January 27, 2026

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, January 27,2026 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Pay Equity Compliance Report Approval.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of January 13,2026.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $12,533.88; Commissioners Warrants $835.54; Commissioners Warrants $21,335.90.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $148,637.73; Road & Bridge $27,993.15; Solid Waste $16,004.23; EDA $1,751.99.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION 

Warrants Approved On 1/27/2026 For Payment 1/30/2026 

Vendor Name Amount

Compass Minerals America 14,432.48 

Counties Providing Technology 9,035.00 

Headwaters Regional Development Commiss 3,500.00 

Information Systems Corporation 12,529.00 

LOW Soil & Water Cons. Dist. 92,242.00 

Pb Distributing Inc 4,023.50 

Pennington County Sheriff Office 16,585.59 

Rainy Lake Oil, Inc 2,524.50 

Red Lake Builders Inc 8,450.00 

Summit Fire Protection 2,486.00 

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50 

Wilkens Industries 3,037.44 

37 Payments less than 2000 19,273.09 

Final Total: 194,387.10

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: January 14, 2026 for $271,304.42; January 21, 2026 for $158,814.71; January 21, 2026 for $1,811.24; January 14, 2026 for $348,535.39.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set a work session with the DNR NW Regional Director for March 24, 2026 following the regular board meeting.

Board Appointments

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to appoint Jennifer Lind Loughrey to the North Country Community Health Board & the North Country Community Health Services Advisory Committee.

Pay Equity Compliance Report Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the Pay Equity Compliance Report as presented.

Human Resources

MN Paid Family Leave Policy Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the MN Paid Family Leave Policy and Employee Leave Request Form as presented.

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave a brief update on various projects.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously set a work session for Solid Waste on February 10, 2026 following the regular board meeting.

Department of Natural Resources

Ditch Modifications at Winter Road Lake Peatland Scientific & Natural Area (SNA)

Meredith Cornett and Torin McCormack provided a presentation on ditch modifications at winter road lake peatland scientific and natural area and discussed potential options with the board.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at  10:05 a.m.

Attest: January 27, 2026

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Joe Grund

January 13, 2026

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, January 13,2026 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of December 30,2025.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of January 6,2026.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $28,892.56; Commissioners Warrants $6,131.00; Commissioners Warrants $24,580.27.

Contract Approval-Stellher Human Services

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the contract between Lake of the Woods County and Stellher Human Services for children’s mental health crisis intervention and stabilization services effective January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026 and for Social Services Director Amy Ballard to sign the same.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $304,867.13; Road & Bridge $80,206.35; Joint Ditch $2,315.00; Solid Waste $49,863.00; EDA $1,500.00.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 1/13/2026 For Payment 1/16/2026

Vendor Name Amount

Air Med Care Network 16,803.00

Bolton & Menk 4,130.00

ByteSpeed, LLC 39,500.00

Clay County Sheriff 3,140.32

Farmers Union Oil company 3,019.53

Integris LLC 2,240.07

KnowBe4, Inc 6,488.25

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 26,907.50

Mar-Kit Landfill 13,630.50

Mn Assn Of Counties  10,657.00

Mn Counties Computer Co-Op 33,075.00

MN Counties Intergovernmental Trust 198,136.00

Mn County Attorneys Assn 2,098.00

Northdale Oil Inc. 17,819.49

Schneider Geospatial, LLC 28,028.00

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

Woody’s Service 3,097.76

45 Payments less than 2000 23,712.56

Final Total: 438,751.48

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: December 31, 2025 for $118,893.64; January 8, 2026 for $66,646.41.

Audit Engagement Letter

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the Audit Engagement Letter, for the year ended December 31, 2025, with Hoffman, Philipp, & Martell, PLLC and for the Chair Joe Grund and Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Auditors Delinquent Tax Publishing Cost Fee Increase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, second by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to increase the delinquent taxes publishing cost fee from $35.00 to $50.00 to offset the rising costs of publication in recent years effective immediately for delinquent year 2025 publishing year 2026.

City of Baudette Cigarette License

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the cigarette license application for the City of Baudette as presented. 

Lakewood Nursing Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the contract between Lakewood Health Center and Lake of the Woods County effective January 1, 2026 and for Chair Joe Grund, County Attorney Michelle Moren, and Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave a brief update regarding peatland discussion with the DNR.

Human Resources

Grade Increase-Appraiser II to Appraiser III

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to change Tyler Swanson from Appraiser II to Appraiser III due to completion of certification requirements at Grade 15, Step 7, $35.30 per hour at 339 points effective next full pay period.

Grade Increase-IT Tech

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to change Nicolas Hanson to Grade 15, step 2 at $32.12 per hour at 334 points due to the completion of probation effective next full pay period.

Land & Water

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #25-06CU by Blue Line Consulting, LLC

The NW1/4NW4, Section Nine (9), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-four (34) West (Chilgren)-Parcel ID#17.09.22.000. Applicant is requesting an amendment to Conditional Use Permit #22-14CU, to allow an additional structure to operate as a Short-term Vacation Rental in a Rural Residential Development (R2) Zoning District.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, and carried unanimously to approve the following Conditional Use Permit/Findings of Fact #25-06CU by Blue Line Consulting, LLC to allow an additional structure to operate as a Short-term Vacation Rental in a Rural Residential Development (R2) Zoning District:

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Blue Line Consulting, LLC Parcel Number:  17.09.22.000 Date:  January 13, 2026

Location/Legal Description:  NW¼NW¼ Section 9, Township162N, Range 34W

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting an amendment to Conditional Use Permit #22-14CU, to allow an additional structure to operate as a Short-Term Vacation Rental in a Rural Residential Development (R2) Zoning 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?  Vacation rental and rural residential development.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  New septic system and the well meets drinking water standards.

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 (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

6. Has the erosion potential of the site based upon the degree and direction of slope, soil type and existing vegetative cover been adequately addressed for the project proposal? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not?  Access via 44^th Street NW.

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

Why or why not?  Rural residential.

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 (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  New septic system installed for the 2-bedroom dwelling.

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 (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Property has a private well and two compliant septic system.

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? Not necessary.

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? Not planned or needed.

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?  Plenty of parking available.

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

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

1. The Conditional Use Permit terminates upon sale or transfer of the property.
2. Quiet time from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.
3. Must post local contact information in the dwelling.
4. Must meet Minnesota Department of Health regulations.

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

January 13, 2026 _____________________________________

Date Joe Grund Chair, County Board

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

Consideration of Interim Use Permit #25-09IU by SQ Properties, LLC

Lot 4, Block 2, Rainy River Retreat, Section Twenty-four (24), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West- Parcel ID#19.62.02.040. Applicant is requesting and Interim Use Permit as required by Section 1106 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to operate a Short-term Vacation Rental in a Residential Development (R1) Zoning District. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following Interim Use Permit/Findings of Fact #25-09IU by SQ Properties, LLC to operate a Short-term Vacation Rental in a Residential Development (R1) Zoning District:

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Short-Term Vacation Rental Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  SQ Properties, LLC Application Number:  25-09IU Date:  January 13, 2026

Location/Legal Description:  Lot 4, Block 2, Rainy River Retreat Parcel Number:  19.62.02.040

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting an Interim Use Permit, as required by Sections 1106 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance, to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Development (R1) Zoning 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?  Property is located in the growth corridor and the land use is a mix of residential and commercial.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  As per the submitted application, this property is connected to the Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District and the water test results meet drinking water standards.

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

Explain?  The property is located within the Wheeler’s Point area which has a mix of residential and commercial use.

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

Explain?  Property is accessed from Pickeral Trail NW.

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

Explain?  There should be less traffic as compared to normal residential traffic and parking will be located on the property.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  See submitted application.

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

Explain?  See submitted application.

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

Explain?  The maximum occupancy is eight (8).

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

Explain?  Property is located within the Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District.

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

Explain?  The established quirt hours are 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.

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

Explain?  See submitted application.

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

Explain?  See submitted application.

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

Explain?  See submitted application.

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Explain?  No signage has been requested.

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Explain?  A fence is already present on three (3) sides of the property.

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

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

1. The interim use permit terminates five (5) years from the date of approval or upon sale or transfer of the property, whichever occurs first.
2. The maximum occupancy is limited to eight (8) individuals.
3. The established quiet hours are from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am.
4. No on-street parking is allowed.
5. If applicable, the applicant must meet the Minnesota Department of Health requirements.
6. The outside door that services bedroom #2 (see sketch as per application) is to remain functional and not obstructed until such time a larger window is installed that meets egress standards.

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

January 13, 2026 _____________________________________

Date Joe Grund Chair, County Board

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

Sheriffs Office-Sergeant Ben Duick

Off Highway Vehicle Safety Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the Off Highway Vehicle Safety Grant for 2026 & 2027 in the amount of 18,051.92.

Snowmobile Safety Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the Snowmobile Safety Grant for 2026 & 2027 in the amount of $7,513.12.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 9:30 a.m. and reconvened at 10:00 a.m.

Public Hearing-ATV Ordinance

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the Public Hearing. 

ATV Ordinance Amendment

The board reviewed proposed amendments to the ATV Ordinance.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to close the Public Hearing and open the regular meeting.

ATV Ordinance Resolution

Resolution

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

Lake of the Woods County ATV Ordinance

Resolution No. 26-01-05

WHEREAS; Minnesota Statutes §84.92-84.928 generally regulates the use of all terrain vehicles within the right of way for trunk highways, county state aid highways, and county roads;

WHEREAS; Minnesota Statutes § 84.928, subd. 6 (c) (2) authorizes counties to enact an ordinance which provides for the operation of all-terrain vehicles;

WHEREAS; Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on January 13, 2026 to hear public comments on the proposed Lake of the Woods ATV Ordinance amendments;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, THAT; Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby approves the Lake of the Woods ATV Ordinance amendments as presented.

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

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY ORDINANCE  FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF ALL TERRAIN VEHICLES  IN THE PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY ON ROADS  WITHIN THE COUNTY’S JURISDICTION  THE COUNTY BOARD OF LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY DOES ORDAIN:

Subdivision 1.  Purpose and intent. 

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes §84.92-84.928 generally regulate the use of all terrain vehicles within the right of way for trunk highways, county state aid highways, and county roads. Pursuant to Minnesota Statute §84.928, subd. 6 (c)(2) and, consistent with this ordinance, and to provide for the health, safety and welfare of its citizens, and to ensure the integrity of roads falling under the jurisdiction of Lake of the Woods County, this Ordinance is enacted to regulate the use of all-terrain vehicles on county state aid highways, county roads, and unorganized township roads within Lake of the Woods County.  

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes § 84.928, subd. 6 (c)(2) authorizes counties to enact an ordinance which provide for the operation of all-terrain vehicle on a road right of way shoulder, or inside bank or slope of a county highway or county state-aid highway if safe operation in the ditch or outside slope is impossible and the county posts the appropriate notice, notwithstanding any law to the contrary.

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County recognizes that county residents are also interested in using their ATV’s on county maintained roads to access other areas without having to trailer their ATV’s.

Subdivision 2. Definitions. 

The following definitions apply to this Ordinance:

• ATV or All Terrain Vehicle shall mean a Class 1 All-Terrain Vehicle, as defined in Minn. Stat. §84.92, subd. 9 and Class 2 All-Terrain Vehicle subd. 10.

• County means the County of Lake of the Woods, Minnesota. 

• County Maintained Roads means all County State-Aid Highways, County Roads, and Unorganized Township Roads outside of an incorporated municipality located in Lake of the Woods County.  State highways and city streets are not included in this ordinance.

Subdivision 3. Findings

WHEREAS, Pursuant to Minnesota Statute §84.928, subd. 6(c), the County makes the following findings:

• That most of the county maintained roads are in an area of the County that is generally flat and contains numerous and extensive lowlands.
• That a portion of the terrain adjacent to these roads is such that travel by ATV’s in the ditch or outside slopes of such roads is not possible.
• That a portion of County maintained roads do not have ditches and that brush, trees and other vegetation exist immediately adjacent to the edge of the roadway.
• That reconstructed roads have well vegetated slopes and ditch bottoms costing several thousand dollars per mile to establish and should not be damaged or destroyed.

Subdivision 4.  Regulations for Operation on County Maintained Roads 

• Persons operating all terrain vehicles on any County maintained roadways, outside incorporated municipalities, must operate the all terrain vehicle on the extreme right hand side of the road, making left turns across the road only if it is safe to do so under prevailing conditions.
• Persons operating all terrain vehicles within the right of way of any of the county maintained roadways shall not operate their ATV on the inside slope, ditch bottom or outside slope of the right of way.
• Except as otherwise provided in this Ordinance, operation of all terrain vehicles shall be in compliance with Minnesota Statutes §84.92 – 84.928, as well as any other federal, state, or local rule or regulation as it applies to sections in this ordinance.
• No person shall operate an ATV, or other motorized vehicle, on the bike trail between Baudette and the Lake of the Woods School or any other trail where motorized vehicles are prohibited.
• No person shall operate an ATV on Lake of the Woods County maintained roads at a rate of speed greater than reasonable or proper under the surrounding circumstances.
• Persons may be allowed to operate Class 1, Class 2, OHM (off highway motorcycles), and ORV (off road vehicles) on the Lake of the Woods Connector Trail.

Subdivision 5.  Information gathering for program

The Lake of the Woods Sheriff’s Office shall collect and compile Incident Case Report data reported to the Sheriff’s Office from the public regarding ATV use on county maintained roads. In addition, complaints received by County Board members will be received and recorded.

Subdivision 6.  Penalties

Any person who violates any provision of this ordinance is guilty of a misdemeanor as defined in Minn. Stat. §609.02, subd. 3.

Subdivision 7.  Effectuation

This Ordinance, as amended, shall take effect and be in full force January 13, 2026 upon its adoption by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, and its publication in the official newspaper of Lake of the Woods County as provided by Minnesota Statutes; unless otherwise terminated by further resolution of the Lake of the Woods County Board. 

Recess

A brief recess took place at 10:10 a.m. and reconvened at 10:15 a.m.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to add set work session to the agenda.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to set a work session for January 27, 2026 following the regular board meeting.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 10:20 a.m.

Attest: January 27, 2026

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Joe Grund

January 6, 2026

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

Election of Chair and Vice Chair 

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson called for nominations for Chair for Lake of the Woods County Board for the year 2025. Commissioner Buck Nordlof nominated Commissioner Joe Grund for Chair with Commissioner Ed Arnesen seconding the nomination. County Auditor/Treasurer called for nominations two more times.

Chair
Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the nominations for Chair.

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson called for a roll call for Commissioner Joe Grund for Chair.  Roll call carried as follows: All in favor: Commissioners: Jon Waibel, Joe Grund, Cody Hasbargen, Ed Arnesen, and Buck Nordlof.  Against: None.  Commissioner Joe Grund assumed the position of Chair of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners for 2026.

Vice – Chair

Chair Joe Grund called for nominations for the position of Vice-Chair for the year 2026.  Commissioner Jon Waibel nominated Commissioner Buck Nordlof for Vice-Chair for Lake of the Woods County Board with Commissioner Cody Hasbargen seconding the nomination. Chair Joe Grund called for nominations two more times.  

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to close the nominations for Vice-Chair.  

Chair Joe Grund called for a roll call for Commissioner Buck Nordlof for Vice-Chair.  Roll call carried as follows: All in favor: Commissioners, Jon Waibel, Joe Grund, Cody Hasbargen, Ed Arnesen, and Buck Nordlof.  Against: None. Commissioner Buck Nordlof assumed the position of Vice-Chair of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners for 2026.

Approval of Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Elected Officials Minimum Salaries.

OFFICIAL COUNTY NEWSPAPER BID-OPENING

County Auditor/treasurer

Bank Signature Cards

National Bank of Commerce Signature Cards

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Connie Nesmith and Chair Joe Grund to sign the National Bank of Commerce signature cards for account numbers 6443,6484,3846,8645.

National Bank of Commerce  Signature Cards

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson and Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Connie Nesmith to sign the National Bank of Commerce signature card for account number 8645 and investments.

Border Bank Signature Cards

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson and Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Connie Nesmith to sign the Border Bank signature card for account number 2404.

National Bank of Commerce Motor Vehicle Checking Account

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to authorize County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Erik Tange, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Anna Sanchez, Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Connie Nesmith and Deputy Auditor/Treasurer Chelsea Anderson for account number 6450.

Official Depositories

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to designate the following institutions as Official Depositories of county funds for the year 2026:

1. National Bank of Commerce, Baudette Branch
2. Border Bank, Baudette Branch
3. Wells Fargo
4. Multi Bank Securities

It was further moved to designate National Bank of Commerce, as the official safekeeping Institution for Lake of the Woods County.

Elected Officials – Minimum Salaries

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson presented the 2026 Minimum Salaries for Elected Officials to the board for approval.

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

Resolution For

Establishing Minimum Salaries for Elective Offices

Resolution No. 2026-01-02

WHEREAS, M.S. 388.18, Subd. 2, (County Attorney), M.S. 386.015, Subd. 2b, (County Recorder), and M.S. 387.20, Subd. 2b, (County Sheriff), 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 2026:

County Attorney: $104,462.64

County Recorder: $80,450.64

County Sheriff: $89,262.00

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

Approval of 2026 Committees

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the following committees for the year 2026:

2026 ASSOCIATION OF MINNESOTA COUNTIES (AMC)

Ag Task Force: Commissioner Jon Waibel; Alternates: Commissioners;

Environmental and Natural Resources: Commissioner Ed Arnesen; Alternates: Commissioners;

General Government: Commissioner Buck Nordlof; Alternates: Lorene Hanson and Commissioners;

Health and Human Service: Commissioner Joe Grund and Amy Ballard; Alternates: Commissioners;

PILT Advisory: Commissioners and Josh Stromlund;

Public Safety: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen; Alternate: Commissioners

Transportation and Area Transportation Alliance: Commissioner Jon Waibel and Anthony Pirkl; Alternates: Commissioners;

2026 COUNTY RELATED COMMITTEES

Airport Commission:  Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Border Coalition/Passports: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Jon Waibel, Sue Ney and Jill Olson;

Building and Safety Committee: Commissioner Jon Waibel, Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Anthony Pirkl, John Butenhoff, Lorene Hanson, Amy Ballard, one from Law Enforcement, and Safety Director;

Continuity of Operation Plan (COOP): Jill Olson and Commissioners;

County Extension Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Lorene Hanson.  Additional Members: Tabitha Ubel, Kenneth Horntvedt, Dean Thompson, Colleen Stanton, Nyla O’Connell and Sandy Peterson. Extension Members: Emma Torgeson, Lisa Loegering and Karen Santl. 

County TV:  Commissioner Joe Grund, Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Kent Christianson, Lorene Hanson, John Butenhoff and Jill Olson;

Data Privacy Administrator: Savanna Slick; Lorene Hanson; Michelle Moren

Department Head Liaison: Chair/Commissioner Joe Grund; Alternates: Commissioners;

Department Liaisons:  

Assessor – Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Land and Water Planning Office – Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Attorney – Commissioner Buck Nordlof; 

MIS – Commissioner Joe Grund; 

Sheriff – Commissioner Jon Waibel; 

Social Services – Commissioner Ed Arnesen; 

Recorder – Commissioner Buck Nordlof; 

Highway – Commissioner Ed Arnesen; 

Auditor/Treasurer – Commissioner Joe Grund; 

H/R – Commissioner Buck Nordlof; 

County Surveyor- Commissioner Joe Grund;

Veterans Service Officer – Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Rick Rone

Tourism Bureau- Commissioner Ed Arnesen; 

Wheelers Point Sewer- Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Economic Development Authority- Commissioner Jon Waibel

Maintenance-Commissioner Joe Grund

Department of Natural Resources: Commissioner Ed Arnesen and Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Drainage Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Joe Grund, Byron Tviet, Anthony Pirkl, Josh Stromlund, Dennis Johnson, Marshall Nelson and SWCD Representative;

Enhanced 911 Committee: Commissioner Buck Nordlof and Commissioner Jon Waibel, Eric Solo, Gary Fish, Jill Olson and other local appointees;

Grievance Committee: Chair/Commissioner Joe Grund, Michelle Moren, Savanna Slick, Daryl Fish, Josh Stromlund and Angie Eason; Alternate: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Information Systems/Technology Committee: Commissioner Joe Grund, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, John Butenhoff, Josh Stromlund, Boyd Johnson, Lorene Hanson, Craig Severs and Michelle Moren; 

Insurance Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Jon Waibel, Amy Ballard, Lorene Hanson, Sue Ney, Ben Duick and Savanna Slick;

Jail Committee: Commissioners, Gary Fish, Anthony Pirkl, Michelle Moren, Tami Mauer, John Butenhoff, and Lorene Hanson;

Joint Drainage Authority: 

JD22: Commissioner Joe Grund-District 3, Commissioner Ed Arnesen-District 5, Commissioner Jon Waibel-District 4; 

JD 62: Commissioner Joe Grund- District 3, Commissioner Ed Arnesen-District 5, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen-District 2; 

Labor/Management Committees: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Savanna Slick, and Lorene Hanson; Alternate: Commissioner Buck Nordlof;

Lake of the Woods Affordable Housing/Loan Committee: Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Sue Ney, Alisa Jacobsen and Lorene Hanson; Alternate:  Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Law Library:  Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Michelle Moren to appoint and Chief Judge to appoint;

Legislative Committee:  Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Jon Waibel.

Motor Pool Committee: Commissioner Jon Waibel, Lorene Hanson, Jodi Ferrier, Alisa Jacobsen, Josh Stromlund, John Butenhoff; Alternate:  Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Northwest Angle Community Greenhouse Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Joe Grund, Anthony Pirkl, Paul Colson, and Joe Laurin.

Opioid Committee: Commissioner Joe Grund, Kay Schell (Public Health), Doris Knutson, Sandy Peterson (County Prevention Coalition), Craig Severs (Law Enforcement), Jodi Ferrier (Social Services), Michelle Moren (Attorney), Lake of the Woods School, and Lakewood Health;

Ordinance Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Jon Waibel, Michelle Moren, Gary Fish, Josh Stromlund; 

Park Commission: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Anthony Pirkl and Joe Laurin; Alternate: Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Personnel Committee (combined Compensation Plan and Personnel): Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Savanna Slick, Sue Ney, Anthony Pirkl, Christine Hultman, Lorene Hanson and Daryl Fish;   

Public Information Officer: Lorene Hanson; Alternate: Savanna Slick and Michelle Moren;

SHIP Committee: Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Alternate: Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Snowmobile Trails Committee: Commissioner Joe Grund and Commissioner Buck Nordlof;

Solid Waste Committee/Household Waste: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen (as the (NWMNHHW representative for the Joint Powers Agreement), Commissioner Joe Grund, Anthony Pirkl, Tina Rennemo, Lorene Hanson and Alisa Jacobsen; 

Subdivision Controls Committee: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Josh Stromlund, Alisa Jacobsen, Sue Ney, John Butenhoff and Commissioner of the District involved;

Township Road and Trails: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Joe Grund, Anthony Pirkl, Josh Stromlund, John Butenhoff, Boyd Johnson, Eric Solo, and Alisa Jacobsen;  

Northwest Angle Development: Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen; Alternates: Commissioners;

Vets Service: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Commissioner Joe Grund, Steve Levasseur, Marie Cochra, Glen Lawrence, and VSO Rick Rone;

Wellness Committee: Commissioner Buck Nordlof, Angie Eason, Julie Berggren, Savanna Slick;

2026 BOARDS/COLLABORATIVE/COALITION

Arrowhead Library System:  Deb Perala (01/01/23-12-31-26); Alternate: Commissioner Buck Nordlof (01-01-22-12-31-25);

Board of Adjustment-/Planning Commission: District 1- David Marhula, District 2-Tim Nordlof, District 3- Marshall Nelson, District 4- Tom Mio, District 5-Nancy Dunnell; at large; Ken Horntvedt and Weston Johnson; non-voting Commissioners;

Border Substance Abuse Court and Steering Committee: Commissioner Jon Waibel and Amy Ballard;

Humane Society: Commissioner Joe Grund and Gary Fish;

Headwaters Regional Development Commission: Commissioner Buck Nordlof and Commissioner Jon Waibel; Alternate: Commissioner Joe Grund;

Joint Powers Natural Resources Board: Commissioner Joe Grund and Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Keep It Clean Committee/Aquatic Invasive Species: Commissioner Ed Arnesen;

Lake of the Woods County Children and Families Collaborative and Prevention Coalition Committee:   Commissioner Joe Grund;

Lake of the Woods Criminal Justice Coalition and Children’s Justice Initiative: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Land Sales Committee: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and Commissioner Jon Waibel; Alternate: Commissioners

Mid-State Co-op: Delegate #1 – John Butenhoff, Delegate #2 – Alisa Jacobsen;

Minnesota Counties Computer Co-op: Delegate #1 – John Butenhoff, Delegate #2 – Lorene Hanson; Alternate: Michelle Moren; 

Minnesota Counties Intergovernmental Trust: Commissioner Jon Waibel; Alternates: Commissioner Buck Nordlof and Lorene Hanson;

Minnesota Rural Counties Caucus: Commissioner Ed Arnesen; Alternates: Commissioners;

North Country Community Health Board:  Commissioner Joe Grund (term expires 12/31/28) and Tom Mio (term expires 12/31/26) these are three-year terms; Alternate: Cody Hasbargen

North Country Community Health Services Advisory Committee: re-appoint Commissioner Joe Grund (term expires 12/31/27) and Tom Mio (term expires 12/31/27) these are two-year terms; Alternate: Cody Hasbargen

Northern Counties Land Use Coordinating Board: Commissioner Ed Arnesen and Josh Stromlund; Alternates: Commissioner Buck Nordlof and Commissioner Cody Hasbargen;

Northwest Board of Aging/Area Agency: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and Amy Ballard; Alternates: Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Northwest Community Action: Commissioner Ed Arnesen and Commissioner Jon Waibel; Alternates: Commissioners;

Northwest Minnesota Juvenile Center Board: Amy Ballard (term expires 12/31/2026, appointed in 2023).  This is a four-year term;

LOTW Water Shed Joint Powers Board: Commissioner Ed Arnesen; Alternate: Commissioner Buck Nordlof;

Red River Valley Development Association:  Commissioner Ed Arnesen and Ken Horntvedt;

Regional Advisory: Jill Olson;

Rainy Rapid Water Shed One Plan Committee: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Commissioner Ed Arnesen, Nancy Dunnell; SWCD Representative;

NW Emergency Communications Board: Commissioner Ed Arnesen; Alternates: Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and Jill Olson;

SWCD District Committee: Commissioner Joe Grund and Josh Stromlund; Alternate Commissioner Jon Waibel;

Joint Jail Koochiching County Committee: Commissioner Jon Waibel, Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, Sheriff Gary Fish, Tami Mauer, Michelle Moren, Lorene Hanson; Alternate: Craig Severs.

DITCH AUTHORITY

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to close the regular meeting and open ditch authority.

Ditch Assessments

The following Ditch Assessments were recommended by the Ditch Authority and presented to the County Board for 2026:

• CD 1: $22,800.00
• CD 2: $882.40
  • JD 16: $8,500.00
  • JD 24: $16,000.00
  • JD 26: $24,000.00
  • JD 28:  $50,000.00
• JD 22:  $4,800.00 (Joint Ditch with Roseau County)
• JD 62: $16,900.00 (Joint Ditch with Roseau County)

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to close the Ditch Authority meeting and reconvene the regular meeting.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the recommendations of the Ditch Authority to set the 2026 Ditch Assessments as follows: County Ditch 1-$22,800; County Ditch 2-$882.40, Judicial Ditch 16 Outlet Fee- $8,500; Judicial Ditch 24- $16,000; Judicial Ditch 26- $24,000; Judicial Ditch 28-$50,000; Judicial Ditch 22-Joint Ditch with Roseau-$4,800; Joint Ditch 62 with Roseau-$16,900.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set a work session for ditches on February 24,2026 following the board meeting.

Set County Road Tour Date

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to set the county road tour date and the annual ditch meeting date for October 21, 2026 prior to the Joint Ditch Meeting.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 9:35 a.m. with a work session to follow and reconvened at 11:00 a.m.

Part-time Deputy/Part-time Dispatch Position

Due to Law Enforcement contract & budget cuts it was the consensus of the board to eliminate a Full Time Deputy position and replace it with a Permanent Part Time position with the hours split between Deputy and Dispatch at the discretion of the Sheriff.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried with Commissioner Cody Hasbargen opposing to approve the request to change Sheriff Deputy Wyatt Shaw from Full Time Deputy to Permanent Part-time Deputy and Dispatch (30 hours per week to be split between the two positions at the discretion of the sheriff) at Grade 16, Step 2 $32.32 per hour effective next full pay period 1/18/2026.  This position will be reviewed in three months in a work session to be set at a later date.

Public Employee Police and Fire Plan

Resolution

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

Resolution No. 26-01-03

Public Employees Police and Fire Plan

WHEREAS, the policy of the State of Minnesota as declared in Minnesota Statutes 353.63 is to give special consideration to employees who perform hazardous work and devote their time and skills to protecting the property and personal safety of others; and

WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes Section 353.64 permits governmental subdivisions to request coverage in the Public Employees Police and Fire plan for eligible employees of police departments whose position duties meet the requirements stated therein and listed below.

BE IT RESOLVED that the Commissioners of Lake of the Woods County hereby declare that the position titled Part Time Deputy Sheriff, currently held by Wyatt Shaw meets all of the following Police and Fire membership requirements:                        

Said position requires a license by the Minnesota peace officer standards and training board under sections 626.84 to 626.863 and this employee is so licensed;

Said position’s primary (over 50%) duty is to enforce the general criminal laws of the state;

Said position charges this employee with the prevention and detection of crime;

Said position gives this employee the full power of arrest, and 

Said position is assigned to a designated police or sheriff’s department.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this governing body hereby requests that the above-named employee be accepted as a member of the Public Employees Police and Fire Plan effective the date of this employee’s initial Police and Fire salary deduction by the governmental subdivision.

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

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to add Set Work Session to the agenda.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commission Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to set a work session for maintenance for January 13, 2026 following the regular board meeting. 

Permission to Hire Training Help

Motion

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried with Commissioner Cody Hasbargen opposing to approve the request to hire Rita Hasbargen to assist with additional training in the Auditors Office at $40.00 per hour effective 01/06/2026.

Closed Session

Resolution

The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the following:

Resolution Closing Board Meeting

Resolution No. 2026-01-04

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, Lake of the Woods County entered into a Settlement Agreement (“Agreement”) in the Matter of Hibbing Taconite Mine and Stockpile Progression and Williams Creek Project Specific Wetland Mitigation, which Agreement was dated October 6, 2015 (OAH Docket No. 11-2004-31655); and

WHEREAS, the Agreement resolved issues prior to litigation; and 

WHEREAS, parties to the Agreement, are seeking to modify certain terms and conditions of the Agreement; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board seeks to meet with its attorney, to discuss the modification of the agreement; and

WHEREAS, it would be detrimental to the interests of the Lake of the Woods County Board to hold a public discussion with its attorney regarding the strengths and weaknesses of its legal position(s), strategy, and potential settlement position regarding the requested modifications, where an opposing party or opposing attorney could listen to or be made aware of Lake of the Woods County’s positions; and

WHEREAS, there is an absolute need for the Lake of the Woods County Board to obtain confidential legal advice regarding the potential settlement modifications in order to maintain the attorney-client privilege.

BE IT RESOLVED by the Lake of the Woods County Board as follows:

The Lake of the Woods County Board hereby closes this meeting based upon the attorney-client privilege pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(b); and

The specific subjects to be discussed, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.01, subd. 3, are the legal strategy in the Office of Administrative Hearings matter as set forth in the recital above and any settlement proposals regarding the modifications to the Agreement requested by Cliffs, which may be made by or responded to by the Lake of the Woods County Board. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to close the closed session and open the regular meeting.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the amended agreement between Lake of the Woods County and Cliffs Natural Resources and for Chair Joe Grund to sign the same.

ADJOURN

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to adjourn the meeting at 11:30 a.m.

Attest:     January 13, 2026

______________________________     _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson     Chair Joe Grund