Commissioner Proceedings

November 24, 2020

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, November 24, 2020 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room. 

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following additions: Sheriff/Jail Update, Auditor-Treasurer/Hoffman, Philipp & Knutson Multi-Year Audit Services Agreement, and Emergency Management/Credit Card Limit Increase.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the official and summarized minutes of November 10, 2020.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrant’s $19,862.03, Commissioners Warrant’s $1,289.88, Commissioners Warrant’s $7,795.37.

Approval of Contract with Tri-Valley for Volunteer Driver Services

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Contract for Rural Transportation Collaborative Volunteer Driver Services with Tri-Valley and for Social Services Director Amy Ballard to sign the same.

Approval of Children’s Mental Health Grant Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Minnesota Department of Human Services County Grant Contract with the State of Minnesota’s Department of Human Services, Behavioral Health Division and for Social Services Director Amy Ballard to sign the same.

AUDITOR/TREASURER

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the additional COVID-19 claims and warrants against the County to be paid by Auditor Warrants.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $49,069.26; Road & Bridge $19,968.54; County Development $200; Solid Waste $16,550.50.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 11/24/2020 For Payment 11/25/2020

Vendor Name Amount

Counties Providing Technology 3,751.00

DSC Communications 3,590.00

Element Materials Technology 18,670.00

Lakewood Health Center 11,250.00

North East Technical Service,Inc 3,628.74

R & Q Trucking, Inc 2,575.00

Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc 4,078.26

Titan Energy Systems, Inc 2,853.60

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

Voice Products 6,714.58

WatchGuard Video 4,720.00

38 Payments less than 2000   17,688.62

                                  Final Total: 85,788.30

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: November 9, 2020 for $470,858.47, November 9, 2020 for ($60,000), November 12, 2020 for $179,353.82 and November 18, 2020 for $126,573.84.

Affidavit of Lost Warrant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the application and affidavit for lost warrant for Bobby J. Beggs, dated March 13, 2020 for $144.60 without furnishing indemnifying bond.

Resolution for Election Polling Places

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

A Resolution Establishing County Precincts and Polling Places

Resolution 20-11-04

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes, Section §204B16, Subdivision 1 requires that by December 31^st of each year, the County must designate by resolution a polling place for each election precinct; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, State of Minnesota hereby establishes polling places of the following County precincts: Baudette City Hall – Precincts 1B and 2B; Lake of the Woods County Government Center – All Mail Precincts including: 1A, 2A, 2C, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 4A, 4B, 4C, 5A, 5B, 5C and 5D.  

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

MN Department of Revenue Lodging Tax Collection Agreement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to enter into an agreement with the Minnesota Department of Revenue for collection of local lodging tax for Lake of the Woods County and for Chairman Jon Waibel and Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Government Management Group Services Agreement 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to enter into an agreement with Government Management Group for Services Cost Allocation Plans in the amount of $3,750 for fiscal years ending December 31, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 and authorize Chairman Jon Waibel to sign the same.

Con-Con Fund Application Review 

Lake of the Woods County Development Year 2021

Baudette Arena Association Inc: $12,500
Lake of the Woods International Ice Arena: $40,000

Williams Arena: $7,000

Economic Development Authority: $10,000

Depot Preservation Alliance: $5,000

Friends Against Abuse: $2,500

LOW Historical Society: $17,665

LOW Humane Society: $7,500

U of M Extension: $2,000

Williams Public Library: $650

Joint Powers Natural Resources Board: $1,000

LOW Rod and Gun Club: $1,500

LOW School Trap Team: $2,000

LOW Senior Fishing: $1,500

Rinke-Noonan-Retainer-Drainage: $2,400

St Louis County Auditor: $2,000

Take A Kid Fishing: $1,000

Williams Youth Recreation Assoc: $3,000

Widseth Smith Nolting: $16,000

Audit Fees: $900

Beaver Control Damage: $10,000

Drainage: $10,000

Total Approved Contributions for 2021: $156,115       

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to make allocations to the above organizations from the Con-Con funds, payable 2021.

Hoffman, Philipp & Knutson Multi-Year Audit Services Agreement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to authorize entering into the multi-year audit agreement with Hoffman, Philipp, and Knutson, PLLC for audit services of Lake of the Woods County for years ended December 31, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 at a fee of $29,000 per year and for Chair Jon Waibel and Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

FRIENDS AGAINST ABUSE – Jenell Feller

Jenell Feller gave an update to the Board on the Friends Against Abuse program in Baudette.

RECESS

The Board took a brief recess at 9:55 a.m. and reconvened the meeting at 10:00 a.m.

BOLLIG

Resolution for Intention to be the Public Sponsor of a New Public Use General Aviation Municipal Airport

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

A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY, MN.

STATING THE COUNTY’S INTENTION TO BE THE

PUBLIC SPONSOR FOR A NEW PUBLIC USE GENERAL AVIATION

MUNICIPAL AIRPORT LOCATED ON THE NORTHWEST ANGLE, MN

RESOLUTION NO. 2020-11-05

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board, and the surrounding community, recognizes the unique geographic and historic position of the detached portion of the county, state of Minnesota and the United States known as the Northwest Angle, and

WHEREAS, the County Board understands the perilous situation surrounding the welfare of the citizens that are suffering under the current quarantine and subsequent closure of the international border, and

WHEREAS, the County Board recognizes that a general aviation, public use airport is a critical, yet missing, transportation link that is vital to strengthening and supporting the regional and local transportation system, and

WHEREAS, the County and the residents of the Northwest Angle community recognizes that the lack of airport facilities places human health and safety in peril, and exacerbates community and economic isolation, and 

WHEREAS, the County Board acknowledges that public safety, health, nutrition and economic needs, and future economic growth potential will be greatly improved by the construction of a general aviation airport at an appropriate location on the Northwest Angle, and

WHEREAS, the County Board approves and supports the efforts to study the feasibility of constructing a new airport facility at an appropriate location that will accommodate current and future community and aviation needs while minimizing impacts to natural and cultural resources, and,

WHEREAS, the County Board authorizes the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT) Aeronautics to undertake a primarily federally funded feasibility study and Master Planning Study primarily for an airport at or near the North West Angle of Minnesota, and

WHEREAS, the County Board acknowledges the FAA, as the Lead Federal Agency, will begin appropriate tribal consultation during airport planning with associated Native American governments including the Red Lake Nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods Board of Commissioners hereby declares its intent to be the Public Sponsor of an airport at the Northwest Angle, and urges support for the FAA and MnDOT Aeronautics to take the actions necessary to fulfill the spirit of Governor Walz’s Executive Order 19-24, to finalize site selection, and provide the grant funds necessary to accomplish this purpose.

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

HUMAN RESOURCES

Stipend Review

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve a $500 stipend for Sandy Peterson and Tami Maurer for the month of November 2020.  The stipend will end on November 30, 2020.

COUNTY SURVEYOR CONTRACT

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve entering into a professional services contract with Widseth, Smith, Nolting and Associates Inc. for County Surveyor Services, the time period commencing January 1, 2021 and terminating December 31, 2024 at a cost of $15,000 per year and for Chair Jon Waibel, Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson and County Attorney James Austad to sign the same.

COUNTY HIGHWAY/LANDFILL

Highway

Update

County Engineer AJ Pirkl provided a highway update.  

Main Street Design Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve a contract with Freeburg and Grund in the amount of $47,200 for design of Main Street in Baudette from the Brink Center to the Grand Theater.

Recognition of Years of Service Resolution – Mike Anderson

The following resolution was offered by Chairman Jon Waibel and moved for adoption:

RECOGNITION OF YEARS OF SERVICE 

MICHAEL ANDERSON

RESOLUTION NO. 2020-11-03

WHEREAS, Michael Anderson has served Lake of the Woods County as a Heavy Equipment Operator and Maintenance Supervisor since April 17, 1989;

WHEREAS, Michael will retire from Lake of the Woods County effective December 1, 2020 with thirty-one years of service;

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

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

Landfill Update

County Engineer AJ Pirkl provided a landfill update.

Ditch Authority

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and unanimously carried by roll call to close the regular meeting and open Ditch Authority.

The Ditch Authority discussed maintenance work for JD 22 and County Ditch 1, which will be reviewed with Roseau County.

Motion

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

County Ditch 1 Grant Acceptance from One Watershed One Plan    

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and unanimously carried by roll call to accept a grant from One Watershed One Plan for project development to address erosion on County Ditch 1. The cost for project development will be $31,500 with a county required match of $3,500 to be paid with state-aid funds.

Permission to Advertise RFP for County Ditch 1 Repair

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and unanimously carried by roll call to approve permission to advertise RFP for County Ditch 1 repair.

SHERIFF

Jail Update

Sheriff Gary Fish provided an update to the Board.  Fish received communication from the Department of Corrections that a two-year extension (through July 1, 2023) was granted on the sunset date for progress on the new jail, as long as benchmarks continue to be met.  Fish plans to work on a contract with Roseau County and will continue work on additional projects, including a camera system and records management system (RMS).  Commissioner Buck Nordlof agreed to meet with the Sheriff’s Department to review their RMS needs.  The Board would like a report prepared showing the cost savings from programs that would be replaced if the new RMS system was purchased. It was also requested that the RMS vendor provide a presentation to the Board.

RECESS

The Board took a brief recess at 11:36 a.m. and reconvened the meeting at 11:41 a.m.

EMERGENCY MANGEMENT

2020 Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan Adoption by Resolution

The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the following: 

RESOLUTION OF ADOPTION OF THE 

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY

ALL-HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN

Resolution No.  20-11-06

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has participated in the hazard mitigation planning process as established under the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000, and

WHEREAS, the Act establishes a framework for the development of a County Hazard Mitigation Plan; and

WHEREAS, the Act as part of the planning process requires public involvement and local coordination among neighboring local units of government and businesses; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Plan includes a risk assessment including past hazards, hazards that threaten the County, an estimate of structures at risk, a general description of land uses and development trends; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Plan includes a mitigation strategy including goals and objectives and an action plan identifying specific mitigation projects and costs; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Plan includes a maintenance or implementation process including plan updates, integration of the plan into other planning documents and how Lake of the Woods County will maintain public participation and coordination; and

WHEREAS, the Plan has been shared with the Minnesota Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and the Federal Emergency Management Agency for review and comment; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County All-Hazard Mitigation Plan will make the county and participating jurisdictions eligible to receive FEMA hazard mitigation assistance grants; and 

WHEREAS, this is a multi-jurisdictional Plan and cities that participated in the planning process may choose to also adopt the County Plan.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Lake of the Woods County supports the hazard mitigation planning effort and wishes to adopt the Lake of the Woods County All-Hazard Mitigation Plan.

Adoption of the Emergency Operations Plan for 2021

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the Lake of the Woods County Emergency Operations Plan for 2021.

Request for Credit Card Limit Increase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve a county credit card limit increase to $5,000 for Jill Hasbargen Olson, Lake of the Woods County Emergency Management Director. This is a temporary increase to be revisited after the pipeline protesting issues in neighboring counties cease or in June of 2021, whichever is sooner.

COVID-19 UPDATE

Media Campaign 

Jill Hasbargen Olson, Emergency Management Director, provided an update on a media campaign that was launched this week to encourage wearing masks to slow the spread of COVID-19. Some of the media materials will be available for local businesses to use as well.  Hasbargen Olson also mentioned the use of COVID-19 funds to sponsor a related coloring contest with the Northern Light Region.

Government Center

Jill Hasbargen Olson, Emergency Management Director, discussed what would initiate the Government Center to go to an appointment-only status.  It was agreed that this decision would be made when/if the Lake of the Woods School goes to distance learning.

County Employees

The Board encourages employees to consult with department heads about working remotely, after traveling out of the state.

Public Health/Hospital Update

Kay M. Schell, Public Health Manager at CHI LakeWood Health, provided an update. Positive cases of COVID-19 are rising in Lake of the Woods County.  The school is doing well, but because numbers are up in the county, if someone at the school has one of the less common symptoms they are asked to go home.  Surrounding counties have found that the distance learners have more positive cases compared to those who are attending school in the classroom.  ICU beds are very limited in the area.  CHI LakeWood Health long-term care residents and staff are tested for COVID-19 every week and all other staff are tested monthly.  COVID-19 testing is available at CHI LakeWood Health with doctor order.  There is also a no-cost, at-home COVID-19 saliva test that can be requested through the Minnesota Department of Health.  No timeline is available for the vaccine, but there is a prioritization for healthcare workers and long-term care.

RYAN ZEMEK, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY DIRECTOR

CARES Grants

Ryan Zemek, Economic Development Authority Director, provided an update on the additional applications and award amounts for the CARES Grants. It was the consensus of the Board for Lake of the Woods Economic Development Authority to proceed with the awards as presented.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the CARES Grants as presented and to appropriate and transfer $8,100 to the Economic Development Authority Fund.

RECESS

With no further business before the Board, Chairman Jon Waibel called the meeting to recess at 12:35 p.m. 

Attest: December 15, 2020

______________________________ _________________________________County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chairman Jon Waibel

Commissioner Proceedings

November 10, 2020

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, November 10, 2020 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room. 

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the agenda with the following additions: Human Resources/Permission to advertise, interview and hire a heavy equipment operator; County Highway/Approve wage for supervisor position, EDA/Resolution for Minnesota Investment Fund Program and Auditor-Treasurer/ Northwest Minnesota Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #8 Gambling Permit.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the official and summarized minutes of October 27, 2020.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrant’s $9,494.83 Commissioners Warrant’s $1,606.69, Commissioners Warrant’s $6,541.30.

AUDITOR/TREASURER

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $105,253.09; Road & Bridge $52,288.17; County Development $5,851.50; Joint Ditch $287.50; Solid Waste $24,373.82, EDA $1,656.92.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 11/10/2020 For Payment 11/13/2020

Vendor Name Amount

Bollig Inc 9,000.00

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 7,141.40

Cps Technology Solutions 8,742.97

Davidson Ready Mix & Construction Inc 7,545.00

DSC Communications 53,860.00

Freeberg & Grund, Inc 13,592.24

Government Management Group, Inc 3,600.00

Howard’s Oil Company 2,320.37

LOW Highway Dept 6,077.50

Mar-Kit Landfill 13,479.25

SeaChange Print Innovations 6,367.72

Titan Machinery – Roseau 13,268.74

Widseth Smith Nolting&Asst Inc 10,605.33

Woody’s Service 2,460.29

Wright Locksmith and Security Systems 7,560.00

63 Payments less than 2000   24,090.19

Final Total: 189,711.00

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: October 26, 2020 for $615,274.16, November 4, 2020 for $539,203.28.

Permission to Hire

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to hire Anna Sanchez for the position of Deputy Auditor/Treasurer- License Clerk/Board Administration at Grade 11, Step 1, $20.33 per hour, Points 253, effective 11/2/2020.

Wells Fargo Motor Vehicle Checking Account

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to authorize the following employees; County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Erik Tange, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Jaime Boretski-LaValla, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Connie Nesmith and Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Anna Sanchez, to sign for account number 5502 effective 11/2/2020.

Snowmobile Grant-In-Aid Program

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to authorize the FY 2021 Maintenance and Grooming Grants with the State of Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Snowmobile Grant-In-Aid Program for Big Traverse (LOW Drifters) and NW Angle Edgeriders in the amount of $174,422.35 and authorize Chair Jon Waibel and County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Gambling Permit Resolution

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call:

RESOLUTION APPROVING 

LAWFUL GAMBLING ACTIVITY APPLICATION 

TO CONDUCT OFF-SITE GAMBLING

RESOLUTION NO. 20-11-01

WHEREAS; the Northwest Minnesota Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #8 has submitted a Minnesota Lawful Gambling LG220 Application for Exempt Permit Gambling to be conducted at the following establishment, which is located in Lake of the Woods County: Sportsman’s Lodge 2/22/2021

 Sportsman’s Lodge 3244 Bur Oak Rd NW Baudette, MN 56623

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby approves said application for submission to the Minnesota Gambling Control Board.

HUMAN RESOURCES

Convene Training Renewal for 2021

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the Convene Training renewal at $999 for 2021.

Advertise, Interview and Hire Heavy Equipment Operator

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to advertise, interview and hire a heavy equipment operator at Grade 11, Step 1, Points 265, $20.33 per hour.

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #20-07CU by Ryan Kerr, Dennis King, and Sunset Lodge, LLC

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and presented a Conditional Use Permit for tracts of land in Government Lot 3, Section Two (2), Township One Hundred Sixty-seven (167) North, and Range Thirty-Three (33) West, Parcel IDs# 06.02.14.040, 06.02.14.030 and 06.02.14.020. Applicants are requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to allow the movement of more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of repairing shoreline damage. Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake. No comments were heard from the public. Stromlund reviewed the Findings of Fact of the Planning Commission and informed the Board that this application was approved by them as presented.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the following Findings of Fact/Conditional Use Permit for Ryan Kerr, Dennis King, and Sunset Lodge, LLC to allow the movement of more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of repairing shoreline damage, as presented.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Ryan Kerr; Dennis King; Sunset Lodge LLC__________ Date:  _Nov. 10, 2020

Location/Legal Description: The North ½ of the South ½ of the South ½ of Government Lot 3; the North 115’ of the South 165’ of Government Lot 3; The South ½ of the North ½ of the South ½ of Government Lot 3, Section Two (2), Township One Hundred Sixty-seven (167) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West – Parcel IDs# 06.02.14.030; 06.12.14.040; 06.02.14.020.

Project Proposal:  Place more than 10 cubic yards of material in the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of rip-rap. Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake.

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?  Shoreline repair and stabilization.

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not?  Saves shoreline.

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

Why or why not?  Will not/stops erosion.

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 (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Saves shoreline.

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 (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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:  None

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

November 10, 2020 _____________________________________

Date Jon Waibel

        Chair, County Board

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

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #20-08V by Kristine Hawkins

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and presented a Conditional Use Permit for Lot 2, Block 1, Harris Addition, Section Nineteen (19), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-one (31) West, Parcel ID# 19.63.01.020. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to allow movement of more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of repairing shoreline damage. Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake.  No comments were heard from the public. Stromlund reviewed the Findings of Fact of the Planning Commission and informed the Board that this application was approved by them as presented.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the following Findings of Fact/Conditional Use Permit for Kristine Hawkins to allow movement of more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of repairing shoreline damage, as presented.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  __Kristine Hawkins______________________ Date:  _November 10, 2020_

Location/Legal Description: _Lot 2 Block 1 Harris Addition, Section Nineteen (19), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-one (31) West – Parcel ID# 19.63.01.020_________________________

Project Proposal:  Place more than 10 cubic yards of material in the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of rip-rap. Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake.

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?  Shoreline stabilization.

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not?  Saves shoreline.

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Shoreline stabilization.

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 (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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:  None

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

November 10, 2020 _____________________________________

Date Jon Waibel

        Chair, County Board

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

COUNTY HIGHWAY/LANDFILL

Highway 

County Engineer AJ Pirkl provided a highway update.  

Landfill Update

County Engineer AJ Pirkl provided a landfill update.

Approve Wage for Supervisor Position

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried by roll call, with Commissioner Joe Grund abstaining, to approve offering the wage for the maintenance supervisor at Grade 15, Step 5, $27.74 per hour effective 12/02/2020, pending acceptance of the offer.

BAUDETTE DEPOT – DEPOT PRESERVATION ALLIANCE

Funding Request

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve $10,000 from CARES Act Funds for the Depot Preservation Alliance. The full request from the Depot will be revisited at the next Board Meeting.

RECESS

The Board took a brief recess at 9:45 a.m. and reconvened the meeting at 9:52 a.m.

RYAN ZEMEK, EDA DIRECTOR

Resolution for Minnesota Investment Fund Program

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF

Minnesota Investment Fund Program Application

Resolution No. 2020-11-02

Resolution regarding the approval of a Minnesota Investment Fund Application in connection with Lake of the Woods County and the Lake of the Woods County Economic Development Authority for the project entitled Lake of the Woods Distilling Company.

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota (the “County”), desires to assist Lake of the Woods Distilling Company which is proposing a Distillery in the City of Baudette; and,

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County understands that Lake of the Woods Distilling Company through and with the support of the Lake of the Woods Economic Development Authority wishes to apply or has applied to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development’s Minnesota Investment Fund Program for project financing; and,

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners held a County Board meeting on Tuesday, November 10, 2020 to consider this matter.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that after due consideration, the Board of Commissioners of Lake of the Woods County, Baudette, Minnesota, hereby express their approval of the Minnesota Investment Fund application from the Lake of the Woods County Economic Development Authority to assist with this project.

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

Update on CARES Applications

EDA Director, Ryan Zemek, provided an update to the Board regarding the request for funding from local businesses through the CARES Application, he has received some additional interest and will keep applications open through the 23^rd of November.

CORRESPONDENCE

The Board reviewed correspondence from the Williams Senior Citizens.

RECESS

With no further business before the Board, Chairman Jon Waibel called the meeting to recess at 10:10 a.m. 

Attest: November 24, 2020

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chairman Jon Waibel