October 28, 2025

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, October 14,2025 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Tobin Fisheries, Auditor’s Office Work Session, and Approve Final Payment: SAP 039-599-004 & SAP 039-599-005.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the official minutes of October 14,2025.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $8,769.00; Commissioners Warrants $3,096.44; Commissioners Warrants $21,220.29.

MFIP Biennial Service Agreement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) Biennial Service Agreement as presented by Social Services Director Amy Ballard.

Public Works

Case Conclusion Letter-MPCA

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl reviewed correspondence from Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) regarding the completion of requirements in the MPCA Stipulation Agreement.

Tobin Fisheries

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call with Commissioner Buck Nordlof abstaining to make an offer for the Tobin Fisheries building in the amount of $10,000.00 and for the county to remove the building, all contingent upon the County Attorney’s approval. 

Approve Final Payment

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the final payment of SAP 039-599-004 and SAP 039-599-005 for Korby Contracting Co. Inc. of Fergus Falls, MN in the total amount of $1,003,687.90 and hereby authorize final payment of $120,477.56.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $43,651.06; Road & Bridge $61,108.27; Joint Ditch $8,300.00; Solid Waste $106,970.49; EDA $1,550.00.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 10/28/2025 For Payment 10/31/2025

Vendor Name Amount

Accurate HD Ltd. 46,805.50 
American Engineering Testing, Inc.   4,731.70 
Greenview Landscaping, Inc               20,900.00 
Hoffman, Philipp & Martell, PLLC     8,325.00
Integris LLC     2,023.71 
John Deere Financial                 4,104.54 
Larkin Hoffman Attorneys   23,315.00 
Liberty Tire Recycling, LLC     5,635.43 
LOW Highway Dept   59,625.22 
Marco Technologies LLC     2,765.65 
Titan Energy Systems, Inc     3,079.92 
Titan Machinery – Roseau     2,043.89 
U.S. Bank Equipment Finance                   6,268.50 
Ziegler, Inc   15,285.00 

27 Payments less than 2000 16,670.76

 Final Total: 221,579.82

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: October 16, 2025 for $14,490.51; October 23,2025 for $394,805.04.

Con-Con Fund Application Review

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, Seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to make allocations to the following organizations from the Con-Con funds, Payable 2026:

Lake of the Woods County Development Year 2026

Williams Arena Assoc-$7,000.00; Baudette Community Foundation-Grand Theater-$7,000.00; Friends Against Abuse-$2,500.00; LOW Humane Society-$7,500.00; Williams Sr Center-$4,000.00; Williams Potato Day-$1,000.00; Joint Powers Natural Resources Board-$1,000.00; LOW Sr Fishing-$1,500.00; Take A Kid Fishing-$2,000.00; Auditing Fees-$4,000.00; Rinke Noonan/Drainage-$2,400.00; Scouting America Troop 62-$1,000.00; Scouting America Pack 4062-$1,000.00; Lake of the Woods Senior Citizens Council-$5,000.00; Depot Preservation Alliance-$5,000.00; Baudette Community Foundation-Fireworks-$5,000.00.

Land & Water

Set Public Hearing

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to set a public hearing for IUP #24-02IU on November 25, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

Maintenance

Quote Approval-Replacement of Condensing Coil

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the quote from Naylor Heating & Refrigeration in the amount of $3,596.02 for the replacement of a condensing coil in the AC unit on the roof of the county courthouse building.

Quote Approval-Fire Alarm Cell Dialer

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the quote from Summit Fire Protection in the amount of $1,800.00 to provide a cell dialer for the fire alarm panel in the public works building.

Invoice Approval-Troubleshooting the Fire Alarm System

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the invoice from Summit Fire Protection for troubleshooting the fire alarm system in the public works building in the amount of $1,913.00.

Contract Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the contract between Lake of the Woods County and Trane for the Tracer SC+ web-enabled Network Controller upgrade project.

Emergency Management

Community Wildfire Defense Grant Program (CWDG) FY25

Approval to Apply and Begin RFP Process

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the request to apply for the Community Wildfire Defense Grant Program (CWDG) FY25 and begin the RFP process.

Sheriff

Stonegarden Sheriff Salary

Resolution

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

AMEND COUNTY SHERIFF SALARY

Resolution No. 25-10-03

WHEREAS, the United States Department of Homeland Security has asked local law enforcement agencies along our Nation’s border to step up border monitoring, pursue joint objectives, and enhance their capabilities for providing border security; and,

WHEREAS, in an effort to assist local governments in fulfilling this request, the Department of Homeland Security through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division, offered “Operation Stonegarden 2024 grant; and,

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office is a successful recipient of an Operation Stonegarden 2024 grant; and,

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff has undertaken, as additional duties, the responsibility to avail himself and his officers for additional training, or to provide such training for his officers’ himself, for border protection and border security, and the additional duties of improving the distinct capability of the sheriffs’ office as a whole with regard to border security and border patrol as part of a joint mission; and in addition, as and for additional duties, the sheriff will necessarily devote more of his own time to border patrol and border enforcement; and,

WHEREAS, the Operation Stonegarden 2023 grant given to assist the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office in its efforts to secure the border includes the sum of $123,750.00 and $117,090.00 of this grant is for salaries.

WHEREAS, it is estimated that these additional border security duties will necessitate that the Sheriff expend on average another eight (8) hours per week; and,

WHEREAS, the Operation Stonegarden 2024 grant given to assist the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office in its efforts to secure the border includes the sum of $108,900.00 and $53,900.00 of this grant is for salaries and benefits.

WHEREAS, it is estimated that these additional border security duties will necessitate that the Sheriff expend on average another 8 hours per week; and,

WHEREAS, through the Operation Stonegarden 2023 and 2024 grants, all of the additional overtime worked by officers devoted to border security issues is fully reimbursable under the grant, including the cost of officer overtime pay, PERA, Medicare and worker’s compensation, so that the net cost of the additional homeland security duties to Lake of the Woods County is fully reimbursed by the grant.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the resolution setting the sheriff’s salary, as originally set by this board on December 17, 2024 was $109,306.80 and fringe benefits were $20,932.25, was amended for the 2023 Stonegarden Grant and the sheriff’s salary was increased by the sum up to $16,752.00 and fringe benefits were increased up to $3,208.01 commencing January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025, has now ended and;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, now amending the sheriff’s salary for the 2024 Stonegarden Grant so that the sheriff’s salary be amended and increased by the sum of up to $4,188.00 and fringe benefits are increased up to $802.00 commencing October 25, 2025 through December 31, 2025, with the increase funding from the Operation Stonegarden 2024 grant contingent upon the following:

1. That the Operation Stonegarden 2023 grant funding was available; and is now completed;
2. That the Sheriff worked, in addition to his regular duties, eight (8) hours per week of said Operation Stonegarden 2023 grant.
3. That the Operation Stonegarden 2024 grant funding be available;
4. That the Sheriff works, in addition to his regular duties, eight (8) hours per week of said Operation Stonegarden 2024 grant.

At such time that the Operation Stonegarden 2023 grant funding is no longer available and/or if the Sheriff is unable to complete the additional eight (8) hours per week of Operation Stonegarden 2023 grant work, and that at such time the Operation Stonegarden 2024 grant funding is no longer available and/or if the Sheriff is unable to complete the additional eight (8) hours per week of Operation Stonegarden 2024 grant work, the Sheriff’s salary shall return to the original balance set by the board on December 17, 2024 in addition to the accumulated Stonegarden wages earned based on Stonegarden funding available and actual hours worked.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to set a work session for November 12,2025 following the regular board meeting.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 10:43 a.m.

Attest: Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson

November 12, 2025

Chair Jon Waibel

October 14, 2025

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday,  September 23,2025 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Temporary Part-time Office Assistant-Attorney’s Office, Credit Card Bank Change Approval, 2024 Stonegarden Grant, Permission to Hire, Health Insurance Caps, Tobin Fisheries.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of September 23,2025.

Hoffman, Philipp, & Martell, PLLC

Audit Exit Review

Colleen Hoffman, Marit Martell, and Crystal Philipp from Hoffman, Philipp, & Martell, PLLC provided an audit exit review to the County Board of Commissioners.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $12,340.99; Commissioners Warrants $3,288.89; Commissioners Warrants $28,546.24.

Superintendent Scott Fitzsimonds

Introduction & Updates

Superintendent Scott Fitzmonds introduced himself to the board and gave an update on activities at the school and the upcoming referendum on November 4, 2025.

Veterans Services Officer

Veterans Services Officer Rick Rone gave an annual update to the board regarding veterans services in the area.

Public Works

County Road Safety Plan

Resolution

The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following:

Minnesota Department of Transportation

Federal Participation in County Road Safety Plan

Contract No. 1059814

RESOLUTION 2025-10-01

BE IT RESOLVED, that pursuant to Minnesota Stat. Sec. 161.36, the Commissioner of Transportation be appointed as Agent of  Lake of the Woods County to accept as its agent, federal aid funds which may be made available for eligible transportation related projects.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Lake of the Woods County Board Chairman and the County Auditor-Treasurer are hereby authorized and directed for and on behalf of Lake of the Woods County to execute and enter into an agreement with the Commissioner of Transportation prescribing the terms and conditions of said federal aid participation as set forth and contained in “Minnesota Department of Transportation MnDOT Contract Number 1059814“,  a copy of which said agreement was before the Lake of the Woods County Board and which is made a part hereof by reference.

MPCA Recycling Grant Resolution

Resolution

The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following:

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

Fiscal Year 2023 Grant Program

Authorization Resolution

RESOLUTION 2025-10-02

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County has applied for a grant from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), under its FY2026 Greater MN Recycling and Composting Grant Program and;

WHEREAS, if MPCA funding is received, Lake of the Woods County is committed to implementing the proposed project as described in the grant application and;

WHEREAS, MPCA requires that Lake of the Woods County enter into a grant agreement with the MPCA that identifies the terms and conditions of the funding award;

BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Lake of the Woods County Board hereby agrees to enter into and sign a grant agreement with the MPCA to carry out the project specified therein and to comply with all of the terms, conditions, and matching provisions of the grant agreement and authorizes and directs Lake of the Woods County Board Chair to sign the grant agreement on its behalf.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $154,929.02; Road & Bridge $206,374.50; County Development $150.00; Joint Ditch $5,708.50; Solid Waste $251,256.29; EDA $2,098.63.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 10/14/2025 For Payment 10/17/2025

Vendor Name Amount

Auto Value Baudette 2,248.17
BAYCOM, INC.           17,352.00 
Bolton & Menk           14,922.00 
ByteSpeed, LLC 4,300.00 
Christofferson/David 2,600.00 
Clay County Sheriff             3,018.19 
Co-Op Services, Inc. 6,407.14 
Cossette Electric LLC 6,175.00 
Farmers Union Oil company 2,798.61 
Gamache/Micheal D             8,422.50
Guardian Fleet Safety               32,672.68 
Integris LLC 2,166.52
Interstate Engineering Inc 5,222.50 
Johnson/Weston           28,200.00 
KC TECH LLC             2,925.00 
Lake of the Woods Electric LLC 6,400.00 
Lavalla Sand & Gravel Inc         104,000.00 
Law Offices Of Patrick D. Moren          12,170.66 
LOW Highway Dept         139,304.84 
Mar-Kit Landfill           17,493.75 
Marco Technologies LLC             2,328.69
Northdale Oil Inc.           37,166.98 
Nutrien Ag Solutions Inc           26,846.85 
Olson Construction Bdt LLC           13,875.00 
Pennington County Sheriff Office         15,963.59 
Pomp’s Tire-Thief River Falls 4,548.50 
Quadient Finance USA Inc.             3,000.00 
R & Q Trucking, Inc             3,480.00 
Sandpieper Design Inc. 2,098.63
Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc             5,063.84 
Smith/Evan V.             2,080.00 
Up North Electric LLC           12,213.26 
Verus LLC                           2,646.75 
Ziegler, Inc           27,042.84 
76 Payments less than 2000 43,362.45

Final Total: 620,516.94           

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: September 24, 2025 for $10,580.84; October 1, 2025 for $818,385.04; October 7, 2025 for $37,025.49; October 9, 2025 for $359,649.86; October 8, 2025 ($3,471.14).

Lost Warrant Affidavit

Motion

Motion was made Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the affidavit of lost warrant number 103472 in the amount of $514.50.

HCSP Renewal

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to renew the HCSP contract as presented by County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson effective January 1, 2026.

Credit Card Bank Change Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the request to change county credit cards from Wells Fargo Bank to Border Bank.

Permission to Hire-Deputy Auditor-Treasurer Fiscal Officer

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the request to hire Julie Berggren as Deputy Auditor-Treasurer-Fiscal Officer at Grade 15, Step 5, $32.72 per hour at 336 points effective October 13, 2025.

Tobin Fisheries

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to extend the offer for Tobin Fisheries for 30 days and for County Engineer Anthony Pirkl and County Attorney Michelle Moren to draft a letter for the offer.

Temporary Part-time Office Assistant-Attorney’s Office

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to hire Diane Roseen as Temporary Part-time Office Assistant for the Attorney’s office at $33.43 per hour plus IRS mileage rate effective October 24, 2025.

Land & Water

Consideration of Interim Use Permit #25-08IU by William Jackson and Stephanie Stavig

Lot 5, Block 3 and Lot 8, Block 2, River Oaks Plat, Section One (1), Township One Hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West (Wabanica)- Parcel ID#23.52.03.050 and 23.52.02.080. Applicant is requesting an Interim Use Permit as required by Section 1106 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Zoning District (R1).

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the following IUP/Findings of Fact #25-08IU by William Jackson & Stephanie Stavig to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Zoning District (R1) with the following conditions:

1. The interim use permit terminates five (5) years from the date of approval or upon sale or transfer of the property, whichever occurs first.
2. The maximum occupancy is limited to six (6) individuals.
3. The established quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
4. A valid Certificate of Compliance for the septic system is required.
5. No on-street parking is allowed.
6. If applicable, the applicant must meet the Minnesota Department of Health requirements.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Short-Term Vacation Rental Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  William Jackson & Stephanie Stavig   Application Number:  25-08IU   Date:  October 14, 2025

Location/Legal Description:  Lot 5, Block 3, and  Lot 8, Block 2, River Oaks Plat, Section 1, T. 161N, R. 32 W                                   

Parcel Number:  23.52.03.050 and 23.52.02.080

Project Proposal:  Applicants are 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 Zoning District (R1).

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

Explain?  Property is located in the growth corridor.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  Applicants have met the criteria based upon the submitted application.

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

Explain?  Residential.

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

Explain?  Oak Loop Northwest is an existing public roadway.

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

Explain?  No change in traffic. If additional parking is required for trucks and trailers, the backlot will be utilized as to avoid parking on Oak Loop Northwest.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  As per the submitted application.

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

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

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

Explain?  The application states a maximum of six (6) people. 

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

Explain?  The septic system has a valid Certificate of Compliance and is sized for a 3-bedroom dwelling.

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

Explain?  The established quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 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?  No need for fencing and/or screening.

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 six (6) individuals.
3. The established quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
4. A valid Certificate of Compliance for the septic system is required.
5. No on-street parking is allowed.
6. If applicable, the applicant must meet the Minnesota Department of Health requirements.

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

Date: October 14, 2025 Chair, County Board: Jon Waibel

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

Sheriff

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to set a work session for Law Enforcement for October 28, 2025 following the regular board meeting.

Bank Signature Card

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the request to remove Julie Berggren from account number ending in 6468 and add County Sheriff Gary Fish to the account at National Bank of Commerce.

Approval to Adjust Huber Fees

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the request to adjust huber fees from $15.00 to $25.00 effective immediately.

Permission to Sell Vehicles and Equipment by Sealed Bid

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the request to sell 3 squads, 3 boat motors, and a generator by sealed bid from the Sheriffs Department.

2024 Stonegarden Grant Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the 2024 Stonegarden grant in the amount of $108,900.00.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner, seconded by Commissioner and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 11:00 a.m.

Attest: Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson

October 28, 2025, Chair Jon Waibel

COMMISSIONER PROCEEDINGS

October 22, 2024

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: County Surveyor Contract, and Closed Session.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of October 8, 2024.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $2,434.11; Commissioners Warrants $1,988.02; Commissioners Warrants $33,345.09.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $113,400.52; Road & Bridge $57,769.43; Joint Ditch $2,282.50; Solid Waste $15,496.20; EDA $1,339.41.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 10/22/2024 For Payment 10/25/2024

Vendor Name Amount

Co-Op Services, Inc. 10,114.02 

Counties Providing Technology   4,327.00 

Dentons Dirt Worx, LLC 19,586.79 

Election Systems & Software, Inc   4,167.03 

HDR Engineering Inc   2,282.50 

Houston Engineering Inc 14,224.00 

Integris LLC   4,111.28 

John Deere Financial   3,374.38 

Johnson Auto & Machine   2,085.60 

Liberty Tire Recycling, LLC     6,193.67 

M & J Construction Of Holt, Inc. 14,374.50 

North Country Chevrolet 50,896.28 

Pennington County Sheriff Office   2,497.07 

SeaChange Print Innovations   2,180.20 

Titan Machinery – Roseau   3,536.58 

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance   6,268.50 

University Of Mn 15,121.50 

45 Payments less than 2000 24,947.16

Final Total: 190,288.06

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: October 10, 2024 for $61,844.98; October 16, 2024 for $290,332.84.

Extension Committee Term Increase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to increase the extension committee terms from two 3-year terms to unlimited terms.

Correspondence

The board reviewed Correspondence from AMC.

Human Resources

Permission to Advertise, Interview Full-Time Deputy Sheriff

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise, interview, and hire a full-time deputy sheriff at Grade 15, 323 points.

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects.

County Surveyor Contract Discussion

RFP County Surveyor

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve to go out for RFP for a County Surveyor for the year 2025.

RFP Committee

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to appoint Commissioners Joe Grund and Jon Waibel, County Engineer Anthony Pirkl, County Recorder Sue Ney, and Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund to the RFP Committee.

Guardian Flight

Manager of Strategic Partnerships Wes McAden gave an update to the board and answered questions regarding guardian flight services and costs.

Cleveland-Cliffs Natural Resources

Representatives from Cleveland Cliffs Natural Resources came to the board seeking approval of the settlement agreement on Williams Creek to present to the DNR. No action was taken at this time.

Public Hearing

Motion

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

Amendment to Lodging Tax Ordinance

County Attorney Michelle Moren explained that the ordinance had been amended to reflect recent law changes. No questions or comments were presented.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the public hearing and open the regular meeting.

Approval of Amendment to Lodging Tax Ordinance

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the amended lodging tax ordinance.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 10:05 a.m. and reconvened at 10:10 a.m.

Northwest Community Action-Grant Application Update

John Wynne and Diane Hayes came to the board to give an update on the application process for a small housing rehabilitation grant.

Cannabis Business Ordinance

County Attorney Michelle Moren, Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund and the Commissioners reviewed the Cannabis Business Ordinance. The Ordinance Committee will meet and review the draft to present to the board at a later date. No action was taken at this time.

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. 2024-10-4

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:

1. 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

2. 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 Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to close the closed session and open the regular meeting.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the settlement agreement as presented and for chair Cody Hasbargen to sign the same with a recommendation for the SWCD to approve as well. It was also noted that Commissioner Ed Arnesen and Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund will meet and work with Cliffs and the DNR on this project. 

Closed Session

Resolution

The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the following:

Resolution Closing Board Meeting

Resolution No. 2024-10-5

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 was served on March 20, 2024 with a United States District Court Summons and Complaint dated March 14, 2024, signed by Gregory M. Erickson, attorney for  Plaintiffs Jennifer Audette and Robert Audette, alleging that Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners violated, inter alia, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and, requesting, inter alia, that the court require the County to remedy the alleged ADA violation and award damages; and   

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board seeks to meet with its attorney, to discuss the pending lawsuit; 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 pending lawsuit 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 status of the litigation and strategies to maintain the attorney-client privilege.

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

1. 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

2. The specific subjects to be discussed, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.01, subd. 3, are the legal strategies and potential settlement position regarding the pending United States District Court action. 

Adopted by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota this 22^nd day of October, 2024. 

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.

Closed Session

Resolution

The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the following:

Resolution Closing Board Meeting

Resolution No. 2024-10-6

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 received correspondence from Canadian National Railway Company dated October 18, 2024 threatening litigation regarding solid waste tax assessments; and   

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board seeks to meet with its attorney, to discuss the threatened litigation; 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 threatened litigation 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 threatened litigation in order to maintain the attorney-client privilege.

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

1. 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

2. The specific subjects to be discussed, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.01, subd. 3, are the allegations and responses to the threatened litigation by Canadian National Railway Company. 

Adopted by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota this 22^nd day of October, 2024. 

Motion

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

Closed Session

Resolution

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

Closed Session-Union Negotiation

RESOLUTION NO. 24-10-7

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Open Meeting Law, Minn. Stat. § 13D.03, subd. 1 states that:

 “The governing body of a public employer may by a majority vote in a public meeting decide to hold a closed meeting to consider strategy for labor negotiations, including negotiation strategies or developments or discussions and review of labor negotiation proposals, conducted pursuant to sections 179A.01 to 179A.25.”

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners shall hold a closed meeting on October 22^nd , 2024 at 12:00 PM to consider strategy for labor negotiations.  The closed session shall be held at the Lake of the Woods County Courthouse, Commissioners’ Room, 206 8th Ave. SE, Suite 234, Baudette Minnesota 56623; and

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

1. The Board of Commissioners hereby closes this meeting pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.03, subd. 1 to consider strategy for labor negotiations including negotiation strategies or developments or discussion and review of Labor negotiation proposals, conducted pursuant to sections 179A.01 to 179A.25.

2. This closed session shall be tape recorded at the expense of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners and said recording shall be preserved for two years after the contract is signed and shall be made available to the public after all labor contracts are signed by the governing body for the current budget period.  

Motion

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

Closed Session

Resolution

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

Closed Session-Union Negotiation

RESOLUTION NO. 24-10-8

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Open Meeting Law, Minn. Stat. § 13D.03, subd. 1 states that:

 “The governing body of a public employer may by a majority vote in a public meeting decide to hold a closed meeting to consider strategy for labor negotiations, including negotiation strategies or developments or discussions and review of labor negotiation proposals, conducted pursuant to sections 179A.01 to 179A.25.”

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners shall hold a closed meeting on October 22^nd , 2024 at 12:30 PM to consider strategy for labor negotiations.  The closed session shall be held at the Lake of the Woods County Courthouse, Commissioners’ Room, 206 8th Ave. SE, Suite 234, Baudette Minnesota 56623; and

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

1. The Board of Commissioners hereby closes this meeting pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.03, subd. 1 to consider strategy for labor negotiations including negotiation strategies or developments or discussion and review of Labor negotiation proposals, conducted pursuant to sections 179A.01 to 179A.25.
2. This closed session shall be tape recorded at the expense of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners and said recording shall be preserved for two years after the contract is signed and shall be made available to the public after all labor contracts are signed by the governing body for the current budget period.  

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the closed session and open the regular meeting.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 1:10 p.m. 

Attest: November 12, 2024

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Cody Hasbargen

  COMMISSIONER PROCEEDINGS

October 8, 2024

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Abatement Approval, Assessor Re-appointment, Certified Wetland Determination, Gambling Permit, and Closed Session.

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 September 24, 2024 with changes.

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 $10,313.07; Commissioners Warrants $3,259.50; Commissioners Warrants $43,340.49.

Residential Treatment Screening Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the Residential Treatment Screening contract between Lake of the Woods County and Beyond Breaking Barriers, LLC. and for Chair Cody Hasbargen and Social Services Director Amy Ballard to sign the same.

Children’s Mental Health Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Children’s Mental Health contract between the State of Minnesota Human Services, Behavioral Health Administration and Lake of the Woods County.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $55,526.49; Road & Bridge $905,677.57; County Development $200.00; Natl Resc Enhanc $881.00; Joint Ditch $2,830.00; Solid Waste $28,773.66.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 10/08/2024 For Payment 10/11/2024

Vendor Name Amount

Howard’s Oil Company 4,779.56

Integris LLC 6,835.06 

KC TECH LLC 2,925.00 

Lake Superior College 4,075.00 

Lavalla Sand & Gravel Inc           856,500.00 

Law Offices Of Patrick D. Moren 9,065.73 

LOW Highway Dept 5,291.65 

Mar-Kit Landfill                         14,043.50

 Pomp’s Tire-Thief River Falls 6,415.28 

Powerplan 9,336.65 

Quadient Finance USA Inc. 2,000.00 

R & Q Trucking, Inc 5,568.00 

SeaChange Print Innovations 7,174.27 

Sir Lines-A-Lot, LLC             18,480.72 

Summit Fire Protection 2,175.00 

Wikstrom Telephone Co.,Inc 6,570.90 

47 Payments less than 2000 32,652.40

Final Total: 993,888.72

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: September 25, 2024 for $11,226.49; October 2, 2024 for $61,296.60; October 3, 2025 for $258,597.41.

Revenue & Expense Guidelines

County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson gave the board a copy of the January-September 2024 Revenue and Expense guidelines for their review.

Gambling Permit-Youth Hockey

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the gambling permit application from Lake of the Woods Youth Hockey.

Assessors

Local Option Disaster Abatement and Credit

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the application for local option disaster abatement of payable 2024 taxes and a credit for payable 2025 taxes for parcel number 31.07.11.010.

Re-appointment of County Assessor

Resolution

The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and moved for adoption: 

A RESOLUTION APPOINTMENT OF COUNTY ASSESSOR

Resolution No. 2024-10-01

WHEREAS, the County Assessor position is appointed and/or reappointed every four (4) years pursuant MN Statute 273.061, Subd 2; 

BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners does hereby approve the appointment of Alisa Jacobsen for the term of January 01, 2025 through December 31, 2028; 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners recommends that the Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Revenue (DOR) confirm this reappointment. 

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

Human Resources

Permission to Hire Office Support Specialist

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to hire Office Support Specialist Val Canfield at Grade 9, Step 1, $20.64 per hour at 222 points effective October 21, 2024.

Flu Shot Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve public health to administer flu shots in the Government Center Courtroom on October 8, 2024 from 12:30p.m.-2:30p.m. 

Emergency Management

LEAST Services Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the LEAST services contract between Lake of the Woods County and LEAST Services/Counseling LLC for the year 2025 and to be paid for out of the social services fund.

Land & Water

Consideration of Interim Use Permit #24-05-IU by Brian Erickson

Lot five (5) Boyd Addition, Sections One (1) and Six (6), Township One hundred Sixty-one (161) North, Range Thirty-two (32) and Thirty-one (31) West, respectively- Parcel ID#23.54.00.000. Applicant is requesting an Interim Use Permit as required by Section 1106 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Development Zoning District (R1). The Rainy River is an Agricultural River Segment.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the following Interim Use Permit/Findings of Fact #24-05IU by Brian Erickson to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential Development Zoning District (R1) with the following conditions:

1. The interim use permit terminate 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 four (4) individuals.
3. The established quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.
4. A valid Certificate of Compliance for the septic system is required.
5. No on-street parking is allowed.
6. If applicable, the applicant must meet the Minnesota Department of Health requirements.
7. Local contact person and emergency numbers must be posted in the dwelling.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Short-Term Vacation Rental Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Brian Erickson Date:  October 8, 2024

Location/Legal Description:  Lot Five (5), Boyd Addition Parcel Number:  23.54.00.050

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 (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?  Resort area and property is located in the growth corridor.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  Applicant has met the criteria based upon the submitted application. 

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

Explain?  Residential.

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

Explain?  Public road, Stanton Drive.

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

Explain?  No change.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  As per submitted application.

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

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

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

Explain?  The maximum number of occupants is limited to four (4) individuals.

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

Explain?  The septic system has a valid Certificate of Compliance and is sized for a 2-bedroom dwelling.

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

Explain?  The established quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 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 (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

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?  No need for fencing and/or screening.

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 four (4) individuals.
3. The established quiet hours are from 10:00 pm to 8:00 am.
4. A valid Certificate of Compliance for the septic system is required.
5. No on-street parking is allowed.
6. If applicable, the applicant must meet the Minnesota Department of Health requirements.
7. Local contact person and emergency numbers must be posted in the dwelling.

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

October 8, 2024 _____________________________________

Date Cody Hasbargen

Chair, County Board

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #24-04CU by Lyle and Pauline Longtin

That part of Government Lot Three (3), Section Five (5), Township One hundred Sixty-three (163) North, Range Thirty-four (34) West- Parcel ID#14.05.31.040. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to move more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of repair/replacement of existing rock rip rap. Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake.

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following Conditional Use Permit/Findings of Fact #24-04CU by Lyle and Pauline Longtin to move more than ten (10) cubic yards of material withing the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of repair/replacement of existing rock rip rap with the following conditions.

1. Applicant is to follow DNR guidance document titled “Shoreline Alterations: Riprap”.
2. If applicant does not meet the Guidance document specifications for installation of riprap, applicant must obtain a DNR Public Waters Work Permit.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Lyle and Pauline Longtin Date:  October 8, 2024

Location/Legal Description:  That part of Government Lot 3, Section 5, Township 163N, Range 34W – Parcel ID#14.05.31.040.

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to move more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of repair/replacement of existing rock rip rap.

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

Why or why not?  Shoreline management.

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 (  )  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 (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not?  Shoreline protection.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Lake of the Woods.

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

12. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

14. If the project proposal includes above ground or below ground storage tanks for petroleum or other hazardous material that is subject to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) requirements, has a permit been sought? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

16. If signage is associated with the project proposal, has the applicant demonstrated the need for the number and size requested, and minimized the visual appearance as viewed from adjacent properties to the extent possible?  YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________

17. If the project proposal will generate additional traffic to or from the site, has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the additional traffic and parking is to be addressed? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

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

1. Applicant is to follow DNR Guidance document titled “Shoreline Alterations:  Riprap”.
2. If applicant does not meet the Guidance document specifications for installation of riprap, applicant must obtain a DNR Public Waters Work Permit.

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

        October 8, 2024 _____________________________________

Date Cody Hasbargen

        Chair, County Board

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #24-05CU by Rocky Point Cabin, LLC

That part of Government lot Three (3), Section Five (5), Township one hundred and Sixty-three (163) North, Range Thirty-four (34) West- Parcel ID#14.05.31.030. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to move more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of repair/replacement of existing rock rip rap. Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following Conditional Use Permit/Findings of Fact #24-05CU by Rocky Point Cabin, LLC to move more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of repair/replacement of existing rock rip rap with the following conditions:

1. Applicant is to follow DNR guidance document titled “Shoreline Alterations: Riprap”.
2. If applicant does not meet the Guidance document specifications for installation of riprap, applicant must obtain a DNR Public Waters Work Permit.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Rocky Point Cabin, LLC %Brett Longtin Date:  October 8, 2024

Location/Legal Description:  That part of Government Lot 3, Section 5, Township 163N, Range 34W – Parcel ID#14.05.31.030.

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to move more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of repair/replacement of existing rock rip rap.

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

Why or why not?  Shoreline management.

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 (  )  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 (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not?  Shoreline protection.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Lake of the Woods.

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

12. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

14. If the project proposal includes above ground or below ground storage tanks for petroleum or other hazardous material that is subject to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) requirements, has a permit been sought? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

16. If signage is associated with the project proposal, has the applicant demonstrated the need for the number and size requested, and minimized the visual appearance as viewed from adjacent properties to the extent possible?  YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________

17. If the project proposal will generate additional traffic to or from the site, has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the additional traffic and parking is to be addressed? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

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

1. Applicant is to follow DNR Guidance document titled “Shoreline Alterations:  Riprap”.
2. If applicant does not meet the Guidance document specifications for installation of riprap, applicant must obtain a DNR Public Waters Work Permit.

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

        October 8, 2024 _____________________________________

Date Cody Hasbargen

        Chair, County Board

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #24-07CU By Wolverton Creek Outfitters, LLC

A tract in Government Lot 5, Section Thirty-four (34), Township One hundred Sixty-eight (168) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West-Parcel ID#03.34.32.015. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to move more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of constructing a rock rip rap project. Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake.

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 #24-07CU by Wolverton Creek Outfitters, LLC to move more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of constructing a rock rip rap project with the following conditions: 

1. Applicant is to follow DNR guidance document titled “Shoreline Alterations: Riprap”.
2. If applicant does not meet the Guidance document specifications for installation of riprap, applicant must obtain a DNR Public Waters Work Permit.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Wolverton Creek Outfitters, LLC Date:  October 8, 2024

Location/Legal Description:  That part of Government Lot 5, Section 34, Township 168N, Range 33W – Parcel ID#03.34.32.015.

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to move more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of repair/replacement of existing rock rip rap.

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

Why or why not?  Shoreline management.

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 (  )  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 (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not?  Shoreline protection.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Lake of the Woods.

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

12. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

14. If the project proposal includes above ground or below ground storage tanks for petroleum or other hazardous material that is subject to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) requirements, has a permit been sought? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

16. If signage is associated with the project proposal, has the applicant demonstrated the need for the number and size requested, and minimized the visual appearance as viewed from adjacent properties to the extent possible?  YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________

17. If the project proposal will generate additional traffic to or from the site, has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the additional traffic and parking is to be addressed? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

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

1. Applicant is to follow DNR Guidance document titled “Shoreline Alterations:  Riprap”.
2. If applicant does not meet the Guidance document specifications for installation of riprap, applicant must obtain a DNR Public Waters Work Permit.

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

October 8, 2024 _____________________________________

Date Cody Hasbargen

Chair, County Board

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects.

Hooper Creek Road Acceptance

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously with Commissioner Jon Waibel abstaining to accept Hooper Creek Loop within Section 18, T-161 N, R-31 Was Unorganized Township Road No. 217, and acknowledge that said road has been constructed to minimum unorganized township road standards.  The road is approximately 3,194 feet in length (0.60 miles) and shall be classified at maintenance level “A”.

Wetland Determination

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the certified wetland determination of three agricultural parcels and for Chair Cody Hasbargen to sign the same.

Closed Session

Resolution

The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the following:

Closed Session-Union Negotiation

RESOLUTION NO. 24-10-02

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Open Meeting Law, Minn. Stat. § 13D.03, subd. 1 states that:

 “The governing body of a public employer may by a majority vote in a public meeting decide to hold a closed meeting to consider strategy for labor negotiations, including negotiation strategies or developments or discussions and review of labor negotiation proposals, conducted pursuant to sections 179A.01 to 179A.25.”

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners shall hold a closed meeting on September 24^th, 2024 at 11:30 AM to consider strategy for labor negotiations.  The closed session shall be held at the Lake of the Woods County Courthouse, Commissioners’ Room, 206 8th Ave. SE, Suite 234, Baudette Minnesota 56623; and

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

1. The Board of Commissioners hereby closes this meeting pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.03, subd. 1 to consider strategy for labor negotiations including negotiation strategies or developments or discussion and review of Labor negotiation proposals, conducted pursuant to sections 179A.01 to 179A.25.

This closed session shall be tape recorded at the expense of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners and said recording shall be preserved for two years after the contract is signed and shall be made available to the public after all labor contracts are signed by the governing body for the current budget period.

Motion

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

Recess

A brief recess took place at 10:15 a.m. and reconvened at 10:30 a.m. at the site of the public hearing.

Public Hearing-Public Road Easement Vacation

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the public hearing at the site of the public road easement. Present at the meeting: Commissioners: Cody Hasbargen, Joe Grund, Ed Arnesen, Jon Waibel and Buck Nordlof. Also present was: Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson, County Engineer Anthony Pirkl, Marty Mollberg, and Woody Fiala.

Public Road Easement Vacation

The board reviewed documentation provided by Marty Mollberg and viewed the public road easement requested for vacation.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the public hearing and open the regular board meeting.

Resolution to Approve the Public Road Easement Vacation

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried and moved for adoption:

RESOLUTION VACATING A PUBLIC ROAD EASEMENT  

WALHALLA TOWNSHIP (UNORGANIZED) 

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY

  Resolution No. 24-10-03

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board, acting as the Town Board of unorganized Walhalla Township, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota received a petition calling for the vacation of the following described public road easement pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 164.07:

The S1/2SE1/4 of Section 10, T-160-N, R- 32-W EXCLUDING; The southerly 65 feet of the SW1/4SE1/4 of Section 10, T-160-N, R- 32-W and also, The southerly 65 feet of the westerly 585 feet of the SE1/4SE1/4 of Section 10, T-160-N, R- 32-W and also, The southerly 90 feet of the easterly 540 feet of the westerly 1125 feet of the SE1/4SE1/4 of Section 10, T-160-N, R- 32-W and also, That land laying southerly and easterly of the described line:  Beginning at a point 1125 feet east and 90 feet north of the SW corner of the SE1/4SE1/4 of Section 10, T-160-N, R- 32-W, thence northeasterly bearing N 43°54’ E for approximately 175 feet, to a point 78 feet west and 212 feet north of the SE corner of Section 10, T-160-N, R- 32-W and also, The easterly 78 feet of the northerly 578 feet of the southerly 790 feet of the SE1/4SE1/4 of Section 10, T-160-N, R- 32-W and also, The easterly 65 feet of the northerly 551 feet of the SE1/4SE1/4 of Section 10, T-160-N, R- 32-W

WHEREAS, said petition was signed by not less than eight voters of the town who own real estate, or occupy real estate under the homestead or preemption laws or under contract with the state, within three miles of the road;

WHEREAS, the road passes over the following described tract of land in Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota, owned by the following named owner:

Marty Mollberg, Parcel ID# 29.1044.000; SE1/4 SE1/4, Section 10, Township 160, Range 32

WHEREAS, the County Board conducted a public hearing on the petition on the 8^th day of October, 2024, after personal and posted notice provided by the petitioners pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 164.07, subd. 2, and published notice provided by the County Board;

WHEREAS, the petitioners presented the Board with affidavits at the hearing as proof that the required notice was given;

WHEREAS, the County Board examined the public road easement, heard the interested parties, and considered the matter;

WHEREAS, the County Board determined that the petitioned for action is consistent with the public interest;

WHEREAS, the County Board has examined the ditches lateral to the road and determined that said ditches are essential for surface drainage of adjacent lands or highways in support of the general health and welfare of the public;

WHEREAS, the Owner listed in Appendix A has released in writing all claims for damages from such vacation;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the County Board, acting as the Town Board of unorganized Walhalla Township, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota hereby vacates a town public road easement legally described as follows:

The S1/2SE1/4 of Section 10, T-160-N, R- 32-W EXCLUDING; The southerly 65 feet of the SW1/4SE1/4 of Section 10, T-160-N, R- 32-W and also, The southerly 65 feet of the westerly 585 feet of the SE1/4SE1/4 of Section 10, T-160-N, R- 32-W and also, The southerly 90 feet of the easterly 540 feet of the westerly 1125 feet of the SE1/4SE1/4 of Section 10, T-160-N, R- 32-W and also, That land laying southerly and easterly of the described line:  Beginning at a point 1125 feet east and 90 feet north of the SW corner of the SE1/4SE1/4 of Section 10, T-160-N, R- 32-W, thence northeasterly bearing N 43°54’ E for approximately 175 feet, to a point 78 feet west and 212 feet north of the SE corner of Section 10, T-160-N, R- 32-W and also, The easterly 78 feet of the northerly 578 feet of the southerly 790 feet of the SE1/4SE1/4 of Section 10, T-160-N, R- 32-W and also, The easterly 65 feet of the northerly 551 feet of the SE1/4SE1/4 of Section 10, T-160-N, R- 32-W

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board does hereby preserve all rights and interests in the ditches lateral to the road as provided in Minn. Stat. § 164.07, subd. 3a and retains the rights to access the adjacent properties as needed to maintain said ditches;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board Chair and Auditor/Treasurer are hereby authorized and directed to execute and record a town road order vacating said town public road easement and to record the same with the County Recorder of Lake of the Woods County;

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Auditor/Treasurer is authorized and directed to provide a copy of this resolution to each of the affected owners listed above.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at the site of the public hearing at 10:40 a.m. 

Attest: October 22, 2024

______________________________ _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Cody Hasbargen

October 24, 2023

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on October 24, 2023 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changed: Add: Permission to Sign Closing Documents. Remove: Hoffman, Phillipp, & Martell, PLLC Audit Exit Review.

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 October 10, 2023.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $5,369.60; Commissioners Warrants $1,152.01; Commissioners Warrants $6,473.27.

2024 MFIP Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the 2024 Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) Purchase of Services Contract.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $102,989.46; Road & Bridge $162,103.81; County Development $950.00; Joint Ditch $10,900.00; Solid Waste $17,597.43; EDA $1,108.41; Tourism $65,030.89.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 10/24/2023 For Payment 10/27/2023

Vendor Name Amount

Baudette/City Of 32,100.00

Braun Intertec Corporation 12,581.75

Cenex Co-Op Services, Inc. 8,088.55

Counties Providing Technology 4,204.00

Dentons Dirt Worx, LLC 17,304.50

Dodge of Burnsville Inc 78,318.00

Erickson Engineering Company, LLC 5,117.00

Gamache/Micheal D 9,900.00

John Deere Financial 2,118.80

Lake Superior College 3,150.00

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 11,725.00

LaValla Electric DBA/Ned 6,746.24

LOW Area Tourism Bureau 32,930.89

Mn Dept Of Transp 5,864.63

Motorola Solutions, Inc 7,094.88

North East Technical Service,Inc 9,362.07

Northwest Mn Multi-County Hra 40,000.00

Outdoors Again 2,072.95

Team Lab 35,406.25

Titan Machinery – Roseau 2,227.25

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50

Wex Bank 2,678.14

40 Payments less than 2000 25,420.60

Final Total: 360,680.00

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: October 11, 2023 for $41,097.65; October 18, 2023 for $88,544.58

Approval of the State of Minnesota Special Law Authorization

Resolution

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

COUNTY OF LAKE OF THE WOODS

RESOLUTION NO. 23-10-03

A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE STATE OF MINNESOTA SPECIAL LAW AUTHORIZING LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY LODGING TAX

WHEREAS, on May 21, 2023 the Minnesota Senate approved Finance HF Bill1938 (“Special Law”) authorizing a special Lake of the Woods County lodging tax.

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

WHEREAS, said Special Law authorizes:

the Board of Commissioners of Lake of the Woods County to impose, by ordinance, a tax of up to 3% on gross receipts in Lake of the Woods County subject to the lodging tax provisions under Minnesota statute section 469.190;

the provisions of paragraph(a) do not apply to any statutory or home rule city or town located in Lake of the Woods County that imposes a lodging tax under Minnesota Statutes, section 469.190, or the city of Baudette. The total tax imposed under Minnesota Statutes, section 469.190, and this section must not exceed 3%.

To the extent not inconsistent with Minnesota Statutes, section 469.190, this section is governed by Minnesota Statutes, section 469.190.

Revenues derived from taxes imposed under this section must be used to fund a new Lake of the Woods County Event and Visitors Bureau, as established by the Board of Commissioners of Lake of the Woods County, for purposes of marketing Lake of the Woods County. The Board of Commissioners must annually review the budget of the Event and Visitors Bureau. The Event and Visitors Bureau may receive revenues raised from the taxes imposed under the section only upon annual approval by the Board of Commissioners of the Event and Visitors Bureau budget.

EFFECTIVE DATE: this section is effective the day after the governing body of Lake of the Woods County and its chief clerical officer comply with Minnesota Statutes, section 645.021, subdivisions two and three. 

WHEREAS, at a regular Board meeting held on October 24th 2023, the Board of Commissioners of Lake of the Woods County reviewed and discussed the Special Law.

WHEREAS,  following discussion and by unanimous vote of all of the members of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, the Special Law was approved.

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

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

By unanimous vote, the Board of Commissioners of Lake of the Woods County accepts and approves the Special Law (HF 1938) which was approved by the Governor on May 24th 2023.

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

Adopted by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota this 24^th day of October, 2023. 

Approval of Insurance Rates

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve a $25.00 health insurance single and family cap increase for 2024. 

AIRMED Guardian Flight Contract Renewal

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the renewal of the AirMed Contract Agreement for 2024.

Approval of Consulting Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the Consulting Services Contract between USI Consulting Services Inc. and Lake of the Woods County effective January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025.

Veterans Grant Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the State of Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs Grant in the amount of $7,500.00.

Approval to Sign Closing Documents-Land Purchase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the closing documents for the purchase of the Johnson property and for County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson and Chair Ed Arnesen to sign the same. 

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various road projects and gave a reminder for the upcoming Solid Waste meeting November 9, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.

Human Resources

Permission to Hire Part-Time Dispatch

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the re-hire of Amanda Peterson as part-time dispatch at Grade 11, Step 3, $23.22 per hour at 253 points effective after November 1, 2023.

Financial Assistance Supervisor Grade Increase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve a grade increase for Financial Assistance Supervisor Angie Eason from Grade 15, Step 12 to Grade 16, step 12 $35.97 per hour at 369 points.

Social Worker Supervisor Grade Increase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve a grade increase for the Social Worker Supervisor Jodi Ferrier from Grade 18, Step 9 to Grade 19, Step 9 $40.12 per hour at 443 points.

Approval to Advertise, Interview, & Hire- Appraiser

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to Advertise, Interview, & Hire for a full-time Appraiser.

Approval of Grade Increases for Appraiser

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve Grade Increases for Appraiser I, II, & III from Grades 11, 13, 14 to Grade 12 points 280, Grade 14 points 316, Grade 15 points 339.

Approval of Grade Increase for Appraiser Tyler Swanson

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve a grade increase for Appraiser II Tyler Swanson from Grade 13, Step 4 to Grade 14, Step 4 $27.77 per hour at 316 Points effective next pay period.

EDA Director Discussion

The board briefly discussed the recent vacancy of the EDA Director position.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 9:45 a.m. and reconvened at 9:50 a.m.

Ninth District Court

Request for Security Equipment

Court Administrator Pamela Shaw and Judge Dixon came to the board to request specific security equipment to be installed in the court room and court administration office.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the request for three panic buttons, frost/tint on windows, a monitor, and cameras to be paid for out of ARPA funds.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 10:22 and reconvened at 10:40a.m. 

Closed Session-Union Negotiations

Resolution

The following Resolution was offered by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following:

Closed Session-Union Negotiation

RESOLUTION NO. 23-10-03

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Open Meeting Law, Minn. Stat. § 13D.03, subd. 1 states that:

 “The governing body of a public employer may by a majority vote in a public meeting decide to hold a closed meeting to consider strategy for labor negotiations, including negotiation strategies or developments or discussions and review of labor negotiation proposals, conducted pursuant to sections 179A.01 to 179A.25.”

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners shall hold a closed meeting on October 24^th, 2023 at 10:40 AM to consider strategy for labor negotiations.  The closed session shall be held at the Lake of the Woods County Courthouse, Commissioners’ Room, 206 8th Ave. SE, Suite 234, Baudette Minnesota 56623; and

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

1. The Board of Commissioners hereby closes this meeting pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.03, subd. 1 to consider strategy for labor negotiations including negotiation strategies or developments or discussion and review of Labor negotiation proposals, conducted pursuant to sections 179A.01 to 179A.25.

2. This closed session shall be tape recorded at the expense of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners and said recording shall be preserved for two years after the contract is signed and shall be made available to the public after all labor contracts are signed by the governing body for the current budget period.

Motion to Close/Open

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the closed session Union Negotiations MN Statute 13D.03, Sub 1 and open the regular meeting.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 11:06a.m.

Attest: October 24, 2023

______________________________ _________________________________

County Auditor/Treasurer, Lorene Hanson Chair Ed Arnesen