October 14, 2025

AGENDA

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

TIME TAB

9:00 a.m. #1 Pledge to the Flag

Approval of Agenda 

Approve Minutes

  • September 23, 2025

9:05 a.m. #2 Audit Exit Review

9:20 a.m. #3 Social Services

  • Claims

9:25 a.m. #4 Auditor/Treasurer

  • Claims
  • Lost Warrant Affidavit
  • HCSP Renewal

9:30 a.m. #5 Superintendent Scott Fitzsimonds

  • Introduction & Updates

9:40 a.m. #6 Public Works

  • Updates
  • County Road Safety Plan Agreement
  • MPCA Recycling Grant Resolution

9:45 a.m. #7 Veterans Services Officer

  • Updates

9:55 a.m. #8 Land & Water

  • IUP 25-08IU

10:00 a.m. #9 Sheriff

  • Updates
  • Advertise, Interview, & Hire-Admin Assistant
  • Advertise, Interview, & Hire-PT Dispatch
  • Stipends Approval
  • Bank Card Signature
  • Approval to Adjust Huber Fees
  • Permission to Sell Vehicles & Equipment by Sealed Bid

10:10 a.m. #10 Adjourn

10:15 a.m. #11 Koochiching County Board Meeting & Jail Tour

*A quorum of the County Board will attend the Koochiching County board meeting and tour the new Jail building. No action will be taken.

Old/New Business

  • Lessard –Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund
  • Land Trade
  • Township Road Inventory
  • Law Enforcement Center
  • Unused Wells
  • County Life Flight/Ambulance
  • Revenue & Expenditure

October 14, 2025

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.

  1. 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.

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

Explain?  Residential.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

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

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

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

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

Explain?  See submitted application.

  1. 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.

  1. 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

September 23, 2025

AGENDA

Tuesday, September 23, 2025

TIME TAB

9:00 a.m. #1 Pledge to the Flag

Approval of Agenda 

Approve Minutes

  • September 9, 2025

9:05 a.m. #2 Social Services

  • Claims

9:10 a.m. #3 Auditor/Treasurer

  • Claims
  • Proposed Tax Levy
  • Cancel Public Hearing
  • Proposal For Audit Services

9:15 a.m. #4 Public Works

  • Updates

9:25 a.m. #5 Blue Blade Policy Approval

9:30 a.m. #6 Human Resources

  • Flu Shots Approval

9:40 a.m. #7 Fireworks Committee

9:55 a.m.          #8 Adjourn

10:00 a.m.         #9 Work Session

Old/New Business

  • Lessard –Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund
  • Land Trade
  • Township Road Inventory
  • Law Enforcement Center
  • Unused Wells
  • County Life Flight/Ambulance
  • Revenue & Expenditure

September 23, 2025

September 23, 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, Buck Nordlof and Jon Waibel. Also present was County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Auditor’s Office.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

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

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $7,716.84; Commissioners Warrants $2,826.34; Commissioners Warrants $30,690.57.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $49,712.76; Road & Bridge $8,697.32; County Development $75.00; Natl Resc Enhanc $21.73; Joint Ditch $280.00; Solid Waste $64,055.94; EDA $1,628.25.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 9/23/2025 For Payment 9/26/2025

Vendor Name             Amount

Clay County Sheriff 4,102.51 

Counties Providing Technology 4,452.00 

Farmers Union Oil company 2,649.59 

Gamache/Micheal D 7,350.00 

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys           16,900.00 

LOW Highway Dept                         12,585.00 

LOW School District–390 3,000.00 

Lyon County GIS Department 5,536.00 

Mar-Kit Landfill           16,414.50 

North East Technical Service,Inc           14,086.70 

Titan Machinery – Roseau 5,146.85 

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance             6,268.50 

42 Payments less than 2000 25,979.35

Final Total: 124,471.00

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: September 10, 2025 for $212,426.71; September 17, 2025 for $271,923.74; September 11, 2025 for $316,290.98; September 11, 2025 for $344,631.61; September 11, 2024 for ($625.00); September 11, 2025 for ($645.34).

Cancel Public Hearing

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to cancel the public hearing scheduled for October 14, 2025 for the liquor and tobacco license application as requested by Dale’s on Lake of the Woods.

Proposal for Audit Services

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the proposal from Hoffman, Philipp, & Martell, PLLC for audit services for the years 2025, 2026, and 2027 in the amount of $43,000.00 per year.

Updates

County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson gave an update that included: Koochiching County Meeting and Jail Tour on October 14th, 2025 following the regular board meeting, North Star Annual Meeting held at Lake of the Woods County High School, and Representatives meeting regarding bonding in Bemidji on September 23, 2025.

Proposed Tax Levy

Resolution

Resolution Adopting

Proposed 2026 Budget and Tax Levy

Resolution   2025-09-04

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 

2025

* $526,470 for Township Road & Bridge, includes $5,000 Blue Blades and $12,765 Admin of Township Roads (508,705+5,000+12,765=526,470)  

A public meeting to discuss the 2026 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy will be 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 Ed Arnesen, and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various Highway and Solid Waste projects.

Gravel Contract Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the gravel contract with Lavalla Sand & Gravel in the amount of $104,000.00.

Blue Blade Policy Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, and carried unanimously to approve the amendments to the blue blade policy as recommended by County Engineer Anthony Pirkl, GIS Coordinator Eric Solo, and Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund.

Human Resources

Flu Shot Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request for public health to use the court room to administer flu shots at 1:00 p.m. on September 23, 2025.

Fireworks Committee

Tessa Strohl representing the Fireworks Committee came to the board to request a donation for the Fourth of July fireworks show.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request for donation in the amount of $5,000.00 out of ConCon funds.

Recess

A brief recess took place at 9:45 a.m. and reconvened at 11:30 a.m.

Auditor-Treasurer Contract Extension

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to extend Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson’s retirement date to July 31, 2026 to assist with transitions in the Auditor-Treasurer’s office at $66.00 per hour effective next full pay period.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 11:35 a.m.

Attest: October 14, 2025

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Jon Waibel

September 9, 2025

September 9, 2025

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, September 9,2025 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, Buck Nordlof and Jon Waibel. Also present was County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: Closed Session, Markit Landfill Contract, LCCMR Resolution, Advertise, Interview, & Hire-PT Dispatch, Pennington County Jail Contract, Department Head Budget Meetings, and Set Work Session. Remove: Proposed Tax Levy.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the official minutes of August 26, 2025.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $12,111.51; Commissioners Warrants $2,767.33; Commissioners Warrants $25,765.90.

MCIT

Risk Management Consultant Joe Cieminski reviewed the Lake of the Woods County risk management services and benefits provided by MCIT.

North Memorial Flight

North Memorial Flight representatives Mike Zolik and Kevin Lee gave an overview of the services they have provided to Lake of the Woods County and surrounding areas. No action was taken at this time.

Land & Water

Consideration of Interim Use Permit Application #25-07IU by Tyler and Hannah Peterson

Government Lot Six (6), Section Six (6), Township One-hundred Sixty (160) North, Range Thirty-three (33) West (Potamo)-Parcel ID#28.06.32.000. 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 Rural Residential Zoning District (R2).

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following IUP/Findings of Fact #25-07IU by Tyler and Hannah Peterson to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Rural Residential Zoning District (R2) 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 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.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Short-Term Vacation Rental Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Tyler and Hannah Peterson   Application Number:  25-07IU Date:  September 9, 2025

Location/Legal Description:  Government Lot 6, Section 6, T. 160N, R. 33 W     Parcel Number:  28.06.32.000

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 Rural Residential Zoning District (R2).

  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?  Residential use.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  Per application.

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

Why or why not?  Rural Residential.

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

Why or why not?  County Road 2.

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

Explain?  No more traffic than current and plenty of parking onsite.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Explain?  See application.

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

Explain?  See well water test results in application. 

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

Explain?  Four (4) individuals as per submitted application. 

  1. 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?  See application.

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

Explain?  As per the submitted application, the quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

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

Explain?  See submitted application.

  1. 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 was included in the application.

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

YES (  )  NO (X)  N/A (  )

Explain?  The property has a well-established natural buffer. 

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.

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

September 9, 2025 _____________________________________

Date Jon Waibel

Chair, County Board

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #25-05CU by Buell Consulting, Inc. on behalf of Lake Area Construction, Inc.

The Southeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter of the Southwest Quarter (SE1/4SW1/4SW1/4), Section Twenty (20), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West (Wheeler)-Parcel ID#19.20.31.000. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401-C of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance, to operate a commercial communications tower in a Rural Residential District (R2). 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following CUP/Findings of Fact #25-05CU by Buell Consulting, Inc. on behalf of Lake Area Construction, Inc. to operate a commercial communications tower in a Rural Residential District (R2) with the following conditions:

  1. Comply with Federal and State of Minnesota wetland rules.
  2. Comply with FCC guidelines and rules governing communication towers.
  3. Comply with FAA guidelines and rules governing communication towers.

Lake of the Woods County Planning Commission

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Lake Area Construction, Inc./The Towers, LLC Date:  September 3, 2025

Blair Ranson, Buell Consulting, Inc. as Agent

Location/Legal Description:  The SE¼SW¼SW¼, Section 20. T. 162N, R. 32W

Parcel Number: 19.20.31.000

Project Proposal:  To operate a commercial communications tower in a Rural Residential District (R2).

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? Communications.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not? Communications.

  1. 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? ____________________________________________________________________

  1. 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? ____________________________________________________________________

  1. 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? ____________________________________________________________________

  1. 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? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? County Road 8.

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

Why or why not? Rural residential.

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

  1. 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? _____________________________________________________________

  1. 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? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

  1. 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? ____________________________________________________________________

  1. 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? ____________________________________________________________________

  1. 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? ____________________________________________________________________

  1. 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? ____________________________________________________________________

  1. 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 specific conditions of approval are as follows: 

  1. Approval pending wetland conditions and FCC and FAA regulations.

The Lake of the Woods County Planning Commission hereby recommends to the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners that this proposal be:

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

September 3, 2025 _____________________________________

Date Ken Horntvedt

Chair, Planning Commission

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set a work session for September 23,2025 following the regular board meeting.

Fair Board

JP Sweet representing Lake of the Woods County Fair Board reviewed the costs of carnivals for the county fair that included rides, games, and food. He also discussed the success of the previous years fair. Mr. Sweet also thanked the board for their support and asked if it would be possible to receive additional funds again for the next year. No action was taken at this time.

Public Works

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to add Semi-truck Purchase Approval to the agenda.

Semi-truck Purchase Approval 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of three semi-trucks up to $180,000.00 to be paid for out of Solid Waste fire reimbursement funds and the Highway and Solid Waste budget accordingly.

LCCMR Resolution 

Resolution

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

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY, MINNESOTA

Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resource (LCCMR)

RESOLUTION 2025-09-01

WHEREAS, The Lake of the Woods County seeks $550,000.00 to Phase II Investigation of Pine and Curry Island SNA.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That Lake of the Woods County supports the above referenced project and authorizes the submittal of a proposal for funding of this project on behalf of the Lake of the Woods County to the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) in response to the 2026 Environmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) Request for Proposal; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That, if funding is awarded, the Lake of the Woods County agrees to accept the award and may enter into an agreement with the state of Minnesota for the above referenced project. Lake of the Woods County will comply with all applicable laws, environmental requirements, and regulations and any additional conditions stated in the grant agreement and the approved LCCMR work plan; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That Lake of the Woods County understands that grants from the ENRTF are generally paid out on a reimbursement basis. Lake of the Woods County has the financial capability to pay for project expenses prior to seeking reimbursement; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That Lake of the Woods County certifies none of the current principals of Lake of the Woods County have been convicted of a felony financial crime in the last ten years. For this purpose, a principal is defined as a public official, a board member, or staff that would have the authority to access or determine the use of ENRTF funds, if awarded; and  

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That Anthony Pirkl – Public Works Director is hereby authorized to execute such agreements and work plans as necessary and Anthony Pirkl is authorized to implement the project on behalf of the Lake of the Woods County.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Lake of the Woods County has the financial capability to meet the match requirements and ensure adequate construction, operation, and maintenance of the project once completed.

Mar-Kit Landfill Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the Mar-Kit Landfill contract beginning January 1, 2026.

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects.

NG911 Blue Blade Policy 

The board reviewed amendments to the NG911 Blue Blade Policy. No action was taken at this time.

IT/GIS

GIS Beacon Bundle

GIS Coordinator Eric Solo, IT Director John Butenhoff, and County Recorder Sue Ney reviewed the costs and benefits of upgrading to the Beacon Essentials package with Schneider Geospatial.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve upgrading to the Beacon Essential package in the amount totaling $28,028.00; whereas $8,000.00 will be a one-time setup cost and $20,028.00 will be the annual cost. This is to be paid for as follows: $12,000.00 out of the Enhancement fund, $2,000.00 out of the Recorder’s Technology Fund, and the remainder out of IT budget. 

GIS Open Data

Resolution

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

FREE AND OPEN DATA

RESOLUTION 2025-09-02

WHEREAS, the County of Lake of the Woods create, maintains and possesses valuable geographic information systems (GIS) data to support its various business purposes; and

WHEREAS, the County of Lake of the Woods recognizes that this GIS data is also a public resource and there are significant benefits to making this data freely and openly available, and

WHEREAS, the emergence and continued refinement of new information technology has dramatically changed the way citizens search for and expect to find, consume and utilize information, and such technology can aggregate ever larger quantities of data and allow government to provide information to the public with increasing efficiency; and 

WHEREAS, the County of Lake of the Woods can leverage this technology to meet the public demand for information, enhance public access to government data and make government processes transparent in order to promote public trust; and

WHEREAS, ensuring the quality, consistency and availability of such data is a core function of government and is essential to maintaining the data’s value and utility;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby authorizes Geographic Information Systems Coordinator (GIS) to publish its public geospatial data on its website in a commonly recognized and easily produced form, available for download by anyone at no cost, subject to accepting the terms of the data disclaimer GIS data usage agreement; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby reserves the right for county business units to charge fees for GIS data provided in other forms and to accommodate special requests for maps, data, and analysis under the applicable rules and statutes that govern said requests; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby authorizes qualified members of its staff to coordinate with other counties, cities, governments and agencies through the MetroGIS collaborative or through state agencies to share and publish its GIS data in common formats through common websites and public data portals to increase public awareness of its availability and promote its use.

NG911 GIS Project Update

GIS Coordinator Eric Solo informed the board that the GIS data submission to the states NG911 Enterprise Database has been completed.

Squad PC Purchase Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of four squad pc’s in the amount of $18,305.00.

Consulting

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the hire of Peder Hovland as IT Consultant at $175.00 per hour up to $5000.00 for 2025.

Sheriff

Pennington Contract Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the Jail Purchase of Services Agreement between Lake of the Woods County and Pennington County for $70.00 per day for three beds effective September 1, 2025 and expiring September 1, 2026 and to have Chair Jon Waibel and Sheriff Gary Fish sign the same.

Human Resources

Permission to Hire Eligibility Worker

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the hire of Corey Rundall as Social Services Eligibility Worker at Grade 11, Step 1, $24.89 per hour at 262 points effective October 6,2025.

Permission to Hire Social Worker

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously with Commissioner Buck Nordlof abstaining to approve the hire of Shayla Risser as Social Services Social Worker at Grade 15, Step 1, $30.27 per hour at 332 points effective September 16, 2025.

Permission to Advertise, Interview, & Hire- PT Dispatch

Human Resources Director Savanna Slick requested permission to advertise, interview, and hire for a part-time dispatch position. No action was taken at this time.

Appoint Commissioners to Interview-Deputy Auditor-Treasurer Fiscal Officer

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to appoint Commissioners Ed Arnesen, and Buck Nordlof to Interview for the Deputy Auditor-Treasurer-Fiscal Officer position.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $60,648.30; Road & Bridge $40,060.15; County Development $1,200.00; Solid Waste $19,888.96.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 9/09/2025 For Payment 9/12/2025

Vendor Name Amount

Auto Value Baudette 2,359.40 

Bolton & Menk 7,228.00 

Hoffman, Philipp & Martell, PLLC 7,165.00 

Interstate Engineering Inc 3,985.00 

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys           15,920.00 

Law Offices Of Patrick D. Moren         12,254.66 

Liberty Tire Recycling, LLC             5,474.55 

Northdale Oil Inc.           23,438.09 

Pomp’s Tire-Thief River Falls 9,579.84 

Quadient Finance USA Inc.             5,000.00 

R & Q Trucking, Inc 7,656.00 

Strata Corp, Inc.             2,397.89 

Ziegler, Inc 2,133.58 

42 Payments less than 2000 17,205.40

Final Total: 121,797.41

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: September 3,2025 for $780,115.27.

Set Public Hearing Date

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set a public hearing for an off-sale liquor and tobacco license for Dale’s on Lake of the Woods on October 14, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. in the Commissioners room

Set Budget Work Sessions

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to set work sessions with department heads for September 16th, 17th, and 18th at 8:30 a.m. until 12:00p.m.

Closed Session 

Resolution 

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

Resolution Closing Board Meeting 

Resolution No. 2025-09-03 

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, has received complaints with implicit threats of litigation from Jared Martinson and R&E LOW LLC regarding land use decisions made by county employees;   

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board seeks to meet with its attorney, to discuss the litigation threats; 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 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 
  1. The specific subjects to be discussed, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.01, subd. 3, are the legal strategy regarding the implicit threats of litigation from Jared Martinson and R&E LOW LLC regarding land use decisions made by county employees. 

Adopted by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota this 9th day of September, 2025.  

Motion 

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

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 12:30 p.m.

Attest: September 23, 2025

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Jon Waibel

September 9, 2025

Tuesday, September 9, 2025

TIME TAB

9:00 a.m. #1 Pledge to the Flag

Approval of Agenda 

Approve Minutes

  • August 26, 2025

9:05 a.m. #2 Social Services

  • Claims

9:10  a.m. #3 MCIT-Joe Cieminski

9:30 a.m. #4 North Memorial Flight-Mike Zolik

9:50 a.m. #5 Land & Water

  • IUP #25-07IU-Peterson
  • CUP #25-05CU-Buell Consulting, Inc.

10:00 a.m. #6 Fair Board

10:10 a.m. #7 Public Works

  • Updates

10:20 a.m. #8 Blue Blade Policy 

10:30 a.m. #9 IT/GIS

  • GIS Beacon Bundle Discussion
  • GIS Open Data
  • Squad PC
  • Consulting

11:00 a.m. #10 Human Resources

  • Permission to Hire-Eligibility Worker
  • Permission to Hire-Social Worker

11:10 a.m. #11 Auditor/Treasurer

  • Claims
  • Set Public Hearing Date
  • Proposed Tax Levy

11:20 a.m.   #12 Adjourn

Correspondence:

Old/New Business

  • Lessard –Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund
  • Land Trade
  • Township Road Inventory
  • Law Enforcement Center
  • Unused Wells
  • County Life Flight/Ambulance
  • Revenue & Expenditure

Microsoft Teams meeting 

Join on your computer, mobile app or room device 

Click here to join the meeting 

Meeting ID: 220 768 009 572
Passcode: 4maL9L 

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+1 929-336-2435,,309462229# United States, New York City 

Phone Conference ID: 309 462 229# 

August 26, 2025

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

TIME TAB

9:00 a.m. #1 Pledge to the Flag

Approval of Agenda 

Approve Minutes

  • August 12, 2025

9:05 a.m. #2 Social Services

  • Claims
  • Retirement Resolution-Carla Bailey

9:10 a.m. #3 Auditor/Treasurer

  • Claims
  • PFML

9:15 a.m. #4 Emergency Management

  • Purchase Approval-3rd Cryptr for the Armer Radio Consol MCC7500e

9:20 a.m. #5 Sheriff

  • Updates
  • Set Marijuana Application Fee
  • Squad Car Cameras

9:30 a.m. #6 Public Works

  • Updates

9:40 a.m. #7 Blue Blade Policy Amendment

9:50 a.m.          #8 Adjourn

9:55 a.m.           #9 Work Session

Correspondence:

Old/New Business

  • Lessard –Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund
  • Land Trade
  • Township Road Inventory
  • Law Enforcement Center
  • Unused Wells
  • County Life Flight/Ambulance
  • Revenue & Expenditure

Microsoft Teams meeting 

Join on your computer, mobile app or room device 

Click here to join the meeting 

Meeting ID: 220 768 009 572
Passcode: 4maL9L 

Download Teams | Join on the web

Or call in (audio only) 

+1 929-336-2435,,309462229# United States, New York City 

Phone Conference ID: 309 462 229# 

August 12, 2025

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

TIME TAB

9:00 a.m. #1 Pledge to the Flag

Approval of Agenda 

Approve Minutes

  • July 22, 2025

9:05 a.m. #2 Social Services

  • Claims
  • Resignation Resolution-Joanna Onstad

9:10 a.m. #3 Recorder

  • Plat Approvals

9:20 a.m. #4 Sheriff

  • Deputy Approval
  • Purchase Approval-Keyboard for Squad PC

9:30 a.m. #5 Department of Corrections

10:00 a.m. #6 Public Hearing

  • Close/Open
  • Public Hearing: Ordinance Violation-Structure Located in the ROW CSAH 8
  • Close/Open

10:30 a.m. #7 Public Works

  • Updates
  • Blue Blade Policy Review
  • CSAH 2 Borings
  • Equipment Rental for Demolition Cap

10:40 a.m. #8 Brian Wikstrom

  • Updates

10:55 a.m. #9 Veterans Office Update

11: 10 a.m. #10 Auditor/Treasurer

  • Claims
  • Contract Approval
  • General Management Group-Cost Allocation Plan
  • Set Budget Dates

11:20 a.m. #11 Adjourn

11:25 a.m. #12 Work Session

Old/New Business

  • Lessard –Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund
  • Land Trade
  • Township Road Inventory
  • Law Enforcement Center
  • Unused Wells
  • County Life Flight/Ambulance
  • Revenue & Expenditure

Microsoft Teams meeting 

Join on your computer, mobile app or room device 

Click here to join the meeting 

Meeting ID: 220 768 009 572
Passcode: 4maL9L 

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+1 929-336-2435,,309462229# United States, New York City 

Phone Conference ID: 309 462 229# 

August 12, 2025

August 12, 2025

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, August 12,2025 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, Jon Waibel, Ed Arnesen, and Buck Nordlof. Also present was County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: PMLA, Auditors Office, and Closed Session.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of July 22, 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 $19,839.00; Commissioners Warrants $4,304.72; Commissioners Warrants $16,930.95.

Resignation Resolution

Resolution

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

RECOGNITION OF YEARS OF SERVICE

RESOLUTION 2025-08-01

WHEREAS: Joanna Onstad has served the residents of Lake of the Woods County since September 28, 2015 as a Lake of the Woods County Social Worker;

WHEREAS: Joanna Onstad has resigned from Lake of the Woods County service effective August 8, 2025 with 10 years of service;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners extends its deepest appreciation to Joanna Onstad for her dedicated service and best wishes to her;

The resolution was seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried.

Recorder

County Recorder Sue Ney requested approval of CIC No. 5 Baudette Mancaves and CIC No. 6 Youngs Bay Mancaves.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve CIC No. 5 Baudette Mancaves and authorize the Chairman and the Auditor-Treasurer to sign the same.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve CIC No. 6 Youngs Bay Mancaves and authorize the Chairman and the Auditor-Treasurer to sign the same.

Sheriff

Deputy Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve Wyatt Shaw as Deputy Sheriff at Grade 16, Step 1, $30.71 per hour at 323 points effective August 3, 2025.

Purchase Approval-Keyboard for Squad PC

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of a keyboard for a squad car pc in the amount of $629.00 to be paid for out of the Sheriff’s budget.

Department of Corrections

Janelle Cheney and Keegan Foss from Department of Corrections gave an overview of their departments and programs that work with Lake of the Woods County and reviewed the district budget plan for 2026.

Veterans Office Discussion

The board discussed possible locations for the Veterans Services Officer office. It was the consensus of the board to approve the use of the Commissioners room for veterans services on Mondays.

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various highway and landfill projects.

CSAH 2 Borings

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the CSAH 2 borings project in the amount of $24,148.00.

Equipment Rental for Demolition Cap

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the rental of equipment for the demolition cap in the amount of $25,000.00 per month.

Blue Blade Policy

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl and the Board of Commissioners reviewed the blue blade policy. There was no action taken at this time. They recommended Anthony Pirkl, Eric Solo, and Josh Stromlund review and update the policy and bring it back to the next board meeting.

Recess

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

PUBLIC HEARING

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the public hearing at 10:00 a.m.

Public Hearing

Chair Jon Waibel opened the public hearing with the following members present: Commissioners: Jon Waibel, Cody Hasbargen, Joe Grund, Ed Arnesen and Buck Nordlof. Also Present was: Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson, County Attorney Michelle Moren, County Engineer Anthony Pirkl, Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund, Attorney Al Fish, James Meikle, and concerned citizens.

Ordinance Violation-Structure Located in Right of Way of CSAH 8

The board was presented evidence from all parties regarding the Tobin Fisheries building located in the right of way of CSAH 8 and discussed various options for solution. Members of the public were also given the opportunity to offer their opinions. No action was taken at this time.

Motion

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

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously with Commissioner Buck Nordlof abstaining to extend the negotiation period for 60 days and for Commissioners Jon Waibel and Ed Arnesen to be on the negotiation committee to review options and report back to the board.

Wiktel-Brian Wikstrom

Brian Wikstrom from Wiktel gave an update on the progress of installing high speed internet across the region.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $169,135.96; Road & Bridge $113,671.18; County Development $200.00; Solid Waste $51,383.45; EDA $1,836.15.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 8/12/2025 For Payment 8/15/2025

Vendor Name Amount

CARRIFF Engineered Fabrics Corporation 3,305.65 

Co-Op Services, Inc. 5,702.84 

Contech Engineered Solutions LLC 4,768.25 

Counties Providing Technology 4,532.00 

Edwards Oil, Inc.             52,564.18 

Farmers Union Oil company 2,917.60 

Government Management Group, Inc 3,750.00 

Hoffman, Philipp & Martell, PLLC 6,160.00 

Integris LLC 2,983.71 

Interstate Engineering Inc             11,765.00 

Lake Area Construction Inc             18,150.00 

Lakes Concrete Plus Inc. 2,010.00 

Lavalla Sand & Gravel Inc 7,480.00 

Law Offices Of Patrick D. Moren             12,086.66 

LOW Soil & Water Cons. Dist.             29,090.50 

Mar-Kit Landfill             18,474.00 

Marco Technologies LLC 2,296.63 

North Country Chevrolet             53,087.68 

Northdale Oil Inc.             23,408.95 

Pennington County Sheriff Office             13,735.10

Powerplan               2,419.87 

Quadient Finance USA Inc. 3,000.00 

R & Q Trucking, Inc 6,264.00 

Strata Corp, Inc   2,426.67 

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance                 6,268.50 

Ziegler, Inc 6,557.74 

67 2000 Payments less than 31,021.21

Final Total: 336,226.74

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: July 23,2025 for $10,615.21; July 30,2025 for $7,626.05; August 6, 2025 $661,806.11.

Contract Approval-General Management Group Cost Allocation Plan

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the contract between Lake of the Woods County and General Management Group for the cost allocation plan for the years 2025,2026,2027,2028, and 2029.

Set Budget Dates

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to set the budget meeting dates for September 3, 2025, September 4, 2025, and September 5, 2025.

Paid Medical Leave Act (PMLA) Committee

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to create a PMLA Committee with Commissioners Cody Hasbargen and Buck Nordlof with Commissioner Joe Grund as an alternate.

Acceptance of Notice of Retirement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to accept the notice of retirement from Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson effective November 30, 2025.

Permission to Advertise

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise for the Auditor-Treasurer position.

RECESS

A brief recess took place at 11:27 a.m. and reconvened at 12:30.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to set a work session for Koochiching Jail on August 26, 2025 following the regular board meeting.

Closed Session

Resolution

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

Resolution Closing Board Meeting

Resolution No. 2025-08-02

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, has received complaints with implicit threats of litigation from Jared Martinson and R&E LOW LLC regarding land use decisions made by county employees;  

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board seeks to meet with its attorney, to discuss the litigation threats; 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 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
  1. The specific subjects to be discussed, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.01, subd. 3, are the legal strategy regarding the implicit threats of litigation from Jared Martinson and R&E LOW LLC regarding land use decisions made by county employees.

Adopted by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota this 12th day of August, 2025. 

Adjourn

Motion

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

Attest: August 26, 2025

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Jon Waibel

July 22, 2025

July 22, 2025

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, July 22,2025 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, Jon Waibel, Ed Arnesen, and Buck Nordlof. Also present was County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: Add: HCSP Contribution.

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 July 8, 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 $11,265.20; Commissioners Warrants $1,865.11; Commissioners Warrants $28,062.15.

Human Resources

Permission to Advertise, Interview, & Hire-Social Worker

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise, interview, & hire a Social Worker at Grade 15, Step 1, $30.27 per hour at 332 points.

Permission to Advertise, Interview, & Hire-Eligibility Worker

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise, interview, & hire a Eligibility Worker at Grade 11, Step 1, $24.89 per hour at 262 points.

HCSP Contribution 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to allow a HCSP contribution for Joanna Onstad.

Department of Natural Resources

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

Meredith Cornett and Torin McCormack provided a presentation on the design for ditch modifications at winter road lake peatland scientific and natural area. It was the consensus of the board to continue with the design project.

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects and discussed the ongoing clean up and restoration of the landfill building that was lost in a fire.

Set Public Hearing

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to set a public hearing for August 12, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. for an ordinance violation.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $128,716.02; Road & Bridge $244,383.50; Road & Bridge $1,384.22; County Development $300.00; Joint Ditch $6,314.70; Solid Waste $60,123.47; EDA $1,413.56.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 7/22/2025 For Payment 7/25/2025

Vendor Name Amount

Clay County Sheriff 3,736.74 

Co-Op Services, Inc. 5,328.88 

Counties Providing Technology 4,452.00 

Extreme Duty Ironworks 6,248.00 

Gamache/Micheal D 3,000.00 

Integris LLC 2,023.71 

KC TECH LLC               2,925.00 

Knife River Corporation                   203,819.49 

Lake of the Woods Electric LLC                15,240.25 

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys                        10,570.00 

Larson Helicopters,LLC 8,636.25 

LOW Highway Dept             18,267.50 

LOW Marine, Inc             57,753.00 

Mar-Kit Landfill                       14,380.50 

Mn Counties Computer Co-Op 2,214.26 

Mn State Dept-Correction             19,578.99 

Northdale Oil Inc.             16,025.94 

NOVA Fire Protection, Inc 2,695.00 

Rainy Lake Oil, Inc 2,595.00 

Titan Machinery – Roseau 5,436.13 

60  Payments less than 2000                    37,708.80

Final Total: 442,635.47

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: July 9, 2025 for $62,339.80; July 14, 2025 for $925,841.66; July 16, 2025 for $24,021.78; July 18, 2025 for $17,000.00.

Fraternal Order of Police NW MN #8

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously:

RESOLUTION APPROVING 

LAWFUL GAMBLING ACTIVITY APPLICATION 

TO CONDUCT OFF-SITE GAMBLING

RESOLUTION NO. 25-07-01

WHEREAS; the Fraternal Order of Police NW MN #8 has submitted a Minnesota Lawful Gambling LG220 Application for Exempt Permit Gambling to be conducted at the following establishment, which is located in Lake of the Woods County: Sportsman’s Lodge 2/23/2026

Sportsman’s Lodge 3244 Bur Oak Rd NW Baudette, MN 56623

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby approves said application for submission to the Minnesota Gambling Control Board.

Sheriff

NG911 Update

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to use a vendor to upload information for the NG911 state project using information provided by GIS.

Koochiching Jail Update

Koochiching County District 4 Commissioner Jason Sjoblom met with the board to provide an update on the progress of their new jail building. Mr. Sjoblom also provided a document with images of the new jail.

Legislative Updates

Senator Steve Green and Representative Bidal Duran met with the board to answer questions and gave an update that included: Williams School, Jail Bonding, DOC processes, and appropriations.

Add to Agenda

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to add Wikstrom Letter of Support to the agenda.

Wikstrom Letter of Support-BEAD Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve a letter of support for a BEAD Grant that would provide fiber services to the area.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 11:50 a.m.

Attest: August 12, 2025

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Jon Waibel