MINUTES & AGENDAS
October, 2009
Commissioner Proceedings
Special County Board Meeting
October 9, 2009
The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in special session on Friday, October 9, 2009, in the Commissioners’ room of the Lake of the Woods County Government Center.
Call to Order
Chair Patty Beckel called the meeting to order at 8:08 a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners Arnesen, Todd Beckel, Patty Beckel, Hanson and Moorman.
Approval of Agenda
Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the agenda for the special meeting today. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
2010 Budget Review
The County Board reviewed the budget for 2010. They discussed a fifty cent ($.50) per hour raise for employees which would be approximately $87,000 and the actual levy increase of only $20,000; and ideas of how to make this work.
Health Insurance
The County Board discussed the employees’ health insurance plans for 2010. They reviewed the 2010 renewal and plans offered; and reviewed the results from the employees’ survey. It was the consensus of the County Board to stay with PEIP for 2010, and to survey the employees the option of converting the county’s current plan to the new advantage plan offered by PEIP.
Recess
The meeting was called to recess at 10:05 a.m. and reconvened at 10:35 a.m. as follows:
Union Negotiations Meeting
Commissioners Todd Beckel and Arnesen left the special meeting at 10:05 a.m. for a union negotiations meeting and returned at 10:35 a.m.
Review of Cost Savings
The County Board reviewed cost savings suggestions from the Department Heads. It was the consensus to research the position of Auditor/Treasurer and how to put it on the ballot for the next election.
Marketing Plan
The County Board discussed the marketing plan that was presented on Thursday, October 1, at the ambulance garage and the possibility of funding a portion from the county development fund. No action was taken.
Other Budget Issues
The County Board discussed the windows for Government Center North. The consensus was to paint the windows next year.
Strategic Planning
The County Board discussed the AMC Cohort Program and what we could do to find a facilitator for a meeting of the whole, with commissioners and department heads, to start the process again.
Recess
There being no further business before the County Board, Chair Patty Beckel called the meeting to recess at 12:15 p.m.
Attest: Approved: October 13, 2009
______________________________ ___________________________________
John W Hoscheid Patty Beckel
County Auditor County Board Chair
COMMISSIONER PROCEEDINGS
OCTOBER 13, 2009
The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, October 13, 2009, in the Commissioners’ Room of 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 the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, 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 for the meeting today with additions. The 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, for travel: Travel for Nancy Wendler, Amy Ballard, Michelle Moren and Wade Johannesen to St. Paul on October 28-29 for a Minnesota Merit System Appeal Hearing; Rita Krause to St. Paul on October 26-28 for State Committee Meeting for Child Support; Brent Birkeland to Bagley on October 19-20 for Microsoft SRS Training. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the minutes of September 22, 2009 regular meeting with changes. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the special meeting of October 9, 2009 with changes. The motion was 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 County Board requesting approval of claims.
Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the following claims against the county:
Commissioners’ Warrants $ 9,114.09
Commissioners’ Warrants $ 13,153.52
Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Service Agreement
Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to approve the Lake of the Woods County Social Services Minnesota Family Investment Program and Children and Community Services Act (MFIP/CCSA) Biennial Service Agreement for 2010/2011, and authorize the Chair to sign. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
HUMAN RESOURCES
Early Retirement Incentive Payment
Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen met with the Board to discuss deferring the payment for the early retirement incentive to 2010. The consensus of the board was that the payment would not be deferred and payable at retirement.
SCHOOL FOREST COMMITTEE
SWCD Resource Technician, Corryn Trask, met with the board requesting a letter of support for the School Forest Agassiz LowLands Environmental Learning Area.
Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize the Chair to sign the letter of support for the School Forest. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
LAKE OF THE WOODS SCHOOL
School Forest Trails
School Forest Coordinator Reed McFarlane and Superintendent, Steve Wymore met with the board to discuss the School Forest trail maintenance. They requested in kind services from the county for one time use of their equipment to establish/ prepare trails. The consensus of the board was that they would offer the in-kind service to help with the trail maintenance and would talk with Public Works Director to get an estimate of cost associated with the project.
Crossing Issue
Transportation/Grounds Supervisor Reed McFarlane and Superintendent, Steve Wymore met with the board and requested that the county install a crossing on the south 40 acres at the school. The consensus of the board was that they would talk with Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen and get back to them.
EXCUSED FROM MEETING
County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and Commissioner Todd Beckel excused themselves from the meeting to attend the Legislative PILT Audit meeting.
RECESS
The meeting was called to recess at 10:00 a.m. and reconvened at 10:05 a.m. as follows:
COUNTY AUDITOR
Deputy Auditor, Lorene Hanson met with the board and requested approval of claims.
Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the claims as follows:
Revenue $ 90,047.83
Road & Bridge $107,443.75
Co. Develp. $ 3,067.10
Solid Waste $ 29,284.57
$229,843.25
WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION
WARRANTS APPROVED ON 10/13/2009 FOR PAYMENT 10/16/2009
AMOUNT VENDOR NAME AMOUNT VENDOR NAME
1505.57 ANDY’S GARAGE, INC. 1158.59 ANIXTER INC
1600.00 ANOKA COUNTY 1051.81 AUTO VALUE BAUDETTE
899.81 DALLAS BLOCK 1460.00 BORDUN TRUCKING, LTD
1080.00 SHIRLEY BOSSHART 48301.00 BOWMAN CONSTRUCTION CO. INC
1158.75 BRAD’S PLUMBING & HEATING, INC 540.00 BREEZY POINT RESORT
342.99 CANON FINANCIAL SERVICES INC 2595.33 CENEX CO-OP SERVICES, INC.
4960.00 D & S SALES 381.40 DEPUTY REGISTRAR NO.75
13958.19 DERKSEN TRUCKING LTD 3020.19 DYNAMIC IMAGING SYSTEMS, INC
341.12 EMBASSY SUITES 2668.02 EMERGENCY AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOG
1445.74 RICHARD GOODERUM 800.00 LEE HANCOCK
301.85 HOLEN ELECTRIC 372.00 JOHN HOSCHEID
2954.76 HOWARD’S OIL COMPANY 4917.56 KNIFE RIVER MATERIALS
360.00 ROBERT LAPOS 7667.50 LAVALLA SAND & GRAVEL INC
1000.00 LOW DRIFTERS – BIG TRAVERSE TR 555.60 LOW FOODS
5559.56 LOW HIGHWAY DEPT 752.40 M-R SIGN CO, INC
10246.50 MAR-KIT LANDFILL 650.00 MN ASSN OF COUNTIES
2703.72 MN COUNTIES COMPUTER CO-OP 1162.25 MN COUNTIES INFORMATION SYSTEM
14000.00 MN MUNICIPAL UTILITIES ASSOC 375.00 MN OFFICE OF ENTERPRISE TECHNO
365.00 MN STATE DEPT OF PUBLIC SAFETY 15842.36 MN STATE DEPT-CORRECTION
402.00 JEROME MOLINE 5830.50 LAW MOREN
315.28 NORTHERN FARMERS CO-OP 425.00 DAVID OLSON
1297.00 OUTDOORS AGAIN 326.00 PITNEY BOWES INC.
1954.34 POWERPLAN 2533.02 R & Q TRUCKING, INC
1309.95 RODERICK RONE JR 1605.41 ROSEAU COUNTY COOPERATIVE ASSN
538.68 RUTTGER’S BAY LAKE LODGE 1750.00 SJOBERG’S INC
1333.80 STOSKOPF REDI-MIX OF ROSEAU IN 315.00 TAMMY’S SIGNS
886.06 TRI-STAR RECYCLING, INC 340.77 TRUE VALUE
450.97 TWIN CITIES MACK & VOLVO TRUCK 373.79 ULINE
1079.60 UNIVERSITY OF MN 3075.97 VOYAGEURS COMTRONICS, INC
908.44 WALLEYE CAPITAL SANITATION 415.70 WARROAD MOTORS INC
579.92 WEST GROUP 27234.58 WHERLEY MOTORS
2260.83 WIDSETH SMITH NOLTING&ASST INC 4650.95 WOODY’S SERVICE
1500.00 WYNNE CONSULTING, INC
56 PAYMENTS LESS THAN $300 7,095.12
FINAL TOTAL $229,843.25
Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:
September 22, 2009 $ 18,630.34
September 25, 2009 $ 918.00
September 30, 2009 $ 15,041.78
October 6, 2009 $ 49,243.59
The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Gambling Permit
Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the exempt gambling permit for the Northwest Angle Edge Riders to conduct a lawful gambling for a raffle on February 27, 2010 at Jerry’s Restaurant and Lounge and authorize County Auditor to sign. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
AMC CONFERENCE
County Commissioners will be attending the AMC District meeting on October 28, 2009 in Bemidji and the AMC Annual Conference on December 6-9, 2009 in Minneapolis.
OLD/NEW BUSINESS
The County Board discussed the following old and new business:
New:
None
Old:
The board discussed the following old business:
- Assessing Agreement- Commissioner Patty Beckel gave to the City of Baudette for approval
- County TV- Press release to go out that testing will begin starting October 20th with the transition from analog to digital
- Capital & General Expenditure Policy- Wade is working on
- Oak Island Petition- place on October 27, 2009 agenda
- County Coroner- remove from old/new business
- Land Acquisition- Attorney requested abstracts
There were no new updates on:
- ANI, Red Lake Tribe Meeting, Township Road Inventory , Community Support Program (CSP)
COUNTY SHERIFF
Jail Inspection
County Sheriff, Dallas Block met with the board and reviewed the Facility Inspection Report from the MN Department of Corrections. Dallas informed the board that they are now on a Biennial inspection compared to the Annual inspection they were on in the past.
County Coroner
County Sheriff, Dallas Block informed the board that all Deputy Sheriffs with the exception of one part-time deputy will be attending the Coroner Training class today to become certified as Deputy Coroners.
LAND AND WATER PLANNING
Energy Exchanger Contractual Agreement
Assistant Zoning Director, Steve Sindelir met with the board requesting authorization for the Chair to sign the contractual agreement with J& L Hennum Inc.
Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize the Chair to sign the Contractual Agreement between Lake of the Woods County and J&L Hennum Inc. d.b.a Sportsman’s Lodge, according to MN rule 6115 to accept the responsibility for future maintenance and removal of an energy exchanger, in the event that the private owner fails to maintain or abandons the facility. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried. Commissioner Patty Beckel abstained from voting.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Commissioner Hanson informed the board that there was a change in plans of the location for the Veterans to meet with the Veteran’s Service Officer. The location will be at the VFW club due to the handicapped accessibility issue with the Legion Club. A press release will be out shortly to let the community know what days the Veteran Service Officer will be available at the VFW club.
Commissioner Moorman informed the board that the booth at the Potato Day event was successful.
RECESS
The meeting was called to recess at 10:55 am. and reconvened at 11:05 a.m. as follows:
COUNTY TREASURER
Investments
County Treasurer, Mark Hall met with the board to discuss the Inventory of Investments with the board. The board discussed the “Sweep Account” and requested that Mark come back to the board at the next meeting to discuss the pledge collateral status of the account.
RETURNED FROM PILT MEETING
County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and Commissioner Todd Beckel returned from the Legislative PILT Audit meeting at 11:23 am.
BUDGET
The Commissioners set a budget meeting for October 29, 2009 at 2:30 p.m.
DITCH AUTHORITY
DNR Benefits Evaluation for Ditch 1
Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to close the regular meeting at 11:35 a.m. and open the Ditch Authority meeting. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen reviewed the summary of Ditch Benefit evaluation from the Department of Natural Resources, with the determination from the Commissioner that there are no net positive impacts, and there are no benefits to state owned lands by the ditch system, which means no assessment payments from the State.
Ditch 1 Repair Projects
Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen presented the estimated cost of Ditch 1 repairs. Bruce recommended removing sediments at culvert ends and back filling wing walls.
Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen to remove sediments at culvert ends and back fill wing walls as funding allows. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the Ditch Authority meeting and open the regular meeting at 11:55 a.m. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Final Payment
Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen requested authorization for final payment to Knife River Materials.
Motion by Commissioner Hanson to accept the County Public Works Director’s Certificate of Performance for S.A.P. 39-606-17, S.A.P. 39-620-03, S.A.P. 39-631-04, S.A.P. 39-632-04, S.A.P. 39-634-03, S.A.M. 30-08, S.A.P. 39-040-01and C.P. 368-08 for Knife River Materials of Bemidji, MN in the total amount of $1,146,824.55 and hereby authorize final payment of $55,988.54. Seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Quotes for Fuel
Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board and informed them of quotes they received from the following businesses for the period of November 1, 2009 through April 30, 2010:
| Location | Regular Unleaded | #1 Diesel on Road Undyed Fuel | #1 Diesel off Road Dyed Fuel | #2 Diesel on Road Undyed Fuel | #2 Diesel Off Road Dyed Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Co-op | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.05 |
| Holiday Station | 0.05 | ||||
| Howard’s Oil | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.05 | |
| Woody’s Service | 0.10 | N/A | 0.10 | N/A | 0.10 |
He informed the board that they will be purchasing from Co-op Services #1 and #2 Diesel On Road Undyed Fuel, Howard’s Oil they will purchase #1 and #2 On Road Undyed Fuel and from Woody’s Services they will purchase Regular Unleaded and #1 and #2 Off Road Dyed Fuel.
Solid Waste
Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen requested approval for the adoption for the Special Assessment fee schedule as proposed.
Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to adopt the Solid Waste Special Assessment fee schedule as proposed. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Patty Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen requested approval for the changes to the Solid Waste Service Fee Policy as proposed.
Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve the changes to the Solid Waste Service Fee Policy as proposed. Motion was seconded by Commissioners Patty Beckel. Voting for: Commissioners Patty Beckel and Arnesen. Voting against: Commissioners Todd Beckel, Hanson and Moorman. Motion died.
Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the Solid Waste Service Fee Policy with the rate fee as last year (1 unit= $100.00 and Seasonal rate = $68.00). Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
School Crossing/School Trail Maintenance
Chair Patty Beckel informed Bruce about the School Crossing issue that was discussed earlier in the meeting and what his recommendation would be. Bruce recommended that the School pay for the culvert and the county could take care of the field work. The consensus of the board was to go forward with Bruce’s recommendation.
Chair Patty Beckel requested that Bruce figure the cost associated with the School Trail Maintenance for the use of county equipment and staff.
RECESS
The meeting was called to recess at 12:45 p.m. and reconvened at 1:25 p.m. as follows:
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Communication Assessment Report
Jim Freging, from Federal Engineering Inc. presented results of the Interoperable Communications Assessment for Lake of the Woods County
All-Hazard Mitigation
Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize the Chair to sign the Hazard Mitigation Assistance Program for Lake of the Woods County. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
COUNTY AUDITOR/MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT
Air Conditioning Quote
County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and Maintenance Supervisor Matt Mickelson met with the board and presented the quote they received from Trane. The board discussed various options and requested more information on the air conditioner for the computer room.
CORRESPONDENCE
Correspondence was acknowledged from:
- Rural Minnesota CEP, Inc.
- Letter from landowner- water diversion issues
RECESS
With no further business before the County Board, Chair Patty Beckel called the meeting to recess at 3:45 p.m.
Attest: Approved: October 27, 2009
____________________________ ____________________________
John W Hoscheid, County Auditor Patty Beckel, County Board Chair
Commissioner Proceedings
October 27, 2009
The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, October 27, 2009, in the Commissioners’ Room of 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 the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Arnesen, Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, 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 for the meeting today with additions. The 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 for travel: Bruce Hasbargen to Minneapolis on December 7-9, 2009 for AMC Annual Conference. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Approval of Minutes
Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the minutes of October 13, 2009 regular meeting with changes. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman 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 County Board requesting approval of claims.
Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to approve the following claims against the county:
Commissioners’ Warrants $ 18,183.65
Commissioners’ Warrants $ 6,192.28
Motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Emergency Management
Radio Interoperable Communications
Emergency Management Director, Holly House met with the Board and reviewed the options presented by the Federal Engineering. At this point maintaining the current analog VHF system is the most viable option. Holly informed them that the county has to convert to narrowband at some point before 2013, but the costs of doing that are minimal. Holly explained that by not migrating to the state ARMER system, the county will be eligible for radio control units that will be placed in dispatch. These control units will allow them to communicate with those entities that are on the 800 MhzARMER systems. Holly requested approval to send a letter to the State Division of Emergency Communications Networks that commits to taking these units. The consensus of the board was to have Holly send a letter to the Division of Emergency Communications Networks (DECN) to commit to the radio control units.
Holly requested approval for County Sheriff, Dallas Block to sign a commitment agreement with Rogers Two Way Radio, a requirement of the State DECN to ensure they are installed by a qualified installer.
Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize County Sheriff, Dallas Block to enter into an agreement with Rogers Two Way Radio to install the radio control units if needed, contingent upon the approval of Interim County Attorney, Michelle Moren. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Tower Sites
Holly informed the board that the 800 MHz frequency on the Department of Transportation (DOT) tower in Roosevelt will be active late this year or early next year. There are four (4) additional towers scheduled to be built in Lake of the Woods County near Baudette, Carp, Lude and Faunce. A representative from DOT will be here on Thursday to discuss tower placement and also look at the options of placing these towers on county owned land.
Land and Water Planning meeting
Board of Water & Soil Resource Block Grant
Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board requesting approval for the Chair to sign the Board of Water & Soil Resources Natural Resources Block Grant for 2008.
Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize the Chair to sign the Board of Water & Soil Resources Natural Resources Block Grant for 2008. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Clean Water Grants Opportunity
Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and informed them of the available grants that are made possible through the Clean Water fund.
Pine and Curry Island Grant Proposal
Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund updated the board on the Pine & Curry Island Restoration project that SWCD and Land and Water Planning Office is compiling to summit to the Conservation Partners Legacy Grant.
Ditch Committee
Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund informed the board that the SWCD members would like to participate when the Ditch Committee meets again. The board requested that Josh contact Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen with his request.
NE Wetland Mitigation Strategy
Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund met with the board and informed them that the NE Wetland Mitigation for Phase II is completed and will be out for comments and recommendations. The board requested that Josh request Mr. Jasky to meet with them to review the NE Wetland Mitigation Strategy.
Proposed State Budget Deficit
Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund discussed the states revenue shortfall and the possible effects that it will have with the SWCD offices.
Recess
The meeting was called to recess at 10:35 a.m. and reconvened at 10:40 a.m. as follows:
Oak Island Landowners Association Petition
Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund discussed the Oak Island Landowners Association Petition that was submitted to the County. Josh’s view was that it was unclear as to where the proposed zoning district would apply, as the petitions references Oak Island, the NW Angle Islands, and the NW Angle and Islands. The board requested that Josh send a letter requesting clarification of the Oak Island Landowners Association Petition so they can take the next necessary action and to let the petitioners know that this topic will be discussed at the annual spring meeting conducted at the NW Angle. The exact date of the meeting will be set at the County Board organizational meeting held in January 2010.
Strandberg Letter
Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund discussed the Strandberg’s letter of concern of water diversion onto their lot. Based upon the information gathered, it is the opinion of his office that the cause of the water issue on the property is not directly related to the neighbor’s activities rather, it is cause of multiple natural conditions (precipitation events, landscape position, and other natural features). The board requested Josh to send a letter to the Strandberg’s on behalf of the board that after reviewing the information presented to them, they concurred with the findings of his office and authorized the Chair to sign the letter.
Dnr Fisheries Department
Area Fisheries Supervisor, Phil Talmage met with the board and presented the 2009 Fall Gill Netting Summary.
Recess
The meeting was called to recess at 11:45 a.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m. as follows:
County Attorney
Closed Session Pursuant Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, Subd.3 (b)
The following were present in closed session: Commissioner’s Patty Beckel, Todd Beckel, Moorman, Hanson and Arnesen, Interim County Attorney, Michelle Moren, County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid, Social Service Director, Nancy Wendler and Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen.
Resolution was offered by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the regular meeting at 1:02 p.m. and the following resolution was moved for adoption:
RESOLUTION CLOSING BOARD MEETING
Resolution No. 09-10-01
WHEREAS, the Minnesota Open Meeting Law, Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(b) states that “meetings may be closed if the closure is expressly authorized by statute or permitted by the attorney-client privilege”; and
WHEREAS, the County Board has been threatened with litigation involving Mary Beth Dornheim; and
WHEREAS, Counsel for Mary Beth Dornheim has requested that the County enter into settlement discussions regarding the threatened litigation; and
WHEREAS, the County Board seeks to meet with its attorney, to obtain advice regarding the threatened litigation and settlement proposals set forth by legal counsel for Mary Beth Dornheim pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 388.051; and
WHEREAS, it would be detrimental to the interests of the County for the Board to hold a public discussion with its attorney regarding the strengths and weaknesses of its legal position(s), strategy, and potential settlement position where an opposing party or opposing attorney could listen to or be made aware of the County’s positions; and
WHEREAS, there is an absolute need for the Board to obtain confidential legal advice regarding the litigation and potential settlement in order to maintain the attorney-client privilege.
BE IT RESOLVED by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners as follows:
- The County Board hereby closes this meeting based upon the attorney-client privilege pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(b);
- The specific subjects to be discussed, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.01, subd. 3, are the legal strategy in responding to the particularized litigation against the County, and any settlement proposals which may be made by or responded to by the County.
The resolution was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Open Closed Session
Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to close the closed session at 2:08 p.m. and reconvene the regular meeting at 2:16 p.m. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Public Works Director
Letter to Governor Pawlenty- Maintenance of Public Drainage Ditches
Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen presented a letter that was drafted by Kittson County Engineer, Kelly Bengtson requesting support from Lake of the Woods County Commissioners regarding maintenance of Public Drainage Ditches.
Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to support the Maintenance of Public Drainage Ditch letter to Governor Pawlenty. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Moorman and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Red Lake Tribal Council- meeting date
Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen discussed the possible meeting dates with Red Lake Tribal Council to discuss the road construction at the Northwest Angle and other issues. The following dates were January 12, 2009, February 9, 2010 and March 9, 2010. The board requested that Bruce set the meeting date before the 2010 Organizational meeting.
Letter from District 2 County Engineers
Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen discussed the letter from the District 2 County Engineers regarding the revenue and appropriations within the County State Aid Highway Fund and feel that these concerns should be discussed and addressed by the MCEA Board and legislative action should be taken if needed.
LaValla Demo Landfill
Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board to discuss the removal of the LaValla Demo Landfill. A concern previously mentioned by the board was to have the removal completed before the New Year. Bruce requested authorization to proceed with the most cost-effective manner.
Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to authorize Public Works Director to move ahead with the LaValla Demo Landfill up to $20,000 for the removal of the debris. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Budget Meeting
Chair Patty Beckel discussed the 2010 Highway budget with Bruce. After discussion the board cancelled the October 29, 2009 meeting and rescheduled it for November 3, 2009 at 8:00 a.m.
Closed Road
The County Board discussed, with the Public Works Director, a concern regarding a gate across County Road 290. Bruce will send a letter to the landowner to help address the concerns.
Law Enforcement Storage
County Sheriff, Dallas Block and Public Works Director, Bruce Hasbargen met with the board and discussed the Law Enforcement storage at the Highway Department. Dallas informed the board that he is looking into storage off the premises and will report back to them when he has all the information on the cost.
Airport Commission
LakeWood Health Center CEO, SharRay Feickert and CEO Affiliate, Jason Breuer met with the board to express their support of renewing the airport manager contract with Emory Vaagen and to keep the same level of service available that life flight service requires.
County Auditor
Air Conditioning
County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and Maintenance Supervisor, Matt Mickelson met with the board to discuss the Air Conditioning quote for the computer room.
Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to authorize County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid to purchase the 2 ton Air Conditioning Unit for the computer room and other essential repairs needed with the funding from the unallocated account up to $19,000. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Airport Commission
Airport Manager Emory Vaagen met with the board at their request. The Commissioners thanked Emory for a great job that he has done at the Airport and discussed the renewal of his contract.
County Auditor
Claims
Motion was made by Commissioner Hanson to approve the claims as follows:
Revenue $ 53,259.25
Road & Bridge $217,529.27
Solid Waste $ 4,552.95
$275,341.47
WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION
WARRANTS APPROVED ON 10/27/2009 FOR PAYMENT 10/30/2009
AMOUNT VENDOR NAME AMOUNT VENDOR NAME
750.64 AIR SYSTEMS 463.70 AMERI PRIDE LINEN & APPAREL SE
41558.00 ARROWHEAD LIBRARY SYSTEM 3375.46 CENEX CO-OP SERVICES, INC.
5005.69 DEPUTY REGISTRAR NO.75 400.00 DEVON BUNKER EXCAVATING INC
48182.80 ELK RIVER FORD INC 669.00 GRAND VIEW LODGE
20112.81 HARDRIVES, INC 300.30 RON HILDEBRANDT
445.35 INDIANHEAD SPECIALTY 72932.78 JOHNSTON FARGO CULVERT INC
833.63 KNIFE RIVER MATERIALS 4440.00 LAVALLA SAND & GRAVEL INC
325.00 PAT LECLAIRE ELECTRIC (DBA) 441.30 M-R SIGN CO, INC
362.23 MN COUNTIES COMPUTER CO-OP 4995.11 MN DEPT OF TRANSP
11400.00 MN MUNICIPAL UTILITIES ASSOC 351.00 MN UC FUND DEPT ECONOMIC SECUR
858.00 MSOP-MN SEX OFFENDER PRGRM-462 1475.00 NATIONAL BUSINESS SYSTEMS
512.15 NELSON’S COLLISION CENTER 6122.23 NORTH AMERICAN SALT CO
423.66 NORTHERN SAFETY CO INC 453.73 NW MN HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS
4272.54 EMIL OLSON 759.76 RAMADA MALL OF AMERICA
811.81 RODERICK RONE JR 1381.33 SIMPLEX
744.36 STRATA CORP, INC 37401.90 TRAFFIC MARKING SERVICE, INC.
333.24 WEST CENTRAL MN COMMUNITIES AC
22 PAYMENTS LESS THAN $300 2,446.96
FINAL TOTAL $275,341.47
Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants:
October 13, 2009 $ 98,602.38
October 21, 2009 $ 1,532.73
October 22, 2009 $ 519,442.21
October 23, 2009 $ (15,000.00)
October 24, 2009 $ 62,156.40
The motion was seconded by Commissioner Todd Beckel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Completion of Probation Period-Step Increase
County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and informed the board of the completion and satisfactory review of Executive Administrative Assistance, Stacy Novak and requested a two (2) step merit adjustment.
Motion was made by Commissioner Arnesen to approve a two (2) step merit adjustment for completion of probation for Executive Administrative Assistance, Stacy Novak effective October 23, 2009. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the vote carried as follows: Voting for: Commissioners Arnesen, Hanson, Patty Beckel and Moorman. Voting against: Commissioner Todd Beckel.
Gambling Permit
County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid met with the board and requested approval for a gambling permit for the Fraternal Order of Police NW MN Lodge #8 to conduct a lawful gambling for a raffle on February 22, 2010 at Sportsman’s Lodge and authorize County Auditor to sign. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Health Insurance
County Auditor, John W. Hoscheid and Human Resource Director, Wade Johannesen met with the board to discuss the Health Insurance Survey that was conducted with the county employees. Wade informed the board that 28 employees responded and the survey favored the “Advantage Plan” by eighteen (18).
Motion was made by Commissioner Moorman to move to the Public Employees Insurance Program “Advantage Plan” for Lake of the Woods County employees for 2010. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Arnesen and the vote carried as follows: Voting for: Commissioners Arnesen, Hanson, Patty Beckel and Moorman. Voting against: Commissioner Todd Beckel.
Assessing Agreement
Chair Patty Beckel presented the 2009 City of Baudette Assessment Agreement to the board for approval.
Motion was made by Commissioner Todd Beckel to authorize County Auditor John W Hoscheid, Interim County Attorney Michelle E Moren and Chair Patty Beckel to sign the 2009 City of Baudette Assessment Agreement; contingent upon both City and County Attorneys’ approval. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Hanson and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.
Committee Reports
Commissioner Todd Beckel reported that the Association of Minnesota Counties would do the same work that the Minnesota Rural Caucus does for half the cost.
Chair Patty Beckel discussed the AMC District meeting report.
Commissioner Moorman informed the board of the HRDC long range plan for outreach regions for rehab purchases.
Chair Patty Beckel informed the board that the Economic Development committee is pursuing a 6 (six) month contract for an Economic Development Assistant.
Old/New Business
The County Board discussed the following old and new business:
New:
None
Old:
The board discussed the following old business:
- County TV- converted to digital today
- Capital & General Expenditure Policy- in process
- Land Acquisition- will be a couple weeks until completed
There were no new updates on:
- ANI, Community Support Program (CSP)
Recess
With no further business before the County Board, Chair Patty Beckel called the meeting to recess at 4:44 p.m.
Attest: Approved: November 10, 2009
____________________________ ____________________________
John W Hoscheid, County Auditor Patty Beckel, County Board Chair