December 30, 2025

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, December 30,2025 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: Jon Waibel, Ed Arnesen, Cody Hasbargen, Joe Grund, and Buck Nordlof. Also present was Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: PT Deputy Sheriff/Dispatch Position, Permission to Bid, Set Closed Session-Williams Creek, CHS Board Discussion.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of December 16,2025.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof  , seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen  and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $577.34; Commissioners Warrants $10,088.31; Commissioners Warrants $20,061.92.

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 $71,881.53; Road & Bridge $11,775.23; County Development $1000.00; Natural Resources Enhancement $712.50; Joint Ditch $27,715.00; Solid Waste $15,190.53.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 12/30/2025 For Payment 12/31/2025

Vendor Name Amount

American Solutions for Business 2,229.63 

Bolton & Menk 3,000.00

Hubbard County Highway Department 5,714.02 

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 19,338.00 

Northeast Technical Service, Inc 14,931.70 

Pb Distributing Inc 3,802.00 

Pennington County Sheriff Office 12,046.43 

Sjoberg’s Inc 2,668.00 

State Of Minnesota 6,000.00 

SW Farm Partnership             27,715.00 

37 Payments less than 2000 20,830.01 

Final Total: 128,274.79 

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: December 17, 2025 for $71,469.32; December 24, 2025 for $13,572.47.

Salaries

2026 Elected Officials & Non-Elected Department Heads Salaries

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund to adopt the following County Commissioners salaries schedule and County Board Chair salary schedule for the year 2026; and to adopt a committee meeting per diem of $135.00 for the year 2026.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Elected Officials – Commissioners:

Commissioners $ 26,000.00                      

Board Chair $ 27,000.00       

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof to adopt a Technology Fee of $50.00 per month for County Commissioners for the year 2026. (Technology fee reimbursement for county related phone, internet, computer and copy expenses.)  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and unanimously carried to approve the 2026 Salary Grade Table, with an increase of 4% to the 2025 Salary Grade Table. This table is to be used by all employees excluding employees under the Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc Unions – Licensed and Non-Licensed.

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and unanimously carried to approve the 2026 Salary Grade Table, with an increase of 3% to the 2025 Salary Grade Table. This table is to be used by all employees under the Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc Unions – Licensed and Non-Licensed.

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and unanimously carried to adopt the following Elected Officials salary schedule for the year 2026.  

Elected Officials – Department Heads:

Interim County Attorney $140,000.00 (plus mileage)

County Recorder $ 100,537.20

County Sheriff $113,733.36

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen to adopt the following Non-Elected Department Heads salary schedule for the year 2026.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Non-Elected – Department Heads:

Assessor Alisa Jacobsen $ 91,872.00

Aud/Treas Lorene Hanson $ 137,808.00

Land/Water Josh Stromlund $109,954.00

MIS Director John Butenhoff $120,206.16

Public Works Anthony Pirkl $147,099.60    

Social Service Amy Ballard $109,933.20

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund to adopt the following Non-Elected Department Heads salary schedule for the year 2026.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Non-Elected – Department Heads:

Human Resources Savanna Slick $43,054.56          

Veterans Service Rick Rone $32,217.84

Salary Adjustment, as agreed upon per Union Contract

Motion- Highway Union

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen to adjust all full time Highway Union employees’ salary by a 4% general adjustment and by 1 merit step, if applicable (not maxed), effective January 1, 2026.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Salary Adjustment, as agreed upon per Union Contract

Motion- Solid Waste Union

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund to adjust all full time Solid Waste Union employees’ salary by a 4% general adjustment and by 1 merit step, if applicable (not maxed), effective January 1, 2026.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Salary Adjustment, as agreed upon per Union Contract

Motion- Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc Union

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof  to adjust all Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc Union (Licensed and Non-Licensed) employees’ salary by 3% general adjustment and by 1 merit step, if applicable (not maxed), effective January 1, 2026.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

All County Employees (Full time/Permanent Part Time/Part Time/Seasonal Employees) Salary Adjustment (Excluding Elected and Non-Elected Department Heads, International Union of Operating Engineers Union Employees and Licensed and Non-Licensed Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc Union Employees) 

Motion- Non-Union

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen to adjust all non-union employees: full time, permanent part time, part time and seasonal (excluding elected and non-elected department heads) salaries by a 4% general adjustment and by 1 merit step, if applicable (not maxed), effective January 1, 2026.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Health Insurance/Health Care Savings Plan

Motion (motion made 10/14/2025)

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to set the 2026 county contribution for family health insurance up to $1480 per month and single health insurance up to $1130 per month.  The Public Employees Insurance Program “Advantage Plan” consists of “High” and “HSA” plans.  For the HSA plans only, any excess county contribution will be deposited directly into the employee’s health savings account, up to the IRS caps.  

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Habargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set the 2026 county contribution for family health insurance up to $1480 per month for all Highway Union and Solid Waste Union employees.  The International Union of Operating Engineers Local No 49 AFL-CIO health insurance consists of family coverage only.

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve that all PERA eligible Lake of the Woods County employees contribute two percent (2%) of their regular pay (no overtime) into their Health Care Savings Plan (HCSP); in addition, Lake of the Woods County, as employer, will contribute two percent (2%) of the employee’s regular pay (no overtime) to the same all PERA eligible Lake of the Woods County employees.

Motion to Pay Year End Bills

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the payment of year end bills on the Auditors list on December 31, 2025.

IRS Mileage Rate

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the 2026 Standard IRS Mileage rate for business miles at 72.5 cents per mile and 82.5 cents per mile for volunteer drivers for veterans.

Resolution for Year End Commitments 

Resolution 

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

RESOLUTION 

YEAR END COMMITMENT OF FUNDS 

RESOLUTION NO. 25-12-04 

WHEREAS, per Lake of the Woods County Fund Balance Policy, the County Board will annually or as deemed necessary commit specific revenue sources for specified purposed by resolution; 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Lake of the Woods County hereby commits the following reserves with the amounts to be determined at a later date: Building; Community Health; Elections; Health/Medical; Housing Rehabilitation; Land & Building Acquisitions; Sheriff’s Posse; Sheriff’s Vending Commission; Technology; Transit; Drainage Maintenance; Economic Development; Prepaid Fiber; SANE; Snowmobile Trails; Future Equipment, and Future Budget Expenditures; Borderland DUI Drug Court; Wetland Banks; Opioid Funds; USDA Funds; Day Care-Deed; Sewer; Blue Blades; Voter. 

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to adopt the following resolution:

Re-Appointment of Terms of the economic development authority

Resolution 25-12-05

Whereas Lake of the Woods County Board, pursuant to MN Statute §469.093, Subd.1 has provided a public notice and conducted a public hearing on September 14, 2010 to consider the creation of an Economic Development Authority and adopted the Enabling Resolution creating the same; and

Whereas the County Board of Commissioners of the County of Lake of the Woods adopted the following:

The EDA shall consist of a governing body of nine (9) members, as per the adopted Enabling Resolution, of which: Five (5) Sitting Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Four (4) Members shall be nominated by the following organizations and appointed by the County Board:

Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to recommend appointment

Chamber of Commerce to recommend appointment

Lake of the Woods Tourism to recommend appointment

City of Baudette to recommend appointment

The Board Members and 6-year terms are established as follows:

Board Member Term Expires Representing

Steve Theis Jr. 12/31/2029 City of Baudette

James “Buck” Nordlof 12/31/2029 County Board District 1

Jeff Bauers 12/31/2030 IDC

Paul Johnson 12/31/2030 Tourism Board

Ed Arnesen 12/31/2025 County Board District 5

Jon Waibel 12/31/2025 County Board District 4

Brittney Peterson 12/31/2026 Chamber of Commerce

Cody Hasbargen 12/31/2027 County Board District 2 

Joe Grund 12/31/2028 County Board District 3

Whereas the City of Baudette member is to be replaced;

Now, therefore, be it resolved that the County Board of Commissioners of the County of Lake of the Woods hereby rappoints the following board members for a 6-year term;

Board Member Term Expires Representing

Ed Arnesen 12/31/2031 County Board District 5

Jon Waibel 12/31/2031 County Board District 4 

Wheelers Sanitation Board Member Appointment

Wheelers Point Sewer Board Members and Terms

Alan Thompson Three Year Term 21 Thru 01/02/2027

Marshall Monk Three Year Term 21 Thru 01/02/2027

Brian Ney Three Year Term 23 Thru 01/02/2026

Paul Johnson Three Year Term 23 Thru 01/02/2026

Justin Ferguson Three Year Term 25 Thru 01/02/2028

Motion

Motion was made by Joe Grund, seconded by Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously by roll call to appoint Brian Ney and Paul Johnson to the Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District Board for a three year term beginning January 2, 2026 thru January 2, 2029. 

Memorandum of Understanding Borderland Treatment Court

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the memorandum of understanding between Borderland Treatment Court and Lake of the Woods County as presented.

CHS Board Member Discussion

County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson informed the board that Tom Mio would no longer be a member of the CHS board. There was discussion around possible replacements.

Human Resources

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set a work session for the Sheriff’s Office for January 6, 2026 following the regular board meeting.

Public Works

County Surveyor Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the three year contract with Bolton & Menk, Inc with a five percent increase annually effective January 1, 2026.

Northerly Park

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave a brief update about the Northerly Park project at the Northwest Angle.

Permission to Advertise for Bid SAP 039-599-009

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise for bids for SAP 039-599-009. 

Tobin Fisheries

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried with Commissioner Buck Nordlof abstaining. 

RESOLUTION ORDERING THE ABATEMENT OF A NUISANCE/RAZING OF A HAZARDOUS BUILDING (INCLUDING ORDINANCE VIOLATIONS)
LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY
RESOLUTION NO. 25-12-06

RESOLUTION ORDERING THE ABATEMENT OF A NUISANCE AND RAZING OF THE HAZARDOUS BUILDING LOCATED IN CSAH #8 RIGHT-OF-WAY (BUILDING KNOWN AS “TOBIN FISH HOUSE”) IN LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY

WHEREAS, a Public Hearing was held at the Lake of the Woods County Commissioners Room at the Lake of the Woods Government Center on August 12, 2025, to determine whether the building known as the “Tobin Fish House” located in the right-of-way of CSAH #8 constitutes a nuisance and/or hazardous building.  Further the hearing was held to determine whether actions taken by the Tobin Fish House owners violated provisions of various Lake of the Woods County Ordinances;

WHEREAS, said notice of the public hearing was properly noticed and served upon the owners;

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County Highway Engineer, AJ Pirkl and Lake of the Woods County Land and Water Planning Director Josh Stromlund presented the County Board with the following documents and provided verbal statements regarding the alleged nuisance and alleged ordinance violations:

1. Highway Easement dated March 8, 1956 granting Lake of the Woods County an easement on the northerly 60 feet of the NW ¼ NW ¼ of section 28, T. 162 N. R. 32 W. (with the Tobin Fish House to be left as is.
2. Correspondence to Jon and James Meikle (Fish house owners – hereinafter “Owners”) dated July 8, 2025, regarding removal of the Tobin Fish House or removal of concrete blocks.
3. Correspondence dated June 29, 2024 (typo – should be 2025) to Jon Meikle.
4. Summary of Events.
5. Email Correspondence from Brian Ketring, MN DOT dated July 7, 2025, regarding removal of Tobin Fish House from the ROW.
6. Various photographs of unauthorized work in CSAH #8 right-of-way.
7. Ordinance violation and recommendation summary (all of which were made part of the record of the proceedings).

WHEREAS, Attorney Alan Fish, was present and represented Jon and James Meikle (“Owners”). Alan Fish on behalf of the Owners presented arguments in support of modifications made to the Tobin Fish House;

WHEREAS, the Board tabled the decision following the Public Hearing and took action on December 16, 2025. Following review, the Board adopted the evidence presented by AJ Pirkl and Josh Stromlund as its findings in this matter;

WHEREAS, the Board finds the owners are in violation of Section 1.24 of the Lake of the Woods County Right-of-Way Ordinance, Subdivision 3: Nuisance, as the Tobin Fish House has never been registered with Lake of the Woods County;

WHEREAS, the Board further finds that the owners are in violation of Section 1.20 of the Lake of the Woods County Right-of-Way Ordinance – Work Done Without a Permit by making modifications to the existing structure without a permit and which modifications created a danger to public safety by placing large concrete blocks on said structure which is located in the right-of-way of CSAH #8;

WHEREAS, the Board further finds that Section 602-1 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance – Nonconforming Buildings or Structures. The Board finds that the original structure was “nonconforming” as it does not meet setback requirements. The zoning ordinance states in part that nonconforming structures cannot be expanded or enlarged without first obtaining a variance. The Board finds that the placement of concrete blocks and crushed rock beyond the existing building walls constitutes an unauthorized expansion. The Board further finds that no variance has been issued to the owners for this expansion;

WHEREAS, the Board further finds that the Tobin Fish House constitutes a nuisance and further, pursuant to Minn. Stat. §§ 463.15 and 463.261, said structure, with the modifications made, further constitutes a hazardous building for the following reasons:

1. The Tobin Fish House is not structurally sound, due in part to inadequate maintenance and dilapidation, and represents a hazard to public safety.
2. That the structure with the concrete blocks and crushed rock are located in CSAH #8 right-of-way and represents a threat to public safety. 

WHEREAS, the conditions listed above are more fully documented in the documents submitted by AJ Pirkl. (Copies of which are attached to this Resolution as Exhibit A.)

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

1. That pursuant to the foregoing findings and in accordance with the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance Code and Minn. Stat. §§ 463.15 and 463.261, the County Board orders the record owners of the above described nuisance and hazardous building/property or their representatives to make the following corrections on the property located at in the CSAH #8 ROW:

1. The building known as the Tobin Fish house, all remnants, together with loose items and debris must be removed from said property no later than 30 days from the date of service of this Resolution upon the record property owners at the sole cost of said owners.  

2. The corrective action must be completed in compliance with all applicable County, State, and Federal regulations. 

3. That a Motion for summary enforcement of the Order will be made to the District Court of Lake of the Woods County in which the nuisance and hazardous building or property is situated unless corrective action is taken; or, unless an Answer is filed within the time specified in Minnesota Statutes §463.18 which is 20 days. 

4. That if Lake of the Woods County must take action to enforce this Order, all enforcement costs will be specially assessed against the record owners of the Tobin Fish House/real property and collected in accordance with Minnesota Statutes §§ 463.22, 463.161, and 463.21 and Lake of the Woods County Ordinances.

5. That the County Attorney (by and through the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office) is authorized to serve this Order upon the owners of the subject property.

6. That the County Attorney is authorized to proceed with the enforcement of this Order as provided in Minnesota Statutes §§ 463.15 and 463.261 and Lake of the Woods County Ordinances. 

Adopted by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners on December 30, 2025. 

Land & Water

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried. 

RESOLUTION NO. 25-12-07

A Resolution Supporting State Legislature to Reinstate Drainage Exemption Language

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County contains unique geographic, hydrologic, and soil conditions that present challenges for effective and efficient agricultural operations; and

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County contains approximately 40,000 acres of agricultural land that is vital to our local economy; and

WHEREAS, these agricultural lands are highly manipulated due to constant tillage activities which make it difficult to determine said wetland boundaries; and

WHEREAS, if wetlands are located on these agricultural lands, the functions of these wetlands have been severely degraded due to the constant manipulation; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners value the functions that undisturbed wetlands perform; and

WHEREAS, the wetland policies, prior to the 2024 Legislative changes, provided a balanced approach to agricultural production and wetland conservation; and

WHEREAS, recent statutory changes in state wetland policies have created unintended consequences for federal farm program participants and non-federal farm program participants; and

WHEREAS, these recent statutory changes removed several drainage exemptions, and now requires an agricultural producer to obtain a valid Certified Determination from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS); and 

WHEREAS, only 3 percent of the agricultural land in Lake of the Woods County has a valid Certified Determination to satisfy these statutory requirements; and

WHEREAS, a federal farm program participant may have to wait for up to two (2) years to receive a valid Certified Determination from the NRCS due to their current staffing levels; and

WHEREAS, this time delay may cost the federal farm program participant hundreds of thousands of dollars due to decreased yield; and

WHEREAS, a non-federal farm program participant has no opportunity to obtain a Certified Determination from the NRCS; and

WHEREAS, these statutory changes directly affect an agricultural producer’s ability to improve farming operations to be more effective and efficient and may jeopardize landowners’ eligibility for United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) program benefits; and

WHEREAS, these compliance challenges cannot be fully resolved at the local level and will require targeted legislative action; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners seek clarity, predictability, and fairness in the application of wetland and drainage requirements for all agricultural producers in order to protect agricultural viability, support landowners, and maintain essential county economic opportunities; and

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Legislature has the authority to enact county-specific or statewide statutory remedies to address these issues;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners formally requests that legislation be introduced and passed during the 2026 Minnesota Legislative Session to provide a targeted statutory fix addressing drainage exemptions and related compliance issues affecting all agricultural producers;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners authorizes the Lake of the Woods County Auditor and the Land & Water Planning Director, and any contracted government relations representatives to work directly with legislators, state agencies, and local stakeholders to advance such legislation; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners urges the Minnesota Legislature to consider the County’s unique conditions, economic reliance on agriculture, and the importance of functional drainage systems for agricultural production by retaining the current Certified Determination requirement and by reinstating the language contained in Minnesota Statute 103G.2241, subdivision 2, e*, as it was prior to the 2024 Legislative Session.

*Minnesota Statute 103G.2241, subdivision 2, e, is commonly referred to as the 8 out of 10 rule

Set Closed Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set a closed session for January 6,2026.

Emergency Management

2024 EMP Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the 2024 EMP Grant in the amount of $11,425.00 as presented by Emergency Management Director Jill Hasbargen-Olson.

Review Old/New Business

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to remove Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund and County Life Flight/Ambulance from the old/new business on the agendas for 2026.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 9:50 a.m. and reconvened at 10:00 a.m.

Veterans Survey Review

Members of the Veterans Services Committee Marie Cochran, Glen Lawrence, and Steve Levasseur reviewed the results of the veterans survey regarding the satisfaction of local veterans with the service received by Veterans Services Officer Rick Rone. The board also heard from concerned veterans from the community. No action was taken at this time.

Lake of the Woods Tourism

Update and Budget Review

Joe Henry gave an update regarding the Lake of the Woods Tourism board and reviewed the 2026 marketing budget.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the 2026 marketing budget as presented.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 11:30 a.m.

Attest: January 13, 2025

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Jon Waibel

December 16, 2025

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, December 16,2025 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: Jon Waibel, Ed Arnesen, Cody Hasbargen, Joe Grund, and Buck Nordlof. Also present was Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: 2026 Sheriff Office Fees.

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 November 25,2025.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $8,770.09; Commissioners Warrants $7,711.32; Commissioners Warrants $13,125.00.

Lifecare Behavioral Health-Clinical Supervision Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Lifecare Behavioral Health Clinical Supervision contract as presented and for Chair Jon Waibel and Social Services Director Amy Ballard to sign the same effective January 1, 2026.

Sanford Behavioral Health-Crisis Response Services Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the Sanford Behavioral Health Crisis Response Services contract as presented by Social Services Director Amy Ballard effective January 1, 2026.

Meridian Services Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the services contract between Lake of the Woods County and Meridian Services Inc, for waiver case management services as presented effective January 1, 2026.

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 $121,626.30; Road & Bridge $25,259.96; County Development $275.00; Joint Ditch $770.41; Solid Waste $32,802.32; EDA $1,476.71.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 12/16/2025 For Payment 12/19/2025

Vendor Name Amount

Baudette/City Of 5,858.35

Clay County Sheriff 3,013.54

Co-Op Services, Inc. 4,280.54

Counties Providing Technology 4,452.00

John Deere Financial 2,436.60

KC TECH LLC 2,925.00

Koochiching Co Treasurer 2,500.00

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 32,150.00

Law Offices Of Patrick D. Moren 12,002.66

LOW Highway Dept 3,759.84

Mar-Kit Landfill 11,828.75

Marshall County Environmental Services 2,373.78

MN Counties Intergovernmental Trust 4,436.00

Northdale Oil Inc. 8,303.62

Pb Distributing Inc 3,353.30

Pennington County Sheriff Office 15,860.00

Peppermint Creek Services, LLC 3,300.00

R & Q Trucking, Inc 2,784.00

University Of Mn 18,750.00

Ziegler, Inc 9,365.58

48 Payments less than 2000 28,477.14

Final Total 182,210.70

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: November 26, 2025 for ($225.00); November 26, 2025 for $551,629.67; November 26 2025 for $1,226,096.51; December 4, 2025 for $3,704.20; December 11, 2025 for $58,429.44.

2026 Board Meeting Dates

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following 2026 board meeting date:

2026 LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY BOARD MEETING DATES

January

Tuesday, January 6 (Organizational Meeting)  9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, January 13 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, January 27 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

February

Tuesday, February 10 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, February 24 8:15 a.m. Lake Of The Woods School (TBD)

March

Tuesday, March 10 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, March 24 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

April

Tuesday, April 14 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, April 28 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

May

Tuesday, May 12 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, May 26 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

June

Tuesday, June 9 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room     

Monday, June 15 6:00 p.m. Board Of Equalization

Tuesday, June 16 10:00 a.m. NWA Meeting

Tuesday, June 23 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

July

Tuesday, July 14 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, July 28 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

August

Tuesday, August 4 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, August 25 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

September

Tuesday, September 8 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, September 22 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

October

Tuesday, October 13 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, October 27 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

November

Tuesday, November 10 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, November 24 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

December

Tuesday, December 15 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, December 15 6:00 p.m. TNT MEETING

Tuesday, December 29 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MAY BE ATTENDING THE FOLLOWING:

AMC JOINT LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE: March 3-5 in St. Paul

AMC LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE: March 25-27 in Nisswa

AMC DISTRICT 2 MEETING: UNKNOWN DATE in June

AMC POLICY COMMITTEE: September 16-18 in Bemidji

AMC ANNUAL CONFERENCE: December 7-9 in Bloomington

LAKE OF THE WOODS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MEETINGS

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners will be attending these meetings on the 3^rd 

Tuesday of the month at 6:00 p.m. in the Commissioners Room at the Government Center

Permission to bid for Legal Publishing Bids

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise for Legal Publishing Bids.

CHS Joint Powers Agreement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the CHS Joint Powers Agreement as presented and for Chair Jon Waibel and County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Permission to Hire Administrative Specialist

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to hire Madison Kotnik as administrative specialist for the Sheriff’s office at Grade 13, Step 1, $26.96 per hour at 273 points effective January 5, 2026.

County Attorney

Medical Examiner Appointment

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried:

RESOLUTION TO APPOINT MEDICAL EXAMINER

Resolution No. 2025-12-02

WHEREAS, the County of Lake of the Woods County currently contracts with the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Services (UND) for medical examiner services and has named Dr. Mary Ann Sens as medical examiner for the County; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Mary Ann Sens has provided written notice to the County that effective January 1, 2026 she will no longer be employed by UND and further, the County was advised that Dr. Sens has been placed on administrative leave with pay, effective November 25, 2025; and

WHEREAS, at the time that the County entered into the extant contract with UND, UND was accredited with the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME); and

WHEREAS, the County has been advised that UND has lost its NAME Accreditation; and

WHEREAS, due to the loss of the NAME Accreditation and the resignation of Dr. Sens, the County will be terminating its Contract with UND; and

WHEREAS, the County intends to enter into a Contractual Agreement with the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office located in the City of Ramsey, County of Anoka, State of Minnesota for provision of medical examiner services as required by law and set forth in Minn. Stat. Chapter 390; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Quinn Piper, of Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office is a doctor of medicine licensed in the State of Minnesota and is a forensic pathologist certified by the American Board of Pathology and therefore qualifies as a coroner or medical examiner pursuant to statute; and

WHEREAS, Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office is presently NAME accredited; and

WHEREAS, under the terms of said future Agreement, the County of Lake of the Woods must appoint a Medical Examiner per statute; and

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby appoints Dr. Quinn Piper, as the Lake of the Woods County Medical Examiner, pending termination of the extant contract with UND and pending execution of an agreement with Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office of Anoka County. Minnesota.

Sheriff

Cannabis Retail Application Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously with Commissioner Ed Arnesen abstaining to approve the cannabis retail application from Lake of the Woods Cannabis Co. as presented by Sheriff Gary Fish.

Pine to Prairie Joint Powers Agreement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Pine to Prairie Joint Powers agreement and for Chair Jon Waibel, and County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same effective January 1, 2026.

Sheriff’s Office Fees

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously the Sheriff’s office fees as presented by Sheriff Gary Fish.

Tobin Fisheries

County Attorney Michelle Moren, and County Engineer Anthony Pirkl reviewed the Right of Way Ordinance violation in regards to the Tobin Fisheries building.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the request to draft a resolution with corrective action that includes the building must be taken down or removed from the area within 60 days at the cost of the owner.

Public Works

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to add solid waste walking floor purchase to the agenda.

Solid Waste Walking Floor Purchase

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of a walking floor at the landfill in the amount of $128,000.00.

LRIP Resolution

Resolution

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

LOCAL ROAD IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY SPONSORING AGENCY

For Eighth Ave South East, City of Baudette Project

Resolution No. 2025-12-01

WHEREAS, the City of Baudette is applying to the Commissioner of Transportation for a grant from the Minnesota State Transportation Fund for Local Road Improvement for Project- Eighth Ave South East;

BE IT RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County agrees to act as the sponsoring agency for the project identified as Eighth Ave South East, seeking Local Road Improvement Program funding and has reviewed and approved the project as proposed. Sponsorship includes a willingness to secure and guarantee the local share of costs associated with this project and responsibility for seeing this project through to its completion, with compliance of applicable laws, rules and regulations; and,

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Lake of the Woods County hereby authorizes County Engineer, Anthony Pirkl to act as agent on behalf of this sponsoring agency.

Set Public Hearing

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set a public hearing for an amendment to the ATV Ordinance for January 13, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.

Ditch Authority

Motion

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

Ditch Review

The Board of Commissioner and County Engineer Anthony Pirkl reviewed the ditch assessments for 2026 and discussed other ditch related items.

Motion

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

Recorder

County Recorder Sue Ney reviewed the judicial private date security statute that allows the county to charge up to $75.00 per notice, request, and consent. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve Private Data Security fees as presented by County Recorder Sue Ney.

Northwest Community Action (NWCA)

NWCA Representatives Diane Hayes and John Wynn reviewed the housing rehabilitation agreements packet and requested final approval from the board.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the housing rehabilitation agreements packet as presented and for Chair Jon Waibel and County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

IT

Knowbe4 Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Knowbe4 Contract as presented by IT Director John Butenhoff.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 10:55 a.m. and reconvened at 6:00p.m. for the Truth in Taxation meeting.

Truth In Taxation Meeting

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 for Truth In Taxation meeting at 6:00p.m. Members present, Commissioners Cody Hasbargen, Joe Grund, Buck Nordlof, Jon Waibel, and Ed Arnesen. Others present, County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, County Engineer Anthony Pirkl, Deputy Auditor-Treasurer Anna Sanchez, Ed Anderson, Rose Anderson, Toby Burk, and Don Smith.

County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson reviewed the 2026 Proposed County Budget & Levy at the Truth In Taxation Public Hearing. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the public hearing and open the regular meeting at 6:25 p.m.

2026 Certified Budget

Resolution

Resolution Adopting

Certified 2026 Budget and Tax Levy

Resolution   2026-12-03

The following Resolution was proposed and moved for adoption by Commissioner Joe Grund:

WHEREAS, the Proposed County Budget for the year 2026 has been reviewed by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners; and 

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the following Proposed Budget and Tax Levy is hereby adopted for Lake of the Woods County for 2026:

Revenue Fund $ 2,450,300

Road & Bridge Fund $520,000

Social Services Fund $700,000

Economic Development Authority Fund   $50,000

2026 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy  $ 3,720,300

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the following amounts be levied against the unorganized townships of Lake of the Woods County for 2026:

Twp Road & Bridge  $546,470*

Twp Fire – Baudette  $30,750

Twp Fire – Williams  $21,340

Twp Fire – NW Angle  $6,500

Total  $605,060 

2026

* $546,470 for Township Road & Bridge, includes $5,000 Blue Blades and $12,765 Admin of Township Roads (528,705+5,000+12,765=546,470)  

A public meeting to discuss the 2026 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy was held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Lake of the Woods County Commissioners’ Room. 

The motion was seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried and the Proposed Budget is now the Certified Budget. 

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 6:35 p.m.

Attest: December 30, 2025

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Jon Waibel