Carlton County public meetings in 2023

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to set 2024 salaries, levies, and budgets for the county and unorganized townships. The agenda also includes a request to approve a rate increase for Human Development Center case management services.

• Update HDC Case Management rate from $226.21 to $233.70
• Set 2024 salaries for Sheriff, County Attorney, and Board of Commissioners
• Approve 2024 final revenue and expenditure budgets
• Set 2024 payable levy
• Review Host County Contract with SLC for LSS Emergency Shelter

Board of Adjustment

The Carlton County Board of Adjustment and Appeals will meet to consider two variance applications (cases #323019 and #323020) during public hearings. The agenda also includes approval of the October 17, 2023 meeting minutes and a statement on the finality of decisions. No old or other business is listed.

• Public hearing on variance application #323019 by Kyle Kauppila
• Public hearing on variance application #323020 by Cory Drake
• Approval of October 17, 2023 meeting minutes
• Legal ad published in Star Gazette (Dec 7) and Pine Knot News (Dec 8)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review administrative and financial items for Public Health & Human Services. One specific action involves considering the renewal of a contract with the First Witness Child Advocacy Center.

• Renewal of contract with First Witness Child Advocacy Center

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is conducting a Truth in Taxation public meeting to provide an overview of the property tax system. The session includes a review of the proposed 2024 budget, department levy comparisons, and information regarding property tax refunds and senior citizen deferrals.

• Review of the proposed 2024 Budget
• Review of 2024 Levy Comparison by Department
• Discussion of property tax refunds and senior citizen tax deferrals
• Final adoption of the 2024 Carlton County Budget and Levy scheduled for December 26, 2023

Planning Commission

The Carlton County Planning Commission meeting scheduled for December 6, 2023, has been cancelled. The agenda contains only a cancellation notice with no items for discussion or decision.

• Meeting cancelled

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing a contract for Carlton County to provide child support services for Cook County through 2024. Under the proposed agreement, Cook County would pay Carlton County $136,000 for these services.

• 2024 Cook County Child Support Services Agreement ($136,000)
• Construction agreements with the City of Cloquet and City of Scanlon
• Sponsorship of LRIP applications for the Cities of Moose Lake, Scanlon, and Cromwell
• Justice Center Change Order approval
• Approval of EMS contract for Sawyer Township

Board of Adjustment

The Carlton County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for November 21, 2023, is cancelled. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting.

• November 21, 2023, Board of Adjustment meeting cancelled

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners meeting includes discussions regarding Public Health & Human Services, specifically focusing on financial, personnel, and administrative matters. Items include the MTM Joint Powers Agreement addition and various social services updates.

• MTM Joint Powers Agreement addition
• Children's Mental Health Screening Grant
• Contracted Case Management
• Family & Children's Services position refill request

Committee of the Whole

The Carlton County Committee of the Whole will hear a presentation on state legislation for outdoor school funding, receive an update on the Justice Center construction, and discuss lobbying priorities. The agenda also includes routine reports on property management, income maintenance, and transportation. The meeting is informational and discussion-focused, with no formal votes scheduled.

• Presentation on Outdoor School for All Minnesota legislation (HF 3321/SF 3347) by Bryan Wood, Osprey Wilds
• Justice Center construction update by Paul Coughlin
• Arrowhead Counties Association 2024 Legislative Priorities ballot
• Income Maintenance Report
• Transportation update

Planning Commission

The Carlton County Planning Commission is meeting to hold public hearings on two conditional use applications: one from Iverson Inn, Inc. (case 423002) and one from Brian Grover (case 423007). After the hearings, the commission will close the public hearing and resume its regular meeting to review the Model Floodplain Ordinance and conduct other business. The agenda also includes routine items such as approving the October 4, 2023 minutes and the agenda itself.

• Public hearing: Conditional Use – 423002 Iverson Inn, Inc.
• Public hearing: Conditional Use – 423007 Brian Grover
• Review Model Floodplain Ordinance
• Legal ad published in Star Gazette (Oct 19, 2023) and Pine Knot News (Oct 20, 2023)

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss several personnel changes, including refilling a Child Support Officer position at a reduced capacity and filling a Chief Deputy Zoning Administrator role. The agenda also includes a request to offer the former Youth Shelter in Cloquet for sale.

• Refill Child Support Officer position from 1.0 to 0.5 FTE
• Approve refilling Chief Deputy Zoning & Environmental Services Administrator position
• Request to offer the former Youth Shelter in Cloquet for sale
• Consider Jail Control Center Order
• Select proposal or negotiate contract for Communications Tower

Board of Adjustment

The Carlton County Board of Adjustment and Appeals will hold public hearings on four variance applications (cases #323016, #323017, #323014, #323018) from Kim Hallgren, Scott Kubat, Jennifer Serafin, and Steve and Deb Schley. The board will also approve minutes from the September 19, 2023 meeting. No old or other business is listed.

• Public hearing on variance #323016 (Kim Hallgren)
• Public hearing on variance #323017 (Scott Kubat)
• Public hearing on variance #323014 (Jennifer Serafin)
• Public hearing on variance #323018 (Steve and Deb Schley)
• Legal ad published in Star Gazette (Oct 5) and Pine Knot News (Oct 6)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing the 2024-2025 Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) biennial agreement, which includes a $485,372 allocation for Carlton County. The meeting also addresses several personnel matters, including requests to refill a clinical social worker position and a senior legal secretary position.

• 2024-2025 MFIP Biennial Service Agreement with $485,372 total allocation
• Refill request for Mental Health Professional-Clinical Supervision Social Worker position
• Refill request for Senior Legal Secretary position due to resignation
• Approval of extension for unpaid leave through 10/13/2023
• Consideration of Wetland Conservation Ace Replacement Plan #623005

Planning Commission

The Carlton County Planning Commission is meeting to hold a public hearing on one rezoning request and two conditional use applications, then will consider a separate conditional use for Iverson Inn, Inc. The hearing follows legal notices published in the Star Gazette and Pine Knot News in September.

• Rezoning – 523003 Glen Kowitz
• Conditional Use – 423005 Jeffery and Mary Hohensee-Mayer
• Conditional Use – 423006 Douglas and Barb Omar DBA Omar's Sand and Gravel
• Conditional Use – 423002 Iverson Inn, Inc.

Committee of the Whole

The Carlton County Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss several items, including a proposal to contract case management for 60-80 disability and long-term care cases starting January 1, 2024, a fraud investigation presentation, an AmeriCorps program report, and a property management update. The board will also discuss lobbying priorities and receive department updates. No formal votes are scheduled; most items are for discussion or information.

• Proposal to contract case management for 60-80 waiver cases, budget neutral, starting Jan 1, 2024
• Fraud presentation: 2023 referrals projected at 52, with 20 IPVs; overpayments totaling $118,089.65 in 2023
• AmeriCorps report: 18,046 service hours, 562 students served, $67,312 in education awards since 2021
• Property management update: year-to-date expenditures $679,750.02 against $1,106,419 annual budget
• Discussion of lobbying priorities for the county

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing a contract with United Way of Carlton County to provide rental and housing assistance. The meeting also includes discussions on the 2024 proposed budget, levy, and various grant applications.

• $6,427 contract with United Way for Local Homeless Prevention Aid
• Issuance and sale of $15 million in General Obligation Bonds
• Sale of parcel 06-005-1380 to the City of Cloquet
• Approval of 2024 Unorganized Township Budgets and Levies
• Approval of St. Louis River Watershed budget

Board of Adjustment

The Carlton County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on two variance requests. The board will consider allowing a lot line adjustment that creates nonconforming lots and a nonconforming septic system, and allowing an addition to a nonconforming dwelling with excess lot coverage.

• Variance #323014: Jennifer Serafin, 3151 and 3155 Maple Drive, Cloquet, MN — lot line adjustment creating nonconforming septic and lots
• Variance #323015: Keith and Joyce Lilyquist, 4876 Mirror Way — addition and screen porch, retain lot coverage over 25% standard
• Public hearing at Carlton County Transportation Building, 1630 County Road 61, Carlton, MN

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing proposals to terminate a solid waste transportation agreement with SKB Environmental and enter a new agreement with Carlson Timber Products, Inc. Additionally, the board is considering requests to refill and temporarily increase staffing for Eligibility Specialists in Public Health and Human Services.

• Termination of agreement with SKB Environmental for solid waste transportation
• New agreement with Carlson Timber Products, Inc. for solid waste transportation
• Request to refill one full-time Eligibility Specialist position
• Request to temporarily increase Eligibility Specialist staffing by 1.0 FTE until December 3/1/2024
• Consideration of rezoning permit #523002 for Otter Creek Cottage LLC

The commissioners terminated the solid‑waste hauling contract with SKB Environmental effective September 30, 2023 and approved a new contract with Carlson Timber Products, Inc. They also approved rezoning of the Nielsen property, a conditional use permit for Tom Kraemer, Inc., and an interim use permit for Kevin Halverson’s coffee roastery. The board accepted a $90,339.68 state transportation grant and approved several staffing and payroll actions.

• Approved termination of SKB Environmental solid‑waste hauling contract (all yea votes)
• Approved award of solid‑waste hauling contract to Carlson Timber Products, Inc. (all yea votes)
• Approved rezoning of 1776 & 1778 County Road 5 from A‑1 to A‑2 (all yea votes)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Tom Kraemer, Inc. shipping‑container business (all yea votes)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for Kevin Halverson coffee roastery (all yea votes)
• Accepted $90,339.68 grant from Minnesota State Transportation Fund (all yea votes)
• Approved hiring process for three correctional officers starting Jan 2024 (all yea votes)
• Approved payroll grade change for County Assessor from 210 to 220 (all yea votes)

Planning Commission

The Carlton County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on four land-use applications: two conditional use permits and one rezoning, plus a fourth conditional use. The hearing follows published legal notices in the Star Gazette and Pine Knot News. After the hearing, the commission will reconvene to consider the items and any other business.

• Conditional Use – 423002 Iverson Inn, Inc.
• Rezoning – 523002 Otter Creek Cottage LLC
• Conditional Use – 423003 Tom Kraemer, Inc.
• Conditional Use – 423004 Kevin Halverson

The Planning Commission approved a rezoning request for Otter Creek Cottage LLC and granted several use permits. The board also approved the findings of fact for two specific permit applications.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit #423002 for Iverson Inn, Inc. (6-0)
• Approved Rezoning #523002 for Otter Creek Cottage LLC (6-0)
• Approved Findings of Fact for Conditional Use Permit #423003 Tom Kraemer, Inc. (6-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit #423003 for Tom Kraemer, Inc. with conditions (6-0)
• Approved Findings of Fact for Interim Use Permit #423004 Kevin Halverson (6-0)
• Approved Interim Use Permit #423004 for Kevin Halverson with conditions (6-0)
• Approved June 7, 2023 meeting minutes as amended (6-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (6-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Carlton County Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss and consider the 2024 budget and levy, a NOAA climate resilience grant application, and a solid waste contract. They will also receive updates on the Justice Center, property management, and transportation. The meeting includes approval of the August 1, 2023 minutes and discussion of lobbying priorities.

• 2024 budget and levy for discussion and consideration for adoption
• NOAA Climate Resilience Regional Challenge grant application for $1,527,500
• Solid Waste Contract discussion
• Justice Center update by Paul Coughlin
• Property Management Update

The Committee approved a solid waste contract with Carlson and the filling of a transfer station position. Members reviewed updates on the Justice Center construction and the 2024 preliminary levy recommendation.

• Approved solid waste contract with Carlson
• Approved transfer station position fill
• Approved August 1, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved meeting agenda

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board of Commissioners held a special session to discuss administrative matters. The primary item on the agenda was consideration of a resolution regarding a flooding emergency event.

• Consider Resolution for Flooding Emergency Event

The Board of Commissioners met in a closed session to discuss labor negotiations. No board action was taken during the meeting.

• Approved the agenda
• Adjourned the meeting

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board will discuss and approve a two-year agreement with Moose Lake School District to provide transportation services for children in foster care, sharing costs equally.

• Agreement between Carlton County Public Health & Human Services and Moose Lake School District for transportation of foster children

The Board approved the issuance of general obligation bonds to finance a new law enforcement center, judicial center, and jail. Other actions included approving several Justice Center change orders and various personnel hires across county departments.

• Authorized General Obligation Bonds, Series 2023A for new law enforcement, judicial, and jail facility
• Approved 30-year lease with Bachand Estates LLP for private hangar at Cloquet airport
• Approved $111,784 change order for Justice Center courts audio/visual wiring
• Approved $68,175 change order for Justice Center wood paneling and ceiling
• Approved RFP for design and build of new Justice Center dispatch communications tower
• Approved Foster Care Transportation Agreement with Moose Lake School District (not to exceed $10,000)
• Authorized $2,668.15 final payment to Veit & Company, Inc. for Twp. Rd. 193 project
• Approved tax abatements for parcels PID 27-000-1220, PID 90-010-0960, and PID 21-002-1020

Board of Adjustment

The Carlton County Board of Adjustment and Appeals will hold public hearings on three variance applications (cases #323011, #323012, #323013) from Arien Fleisch, Shane and Terri Kuhlmey, and Nancy Clark. The board will also approve minutes from the July 18 meeting and consider findings of fact to grant variances. No old or other business is listed.

• Public hearing on variance #323011 (Arien Fleisch)
• Public hearing on variance #323012 (Shane and Terri Kuhlmey)
• Public hearing on variance #323013 (Nancy Clark)
• Legal ad published in Star Gazette (Aug 3) and Pine Knot News (Aug 4)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review a purchase of service agreement with Lutheran Social Services for family mediation. The meeting also includes discussions on an unpaid leave request, justice center updates, and various zoning and transportation items.

• Purchase of Service Agreement with Lutheran Social Services for Family Group Decision Making at $100.00 per hour
• Request for board approval of 8-week leave without pay for a county employee
• Acceptance of State of MN 2022 Emergency Management Performance Grant
• Change order notification and kitchen equipment soft costs for the Justice Center
• Consideration of easements to North Country Trail Association and Frontier Communications

The Board of Commissioners approved $132,330 for Justice Center kitchen equipment and authorized several grant applications and agreements, including a Safe Routes to School Boost Grant. The board also established easements for the North Country Trail Association and Frontier Communications.

• Approved $132,330 for Justice Center kitchen equipment from Horizon Equipment LLC
• Adopted Resolution 23-065 to apply for MnDOT Safe Routes to School Boost Grant
• Approved service agreement with Lutheran Social Services for PPP/FGDM services (max $100/hour)
• Approved MOA with Aitkin and Pine counties for septic system review and design ($100/hour plus travel)
• Adopted Resolution 23-066 to establish easements for North Country Trail Association in Wrenshall Township
• Adopted Resolution 23-067 to establish easements for Frontier Communications under the Soo Line Trail
• Adopted Resolution 23-068 to accept $28,153 Emergency Management Performance Grant
• Approved LPP agreement with the City of Cromwell to administer funds

Committee of the Whole

The Carlton County Committee of the Whole is meeting to review 2024 budget presentations from multiple departments, including Property Management, Coordinator/HR, Zoning, Public Health, Veteran Services, Auditor/Treasurer, and County Attorney. The agenda also includes approval of the June 6, 2023 meeting minutes and discussion of a Human Resources reorganization. The meeting is scheduled for August 1, 2023 at 2:30 p.m. at the Transportation Building.

• Property Management requests $500K for maintenance and repairs, including courthouse asbestos mitigation ($25K), LED lighting upgrades ($85K), and tuckpointing ($10K)
• Proposal to add one Maintenance Tech and one Custodial position for the new Justice Center opening in late summer 2024
• Human Resources plans to enter collective bargaining negotiations for eight expiring agreements in 2024
• County Coordinator's office highlights capital improvement plan, including sale or disposal of unneeded buildings like former youth shelter and Annex/Extension
• 2024 budget presentations scheduled from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. for various departments

The Committee approved a reorganization of the HR and property management departments. This action includes adding a new HR specialist, changing the HR Generalist and HR Director positions, and leaving the Custodial Supervisor position vacant.

• Approved HR and property management reorganization (including new HR specialist, changes to HR Generalist and HR Director positions, and not refilling Custodial Supervisor position)
• Approved agenda

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold budget presentations starting at 1:00 p.m. followed by a regular meeting. The agenda includes discussions on personnel positions, transportation agreements, and various grant acceptances.

• Accept Emergency Management Performance ARPA Grant for $3,806
• Accept Emergency Management Performance ARPA Grant for $92,010
• Consider Transportation agreement Children in Foster Care-Cromwell Schools
• Award contracts 009-113-002, 009-114-007, 009-13-014, and 009-606-038
• Consider Abatement-Youngberg

The Board approved three major infrastructure contracts and several personnel refills across county departments. It also authorized three grants for the Sheriff's Department and established fees for civil marriage officiant registration.

• Awarded $2,642,200.00 contract to Northland Constructors of Duluth, Inc. for CSAH 6 (all yea)
• Awarded $1,340,416.45 contract to Veit & Company, Inc. for CR 113 and CR 114 (all yea)
• Awarded $633,614.18 contract to KGM Contractors, Inc. for CSAH 13 (all yea)
• Approved $100,926.76 NHTSA DWI Grant and hiring of an additional Deputy Sheriff (all yea)
• Approved $92,010 and $3,806 EMPG-ARPA Grants for the Sheriff's Department (all yea)
• Approved $32,100 purchase of a package scanner for the Justice Center (all yea)
• Set $25 application fee and $10 certified copy fee for civil marriage officiants (all yea)
• Approved refilling positions for LADC Social Worker, LTC Nurse/Social Worker, Family School Support Social Worker, Corrections Officer, and Custodian (all yea)

Board of Adjustment

The Carlton County Board of Adjustment and Appeals will hold a public hearing on four variance applications (cases #323007–323010) from Tyler Larson, Brian Hammitt, Mary Lucht, and Michael Hiti. The board will also approve minutes from the June 20, 2023 meeting. No old or other business is listed.

• Public hearing on variance case #323007 (Tyler Larson)
• Public hearing on variance case #323008 (Brian Hammitt)
• Public hearing on variance case #323009 (Mary Lucht)
• Public hearing on variance case #323010 (Michael Hiti)
• Legal ad published in Star Gazette (July 6) and Pine Knot News (July 7)

The Board of Adjustment approved findings of fact and granted variances with conditions for four separate applicants. The board also approved the meeting minutes from May 16 and June 20, 2023.

• Approved May 16, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved June 20, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved variance with conditions for Tyler Larson (#323007)
• Approved variance with conditions for Brian Hammitt (#323008)
• Approved variance with conditions for Mary Lucht (#323009)
• Approved variance with conditions for Michael Hiti (#323010)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing several administrative items, including a contract extension for electronics recycling and a joint powers agreement for household hazardous waste. The meeting also includes discussions on new hauler licenses and various departmental updates.

• One-year contract extension with TRC for electronics recycling
• Renewal of WLSSD Joint Powers Agreement for Household Hazardous Waste Program (2023-2027)
• Approval of 2023-2024 New Hauler License
• Approval of Nordstrom’s New Truck Addition for hauling
• Approval of DAIP Agreement for Northland Foundation Grant Assistance

The Board updated the Project Labor Agreement to exclude projects under $250,000. Other actions included renewing waste and electronics disposal contracts and approving several staff refills.

• Amended Resolution 13-207 to exclude projects under $250,000 from Project Labor Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved hauler license for Nordstroms ($25 fee) (unanimous)
• Approved one-year renewal of electronics materials agreement with TRC, The Retrofit Companies (unanimous)
• Renewed WLSSD Joint Powers Agreement for Household Hazardous Waste program through Dec 31, 2027 (unanimous)
• Renewed DNR Joint Powers Agreement for Wildlife Management Areas grading through June 30, 2028 (unanimous)
• Approved refilling Traffic Services Coordinator, Traffic Services Assistant, IT Help Desk, and Corrections Officer positions (unanimous)
• Approved service agreement with Domestic Abuse Intervention Programs not to exceed $112,400.00 (unanimous)
• Changed Help Desk position to IT Support Specialist and increased grade from 130 to 140 (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Carlton County Planning Commission meeting scheduled for July 5, 2023, has been canceled. No items were discussed or decided. The notice was issued by Sheila Butterfield of Zoning and Environmental Services.

• Meeting canceled

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review a construction loan for Holyoke Township and consider extending MnPEA employee comp time. The meeting also includes updates on the Tyler v Hennepin SCOTUS ruling and approval of a revised medical consultant agreement.

• Consideration of a $50,000 maximum construction loan for Holyoke Township's North Holyoke Road
• Approval of revised MOU for Dr. Kenneth Ripp to provide jail physician and medical consultation services
• Proposal to allow MnPEA employees to carry over comp time until December 31, 2023
• Approval of the 2024 Budget Policy and Budget Direction
• Update on Tyler v Hennepin SCOTUS ruling regarding MN Tax Forfeit Landsales

The Board approved several grants, a road construction loan, and a Joint Powers Agreement for workforce innovation. It also decided to move department heads to a 40-hour work week starting January 1, 2024. Public land sales are currently suspended following a Supreme Court ruling.

• Approved $50,000 interest-free road construction loan to Holyoke Township (all yea)
• Approved moving County Department Heads to a 40-hour work week starting Jan 1, 2024 (3-2)
• Approved Joint Powers Agreement with six other counties and NE MN Office of Job Training (all yea)
• Approved hiring a .8 FTE Homeless Liaison using state funding (all yea)
• Approved $12,299 United Way grant for Jump Start for Kindergarten (all yea)
• Approved $3,000 Northland Foundation Grant for early childhood initiatives (all yea)
• Approved amended MOU for medical services with Dr. Kenneth Ripp (all yea)
• Approved transition to CarltonCountyMN.gov domain for website and email (all yea)

Board of Adjustment

The Carlton County Board of Adjustment and Appeals will hold public hearings on three variance applications (cases #323004, #323005, #323006) from Raymond Graffaas, David Pierson, and Raymond Worgren. The board will also approve minutes from the May 16, 2023 meeting. No old or other business is listed.

• Public hearing on variance application #323004 (Raymond Graffaas)
• Public hearing on variance application #323005 (David Pierson)
• Public hearing on variance application #323006 (Raymond Worgren)
• Legal ad published in Star Gazette (June 8, 2023) and Pine Knot News (June 9, 2023)

The Board of Adjustment approved variance requests for properties owned by the Graftaas, Pierson, and Worgren families. The board also postponed the approval of the May 16, 2023, meeting minutes.

• Postponed approval of May 16, 2023, meeting minutes
• Approved variance with conditions for Melissa and Nathan Graftaas (#323004)
• Approved variance for Mary and David Pierson (#323005)
• Approved variance for Raymond and Steve Worgren (#323006)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board adopted the Northeast Minnesota Regional Solid Waste Management Plan and approved a $265,967 contract for social services document management software. Other actions included approving hauler licenses, airport maintenance grants, and staffing changes across several departments.

• Adopted Northeast Minnesota Regional Solid Waste Management Plan (Resolution 23-049)
• Approved $265,967 contract with Next Chapter Technology for social services software
• Approved foster care transportation agreement with Cloquet school district up to $10,000
• Discontinued plowing of private driveways by County Transportation Department (Resolution 23-052)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Knife Island Campground to add bunkhouses and walk-in sites
• Accepted Airport Maintenance and Operation Grant Contracts for Cloquet and Moose Lake airports
• Approved Carlton County Transfer Station Gate Fees effective September 1, 2023
• Issued hauler licenses for municipal solid waste, demolition waste, and recycling

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Review for Unorganized Townships and the County Board of Appeal and Equalization will hold meetings on June 13 and June 26. The agenda includes electing a Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and Secretary, as well as reviewing the functions of the appraisal process.

• Election of County Board Chairperson
• Election of County Board Vice-Chairperson
• Election of County Auditor/Treasurer as Secretary
• Review of appraisal process by the County Assessor and staff
• Acceptance of assessment books

The Board of Review and Board of Appeal and Equalization accepted the 2023 Assessment Books for real estate, mobile homes, and personal property. The board approved staff recommendations for several valuation changes and ruled on specific property appeals.

• Elected Commissioner Brenner as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Commissioner Zmyslony as Vice-Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Auditor/Treasurer DeVriendt as Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved staff recommendations and valuation/classification changes on file (unanimous)
• Approved $23,800 valuation reduction for PID 78-020-1920; no change for PIDs 78-020-1796 and 78-020-1930 (unanimous)
• Approved no change in valuation for PID 27-160-0160 (unanimous)
• Approved no change in valuation for PIDs 06-510-4860, 06-510-4870, and 06-510-4875 (unanimous)
• Accepted 2023 Assessment Books of Real Estate, Mobile Home, and Personal Property Values (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Carlton County Planning Commission is meeting to hold a public hearing on a conditional use application from Minardis Outdoors, LLC. The agenda includes standard procedural items such as approving minutes and the agenda, and the hearing is the main substantive item. No other decisions or discussions are listed.

• Public hearing on Conditional Use – 423001 Minardi Outdoors, LLC
• Legal ad published in Star Gazette on May 25, 2023
• Legal ad published in Pine Knot News on May 26, 2023

The Planning Commission approved a Conditional Use Permit for Minardi Outdoors, LLC to expand the Knife Island Campground. The approval allows for the addition of bunkhouses and new walk-in campsites.

• Approved Findings of Fact for Conditional Use Permit #423001 (Carried)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit #423001 for Minardi Outdoors, LLC to add six 12x24 foot bunkhouses and up to 14 walk-in sites (Carried)
• Approved May 3, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved meeting agenda

Committee of the Whole

The Carlton County Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss the 2024 budget policy statement and direction, along with several staffing and operational items. The agenda includes updates on the Restorative Justice program evaluation, the Justice Center, and the county's animal rescue. The board will also consider a request to restructure a Family School Support Worker position to serve the Moose Lake School District and discuss the expiring waste hauling contract.

• 2024 budget policy statement and budget direction
• Restructure of Family School Support Worker/Children's Mental Health unit to add .5 FTE for Moose Lake School District
• Acceptance of MN Dept. of Health Suicide Prevention Grant requiring staffing adjustments
• Transfer Station waste hauling contract expires end of 2024; SKB won't renegotiate, may need county fleet
• Transportation update includes multiple road and bridge projects with federal funding

The Committee approved several staffing restructures and fill requests across the Auditor/Treasurer and Public Health & Human Services offices. It also approved the transition to a new government email suffix and the cessation of private driveway plowing. The May 2, 2023 meeting minutes were deferred for approval at a later date.

• Approved MV/License Bureau replacement
• Approved increasing election clerk position from .6 to .8 FTE
• Approved move to CarltonCounty.gov email suffix
• Approved Family School Support Worker / Children’s Mental Health restructure
• Approved acceptance of MN Dept. of Health Suicide Prevention Grant and staffing adjustments
• Approved account tech fill request
• Approved long term care nurse/social worker fill request
• Approved request to end private driveway plowing

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review a request from Northern Vocational Opportunities to decrease its on-site capacity from 20 to 8 individuals. Additionally, the Board will consider a two-year agreement with Esko School District for transporting children in foster care.

• Northern Vocational Opportunities capacity reduction from 20 to 8 individuals
• Two-year transportation agreement with Esko School District for foster care students
• One-year extension consideration for Food Waste Collection
• One-year extension consideration for Cloquet Riverside Recycling
• Approval of 2023-2024 Facility and Hauler License Renewals

The Board approved several waste management and hauling licenses, renewed multiple liquor licenses, and accepted a grant for domestic violence system response. They also authorized a capacity reduction for the Northern Vocational Opportunities program and approved a foster care transportation agreement.

• Accepted $150,000 Northland Foundation grant for domestic violence system response (all yea)
• Authorized reduction of NVO on-site capacity from 20 to 8 clients (all yea)
• Approved foster care transportation agreement with Esko school district up to $10,000 (all yea)
• Approved refilling a Financial Eligibility Specialist position in Public Health and Human Services (all yea)
• Approved waste management extensions for Food Waste Collection and Recyclable Materials (all yea)
• Issued various Recycling Facility and hauler licenses (all yea)
• Approved 2023-2024 Liquor License Renewals for 18 establishments (all yea)
• Approved letters of support for CAFD equipment grant and MDH project for children of incarcerated parents (all yea)

Board of Adjustment

The Carlton County Board of Adjustment and Appeals will hold a public hearing on three variance requests, elect a chairperson and vice-chairperson, and approve minutes from a December 2022 meeting. The agenda is otherwise routine, with no old or other business listed.

• Variance #323001: Minnesota Candy Warehouse LLC (Sweetly Kismet Candy Store)
• Variance #323002: Dawn Sax
• Variance #323003: Minardi Outdoors (Knife Island Campground)
• Election of chairperson and vice-chairperson
• Approval of December 22, 2022 meeting minutes

The Board of Adjustment elected its leadership and approved three separate variance requests following a public hearing. All three variances were approved with conditions.

• Elected Jack Ezell as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Aaron Gustafson as Vice-Chairperson (unanimous)
• Approved December 20, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved variance with conditions for Minnesota’s Candy Warehouse LLC #323001 (3-0)
• Approved variance with conditions as amended for Dawn Sax #323002 (3-0)
• Approved variance with conditions as amended for Minardi Properties of MN LLC #323003 (3-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board is reviewing a proposal to replace one Team Leader position with three Specialist positions to improve staff support. The change aims to increase revenue by an estimated $7,000 annually through improved billing resources.

• Restructure of Public Health & Human Services from 1 Team Leader to 3 Specialists
• Proposed amendments to Carlton County Zoning Ordinance #27
• Approval of terms for June 5, 2023 Timber Auction
• Proclamation for National Children's Mental Health Awareness Day
• Consideration of Federal Boat and Water Safety Supplemental Patrol Grant

The Board of Commissioners extended the county's Comprehensive Local Water Management Plan and entered into a cooperative agreement to implement the St. Louis River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan.

• Approved extension of Carlton County Comprehensive Local Water Management Plan to December 31, 2026 (All yea)
• Adopted Resolution 23-046 to implement the St. Louis Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan (All yea, except Zmyslony absent)
• Approved meeting agenda as amended (All yea)
• Approved April 24, 2023, Adjourned Board meeting minutes (All yea)

Planning Commission

The Carlton County Planning Commission is meeting to consider amendments to the county's Zoning Ordinance #27. The agenda includes a public hearing on the amendments, followed by a vote on whether to approve them. No other new or other business is listed.

• Public hearing on amendments to Carlton County Zoning Ordinance #27
• Legal ad published in Star Gazette on April 20, 2023
• Legal ad published in Pine Knot News on April 21, 2023

The Planning Commission voted to approve amendments to Carlton County Zoning Ordinance #27 following a public hearing. The decision was made after hearing public comments regarding cemetery regulations, including concerns about green burial cemeteries and distinctions between 306 and 307 cemeteries. The vote was 5-2 in favor of approval.

• Approved amendments to Carlton County Zoning Ordinance #27 (5-2)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is holding public hearings regarding the vacation of specific road segments and their redesignation as county cartways. These actions follow previous road relocations and aim to maintain access for private property owners.

• Public hearing to vacate a portion of County Road 107 (Kampground Road) and designate it as a County Cartway
• Public hearing to vacate a portion of Old County Road 8 and designate part of it as a County Cartway/private driveway
• Presentation regarding Transportation Local Option Sales and Use Tax and Vehicle Excise Tax projects

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing regarding proposed projects funded by the 0.5% Local Option Sales and Use Tax (LOST) and the $20 Vehicle Excise Tax. The meeting included a presentation of specific road, bridge, and facility improvements to be identified for these tax revenues.

• Public hearing for Transportation Local Option Sales and Use Tax (LOST) projects
• Presentation of proposed projects for the 0.5% sales tax and $20 vehicle excise tax
• Proposed County Road projects including CR 114 reconstruction ($3,500,000)
• Proposed State Aid Road projects including CSAH 1 reconstruction ($5,000,000)
• Proposed Bridge projects including Blackhoof Creek Bridge replacement ($10,000,000)

Committee of the Whole

The Carlton County Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss and act on a range of items, including two transportation public hearings, a correctional health data report for the county jail, a Justice Center update, and various department updates. The agenda also includes discussion of budget policy, data practices policy updates, and lobbying priorities. Several items are information-only, while others may involve formal action.

• Transportation Public Hearing at 4:30
• Transportation Public Hearing at 4:45
• Carlton County Jail – Correctional Health data report
• Justice Center update
• Approve Data Practices Policy updates

The Committee approved updates to the Data Practices Policy and the Disabilities Services Long Term Care Restructure Plan. It also approved CaseWorks – EDMS. Several other items, including the Justice Center and EDA, were presented for information only.

• Approved Data Practices Policy Updates
• Approved CaseWorks – EDMS
• Approved Disabilities Services – Long Term Care Restructure Plan
• Approved April 4, 2023 meeting minutes

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing a proposal to transition Frontier Communications to a 25-year lease under the Soo Line Trail. The meeting also includes discussions regarding opioid settlement fund contracts and committee appointments.

• Proposed 25-year lease with Frontier Communications for fiber optic under Soo Line Trail at $9,500 for the term
• Approval to contract with Essentia Institute of Rural Health using Opioid Settlement Funds
• Review of Willa Hanson's application for the Human Services Advisory Committee
• Approval of annual Boat and Water Safety grant
• Consideration of change order approval for the Justice Center

The Board approved a $32,613 change order for the Justice Center fire pump room and tank. Other actions included authorizing a $5,789 boat and water safety grant and designating Lakes and Pines Community Action Council, Inc. to administer family homelessness prevention funds.

• Approved $32,613 change order for Justice Center fire pump room and tank (all yea)
• Approved 2023 County Boat and Water Safety Grant for $5,789 (all yea)
• Authorized Lakes and Pines Community Action Council, Inc. to administer Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program funds (all yea)
• Approved ten-year lease with Frontier Communications for fiber optic line under Soo Line Trail (all yea)
• Authorized contract with Essentia Institute of Rural Health for opioid settlement workplan evaluation (all yea)
• Approved tax abatements for parcels PIN 06-095-0240 and PIN 78-020-2284 due to clerical errors (all yea)
• Accepted application by Gene Vaineo, Jr. to repurchase tax forfeited land (all yea)
• Appointed Willa Hanson to Human Services Advisory Committee and Rachael Isham to Extension Committee (all yea)

Board of Adjustment

The April 18, 2023, Board of Adjustment meeting is cancelled. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting. Contact the Zoning office at 218-384-9176 with questions.

• Meeting cancelled

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board of Commissioners met to consider a resolution regarding flooding caused by above-average spring snowmelt. The Board adopted the resolution to officially declare a state of emergency for the county due to significant public property damage.

• Resolution for Flooding Emergency Event

The Board of Commissioners met in an emergency session to address public property damage caused by spring snow melt. The board adopted resolution 23-030 to officially declare a state of emergency for the county.

• Approved the agenda (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 23-030 declaring a state of emergency for April 2023 spring flooding (unanimous)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review requests to refill the Fiscal Officer and Financial Eligibility Specialist positions following a resignation and retirement. The agenda also includes public hearing settings for county ordinance changes, rezoning requests, and road designations.

• Request to refill Fiscal Officer position due to resignation
• Request to refill Financial Eligibility Specialist position due to retirement
• Public hearing for proposed changes to Carlton County Ordinance #27
• Rezoning request #523001-Kristopher Johnson
• Public hearing for designation of Cartway CSAH 8 and County Road 107

The Board approved a contract for courthouse roof repairs and several staff reclassifications and hires. They also authorized tax abatements, rezoned a property in Sawyer Township, and scheduled three public hearings for May. Budget requests for the Soil and Water Conservation District were approved.

• Approved $261,250 courthouse roof repair contract with Equity Builders and Construction Services, Inc
• Approved rezoning of 3194 Highway 210 from A-2 Agriculture/Rural Residential to C-2 Highway Commercial
• Approved $250,000 state funds for SWCD Nemadji Watershed second biennium budget
• Approved $22,000 annual budget for three years for SWCD seeder rental program position
• Approved tax abatements for parcels PIN 06-065-0200 and PIN 45-058-3745
• Approved application by Nathan Leonard to repurchase tax forfeited land
• Approved refilling Fiscal Officer and Financial Eligibility Specialist positions in Public Health and Human Services
• Scheduled public hearings for May 2 and May 3 regarding road vacations and zoning changes

Planning Commission

The Carlton County Planning Commission is meeting to hold a public hearing on Rezoning #523001 for Kristopher Johnson, and to discuss draft revisions to Carlton County Zoning Ordinance #27. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes and the agenda itself. The legal ad for the hearing was published in the Star Gazette and Pine Knot News in late March.

• Public hearing on Rezoning #523001 for Kristopher Johnson
• Draft revisions to Carlton County Zoning Ordinance #27
• Legal ad published in Star Gazette on March 23, 2023, and Pine Knot News on March 24, 2023

The Planning Commission approved a rezoning request for Kristopher Johnson. The board also scheduled a public hearing for draft revisions to the county zoning ordinance.

• Approved Rezoning #523001 for Kristopher Johnson (7-0)
• Approved motion to set public hearing for draft revisions to Carlton County Zoning Ordinance #27 for May 3, 2023 (7-0)
• Approved March 1, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Carlton County Committee of the Whole will hear annual reports from the Community and Family Initiatives Department and the Soil and Water Conservation District, consider a resolution authorizing Lakes and Pines to administer state homeless prevention funds, and discuss a possible land purchase behind the Justice Center. The board will also consider setting public hearings on extending the local option sales tax and motor vehicle excise tax, and on designating a cart way on CR 107 and old CSAH 8. Several department updates and new business items are on the agenda.

• Resolution authorizing Lakes and Pines CAC to administer MN Housing Finance Agency's Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program (Oct 1, 2023 – Sep 30, 2025)
• Request to consider purchase of additional lands along ROW behind Justice Center
• Set public hearing to extend Local Option Sales Tax and motor vehicle excise tax
• Set public hearing date for designation of a cart way on CR 107 and old CSAH 8
• Courthouse roof contract

The Committee of the Whole approved a contract for the courthouse roof and an annual budget increase of $22,000 for the SWCD for the next three years. Members also authorized a resolution for the MN Housing Finance Agency’s Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program. Public hearings were scheduled for May regarding local sales and excise taxes, as well as cart way designations.

• Approved resolution for MN Housing Finance Agency’s Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program
• Approved SWCD mid-year budget adjustment of $22K per year for three years
• Approved clerical reorganization for Assessors
• Approved courthouse roof contract
• Approved promotion of Mechanic I to Mechanic II position
• Approved public hearing in May to extend Local Option Sales Tax and motor vehicle excise tax
• Approved public hearing date for cart way designation on CR 107 and old CSAH 8

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing several items including a grant amendment for children's mental health respite care and out-of-state travel for a drug court professional. The meeting also includes discussions on proposed conduit bonding for Essentia projects.

• Amendment to Children’s Mental Health Respite Grant to extend expiration to 12/31/2023 and increase total obligation to $54,431.00
• Proposed out-of-state travel for a treatment court case manager to attend the National Association of Drug Court Professionals Conference in Austin, Texas
• Proposed Conduit Bonding for Essentia Projects
• Application for a $30,000 FCF Rural Community Child Care Grant

The Board approved a resolution to hold a public hearing on April 24, 2023, regarding the issuance of revenue bonds up to $51 million for Essentia Health projects in Esko and Staples. The Board also approved several health and safety grants, contracts, and a request for state capital investment for a new female offender facility.

• Approved resolution (23-028) to hold public hearing April 24 for $51M Essentia Health revenue bonds
• Approved $100,000 contract with Recovery Alliance Duluth for opioid remediation
• Approved $54,431 grant from MN Dept of Human Services for Children’s Mental Health Respite Services
• Approved $120,000 Operation Stonegarden Grant (23-027)
• Approved 2023 Aquatic Invasive Species Budget and Plan of $96,550
• Approved resolution (23-029) requesting hearings for SF 2988 and HF 3103 for female offender facility funding
• Approved funding for City of Carlton Ambulance service from Sawyer Township up to $10,909.23 for 2024
• Approved transportation contracts with Specialty Minerals, Inc. and PotlatchDeltic for wood-ash

Board of Adjustment

The March 21, 2023, Board of Adjustment meeting is cancelled. The agenda contains no items for discussion or decision, only a notice of cancellation.

• Meeting cancelled for March 21, 2023

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is considering several personnel refills within Public Health & Human Services to address vacancies in child protection. Additionally, the board will review a County Tribal Agreement intended to enhance cooperative working relationships for Indian children and families.

• Refill of Child Protection On-going Case Manager position
• Refill of Child Protection Social Worker position
• County Tribal Agreement between Fond du Lac Human Services, Arrowhead Regional Corrections, and Carlton County PHHS
• Minor Subdivision #823003 consideration for Darrell and Troy Swanson
• 2023 Recycling Center Grant Payments approval

The Board authorized the sale of county land to the State of Minnesota for $92,000 and approved $25,000 in recycling shed grants. It also opted into multistate opioid settlement agreements and filled three social worker positions. Several inter-agency agreements and a minor subdivision in Barnum Township were approved.

• Approved refilling three Social Worker positions in Public Health and Human Services
• Approved $163,250 annual agreement for Lutheran Social Services Child Emergency Shelter Services
• Approved Minor Subdivision No. 823003 in Barnum Township
• Approved $25,000 total for 2023 County Recycling Shed Grant Payments ($5,000 each to Barnum, Carlton, Moose Lake, Perch Lake Township, and Thomson Township)
• Authorized sale of county land to State of Minnesota for $92,000 (Res 23-023)
• Approved $2,700 Federal Boating Safety Supplemental Equipment Grant (Res 23-024)
• Opted into multistate opioid settlement agreements and the State-Subdivision Agreement (Res 23-026)
• Approved MOU with Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc. regarding accelerated vacation accrual for new hires

Planning Commission

The Carlton County Planning Commission is meeting to handle routine procedural items and new business. They will consider a minor subdivision application and discuss draft revisions to the county zoning ordinance. The agenda is largely procedural, with only two substantive items.

• Minor Subdivision #823003 by Darrell Swanson and Troy Swanson
• Draft revisions to Carlton County Zoning Ordinance #27

The Planning Commission approved a minor subdivision for Darrell and Troy Swanson with conditions. The commission also approved all draft revisions to Zoning Ordinance #27, though the public hearing is delayed pending state legislative sessions.

• Approved Minor Subdivision #823003 for Darrell Swanson and Troy Swanson with conditions (6-0)
• Approved all draft revisions to Carlton County Zoning Ordinance #27
• Approved January 4, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (6-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board will consider applying for a $600,000 Community-Based Suicide Prevention Grant from MDH to continue regional coordination across 30 northern Minnesota counties. The board will also approve final payments for two road projects, renew cabin leases without fee changes, and discuss the 2024 budget planning schedule.

• Consider intent to apply for $600,000 Community-Based Suicide Prevention Grant
• Approve final payment of $63,245.64 to Ulland Brothers for Moose Lake Multi-Use Trail Phase I
• Approve final payment of $34,958.28 to Ulland Brothers for CSAH 3 Pavement Rehabilitation
• Approve annual renewal of cabin/ag/industrial leases with no fee changes
• Discuss and approve 2024 Budget Planning Schedule

The Board approved several road project final payments and land lease renewals. It also authorized funding for Justice Center storage and a construction change order. Additional approvals included a medical consultation MOU and a broadband grant letter of support.

• Approved $758,640.91 change order for Justice Center construction costs (unanimous)
• Awarded Justice Center high-density storage bid to Mid-America Business Systems for $157,113.41 and $2,933.48 (unanimous)
• Approved final payment of $63,245.64 to Ulland Brothers, Inc. for TH 73 & CSAH 10 project (unanimous)
• Approved final payment of $34,958.25 to Ulland Brothers, Inc. for CSAH 3 project (unanimous)
• Renewed all Carlton County Land Department leases without rate increases (unanimous)
• Approved MOU for medical services with Dr. Kenneth Ripp at $1,000/year and hourly rates (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for SCI Broadband's DEED application with a match up to $50,000 (unanimous)
• Accepted $1,350 donation from Carlton Area Lions Club for Sheriff's Office protective vests (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The February 21, 2023, Board of Adjustment meeting is cancelled, according to a notice from the county office. No items were scheduled for discussion or decision. The notice provides contact information for questions.

• Meeting cancelled

County Board of Commissioners

The board will consider refilling an Eligibility Specialist position in the Income Maintenance Unit due to retirement, as caseloads have risen from 258 to 307 per worker. It will also vote on renewing a $339,398 purchase-of-service agreement with the Human Development Center for Assertive Community Treatment. Other items include approving a 2024 budget planning schedule, a liquor license change, and a letter of support for Fond du Lac.

• Refill Eligibility Specialist position (Grade 150, Step 1 at $27.36/hr) due to retirement
• Approve $339,398 purchase-of-service agreement with Human Development Center for ACT program
• Approve 2024 Budget Planning Schedule
• Approve liquor license due to type change
• Consider letter of support for Fond du Lac

The Board approved a major road project contract and several transportation agreements. Other actions included approving health and human services contracts, staffing refills for the Sheriff's and Public Health departments, and a veterans' service grant.

• Awarded $3,586,049.83 road project contract to Hawkinson Construction Company, Inc (unanimous)
• Approved Transportation Maintenance Agreements with eight townships (unanimous)
• Approved $339,398 contract with Human Development Center for Assertive Community Treatment (unanimous)
• Approved $107,000 contract with Paramount Planning Group, LLC for project management (unanimous)
• Approved $39,000 contract with Adrienne Pearson for CHIPS, TPR, LTFC, and TL&PC matters (unanimous)
• Approved gravel pit lease with Dan and Gayle Heikkila at $3.00 per cubic yard (unanimous)
• Approved refilling one Financial Eligibility Specialist and one Corrections Officer position (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution to enter Grant Contract with Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Carlton County Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss and receive updates on several items, including proposed spongy moth treatments, a proposed DNR addition to the Red Clover Wildlife Management Area, and a Justice Center update. The agenda also includes discussions on the building maintenance budget, the value of the Management Team Annual Report, the facility closing policy for severe weather, department head lobbying priorities, and the Local Homeless Prevention Aid allocation. The meeting is a discussion session, with no formal votes scheduled.

• Proposed spongy moth treatments in Carlton County for Spring-Summer 2023 (presentation by MN Dept. of Agriculture)
• Proposed DNR addition to Red Clover WMA (Silva Parcel)
• Justice Center update (Paul Coughlin)
• Discussion of Facility Closing Policy for severe weather events
• Local Homeless Prevention Aid: $88,516 allocated for 2023

The meeting consisted of informational updates and discussions on various county departments. No substantive votes or formal decisions were recorded in the minutes.

County Board of Commissioners

The board will vote on renewing a two-year purchase-of-service agreement with the Fond du Lac Reservation for foster care licensing and support services. Other items include a minor subdivision request, new hauler license, and updates on opioid settlement funds.

• Purchase of Service Agreement for Fond du Lac Foster Care (2023-2024, rate changes: admin fee $30/day, respite/medical $45/day, emergency care $35/day)
• Consider Minor Subdivision #822030-Lindsay Lally
• 2022-2023 New Hauler License
• Update on Opioid Settlement Funds
• Accept HAVA Phase 2 Grant

The Board approved the allocation of opioid settlement funds for treatment, prevention, and administration. It also authorized a $3 million advance for County State Aid Highway projects and accepted several state transportation grants for bridge construction.

• Allocated opioid settlement funds: $100k for criminal justice treatment, $51k for prevention, $30k for leadership/research, and $20k for administration
• Approved $3,000,000 advance for County State Aid Highway projects
• Approved $266,577.22 grant for Bridge No. 09J44 and $123,877.76 grant for Bridge No. 09J41
• Approved purchase of service contracts with Fond du Lac Reservation and Human Development Center
• Classified seven tax-forfeited parcels in Red Clay Bluff Impact Zone as Conservation Lands
• Approved Minor Subdivision No. 8220 30 for Lindsay Lally on Island Lake
• Accepted $4,286.94 HAVA phase 2 grant for voting equipment and $30,000 Rural Child Care Innovation Program grant
• Endorsed Community Supervision Work Group efforts for a new state funding formula

Board of Adjustment

The January 17, 2023, Board of Adjustment meeting is cancelled. No items are scheduled for discussion or decision at this meeting.

• Meeting cancelled

Planning Commission

The Carlton County Planning Commission will hold its regular meeting, elect a chairperson and other officers, approve minutes from December 7, 2022, and consider a minor subdivision application. They will also discuss potential revisions to the county zoning ordinance. The agenda is mostly procedural, with one new business item and one discussion item.

• Election of chairperson, vice-chairperson, and secretary
• Minor Subdivision #822030 – Lindsay Lally
• Discussion of potential revisions to Carlton County Zoning Ordinance #27

The Planning Commission approved Minor Subdivision #822030 for Lindsay Lally with conditions. The board also elected its officers for the term and approved the previous meeting's minutes.

• Approved Minor Subdivision #822030 – Lindsay Lally with conditions (7-0)
• Elected Jack Ezell as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Byron Kuster as Vice-Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Keith Depre as Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved December 7, 2022 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board of Commissioners will hold its annual meeting, including swearing in officials and electing a chair and vice-chair. They will consider accepting a $107,000 State Homeland Security Program grant, a conflict of interest resolution, and bids for legal publications. The meeting also includes setting 2023 meeting dates and making committee appointments.

• Accept $107,000 State Homeland Security Program grant for 2023
• Consider conflict of interest resolution for county officials and employees
• Consider bids for legal publications for 2023
• Set dates and times for County Board and Committee of the Whole meetings in 2023
• Appoint commissioners and non-commissioners to commissions/committees for 2023

The Board held its annual session to elect a Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson and establish the 2023 meeting schedule. The Board approved a conflict-of-interest resolution, a legal publications contract, and various committee appointments. Additionally, the Board accepted a federal security grant and approved software funding for zoning.

• Elected Dick Brenner as Chairperson for 2023 (unanimous)
• Elected Susan Zmyslony as Vice-Chairperson for 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of $107,000 State Homeland Security Program grant (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 23-001 prohibiting financial conflicts of interest for officials and employees (unanimous)
• Awarded 2023 legal publications bid to Moose Lake Star Gazette and Pine Knot News at $14.20 per S.A.U. (unanimous)
• Adopted 2023 Board meeting schedule and Committee of the Whole schedule (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Commissioner and non-commissioner appointments to various boards and committees (unanimous)
• Approved up to $5,000 in compliance funds for ProWest permitting software upgrades for vacation rentals (unanimous)