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MINUTES & AGENDAS

January, 2009

Commissioner Proceedings

Organizational Meeting

January 6, 2009

The Lake of the Woods County Board met on Tuesday, January 6, 2009, in the Commissioners’ Room in the Lake of the Woods County Government Center for their 2009 Organizational Meeting.

Call to Order

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance with the following members present:  Commissioners Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Hanson and Moorman. Also present were: County Auditor, John W Hoscheid; Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen, John Oren, Penny Mio Hirst and Jeff Hovde.

Swearing in Ceremony

County Recorder, Sue Ney swore in Commissioners:  Ed Arnesen, Patty Beckel and Tom Hanson for their term beginning January 5, 2009.

Election of Chair and Vice Chair

County Auditor John W. Hoscheid called for nominations for Chair of Lake of the Woods County Board for the year 2009.  Commissioner Arnesen nominated Commissioner Patty Beckel with Commissioner Moorman seconding the nomination.  County Auditor called for nominations two more times.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the nominations for Chair. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Auditor closed the nominations for Chair and called for a roll call for Commissioner Patty Beckel for Chair.  Roll call carried as follows: All in favor: Commissioners Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Hanson and Moorman.  Against:  None.  Commissioner Patty Beckel assumed the position of Chair of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners for 2009.

Chair Patty Beckel called for nominations for the position of Vice-Chair for the year 2009.  Commissioner Todd Beckel nominated Commissioner Arnesen for Vice-Chair for Lake of the Woods County Board with Commissioner Moorman seconding the nomination. Chair Patty Beckel called for nominations two more times. 

There were no other nominations received or motion to close nominations, therefore, nominations ceased. Chair Patty Beckel closed the nominations for Vice-Chair and called for roll call for Commissioner Arnesen for Vice-Chair.  Roll call carried as follows:  All in favor:  Commissioners Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Hanson and Moorman.   Against:  None.  Commissioner Arnesen assumed the position of Vice-Chair of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioner for 2009.

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the agenda with the addition of:   Setting a Date for a Meeting of the Whole and a Strategic Plan for 2009.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Consent Agenda

Motion by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Dale Boretski to Plymouth on January 25–30, 2009 for Assessment Laws and Procedures Course.   The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the commissioner minutes of December 31, 2008, with changes.  Seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

2009 Committee Appointments

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the 2009 Committee Appointments with a few committee appointments remaining to be filled:

Airport Commission:  Commissioners Patty Beckel and Hanson;

AMC Ag Task Force: Commissioner Moorman; Alternates: Commissioners Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel and Hanson;  

AMC Environmental and Natural Resources: Commissioner Todd Beckel; Alternates: Commissioners Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Hanson and Moorman;  

AMC Future:  Commissioner Todd Beckel;

AMC General Government: Commissioner Patty Beckel; Alternates: John W. Hoscheid and Commissioners Arnesen, Todd Beckel, Hanson and Moorman;  

AMC Human Service: Commissioner Hanson and Nancy Wendler; Alternates: Commissioners Arnesen, Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel and Moorman;

AMC Transportation and Area Transportation Advisory Board: Commissioner Moorman         and Bruce Hasbargen; Alternates: Commissioners Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel and Hanson;

Arrowhead Library System:   Sandy Johnson (7-1-08 to 06-30-11 appointed 2008)

Board of Adjustment: District 1 Buck Webb, District 2-Reed McFarlane, District 3-Gerald Levasseur, District 4 Tom Mio, District 5-Jamie McEnelly;

Border Coalition/ Passports: Commissioner Arnesen, Commissioner Patty Beckel, Sue Ney and Holly House;

Board of Water and Soil Resource (BWSR): Commissioner Todd Beckel;

Building and Safety Committee:  Commissioner Arnesen, Commissioner Todd Beckel, Matt Mickelson, Bruce Hasbargen, Brent Birkeland, John W. Hoscheid and Nancy Wendler;

Children’s Justice Initiative Committee and Lake of the Woods County Children and Families Collaborative Committee:   Commissioner Todd Beckel (combined these two in January 2009;

Community Education Advisory Board: Commissioner Moorman; Alternate: Commissioner Patty Beckel. 

Personnel Committee (combined Compensation Plan and Personnel in Jan 2008): Commissioner Hanson, Commissioner Patty Beckel, Human Resources Director Wade Johannesen, Sue Ney, Bruce Hasbargen, Amy Ballard and Jim Walton;   

Comprehensive Land Use Planning Board: Commissioner Arnesen, Commissioner Patty Beckel, Sue Ney, Josh Stromlund, John W. Hoscheid;  

Continuity of Operation Plan (COOP): Holly House and All Commissioners;

Cormorant Committee: Commissioner Arnesen, Commissioner Todd Beckel, Mike Trueman, Paul Arnesen; Alternate:  Commissioner Patty Beckel;

County Extension Committee: Commissioner Arnesen, Commissioner Patty Beckel, John W. Hoscheid, Karen Hanson and Leon Grove. Additional members: Rita Krause, Brenda Nelson, Aprille Levasseur, Erin Olson and Shelly Lien;  

County TV:  Commissioner Arnesen, Commissioner Hanson, Lee Hervey, John W. Hoscheid, Brent Birkeland and Holly House;

Department Head Liaison: Commissioners Patty Beckel and Hanson;

Department Liaisons:  Assessor – Arnesen; Land and Water Planning Office – Moorman; Attorney – Moorman; MIS – Hanson; Sheriff – Todd Beckel; Social Services – Todd Beckel;  Recorder – Arnesen; Highway – Hanson; Treasurer – Patty Beckel; Auditor – Patty Beckel; Emergency Management – Moorman; H/R – Arnesen and Veterans Service Officer – Hanson;               

Economic Development Committee and Biomass Committee:  Commissioners Patty Beckel and Moorman;           

Enhanced 911 Committee: Commissioner Todd Beckel, Commissioner Hanson, Brent Birkeland, Dallas Block, Holly House and other local appointees;

GIZIIBII-RC&D: Commissioner Patty Beckel, member at large George Swentik and John Sonstegard; Alternates for Sonstegard– SWCD staff member;

Governor Council on Mental Health Committee:  Commissioner Moorman;

Grievance Committee: Commissioner Arnesen, Dale Boretski, Josh Stromlund and Angie Eason; Alternate:  Commissioner Moorman;

Headwaters Regional Development Commission: Commissioners Hanson and Moorman;

Highway 11 Task Force/Transportation Alliance: Commissioner Moorman, Commissioner Hanson and Bruce Hasbargen;

Information Systems/Technology Committee:  Commissioner Hanson, Commissioner Patty Beckel, Brent Birkeland, Josh Stromlund, Bruce Hasbargen and John W. Hoscheid;

Insurance Committee: Commissioner Todd Beckel, Commissioner Patty Beckel, John W. Hoscheid, Nancy Wendler, Lorene Hanson, Brent Birkeland, Jim Walton and Wade Johannesen;

Joint Powers Natural Resources Board:  Commissioner Todd Beckel, Commissioner Moorman and Wayne Bendickson;

Labor/Management Committee: Commissioner Todd Beckel, Commissioner Arnesen, Wade Johannesen; Alternate: Commissioner Patty Beckel;

Lake of the Woods Affordable Housing/Loan Committee: Commissioner Arnesen, Bruce Hasbargen, Wayne Bendickson and John W. Hoscheid; Alternate:  Commissioner Patty Beckel;

Lake of the Woods Trail Management Team:  Commissioners Todd Beckel and Moorman;

Law Library:  Commissioner Todd Beckel, Michelle Moren and Brent Birkeland;

Lutheran Social Service Board: Commissioner Moorman and Nancy Wendler; Alternate: Commissioner Patty Beckel;

Minnesota Counties Computer Co-op: Brent Birkeland, Delegate #1 – John W. Hoscheid, Delegate #2 – Dale Boretski;

Minnesota Counties Insurance Trust: Commissioner Patty Beckel; Alternate: Commissioner Todd Beckel;

Minnesota Rural Counties Caucus: Commissioner Todd Beckel; Alternates: Commissioners Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Hanson and Moorman;    

Motor Pool Committee: Commissioner Patty Beckel, John W. Hoscheid, Nancy Wendler, Wayne Bendickson, Josh Stromlund and Bruce Hasbargen;  Alternate:  Commissioner Hanson;

North Country Board of Health:  Commissioner Moorman (term expires 12/31/09) and Jan Olson (term expires 12/31/09) these are three-year terms (appointed in 2007);

North Country Community Health Services Advisory Committee:  Commissioner Moorman (term expires 12/31/08- appointed 2007) and Jan Olson (term expires 12/31/09- appointed 2008).  These are two-year terms;

Northern Counties Land Use Coordinating Board: Commissioner Todd Beckel and Josh Stromlund; Alternate:  Commissioner Arnesen;

Northwest Board of Aging/Area Agency: Commissioner Moorman, Nancy Wendler and John Oren; Alternate: Commissioner Patty Beckel;

Northwest Community Action:  Commissioner Arnesen; Alternate: Commissioner Moorman;

Northwest Minnesota Juvenile Center Board:  Commissioner Patty Beckel (term expires 12/31/09 (re-appointed in 2007 to replace Todd Beckel’s term).  This is a four-year term;

Nuisance Ordinance Committee: Commissioner Patty Beckel, Commissioner Arnesen, Michelle Moren, Dallas Block, Michelle Brown, Rick Rone, Nancy Jewell and Josh Stromlund;

Nursing Service Advisory Board: Commissioner Hanson, Leah Stephani; Alternate:  Nancy Wendler;

Park Commission: Commissioner Hanson, Commissioner Patty Beckel, Bruce Hasbargen; Alternate: Commissioner Moorman;

Peat Land: Commissioner Todd Beckel;

Rainy Rapid River Board: Commissioner Moorman, Commissioner Hanson, Josh Stromlund and Steve Sindelir;

Red River Valley Development Association:  Commissioner Moorman and Ken Horntvedt;

Regional Radio Board: Commissioner Todd Beckel; Alternate: Commissioner Hanson;

Roseau County Board on Aging:  Commissioner Arnesen

Solid Waste Committee/Household Waste:   Commissioner Patty Beckel (as the (NWMNHHW representative for the Joint Powers Agreement), Commissioner Arnesen, Bruce Hasbargen, Wayne Bendickson, Tina Rennemo and Mark Hall;

Subdivision Controls Committee: Commissioner Patty Beckel, Josh Stromlund, Wayne Bendickson, Sue Ney, Brent Birkeland and Commissioner of the District involved;

Township Road and Trails: Commissioner Arnesen, Commissioner Todd Beckel, Bruce Hasbargen, Josh Stromlund, Brent Birkeland, Dan Crompton and Wayne Bendickson;  

Tribal Lands:  Commissioners Arnesen and Todd Beckel;

Vets Service: Commissioner Hanson, Commissioner Moorman, Legion Commander or Delegate, VFW Commander or Delegate and Rick Rone;

SWCD District Committee: Commissioner Todd Beckel, Commissioner Hanson and Josh Stromlund;

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

2009 County Board Meeting Dates

Motion by Commissioner Hanson to approve the 2009 County Board meeting dates as follows:

County Board meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 9:00 a.m. in the Commissioners’ Room of the County Government Center in Baudette, Minnesota unless otherwise noted below:

Below are the dates and times of the regular scheduled County Board meetings for 2009:

Date                    Time                              Date                    Time

January 13, 2009         9:00 a.m.                                 July 14, 2009               9:00 a.m.

January 27, 2009         9:00 a.m.                                 July 28, 2009               9:00 a.m.

February 10, 2009       9:00 a.m.                                 August 11, 2009         9:00 a.m.

February 24, 2009       9:00 a.m.                                 August 18, 2009        10:00 a.m.

(Lake of the Woods School)                                         (NWA School)

                                                                                    August 25, 2009         9:00 a.m.

March 10, 2009           9:00 a.m.                                 September 08, 2009    9:00 a.m.

March 24, 2009           9:00 a.m.                                 September 22, 2009    9:00 a.m.

April   7, 2009             8:00 a.m.                                 October 13, 2009        9:00 a.m.

April 28, 2009             9:00 a.m.                                 October 27, 2009        9:00 a.m.

May 12, 2009              9:00 a.m.                                 November 10, 2009    9:00 a.m.

May 26, 2009              9:00 a.m.                                 November 24, 2009    9:00 a.m.

June 09, 2009              9:00 a.m.                                 December 10, 2009     1:00 p.m.

June 23, 2009              9:00 a.m.                                 December 22, 2009     9:00 a.m.

                                                                                    December 31, 2009     8:00 a.m.

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

Elected Officials – Minimum Salaries

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

Resolution For

Establishing Minimum Salaries for Elective Offices

Resolution No. 2009-01-01

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

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the following statutory minimum annual salaries are hereby established for county elective offices for the term beginning in January of the year 2009:

                                    County Attorney:        $6,000

                                    County Auditor:         $6,000

                                    County Recorder:       $6,000

                                    County Sheriff:           $6,000

                                    County Treasurer:       $6,000

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

The meeting was called to recess at 10:15 a.m. and reconvened at 10:23 a.m.

County Treasurer-Official Depositories

County Treasurer, Mark Hall met with the board requesting approval for the designation of official depositories of county funds for the year 2009.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to designate the following institutions as Official Depositories of county funds for the year 2009:

  1. Wells Fargo, Baudette Branch
  2. RiverWood Bank- Baudette Branch
  3. Border State Bank, Baudette Branch
  4. MAGIC Fund

It was further moved to designate Wells Fargo Minneapolis, as the official safekeeping Institution for Lake of the Woods County.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Lake of the Woods County Board Protocol

The County Board reviewed meeting protocol for the Lake of the Woods County Board for 2009.

Legal Newspaper – Bid Opening After lunch

Chair Patty Beckel called for the bid opening at 11:00 a.m. as advertised for the Official Legal Newspaper for the year 2009.

County Auditor John W Hoscheid opened the sealed bids for the official legal newspaper.  The County Auditor asked the board for time to review the bids and bring the results back to the board after lunch.  

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to designate the Northern Light as the Official Legal Newspaper of the County for 2009 and to award the first publication of the annual financial statement, the first and second publications of the delinquent tax list and all other legal publishing to the Northern Light.  It was further moved to award the bid for the second publication of the annual financial statement to the Baudette Region. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

County Auditor – 2008 Year End Audit Acceptance

County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board requesting approval of Hoffman, Dale, & Swenson, PLLC understanding of services that will be provided for the 2008 year-end audit.

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the Understanding of Service Agreement that will be provided by Hoffman, Dale, & Swenson, PLLC for 2008 year-end audit and authorize the Chair and County Auditor to sign the same.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

2009 Strategic Plan

The board discussed Strategic Plans for 2009, due to state funding shortfalls.

The meeting was called to recess at 11:45 a.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m.

The board continued their discussion on a strategic plan, which will be discussed at the next Department Head meeting in the Commissioners’ Room on January 12, 2009, at 8:30 a.m.  The agenda will include examining options to streamline government operations.  The board also set a meeting of the Whole for January 20, 2009, in the Commissioners’ Room at 8:00 a.m., for all Department Heads to attend and bring their ideas and suggestions in writing.

Old/New Business

The board discussed the following old and new business: 

Old:

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

New:

There were no new updates at this meeting.

Committee Meeting Reports:

There were no committee meeting reports at this meeting.

Correspondence:

Correspondence was read and discussed:

  1. Minnesota Department of Transportation in reference to Scenic Byway and supporting resolution.  No action was taken at this time and this will be placed on the next board agenda.
  2. Williams Arena and Williams Library acknowledging and thanking the Lake of the Woods County Board for the 2008 donation.

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chair Patty Beckel called the meeting to recess at 1:22 p.m.

Attest:                                                             Approved:       January 13, 2009

____________________________                _______________________________

John W. Hoscheid, County Auditor               Patty Beckel, Chair

Commissioner Proceedings

January 13, 2009

The Lake of the Woods County Board met in regular session on Tuesday, January 13, 2009, in the Commissioners’ Room in the Lake of the Woods County Government Center.

Call to Order

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

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda with additions:  2009 meeting dates, Wetland issues, Peat Land committee appointment, SWCD Legislative appointment, GIZIBBII appointment and Marina Drive Estates extension.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Holly House to Mahnomen for HSEM Region 3 quarterly meeting on January 21-22 (sharing expenses with Roseau County) and to Brooklyn Park for Annual Governor’s Conference and Public Information Officer’s class on March 2-5.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

2009 COMMITTEE APPOINTMENT/COMPLETION OF APPOINTMENTS

County Extension Committee- Shelly Lien

Peat Land Committee- Commissioner Todd Beckel

Personnel Committee- Jim Walton

Township Road and Trails- Wayne Bendickson

Approval of Minutes

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the commissioner minutes of January 6, 2009.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler

Claims

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler met with the board requesting approval of claims.  Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the following claims against the county:

Commissioners’ Warrants       $ 56,673.53

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

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid

Claims

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

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

                                                Revenue                             $195,281.07

                                                Road & Bridge                  $ 96,197.98         

                                                County Devel.                   $      200.00          

                                                Solid Waste                       $ 32,396.70

                                                NWCDPS                         $    1,819.00

                                                                                          $326,434.75

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

WARRANTS APPROVED ON  1/13/2009 FOR PAYMENT  1/16/2009

        AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME                                                   AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME

        4422.20 AFFILIATED COMPUTER SERVICES                     5304.47 CENEX CO-OP SERVICES, INC.

        3260.82 H & L MESABI                                                           610.50 HOLTE IMPLEMENT, INC

        3171.64 HOWARD’S OIL COMPANY                                      633.79 LOW FOODS

      89451.00 LOW SOIL & WATER CONS. DIST.                        8077.95 MAR-KIT LANDFILL

          900.00 MN ASSN COUNTY OFFICES-MACO                       375.00 MN ASSN OF ASSESSING OFFICERS

        3808.00 MN ASSN OF COUNTIES                                       35892.30 MN COUNTIES COMPUTER CO-OP

        1162.25 MN COUNTIES INFORMATION SYSTEM          144243.00 MN COUNTIES INSURANCE TRUST

          350.00 MN MUNICIPAL UTILITIES ASSOC                         800.00 MN STATE SHERIFF’S ASS’N

        1490.00 MN TRANSPORTATION ALLIANCE INC                 792.62 KENNETH MOORMAN

          400.00 NATIONAL ASSN-COUNTIES                                 1672.97 NAYLOR’S HEATING & REFRIGERATI

        4058.90 NORTH AMERICAN SALT CO                                  442.30 THE NORTHERN LIGHT

        4602.28 NW MN HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS                      1026.86 R & Q TRUCKING, INC

          441.34 ROSEAU COUNTY COOPERATIVE ASSN              2640.00 VOYAGEURS COMTRONICS, INC

          747.25 WEST GROUP                                                           2578.99 WOODY’S SERVICE

          450.00 13 BELOW

24 PAYMENTS LESS THAN  $300       2,628.32

FINAL TOTAL    $326,434.75

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

                                                December 31, 2008                 $   20,159.64

                                                January 6, 2009                       $   67,827.44

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

The board reviewed the 2009 AMC annual dues and noticed a 3% increase from last year. The consensus of the board was to send a letter stating that they looked closely at all the counties renewal contracts for 2009 so there would be no increases or very minimal increase from the previous year due to the State deficit.

SCENIC BYWAY

Chair Patty Beckel discussed the letter from Mark Anderson, Scenic Byways Coordinator for the Minnesota Department of Transportation stating that the resolution that Lake of the Woods County Commissioners passed in October, 2008 did not pass the federal requirements contained in the Highway Beautification Act.  The board discussed various options and decided to go with the GAP at Graceton as Mark Anderson recommended.

Resolution

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

Resolution No. 09-01-01

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

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

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

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

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

  1. In Roosevelt, ¾ mile west of Roseau County  Road 141 to ½ mile east of Roseau County Road 141.
  2. In Williams, from Lake of the Woods County Road 61 to 1.6 miles west of Lake of the Woods  County Road 61.
  3. In Baudette, 1 mile west of TH172 to ½ miles east of TH72.
  4. In Graceton, 3000 feet west of County Road 4 south intersection to 300 feet east of the intersection.

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

Motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the vote carried as follows:  Voting for: Commissioner Hanson, Patty Beckel and Moorman. Voting against: Commissioners Todd Beckel and Arnesen.

The meeting was called to recess at 9:53 a.m. and reconvened at 10:00 a.m. as follows:

BERNARD LAND ACQUISITION, MIKE CARROLL NW REGIONAL DIRECTOR, MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Mike Carroll, NW Regional Director with the Department of Natural Resources met with the board to discuss the State’s proposed land acquisition with Dean Bernard’s property.  Mike informed the board that the DNR does not have the funding at this time, but they should have it within a year or so. Mike stated that they are still looking for land to exchange with the county in accordance with the “No Net Loss” policy. Mike presented a resolution of support for the land acquisition so they can move forward with the appraisal and other requirements before the sale can be final.

Resolution

Review of Proposed State Land Acquisition

Resolution No. 09-01-02

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

WHEREAS, In accordance with Minnesota Statutes 97A.145, Subd. 2, the Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources on December 31, 2008 provided the county board with a description of lands to be acquired by the State of Minnesota for water, forestry, wildlife, and natural plant community conservation purposes.

WHEREAS, Lands to be acquired are described as follows:  East ½ of Section 1 and the East ½ of Section 12, Township 161North, Range 33West.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County Commissioners on January 13, 2009 approves the State’s proposed acquisition of the attached described property.

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

Mike Carroll discussed the MN Rule 84A versus MN Statute 103E, benefits/payments on county ditches.  Mike stated that he would like Lake of the Woods County to join in a pilot project using Ditch 1 to evaluate MN Rule 84A versus MN Statute 103E. The board will discuss this with other Department Heads at the Committee of the Whole meeting, which is scheduled for January 20, 2009.

NO NET LOSS RESOLUTION

The board discussed the current “NO NET LOSS” resolution.  This was placed on the January 27, 2009 board agenda.

2009 COUNTY BOARD PROTOCOL

Chair Patty Beckel discussed county board meeting protocol with the board.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to accept the following 2009 County Board Protocol as follows:

Lake of the Woods County Board Meeting Protocol for 2009

The Board of Commissioners

Lake of the Woods County is divided into five geographical regions called districts.   Each district elects one commissioner to serve on the five member CountyBoard.  Board members are elected to serve four year terms.  The election of Board members takes place on the first Tuesday in November of even numbered years.  To insure Board continuity, commissioner elections are offset with three seats open during one election and two open the following election. New Board members take office on the first Monday in January in the year following their election.

Board Meetings

The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month (unless otherwise noted).  The Board also meets on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in January as set by MN Statute. The Board may call Special Meetings to deal with specific topics or Emergency Meetings to handle matters that cannot wait until the next regularly scheduled Board meetings.  In these instances, the public will be informed through the local news media.  The Board may also call Committee of the Whole meetings to study a specific topic or to attend a meeting or training as a group.  No action may take place during a Committee of the Whole meeting.

Meeting Location

Regular meetings will be held in the Commissioners’ Room in Lake of the Woods Government Center, 206 8th Ave SE, Baudette, MN.

Meeting Time

The Board is scheduled to meet from 9:00 a.m.  Items not completed by the end of the scheduled meeting time will be deferred to the next meeting. 

Meeting Management

A Chair and Vice-Chair of the Board are elected at the first official Board meeting of the calendar year.  The Chair shares meeting rights with all other Board members and is a regular voting member of the Board. In this capacity, the Chair is eligible to make and second motions and is allowed equal time to speak on a motion or on a discussion item.  Additionally, the Chair has the responsibility of providing leadership in convening and managing all official meetings of the Board.  In this capacity, the Chair facilitates discussion and action on Board agenda items, insures that the meeting protocol is adhered to, and that data practices and open meeting law are not violated.  In the absence of the Chair, the Vice-Chair assumes meeting management responsibility.

Board Actions

The Board of Commissioners must have a quorum, or three members present, before it can take official action. All Board action must be approved by a majority of three or more of the members present.

The Board has final control over County matters subject only to the limitations imposed by state law.

No action will be taken on any item not part of the agenda on the same day it is presented unless action is considered necessary by a majority of the Board.

Speaking Protocol for Commissioners

Orderly meeting management requires a respectful process that insures all commissioners have an equal opportunity to speak on each issue that comes before the Board. The Board Chair is responsible for establishing and maintaining orderly meeting management. There are a number of techniques or protocols to facilitate this. The Board Chair has the discretion to select the protocol used during their term as Chair.

Agenda

The County Auditor or designee serves as the Recording Clerk to the Board and oversees preparation of the agenda for consideration. Meetings of the Board of Commissioners follow a standard agenda. The Board Agenda is finalized on Thursday prior to the scheduled Tuesday meeting.  

To have an item placed on the Board Agenda for discussion or action, contact the County Auditor’s office.  To be considered for the agenda the request must be submitted to the Auditor’s office by noon on the Thursday prior to the next Board meeting.  If Board action is requested, a copy of the resolution along with supporting materials should be included with the request.  This may be done electronically through the Request for Board Action form.  To obtain this form contact the County Auditor or view on the County’s Web-site (www.co.lake-of-the-woods.mn.us).

A Board packet including all supporting materials is provided to the Commissioners no later than Friday prior to the following Tuesday’s Board meeting to allow Board members time to review and study the matters that will come before them for decision.   Statute requires that the agenda be finalized and public notice be given three business days in advance of the meeting date.  For that reason, the agenda must be finalized no later than the Thursday prior to the following Tuesday’s meeting.          

Items not placed on the agenda before it is finalized may be considered at the meeting upon agreement of the members of the Board present.   Such items may be added as addenda and approved as a revision to the Agenda or with a Suspension of Rules.

All items on the agenda including appointments and regular agenda items are scheduled at a specific time and every effort will be made to maintain the approved meeting schedule.

Items on the Consent Agenda are considered routine by the Board and may be approved and enacted through one motion.  Any item on the consent agenda may be removed by any of the Commissioners for separate consideration. All travel by county employees is placed on the consent agenda fourteen (14) days/weeks prior to meetings.

Appointments with the Board will be allowed a maximum of 30 minutes. Exceptions will be made for specific matters that cannot be handled in that amount of time – but must be scheduled ahead of time.

Committee Reports

Commissioner reports on the committee meetings and other activities they have participated in between official Board meetings. Information that cannot be covered during the time designated for Committee Reports on the agenda may be presented as handout or submitted as a formal written committee report.  Items relating to committee reports that require Board approval are scheduled as a separate agenda item and included in the Board packet as a Request for Board Action.

County Board Proceedings (Minutes)

Proceedings are kept of all official Board meetings to provide a record of the actions of the County Board .  Board meeting proceedings are not official until the Board reviews them and they are officially approved at a Board meeting.  Proceedings are available for view during regular business hours or can be viewed on the County webs site at any time.  Certified copies of Board proceedings can be obtained by contacting the County Auditor’s office.  A summary of the proceedings are published in the official county paper of record.

Meetings Open to Public

All meetings of the Board (regular, special, and emergency) are open to the public but are not public forums.  Constituents wishing to address the Board should schedule an appointment with the County Auditor. 

Public Participation at Board Meetings

The Board of Commissioners desires public participation at its meetings, but also has the responsibility for conducting its business in an orderly fashion.

Citizens interested in requesting to address the full Board regarding a specific issue or concerns are asked to contact the County Department Head responsible for the area of interest or concern.  Lake of the Woods County Department heads are as follows: County Assessor, Wayne Bendickson; Interim County Attorney, Michelle Moren; County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid; Emergency Management Director, Holly House; Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen; Human Resources Director, Wade Johannesen; Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund; County Sheriff, Dallas Block; MIS Director, Brent Birkeland; County Recorder, Sue Ney; Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler; County Treasurer, Mark Hall; Veterans Service Officer, Rick Rone, County Surveyor, Donn Rasmussen. Citizens who are unsure of who they should contact may find assistance from the County Auditor’s office or may call their Commissioner.   The County Auditor can’t schedule an appointment on a matter that does not have the sponsorship of a Commissioner or a Department head.

Protocol for Addressing the Board

Before addressing the Board, it is necessary to obtain the right to speak or ”obtain the floor” from the presiding officer (Chairman)   This means that you stand and address the presiding officer, by his/her title: Mr. Chairman or Madam Chairman.  The Chair will then recognize you by asking for or announcing your name and giving you permission to speak.  You may then address the Board.

Meeting Order

Interruption or other interference with the orderly conduct of the Board of Commissioners cannot be allowed. Defamatory or abusive remarks are always out of order. The presiding officer (Chairman) may terminate the speaker’s privilege of address if, after being called to order, they persist in improper conduct or remarks.

At a public meeting of the Board, no person shall orally initiate charges or complaints against individual employees of the County (due to laws governing data practices) or debate any subjects under jurisdiction of the Courts. All such charges, if presented to the Board directly, shall be referred to the Auditor or desginee for investigation and report.

Closing of a Board Meeting

Occasionally the Board may find it necessary to close a meeting to acquire legal advice related to pending litigation or to handle confidential personnel matters that would violate data practices to discuss publicly. According to Minnesota Open Meeting Law, Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(b) “meetings may be closed if the closure is expressly authorized by statute or permitted by the attorney-client privilege”.   

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

LAND AND WATER PLANNING DIRECTOR, JOSH STROMLUND

Vehicle

Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board requesting authorization to tow and repair the Land and Water Planning vehicle.  Consensus of the board was to have Josh use his best judgment and if cost is over $1,000 to get two estimates.

Legislative Appointment

Josh informed the board of a possible appointment to the SWCD Legislative Committee.  Consensus of the board was for him to move forward with the appointment.

GIZIIBII RC&D APPOINTMENT

Josh recommended that George Swentik be the appointee as member at Large for GIZIIBII RC&D Association Council.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize Chair Patty Beckel and County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to sign the GIZIIBII RC&D Council document.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

MARINA DRIVE ESTATES

Josh requested a extension for the recording of Marina Drive Estate due to a “Texas Notary” error on the final plat.

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to extend the Marina Drive Estate recording from January 13, 2009 for 60 days for allowable time for a reprint of the final plat due to notary error.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Boundary Commission

Josh recommended that Donn Rasmussen, Surveyor from Widseth, Smith & Nolting be the Chair of the Boundary Commission. The board concurred with his recommendation.

ENVIRONMENTAL SALES TAX

The board discussed the intent to utilize some of the new environmental sales tax revenue to help pay for the expenses that Counties incur when they comply with the storm water and erosion control permits.  No action was taken at this time.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Grants

Emergency Manger Director, Holly House met with the board to discuss the EOC grant that is available for application again. Holly asked for direction from the board if they wanted her to resubmit this grant, for the county was not awarded the grant last year. The board requested that she resubmit the grant.

Homeland Security Training

Holly informed the board that the National Incident Management System courses have changed and have been replaced, and it is recommended that whoever has a role in the emergency operation plan should complete these courses at some point.

Correspondence:

Correspondence was read and discussed:

  1. Citizens for Farmland Preservation in reference to open meeting law.
  2. Koochiching County news Article in reference to upcoming deficit.
  3. Biomass Field Day/Workshop on February 18, 2009.
  4. University of Minnesota Extension/canola/grass seed position- Grass Seed Council has discontinued funding,
  5. Wetland handouts.
  6. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service- Timberwolves placed on threatened listing in Minnesota.
  7. AMC update- MOE hearing scheduled.

Old/New Business

The board discussed the following old and new business: 

Old:

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

New:

Stone Garden grant was discussed and placed on the Committee of the Whole Agenda scheduled for January 20, 2009; President Elect Obama stimulus package was also placed on the January 27, 2009 agenda.

Committee Meeting Reports:

  1. Commissioner Patty Beckel updated the board of breakdowns on snow equipment at the Airport due to the heavy snowfall.
  2. Cormorant dates were discussed and requested that County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid try to reschedule meeting dates with the federal agency.

Adjournment

With no further business before the board, Chair Patty Beckel adjourned the meeting at 12:30 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                                                                               Approved:       January 27, 2009

_____________________________                                                                       ____________________________

Janet E. Rudd, Deputy Auditor                                                         Patty Beckel, Chair

Commissioner Proceedings

January 27, 2009

The Lake of the Woods County Board met in regular session on Tuesday, January 27, 2009, in the Commissioners’ Room in the Lake of the Woods County Government Center.

Call to Order

Chair Patty Beckel called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance with the following members present:  Commissioners Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Hanson and Moorman. Also present were: County Auditor, John W Hoscheid; Gloriann Fischer; Penny Mio Hirst and John Oren.

Approval of Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the agenda with the addition of MN Department of Natural Resources Road Inventory dates.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Consent Agenda

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the consent agenda as follows: Travel for Jodi Ferrier to Duluth on April 23 – 24, 2009, for Regional Child Maltreatment Conference. Seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Approval of Minutes

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the commissioner minutes of January 13, 2009.  Seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Social Services Director, Nancy Wendler

Claims

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

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

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 15,456.77 

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $   8,594.83

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

Williams Senior Center

Commissioner Moorman explained to the county board the current financial deficit of the Williams Senior Center and their meal program.  There was no action taken by the board and the board requested this to be placed on future agendas under “Old Business” and Commissioner Moorman will relay this to the Williams Senior Center Board.

County Auditor, John W Hoscheid

Claims

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

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

                                                Revenue                                     $ 29,244.07

                                                Road & Bridge                          $   4,186.36

                                                County Development                $   3,500.00

                                                Solid Waste                               $   1,859.58

                                                                                                   $ 38,790.01

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

WARRANTS APPROVED ON  1/27/2009 FOR PAYMENT  1/30/2009

    AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME                                                              AMOUNT   VENDOR NAME

          471.29 BAUDETTE REGION                                                 458.00 TERRI CALI

        1099.94 CENEX CO-OP SERVICES, INC.                              6864.92 DELL MARKETING, LP

          377.12 MARK HALL                                                            1145.00 HELGESON FUNERAL CHAPEL

          364.34 HILLYARD INC HUTCHINSON                                 536.49 JOHN HOSCHEID

        1000.00 KKWQ – BORDER BROADCASTING                       1125.00 LAKE SUPERIOR MACK & VOLVO TRU

          784.39 LAKEWOOD HEALTH CENTER                               379.89 LUTHERAN SOCIAL SERVICE OF MN

        4773.00 MN COUNTIES INSURANCE TRUST                        762.00 MN COUNTY ATTORNEYS ASSN

        2431.02 MN DEPT OF TRANSP                                               800.00 MN RED RIVER VALLEY DEV. ASS’N

        2100.00 MN RURAL COUNTIES CAUCUS                              900.70 JEROME MOLINE

        1576.29 NORTH EAST TECHNICAL SERVICE,I                    405.00 PITNEY BOWES INC.

        4000.00 RESERVE ACCOUNT                                                 408.00 RODERICK RONE JR

        2500.00 ST. LOUIS COUNTY AUDITOR                                 314.50 SUN MONITORING

          433.20 US FOOD SERVICE, INC

30 PAYMENTS LESS THAN  $300       2,779.92

FINAL TOTAL     $38,790.01

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

                                                January 13, 2009                      $     9,089.31

                                                January 20, 2009                      $   62,088.96

                                                January 21, 2009                      $   71,297.86

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

Northwestern Minnesota Juvenile Center

Northwest Juvenile Center Superintendent Bill Frey and Residential Treatment Program Director Scott Nyegaard gave a presentation explaining the services and programs provided at the Northwestern Minnesota Juvenile Center.  Bill explained the cost structure as it applies to Lake of the Woods County.  There was no board action taken.

The meeting was called to recess at 9:55 a.m. and reconvened at 10:05 a.m.

No Net Loss Policy

The county board discussed the “No Net Loss Policy”.  There was no action taken at this time and the board requested this to be placed on future agendas under “Old Business”.

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen

Public Hearing – Five Year Construction Plan

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the regular session at 11:00 a.m. and open the Public Hearing for Highway – Five Year Construction Plan as advertised.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen presented the Five Year Construction Plan. 

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to the close the Public Hearing at 12:00 p.m.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried. 

The regular meeting reconvened at 12:01 p.m.

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to accept the Five Year Construction Plan as presented by Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

National Association of County Engineers Annual Meeting

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen requested permission to attend the National Association of County Engineers Annual Meeting and Management and Technical Conference in Peoria, Illinois, April 19 – 23, 2009.  The county board discussed the request and it died for lack of a motion. 

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen discussed dates for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Road Inventory and set Tuesday, February 24, 2009, at 10:00 a.m.

The meeting was called to recess at 12:15 p.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m.

Boundary Commission

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the regular session at 1:00 p.m. and open the Boundary Commission hearing.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Area citizens attended the Boundary Commission hearing and presented various comments to the board for discussion.  Commissioner Patty Beckel acknowledged all comments and stated that she will relay all options to the Boundary Commission.  Survey estimates will be place on the next board agenda.

Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the Boundary Commission hearing.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

The regular meeting reconvened at 3:00 p.m.  

Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to remove Commissioner Hanson and Don Rasmussen from the Boundary Commission and to have Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund secure two additional Boundary Commission members.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Commissioner Todd Beckel left the meeting at this time.

City of Baudette Assessing Agreement

Interim County Attorney, Michelle Moren met with the board to discuss an agreement with the City of Baudette for assessing.  The board suggested a one year contract for the year 2008 and for any future contracts to meet with the City of Baudette.

County Surveyor

Interim County Attorney, Michelle Moren and Donn Rasmussen, Surveyor with Widseth, Smith and Nolting met with the board to discuss surveyor contracting services. 

Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the Surveyor Contract with Widseth, Smith and Nolting contingent on the insurance requirements and final approval of Interim County Attorney; and to approve County Chair, Patty Beckel and County Auditor, John W Hoscheid to sign the same.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  Commissioner Todd Beckel was absent.

Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to appoint Donn Rasmussen, as County Surveyor for Lake of the Woods County for the year 2009.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  Commissioner Todd Beckel was absent.

Old/New Business

Commissioner Todd Beckel returned to the meeting.

The board discussed the following old and new business: 

Old:

LOW County Reverse Phone System was discussed and will be placed on the next agenda.  The Investment Policy was discussed and will be placed on the next agenda. There have been no new updates on the ANI, County TV or City of Williams (Williams Community Center – old school).  

New:

There was no new business discussed at this time.

Meeting Reports:

There were no meeting reports at this time.

Correspondence:

Correspondence was acknowledged from: 

Lake of the Woods Quality Forum on March 11 – 12, 2009 in International Falls; Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation – Larry Kallemeyn Award; Ditch Law Training, Commissioner Hanson would like to attend; Beltrami Veterans Home – Resolution, will be added to next board agenda; Headwaters Resource and Development Commissioner – Cliff Tweedale and Senator Coleman’s office – referencing a resolution on minnow delivery.

The County Board would like to recognize the County Election staff for the 2008 Election and share the following thank you letter from Mark Ritchie, Secretary of State:

“Dear Mr. Hoscheid:

On behalf of myself and the Office of the Secretary of State, I would like to thank you and your staff for your extraordinary work during the US Senate recount.  The work of hand-counting nearly three million ballots over the course of forty-seven days would not have been possible without your expertise and dedication.

Throughout this process, I have marveled at the dedication of our local election officials.  You were committed to completing the recount process in an accurate and transparent manner, all the while dealing with an onslaught of media, legal briefs from the campaigns, data practice act requests, and orders from the Minnesota Supreme Court.  The professionalism displayed by our election officials during the recount helped to reassure Minnesotans that the process was fair and that the outcome reflects the will of the nearly three million voters who cast a ballot in the election.

It has been my very great honor to serve as Minnesota’s Chief Election Official during this historic election.  Thank you for your efforts during the recount and for your continued service to the State of Minnesota.

Sincerely,

Mark Ritchie, Secretary of State”

Other:

It was noted that there would be Conference Call for a Cormorant Meeting on Tuesday, February 17, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. in the Commissioners Room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center.

Recess

With no further business before the board, Chair Patty Beckel called the meeting to recess at 3:59 p.m.

Attest:                                                                                                 Approved:       February 10, 2009

_____________________________                                                  ____________________________

John W Hoscheid, County Auditor                                                    Patty Beckel, Chair