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MINUTES & AGENDAS

June, 2015

Commissioner Proceedings

June 9, 2015

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

Call to Order

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

Approval of Agenda

Motion

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

Approval of Consent Agenda

None

Approval of Minutes

Motion

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

Representative Hancock

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

AMC DISTRICT 2 MEETING

Commissioner Beckel updated the board on the AMC District meeting.

Social Services

Claims

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

Motion

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

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 13,223.61

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $   4.373.40

Social Worker Supervisor

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

Motion

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

Land and Water Planning

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

Motion

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

auditor/treasurer

Claims

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

Motion

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

                                           Revenue                      $37,502.53                            

                                                Road & Bridge            $20,230.22     

                                                Co. Develop                $  9,953.50          

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

                                                EDA                            $        79.55       

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

                                                May 27, 2015              $ 649,381.33

\                                               June 4,   2015              $      5,878.50

                                                June 4,   2015              $1,005,743.67

                                                June 8,   2015              $   327,395.26

Vacant Auditor/Treasurer Positions

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

Motion

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

E-Time Card

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

Lost Warrants

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

Motion

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

RECESS

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

PUBLIC WORKS

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

Motion

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

Work Session

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

Drainage Committee

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

Motion

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

NO-NET-LOSS POLICY

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

GREAT NORTHERN TRANSMISSION LINE

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

RINKE NOONAN LAW FIRM

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

MCIT

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

NWA EDGERIDERS SNOWMOBILE CLUB

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

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

NWA MEETING AND EDA MEETING

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

BRIDGE REPLACEMENT COMMITTEE

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

Recess

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

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: June 23, 2015

_______________________                                                  _________________________________

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

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

Commissioner Proceedings

June 16, 2015

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

Call to Order

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

Approval of Agenda

Motion

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

NW ANGLE AIRPORT UPDATE

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

NWA AIRPORT SITE SELECTION

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

Emergency Management Director

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

Motion

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

NORTHWEST ANGLE EDGERIDERS

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

Resolution

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

Northwest Angle Edgeriders

Request for Gant Funds from

 Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission

2015-05- 04

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

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

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

Letter of Support

Motion

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

SHERIFF

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

Resolution

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

2014 Operation Stonegarden Grant

Resolution No. 15-05-05

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

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

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

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

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

I/Mobile System

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION TO ENTER INTO A JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT WITH THE

 STATE OF MINNESOTA

 FOR I/MOBILE SYSTEM

Resolution No. 15-05- 06

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

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

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

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

Part time Dispatch

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

RECESS

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

Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan

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

PUBLIC WORKS

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

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

LAKE OF THE WOODS TOURISM

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

FAMILY HOMELESS PREVENTION

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

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING ADMINISTRATION OF

THE MINNESOTA HOUSING FINANCE AGENCYS

FAMILY HOMELESS PREVENTION AND ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

RESOLUTION NO. 15-06-07

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

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

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

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

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

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

Approved this 16 day of June, 2015

BY: ________________________________       BY:_______________________________

(Authorized Officer)                                 (Authorized Officer)                           

ITS: _______________________________        ITS:______________________________

        (Title)                                                (Title)

COUNTY AUDITOR/TREASURER

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

Motion

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

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

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

Attest:                                                                              Approved: June 23, 2015

____________________________                                  _______________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer                                                  Chairman of the Board

Lorene Hanson                                                                   Edward Arnesen

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

Commissioner Proceedings

June 23, 2015

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

Call to Order

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

Approval of Agenda

Motion

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

Approval of Consent Agenda

None

Approval of Minutes

Motion

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

auditor/treasurer

Claims

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

Motion

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

                                           Revenue                      $  20,495.04                            

                                                Road & Bridge            $268,695.70     

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

                                                EDA                            $     8,299.55      

NEED WARRANTS

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

                                                June 10, 2015              $ 418,687.56

                                                June 17, 2015              $   37,633.64

Schrandt Cartway Hearing

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

Motion

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

GREAT NORTHERN TRANSMISISON LINE

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

Resolution

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

MINNESOTA POWER’S GREAT NORTHERN TRANSMISSION LINE

RESOLUTION NO. 15-06-08

MPUC Docket No. E015/TL-14-21

OAH CASE NO. 65-2500-31637,

DOE OE DOCKET NO. PP-398

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

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

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

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

CORRESPONDENCE:

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

Social Services

Claims

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

Motion

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

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 10,346.16

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $   4.352.80

                                                Commissioners’ Warrants          $ 32,285.86

Social Worker Supervisor

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

Motion

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

2016 BUDGET SESSIONS

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

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

Land and Water Planning

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

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION

15-06-09

Amended Comprehensive Local Water Plan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PUBLIC WORKS

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

Motion

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

Motion

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

Brush Trailer

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

RECESS

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

LAND AND WATER PLANNING

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

Motion

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

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

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

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

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

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

Why or why not?  Allowing commercial venture in agricultural area.

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not?  Will not.

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

Why or why not?  Not in floodplain.

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

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

Why or why not?  Not an issue.

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

Why or why not?  County Road #8 access.

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

Why or why not?  Agricultural.

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

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________ 

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________ 

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________

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

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

Why or why not? ______________________________________________________ 

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

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

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

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

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

Why or why not?  Storage and occasional access only.

The specific conditions of approval are as follows:

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

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

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

                                                                                    _____________________________________

                                                                                                            Edward Arnesen

                                                                                                        Chair, County Board

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

WILLIAMS CREEK PROJECT

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

CLOSED SESSION

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

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

BAUDETTE ARENA ASSOCIATION

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

Resolution

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

Resolution of LGU Mighty Ducks Grant Application

Resolution No. 15-06-10

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

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

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

TAX FORFEITED LAND-Old Williams School

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

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

Recess

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

Lake of the Woods County

Board of Appeal and Equalization

June 23, 2015

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

Call to Order

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

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

County Assessor

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

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

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

Property Owners

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

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

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

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

Recess

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

Reconvene

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

Call to Order

County Board Chair Ed Arnesen called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present:  Commissioners: Ed Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Tom Hanson, Ken Moorman and County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson.  Commissioner Buck Nordlof was absent.  Also present were: County Assessor Mary Jo Otten, County Attorney James Austad and Woody Fiala

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

Actions

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

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

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

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

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

Adjourn

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

Attest:                                                                                     Approved: July 14, 2015

_______________________                                                  _________________________________

Lorene Hanson,                                                                       Chairman of the Board, Edward Arnesen

County Auditor/Treasurer