concerns of water issues. Issues that were addressed were: Judicial Ditch 28, outlets blocked;  ditches that need to be cleaned out; cost share program for ditch cleaning; permitting, and concerns of County Road 214. The board discussed long term goals- Judicial Ditch 28 assessment completed; Short term goals- access individual ditches and plan out scheduled weekly ditch cleaning.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 12:10 p.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m. as follows:

PUBLIC HEARING-Schrandt Cartway

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the Public Hearing at 1:04 p.m.  Pursuant to MN Statute 164.08 to establish a cartway. County Attorney, James Austad asked Attorney Nora Crumpton for affidavit of mailing for the affected land owners, Attorney Nora Crumpton presented the affidavit of service and return of service from Polk County Sheriff’s office served to Gary Pulkrabeck. County Attorney James Austad asked if the notice was posted. Attorney Nora Crumpton said that it was done by her office but not sure where it was posted and felt that notification was enough.   Gary Pulkrabeck and David and Mary Schrandt were in attendance at the hearing.

County Attorney, James Austad stated that the Petition seeks to establish a cartway pursuant to Minnesota Statute 164.08.  The description of the proposed cartway is:

The West two (2) rods of the Northeast Quarter (NE¼) of Section Two (2), Township One Hundred Sixty (160) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West; and the West two (2) rods of the Northwest Quarter of the Southeast Quarter (NW¼ SE¼) of said Section Two (2), Township One Hundred Sixty (160) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West.

            The description of the individual tracts of land over which the proposed cartway would pass are:

The Northeast Quarter (NE¼) of Section Two (2), Township One Hundred Sixty (160) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West; and the Northwest Quarter of the Southeast Quarter (NW¼ SE¼) of said Section Two (2), Township One Hundred Sixty (160) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West.

Attorney Nora Crumpton acknowledges that the property is at least 5 acres and is land locked. Nora explained that back in October 22, 2013 the petitioners did not want the cartway that was chosen, they wanted the one they chose and only want access by four wheeler ; would only bring in heavy equipment in the winter time, and want a Private cartway and not a public.

The board reviewed the cartway request and viewed Ariel photos. The board reviewed alternate routes. The board did not feel comfortable making a decision at this meeting for they are looking at alternate routes and the route they are looking at would include land owned by Paul Pederson, and since he was not served and not present  they want to continue the Public Hearing on September 8, at 1:00 p.m.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the public hearing at 2:10 p.m. and to set the continuance of Public hearing for September 8, 2015 at 1:00 p.m.

CITY OF BAUDETTE-Housing

Chairman Arnesen presented a resolution of support for the City of Baudette for transfer of ownership of the Coast Guard housing units to the City of Baudette.

Resolution

RESOLUTION NO. 2015-07-02

WHEREAS; it has been determined that there is a housing shortage in the Baudette Community; and

WHEREAS; the Lake of the Woods Economic Development Authority has completed a housing study to identify the needs of the community with regard to housing needs; and

WHEREAS; the housing study identified a significant need for workforce and student housing; and

WHEREAS; it is the goal of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners to address the housing shortage; and

WHEREAS; there are four vacant housing units located on Hamilton Avenue; and

WHEREAS; the housing units are located in an affordable housing development; and

WHEREAS; the Coast Guard no longer has a use for the housing units; and

WHEREAS; the units are sitting vacant and slowly deteriorating;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED; Lake of the Woods County and surrounding community could utilize the units to address the housing shortage;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED; that the Lake of the Woods Board of Commissioners supports the transfer of ownership of the Coast Guard housing units to the City of Baudette.

RECESS

With no further business before the board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 2:20 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: August 11, 2015

_______________________                                                  _________________________________

Lorene Hanson,                                                                       Chairman of the Board, Edward ArnesenCounty Auditor/Treasurer

June, 2015

Commissioner Proceedings

June 9, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, June 9, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen 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, Buck Nordlof, Ken Moorman, Patty Beckel and Tom Hanson.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor /Treasurer Janet Rudd, County Attorney, James Austad, Representative Hancock and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Representative Hancock, AMC District 2 meeting, Lost warrants, NWA Agenda items, EDA meeting, Public Works- work session, Time Card update, Stantec – new bridge and Paul Bunyan Transit meeting.

Approval of Consent Agenda

None

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of May 26, 2015.

Representative Hancock

Representative Hancock met with the board to discuss the following issues: School funding, tax reform, transportation budget, billion dollars for tax reform, fuel tax, dedicate long term budget for roads and bridge, rural transit, legacy bill, bonding bill, State Auditor’s office, giving counties and SWCD more control  and authority over ditches and buffers.

AMC DISTRICT 2 MEETING

Commissioner Beckel updated the board on the AMC District meeting.

Social Services

Claims

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 13,223.61

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $   4.373.40

Social Worker Supervisor

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting authorize to fill the Social Worker Supervisors position.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to authorize Social Service Director, Amy Ballard and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose to fill the vacant Social Service Supervisor and advertise and interview.

Land and Water Planning

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and reviewed the 2014 Feedlot and Performance Grant Agreement and authorization to sign; informed the board that he will take his annual leave September 12-20.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to authorize Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund to sign the 2015 MN BWSR MPCA and the 2014 County Feedlot Performance Grant agreement.

auditor/treasurer

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                           Revenue                      $37,502.53                            

                                                Road & Bridge            $20,230.22     

                                                Co. Develop                $  9,953.50          

Natl Resc.Enhanc        $10,218.56         
Solid Waste                 $23,986.89        

                                                EDA                            $        79.55       

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

                                                May 27, 2015              $ 649,381.33

\                                               June 4,   2015              $      5,878.50

                                                June 4,   2015              $1,005,743.67

                                                June 8,   2015              $   327,395.26

Vacant Auditor/Treasurer Positions

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting authorization to advertise and interview for Motor Vehicle Clerk/Assistant Elections and Fiscal Officer. The board discussed the Fiscal Officers position and that this position to process payroll from the Auditor/Treasurers office.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose to a advertise and interview for Motor Vehicle Clerk/Assistant Elections and Fiscal Officer.

E-Time Card

The board inquired on the E-Time Card. County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson informed the board that the company has some things to do yet and then training. Lorene thought it would be a couple months from now.

Lost Warrants

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting authorization to replace a lost warrant for Cheryl Anderson and Jill Hasbargen Olson.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously approve the replacement warrants for Cheryl Anderson in the amount of $79.97 and Jill Hasbargen Olson, in the amount of $14.81 without furnishing an indemnifying bond.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 10:15 a.m. and reconvened at 10:25 a.m. as follows:

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting authorization to promote Mike Anderson to Maintenance Supervisor. Tim informed the board that he did check with the union and they have no problem with promoting within, but the contract with union employees needs to post for open position five (5) days.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to post internally for five (5) days for the open Maintenance Supervisor position.

Work Session

The board discussed a Work Session with the Public Works department to discuss Ditches and Roads. The board set June 22, 2015 at 7:30 a.m. for the work session.

Drainage Committee

The board discussed the Drainage Committee. The following members that have been appointed to this committee are: Commissioners Arnesen and Moorman, Byron Tviet, Tim Erickson, Josh Stromlund, Dennis Johnson, and SWCD Representative.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to appoint Vern Horntvedt to the Drainage committee.

NO-NET-LOSS POLICY

The board reviewed the No-Net Loss policy and the possible legislation bill that MRCC and AMC are working on.

GREAT NORTHERN TRANSMISSION LINE

Chairman Arnesen discussed the Great Northern Transmission line resolution. The consensus of the board is that they preferred the “Orange Route”.

RINKE NOONAN LAW FIRM

Chairman Arnesen reviewed the Riparian Protection and Water Quality Practices (Buffers) memo received from Rinke Noonan. The board discussed ditch concerns that they would like to address with Attorney Kurt Deter, from Rinke Noonan Law Firm.

MCIT

Bob Goede from MCIT presented the 2015 MCIT Annual Report to the board. The board requested that Bob put in a work order to see what has caused the county’s workers compensation rate to increase.

NWA EDGERIDERS SNOWMOBILE CLUB

Joe Laurin, member of the NWA Edgeriders Snowmobile Club met with the board asking for County support for a grant application to create “Northerly Park” on state land behind Jims Corner at the NWA. Joe stated that the state would fund the grant, but they are requesting help with occasional park maintenance after it’s established. The board requested Joe to attend the NWA meeting that is being held on June 16.

CORRESPONDENCE: Meeting with DOT in regards to Paul Bunyan Transit on June 15 at 9:30 a.m.; MN Heartland Tourism Association Meeting, June 22 at Brainerd Lake Chamber Office.

NWA MEETING AND EDA MEETING

The board reviewed the NWA agenda; EDA meeting attendees for June 17 meeting.

BRIDGE REPLACEMENT COMMITTEE

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to appoint County Engineer, Tim Erickson and Commissioner Nordlof to the Baudette Rainy River International Bridge committee.

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 12:40 a.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: June 23, 2015

_______________________                                                  _________________________________

Lorene Hanson,                                                                       Chairman of the Board, Edward ArnesenCounty Auditor/Treasurer

======================================================================================================

Commissioner Proceedings

June 16, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in session on Tuesday, June 16, 2015 at Angle Outpost Resort at the Northwest Angle.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to order at 10:11 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Patty Beckel, Ed Arnesen, Thomas Hanson, and Ken Moorman. Absent: Buck Nordlof.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Public Works Director, Tim Erickson, County Assessor, Mary Jo Otten, Assistant Assessor, Dale Boretski, County Attorney, James Austad , SWCD Resource Technician, Mike Hirst, Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: RFP and Sheriff’s Office.

NW ANGLE AIRPORT UPDATE

Shawn McMann, representing S E H met with the residents of the NWA and reviewed the proposed NWA Airport. Shawn explained that in 2012, the Phase I Feasibility study was completed ( survey-justification), 2013 Phase 2 Feasibility study was completed (Analysis), 2014 Phase 3 Preliminary Engineering study was completed .  MN DOT representative Julie Carr reviewed funding that is available for Airports. Questions and Answer were addressed.

NWA AIRPORT SITE SELECTION

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to select site 3, for the intended NWA selection site, for the potential NWA airport.

Emergency Management Director

“BJ” Glesener, Region Staff Fire Management & Enforcement and Emergency Management Director, Jill Hasbargen Olson met with the board and reviewed the NWA Fire Protection Plan. Emergency Management Director, Jill Hasbargen Olson met with the board requesting approval for the mainland Fire Protection Plan Application.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the mainland Fire Protection application and authorize Emergency Management Director Jill Hasbargen Olson and Chairman Arnesen to sign.

NORTHWEST ANGLE EDGERIDERS

Kelly Knight, representing the Northwest Angle Edegeriders snowmobile club met with the board requesting support from the County for the development of a park, and help with occasional maintenance.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and unanimously carried the following resolution:

Northwest Angle Edgeriders

Request for Gant Funds from

 Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission

2015-05- 04

WHEREAS; Northwest Angle Edgeriders met with Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners on June 9, 2015 to discuss a grant to create an Park at  Angle Inlet/Northwest Angle;

WHEREAS; The park plans for Northerly Park in Lake of the Woods County is significant and exciting for it would be the most northern park in the lower 48;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT; Lake of the Woods County Commissioners supports Northwest Angle Edgeriders   grant request that they will be placing with the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission, since this area of Lake of the Woods County does not have an existing park in Angle Inlet/Northwest Angle. 

Letter of Support

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to authorize Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners to sign a letter of support for the Northerly Park regional destination and subsequent Regional Parks and Trails Legacy funding request.

SHERIFF

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting approval for the 2014 Operation Stonegarden Grant, the 2015 I/Mobile System and authorization to advertise and interview for part-time dispatch.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and unanimously carried the following resolution:

2014 Operation Stonegarden Grant

Resolution No. 15-05-05

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (“State:) , Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division has announced that Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Department (“Grantee”) has been awarded a 2014 Operation Stonegarden grant in the amount of $58,395.00; and

WHEREAS, the Grantee, is not a state employee and will perform and accomplish such purposes and activities as specified herein and in the Grantee’s approved 2014 Operation Stonegarden Application, which is incorporated by reference into this grant agreement and on file with the State at 445  Minnesota Street, St. Paul, MN; and

WHEREAS, the Grantee shall also comply with all requirements referenced in the 2014 Operation Stonegarden Guidelines and Application which includes the terms and conditions and grant program guidelines,

WHEREAS, the breakdowns of costs of the Grantee’s budget is contained in Exhibit A, which is attached and incorporated into this grant agreement and the grantee will submit a written change request for any substitution of budget items or any deviation and in accordance with the grant program guidelines. Requests must be approved prior to any expenditure by the Grantee;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Grantee certifies that the appropriate person(s) have executed the grant agreement on behalf of the Grantee as required by applicable article, bylaws, resolutions, and authorizes Chairman Arnesen and County Sheriff, Gary Fish to sign.

I/Mobile System

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously the following resolution:

RESOLUTION TO ENTER INTO A JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT WITH THE

 STATE OF MINNESOTA

 FOR I/MOBILE SYSTEM

Resolution No. 15-05- 06

WHEREAS, Sheriff Gary Fish has met with Lake of the  Woods County Board to discuss I/ mobile data computing between the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Department and the State of Minnesota; and

WHEREAS, the purpose of this agreement is for the State to provide Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Department with access to the State’s I/Mobile System; thru software purchased and installed by the county on county laptop computers mounted in the patrol vehicles; and

WHEREAS, the term of this agreement shall be from January 1, 2015(or the date the State obtains all required signatures) thru December 31, 2016;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby adopts this joint powers agreement and authorizes Chairman Arnesen and County Sheriff, Gary Fish to sign.

Part time Dispatch

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Arnesen, and moved carried unanimously to authorize County Sheriff, Gary Fish and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose to advertise and interview for part-time dispatcher.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 12:05 p.m. and reconvened at 1:15 p.m. as follows:

Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan

SWCD Resource Technician, Mike Hirst met with the board and presented the Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan.

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and informed them about gravel prospecting

at the NWA. Spoke to the NWA residents about the Blue Blade Signage that are being placed this year on  the main land.

LAKE OF THE WOODS TOURISM

Lake of the Woods Tourism Director, Joe Henry met with the board and reviewed the 2014 Lodging Tax revenues.

FAMILY HOMELESS PREVENTION

Chairman Arnesen presented a resolution for support the Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously the following resolution:

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING ADMINISTRATION OF

THE MINNESOTA HOUSING FINANCE AGENCYS

FAMILY HOMELESS PREVENTION AND ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

RESOLUTION NO. 15-06-07

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

WHEREAS the Tri-Valley Opportunity Council, Inc. desires to administer the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency’s Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program in Lake of the Woods County in accordance with all applicable State and Federal regulations; and

WHEREAS in order to administer the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency’s Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program in Lake of the Woods County, it is necessary for the Tri-Valley Opportunity Council, Inc. to file a resolution of approval executed by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners with the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Tri-Valley Opportunity Council, Inc. is hereby authorized to:

Submit a proposal to the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency for funds from the Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program to assist people in Lake of the Woods County;

Administer the Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program in Lake of the Woods County, according to the program guidelines, contingent upon funding being granted.

Approved this 16 day of June, 2015

BY: ________________________________       BY:_______________________________

(Authorized Officer)                                 (Authorized Officer)                           

ITS: _______________________________        ITS:______________________________

        (Title)                                                (Title)

COUNTY AUDITOR/TREASURER

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval to place a request for Proposals out for Employee Integrity Benefits.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson to advertise for RFP for Employee Integrity Benefits.

Correspondence: NWA Airport Compiled list of support, Paul Bunyan Transit Update.

With no further business before the Board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 2:26 p.m.

Attest:                                                                              Approved: June 23, 2015

____________________________                                  _______________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer                                                  Chairman of the Board

Lorene Hanson                                                                   Edward Arnesen

======================================================================================================

Commissioner Proceedings

June 23, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, June 23, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen 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, Buck Nordlof, Ken Moorman, Patty Beckel and Tom Hanson.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor /Treasurer Janet Rudd and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Rinke Noonan and MN Department of Transportation.

Approval of Consent Agenda

None

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of June 9 and 16, 2015.

auditor/treasurer

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                           Revenue                      $  20,495.04                            

                                                Road & Bridge            $268,695.70     

Natl Resc.Enhanc        $    1,404.30       
Solid Waste                 $  17,891.75        

                                                EDA                            $     8,299.55      

NEED WARRANTS

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

                                                June 10, 2015              $ 418,687.56

                                                June 17, 2015              $   37,633.64

Schrandt Cartway Hearing

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting the board to set a Public Hearing for the Schrandt Cartway Hearing.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to set a Public Hearing on July 28, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. for a Cartway Hearing for David and Mary Schrandt.

GREAT NORTHERN TRANSMISISON LINE

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson presented a resolution for the Great Northern Transmission line indicating the boards preferred route.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously the following:

MINNESOTA POWER’S GREAT NORTHERN TRANSMISSION LINE

RESOLUTION NO. 15-06-08

MPUC Docket No. E015/TL-14-21

OAH CASE NO. 65-2500-31637,

DOE OE DOCKET NO. PP-398

WHEREAS; Minnesota Power is proposing to construct the 500 KV Great Northern Transmission Line through Lake of the Woods County by June 1, 2020;

WHEREAS;   Minnesota Power has been working with Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, residents,  and landowners in Lake of the Woods County, for over three years to develop and refine a route for this project that provides the least impact to residents and landowners;

WHEREAS; Lake of the Woods County does not support Great Northern Transmission Line alternate routes indicated in Red;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT; Lake of the Woods County prefers Minnesota Power’s “Orange Route” as reviewed with Jim Atkinson from Minnesota Power on May 26, 2015.

CORRESPONDENCE:

The boards acknowledge the following letters: Rinke Noonan and MN Department of Transportation.

Social Services

Claims

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 10,346.16

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $   4.352.80

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 32,285.86

Social Worker Supervisor

Social Services Director, Amy Ballard met with the board requesting authorize to fill the soon to be vacant Case Aide position due to retirement.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to authorize Social Service Director, Amy Ballard and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose to fill the soon to be vacant Case Aide position and authorized them to advertise and interview.

2016 BUDGET SESSIONS

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson requested to set 2016 budget sessions.

The following budget sessions are : August 4, 10 and 11 at 7:30 a.m.

Land and Water Planning

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and reviewed the 2015 Amended Comprehensive Local Water Plan.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the following:

RESOLUTION

15-06-09

Amended Comprehensive Local Water Plan

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners has been notified by the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources that the Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Local Water Management Plan has been approved according to Minnesota Statutes Chapter 103B.301:

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Lake of the Woods County Board Commissioners hereby adopts and will begin implementation of its approved comprehensive water plan.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, after the adoption of the local comprehensive water management plan, the Lake of the Woods County Board shall amend existing water and related land resources plans and official controls as necessary to conform them to the applicable and approved comprehensive water plan.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, after the adoption of the local comprehensive water management plan, Lake of the Woods County shall notify local units of government within the County of the adoption of the plan or amendments to the plan. The local units of government are required to submit existing water and related land resources plans and official controls within 90 days to the County Board for review.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, within 180 days, the Lake of the Woods County Board shall review the submitted plans and official controls and identify any inconsistencies between the local plans and official controls, and local comprehensive water management plan. The Lake of the Woods County Board shall specify applicable and necessary measures to bring the local plans and official controls into conformance with the local comprehensive water management plan.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, if a local unit of government disagrees with any changes to its plan; the local unit has 60 days after receiving the county’s recommendations to appeal the recommendations to the Board of Water and Soil Resources.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, after receiving the recommendations of the Lake of the Woods County Board or a resolution of an appeal, a local unit of government has 180 days to initiate revisions to its plan or official controls.  The new or revised plans and official controls must be submitted to the Lake of the Woods County Board for review and recommendations.

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting authorization to hire Mike Anderson as Maintenance Supervisor and to advertise and interview for Heavy Equipment Operator.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to authorize Public Works Director to hire Mike Anderson as the Maintenance Supervisor at grade 15, step 5, $25.28 per hour, points 347 effective June 21, 2015.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to authorize Public Works Director, Tim Erickson and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose to advertise and interview for Heavy Equipment Operators position.

Brush Trailer

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson informed the board that the brush trailer has been placed with signage, and people are still throwing in garbage and other construction materials instead of yard clippings. He will advertise on Channel 3 and in the newspaper informing the City residents that if this continues the trailer will be discontinued.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 10:15 a.m. and reconvened at 10:25 a.m. as follows:

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Land and Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund met with the board an presented and application for Conditional Use Permit for Stephen Cooper.  to allow the applicant to conduce a commercial business consisting of a Self-Storage Rental Building in a Natural Environment District. Jos informed the board that the Planning Commissions did approve the application with conditions.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, Seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the Conditional Use Permit for Stephen Cooper to allow him to conduct a commercial business consisting of a Self-Storage Rental Building in a natural Environmental Distrcit with conditions, but removing the condition -Fifty (50) foot setback from Right-of-Way set forth by the Planning Commission, for that is in the county’s zoning ordinance.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Stephen Cooper                                                              Date:  June 23, 2015

Location/Legal Description:   The W 420’ of the E 820’of the N 1020’ and the E 400’ of the N 480’ of the NE¼NE¼ of Section 25, Township 162 North, Range 33West, (Zippel Township)

Project Proposal:   Applicant is requesting a conditional use permit as required by Section 401.B of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance, to allow the applicant to conduct a commercial business consisting of a Self-Storage Rental Building 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?  Allowing commercial venture in agricultural area.

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not?  Will not.

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?  Not in 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 an issue.

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

Why or why not?  County Road #8 access.

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

Why or why not?  Agricultural.

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

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________ 

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________ 

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________ 

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

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

Why or why not?  Signs on ends of building only.

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?  Storage and occasional access only.

The specific conditions of approval are as follows:

  1. No outside storage.
  2. Multi-unit storage facilities/buildings only is allowed.

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

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

                                                                                    _____________________________________

                                                                                                            Edward Arnesen

                                                                                                        Chair, County Board

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

WILLIAMS CREEK PROJECT

Land and Water Planning director informed the board that there will be a hearing from July 20-24 for the Williams Creek Project which he and possibly County Attorney, James Austad will attend. This is the last phase of the project.

CLOSED SESSION

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof to close the regular meeting at 10:30 a.m., pursuant to MN Stat. §13D.03, subd. 1 (b), Union Negotiations. The following were present, Human Resource Director, Karen Ose, Commissioners Arnesen, Moorman, Beckel, Hanson and Nordlof.

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Beckel to close the closed session at 11:10 a.m. and open the regular meeting.

BAUDETTE ARENA ASSOCIATION

Barry Westerlund and Jeremy LaValla, representing the Baudette Arena Association met with the board requesting support for the Baudette Arena Association to apply for the LUG Mighty Ducks Grant.

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to adopt the following:

Resolution of LGU Mighty Ducks Grant Application

Resolution No. 15-06-10

            WHEREAS, the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission (MASC), via the State General Fund, provides for general funds to assist political subdivision of the State of Minnesota for the development of sport facilities, and

            WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County on behalf of Baudette Arena Association desires to replace direct R22 Systems, including floor replacement in existing arena;

  1. Estimates that the total cost of developing said facility shall be $ 800,000 and Lake of the Woods County on behalf of Baudette Arena Association is requesting $400,000 from the Mighty Ducks Grant Fund and the Baudette Arena Association will assume responsibility for a match requirement of $400,000.
  2. Baudette Arena Association agrees to own, assume 100 percent operation costs for said facility, and will operate said facility for its intended purpose for the functional life of the facility which is estimated to be 30 years.
  3. Lake of the Woods County on behalf of Baudette Arena Association agrees to enter into necessary and required agreements with the MASC for the specific purpose of renovating a sports facility and long-term project direction.
  4. That an application be made to the State of Minnesota, MASC, for an amount presently estimated to be $ 400,000.
  5. That the Lake of the Woods County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson and Lake of the Woods County Commissioner’s is authorized and directed to execute said application and serve as the official liaison with the MASC.

TAX FORFEITED LAND-Old Williams School

City of Williams Clerk, Kathy Elson and Deputy Clerk, Tara Aery met with the board to discuss some unsecured areas of the Old Williams School. County Sheriff, Gary Fish will take care of this issue. Kathy also had concerns of water that is running from the School into the Williams sewer system.  

Chairman Arnesen will talk to Public Works Director, Tim Erickson and have him look at the issue. The board discussed the request from City of Williams Mayor, April Stavig for the procedure of getting approval for potential sale of the building. No action was taken and was referred to the Economic Development Authority to look into.

Recess

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

Lake of the Woods County

Board of Appeal and Equalization

June 23, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Appeal and Equalization met on Tuesday, June 23, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center. 

Call to Order

County Board Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. with the following members present:  Commissioners: Ed Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Tom Hanson, Ken Moorman, Buck Nordlof and County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson.  Also present were: County Assessor Mary Jo Otten, County Attorney James Austad, County Recorder Sue Ney, Woody Fiala, George Swentik and Scott Arvig.  County Recorder Sue Ney swore in the members of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Appeal and Equalization.

County Board Chair Ed Arnesen explained that all appeals would be heard before any action would be taken.

County Assessor

County Assessor Mary Jo Otten issued and reviewed the following reports:

  • 2014/205 Comparisons / New Construction — by Townships
  • New Construction and Market Value by Year — 1980 through 2015

Mary Jo further explained that the valuation period is from sales during October 1, 2013 through September 30, 2014, and discussed adjustments that had been made during the past year.

Property Owners

Meeting with the County Board was Wetland Property Investments LLC, Scott Arvig, property owner in Lakewood Township.  Scott relayed his concern on the increases in market value on his property and what the potential trend of increases would be. County Assessor Mary Jo Otten reviewed the properties in question and said that all of Lakewood Township parcels had been reassessed this past year.  She further explained how the increase in sales affects the market values.

Meeting with the County Board was George Swentik, appearing for property owner Dennis Keep in Gudrid and Baudette Townships.  George explained Mr. Keep’s concern in the recent values assessed to his property.  County Assessor Mary Jo Otten reviewed the properties in question and mentioned that all of Gudrid and Baudette Township parcels had been reassessed this past year.  She further explained how the increase in sales affects the market values.  

County Assessor Mary Jo Otten presented information from Dan Basher, property owner in Wheeler Township.  Mr. Basher commented on being assessed for a Mobile Home on his property, which had been removed. County Assessor Mary Jo Otten reviewed the process of the assessment period.

Commissioner Ed Arnesen presented a request from Dale Smedsmoe, property owner in Angle Township.  Mr. Arnesen explained the concern of Mr. Smedsmoe on being assessed in a commercial classification when the building was no longer being used as a business.  County Assessor Mary Jo Otten reviewed the classification codes. 

Recess

With no further questions or comments from the public and the need for some issues to be researched, Commissioner Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting recessed at 7:15 p.m. and rescheduled the Lake of the Woods County Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting to reconvene Tuesday, June 30, 2015, at 8:00 a.m. 

Reconvene

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Appeal and Equalization met and reconvened on Tuesday, June 30, 2015 at 8:00 a.m. in the Commissioners’ Room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center. 

Call to Order

County Board Chair Ed Arnesen 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, Tom Hanson, Ken Moorman and County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson.  Commissioner Buck Nordlof was absent.  Also present were: County Assessor Mary Jo Otten, County Attorney James Austad and Woody Fiala

County Board Chair Ed Arnesen explained that the appeals had been heard at the previous meeting and there would be no new appeals before the Board. County Assessor Mary Jo Otten reviewed the required research from the prior meeting.

Actions

After hearing all the appeals, questions, comments and further research, the following action was taken:

Wetland Property Investments LLC, Scott Arvig, property owner in Lakewood Township, Parcel Numbers: 13.35.14.000, 14.01.11.000, 14.01.21.000, 14.01.22.000, 14.01.23.000, 14.01.41.000; the County Board of Appeal and Equalization noted this was a question and clarification of how properties were being valued and assessed all of which was addressed by County Assessor Mary Jo Otten at the original Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting on Tuesday, June 23, 2015. Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel to take no action on any of the above mentioned parcels, and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried. 

Dennis Keep property in Gudrid and Baudette Townships, Parcel Numbers:  31.10.33.000, 31.15.11.030, 24.50.01.060; the County Board of Appeal and Equalization noted this was a question and clarification of how values were assessed, all of which County Assessor Mary Jo Otten addressed at the original Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting on Tuesday, June 23, 2015, and further addressed at the reconvening meeting.  Motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel and seconded by Commissioner Ken Moorman to take no action on the above mentioned parcels, and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Dan Basher, property owner in Wheeler Township, Parcel No. 19.57.01.020; a motion was made by Commissioner Patty Beckel to remove the value of the mobile home and reduce the total value from $28,200 to $21,000. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ken Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.   

North Point 07 LLC, Dale Smedsmoe, property owner in Angle Township, Parcel No. 02.30.11.010; a motion was made by Commissioner Ken Moorman to change the classification from Commercial to Seasonal Recreational.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Adjourn

Motion was made by Commissioner Tom Hanson to adjourn the County Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting for 2015.  The motion was seconded by ­Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  County Board Chair Ed Arnesen adjourned the Lake of the Woods County Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting for 2015, at 8:15 a.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: July 14, 2015

_______________________                                                  _________________________________

Lorene Hanson,                                                                       Chairman of the Board, Edward Arnesen

County Auditor/Treasurer      

May, 2015

Commissioner Proceedings

May 12, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, May 12, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:05 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Ed Arnesen, Buck Nordlof, Ken Moorman, absent Patty Beckel.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor /Treasurer Janet Rudd and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Deputy Auditor/Treasurers position, land exchange, power line, veteran’s resolution, and remove wellness committee.

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda, travel for;   Tim Erickson to District II and District IV Spring Screening Board meeting on May 20th & 21st, 2015, in Park Rapids, MN; Steve Sindelir, Minnesota Association of County Ag Inspectors (MACAI) Annual Conference July 12-15, Ottertail

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of April 28, 2015.

COUNTY FAIR

Brenda Rone, Nicole Hancock, Alicia Walton and David Antonson meet with the board to discuss the finances and cost associated with the County Fair. They requested a contribution of $25,000 per year vs $15,000 for the Carnival. The board informed them that this would be placed on the Budget sessions for consideration.

Social Services

Claims

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

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Norldof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 12,512.60

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 10,897.00

Power line

Chairman Arnesen discussed the May 5, 2015 meeting that the Great Northern Transmission Line presented. The board requested that they would like to meet with the Great Northern Transmission Line  as early as possible.

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                           Revenue                              $    29,545.40            

                                                Road & Bridge                    $    32,019.77

                                                Co. Develop                        $          200.00

                                                Solid Waste                         $     19,799.46

                                                EDA                                    $          363.73

                                                Taxes & Penalties               $          114.00

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 5/12/2015 For Payment 5/15/2015

Vendor Name                                     Amount

American Solutions For Business                                 2,506.48

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                                          6,513.94

Computer Professionals Unlimited Inc                                         3,311.00

LOW County Treasurer                                                   8,730.22

LOW Highway Dept                                                        3,077.50

M-R Sign Co, Inc                                                           31,682.03

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                                9,650.25

Olson/Emil A                                                                    3,872.07

Ravndalen/Milo & Karleen J & Cora I                            4,541.52

Rinke-Noonan                                                                 9,489.30

Woody’s Service                                                             2,491.88

  80 Payments less than $2000                                     29,276.22

                Final Total:                                                $ 115,142.41

Deputy Auditor/Treasures Positon

The board discussed the Auditor/Treasurer vacant position with County Auditor/Treasurer.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 10:05 a.m. and reconvened at 10:08 a.m. as follows:

SHORT ELLIOT HENDRICKSON

Benita L. Crow, PE  |  Principal, Shane Macman, from S E H, Kathy Vesely and Julie Carr from MnDot, Jim Hanson, Bob Lessard, Kirk Hener and Bryon Budds met with the board to discuss Phase III Phase 3 Feasibility Study for the proposed airport in the NW Angle.  This phase of the feasibility study included preliminary engineering (topographic survey, wetland mitigation, and geotechnical borings). The board requested that S E H meet with them on June 16 at the NWA County Board meeting.

RECESS

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

YEARS OF SERVICE

Chairman Arnesen thanked Darren Olson for his helpful service to Lake of the Woods County Residents.

Resolution

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

Recognition of years of service

Darren Olson

Resolution 2015 – 05– 01

Whereas:  Darren Olson has served the residents of Lake of the Woods County since December 27, 1999 as Deputy Auditor/Treasurer;

Whereas:  Darren has resigned from Lake of the Woods County service effective May 14, 2015 with fifteen years of service;

Now Therefore, Be it Resolved:  That Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners extends its deepest appreciation to Darren for his dedicated service and best wishes to him;

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

 EMERGENCY MANGEMENT

Armer Radio System Participation Plan

Rey Freeman, Communication Consulting met with the board and reviewed the Lake of the Woods County Armer Radio System Participation Plan. Rey Freeman assured  the board that there is no cost for maintenance or use of the Armer Radio system that the county will occur

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Lake of the Woods Armer Radio System Participation Plan as presented.

Region Three Homeland Security and Emergency Management Joint Powers Agreement

Emergency Management Director, Jill Olson met with the board requesting authorization to approve the Region Three Homeland Security and Emergency Management Joint Powers Board Mutual Aid Agreement.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordolof and carried unanimously to approve the Region Three Homeland Security and Emergency Management Joint Powers Board Mutual Aid Agreement and authorize Chairman Arnesen and Emergency Management Director, Jill Olson to sign.

Firewise Community Mitigation Grants

Emergency Management Director, Jill Olson met with the board inquiring if the board would like her to move forward with securing grant money for the Firewise Community Mitigation Plan. The board authorized Jill to move ahead on grant funding.

SHERIFF

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting authorization to purchase additional cameras for the Jail.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to authorize County Sheriff, Gary Fish to purchase cameras/equipment with funding up to 1,500.

Permanent Part-time Deputy Sheriff

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting a step increase for Permanent Part-time Deputy Sheriff.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve a step increase for Permanent Part-time Deputy Sheriff, Russell Platz from step 2 to step 3, 20.35, and effective May 24, 2015.

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board for his re-appointment as County Engineer.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Moorman, and carried unanimously to re-appoint Tim Erickson as County Engineer for four year term effective May 1, 2015.

Brush Trailer

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson discussed the “Brush Trailer” that is located at the county’s storage shed and the abuse of garbage that is thrown in the trailer. The board wants this “Brush” trailer to continue until the City of Baudette sets up a program for yard waste; but if garbage continues to be placed in the “Brush” trailer by the residents, the trailer will be discontinued.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 1:10 and reconvened at 2:00 p.m. as follows:

Commissioner Hanson excused himself from the afternoon meeting.

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board requesting approval to purchase a truck for his department.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Norldof, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to authorize Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund to purchase a 2015 GM Crew Cab up to $30,000 as budgeted.

WETLANDS MITIGATION FUNDING

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board requesting $20,000 additional funding for Wetland Mitigation and discussed looking for alternate wetland sites. The consensus of the board was for Josh to search for sites.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to transfer $20,000 from the Environmental Enhancement Fund to the Wetland Mitigation fund.

NO NET LOSS POICY

The board discussed the County’s No-Net-Loss policy and requested that this be placed on the next board agenda for review.

VETERANS SERVICE SUPPORT

Chairman Arnesen presented a resolution in support for the MN Department of Veterans Affairs Budget.

Resolution

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

Resolution No. 15-05-02

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners has and continues to support services for the United States Veterans; and

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County recognizes that numerous services for veterans are delivered through the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs; and

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Board is aware of a potential legislatively budgeted shortfall for the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs;

THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED that the Lake of the Woods County Board supports funding for MDVA to a level that supports current staffing level, allows for cost of living adjustments to staff where appropriate, and provides for maintenance and procurement of facilities and equipment  where and when appropriate, and;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby expresses strong support for appropriate funding to keep all Veterans Homes at full current housing capacity, in addition to planning for increased housing capacity in the near future.

YES                  NO       Absent

Beckel                                                 x

Arnesen           x

Hanson                                                x

Nordlof           x

Moorman         x

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

CORRESPONDENCE:

Baudette Depot- Historic Transportation and Settlement Exhibit May 23, at 1:00 p.m.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Commissioner Arnesen – AIS plan is developed and will bring information to the board for approval.

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 3:05 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: May 26, 2015

_______________________                                                  _________________________________

Lorene Hanson,                                                                       Chairman of the Board, Edward Arnesen

County Auditor/Treasurer      

Commissioner Proceedings

Special County Board Meeting

May 20, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in special session on May 20, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Lake of the Woods County Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m.  The following members were present:  Commissioners Ed Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Tom Hanson, Ken Moorman and Buck Nordlof.  Also present were: Social Service Director Nancy Wendler.

The board reviewed the applicant’s applications and interview process for Social Service Director.

Interviews:

1st Applicant:

Chairman Arnesen welcomed Christine Hultman to the interview.  Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler proceeded with the interviewing questions. 

Interviews:

2nd Applicant:

Chairman Arnesen welcomed Amy Ballard to the interview.  Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler proceeded with the interviewing questions. 

Interviews:

3rd Applicant:

Chairman Arnesen welcomed Angela Eason to the interview.  Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler proceeded with the interviewing questions. 

Job Applicants Review

Chairman Arnesen discussed the interviews and the Commissioners scored the applicants.

Recess

There being no further business before the County Board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 11:15 a.m.

Attest:                                                             Approved:  June 9, 2015

______________________________            ___________________________________

Vice-Chairman Ken Moorman                        Chairman Edward Arnesen

Commissioner Proceedings

Special County Board Meeting

May 27, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in special session on May 27, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Lake of the Woods County Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m.  The following members were present:  Commissioners Ed Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Tom Hanson, Ken Moorman and Buck Nordlof.  Also present were: Social Service Director Nancy Wendler and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose.

The board reviewed the applicant’s applications and interview process for Social Service Director.

Interviews:

1st Applicant:

Chairman Arnesen welcomed Russell Rowenhorst to the interview.  Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler proceeded with the interviewing questions. 

Interviews:

2nd Applicant:

Chairman Arnesen welcomed Amy Loch to the interview.  Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler proceeded with the interviewing questions. 

Interviews:

3rd Applicant:

Chairman Arnesen welcomed Christopher Pieper to the interview.  Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler proceeded with the interviewing questions. 

Job Applicants Review

Chairman Arnesen discussed the interviews and the Commissioners scored the applicants.

Recess

There being no further business before the County Board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 11:30 a.m.

Attest:                                                             Approved:  June 9, 2015

______________________________            ___________________________________

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose           Chairman Edward Arnesen

Commissioner Proceedings

May 26, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, May 26, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:05 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Ed Arnesen, Buck Nordlof, Ken Moorman, Patty Beckel and Tom Hanson.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor /Treasurer Janet Rudd and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Change letter of resignation to request for medical leave, personnel committee recommendations for job descriptions and grade level change and bush trailer.

Approval of Consent Agenda

None

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Norldof and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of May 12, 2015.

auditor/treasurer

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                           Revenue                              $  84,669.42        

                                                Road & Bridge                    $   5,524.74

                                                Co. Develop                        $ 15,550.00    

                                                Solid Waste                         $   2,598.59  

                                                EDA                                    $   3,405.50 

                                                Taxes & Penalties               $        58.21

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 5/26/2015 For Payment 5/29/2015

Vendor Name                                     Amount

Hasler                                                                               4,000.00

M-R Sign Co, Inc                                                           15,550.00

MN Dept of Employment & Economic Develop                 5,000.00

North East Technical Service,Inc                                  2,312.50

Northern Light Region                                                   2,179.14

Northwest Community Action, Inc                                 2,893.00

Rtvision Inc                                                                     2,060.00

Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc                                                     58,300.00

  54 Payments less than $2000                                     19,511.82

                Final Total:                                                $ 111,806.46

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

                                                May 14, 2015                  $   86,858.26

May 19, 2015                   $   86,212.30

 Liquor License

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval for the Liquor license and Cigarette license for 2015.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel to approve the following 2014 On/Off Sale and Sunday Liquor License; On-Sale Sunday Liquor License; Off-Sale Only, Cigarette Licenses and 3.2 on and Off Sale Malt Liquor License as permitted by County Sheriff, Gary Fish and County Attorney, James Austad:

On/Off Sale and Sunday Liquor License:

Adrian’s Resort, DACH -Angle Inn Lodge, Ballard’s Resort, Borderview Lodge, Morris Point Lakeview Lodge, PCE-Riverbend Resort, Rock Harbor Lodge, J&L Hennum-Sportsman’s Lodge, T&N Briggs-Wigwam Resort, Zippel Bay Resort, Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge; Bugsy’s on Bostic;

On-Sale and Sunday Liquor License:

First Ice Enterprises-Cyrus Resort, Ken-Mar-Ke Resort, Blue Eyed Chief Bar & Grill, Wheelers Point Resort, Bathel Enterprises- Slims Resort and Elkhorn Outfitters-Riverview Resort;

Off-Sale Only:

Log Cabin Liquors Inc;

Cigarette License:

Ballard’s Resort, Bay Store, Borderview Lodge, Cenex, City of Williams, City of Baudette, First Ice Enterprises-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, Rock Harbor Lodge, Slims Resort, Sportsman’s Lodge, Sportsman’s of Oak Island Lodge, Sunset Lodge, Andy’s Garages, 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:

Angle Outpost, Bay Store, Cyrus Resort, Border Bait, Blue Eyed Chief Bar & Grill, Long Point Resort, Flag Island. Oak Island Resort, Rock Harbor Lodge, Log Cabin Bait,

 Set-Up License:

Ships Wheel Resort.

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

Social Services

Claims

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

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $  8,867.40

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $24,330.16

YEARS OF SERVICE

Chairman Arnesen on behalf of the board thanked Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler on all she has done and accomplished in her years of service for Lake of the Woods County.

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

Recognition of years of service

Nancy Wendler

Resolution 2015 – 05– 03

Whereas:  Nancy Wendler has served the residents of Lake of the Woods County since March 19, 1984;

Whereas:  Nancy is retiring from Lake of the Woods County service effective May 29, 2015 with thirty–one years of service;

Now Therefore, Be it Resolved:  That Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners extends its deepest appreciation to Nancy for her dedicated service and  wishes her well on her retirement;

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

CORRESPONDENCE/COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Northwest Community Action- Open House June 19; 2001 Diamond Transit Bus; NWCA- score grant plan.

Recess

The meeting was called to recess at 9:40 a.m. and reconvened at 9:48 a.m. as follows:

county surveyor

County Surveyor, Donn Rasmussen met with the board requesting approval for a Surveyor’s Certificate of own plat errors; corrections pursuant to MN Statutes, Section 505.174. Donn informed the board that when Surveyor J.S. Gjelhaug created this plat there was an error which needs to be corrected on the Wigwam Boulevard section of the plat. The board reviewed the corrected plat information with Donn.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the Certificate of Plat Correction and authorize County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson and Chairman Arnesen to sign the following:

Pursuant to the provisions of Minnesota Statues, Chapter 505.175, I, Donn R. Rasmussen, a duly Licensed Land Surveyor in and for the state of Minnesota Declares as follows:

  1. That the plat of WHEELER’S POINT dated August 23, 1922 and filed on December 6, 1922 in the Office of the County Recorder, Beltrami County, Minnesota, as Document No. 103906 and refiled on December 24, 1925 in the Office of the County Recorder, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota, as Document Number 4128, was prepared by J.A. Gjelhaug who is not now available for the following reason; Deceased.
  2. That said plat contains errors, omissions, or defects described in particular as follows: The dimension across Wigwam Boulevard along the southwesterly extension of the southeasterly line of River Drive, shown on the plat as “39.93, is in error.
  3. That said plat is hereby corrected in particular as follows:

Wigwam Boulevard is designated on the plat as being 33 feet wide. The correct dimension, as mathematically calculated based on the angle between Wigwam Boulevard and River Drive as shown on the plat, is 34.93

I hereby certify that this Surveyor’s Certificate of Plat Correction was prepared by me or under my direct supervision and that I am a dully Licensed Surveyor under the laws of the State of Minnesota.

Don R. Rasmussen Licensed Land Surveyor, MN License No. 16102, April 23, 2015.

WELLNESS COMMITTEE

Angie Eason, Steve Sindelir and Curt Nuss met with the board to discuss the Profile by Sanford, which is a weight management program designed by Sanford Health physicians and scientists, as a Simple, Effective & Sustainable solution for weight loss. Angie informed the board that if Lake of the Woods County signs the participation Profile by Sanford, employees receive discounted prices for this program.  The consensus of the board was that they supported this program and authorized Chairman Arnesen, County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson and Wellness Committee Chair, Angie Eason to sign. The committee also discussed a possibility to have an Employee Garden behind the Public Works Department. The board concurred that the committee could go forward with the Employee Garden; also discussed a bike rack to be set up outside thru the Wellness Committee, the board gave consensus that it would be acceptable for the Wellness Committee to place a bike rack on county grounds.

 LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Conditional Use- J&L Hennum, Inc.

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund presented an application for Conditional Use Permit for J&L Hennum, Inc.  to allow a commercial business consisting of off-season storage of ice fishing house rental units in a Low Density Residential District and informed the board that the Planning Commission reviewed the application and recommends for approval.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, Seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the Conditional with conditions.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  J and L Hennum, Inc. (Gregg Hennum)                          Date:  May 26, 2015

Location/Legal Description:  Lots 15 and 16 Block 1, Birch Acres subdivision (s. 24, T. 162N, R. 32W)

Project Proposal:          A commercial business consisting of off-season storage of ice fishing house rental units in a Low Density Residential 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?  Resort area.

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

YES (  )  NO (  ) N/A (X)

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not?  Yes, but barriers will be considered.

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not?  Doesn’t change.

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

Why or why not?  Commercial activity in residential area and visual buffer establishment is required for compatibility.

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

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________ 

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________ 

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

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

Why or why not?  See conditions.

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

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

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

Why or why not?  No increase.

The specific conditions of approval are as follows:

  1. Either eight (8) foot spruce trees or a fence shall be planted/constructed to provide a visual buffer on west side parallel to existing road (trail) access to shop so fish houses are not visible from Fishery Road.
  2. Must observe ten (10) foot setback from property lines for storage of fish houses.
  3. Planting/construction of visual buffer to be completed within six (6) months from date of approval.

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

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

                                                                                    _____________________________________

                                                                                                            Edward Arnesen

                                                                                                        Chair, County Board

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

DITCH MAINTENANCE

The following were present to discuss Ditch Maintenance with the board; Jim Heins, Joe Grund, Don Smith, Terry Waibel, Jon Waibel, Mel Mollberg, George Swentik, Vern Horntvedt, David Marhula, Gary Bailey, Greg Cole, Steve Ellis, and Mike Reed. Individuals discussed their concerns of the conditions of the ditches, outlets not being cleaned, and outlets on private property that are blocked and beaver bounty. They discussed a ditch plan, cost share program for cleaning ditches, and communication difficulties with Public Works officials. The board discussed contacting Rinke-Noonan Law Firm, County Ditch Attorney for legal advice on cleaning ditches.

HUMAN RESOURCES

Medical Leave Request

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board to discuss her medical leave request. The consensus of the board was to honor Karen’s medical leave request as needed.

Department Heads Evaluations

Karen informed the board that she is half way through department head evaluation format.

Job Classifications

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose and Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board to discuss MN Merit System and job classification changes and adjustments.

  1. Child Support Supervisor I- Rated as Child Support Officer, Grade 11, Step 4, 19.64 per hour. Based on years of service in the position, he should now be graded as Child Support Supervisor 1. The Personnel Committee feels that this position is a Job Grade 12. If promoted to this position and Grade Level, the comparable step would be between Step 1 at $19.45 and Step 2 at $19.90. The Child Support Officer position will be retained at a grade level 11.
  2. Fiscal Supervisor 1- Rated as Fiscal Officer, Grade 12, Step 4, $20.80 per hour. The Personnel Committee recommends the new Job Title of Fiscal Supervisor 1 be adopted and used in lieu of Fiscal Officer. The Fiscal Officer position will be retained at a Grade Level 12. This would be a change in Job Title Only.
  3. Financial Assistance Supervisor 1- Currently the County’s employee is rated as Lead Eligibility Worker, Grade 11, Step 9+at 21.85. The Personnel Committee recommends a new grade level of 13 for the Financial Assistance Supervisor 1 position and changing this employee accordingly. A comparable Grade 13 step would be between Step 3 at $21.56 per hour and step 4 at $22.05 per hour. The lead Eligibility Worker position would be retained at a grade level 11.

These changes be proposed keeps Lake of the Woods ranges comparable with the Minnesota Merit System.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and unanimously carried to Change the following: Craig Severs from Child Support Officer to Child Support Supervisor 1, points 282, Grade 12, Step 2 at $19.90 per hour effective June 7, 2015; Angie Eason from Lead Eligibility Worker to Financial Assistance Supervisor 1, points 295, Grade 13, Step 4 at $22.05 per hour effective June 7, 2015 ; Christine Hultman job title from Fiscal Officer to Fiscal Supervisor 1, points 282, Grade 12, step 4, 20.80 per hour effective June 7, 2015.

Brush Trailer

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and explained that the “Brush Trailer” has not been placed yet at the county’s storage shed for they are making signs and fixing the lights and brakes.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 12:35 p.m. and reconvened at 1:12 p.m. as follows:

GREAT NORTHERN TRANSMISSION LINE

Jim Atiksons, Environmental Lead with Great Northern Transmission Line met with the board to review the proposed routes for the new transmission line.  The board is not favorable to the blue route because it affects more land owners. The board prefers the orange route.

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund presented and reviewed an application for Conditional Use Permit for Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District to construct a Wastewater treatment facility in a Natural Environment Area District and informed the board that the Planning Commission reviewed the application and recommends for approval. The following correspondence was acknowledge, Sherri Olson e-mail.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and unanimously carried to approve the Conditional Use Permit for Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District with conditions as follows:

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District                                  Date:  May 26, 2015

Location/Legal Description:  Section 33, Township 162N, Range 32W – N½, N½SW¼, N½SE¼

Project Proposal:  Construct a Wastewater Treatment Facility in a Natural Environment Area

  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?   See below and this project will address sewer/septic problems in the Wheeler’s Point area.

Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Land Use Plan Addendum (adopted 2/22/2011)

  • Proposed area serviced by the Sanitary District has been established as a high growth corridor.
  • Due to the high quality amenities and the desire of tourists and residents to be near such fabulous natural resources as Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River, the County would like to encourage growth in a responsible way along the growth corridor.
  • The Lake of the Woods high growth corridor will offer an exceptional quality of life to existing residents, future residents, and tourists interested in taking advantage of the unique natural resources and opportunities in the County.

Lake of the Woods County Comprehensive Land Use Plan (adopted 3/28/2000)

  • High Priority Issues
    • Businesses and residents clearly felt that timber harvesting and shoreland development have had the greatest effect on the county’s natural resources over the past decade. These two are of continuing importance to the county.
    • Preserving the county’s tax base is a high priority.
    • The county should provide a balanced approach to land use planning which takes into consideration individual rights, protection from the actions of others, and protection of the natural environment.
  • Summary of Values
    • Conservation:  Of the resources in the county. Those resources would be used in a way that they remain healthy for future generations.
    • Balance:  Between individual rights and the public’s welfare and between competing economic development and environmental protection objectives.
      • Existing Development
      • There is a substantial amount of existing development along the south shore of Lake of the Woods and Rainy River. In many of these cases, there are likely septic systems that do not conform to new ISTS regulations. Furthermore, in most of these cases, alternative sewage treatment system designs will be needed to bring these housing units into compliance.
  • Conclusions:
    • New shoreland-related residential and commercial development in Lake of the Woods County is moderate in scope. There has been some steady growth in shoreland development in the last ten years, with nearly all of it being residential and resort-related. This growth has occurred on the islands, and in places such as Rocky Point, Long Point, Sandy Shores, and Wheeler’s Point.
    • Septic systems within the existing and older residential and resort-related developments along Lake of the Woods shoreland are likely nonconforming and will need alternative system design to be brought into compliance. Most of the older septic systems are nonconforming, and the traditional solutions are not appropriate for these areas because of the small lots in the area. On the other hand, these systems are likely not to provide a significant health or safety threat to area properties if the wells that are used for drinking water are deep wells that draw their water from the confined aquifer.
  • Future Land Use Plan
    • Goals
      • Enhance the economic opportunities available for individuals and businesses in the county in ways that are compatible with long term environmental quality.
      • Maintain tax base of the county so quality services can be provided.
      • 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.
      • 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.
    • Future Land Use Map
      • This future land use plan map is meant to be a guide for future development patterns and a guide for future land use policy and decision–making by Lake of the Woods County.
      • Rural Development Activity – Existing and future development areas which are with one-half mile of currently developed lands, but excluding lands that are either in public ownership, classes as wetlands, or more than one mile from an existing road. Future developments may include industrial, commercial, tourism, residential or other uses as appropriate to the site characteristics and neighborhood character.
      • Strategies for:  Shoreland Development
  1. Develop a resource package (technical and possibly financial) to assist groups of property owners in older, dense lakeshore development areas to investigate joint options for upgrading septic systems.
  2. Is the project proposal consistent with maintaining the public health, safety, and welfare?

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?   This project will eliminate the failing septic systems within the Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District area. All discharge from the proposed treatment facility will meet MPCA guidelines prior to land application occurring. This project is meant to address known sewage issues in the Wheeler’s Point area.

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?   This project will eliminate the failing septic systems within the Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District area. All discharge from the proposed treatment facility will meet MPCA guidelines prior to land application occurring.  Construction of ponds will meet MPCA standards. This project is meant to address known sewage issues in the Wheeler’s Point 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?   Adjacent drainage features are to be maintained and possible realignment may be needed to accommodate for center pivot irrigation. Possible construction of berms to reduce/eliminate surface runoff onto/leaving the site. The site will remain in agriculture with the exception of approximate 16 acres.

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

Why or why not?   The project site is not located in a 100 or 500 year floodplain and/or floodway.

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

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

Why or why not?   Possible construction of vegetative berms to reduce/eliminate surface runoff onto/leaving the site. Land under center pivot irrigation to be hayed/mowed at allowable intervals by MPCA.

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

Why or why not?   Project site is currently serviceable by two county roads on the north and east sides. Relocation of current field road access may be needed to allow access to the pond location and to adjacent agricultural field.

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

Why or why not?   The site will meet or exceed the required MPCA setback requirements. Planning Commission recommend vegetative buffer establishment. The site will remain in agriculture with the exception of approximate 16 acres.

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

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

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

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

Why or why not?   The amount of treated effluent to be irrigated across the site is limited to MPCA discharge limitation based upon several conditions such as, but not limited to soil type, flow, evaporation, etc.

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?   This location will not be visible from public waters.

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

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

Why or why not?   Water supply wells and on-site sewage treatment systems have been established on properties within the vicinity of this proposed location; however, no habitable structures are to be constructed.

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 proposed use of property does not generate the type, uses, and number of watercraft affecting 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 use does not include above or below ground storage tanks for petroleum or other hazardous materials subject to MPCA requirements.

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?   Fencing will be required by MPCA around the pond location and Planning Commission recommended a visible buffer of trees to be established on the North and Northwest portions of the property.

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?   Signage is required on the fence around the pond site. No Trespassing signs are proposed around the entire site that indicates this as a sewage treatment site.

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?   Additional traffic is necessary for periodic sampling of effluent prior to discharge and maintenance of facility. Licensed pumpers may occasional use the site to dispose of effluent.

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

The specific conditions of approval are as follows:

  1. The pond must have aeration.
  2. Must establish a visual barrier consisting of coniferous trees as long as it is conforms to MPCA requirements and other agencies along the north and northwest portions of the property.
  3. Licensed pumpers must be able to utilize the site to dispose of effluent at any time of the year.
  4. A wetland delineation must be conducted and approved by the reviewing agencies.
  5. Easements or other formal agreement must be established to conduct drainage maintenance on existing ditches within project site or adjacent to the site.
  6. Adhere to MPCA requirements for construction, discharge, and operations and maintenance.

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

_____________________________________

                                                                                                            Edward Arnesen

                                                                                                        Chair, County Board

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

GEORGE SWENTIK

George Swentik met with the board to discuss communication issues that he has encountered with the Public Works department and drainage concerns.

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 4:05 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: May 26, 2015

_______________________                                                  _________________________________

Lorene Hanson,                                                                       Chairman of the Board, Edward ArnesenCounty Auditor/Treasurer

April, 2015

Commissioner Proceedings

April 14, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, April 14, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen 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, Thomas Hanson, Ed Arnesen, Buck Nordlof, and Ken Moorman.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor /Treasurer Janet Rudd and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Mighty Ducks Grant, MN Department of Human Services, Human Resources, Land and Water Planning.

Approval of Consent Agenda

None

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of March 24, 2015.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                           Revenue                              $    46,622.52            

                                                Road & Bridge                    $    19,737.82

                                                Co. Develop                        $      2,200.00

                                                Natl Recs Enhance              $    10,193.50

                                                Solid Waste                         $    31,812.08

                                                EDA                                    $       4,525.85

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 4/14/2015 For Payment 4/17/2015

Vendor Name                                     Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                                                5,481.60

Computer Professionals Unlimited Inc                                               3,071.00

Howard’s Oil Company                                                        2,086.90

Jake’s Quality Tire Inc                                                          2,400.00

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                                    13,251.15

Mn Counties Information System                                        2,375.25

Northwest Community Action, Inc                                       2,210.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                              3,155.10

RFCC, LLC                                                                             9,750.00

Rinke-Noonan                                                                     10,393.50

Shi Corp                                                                                 2,324.00

Sjoberg’s Inc                                                                          2,238.08

St. Louis County Auditor                                                       2,000.00

Swanston Equipment Corp                                                  6,464.11

University Of Mn                                                                   8,441.25

Woody’s Service                                                                   3,633.73

Ziegler, Inc                                                                             6,605.51

  83 Payments less than $2000                                           31,210.59

                Final Total:                                                       $117,091.77

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

                                                April 2, 2015                    $   10,750.37

April 2, 2015                    $   99,553.06

April 6, 2015                    $113,046.34

April 9, 2015                    $        918.93

April 9, 2015                    $     3,130.38                     

Rinke Noonan

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting the board to enter into   the 2015 retainer agreement with Rinke Noonan Law Office.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioners Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to enter into the 2015 retainer agreement with Rinke Noonan Law firm in the amount of $200 per month and authorize Chairman Arnesen to sign.

Social Security for Elected Officials on the Defined Contribution Plan

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board and presented the Resolution for Social Security for Elected Officials holding position covered by the Defined Contribution Plan per their request.

Resolution

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

SOCIAL SECURITY RESOLUTON

ELECTED OFFICIALS HOLDING POSITIONS COVERED BY

THE DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLAN

Resolution Number 2015 – 04-01

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes Section 355, as amended, establishes procedures that allow a governmental subdivision to extend Social Security coverage to certain local elected officials who are members of, or are eligible for membership in, the Defined Contribution Plan administered by the Public Employees Retirement Association; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners desires to offer Social Security coverage to its eligible elected officials.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners does hereby adopt the following resolution:

Section 1. It is hereby declared to be the policy of this governing body to extend the provisions of Minnesota Statutes Section 355.02 that provides Social Security coverage to eligible elected officials of the Lake of the Woods County.

Section 2. In pursuance of said policy, this governing body hereby requests and authorizes the execution of a divided vote referendum under Section 218(d)(6) of the Social Security Act for the purpose of allowing current eligible elected officials the option of paying the Social Security tax. The coverage of current local elected officials shall be effective as of January 1, 2016, for those eligible officials who vote “Yes” in the Social Security referendum. The referendum will be conducted pursuant to applicable state and federal laws and regulations by County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson, a designee of the governmental subdivision under the supervision of a representative of the Public Employees Retirement Association acting as the designated State Social Security Administrator.

Section 3. The Public Employees Retirement Association is hereby directed to execute a modification to the section 218 Agreement between the State of Minnesota and the Secretary of Health and Human Services to secure Social Security coverage of the eligible elected officials who vote “Yes” in the referendum and all local newly-elected officials of this governmental subdivision.

Section 4. Withholdings from the salaries of elected officials for the purposes provided in this resolution are hereby authorized to be made in the amounts and at such times as may be required by applicable federal and state laws and regulations.

Section 5. Employer contributions shall be paid from amounts appropriated for such purposes and payment of employee and employer contributions shall be paid to the Internal Revenue Service in such amounts and at such times as are designated in Internal Revenue Code.

Section 6. Employees of this governmental subdivision shall maintain such records and submit such reports as may be required by the Public Employees Retirement Association, the Social Security Administration or the Internal Revenue Service.

Section 7. This resolution shall take effect and be in full force from and after its passage

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

Take-A- Kid Fishing

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting authorization to pay the Take-A-Kid Fishing $600 from the con-con fund as budgeted.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson to pay the Take-A-Kid Fishing $600 as budgeted from the con-con fund.

Snowmobile Trails Resolutions

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board and presented resolutions for legal sponsorship for funding from the State of Minnesota for maintenance of snowmobile trails managed by Northwest Angle Edge Riders Club, Border Trails/TJ Grooming and Lake of the Woods Drifters.

Resolutions

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

Resolution No. 15-04-02

Sponsorship of Snowmobile Trails Assistance Program

BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County will act as the legal sponsor for an application for funding to the State of Minnesota Department of Natural Resource for NW Angle Islands maintenance of snowmobile trails managed by Northwest Angle Edge Riders Club.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that upon approval of its application by the state, the Lake of the Woods County may enter into an agreement with the State of Minnesota for the above referenced project and that it will comply with all applicable laws and regulations as stated in the agreement.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that County Auditor-Treasurer, Lorene G Hanson is hereby authorized to serve as the fiscal agent for the above referenced project.

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

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

Resolution No. 15-04-03

Sponsorship of Snowmobile Trails Assistance Program

BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County will act as the legal sponsor for an application for funding to the State of Minnesota Department of Natural Resource for Border Trails maintenance of snowmobile trails managed by Border Trails/TJ Grooming.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that upon approval of its application by the state, the Lake of the Woods County may enter into an agreement with the State of Minnesota for the above referenced project and that it will comply with all applicable laws and regulations as stated in the agreement.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that County Auditor-Treasurer, Lorene G Hanson is hereby authorized to serve as the fiscal agent for the above referenced project.

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

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

Resolution No. 15-04-04

Sponsorship of Snowmobile Trails Assistance Program

BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County will act as the legal sponsor for an application for funding to the State of Minnesota Department of Natural Resource for Big Traverse maintenance of snowmobile trail managed by Lake of the Woods Drifters.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that upon approval of its application by the state, the Lake of the Woods County may enter into an agreement with the State of Minnesota for the above referenced project and that it will comply with all applicable laws and regulations as stated in the agreement.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that County Auditor-Treasurer, Lorene Hanson is hereby authorized to serve as the fiscal agent for the above referenced project.

The resolution was seconded by Commissioner Nordlof 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

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 30,596.10

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 46,308.75

                                                Commissioners; Warrants          $        40.35

MN Department Of Human Services

Chairman Arnesen reviewed the Human Service financial reporting requirements and the timely reports requirements that they received from the Department of Human Services with Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler. The board commended her and her staff on their excellent review.

COUNTY ASSESSOR

County Assessor, Mary Jo Otten met with the board requesting approval to hire Assessment Specialist/Office Manager.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to authorize County Assessor, Mary Jo Otten to hire Assessment Specialist/Office Manager/ at grade 10, points 246, step 1, at $17.34 per hour.

HUMAN RESOURCE

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board requesting approval to purchase a digital recorder and software for her office.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to authorize Human Resource Director, Karen Ose to purchase a digital recorder and software in the amount of $150.

Website Changes

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose met with the board to discuss website changes for a tab for employment opportunities. The board requested that she discuss this with MIS department.

Additional Hours

Human Resource Director, Karen Ose requested authorization to work additional hours when needed, but would not be over the maximum hours per year for a Permanent Part-time employee. The board approved her request.

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARMENT

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and presented a resolution for the Clementson Way Side Rest Area. Tim explained that this resolution needs to be passed before the conveyance of the land can be completed.

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION NO. 15-04-05

A Resolution Agreeing that Lake of the Woods County will reserve, perpetuate and maintain any future and/or inplace Trail/Sidewalk on the area known as the Clementson Way Side Rest Area.

WHEREAS, on December 31, 2013 Lake of the Woods County Commissioners approved a letter requesting conveyance of property from the  Minnesota Department of Transportation (“MnDOT”) on said parcel: C.S. 3902 (11=011) 73A Parcel 2; and,

WHEREAS, MnDOT is requesting at the time of purchase, an approved resolution agreeing that the County will reserve, perpetuate and maintain any future and/or inplace trail/sidewalk on this property currently and in the future; and,

WHEREAS, under M. S. 161.44, Subd. 1a of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities-Suitability Checklist, MnDOT is able to satisfy their requirements of selling this site to the County; and,

WHEREAS, the County intends to construct a park within the area known as the Clementson Way Side Rest Area.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY, MINNESOTA:

  1. The County will reserve, perpetuate and maintain any future and/or inplace trail/sidewalk on the area known as the Clementson Way Side Rest Area, now and in the future.

            Adopted in April 14, 2015 session of the County Commissioners of County of Lake of the Woods, Minnesota, held this 14th day of April, 2015.

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

HEAD WATERS REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

HRDC Executive Director, Tim Flathers, Emergency Management Director Jill Olson and DNR Region Staff Fire Management & Enforcement, William J “BJ” Glesener met with the board to review the Northwest Angle Community Wildfire Protection Plan and requesting approval of the plan.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the Northwest Angle Community Wildfire Protection Plan and authorize Chairman Arnesen to sign.

MIGHTY DUCKS LEGISLATION

Chairman Arnesen presented a letter of support for the Mighty Ducks legislation SF2002 to support $5 million dollars in the general fund budget for community ice arenas.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to authorize Chairman Arnesen to sign the letter of support for the Mighty Ducks legislation SF 2002,

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 10:19 a.m. and reconvened at 10:30 a.m. as follows:

SHERIFF

Permanent Part-time Deputy Sheriff

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting authorization to hire a Permanent Part-time Deputy Sheriff.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to authorize County Sheriff, Gary Fish to hire a Permanent Part-time Deputy Sheriff at grade 12, points 28112, step 1, at 19.45 hour.

Credit Cards

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting authorization to issue county credit cards to Deputy Sheriffs and Emergency Management Director.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Norldof and unanimously carried to authorize Deputy Sheriffs Brad Abby, Joe Morish, Ben Duick, and Emergency Management Director Jill Olson County issued credit cards.

Boat and Water Safety Grant

County Sheriff, Gary Fish met with the board requesting approval to enter into a Water Safety Grant agreement.

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

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ANNUAL

BOAT & WATER SAFETY GRANT

Resolution No. 2015-04-06

WHEREAS, under the provisions of M.S.86B.105, the Sheriff of each county is required to carry out the provisions of Chapter 86B, and the boat and water safety rules promulgated by the Commissioner of Natural Resources; and,

WHEREAS, M.S. Section 86b.701 and the MN Rules provided for the allocation of funds by the Commissioner to assist in the funding of the Sheriff’s duties.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Chairman, Auditor and Sheriff are hereby authorized to execute the annual county boat and water safety agreement, for the period of January 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016 in the amount of $6,235.

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

Lake of the Woods Community Arena

Lake of the Woods Community Arena Committee met with the board and presented the plan for the possible construction of a new arena. Member Mike Schulz informed the board of the 5 million dollar gift to construct a new Arena and the projected cost of the project at 7.5 million. Ten (10) acres of land has been purchased from the School in the amount of $1; committee is fund raising for the remaining balance and In- kind services.

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and presented a resolution for support the International Joint Commission to create a sustainability plan for Lake of the Woods. The board placed this on the April 28, 2015 board agenda.

COUNTY ATTORNEY

Count Attorney, James Austad met with the board to discuss a HF 1935 relating to religious objection to autopsies in certain cases and the cost associated with the coroner to appear in person at court hearing. The board requested County Attorney to act on this on behalf of the County Board.

CLOSED SESSION

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and unanimously carried to close the regular meeting at 12:20 p.m. and open the closed session pursuant to §MN Stat. 13D.05 subd. 3(b) Attorney-Client Privilege- Wetlands Litigation.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and unanimously carried to close the closed session and open the regular meeting at 1:09 p.m.

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 1:09 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: April 28, 2015

_______________________                                                  _________________________________

Lorene Hanson,                                                                       Chairman of the Board, Edward Arnesen

County Auditor/Treasurer      

=======================================================================================================

Commissioner Proceedings

April 28, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, April 28, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen 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, Ed Arnesen, Buck Nordlof, Ken Moorman, absent Thomas Hanson.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor /Treasurer Janet Rudd and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: grant Agreement, letter of resignation and interim appointment, correction of Main Street in Williams area.

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda, travel for Mary JO Ottento St. Cloud for MAAO Summer Seminars on May 20-21 and to Morris for CPU Computer Meeting (CAMA & LC) on May 28th; 

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of April 14, 2015.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                           Revenue                              $    11,505.56            

                                                Road & Bridge                    $      8,950.12

                                                Co. Develop                        $      1,600.00

                                                Solid Waste                         $         993.61

                                                EDA                                    $           80.00

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 4/28/2015 For Payment 5/1/2015

Vendor Name                                     Amount

Goulet/Roxanne B                                                                            2,653.60

Hasler                                                                                4,000.00

Northern Light Region                                                    2,213.25

  42 Payments less than $2000                                      14,262.44

                Final Total:                                                   $ 23,129.29

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

                                                April 17, 2015                  $   81,841.92

April 17, 2015                  $     5,339.99

NWA AIRPORT GRANT AGREEMENT

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting the board to enter into a grant agreement with the State of MN, Commissioner of Transportation for airport improvement project for the Preliminary Engineering for the NWA airport. 

Resolution

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

Resolution No. 2015-04-07

Authorization to Execute Minnesota Department of

Transportation Grant Agreement for Airport Improvement

Excluding Land Acquisition

It is resolved by the County of Lake of the Woods as follows:

  1. That the state of Minnesota Agreement No. 1000365 “Grant Agreement for Airport Improvement Excluding Land Acquisition for State Project No. A3902-02 at the North West Angle Airport is accepted.
  2. That Chairman, Edward Arnesen and County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson is authorized to execute this Agreement and any amendments on behalf of the County of Lake of the Woods.

The resolution was seconded by Commissioner Nordlof 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

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 10,889.36

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 33,439.46

Resolution

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

Resolution No. 15-04-08

Request for Proposals for Health Care Services

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Department of Human Services has published a Request For Proposals to provide health care services to recipients of Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare in 87 Minnesota counties including Lake of the Woods and

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Department of Human Services has requested County evaluations and recommendations regarding the RFP proposals from each respective county; and

WHEREAS, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Medica, and UCare submitted proposals to provide managed health care services in Lake of the Woods County and

WHEREAS, representatives of Lake of the Woods County Social Services have reviewed and evaluated the proposals; and

WHEREAS, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Medica, and UCare have submitted proposals suitable to meet our needs

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners supports the recommendation of Lake of the Woods County Social Services approving BlueCross/Blue Shield, Medica, and UCare as Managed Care Organization(s) (MCO(s)) providing managed health care services in Lake of the Woods County.

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

Child Abuse and neglect Prevention Month

Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board and informed the board that the Commissioner of the Minnesota, Department of Human Services, proclaims the month of April, 2015 as Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month.

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and presented a resolution for support the International Joint Commission to create a sustainability plan for Lake of the Woods.

Resolution

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

Resolution No. 15-04-09

Support for a Comprehensive Plan to Create a Sustainability Plan for Lake of the Woods

WHEREAS, the health and sustainability of Lake of the Woods is of vital importance to the social and economic sustainable development of Lake of the Woods County;

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has placed Lake of the Woods on its list of impaired waters (2008 303[d] list);

WHEREAS, due to concerns about  water quality of the Lake of the Woods Basin and the economic, recreational and human health threats posed by the widespread blue-green algal blooms and associated toxins and the threats of invasive species, U.S. and Canadian federal governments requested an action plan from the International Joint Commission (IJC).

WHEREAS, the IJC responded with a comprehensive Plan of Study outlining 32 projects necessary to create a sustainability plan for Lake of the Woods, including reducing nutrient pollution and harmful algal blooms, managing aquatic invasive species, and establishing a coordinated bi-national monitoring approach; said Plan of Study was submitted by the IJC to the U.S. State Department and to the Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development in January 2015;

WHEREAS, the IJC is awaiting response and direction from the U.S. State Department and the Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development about the Plan of Study and how it would be executed and funded;

WHEREAS, agencies engaged in water quality research and resource management (at the federal, provincial, state, local and non-governmental levels), are waiting for a response; the summer research season is approaching and a timely response could permit the projects to begin, without another year’s delay;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED : that, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby supports the IJC’s recommendation that governments undertake all thirty-two projects in the Plan of Study;

That, a copy of this resolution shall be forwarded to the State of Minnesota, the U.S. Department of State, and the Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation

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

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and reviewed the 911 Policy and requesting approval.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the 911 Policy for Uniform Addressing System as presented,

Main Street Williams Area

The board discussed the two main street addresses; one in the City of Williams and one on the outskirt of the city and the need for a change in the street name outside the city limits due to 911 concerns. The 911 committee will research and come up with a resolution.

Easement Vacation

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson and Pat LaValla discussed an easement vacation with the board and the process of the vacation.

Resignation

Public Works director informed the Board the Jeff Pelland, Maintenance Supervisor resigned from his position effective May 8, 2015; and that he appointed Mike Anderson, as the interim maintenance supervisor until the position is filled and requested $250 per pay period for his additional duties.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to authorize payment of $250 per pay period to interim Maintenance Supervisor Mike Anderson effective April 27, 2015 until position is filled.

CORRESPONDENCE:

Letter from Representative Hancock on Mighty Ducks legislation; Great Northern Transmission line meeting.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Commissioner Beckel- Airport Meeting, Legacy Funding Meeting

Commissioner Moorman- NC Board of Health

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 10:55 a.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: May 12, 2015

_______________________                                                  _________________________________

Lorene Hanson,                                                                       Chairman of the Board, Edward Arnesen

County Auditor/Treasurer      

March, 2015

Commissioner Proceedings

March 10, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 10, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:01 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Patty Beckel, Thomas Hanson, Ed Arnesen, Buck Nordlof, and Ken Moorman.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor /Treasurer Janet Rudd and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Travel for Josh Stromlund, Woman of Today and S E H update.

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Karen Ose to St. Cloud for MN Counties Human Resource Association meeting on April 8-10; Heather Blodgett to Bemidji for Protection/Child Welfare Foundations, on April 7-9, May 5-7, June 2-4; Josh Stromlund to St. Paul for Wetland Meeting on March 9-10.

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of March 10, 2015.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                           Revenue                              $    37,855.62            

                                                Road & Bridge                    $    24,004.24

                                                Co. Develop                        $         200.00

                                                Solid Waste                         $     14,141.27

                                                EDA                                    $          554.56

                                                                                76,755.69

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 3/10/2015 For Payment 3/13/2015

Vendor Name                                               Amount

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc.                                                    8,924.11

Computer Professionals Unlimited Inc                                   3,071.00

Howard’s Oil Company                                            2,859.33

Information Systems Corporation                         19,080.00

KRIS Engineering Inc                                               7,817.92

Mar-Kit Landfill                                                          9,355.50

Neopost Great Plains                                               2,764.60

Woody’s Service                                                       4,204.89

           53 Payments less than  2000                       18,678.34

Final Total:                                                            76,755.69

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

                                                March 5, 2015                  $185,202.03

March 5, 2015                  $    6,906.90

PERA CORRECTIONAL PLAN

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board and informed the board that the vote for the PERA Correctional Plan went through with no social security to be taken out of the Correctional Employees salary.

EXTENSION

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval for Extension to purchase a computer.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of a computer in the amount of $1,324.72 from the extension fund.

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting authorization to purchase a snowplow truck as budgeted for 2015.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to authorize Public Works Director, Tim Erickson to purchase a snowplow in the amount of $207,404.16 from the public works funds.

Five Year Road Construction Update-MN Pollution Control-Clementson Property

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and informed them that he spoke with MN DOT on CR 80 and they will be up next week to look at the culvert and draining issues; informed the board that there will be a meeting in Thief River Falls on March 12 at 9:30 a.m. to discuss curbside recycling; State is working on the conveyance of the Clementson property and cost associated with the property.

WOMEN OF TODAY

Chairman Arnesen informed the board that the Women of Today requested their allocation for Post Prom.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the donation of $100.00 to the Women of Today for the 2015 Prom.

CORRESPONDENCE

S E H – NWA update.

MN Pilots Association- encouragement letter to continue progress in creating a new NWA Airport.

Lake of the Woods County Historical Society- Museum Ground Enhancement Planning Sessions.

RECESS

The meeting was called to recess at 9:56 a.m. and reconvened at 10:02 a.m. as follows:

Social Services Director

Claims

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

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 12,710.25

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $   9,588.14

Mental Health Contract

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board requesting approval to enter into CY2015 Adult Mental Health Grants in the amount of $50,735.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to enter into the CY2015 Adult Mental Health Grant and authorize Chairman Arnesen and Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler to sign.

Social Service Director

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board to discuss her upcoming retirement at the end of May and the replacement of her position.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to authorize Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler and Human Resources Director, Karen Ose to advertise for Social Services Director.

LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE

Commissioners Arnesen and Moorman reviewed topics that they attended at the Legislative Conference.

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 10:50 a.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: March 24, 2015

_______________________                                                  _________________________________

Lorene Hanson,                                                                       Chairman of the Board, Edward Arnesen

County Auditor/Treasurer      

==========================================================================================================

Commissioner Proceedings

march 24, 2015

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 24, 2015, in the Commissioners’ Room at the Government Center.

Call to Order

Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to order at 9:01 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Patty Beckel, Thomas Hanson, Ed Arnesen, Buck Nordlof, and Ken Moorman.  Also present were: County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor /Treasurer Janet Rudd and Woody Fiala.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Travel for Lorene Hanson and Christine Hultman, Satisfaction of Mortgage, Commissioner Hanson to meet with DNR and Commissioners Social Security.

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Dena Pieper, Crime & Victimization Conference in Brainerd May 13-15, Marti Carlson, MN Co. Highway Accountants Assoc. Annual Conference in Alexandria,   April 29 – May 1; Jo Thoreson, Clerical Conference in Brainerd May 6- 8; and Lorene Hanson and Christine Hultman, Payroll Conference in St. Cloud on March 26-27;

Approval of Minutes

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of March 10, 2015.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval of claims.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the county as follows:

                                           Revenue                              $    28,341.58            

                                                Road & Bridge                    $      8,329.54

                                                Co. Develop                        $     48,000.00

                                                Natl Recs Enhance              $          727.00

                                                Solid Waste                         $       3,578.75

                                                EDA                                    $       4,901.50

                                                                                93,878.37

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 3/24/2015 For Payment 3/27/2015

Vendor Name                                          Amount

Dell Marketing, Lp                                                                            8,594.00

LOW Historical Society                                                 48,000.00

Northwest Community Action, Inc                                  4,901.50

                                                R & Q Trucking, Inc                                                         2,837.65

Voyageurs Comtronics, Inc                                                            2,640.00

64 Payments less than  $2000                                                       26,905.22

                Final Total:                                                   $93,878.37

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

                                                March 11, 2015                $ 627,009.31

March 13, 2015                $     9,053.57

March 19, 2015                $     6,346.31

March 19, 2015                $   51,174.05         

Oak Harbor Liquor License

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval for a Seasonal On- Sale/Sunday Liquor License.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve Oak Harbor Golf Course Seasonal On- Sale/Sunday Liquor License effective April 15, 2015 thru October 15, 2015.

North Country Community Health Services

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval to enter into a Joint Powers Agreement.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to enter into a Joint Powers Agreement with Counties of Beltrami, Hubbard and Clearwater known as the North Country Community Health Service, effective January 1, 2015 thru December 31, 2019 and authorize County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson and Chairman Arnesen to sign.

Women of Today

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval to sign the application to conduct Bingo Activity for the Women of Today.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer to sign the application for Lake of the Woods Women of Today to conduct bingo activities.

Tier I and Tier II Contracts

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting approval to enter into Department of Natural Resources ELS Tier I and Tier II contracts.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to authorize Deputy Registrar, Janet Rudd to sign the St. of MN, Department of Natural Resources ELS Tier II contract effective upon the date that the final required signature is obtained thru June 30, 2019.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson to sign the St. of MN, Department of Natural Resource ELS Tier I contract effective upon the date that the final required signature is obtained thru June 30, 2019.

Satisfaction of Mortgage

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board requesting authorization to sign the Satisfaction of Mortgage for Crystal Ferrier.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to authorize Chairman Arnesen and County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson to sign the Satisfaction of Mortgage on Lot One (1) and Two (2), Block Four (4), second addition to Baudette, according to the recorded plat thereof.

Social Services Director

Claims

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

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Moorman and carried unanimously to approve the following claims against the county.

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 21,245.53

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 14,882.83

Social SECURITY-COMMISSIONERS

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson met with the board and updated the board on their request of information on Social Security options for elected Commissioners, which are eligible for membership in the Defined Contribution Plan administered by the Public Employees Retirement Association. The board placed this on the April 14, 2015 board agenda

Rescue Equipment

Chairman Arnesen discussed a toboggan for emergency situation at the NWA with County Sheriff, Gary Fish. Gary concurred that this equipment is needed at the NWA and will talk with Jason Goulet and report back to the board.

LEGACY AMENDMENT FUNDS TRAINING

Commissioner Hanson informed the board that there will be Legacy Amendment Funds Training in Bemidji on April 15 and in Thief River Falls on April 16 for those who would be interested in attending.

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARMENT

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board to set the Annual Road Tour.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Beckel, seconded by Commissioner Hanson and carried unanimously to set the 2015 Annual Road tour for May 19, 2015 at 7:30 a.m.

BID OPENING RESULTS

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board and informed them that Knife River Materials was the lowest responsible bidder for construction of S.A.P. 039-601-028; 039-601-029 and 039-627-004.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson, seconded by Commissioner Nordlof and carried unanimously to award the bid to the lowest responsible bidder, Knife River Materials for construction of S.A.P. 039-601-028, S.A.P. 039-601-029 and S.A.P. 039-627-004 in the amount of $1,309,865.19.

SEASONAL HELP

Public Works Director, Tim Erickson met with the board requesting authorization to hire seasonal help.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Beckel and carried unanimously to authorize Public Works Director, Tim Erickson and Human Resource Director, Karen Ose to advertise and hire for seasonal help.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Commissioner Moorman reported that the Prevention Coalition is not going to pursue the Social Host Ordinance; Joint Powers  Natural Resources meeting they discussed the Poly Met Project.

Commissioner Arnesen reported on the MN Pollution Control meeting in Thief River Falls on recyclable standards; Commissioners Hanson informed the board that he was contacted by the DNR to meet with them on discussion of Land Acquisition that the DNR wants to purchase; the board agreed that Commissioner Hanson should attend the meeting.

CORRESPONDENCE

Lake of the Woods Basin meeting on March 27, 2015 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Ambulance Garage; MN Red River Valley Association March 28, 2015 at University of MN Crookston;

TRAPPING BILLS

Leslie Huerd met with the board to discuss the MN State Legislatures bills that have been introduced on changes of trapping regulations, and if passed the negative impact it would cause for trappers.

RESOLUTION

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

RESOLUTION IN OPPOSITION OF HF 1655, 1070, 1317 and SF 1325, 1070 and 592

Resolution No.  15-03- 01

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED; that Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners opposes HF 1655, SF 1325, HF1070, SF 1070, HF 1317and SF 1592 as written, as they are contrary on how we control beavers in Lake of the Woods County.

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

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chairman Arnesen called the meeting to recess at 10:55 a.m.

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: March 24, 2015

_______________________                                                  _________________________________

Lorene Hanson,                                                                       Chairman of the Board, Edward Arnesen

County Auditor/Treasurer