December 12, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on December 12, 2023 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: County TV Translators, NorthWest Angle Forgiveable Loans, Part-time Deputy.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of November 28, 2023.

Opioid Bylaws

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Opioid Bylaws as presented.

Update Opioid Committee

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried to add a representative from Lake of the Woods School and Lakewood Health to the Opioid Committee. 

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $16,683.65; Commissioners Warrants $2,445.28; Commissioners Warrants $9,005.90.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $69,429.36; Road & Bridge $68,320.93; Joint Ditch $1,000.00; Solid Waste $31,834.19; EDA $2,823.15. 

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 12/12/2023 For Payment 12/15/2023

Vendor Name  Amount

Auto Value Baudette 2,879.43

Baudette/City Of 6,000.00

Braun Intertec Corporation 5,425.00

ByteSpeed, LLC 3,250.00

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 8,185.46

Counties Providing Technology 4,204.00

Farmers Union Oil company 2,344.92

Government Management Group, Inc 3,750.00

Guardian Fleet Safety 21,514.67

Hoffman, Philipp & Martell, PLLC 5,460.00

Howard’s Oil Company 2,051.32

Ironhide Equipment Inc 5,083.70

KGM Contractors Inc 28,520.80

KRIS Engineering Inc 7,559.04

Liberty Tire Recycling, LLC 5,155.70

Mar-Kit Landfill 12,024.50

Moren/Law Offices Of Patrick D 8,725.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc 2,444.00

65 Payments less than 2000 38,830.09

Final Total: 173,407.63

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: November 28, 2023 for $529,270.59; November 28,2023 for ($604.68); November 28, 2023 for ($903.36); November 28, 2023 for ($3,303.49); November 29, 2023 for $813,963.62; December 6, 2023 for $60,313.13.

Con-Con Fund Application Review

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the allocation request from Lake of the Woods Senior Citizens Council, Inc in the amount of $5,000.00 from the Con-Con funds, Lake of the Woods County development year 2024.

Memorandum of Understanding

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the Memorandum of Understanding between the State of Minnesota Ninth Judicial District, Borderland Treatment LKW Court, and Lake of the Woods County in the amount of $16,000.00 for the year 2024.

Donation from The Family of Roger Birkeland

The Lake of the Woods County Board thanks the Roger Birkeland family for their generous donation to veteran transportation services.

Resolution

Pursuant MN DONATION TO LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY

Stat. § 465.03

Resolution No. 23-12-01

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

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Commissioners pursuant MN Stat. § 465.03 (gifts to counties) hereby accepts a donation from the family of Roger Birkeland for Veterans Transportation in the amount of $110.00.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that in accordance with the terms set forth by the family of Roger Birkeland, the donors, the funds will be used to support veterans travel and transportation services.

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

Cigarette License-Midwest Dabbin Cabin

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen to approve the cigarette license for Midwest Dabbin Cabin. Voting for: Commissioners: Jon Waibel, Cody Hasbargen, Buck Nordlof, and Joe Grund. Voting against: Commissioner Ed Arnesen. Motion passed.

Permission to Advertise for Legal Publishing Bids

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof to approve the request to advertise for Legal Publishing Bids.

2024 Board Meeting Dates

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the 2024 County Board Meeting dates as follows:

2024 LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY BOARD MEETING DATES

January

Tuesday, January 2 (Organizational Meeting)             9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, January 9 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, January 23 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

February

Tuesday, February 13 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, February 27 8:15 a.m. Lake Of The Woods School (TBD)

March

Tuesday, March 12 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, March 26 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

April

Tuesday, April 9 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, April 23 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

May

Tuesday, May 14 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, May 28 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

June

Tuesday, June 11 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Monday, June 17 6:00 p.m. Board Of Equalization

Tuesday, June 18 10:00 a.m. NWA

Tuesday, June 25 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

July

Tuesday, July 9 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, July 23 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

August

Tuesday, August 20 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, August 27 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

September

Tuesday, September 10 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, September 24 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

October

Tuesday, October 8 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, October 22 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

November

Tuesday, November 12 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, November 26 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

December

Tuesday, December 17 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, December 17 6:00 p.m. TNT MEETING

Friday, December 27 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MAY BE ATTENDING THE FOLLOWING:

AMC JOINT LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE: February 21-22 in St. Paul

AMC LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE: March 27-March 29 in Nisswa

AMC DISTRICT 2 MEETING: UNKNOWN DATE May or June

AMC POLICY COMMITTEE: September 11-13 in Alexandria

AMC ANNUAL CONFERENCE: December 9-11 in Bloomington

LAKE OF THE WOODS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MEETINGS

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners will be attending these meetings on the 3^rd 

Thursday of the month at 6:00 p.m. in the Commissioners Room at the Government Center

Land Lease Review

The board reviewed a land lease between Lake of the Woods County and Brian Powers for approximately 13 acres of the tillable portion of Parcel #18.2342.000.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to terminate the land lease due to conditions not being met per the agreement and to no longer lease this portion of land moving forward.

Permission to Advertise for Bids

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise for bids for Translators for County TV.

Northwest Angle Forgivable Loan 

Resolution

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

COUNTY OF LAKE OF THE WOODS

RESOLUTION NO. 23-12-02

A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE ESTABLISHING A FORGIVABLE LOAN PROGRAM FOR REMOTE RECREATIONAL FACILITIES IN LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY AND TO CONFIRM ELIGIBILITY

WHEREAS, in May of 2023, the Minnesota Legislature approved HF Bill 2826 (“Amended Special Law”) amending Minn. Stat. Minnesota Session – Laws 2021, 1st Special Session, Chapter 10, Article 1, Section 2, Subd. 2(z) and Article 2, Section 24; and

WHEREAS, on May 23, 2023, the bill was presented to Governor Timothy Walz and was subsequently approved by Governor Walz on May 24, 2023, and filed with the Minnesota Secretary of State on May 24, 2023; and,

WHEREAS, said amended law provides for an extension of a Forgivable Loan Program for Remote Recreation Facilities in Lake of the Woods County, which facilities were negatively impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to the requirements of the Special Law, as amended, Lake of the Woods County has established a loan program to make forgivable loans to eligible remote recreational businesses that experienced a loss in revenue that is greater than 30% during the time period between March 15, 2021  and March 15, 2022, as compared with the pre-Covid-19 pandemic time period.

WHEREAS, the purpose of the Special Law as amended and the manner in which funds are to be administered are as follows:  To provide emergency recovery support to small businesses located in the Northwest Angle of Lake of the Woods County adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Lake of the Woods County Northwest Angle Forgivable Loan Program consists of up to $2.1 million appropriated by the State of Minnesota through grant contract SPAP-23-0094-P-FY24. Funds will help businesses recoup revenue lost by the border closure. The Forgivable Loan Program was made possible by legislation under Minn. Stat. Minnesota Session – Laws 2021, 1st Special Session, Chapter 10, Article 1, Section 2, Subd. 2(z) and Article 2, Section 24, which empowers the State to enter into a grant agreement with Lake of the Woods County. The grant amount shall be up to $2.1 million. Lake of the Woods County has authorized the Lake of the Woods Economic Development Authority (EDA) to administer the program. The EDA is receiving administrative assistance from Headwaters Regional Development Commission; and,

WHEREAS, the Amended Special law provides that loans shall be made before December 30, 2023; and,

WHEREAS, as of December 7, 2023, Lake of the Woods County commenced making applications available to eligible businesses; and, 

WHEREAS, at a regular Board meeting held on December 12, 2023, the Board of Commissioners of Lake of the Woods County reviewed and discussed the Amended Special Law; and, 

WHEREAS, following discussion and by unanimous vote of all of the members of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, the Forgivable Loan Program for businesses at the Northwest Angle was approved for the second year of the Covid-19 shutdown, pursuant to the language passed by the MN Legislature of 2023, and, 

WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners directed chief clerical officer, Lorene Hanson, Lake of the Woods County Auditor-Treasurer to file with the Secretary of State of Minnesota, a certification stating the essential facts necessary to validly approve the Amended Special Law including a copy of the Resolution.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS, LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY, MINNESOTA AS FOLLOWS:

1. By unanimous vote, the Board of Commissioners of Lake of the Woods County agrees to administer the forgivable loan program for the businesses of the Northwest Angle according to the provisions of the 2023 legislation. 

2. The chief clerical officer of Lake of the Woods County, Lorene Hanson, Lake of the Woods County Auditor-Treasurer shall forthwith file a certificate with the Minnesota Secretary of State stating the essential facts necessary to confirm County approval of said Amended Special Law. 

3. Eligibility for the forgivable loans shall be based on an eligible business’s pre-Covid-19 fiscal year gross receipts.

4. Lake of the Woods County shall make loans to eligible businesses no later than December 30, 2023. Loans shall be forgiven for eligible businesses if the business remains in operation for at least one year after the date of the loan. 

5. Lake of the Woods County shall provide a report to the legislative committees with jurisdiction over economic development policy and finance on the loans provided to eligible businesses under the special law as amended.

Adopted by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota this 12^th day of December 2023. 

Land & Water

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit Application #23-19CU by Leach and Associates, LLC

Tract in Government Lot 2 of Section Thirty-four (34), Township One Hundred Sixty-eight (168) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West- Parcel #03.34.24.040. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to move more than 10 cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods to repair shoreline damage that occurred during the 2022 high water event. Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following Conditional Use Permit/Findings of Fact #23-19CU by Leach and Associates, LLC to move more than 10 cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods to repair shoreline damage that occurred during the 2022 high water event with the following conditions:

1. CUP also covers any future maintenance.
2. Follow DNR guidelines for rock rip rap.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Leach and Associates, LLC Date:  December 12, 2023

Location/Legal Description:  Tract in Government Lot 2 of Section Thirty-four (34), Township One Hundred Sixty-eight (168) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West – Parcel ID# 03.34.24.040

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to move more than 10 cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods to repair shoreline damage that occurred during the 2022 high water event.

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 protection.

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? Shoreline protection.

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

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? Lakeshore.

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? Project is to prevent further erosion from occurring.

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 (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )
   Why or why not? Residential.

9)  Does the project proposal have a reasonable need to be in a shoreland location? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )
Why or why not? Lake of the Woods.

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? ___________________________________________________________________________

The answers to the questions above, together with the facts supporting the answers and those other facts that exist in the record, are hereby certified to be the Findings of the County Board of Commissioners.

The specific reasons for denial or conditions of approval are as follows: 

1. The Conditional Use Permit covers any future maintenance.
2. The applicant is to follow the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources installation guidelines for rock rip rap.

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

December 12, 2023 _____________________________________

Date Ed Arnesen

        Chair, County Board

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

Consideration of Interim Use Permit Application #23-011U by Tracy and Sandra Pogue

Lot 1, Block 3, River Oaks Plat, Section One (1), Township One-hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West- Parcel ID#25.52.03.010. Applicant is requesting an Interim Use Permit as required by Section 1106 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Development Zoning District (R1). Johnson Creek is a tributary river segment.

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following Interim Use Permit/Findings of Fact #23-01IU by Tracy and Sandra Pogue to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Development Zoning District (R1) with the following conditions:

1. The interim use permit terminates five (5) years from the date of approval or upon sale or transfer of the property, whichever occurs first.
2. The maximum occupancy is limited to eight (8) individuals as per the submitted application.
3. The established quiet hours are from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am as per the submitted application.
4. No on-street parking is allowed.
5. If applicable, the applicant must meet the Minnesota Department of Health requirements.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Short-Term Vacation Rental Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Tracy and Sandra Pogue Date:  December 12, 2023

Location/Legal Description:  Lot 1, Block 3, River Oaks Plat

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting an Interim Use Permit, as required by Section 1106 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance, to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Zoning District (R1).

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

Explain?  The project proposal is located within the Growth Corridor.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

If yes, explain?  Applicant has met the criteria as per the submitted application.

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

Explain?  This type of use is allowed in a Residential (R1) Zoning District.

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

Explain?  Property has access to Oak Harbor Drive Northwest.

5. Has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the traffic and parking are to be addressed? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  Applicant indicates parking on site as per the submitted application. No on street parking is to be allowed.

6. Has the applicant provided a map adequately depicting locations of property lines, well and septic system locations, accessory structures, parking areas, and shore recreational facilities?

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  As per the submitted application.

7. Does the water test meet the Minnesota Department of Health drinking water standards? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  The water test results are part of the submitted application.

8. Has the applicant identified the maximum number of occupants? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  The maximum number of occupants is limited to eight (8) people as per the submitted application.

9. Is the current SSTS compliant by evidence of a Certificate of Compliance and is the SSTS adequate to accommodate the identified maximum occupancy? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  The new system has received a COC and is sized accordingly for the maximum occupancy.

10. Has the applicant established quiet hours? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  As per the submitted application, the quiet hours are 10:00 pm to 6:00 am.

11. Has the applicant provided a floor plan which includes the number of bedrooms and all other sleeping accommodations? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  See submitted application.

12. Has the applicant provided an evacuation plan/fire safety protocol and have identified the locations of smoke and Carbon Monoxide alarms and fire extinguishers? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  See submitted application.

13. Has the applicant identified a local person and their contact information? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  See submitted application.

14. 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)

Explain?  No signage is proposed as per the submitted application.

15. Is fencing and/or screening needed to buffer the project proposal from adjacent properties?

YES (  )  NO (X)  N/A (  )

Explain?  No fencing and/or screen is warranted.

The answers to the questions above, together with the facts supporting the answers and those other facts that exist in the record, are hereby certified to be the Findings of the County Board of Commissioners.

The specific reasons for denial or conditions of approval are as follows: 

1. The interim use permit terminates five (5) years from the date of approval or upon sale or transfer of the property, whichever occurs first.
2. The maximum occupancy is limited to eight (8) individuals as per the submitted application.
3. The established quiet hours are from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am as per the submitted application.
4. No on-street parking is allowed.
5. If applicable, the applicant must meet the Minnesota Department of Health requirements.

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

December 12, 2023 _____________________________________

Date Ed Arnesen

        Chair, County Board

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

Mowing of County Property

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund discussed property located in Section 21, Township 159, Range 30 (Rapid River Township). No action was taken at this time.

Buffer Law Compliance

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund informed the board that an Administrative Penalty Order will be sent out to several landowners that are out of compliance.

Human Resources

Permission to Hire Appraiser

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the request to hire Kristina Roth as an Appraiser in the Assessor’s Office at Grade 12, Step 1, $23.47 per hour at 280 points effective December 18, 2023.

Law Enforcement Labor Services Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the 2024 Law Enforcement Labor Services Contract effective January 1, 2024.

Part-time Deputy Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to increase hours for on call Part-time Deputy Jon Foss to Permanent Part-time Deputy Sheriff at 30 hours per week effective January 1, 2024.

Ditch Authority

Review 2024 Ditch Assessments

Motion

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

The Ditch Authority reviewed the proposed 2024 Ditch assessments. 

Motion

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

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various Highway and Solid Waste projects.

Final Payment SAP 039-608-026

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the final payment of SAP 039-608-026 for KGM Contractors, Inc. of Angora, MN in the total amount of $4,466,680.39 and hereby authorize final payment of $447,802.27.

County Road Access Discussion

Yulia Bogdanova and Alex Butler came to the board to discuss issues their family is having accessing a road to their property. They would like to come to a peaceful solution with their neighbors. It was the consensus of the board to move forward in prescribing the road access, inform the other parties, and bring back to the board when everything is ready for final motions.

Recess

The Meeting was called to recess at 11:05 a.m. and reconvened at 6:00 p.m.

Truth In Taxation Meeting

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the Public Hearing for Truth In Taxation meeting at 6:00p.m. Members present, Commissioners Joe Grund, Buck Nordlof, Jon Waibel, and Ed Arnesen. Others present, County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Gloriann Fischer, Jim Frohreich, Steve Plovie, Jon Starren, and Julie Starren.

County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson reviewed the 2024 Proposed County Levy at the Truth In Taxation Public Hearing. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the public hearing and open the regular meeting at 6:45 p.m.

Resolution

Resolution Adopting

Certified 2024 Budget and Tax Levy

Resolution   2023-12-03

The following Resolution was proposed and moved for adoption by Commissioner Joe Grund:

WHEREAS, the Proposed County Budget for the year 2024 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 2024:

Revenue Fund $ 2,116,712

Road & Bridge Fund $    500,000

Social Services Fund         $    603,935

Economic Development Authority Fund   $      60,000

2024 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy        $ 3,280,647

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the following amounts be levied against the unorganized townships of Lake of the Woods County for 2024:

Twp Road & Bridge $   476,470*

Twp Fire – Baudette $     26,750

Twp Fire – Williams $     17,101

Twp Fire – NW Angle $       6,500

Total $   526,821

2024

* $476,470 for Township Road & Bridge, includes $5,000 Blue Blades and $12,765 Admin of Township Roads (458,705+5,000+12,765=476,470)  

A public meeting to discuss the 2024 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy was held on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Lake of the Woods County Commissioners’ Room. 

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

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 6:50p.m.

Attest: December 28, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair Ed Arnesen