March 25, 2025

AGENDA

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

TIME TAB

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

Approval of Agenda 

Approve Minutes of March 11, 2025

9:05 a.m. #2 Social Services

  • Claims
  • Beltrami County & LOTW County Fraud Agreement

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

  • Claims
  • Classification of Forfeited Lands
  • Set Work Session

9:15 a.m. #4 Public Works

  • Updates
  • LCCMR Resolution
  • Letter of Support-State Park Road Account-Gull Rock Boat launch
  • Approval of SAP 039-629-001
  • Approval for NACE Attendance & Travel
  • Transfer Old Plow to City
  • NWA Transfer Station Camera Purchase

9:30 a.m.  #5 Veterans of LOTW County

  • VSO Issues

9:45 a.m. #6 Human Resources

  • Permission to Advertise/Interview/Hire-Solid Waste Processor

9:50a.m. #7 Arena Board-Demo Fees

10:00 a.m. #8 Adjourn

10:05a.m. #9 Work Session (Solid Waste)

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

March 11, 2025

March 11, 2025

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, March 11, 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 Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with changes: Add: Affidavit for Lost Warrant, LOW Women of Today-Prom Donation Request, DOGE-FSA/SWCD Lease, Legislative Update, MCIT Insurance Update-Roof Repair, Minor Equipment Purchases, Surveyor Grant Update, Headstart/Preschool Update.

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 February 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 $10,796.09; Commissioners Warrants $3,021.69; Commissioners Warrants $62,240.20.

City of Baudette

Old Care Center-Demo Fees

Mayor Dylan Hancharyk came to the board on behalf of the City of Baudette to give an update on the demolition of the old care center building and asked for the demo fees at the landfill be waived for the completion of the project.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to waive the landfill demo fees for the old care center demolition project.

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 $122,395.34; Road & Bridge $12,352.37; County Development $200.00; Solid Waste $20,196.87.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 3/11/2025 For Payment 3/14/2025

Vendor Name                                                          Amount

ByteSpeed, LLC 3,251.00 

Co-Op Services, Inc. 2,424.52 

Counties Providing Technology 4,452.00 

Esri 28,400.00 

Hoffman, Philipp & Martell, PLLC 3,750.00 

Integris LLC 5,843.33 

Koochiching County Sheriff 2,220.00 

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 29,550.00 

Law Offices Of Patrick D. Moren 12,338.66 

Mar-Kit Landfill 11,461.75 

Rainy Lake Oil, Inc 2,253.01 

Schneider Geospatial, LLC 12,192.00 

Woody’s Service 7,681.43 

48 Payments less than 2000 29,326.88 

Final Total 155,144.58

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: February 26,2025 for $120,056.81; February 26,2025 for $2,520.70; March 4, 2025 for $55,438.33.

Affidavit of Lost Warrant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Affidavit of Lost Warrant number 41682.

LOW Woment of Today- Prom Donation

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to donate $200.00 out of levied funds to the post prom party.

Public Works

Updates

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

Minor Equipment Purchases

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following purchases from True North: 

Highway Department: Power Rake-$11,188.00

Landfill: Grapple for Bobcat-$5,500

Surveyor Grant Update

An update was given regarding the PLSS restoration project.

Human Resources

Permission to Hire

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to hire Kimberly Fish as Eligibility Worker at Grade 11, Step 1, $24.89 per hour at 262 points.

Set Public Hearing-Small Cities Housing Rehabilitation Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to set a public hearing for the small cities housing rehabilitation grant for April 8th, 2025 at 10:00a.m. 

Headstart/Preschool Update

The board discussed the possibility of a private owned preschool operating out of the headstart room at the school. The business was proposed at a previous school board meeting.

Legislative Update

Commissioner Ed Arnesen gave an update regarding his recent trip to the capitol to meet with Legislators.

MCIT Insurance Update-Roof Repair

MIS Director Peder Hovland, Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson, and Maintenance Supervisor Shane Shaw gave an update regarding damage to computer equipment and water damage caused by a crack in the roof. 

Myles Hogenson

New Trail Update

Myles Hogenson met with the board to give an upate regarding the Kooch Indian Pines trail.

ANTI ATV Bill

Mr. Hogenson informed the board of a new bill introduced that would restrict off road vehicles and snowmobiles use of public lands and requested a letter of support in favor of the use of public lands for trails. It was the consensus of the board to provide a letter of support opposing the restrictions.

DOGE-FSA/SWCD Lease

Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund discussed recent DOGE funding terminations that will affect FSA and SWCD leases in Lake of the Woods County. The terminations have been listed on the official government website for DOGE. 

Adjourn

Motion

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

Attest: March 25, 2025

________________________________             _________________________________Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Jon Waibel

March 11, 2025

AGENDA

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

TIME TAB

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

Approval of Agenda 

Approve Minutes of February 25, 2025

9:05 a.m. #2 Social Services

  • Claims

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

  • Claims

9:15 a.m. #4 Public Works

  • Updates

9:30 a.m.  #5 City of Baudette

  • Old Care Center-Demo Fees

9:45 a.m. #6 Human Resources

  • Permission to Hire

10:00a.m. #7 John Wynne

  • Set Public Hearing (April 8th)

10:15 a.m. #8 Myles Hogenson

  • New Trail
  • Anti ATV Group-New Bill

10:30 a.m. #9 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

February 25, 2025

Tuesday, February 25, 2025
at Lake of the Woods School

TIME TAB

8:15 a.m. #1 (Period 1) Pledge to the Flag

Introductions

Approve Agenda

Approve Minutes of February 11, 2024

8:20 a.m. #2 Pine to Prairie                                                        

9:10 a.m. #3 (Period 2)   Borderland Treatment Court

10:05 a.m. #4 (Period 3) DNR-Matt Skoog

11:00 a.m. #5 (Period 4) Toward Zero Death                                                 

11:51 a.m. #6 LUNCH

1:19 p.m. #7 (Period 5) Introductions

1:30 p.m. #8 Social Services

  • Claims

1:35 p.m. #9 Auditor-Treasurer

  • Claims

1:40 p.m. #10 Public Works

  • Updates

1:50 p.m. #11 Prevention Coalition

2:00 p.m. #12 Mike Hirst

  • Letter of Support-Keep it Clean

2:14 p.m. #13 (Period 6) Department of Corrections
3:05 p.m. #14 Adjourn

February 11, 2025

AGENDA

Tuesday, February 11, 2025

TIME TAB

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

Approval of Agenda 

Approve Minutes of January 28, 2025

9:05 a.m. #2 Social Services

  • Claims
  • Contract Approval

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

  • Claims
  • Gambling Permit Approval

9:15 a.m. #4 Public Works

  • Updates
  • LCCMR Letter of Support
  • Semi-Truck Purchase
  • Credit Card for Corey Olson

9:30 a.m.            #5 Land & Water

  • IUP#25-01IU-Lundbohm
  • CUP#25-01CU-Kasella

9:40 a.m. #6 DNR

10:10 a.m. #7 Legislative Update

10:20 a.m. #8 NWA Edgeriders Trails 

10:30 a.m. #9 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# 

February 11, 2025

February 11, 2025

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, February 11, 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 Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with changes: Add: Northwest Community Action.

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 January 28, 2025.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $8,576.79; Commissioners Warrants $3,333.89; Commissioners Warrants $26,182.02.

Purchase of Service Agreement-Stellher Human Services, Inc.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of services agreement between Stellher Human Services, Inc. and Lake of the Woods County Social Services for child crisis response services.

Northwest Community Action-Headstart Discussion

Northwest Community Action Executive Director Sharon Millner discussed the decision to close the Headstart program in Lake of the Woods County. She explained that it is to adhere to federal grant guidelines and answered questions from the board. 

Land & Water

Consideration of Interim Use Permit #25-01IU by Andrew and Rachel Lundbohm 

Lot Two (2), Block Two (2) of Angle Outpost Acres in Section Twenty-six (26), Township One Hundred Sixty-eight (168) North, Range Thirty-four (34) West (Angle) – Parcel ID# 02.57.02.020. 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 Development Zoning District (R2). Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the following IUP/Findings of fact #25-01IU by Andrew and Rachel Lundbohm to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Rural Residential Development Zoning District (R2). Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Short-Term Vacation Rental Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Andrew & Rachel Lundbohm Date:  February 11, 2025

Location/Legal Description:  Lot Two (2), Block Two (2), Angle Outpost Acres Parcel Number:  02.57.02.020

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting an Interim Use Permit, as required by Section 401.B of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance, to operate a short-term vacation rental in a Residential 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?  Resort and recreational destination.
  2. Is the project proposal consistent with maintaining the public health, safety, and welfare? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  ) Explain?  Applicant has met the criteria based upon the submitted application.
  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?  Public road, Dawson Road.
  1. Has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the traffic and parking are to be addressed? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  ) Explain?  No change with traffic and parking will be on-site.
  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 four (4) 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 2-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 7:00 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 (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  ) 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 four (4) individuals.
  3. The established quiet hours are from 10:00 pm to 7:00 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  (  )

February 11, 2025 _____________________________________

Date Jon Waibel Chair, County Board

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

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit Application #25-01CU by Rob Kasella (Brent Fredrickson Agent)

A tract in Government Lot Three (3), Section Seventeen (17), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West – Parcel ID# 19.17.24.030 (For Reference Only). Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401.B of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to allow a commercial use consisting of a private winter ice fishing access road to Lake of the Woods in a Residential Development Zoning District (R1). Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following CUP/Findings of Fact #25-01CU by Rob Kasella (Brent Fredrickson Agent) to allow a commercial use consisting of a private winter ice fishing access road to Lake of the Woods in a Residential Development Zoning District (R1). Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Robert Kasella Date:  February 11, 2025

Location/Legal Description:  A tract in Government Lot Three (3), Section Seventeen (17), Township One Hundred Sixty-two (162) North, Range Thirty-two (32) West – Parcel ID# 19.17.24.030 (For Reference Only).

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 401.B of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to allow a commercial use consisting of a private winter ice fishing access road to Lake of the Woods 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 (  ) Why or why not?  Lake access.
  2. Is the project proposal consistent with maintaining the public health, safety, and welfare? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X) Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________
  3. Is the project proposal consistent with the goal of preventing and controlling water pollution, including sedimentation and nutrient loading?                        YES (  ) NO (  )  N/A (X) Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________
  4. Will the project proposal not adversely affect the site’s existing topography, drainage features, and vegetative cover?                                            YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  ) Why or why not?  No change.
  5. Is the project proposal’s site location reasonable in relation to any floodplain and/or floodway of rivers or tributaries? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X) Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________
  6. Has the erosion potential of the site based upon the degree and direction of slope, soil type and existing vegetative cover been adequately addressed for the project proposal? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X) Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________
  7. Is the site in harmony with existing and proposed access roads?     YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  ) Why or why not?  Graceton Beach Road.
  8. Is the project proposal compatible with adjacent land uses? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  ) Why or why not?  Lake access.
  9. Does the project proposal have a reasonable need to be in a shoreland location? YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  ) Why or why not?  Lake access.
  10. Is the amount of liquid waste to be generated reasonable and the proposed sewage disposal system adequate to accommodate the project proposal? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X) Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________
  11. Will the visibility of structures and other facilities as viewed from public waters comply with Section 901 of the Zoning Ordinance?         YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X) Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________
  12. Is the site adequate for water supply and on-site sewage treatment systems? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X) Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________
  13. Are the affected public waters suited to and able to safely accommodate the types, uses, and numbers of watercraft that the project proposal will generate? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X) Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________
  14. If the project proposal includes above ground or below ground storage tanks for petroleum or other hazardous material that is subject to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) requirements, has a permit been sought? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X) Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________
  15. Will there be fencing and/or other screening provided to buffer the project proposal from adjacent properties? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X) Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________
  16. If signage is associated with the project proposal, has the applicant demonstrated the need for the number and size requested, and minimized the visual appearance as viewed from adjacent properties to the extent possible?  YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X) Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________
  17. If the project proposal will generate additional traffic to or from the site, has the applicant adequately demonstrated how the additional traffic and parking is to be addressed? YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X) Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________________

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

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

  1. The Conditional Use Permit expires upon sale or transfer of the property, except if sold or transferred to the designated agent, as identified in application #25-01CU.
  2. No parking or storage of vehicles, ice fishing equipment, or any other related items pertaining to the project proposal shall occur on the property.
  3. A single four (4) foot x eight (8) foot sign is allowed, and it must state that this is a private road only. It is not for public access. The sign shall be seasonal and is allowed to be placed on the property from December 1 – April 30.
  4. No parking or storage is allowed on County Road 4.
  5. Must be in compliance with the Lake of the Woods County Solid Waste Ordinance.

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

    February 11, 2025 _____________________________________

Date Jon Waibel Chair, County Board

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

Department of Natural Resources

Peatland Project Director Meredith Cornett reviewed the winter road peatland scientific and natural areas. 

Public Works

LCCMR Letter of Support

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the letter of support for the DNR and the LCCMR Lake of the Woods Southern Shore Barrier Island Erosion Investigation Phase II Grant.

Credit Card Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve a credit card for Corey Olson in the amount of $1500.00, the standard amount for Lake of the Woods County.

Semi-Truck Purchase Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the purchase of a 2018 Freightliner Semi-truck in the amount of $55,000.00.

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects.

Legislative Update

Commissioner Ed Arnesen gave a legislative update regarding the Williams school building and discussion with lobbyists.

NWA Edgeriders Trails

Commissioner Ed Arnesen discussed the NWA Edgeriders Trails and possible timber sales with the DNR.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $97,662.35; Road & Bridge $20,772.46; Joint Ditch $465.00; Solid Waste $34,128.30.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 2/11/2025 For Payment 2/14/2025

Vendor Name Amount

Auto Value Baudette 4,238.94 

Co-Op Services, Inc. 12,188.82 

Farmers Union Oil company 2,552.14 

Law Offices Of Patrick D. Moren 12,338.66 

LOW Highway Dept 2,230.00 

LOW Soil & Water Cons. Dist. 71,369.00 

Northdale Oil Inc. 11,947.68 

Nw Mn Household Hazardous   6,978.50 

R & Q Trucking, Inc 4,872.00 

47 Payments less than 2000 24,312.37

Final Total: 153,028.11

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: February 5,2025 for $69,186.78.

Gambling Permit

Resolution

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

RESOLUTION APPROVING 

LAWFUL GAMBLING ACTIVITY AND PREMISES PERMIT APPLICATION RESOLUTION NO. 25-02-01

WHEREAS; the Baudette Fire Department Relief Association has submitted a lease for lawful gambling activity and a premises permit application for Minnesota Lawful Gambling to be conducted at the following establishment, which is located in Lake of the Woods County:

Bugsy’s on Bostic 3984 County Road 8 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.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 10:45 a.m.

Attest: February 25, 2025

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Jon Waibel

January 28th, 2025

AGENDA

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

TIME TAB

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

Approval of Agenda 

Approve Minutes of January 14, 2025

9:05 a.m. #2 Social Services

  • Claims

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

  • Claims
  • Review Old/New Business (Rev/Exp)

9:15 a.m. #4 Sheriff

  • FY23 Stonegarden Resolution

9:20 a.m. #5 Emergency Management

  • 2023 EMPG Grant

9:25 a.m. #6 Mike Hirst-Friends of Zippel Bay State Park

9:40 a.m. #7   Alan Thompson

9:55 a.m. #8 Public Works

  • Updates
  • Approval to Bid SAP 039-629-001

10:05 a.m. #9 Boat & Water Grant

10:15 a.m. #10 Closed Session

10:45 a.m. #11 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

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# 

January 28, 2025

  COMMISSIONER PROCEEDINGS

January 28, 2025

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, January 28, 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 Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the agenda with changes: Add: 2024 EMPG Grant, Legislative Update, Koochiching Jail Update.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of January 14, 2025.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $11,931.39; Commissioners Warrants $1,861.80; Commissioners Warrants $55,066.48.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnsen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $81,740.85; Road & Bridge $27,091.16; Solid Waste $9,956.83; EDA $1,833.27.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 1/28/2025 For Payment 1/31/2025

Vendor Name Amount

 ByteSpeed, LLC – 2,555.99 

Clay County Sheriff – 2,507.75 

Compass Minerals America – 10,354.26 

Counties Providing Technology  – 4,452.00 

Country Inn & Suites – Shoreview – 2,695.22 

HRDC – 3,500.00 

Information Systems Corporation – 11,632.00 

Marco Technologies LLC – 2,170.44 

North East Technical Service,Inc – 2,425.00 

Northdale Oil Inc. – 14,671.79 

Pemberton Law, P.L.L.P. – 3,357.50 

Pennington County Sheriff Office – 14,270.34 

Roseau Police Dept – 5,000.00 

Sandpieper Design Inc. – 4,852.27 

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance – 6,268.50 

University of North Dakota – 9,520.90 

36 Payments less than 2000  20,388.15

Final Total: 120,622.11

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: January 15, 2025 for $330,652.82; January 15, 2025 for $305,809.48; January 22, 2025 for $10,776.61.

Add to Old/New Business

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to add Revenue & Expenditure to old/new business on the agenda.

Legislative Update

Commissioner Ed Arnesen gave an update regarding his recent meeting at the capitol.

Sheriff

Stonegarden Sheriff Salary

Resolution

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

AMEND COUNTY SHERIFF SALARY

Resolution No. 25-01-05

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

WHEREAS, in an effort to assist local governments in fulfilling this request, the Department of Homeland Security through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division, offered “Operation Stonegarden 2023 grant; and,

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office is a successful recipient of an Operation Stonegarden 2023 grant; and,

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

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

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

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

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the resolution setting the sheriff’s salary, as originally set by this board on December 17, 2024 was $109,306.80 and fringe benefits were $20,932.25, be amended so that the sheriff’s salary is increased by the sum up to $16,752.00 and fringe benefits are increased up to $3,208.01 commencing January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025, with the increase funding from the Operation Stonegarden 2023 grant contingent upon the following:

1.  That the Operation Stonegarden 2023 grant funding be available; and

2. That the Sheriff works, in addition to his regular duties, eight (8) hours per week of said Operation Stonegarden 2023 grant.

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

Emergency Management

2023 EMPG Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the 2023 EMPG Grant in the amount of $14,120.00 and for Chair Jon Waibel and County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

2024 EMPG Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the 2024 EMPG Grant and for Chair Jon Waibel and County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same when it becomes available.

Mike Hirst-Friends of Zippel Bay State Park (FZBSP)

Mike Hirst gave an update regarding various projects including grooming of trails and requested $2000.00 on behalf of Friends of Zippel Bay State Park to fund maintenance projects.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request for $2000.00 out of con-con funds.

Alan Thompson-Wheelers Sanitation

Alan Thompson came to the board to request approval to change the wheelers sanitation board bylaws to have an annual meeting instead of monthly meetings. It was the consensus of the board to have an attorney amend the bylaws and then return for approval.

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects.

Approval to Bid SAP 039-629-001

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to bid SAP 039-629-001.

Boat & Water Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Boat & Water grant as presented by Sergeant Ben Duick in the amount of $75,213.00.

Koochiching Jail Update

Chair Jon Waibel gave an update regarding the progress of the Koochiching jail.

Closed Session

Resolution

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

Resolution Closing Board Meeting

Resolution No. 25-01-06

WHEREAS, the Minnesota Open Meeting Law, Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(b) states that “meetings may be closed if the closure is expressly authorized by statute or permitted by the attorney-client privilege”; and

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County received correspondence from Canadian National Railway Company dated October 18, 2024 threatening litigation regarding solid waste tax assessments; and   

WHEREAS, County Attorney Moren and Engineer Pirkl met with CNR counsel on January 22, 2025 to discuss the threatened litigation and engage in settlement discussions; and

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Board seeks to meet with its attorney, to discuss the threatened litigation and potential settlement; and

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

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

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

  1. The Lake of the Woods County Board hereby closes this meeting based upon the attorney-client privilege pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(b); and
  1. The specific subjects to be discussed, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.01, subd. 3, are the allegations and responses to the threatened litigation by Canadian National Railway Company and potential settlement proposals. 

Adopted by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota this 28th day of January, 2025. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the closed session and open the regular meeting at 10:45a.m.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to adjust solid waste assessments as necessary.

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to set a work session for solid waste for March 25, 2025 following the regular board meeting.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 10:50 a.m.

Attest: February 11, 2025

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Jon Waibel

January 14, 2025

AGENDA

Friday, January 14, 2024

TIME TAB

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

Approval of Agenda

Approve Minutes of December 27, 2024 

Approve Minutes of January 7, 2025

9:05 a.m. #2 Social Services

  • Claims
  • POS Northland Counseling 2025-26

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

  • Claims
  • County Surveyor Contract
  • Audit Engagement Letter

9:15 a.m. #4 Sheriff

  • FY23 Stonegarden Resolution
  • Boat & Water Grant

9:20 a.m. #5 Public Works

  • Updates
  • Tech I to Tech II
  • Landfill Bids
  • Tim Aery Retirement

9:30 a.m. #6 Attorney

9:45 a.m. #7 Land & Water

  • CUP #25-01CU

 9:55 a.m. #8 Closed Session

  • Resolution Close/Open
  • Closed Session Pursuant to 13D.05,Subd. 3(d)
  • Motion Close/Open

10:30 a.m. #9 Adjourn

10:35 a.m. #10 Work Sessions

Correspondence: Minnkota Power

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

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January 14, 2025

  COMMISSIONER PROCEEDINGS

January 14, 2025

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

CALL TO ORDER

Chair Jon Waibel called the meeting to order at 9:00a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Cody Hasbargen, Joe Grund, Jon Waibel, Ed Arnesen, and Buck Nordlof. 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 changes: Add: Employee Recognition, Safe Child Consultation Contract, Maintenance Liaison, and Resolution of Support-Bonding.

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 27, 2024.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of January 7, 2025 with changes.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $33,949.41; Commissioners Warrants $2,290.23; Commissioners Warrants $15,397.99.

Purchase of Services Agreement-Northland Counseling

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously with Commissioner Cody Hasbargen abstaining to approve the Purchase of Services agreement with Northland Counseling effective January 1, 2025-December 31,2026.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $227,751.75; Road & Bridge $86,792.87; Solid Waste $40,330.13; EDA $20,365.00.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 1/14/2025 For Payment 1/17/2025

Vendor Name Amount

Air Med Care Network 16,803.00 

ByteSpeed, LLC – 2,129.00 

Headwaters Regional Dev Commiss – 20,000.00 

KRIS Engineering Inc – 4,404.40 

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys – 17,892.50 

M-R Sign Co, Inc – 5,345.82 

Mar-Kit Landfill – 11,682.50 

Mn Assn Of Counties – 9,146.00 

Mn Counties Computer Co-Op – 20,920.68 

MN Counties Intergovernmental Trst – 205,884.00 

Mn State Dept-Correction – 18,639.00 

Northern Light Region – 4,848.00 

OnSolve,LLC – 7,875.00 

Quadient Finance USA Inc. – 2,000.00 

Ziegler, Inc – 4,874.44 

39  Payments less than  2000 – 22,795.41

Final Total: 375,239.75

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: December 31, 2024 for $3,996.21; December 31, 2024 for $100,029.79; December 31, 2024 for $9,986.31; January 8, 2025 for $65,437.90.

County Surveyor Contract Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Professional Services contract for County Surveyor with Bolton & Menk and for Chair Jon Waibel, Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson, and County Attorney Michelle Moren to sign the same.

Audit Engagement Letter

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Audit Engagement Letter, for the year ended December 31, 2024, with Hoffman, Philipp, & Martell, PLLC and for the Chair Jon Waibel and Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Employee Recognition

Chair Jon Waibel presented the 2024 Steven R. Sindelir Memorial Award for Excellence to Deputy Auditor-Treasurer Anna Sanchez.

Resolution of Support

Resolution

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

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY, MINNESOTA

SUPPORTING A BONDING BILL FOR

 CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW COUNTY LAW ENFORCEMENT CENTER

RESOLUTION 2025-01-03

Supporting the County’s request for bonding money to provide a new law enforcement center.

WHEREAS, As of July 1, 2021, the Minnesota Department of Corrections  (DOC) has found the existing Lake of the Woods County Jail to be structurally deficient and in need of major renovations or replacement, and has required the County to transfer inmates to an alternative facility until alternative facilities have been built; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to DOC mandates, inmates can be held at the existing county jail for a maximum time period of 72 hours (which can be extended only if the Court has authorized that specific inmate can have Huber and/or STS privileges); and

WHEREAS, due to the limitations imposed by DOC, the County has been required to house inmates in other jail facilities in neighboring counties, resulting in transportation time and expenses, and the cost of housing the inmates outside of the Lake of the Woods County jail; and

WHEREAS, the County Board has considered the practicality and future costs of all alternatives; factoring in the County’s considerable distances to alternative facilities and the uncertain availability and cost of such arrangements; and has determined that building a new Law Enforcement Center is the most viable response to the Department of Corrections’ mandate; and 

WHEREAS, the aforementioned project is the most fiscally responsible option and will result in near-term and long-term economic and public safety benefits to County residents and businesses, as well as non-resident visitors and businesses, and

WHEREAS, the construction of a new Law Enforcement Center will require funding from a state bonding bill; and 

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

The County Board urges all lawmakers to work to pass a bonding bill in the current legislative session, which includes funding appropriations for the Lake of the Woods County Law Enforcement project.

Maintenance Liaison

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously for Commissioner Joe Grund to be Maintenance Liaison.

Sheriff

FY23 Stonegarden Resolution

The board reviewed the FY23 Stonegarden resolution. No action was taken at this time.

Boat & Water Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen and carried unanimously to approve the Boat & Water Grant Assessment as presented by Sergeant Ben Duick and for  Commissioners: Jon Waibel, Joe Grund, Cody Hasbargen, Ed Arnesen, and Buck Nordlof, Sheriff Gary Fish, Sergeant Ben Duick, and Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

PUBLIC WORKS
Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various projects.

Landfill Bids

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl reviewed bids received for the capping of the landfill. No action was taken at this time.

Tech II to Tech III

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to move Wyatt Erickson from Tech II to Tech III at Grade 13, Step 6, $30.14 per hour at 396 points.

Retirement Resolution- Tim Aery

Resolution

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

Recognition of Years of Service

Timothy Aery

Resolution No. 2025-01-02

WHEREAS: Timothy Aery has served Lake of the Woods County as a Heavy Equipment Operator since June 27, 1994;

WHEREAS: Tim will retire from Lake of the Woods County effective January 17, 2025 with more than thirty years of service;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That Lake of the Woods Board of County Commissioners extends its deepest appreciation to Timothy for his dedicated service and wishes him well on his retirement.

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

Attorney

Safe Child Consultation Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Safe Child Consultation contract between University of Minnesota Physicians and Lake of the Woods County and for County Attorney Michelle Moren to sign the same.

Temporary Office Assistant 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the request to hire Diane Rosen as temporary office assistant at Grade 13, Step 12, $33.43 per hour plus IRS mileage rate of .70 cents effective January 16, 2025.

Land & Water

Consideration of Conditional Use Permit #25-01CU by Kyle and Kati Christianson

Lot Twenty (20), Long Point Subdivision of Lake Shore of Government Lot Five (5) of Section Thirty-six (36), Township One Hundred Sixty-four (164) North, Range Thirty-four (34) West (Lakewood) – Parcel ID# 14.52.00.200. Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to move more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of shoreline stabilization due to the 2022 high water event. Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the following Conditional Use Permit/Findings of fact #25-01CU by Kyle and Kati Christianson to move more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of shoreline stabilization due to the 2022 high water event. Lake of the Woods is a General Development Lake.

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Findings of Fact and Decision

Name of Applicant:  Kyle & Kati Christianson

Date:  January 14, 2025

Location/Legal Description:  Lot Twenty (20), Long Point Subdivision of Lake Shore of Government Lot Five (5) of Section Thirty-six (36), Township One Hundred Sixty-four (164) North, Range Thirty-four (34) West (Lakewood) – Parcel ID# 14.52.00.200.

Project Proposal:  Applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit as required by Section 902 of the Lake of the Woods County Zoning Ordinance to move more than ten (10) cubic yards of material within the shore impact zone of Lake of the Woods for the purpose of shoreline stabilization due to the 2022 high water event.

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

Why or why not?  Shoreline stabilization

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not?  ___________________________________________________________________

  1. Is the project proposal consistent with the goal of preventing and controlling water pollution, including sedimentation and nutrient loading?
    YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Will provide some level of sedimentation loading which prevents water pollution. 

4. Will the project proposal not adversely affect the site’s existing topography, drainage features, and vegetative cover?
YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  No change.

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

Why or why not?  The project location is within the floodplain of Lake of the Woods. 

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

Why or why not?  The project proposal is to further reduce erosion from the property.

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not?  Seasonal cabins.

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

YES (X)  NO (  )  N/A (  )

Why or why not?  Lake of the Woods.

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

YES (  )  NO (  )  N/A (X)

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ___________________________________________________________________

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

Why or why not? ____________________________________________________________________

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

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

  1. Proper temporary and permanent erosion control methods are to be implemented.

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

January 14, 2025 _____________________________________

Date Jon Waibel

Chair, County Board

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

Closed Session

Resolution

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

Resolution Closing Board Meeting

Resolution No. 2025-01-04

WHEREAS, Lake of the Woods County will discuss the organizations practices that support cybersecurity; and

WHEREAS, the disclosure of the information discussed would pose a danger to compromise security procedures or responses;

WHEREAS, pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 13D.05, Subd.3(d), the County board by resolution may close a meeting to discuss the security reports;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby closes the County Board meeting on January 14, 2025 in order to discuss ongoing security strategies. 

Motion

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

Correspondence

The board reviewed correspondence from Minnkota Power.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Cody Hasbargen, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 10:45 a.m.

Attest: January 28, 2025

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Jon Waibel