Carlton County public meetings in 2025

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board of Commissioners will vote on the consent agenda, approve the regular agenda, and consider several items including 2026 cigarette/tobacco license renewals, the apportionment of surplus tax‑forfeited revenues, and a $245,998 service agreement with Brightwater Health for Assertive Community Treatment. The board will also set 2026 salaries and per‑diem rates for several county officials and approve final transportation payments.

• Approve 2026 Cigarette/Tobacco Retail License Renewals
• Apportionment of surplus Tax Forfeited Revenues per Minnesota Statutes 282.08
• Brightwater Health ACT Agreement – purchase of services for $245,998
• Final Payment 009-661-030 and Final Payment 009-655-004 under Transportation
• Set 2026 salaries and per‑diem rates for County Sheriff, Agricultural Inspector, and other officials

The Commissioners unanimously approved a transfer of up to $90,000 from the Tax‑Forfeited Fund to the County Revenue Fund and directed the remaining receipts to be allocated 30% for timber development, 20% for parks and recreation, and the balance split 40% county general fund, 20% city/town and 40% school district. Additional approvals included a Brightwater Health contract for up to $328,593, final payment to Ulland Brothers for the TH‑210 project, and several personnel and technology actions.

• Approved transfer of up to $90,000 from Tax‑Forfeited Fund to County Revenue Fund (unanimous)
• Approved $328,593 Brightwater Health ACT contract (unanimous)
• Authorized $10,777.74 final payment to Ulland Brothers for TH‑210 improvements (unanimous)
• Renewed law enforcement contract with City of Carlton through 2028 (unanimous)
• Appointed Benjamin Anderson as County Surveyor for 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved $38,400 contract with Matthew Miller for child‑protection services (unanimous)
• Approved $8,512.20 Civic Plus public‑records software agreement (unanimous)
• Set 2026 County Commissioner salary at $28,273 and established per‑diem rates (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Carlton County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for December 16, 2025 has been canceled. No agenda items will be considered at this time. For questions, contact the Zoning and Environmental Services office.

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board of Commissioners will vote on a service contract with Sara Bilyeu to provide guardianship and conservatorship services for indigent wards. The agreement runs from January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2027 and may cost up to $100,000 over two years. Other agenda items include a transportation LRIP sponsorship, an award contract (SAP 009-090-007/SP 0913-22), and two safety grant proposals for off‑highway vehicles and snowmobiles.

• Purchase of Service Contract with Sara Bilyeu – up to $100,000 for 2026‑2027
• Thomson LRIP application sponsorship (Transportation)
• Award Contract SAP 009-090-007/SP 0913-22
• Off‑Highway Vehicle Safety Grant
• Snowmobile Safety Grant

The commissioners approved the consent agenda, a guardianship contract for $200 per client, and awarded a $1,391,632.30 paving contract for TH 73 in Cromwell. They also adopted resolutions supporting the Township of Thomson and the City of Moose Lake in their Local Road Improvement Program applications. Additional actions included authorizing two DNR safety grants, renewing a criminal apprehension agreement, and approving a fire‑inspection service agreement.

• Approved consent agenda (all yea votes)
• Approved guardianship contract $200 per client (01/01/26‑12/31/27) (all yea votes)
• Approved award of $1,391,632.30 contract to Kiminski Paving Inc. for TH 73 project (all yea votes)
• Resolved to sponsor Thomson Township LRIP road improvement project (all yea votes)
• Resolved to sponsor Moose Lake City LRIP 1st Street Improvements project (all yea votes)
• Authorized $14,265.66 MN DNR OHV/ATV safety enforcement grant (all yea votes)
• Authorized $10,880.18 MN DNR Snowmobile safety enforcement grant (all yea votes)
• Approved Summit Companies fire‑alarm, sprinkler, and extinguisher inspection agreement $18,989 per year (all yea votes)

County Board of Commissioners

The County Board of Commissioners will host a Truth in Taxation public meeting to gather input on the proposed 2026 Budget and Levy. The board will review budget factors and levy comparisons by department. Final adoption of the budget and levy is scheduled for December 22, 2025.

• Review of the proposed 2026 Budget
• Review of the 2026 Levy Comparison by Department
• Discussion of property tax refunds, senior citizen deferrals, and renter's rebates
• Public comment period regarding the upcoming Tax Payable Year

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting to receive a presentation on the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) by Houseal Lavigne. The presentation will review the planning timeline, expectations, and discuss community issues and opportunities. No formal decisions are scheduled; the meeting serves as an initial briefing for the advisory committee.

• Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) information and presentation by Houseal Lavigne

The board approved the meeting agenda by a unanimous yea vote. The meeting was then adjourned, also by unanimous yea vote. No substantive policy decisions were made during this special session.

• Approved meeting agenda (all yea votes)
• Adjourned meeting (all yea votes)

Planning Commission

The Carlton County Planning Commission announced that the December 3, 2025 meeting will not be held. No agenda items, decisions, or public hearings will take place. Residents with questions should contact the Planning Commission office.

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will consider two IT funding requests: one to spend $6,060 from the compliance fund for two GIS department computers, and another to fund a multi‑year cyber security package with 25% from the compliance fund and 75% from the Recorders Tech fund. The meeting also includes updates on economic development, transportation, and the Comprehensive Plan.

• IT Committee funding request – GIS computers, $6,060 from compliance fund
• IT Committee funding request – cyber security package, 25% compliance fund, 75% Recorders Tech fund
• Economic Development update
• Transportation update
• Comprehensive Plan update

The Committee of the Whole approved the meeting agenda and the November 4, 2025 minutes. It approved two IT Committee funding requests—for GIS department computers and a county cyber security package. The board also approved a three‑year renewal of the Microsoft 365 enterprise license and a request to add three full‑time equivalent staff positions. All motions were approved without recorded vote tallies.

• Approved agenda (motion by Zmyslony, second by Reed)
• Approved November 4, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Bodie, second by Zmyslony)
• Approved IT funding for GIS department computers (motion by Holmes, second by Bodie)
• Approved IT funding for county cyber security package (motion by Kyle, second by Zmyslony)
• Approved 3‑year Microsoft 365 license renewal (motion by Jesse, seconded by Buhs)
• Approved addition of 3 FTE staff positions (motion by Donna, second by Reed)

County Board of Commissioners

The board will consider awarding a contract to the University of Minnesota for a two‑year program evaluation under the RPI OJP grant, valued at $33,800. It will also discuss carrying over unspent trial fees to the 2026 budget, a variance request from the Solid Waste Ordinance, and two LRIP projects (Holyoke and Scanlon). Additional items include a Stonegarden grant and an AEOA lease.

• Contract with University of Minnesota for evaluation services – $33,800
• Trial Fees (6283) carry‑over request to 2026 budget
• Variance request from Solid Waste Ordinance (Rural Investment Properties LLC)
• Holyoke LRIP project
• Stonegarden grant

The Carlton County Board approved sponsorship of the North Holyoke Drive reconstruction project and the Tall Pine Lane project, both seeking LRIP funds. It also approved a lease renewal with Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency, accepted a $128,700 state grant, and accepted a $1,000 donation for the Sheriff’s wellness program. The board denied a Solid Waste Ordinance variance request and the related letter of support.

• Approved LRIP sponsorship for North Holyoke Drive reconstruction (all yea votes)
• Approved LRIP sponsorship for Tall Pine Lane project in Scanlon (all yea votes)
• Approved renewal of lease with Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency (all yea votes)
• Authorized acceptance of $128,700 Operation Stonegarden Grant (all yea votes)
• Accepted $1,000 donation from Moose Lodge 1274 for Sheriff’s Office wellness (all yea votes)
• Approved MOU with AFSCME Council 65 and IUOE 49 for 50% PFML premium contribution (all yea votes)
• Denied Solid Waste Ordinance variance request (all yea votes except Reed abstained)
• Denied letter of support for Solid Waste Ordinance request (all yea votes except Reed abstained)

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on a variance request submitted by Rural Investment Properties LLC concerning the use of tire‑derived aggregate as lightweight fill under County Ordinance 17. County staff will present details of the application, and members of the public may provide comments. The board will consider both oral and written comments before deciding on the variance.

• Variance request by Lucas Niemi/Rural Investment Properties LLC for tire‑shred fill at 3540 County Road 132, Kettle River, MN 55757
• Presentation by County staff on the variance application
• Public comment period for residents
• Acknowledgment of written comments submitted
• $46 recording fee may be assessed with the application

Board of Adjustment

The Carlton County Board of Adjustment will conduct public hearings on four variance requests: VAR‑2025‑23 (Freyberg Lifetime Trust), VAR‑2025‑24 (Doug Weiser), VAR‑2025‑25 (Brett Paige), and VAR‑2025‑26 (Joshua Wekseth). The board will also approve the meeting minutes from October 21, 2025, and address routine administrative items. No other business is listed.

• Approve meeting minutes from October 21, 2025
• Legal advertisement published October 30, 2025 and in the Star Gazette (Nov 6, 2025) and Pine Knot News (Nov 7, 2025)
• Public hearing on VAR‑2025‑23 – Freyberg Lifetime Trust
• Public hearing on VAR‑2025‑24 – Doug Weiser
• Public hearing on VAR‑2025‑25 – Brett Paige

The Carlton County Board of Adjustment held a public hearing on four variance applications (VAR-2025-23, VAR-2025-24, VAR-2025-25, VAR-2025-26). Motions to approve findings of fact and to approve the variances with conditions were recorded, but the minutes do not provide clear vote totals or final approval/denial results. No other substantive business was decided.

• VAR-2025-23 – motion to approve findings of fact (outcome not specified)
• VAR-2025-23 – motion to approve variance with conditions (outcome not specified)
• VAR-2025-24 – motion to approve variance (outcome not specified)
• VAR-2025-25 – motion to approve findings of fact (outcome not specified)
• VAR-2025-25 – motion to approve variance with conditions (outcome not specified)
• VAR-2025-26 – motion to approve findings of fact (outcome not specified)
• VAR-2025-26 – motion to approve variance with conditions (outcome not specified)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the acceptance of a $25,093 state grant for juvenile delinquency screening to be disbursed to the Arrowhead Juvenile Center. The meeting also includes reviews of rezoning requests and public safety contracts.

• Acceptance of 2026-2027 Juvenile Delinquency Screening Grant ($25,093)
• Rezoning request #525003 — Floyd Temple
• Conditional/Interim Use #425007 — OBAA Partners Inc
• Contract with Brain HQ — JIF Program
• Easement considerations for parcel 96-010-5640 (Carlson) and parcel 69-020-2010 (MN Power)

The commissioners adopted resolution 25-068 authorizing a sub‑grant with the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management for hazard mitigation and authorizing Chair Marv Bodie to sign. They also approved a rezoning of 3873 S Maple Drive, an interim use permit for a cannabis business, a timber auction for December 18, and a $25,093 grant from the Minnesota Department of Human Services. Additional actions included two easements on tax‑forfeited parcels, a Posit Science contract for jail programming, and scheduling a special board meeting on December 3 for the Comprehensive Land Use Plan.

• Adopted hazard mitigation sub‑grant resolution (all yea votes, absent Plante Buhs)
• Approved rezoning of 3873 S Maple Drive to A‑2 Agriculture/Rural Residential (all yea votes)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for OBAA Partners dba Panta Cannabis (all yea votes)
• Set County Timber Auction for Dec 18, 2025 and approved timber list (all yea votes)
• Accepted $25,093 grant from Minnesota Dept. of Human Services (all yea votes)
• Approved easement across tax‑forfeited parcel PID 96-010-5640 (all yea votes)
• Approved 30‑foot easement across tax‑forfeited parcel PID 69-020-2010 (all yea votes)
• Approved Posit Science contract for Justice Involved Female programming ($16,000 first class, $30,000 base) (all yea votes)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will conduct public hearings regarding a rezoning request and a conditional/interim use application. The body will also discuss Interim Ordinance #41.

• Rezoning Request #525003 – Floyd Temple
• Conditional/Interim Use #425007 – OBAA Partners Incorporated dba Panta Cannabis
• Discussion of Interim Ordinance #41

The commission approved the meeting minutes from Oct 1, 2025 and the agenda as amended. A rezoning request (#525003) by Floyd Temple and a conditional/interim use request (#425007) by OBAA Partners were considered, but the minutes do not record a clear approval or denial. The commission set a date for the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee meeting on Dec 3, 2025 and discussed Interim Ordinance #41 before adjourning at 8:50 PM.

• Approved Oct 1, 2025 meeting minutes (as amended)
• Approved agenda (as amended)
• Considered Rezoning Request #525003 – outcome not recorded
• Considered Conditional/Interim Use Request #425007 – outcome not recorded
• Scheduled Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee meeting for Dec 3, 2025
• Discussed Interim Ordinance #41
• Adjourned meeting at 8:50 PM

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review department updates and a presentation on the Food Access Project. The body is discussing county participation in the Minnesota Nuclear Energy Alliance and terms for a December 18, 2025, timber auction.

• Terms and conditions for the December 18, 2025 Timber Auction
• County participation in the Minnesota Nuclear Energy Alliance (MNEA)
• Food Access Project presentation regarding a $2,000 Medica County Innovation Fund grant
• Technology Audit
• Board of Adjustment vacancy

The Committee of the Whole approved the meeting agenda and the October 7 2025 minutes. Motion was passed to authorize the Timber Auction scheduled for Dec 18 2025 at 10:00 a.m. The board also approved an easement request over parcel #96‑010‑5640. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (motion by Buhs, seconded by Bodie)
• Approved October 7 2025 minutes (motion by Zmyslony, seconded by Bodie)
• Authorized Timber Auction on Dec 18 2025 at 10:00 a.m. (motion by Bodie, seconded by Zmyslony)
• Approved easement request over parcel #96‑010‑5640 (motion by Buhs, seconded by Zmyslony)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Bodie, seconded by Buhs)

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board will approve the consent agenda and regular agenda, then discuss several items including a proposed increase in airport hanger rental rates, a contract termination in zoning, and updates to county facilities and staffing. Administrative items include a historic courthouse roof update, renewal of the Minnesota healthcare consortium contract for 2026, and an increase in the election clerk position from 0.8 to 1.0 FTE.

• Increase airport hanger rental rates (Transportation)
• Terminate contract (Zoning and Environmental Services)
• Historic Courthouse roof update (Administrative)
• Minnesota healthcare consortium renewal contract for 2026 (Administrative)
• Election/Office support clerk .8 to 1.0 (Administrative)

The Carlton County Board approved several service contracts, accepted a state emergency‑management grant, and voted to sponsor the City of Cromwell’s LRIP application for the Clark Avenue reconstruction. It also authorized travel for county officials, terminated a mattress‑transport agreement, and approved a final payment for a completed road project.

• Approved HDC mental health case‑management contract (effective 01/01/202 ‑ 12/31/2026)
• Approved TLC of Duluth contract for disability/elderly services (~$800,607, 01/01/202 ‑ 12/31/2027)
• Approved Resolution 25‑065 to sponsor Clark Avenue Reconstruction LRIP application
• Approved Resolution 25‑066 to accept $19,811 Emergency Management Performance Grant
• Approved out‑of‑state travel for Emergency Management Director to IAEM conference (costs covered by AMEM)
• Terminated agreement with Carlson Timber Products for recyclable mattress transport
• Authorized $48,647.92 final payment to Northland Constructors for completed CSAH 55 project
• Approved 9.5% increase in employee health‑insurance rates for 2026 with a 17.5% cap for 2027

Board of Adjustment

The Carlton County Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on variance applications numbered 325018 through 325022 for David Matusek, Ron Westphal, Butlerfield Trust, Brian Besser, and Joshua Wekseth. The board will also approve the September 16, 2025 meeting minutes and address other routine business before adjourning.

• Approve meeting minutes from September 16, 2025
• Public hearing – #325018 – David Matusek
• Public hearing – #325019 – Ron Westphal
• Public hearing – #325020 – Butlerfield Trust
• Public hearing – #325021 – Brian Besser

The Board of Adjustment approved the September 16, 2025 meeting minutes. It then approved the findings of fact and approved variances with conditions for applications #325018 (David Matuseski), #325019 (Ron Westphal), #325020 (Butterfield Trust), and #325021 (Brian Besser). The meeting was adjourned at 8:08 p.m.

• Approved September 16, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved findings of fact for #325018 – David Matuseski
• Approved variance with conditions for #325018 – David Matuseski
• Approved findings of fact for #325019 – Ron Westphal
• Approved variance with conditions for #325019 – Ron Westphal
• Approved findings of fact for #325020 – Butterfield Trust
• Approved variance with conditions for #325020 – Butterfield Trust
• Approved findings of fact for #325021 – Brian Besser

County Board of Commissioners

The board will first vote on the consent agenda, which includes approving the minutes of the September 22, 2025 session, accepting FY2026 taconite tax funds, and other routine items. It will then address public health recognition and consider zoning matters, specifically an interim use permit and scheduling a public hearing for a variance request. Additional administrative business includes employee service awards, an assessor award, withdrawal from the Minnesota Merit System, a review of a self‑funded solar project, and a closed‑session union‑negotiation meeting.

• Approve minutes of the September 22, 2025, adjourned session (consent agenda)
• Accept FY2026 Taconite Tax Funds (consent agenda)
• Interim Use Permit #425006 (zoning and environmental services)
• Schedule public hearing for variance request (zoning and environmental services)
• Review previously approved self‑funded solar project (administrative)

The board approved a $254,323 grant contract for Taconite Tax Funds, authorized travel to a national conference, and appointed Rachael Tuve to the Extension Committee. It also approved tax abatements for fifteen parcels, an interim use permit for a gravel pit, set a public hearing on a solid‑waste variance, and entered an agreement with the City of Wright for a long‑term recycling facility. Additional actions included adopting a merit‑system compliance resolution, confirming the solar field project will proceed, and approving an MOU with AFSCME Council 65.

• Approved $254,323 Taconite Tax Funds grant contract (all yea votes)
• Approved out‑of‑state travel for commissioners to NAC conference (all yea votes)
• Approved second term appointment of Rachael Tuve to Extension Committee (all yea votes)
• Approved tax abatements for 15 parcels for Minnesota Energy Resources (all yea votes)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for gravel pit at 4177 Kolosky Road (all yea votes)
• Set public hearing on Nov 24, 2025 for tire‑shred solid waste variance (all yea votes, Reed nay)
• Approved agreement with City of Wright for unstaffed recycling facility through 2075 (all yea votes)
• Adopted resolution confirming compliance with federal merit‑system standards (all yea votes)

Committee of the Whole

The committee will review presentations on early childhood programs, AmeriCorps partnerships, and a suicide prevention grant. The body will also discuss the BrianHQ contract and a comprehensive plan update for zoning and environmental services.

• Discussion of BrianHQ contract for the Sheriff's JIF Manager
• Northern MN Suicide Prevention Grant Planning update
• Zoning & Environmental Services Comprehensive Plan update
• Carlton County Extension presentation
• Discussion of lobbying priorities

The Committee of the Whole approved the meeting agenda after a motion by Commissioner Bodie and a second by Commissioner Zmyslony. They also approved the September 2, 2025 meeting minutes following a motion by Commissioner Zmyslony and a second by Commissioner Buhs. The remainder of the session consisted of presentations and updates with no further actions taken.

• Approved agenda (motion by Commissioner Bodie, seconded by Commissioner Zmyslony)
• Approved September 2, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Commissioner Zmyslony, seconded by Commissioner Buhs)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing regarding a conditional or interim use application for Verna Jean Jeffers and Michael Buetow. The commission will also discuss Interim Ordinance #41.

• Public hearing: Conditional/Interim Use #425006 (Verna Jean Jeffers/Michael Buetow)
• Discussion: Interim Ordinance #41

The commission approved the September 3, 2025 meeting minutes and the meeting agenda. It held a public hearing on Conditional/Interim Use #425006 and approved the findings of fact and the interim use permit for the applicant. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved September 3, 2025 meeting minutes (vote tally not specified)
• Approved meeting agenda (vote tally not specified)
• Approved findings of fact for Conditional/Interim Use #425006 (vote tally not specified)
• Approved interim use permit for Conditional/Interim Use #425006 (vote tally not specified)
• Adjourned meeting (vote tally not specified)

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board of Commissioners met on September 22, 2025, to approve the 2026-2027 Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) Biennial Service Agreement. The agreement allocates $436,333 in federal and state funds for financial assistance and employment services for low-income families. The board also set the 2026 preliminary budget and levy, and approved unorganized township budgets and levy amounts.

• 2026-2027 MFIP Biennial Service Agreement approved with $436,333 allocation (federal $401,427, state $34,906)
• 2026 preliminary Carlton County budget and levy set
• 2026 unorganized township budgets and levy amounts approved
• Consent agenda included mattress transportation contract renewal, Sheriff's Office change fund, MZH Taxilane rehab grant, 9-unit hangar construction grant, and Sturgeon Lake Relief Association bingo application

The Carlton County Board approved the 2026 property tax levy totaling $35,645,775 and adopted the preliminary 2026 budget. It also accepted two state airport improvement grant agreements, authorized a $100 change fund for the Sheriff’s Office, and approved a bingo gambling application for the Sturgeon Lake Relief Association. Additionally, the board set a Dec. 11 public‑testimony meeting and appointed Shanna Wolf to the Economic Development Authority Committee.

• Approved amended Consent Agenda (minutes, MFIP agreement, mattress recycling renewal, $100 Sheriff’s Office change fund, bingo application) – carried by all yea votes
• Accepted State Grant Agreement No. 1060994 for Moose Lake Airport improvement – carried by all yea votes
• Accepted State Grant Agreement No. 1061092 for Cloquet Airport improvement – carried by all yea votes
• Approved the 2026 preliminary budget for taxes payable – carried by all yea votes
• Adopted the proposed 2026 property tax levy of $35,645,775 – carried by all yea votes
• Set a Dec. 11, 2025 meeting for public testimony on the final levy and budget – carried by all yea votes
• Appointed Shanna Wolf to the Economic Development Authority Committee for a six‑year term – carried by all yea votes
• Approved budgets and specific levies for unorganized townships for 2026 – carried by all yea votes

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment and Appeals will meet to conduct public hearings regarding variance requests. The board will also review findings of fact to grant variances.

• Public hearing #325013 – Joseph Wiener
• Public hearing #325016 – James and Janet Robinson
• Public hearing #325017 – Kris Anderson

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board will vote on the consent agenda, which includes routine items such as minutes, contracts, and the 2026‑2027 Child Care Fund Plan. It will also discuss several regular‑agenda items, including equipment purchases, use permits, and a change order for courthouse roof work. The meeting is scheduled for September 9, 2025 at the County Transportation Building.

• Approve consent agenda items (minutes, child care fund plan, airport agreements, final contractor payment, PFML filing)
• Transfer Station equipment purchase
• Interim Use Permit #425004 – Robert Miller
• Conditional Use Permit #425005 – Matt Arnold
• Change order for BP Builders courthouse roof replacement

The board adopted the airport grant award, authorized final payment for a completed road project, and approved large trailer purchases for the transfer station. It also granted an interim use permit for a cannabis business and a conditional use permit for a home‑based organ building business. The board accepted a repurchase application for tax‑forfeited land and switched health‑insurance brokerage to a new provider.

• Approved Consent Agenda (all yea votes, absent Plante Buhs)
• Adopted resolution 25-052 awarding Airport Maintenance and Operations Grant
• Authorized final payment of $28,024.30 to Northland Constructors for completed road project
• Approved purchase of trailers totaling $987,512 for County Transfer Station
• Approved Interim Use Permit for cannabis business at 3158 County Road 35
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for home‑based organ building business at 2110 County Road 105
• Accepted repurchase of tax‑forfeited lands (PIDs 98-230-0060 & 0080) from Charles and William Wise
• Approved contract with Marsh and McLennan Agency for health insurance brokerage at $3,000 per month, terminating prior contract

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will conduct public hearings regarding two conditional or interim use applications. The body will also discuss Interim Ordinance #41.

• Public hearing: Conditional/Interim Use #425004 – Robert Miller
• Public hearing: Conditional/Interim Use #425005 – Matthew Arnold
• Discussion of Interim Ordinance #41

The commission approved the August 6, 2025 meeting minutes and the agenda for the September 3, 2025 session. A public hearing was held for Conditional/Interim Use applications #425004 (Robert Miller) and #425005 (Matthew Arnold, no decisions were recorded). The meeting was adjourned at 8:04 PM.

• Approved August 6, 2025 meeting minutes (vote tally not recorded)
• Approved the September 3, 2025 agenda (vote tally not recorded)
• Held public hearing for Conditional/Interim Use #425004 – no decision recorded
• Held public hearing for Conditional/Interim Use #425005 – no decision recorded
• Approved adjournment at 8:04 PM (vote tally not recorded)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will receive budget presentations from the Transportation, Land Department, and Auditor/Treasurer’s Office. Members will also hear updates on economic development, community initiatives, and county transportation projects.

• Budget presentations for Transportation, Land Department, and Auditor/Treasurer’s Office
• 2024-2025 Truancy Program Annual Report discussed under Community & Family Initiatives
• Transportation update including ongoing road construction projects (e.g., CSAH 61, UT 103, CR 109)
• Potential jurisdictional transfer of CR 113, CR 114, and related roads to Fond du Lac Band
• Discussion of lobbying priorities and department updates

The Committee of the Whole approved the meeting agenda and the August 5, 2025 minutes. They voted to accept the Met Life contract for the Paid Family Medical Leave Act. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (motion by Reed, second by Bodie)
• Approved August 5, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Zmyslony, second by Bodie)
• Approved Met Life contract for Paid Family Medical Leave Act (motion by Gary, second by Bodie)
• Approved adjournment (motion by Zmyslony, second by Bodie)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review budget presentations and several consent agenda items. Key actions include approving a professional services contract for land use planning and accepting a medical device donation.

• Contract for Comprehensive Land Use Plan with Houseal Lavigne Associates, LLC, not to exceed $218,600
• Acceptance of a donated LUCAS medical device (valued at approximately $18,000) from the University of Minnesota
• Tax abatement for 2025 taxes for PID 13-002-0161 due to a manufactured home being removed in 2024
• Budget presentations from the Historical Society, Assessor, and Administrator

The commissioners unanimously approved the amended consent agenda, accepted an $18,000 LUCAS CPR device donation for the Sheriff’s Department, approved a tax abatement for parcel PID 13-002-0161, and authorized a contract up to $218,600 for the County Comprehensive Land Use Plan. They also approved the adjourned agenda, confirmed the County Attorney’s service on the Probation Committee, and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved amended Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted $18,000 LUCAS CPR device donation for Sheriff’s Department (unanimous)
• Approved tax abatement for parcel PID 13-002-0161 (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Houseal Lavigne Associates, LLC for CLUP up to $218,600 (unanimous)
• Approved Adjourned Agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved County Attorney to serve on County Probation Committee (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Carlton County Board of Adjustment will conduct three public hearings on August 19, 2025, to consider final decisions on variance applications. The meeting follows legal advertisement requirements published in local newspapers. No other substantive business is listed on the agenda.

• Public hearing for variance #325012 (Douglas White)
• Public hearing for variance #325014 (Leonard Simich)
• Withdrawn application for variance #325015 (Denise Wolff)

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board of Commissioners will consider a mutual aid agreement to formalize disaster and emergency response support with regional counties and tribal governments. The agreement does not require an immediate budget adjustment but could impact grant-funded staff time if mutual aid is activated.

• Mutual aid agreement with regional partners and tribes for emergency response
• Conditional/Interim Use #425001 — Phi Society LLC
• Conditional/Interim Use #425003 — Matthew and Kristie Laveau
• Contract with Klein McCarthy Architects for facility assessment/space study
• Electronics recycling contract extension

The commissioners unanimously approved a land‑exchange agreement to swap parcels for a stormwater pond. They also approved construction of a self‑funded solar field estimated at $2.75‑3.25 million. Additional actions included renewing the electronics‑recycling contract, approving several service contracts, and granting two use permits for a cannabis business and a butcher shop.

• Approved land‑exchange agreement for stormwater pond (unanimous)
• Approved self‑funded solar field project, cost $2.75‑3.25 M (unanimous)
• Approved one‑year renewal of electronics‑recycling agreement with TRC (unanimous)
• Approved CLUP contract with Houseal Lavigne Associates, LLC up to $218,600 (unanimous)
• Approved building‑maintenance software increase with AkitaBox Inc. up to $13,181.79 (unanimous)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for Phi Society LLC cannabis business in A‑1 zone (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Matthew and Kristie Laveau butcher shop in A‑2 zone (unanimous)
• Approved out‑of‑state travel for County Engineer to attend NACE conferences (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will conduct public hearings regarding two conditional or interim use applications. The body will also discuss Interim Ordinance #41.

• Public hearing: Conditional/Interim Use #425001 – Phi Society LLC
• Public hearing: Conditional/Interim Use #425003 – Matthew and Kristie Laveau
• Discussion: Interim Ordinance #41

The commission approved the June 4, 2025 meeting minutes and the agenda. A public hearing was held for Conditional/Interim Use #425001 (Phi Society LLC) and #425003 (Matthew & Kristie Laveau). Motions to approve findings of fact and to approve or deny the applications were recorded, but the minutes do not state the final approval or denial outcomes.

• Approved June 4, 2025 meeting minutes (vote tally not specified)
• Approved meeting agenda (vote tally not specified)
• Held public hearing on Conditional/Interim Use #425001 – Phi Society LLC (outcome not recorded)
• Held public hearing on Conditional/Interim Use #425003 – Matthew & Kristie Laveau (outcome not recorded)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hear budget presentations from the County Attorney, Community & Family Initiatives, and the Auditor/Treasurer's Office. The body will also discuss a Comprehensive Land Use Plan and strategic transportation investments for the City of Carlton.

• Budget presentations for County Attorney, Community & Family Initiatives, and Auditor/Treasurer
• McKinstry IGA and Contract presentation
• ARDC presentation on transportation system investments for the City of Carlton
• Comprehensive Land Use Plan presentation
• Property Management items: Akitabox Software, UHL Service Contract, and Facility Assessment RFQ

The Committee of the Whole approved the meeting agenda and the July 1, 2025 minutes. Commissioners approved a refill and restructuring request for the Public Health & Human Services Deputy Director. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion by Zmyslony, seconded by Buhs)
• Approved July 1, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Buhs, seconded by Zmyslony)
• Approved PHHS Deputy Director refill/restructure request (motion by Reed, seconded by Zmyslony)
• Approved adjournment (motion by Reed, seconded by Buhs)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss a contract renewal with United Way of Carlton County to provide homeless prevention services for families and youth. The meeting also includes items regarding a truck purchase and the appointment of a County Attorney.

• United Way Homeless Prevention contract renewal for $11,430
• Appointment of County Attorney
• Jolicouer Creek restoration agreement
• Marriage License Amendment fee change
• Truck purchase approval

The commissioners approved the purchase of four 2026 International trucks for the County Transfer Station, each costing $137,940 plus taxes and fees. They also appointed Chief Deputy County Attorney Jeffrey L.H. Boucher as the new County Attorney effective September 29, 2025. Additional actions included accepting a $70,200 federal grant, approving a $40 marriage record amendment fee, and extending a land access agreement with the Fond du Lac Band through November 30, 2027.

• Approved purchase of four 2026 International trucks ($137,940 each) (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Jeffrey L.H. Boucher as County Attorney (5-0)
• Approved acceptance of $70,200 Federal Crime Victim Services Grant (5-0)
• Approved $40 fee for marriage record amendments (5-0)
• Approved $11,430 service agreement with United Way of Carlton County (4-0-1)
• Approved addition of Loan and Grant Administrator position (5-0)
• Approved tax abatement for Greiner Holdings LLC parcel (5-0)
• Approved extension of land access agreement with Fond du Lac Band through Nov 30, 2027 (5-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review budget presentations for the Extension, Recorder, Land, and Economic Development departments. The meeting includes votes on accepting a childcare grant and opting into two pharmaceutical-related legal settlements.

• Northland Foundation Grant for Early Childhood Programs: $23,000
• Purdue/Sackler Family settlement opt-in
• Alvogen, Amneal, Apotex, Hikma, Indivior, Mylan, Sun, and Zydus settlement opt-in
• Budget presentations for Extension, Recorder, Land, and Economic Development

The Carlton County Board unanimously approved the consent agenda, the July 8 meeting minutes, and a $23,000 child‑care grant. It also approved opt‑ins to the Purdue/Sackler Family opioid settlement and to settlements with Alvogen, Amneal, Apotex, Hikma, Indivior, Mylan, Sun and Zydus, authorizing receipt and distribution of those funds. The special agenda was approved and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 8, 2025 regular board meeting (unanimous)
• Accepted $23,000 Northland Foundation FFN child‑care grant (unanimous)
• Approved opt‑in to Purdue/Sackler Family opioid settlement and authorized receipt/distribution (unanimous)
• Approved opt‑in to settlements with Alvogen, Amneal, Apotex, Hikma, Indivior, Mylan, Sun, Zydus and authorized receipt/distribution (unanimous)
• Approved Special Agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment and Appeals will meet to consider a variance request. The meeting includes a public hearing regarding a specific application.

• Public hearing #325011 – Eugene Puline

The Board of Adjustment approved the minutes from the June 17, 2025 meeting. It also approved the findings of fact related to a variance request and granted the variance for applicant Eugene Puline with conditions. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved minutes of June 17, 2025 (outcome: approved)
• Approved findings of fact for variance request (outcome: approved)
• Approved variance for Eugene Puline with conditions (outcome: approved with conditions)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (outcome: approved)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider a request to affirm the Sheriff's Office joining litigation. The action seeks a temporary restraining order and injunction to prevent 2025 Session Law Chapter 35, Article 5 from taking effect.

• Request for Board approval for Sheriff's Office to join litigation regarding 2025 Session Law Chapter 35, Article 5

The board approved the consent agenda, the June 23 minutes, and a settlement related to the former IT director. It authorized a one‑year extension of the recycling contract with Cloquet Riverside Recycling and approved June 2025 vendor payments totaling $9,222,737.28. The board adopted resolution 25‑043 to approve the State’s proposed acquisition of about 495 acres for a wildlife management area, and adopted resolution 25‑044 to enter a MnDOT agreement for Highway 73 improvements. Additional actions included approving an easement for parcel PI D 96‑010‑5640, confirming the sheriff’s department joining the Minnesota Sheriffs Association effort, and adjourning the meeting.

• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Authorized settlement for terminated IT director (unanimous)
• Approved one‑year recycling contract extension with Cloquet Riverside Recycling (unanimous)
• Approved June 2025 vendor payments totaling $9,222,737.28 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 25‑043 approving ~495 acres wildlife land acquisition (unanimous)
• Approved easement for parcel PI D 96‑010‑5640 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 25‑044 entering MnDOT agreement for Highway 73 improvements (unanimous)
• Confirmed sheriff’s department joining Minnesota Sheriffs Association effort (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission meeting scheduled for July 2, 2025, has been canceled.

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review budget presentations and a proposal for a forest carbon project. The body is also considering support for a state land acquisition near the Blackhoof Wildlife Management Area.

• Proposed forest carbon project estimated to generate $6.74 million in net revenue over 40 years
• Proposed acquisition of approximately 489-495 acres for the MN Department of Natural Resources
• Budget presentations from Arrowhead Library System and SWCD
• Discussion on carbon credits with Jeremy Koslowski of Climate Trust
• Review of easement request

The Committee of the Whole approved its agenda and the June 3, 2025 meeting minutes. It voted to support the Minnesota DNR in acquiring Conservation Trust Fund lands to expand the Blackhoof Wildlife Management Area. The Committee also approved an easement across parcel PID 96-010-5640 to secure access to private land. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda
• Approved June 3, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved support for State DNR acquisition to expand Blackhoof Wildlife Management Area
• Approved easement across parcel PID 96-010-5640
• Adjourned meeting

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board of Commissioners will meet to decide on several contracts and operational fees. The session includes budget updates from Veterans Services and the Soil and Water Conservation District.

• Award bid for Historic Courthouse roof replacement
• Renew Southern Carlton County Family Center lease
• Renew Law Librarian contract
• Consider transfer station gate fees
• Discuss solid waste transportation options

The Carlton County Board approved several items on its consent agenda, including a lease renewal, a law librarian contract, travel for the chief deputy attorney, and a land easement. It also approved the adjourned agenda, a plan to end the Carlson Timber hauling contract at the Transfer Station, new gate fees for the Transfer Station, and a historic courthouse roof repair contract. All motions passed with unanimous yea votes except the roof contract, where one commissioner abstained.

• Approved Consent Agenda items, including lease renewal for 1,224 sq ft office ($2,448/mo) (all yea votes)
• Approved Law Librarian contract for $7,500 annually (all yea votes)
• Approved out‑of‑state travel for Chief Deputy Attorney to National Treatment Court Conference (all yea votes)
• Approved preliminary easement of a 30‑ft‑wide land strip in NW Quarter, Sec 30, T48, R16 (all yea votes)
• Approved Adjourned Agenda as presented (all yea votes)
• Approved Transfer Station plan to discontinue Carlson Timber hauling contract, shifting service to county staff (effective July 1 2026) (all yea votes)
• Approved Transfer Station gate fees effective September 1 2025 (all yea votes)
• Approved Historic Courthouse roof repair and replacement contract with BP Builders, LLC for $778,926 (all yea votes; Plante Buhs abstained)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment and Appeals will conduct public hearings to determine findings of fact for granting variances. The board will consider four specific requests, including one amended request tabled from a previous meeting.

• Public hearing #325005: Chad Behnke (amended request)
• Public hearing #325008: Jain Properties LLC
• Public hearing #325009: Michael Doerr
• Public hearing #325010: Vicki Simich

The Board of Adjustment approved the minutes from the May 20, 2025 meeting. It then approved variances for applications #325005 (Chad Behnke), #325008 (Jain Properties LLC), #325009 (Michael Doerr), and #325010 (Vicki Simich), some with conditions. The meeting was adjourned at 9:09 p.m.

• Approved May 20, 2025 meeting minutes (as amended)
• Approved variance with conditions for application #325005 (Chad Behnke)
• Approved variance with conditions for application #325008 (Jain Properties LLC)
• Approved variance for application #325009 (Michael Doerr)
• Approved variance with conditions for application #325010 (Vicki Simich)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:09 p.m.

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review several grant applications for criminal justice and youth programs, as well as a professional services contract for GIS. The meeting includes discussions on state bonding for the Justice Center and a potential interim ordinance.

• Application for a $500,000/3-year OVW grant for Criminal Justice Response Program
• Application for a $500,000/2-year Community Crime Intervention & Prevention Grant
• Acceptance of a $10,454 United Way Community Investment Grant for early childhood readiness
• GIS Professional Services contract with Siona Roberts for $32,510.00
• Confirmation of $10 million state bonding requirements for the Justice Center

The board approved awarding a $598,733.43 contract to Sinnott Contracting for the Moose Lake Multipurpose Trail, pending city council and civil‑rights approval. It also approved applying for and accepting a $500,000 Department of Justice Violence Against Women grant and accepted a $10,454 United Way grant for a kindergarten program. Additional actions included authorizing a $32,510 GIS consulting contract, paying $14,770.23 to Landwehr Construction for completed road work, denying a towing‑business interim use permit, and adopting a green‑burial cemetery moratorium.

• Approved award of $598,733.43 Moose Lake trail contract to Sinnott Contracting (unanimous)
• Approved County Attorney to apply for and accept $500,000 DOJ Violence Against Women grant (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of $10,454 United Way Jump Start for Kindergarten grant (unanimous)
• Approved $32,510 GIS consulting contract with Siona Roberts at $75/hr (unanimous)
• Authorized final payment of $14,770.23 to Landwehr Construction for completed road projects (unanimous)
• Denied Interim Use Permit for Ryan Haluptzok towing business at 1427 Cologne Road (unanimous, Proulx absent)
• Adopted Interim Ordinance No. 41 – Green Burial Cemetery and Natural Organic Reduction Facility Moratorium (unanimous)
• Approved $4,937.50 septic loan to Chad and Tami Nelson and $16,000 loan to Gordon Hanson (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to conduct a public hearing regarding a specific land use request. Other business includes the approval of minutes from March 5, 2025.

• Public hearing for Conditional/Interim Use #425002 – Ryan Haluptzok

The commission approved the meeting minutes and agenda. A public hearing was held on Conditional/Interim Use #425002 submitted by Ryan Haluptzok. The commission voted to deny the permit. The meeting was adjourned at 8:06 PM.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Held public hearing on Conditional/Interim Use #425002 (Ryan Haluptzok)
• Denied Conditional/Interim Use #425002 (Ryan Haluptzok)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:06 PM

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding a proposed moratorium on green burial cemeteries and natural organic reduction facilities. The Zoning Administrator will present the proposed ordinance.

• Public hearing on Carlton County Green Burial Cemetery and Natural Organic Reduction Facility Moratorium
• Presentation of proposed ordinance by the Zoning Administrator

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss various capital budget requests and department updates. A public hearing is scheduled to consider a proposed one-year moratorium on the creation or expansion of green burial cemeteries and natural organic reduction facilities.

• Proposed one-year moratorium on green burial cemeteries and natural organic reduction facilities
• Capital budget request for generator installation at Carlton Transportation Bldg.
• Capital budget request for roof replacement at Barnum Salt Shed
• Capital budget request for Transfer Station upgrades and possible relocation
• Capital budget request for HVAC, window, and ADA bathroom upgrades at HC and LEC

The Committee of the Whole approved the meeting agenda and the May 6, 2025 minutes. It adopted the Policy Committee bylaw changes that shift policy‑development duties to the Finance, Building, Personnel, Safety, and Technology committees. The board also approved hiring an independent contractor for special projects and authorized pursuit of a DOJ grant to fund additional domestic‑abuse services.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion by Zmyslony, seconded by Reed)
• Approved May 6, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Bodie, seconded by Reed)
• Approved Policy Committee bylaw reorganization (motion by Genereau, seconded by Reed)
• Approved hiring independent contractor for special projects (motion by Westphal, seconded by Reed)
• Approved pursuit of DOJ grant for domestic‑abuse services (motion by Ketola, seconded by Marv)

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board of Commissioners will vote on approving a planning and feasibility study agreement for the county transfer station. The study will assess operational impacts from increased waste hauling distances and explore upgrades like a reuse center to support waste diversion and facility modernization.

• Approve Transfer Station Planning and Feasibility Study Agreement
• Evaluate feasibility of separating C&D from mixed waste for shorter hauls to SKB Cloquet-Shamrock Landfill
• Explore development of a reuse center to extend life of usable materials
• Assess aging buildings on solid waste campus lacking load-out bays
• Inform future Capital Assistance Program (CAP) grant application to Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) for facility upgrades

The Carlton County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the Consent Agenda. The approval included the May 13, 2025 meeting minutes, issuance of 2025‑2026 hauler and recycling facility licenses to listed companies, and vendor claim payments for December 2024, January 2025, and February 2025. All motions were carried by unanimous yea votes.

• Approve May 13, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approve issuance of 2025‑2026 hauler licenses to listed firms (unanimous)
• Approve issuance of recycling facility licenses to listed firms (unanimous)
• Approve December 2024 vendor claim payments (unanimous)
• Approve January 2025 vendor claim payments (unanimous)
• Approve February 2025 vendor claim payments (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Carlton County Board of Adjustment will conduct public hearings on four variance requests at its May 20, 2025 meeting. The board will also approve the minutes from the April 15, 2025 meeting and receive a legal ad statement published in local newspapers.

• Public hearing on variance request #325004 by Michael Hiti
• Public hearing on variance request #325005 by Chad Behnke
• Public hearing on variance request #325006 by Phillip Thieling
• Public hearing on variance request #325007 by James and Sheila Fetters

The Board of Adjustment approved the findings of fact and granted variances with conditions for applications 325004, 325006, and 325007. Application 325005 was tabled at the request of the applicant's representative for further discussion. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved findings of fact for variance #325004 (Michael Hiti)
• Approved variance #325004 with conditions
• Tabled variance request #325005 (Randy Sorenson) for future meeting
• Approved variance #325006 with conditions
• Approved findings of fact for variance #325007 (James & Sheila Fetters)
• Approved variance #325007 with conditions

County Board of Commissioners

The board will vote on a consent agenda that includes an addendum increasing the Human Development Center contract by $11,816 for mental health outreach services. They will also consider issuing a request for qualifications for a comprehensive land use plan update and schedule a public hearing on a green burial moratorium. Other items include renewal of a joint powers agreement for criminal justice data and a fraud prevention grant with Aitkin County.

• Approve HDC contract addendum increasing mental health funding by $11,816 to $371,511 annually for adult services and $65,111 for children
• Consider issuing RFQ for 2025 Comprehensive Land Use Plan update
• Schedule public hearing for interim ordinance on Green Burial moratorium
• Renew Minnesota Joint Powers Agreement and court data services subscriber amendment (Contract #264630)
• Consider Fraud Prevention Grant with Aitkin County

The board unanimously approved several contracts and resolutions, including a $371,511 annual addendum for adult mental‑health services and $65,111 for children’s services with the Human Development Center. It also adopted a joint powers agreement with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety to connect the sheriff’s office to the state criminal‑justice data network, and approved a related SWIFT contract amendment. Additional actions included setting a public hearing on a green‑burial moratorium, accepting a $67,414 annual DHS fraud‑prevention grant, issuing an RFQ for the comprehensive land‑use plan, and approving a land‑exchange for a storm‑water pond project.

• Approved Consent Agenda (all yea votes)
• Approved addendum to HDC mental‑health contract ($371,511 adult, $65,111 children) (all yea votes)
• Approved Joint Powers Agreements with State Dept. of Public Safety (all yea votes)
• Approved Court Data Services Subscriber Amendment for SWIFT contract (all yea votes)
• Set public hearing on June 3 for green burial cemetery moratorium (all yea votes)
• Accepted DHS Regional Fraud Prevention Grant $67,414 annually (all yea votes)
• Approved RFQ for County Comprehensive Land Use Plan and appointed selection committee (all yea votes)
• Approved property transfer and land exchange for storm‑water pond project (all yea votes)

Planning Commission

The Carlton County Planning Commission meeting scheduled for May 7, 2025, has been canceled. No decisions or discussions will take place. For questions, the public is directed to contact the zoning office.

Committee of the Whole

The Carlton County Committee of the Whole will hear a risk management report from MCIT, then discuss several items including budget presentation format, a fraud prevention investigator grant, a letter of support for Go Rail, and zoning updates. The committee will also discuss the county's 2025 lobbying priorities. No formal votes are scheduled; this is a discussion meeting.

• MCIT report with 2024 dividend of $60,444 and reinsurance cost changes
• Planning and review of budget presentation format
• Fraud Prevention Investigator Grant and potential hosting of regional contract for 2026-2027
• Discussion of letter of support for Go Rail project
• Discussion of 2025 lobbying priorities

The Committee approved the meeting agenda and the April 1, 2025 minutes. A moratorium was approved to review a possible new cemetery statute and a Minnesota Department of Health study. The board approved hiring a .5 FTE fraud prevention investigator with a $67.4K budget. It also approved a letter of support for GoRail and set the next regular meeting for June 3, 2025.

• Approved agenda (motion by Reed, seconded by Zmyslony)
• Approved April 1, 2025 minutes (motion by Buhs, seconded by Reed)
• Approved cemetery moratorium to review new statute and health study (motion by Zmyslony, seconded by Reed)
• Approved .5 FTE fraud prevention investigator position with $67.4K funding (motion by Annie, seconded by Marv)
• Approved letter of support for GoRail (motion by Reed, seconded by Bodie)
• Approved scheduling of next regular meeting on June 3, 2025 (motion by Reed, seconded by Buhs)

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board will meet in adjourned session to act on a consent agenda and regular agenda. Items include renewing a purchase of service contract with Lutheran Social Services for $10,000, considering support for an ATV club grant, awarding bids for airport and road projects, and holding a closed session for union negotiations. The consent agenda also includes routine approvals.

• Renewal of purchase of service contract with Lutheran Social Services for $10,000
• Award bid for Moose Lake airport taxilane rehabilitation
• Award bid for grading and microsurfacing on county roads
• EDA loan for Carlton County Fair
• EDA loan for Moose Lake EDA

The Board unanimously approved a $2,325,731.89 contract to Asphalt Surface Technologies for micro‑surfacing on CSAH 61. It also approved an airport lease, a hazard‑mitigation sub‑grant, a joint powers agreement for criminal‑justice data, a gambling exempt permit, and proclaimed May 2025 as Mental Health Month. Resolutions supporting Northern Lights Academy, the ATV Club, and a spongy‑moth treatment letter were also adopted.

• Approved $2,325,731.89 micro‑surfacing contract on CSAH 61 to Asphalt Surface Technologies (unanimous)
• Approved airport property lease to Davide Matuseski and Susan Paulson at $118 per acre for five years (unanimous)
• Approved sub‑grant agreement with the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management for Hazard Mitigation Assistance (unanimous)
• Approved Joint Powers Agreements with the State Department of Public Safety, Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (unanimous)
• Approved Court Data Services Subscriber Amendment to SWIFT contract (unanimous)
• Approved Minnesota Lawful Gambling Exempt Permit for Lakehead Harvest Reunion (unanimous)
• Proclaimed May 2025 as Mental Health Month in Carlton County (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution supporting Northern Lights Academy and willingness to facilitate a land transfer (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Carlton County Board of Adjustment & Appeals will meet on April 15, 2025, at 7:00 PM. The board will hold public hearings on three variance applications: #325001 (Thomas Rarick), #325002 (Jennifer Snyder and Jason Swenson), and #325003 (Mark and Cynthia Lund). The board will also consider approving minutes from January 21, 2025, and acknowledge the legal ad published in the Star Gazette and Pine Knot News.

• Public hearing on variance application #325001 (Thomas Rarick)
• Public hearing on variance application #325002 (Jennifer Snyder and Jason Swenson)
• Public hearing on variance application #325003 (Mark and Cynthia Lund)
• Consideration of minutes from January 21, 2025
• Legal ad published in Star Gazette (April 3) and Pine Knot News (April 4)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss solar energy and Inflation Reduction Act rebate proposals for the Justice Center. The meeting includes decisions on land leases and a data-sharing agreement with the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.

• Justice Center solar energy project proposal
• Inflation Reduction Act rebate bid proposals
• Renewal of approximately 45 cabin, agriculture, and industrial leases with no rate increases
• LIDAR data sharing agreement with the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa
• Acceptance of the 2025 State of MN annual county Boat and Water safety grant

The Carlton County Board approved a $268,400 allocation of opioid settlement funds for treatment, prevention, harm reduction, leadership, and administration. It also renewed all county land leases at unchanged rates and approved several contracts and agreements, including a LiDAR data‑sharing pact, a boat safety grant, a timber auction, a solar‑project study, and a geothermal‑rebate report. All motions were carried by unanimous yea votes.

• Approved $268,400 opioid settlement allocation (unanimous)
• Renewed all county land leases without rate increase (unanimous)
• Approved five‑year LiDAR data‑sharing agreement with Fond du Lac Reservation (unanimous)
• Authorized $7,986 County Boat and Water Safety Grant (unanimous)
• Approved $36,804 annual contract with Bill Thompson for child‑protection services (unanimous)
• Set County Timber Auction for May 23, 2025 and approved listed timber tracts (unanimous)
• Approved $180,444 engineering study contract with McKinstry Essention for a potential solar project (unanimous)
• Approved $45,000 contract with Ryan, LLC to report the Justice Center geothermal energy rebate (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The April 2, 2025 Carlton County Planning Commission meeting has been canceled. No items were discussed or decided.

Committee of the Whole

The Committee will hear presentations on J Turns transportation and the opioid settlement. They will consider a LiDAR Data Sharing Agreement, cabin lease renewals, and the 5-year Capital Improvement Plan for transportation. Updates will be given on budget planning, public outreach, and Data Practices Policy updates.

• LiDAR Data Sharing Agreement (Land)
• Cabin lease renewals (Land)
• 5-year Capital Improvement Plan (Transportation)
• Opioid Settlement Presentation by Ali Bachinski
• Approve Data Practices Policy updates

The Committee of the Whole approved several items, including the LiDAR Data Sharing Agreement with FDL and the renewal of cabin leases. The board also approved updates to the Data Practices Policy, the meeting agenda, and the prior meeting minutes. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved agenda (motion by Reed, seconded by Bodie)
• Approved March 4, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Buhs, seconded by Zmyslony)
• Approved Data Practices Policy updates (motion by Proulx, seconded by Bodie)
• Approved LiDAR Data Sharing Agreement with FDL (motion by Bodie, seconded by Zmyslony)
• Approved cabin lease renewals (motion by Reed, seconded by Buhs)

County Board of Commissioners

The board will consider consent agenda items including a contract for attorney Bill Thompson to represent parents in child protection cases at $130/hour and adding US Bank as a second credit card option. Under regular agenda, they will discuss an update on opioid settlement funds, consider a letter of support for Thomson Township, set a cannabis registration fee schedule, and address other administrative matters such as watershed committee assignments and an ATV-related letter to legislators.

• Approve contract for Bill Thompson as attorney for CHIPS/TPR/LTFC/TL&PC at $130/hour
• Add US Bank as second credit card option for county purchases
• Set cannabis registration fee schedule
• Discuss update on opioid settlement funds/plans
• Consider letter of support for Thomson Township

The board adopted resolution 25-020 urging the 2025 Legislature to reject the governor’s proposal and fully restore PILT funding. It also approved a contract with Bill Thompson at $130 per hour for child protection services, added US Bank as a second county credit card option, and set cannabis registration fees. Additional actions included approving the consent agenda, supporting a wastewater grant for Thomson Township, and accepting a $1,000 artwork donation for county use. All motions were carried by unanimous yea votes of the present commissioners.

• Approved Consent Agenda items, including adding US Bank as a second county credit card option (carried by all yea votes)
• Approved contract with Bill Thompson at $130 per hour for CHIPS, TPR, LTFC, and TL&PC matters (carried by all yea votes)
• Approved cannabis registration fees, setting renewal fees for microbusiness, mezzobusiness, retailer, and other categories (carried by all yea votes)
• Adopted resolution 25-020 urging the 2025 Legislature to fully restore PILT funding (carried by all yea votes, except Proulx absent)
• Adopted resolution 25-021 accepting a $1,000 artwork donation from Arrowhead Juvenile Center for county buildings (carried by all yea votes, except Proulx absent)
• Approved a letter of support for Thomson Township for a WLSSD Wastewater Service Planning Grant (carried by all yea votes)
• Approved addition of a new truck for hauler Nordstrom’s (carried by all yea votes)
• Reapproved primary and alternate board members for the One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P) (carried by all yea votes)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for March 18, 2025, has been canceled.

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a rezoning request and reconsider support for CRP funds. The session includes a review of the 2024 Zoning and Environmental Services Annual Report and various administrative approvals.

• Rezoning Request #525002-Mark Arnold
• Reconsideration of support for CRP funds
• 2024 Zoning & Environmental Services Annual Report
• Support letter for Carlton County Riders ATV Club limited use permit
• FY2025 CVSO Grant

The Carlton County Board approved a rezoning request for property in Atkinson Township, adopted a resolution to enter a grant contract with the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, and approved a contract amendment with Northstar Community Services. The board also tabled reconsideration of Carbon Reduction Program support for Highway 61 and presented EMS awards.

• Approved consent agenda including 2024 zoning report and ATV club letter of support (all yea)
• Approved Northstar Community Services contract amendment at $44/hour for SILS (all yea)
• Approved rezoning No. 525002 for Mark Arnold from A-1 to A-2 in Atkinson Township (all yea)
• Tabled reconsideration of Carbon Reduction Program support for Highway 61 (all yea)
• Adopted Resolution 25-019 for MDVA grant contract for Veterans Service Office (all yea)
• Approved letter of support for Cloquet trail bridge funding (all yea)

Planning Commission

The Carlton County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on Rezoning application #525002 submitted by Mark Arnold. The meeting also includes approval of February 5, 2025 minutes, a legal ad statement, and other routine procedural items. No other substantive business is listed.

• Public hearing on Rezoning #525002 – Mark Arnold

Committee of the Whole

The Carlton County Committee of the Whole will convene on March 4, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the Carlton County Transportation Building. The meeting will include a presentation on Spongy Moth Treatment by the MN Department of Agriculture, updates from department heads, and consideration of the 2024 Policy Committee Annual Report. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda beyond routine approvals.

• MN Department of Agriculture – Spongy Moth Treatment Presentation
• Approval of the 2024 Policy Committee Annual Report
• Carlton County Chiefs Association request for County Commissioner representative
• Historic Courthouse Board Room remodel update
• 2024 Annual Zoning & Environmental Services Report

The Carlton County Committee of the Whole approved several items, including rejecting all jail food service proposals and keeping the current provider, supporting an ATV club's trail route extension, and approving the removal of courtroom items from the Historic Courthouse Board Room. The board also accepted the 2024 Policy Committee Annual Report and the 2024 Zoning & Environmental Services Report.

• Approved agenda and February 4, 2025 minutes
• Accepted 2024 Policy Committee Annual Report
• Approved Commissioner Zmyslony as Carlton County Chiefs Association representative
• Rejected all jail food service proposals, keeping current provider
• Supported CC Riders ATV Club grant-in-aid trail route extension
• Approved removal of courtroom items from Historic Courthouse Board Room
• Accepted 2024 Zoning & Environmental Services Annual Report

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board will consider awarding a $4.86 million road improvement contract to KGM Contractors and a $1.11 million contract to Maertens-Brenny for a 9-unit T-hangar at Cloquet Airport, contingent on FAA and MnDOT funding. They will also approve an out-of-state travel request for a treatment court conference, a Memorandum of Agreement for the UMGR One Watershed One Plan, a Housing Trust Fund appointment, and a new liquor license. Consent agenda includes approval of February 11 regular session minutes.

• Award contract for SAP 009-600-007 (LOW) road work to KGM Contractors for $4,861,429.71
• Award contract for Cloquet Airport 9-unit T-hangar site development to Maertens-Brenny Construction Company for $1,108,280.00
• Approve out-of-state travel for an Adult Services team member to National Treatment Court Conference in Kissimmee, Florida (May 27-31)
• Approve MOA for UMGR One Watershed One Plan
• Approve new liquor license and Housing Trust Fund appointment

The board approved a $4,861,429.71 road construction contract with KGM Contractors, Inc. for multiple county roads, contingent on City of Cloquet approval. They also approved a $1,108,280.00 airport hangar contract with Maertens-Brenny Construction, subject to FAA and Mn/DOT funding. Other actions included approving a $160,000 EDA grant to ISD 100-Wrenshall School, a liquor license for Tequila Town, and several appointments and agreements.

• Approved $4,861,429.71 road contract with KGM Contractors (all yea votes)
• Approved $1,108,280.00 airport T-hangar contract with Maertens-Brenny Construction (all yea votes)
• Approved $160,000 EDA grant to ISD 100-Wrenshall School (all yea votes)
• Approved 2024-2025 liquor license for Tequila Town, conditional on township and county approvals (all yea votes)
• Approved MOA with Fond du Lac Band for road funding eligibility (all yea votes)
• Approved MnDOT agreement for tree clearing on TH 73 trail (all yea votes)
• Approved watershed management MOA with multiple counties and tribes (all yea votes)
• Approved special assessment of $13,831.00 to Jason Osterman for cleanup (all yea votes)

Board of Adjustment

The Carlton County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for February 18, 2025, has been canceled. No items were discussed or decided.

• Meeting cancellation notice issued January 30, 2025

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular session on February 11, 2025, addressing a consent agenda that includes renewing a guardianship attorney contract at $130 per hour and several regular agenda items. Among the regular agenda items are conditional use permits, rezoning requests, a food waste collection contract, a vault master service agreement, and a new liquor license. The board will also consider committee reports, employee service awards, and an appointment to the NWCC Ambulance Committee.

• Renew Adrienne Pearson Guardianship Contract at $130/hour (Consent Agenda)
• Conditional/Interim Use Permit #424009 - Northstar Community Services
• Rezoning Request #524006 - Michael Moe
• Rezoning Request #525001 - Carlton County Agricultural & Industrial Association
• Approve Food Waste Collection Contract (Regular Agenda)

The Carlton County Board voted 4-1 to move from a County Coordinator to a County Administrator, with a two-year trial period starting February 11, 2025, and no change in paygrade or additional support positions. The board also approved several zoning permits, contracts, and other routine items. All other motions passed unanimously.

• Approved moving to Administrator form of government with two-year trial (4-1, Reed nay)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Northstar Community Services therapeutic support center (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning for Michael Moe property in Holyoke Township (unanimous)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for Jesse Fitzsimmons storage yard in Twin Lakes Township (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning for Carlton County Fair property in Barnum Township (unanimous)
• Approved food waste collection agreement with Cloquet Riverside Recycling (unanimous)
• Approved drug screening services agreement with Vault Workforce Screening (unanimous)
• Approved contract for Adrienne Pearson for guardianship/conservatorship services (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Carlton County Planning Commission meets to hold public hearings on two conditional/interim use permits and two rezoning requests. The items include Conditional/Interim Use #424009 (Heather Wright/North Star Community Services), Rezoning #524006 (Michael Moe), Conditional/Interim Use #424010 (Jesse Fitzsimmons), and Rezoning #525001 (Carlton County Agricultural & Industrial Association). No other substantive business is listed.

• Conditional/Interim Use #424009 – Heather Wright/North Star Community Services
• Rezoning Request #524006 – Michael Moe
• Conditional/Interim Use #424010 – Jesse Fitzsimmons
• Rezoning Request #525001 – Carlton County Agricultural & Industrial Association

The Carlton County Planning Commission approved all four public hearing items: a conditional use permit for Heather Wright/Northstar Community Services, a rezoning for Michael Moe, an interim use permit for Jesse Fitzsimmons, and a rezoning for the Carlton County Agricultural & Industrial Association. All votes were unanimous (6-0) with one member absent. The meeting also included approval of the January 8, 2025 minutes and the agenda.

• Approved findings of fact for CUP #424009 (Heather Wright/Northstar Community Services) (6-0)
• Approved CUP #424009 as amended (6-0)
• Approved rezoning #524006 (Michael Moe) (6-0)
• Approved findings of fact for IUP #424010 (Jesse Fitzsimmons) (6-0)
• Approved IUP #424010 (6-0)
• Approved rezoning #525001 (Carlton County Agricultural & Industrial Association) (6-0)
• Approved minutes of January 8, 2025 (6-0)
• Approved agenda (6-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Carlton County Committee of the Whole will discuss and potentially approve a Memorandum of Understanding with Community Memorial Hospital to support the hospital's participation in the federal 340B drug discount program, ensuring care for low-income residents. They will also discuss merging County Administrator duties into the County Coordinator position and review annual reports from the Management Team and Building Committee. Departmental updates on economic development, HR, IT, property management, and transportation are scheduled, along with discussion of lobbying priorities.

• Memorandum of Understanding with Community Memorial Hospital for 340B drug discount program (no dollar amount specified)
• Discussion on adding County Administrator duties to the County Coordinator position
• Approval of the 2024 Management Team Annual Report
• Approval of the 2024 Building Committee Annual Report
• Discussion of 2025 lobbying priorities

The Carlton County Committee of the Whole approved a memorandum of understanding with Community Memorial Hospital for participation in the 340B drug pricing program, which requires the hospital to contract with a unit of government to provide healthcare services to low-income individuals. The committee also approved the 2024 Management Team and Building Committee annual reports, and moved discussion of adding County Administrator duties to the County Coordinator position to the next board meeting. Several department updates were presented for information only, and no other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved 340B Program MOU with Community Memorial Hospital (motion by Buhs, second by Zmyslony)
• Approved 2024 Management Team Annual Report (motion by Bodie, second by Buhs)
• Approved 2024 Building Committee Annual Report (motion by Zmyslony, second by Reed)
• Moved discussion of County Administrator duties to next board meeting (motion by Zmyslony, second by Bodie)

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board will hold a public hearing on a rezoning request (Petition #524005) from Susan Seabury. The board is also set to approve a $39,792.70 final payment for a road microsurfacing project, accept a $23,852 federal emergency management grant, and act on several other contracts, grants, and appointments.

• Rezoning request #524005 from Susan Seabury (public hearing)
• Final payment of $39,792.70 to Asphalt Surface Technologies for road microsurfacing (projects SAP 009-616-005 and SAP 009-645-007)
• Accept $23,852 2023 Emergency Management Performance Grant (with $23,852 match from county)
• Support application for Carbon Reduction Program Funds (transportation)
• Approve contract for Matt Miller as county attorney

The Carlton County Board of Commissioners held an adjourned session on January 27, 2025, approving a consent agenda with resolutions for a road project final payment, a grant acceptance, and expenditure listings. They also approved several out-of-state travel requests, a rezoning, and multiple resolutions supporting grants and financing. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved final payment of $39,792.70 to Asphalt Surface Technologies for CSAH 16 project (all yea)
• Accepted 2023 Emergency Management Performance Grant of $28,852 (all yea)
• Approved October 2024 expenditures totaling $14,314,168.26 (all yea)
• Approved claims over $2,000 totaling $12,165,372.49 and under $2,000 totaling $247,525.48 (all yea)
• Approved rezoning of property at 499 and 521 Brookston Road from A-1 to A-2 (all yea)
• Adopted resolution supporting Federal Recreational Trail Program grant for Wood City Riders (all yea)
• Approved contract with Matthew Miller for $36,800 for child protection services (all yea)
• Approved consulting agreement with North Country Strategies at $3,000/month (all yea)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment and Appeals will elect a Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson. The board will also hold a public hearing regarding a variance request for Andrew Bylund.

• Election of Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson
• Public hearing #324019 for Andrew Bylund

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a rezoning application by Susan Seabury (case #524005). The meeting also includes the election of officers for the year and approval of the December 4, 2024 meeting minutes.

• Election of Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and Secretary
• Approval of December 4, 2024 meeting minutes
• Legal ad statements confirming public notice published in Star Gazette and Pine Knot News
• Public hearing on rezoning – Susan Seabury #524005

The Carlton County Planning Commission unanimously approved Rezoning Request #524005 submitted by Susan Seabury. The commission also elected Keith Depre as Chairperson, Dan Belden as Vice-Chairperson, and Mike Abrahamson as Secretary. The minutes from December 4, 2024, were approved, and the agenda was approved as amended.

• Approved Rezoning Request #524005 for Susan Seabury (7-0)
• Elected Keith Depre as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Dan Belden as Vice-Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Mike Abrahamson as Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of December 4, 2024 (7-0)
• Approved agenda as amended (7-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Carlton County Board of Commissioners holds its annual meeting to elect a chairperson and vice-chairperson for 2025, approve a consent agenda including reappointments and a transportation bidding resolution, and consider several administrative items such as a conflict of interest resolution, updated personnel policy, and appointments to commissions and committees.

• Election of Board Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson for 2025
• Reappointment of Rick Breuer to the Community Health Board for a three-year term
• Approval of a resolution to use the county website for disseminating transportation construction and maintenance bids and requests
• Consideration of an updated Personnel Policy
• Approval of a Conflict of Interest Resolution for county officials and employees

The Carlton County Board of Commissioners held its annual session, administering oaths to newly elected commissioners and electing Marv Bodie as chair and Thomas R. Proulx as vice-chair for 2025. The board approved the consent agenda, including a resolution allowing online publication of transportation bid solicitations, and adopted resolutions supporting a Safe Routes to School grant application, establishing a conflict-of-interest policy, awarding legal publication bids, and setting the 2025 meeting schedule. Numerous committee appointments and the 2025 Personnel Policy were also approved.

• Elected Marv Bodie as Chairperson for 2025 (all yea)
• Elected Thomas R. Proulx as Vice-Chairperson for 2025 (all yea)
• Approved consent agenda including Resolution 25-001 for online bid dissemination (all yea)
• Approved Resolution 25-002 supporting Fond du Lac Band's Safe Routes to School application (all yea)
• Approved Resolution 25-003 establishing conflict-of-interest policy (all yea)
• Awarded 2025 legal publications bid at $14.80 per S.A.U. to Moose Lake Star Gazette and Pine Knot News (all yea)
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule and Committee of the Whole appointments (all yea)
• Approved 2025 Personnel Policy and PHHS Director salary at Grade 250, Step 4 (all yea)