Cass County, MN

County Commissioners

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will meet on August 18, 2026, at Pike Bay Township. They will hold public hearings on an off-sale intoxicating liquor license and the revocation of roads within Pike Bay Township. The board will also consider approving a tire transportation and recycling proposal from Saber Shred Solutions Inc., and a large consent agenda with numerous administrative items.

• Public hearing on off-sale intoxicating liquor license
• Public hearing on revocation of roads in Pike Bay Township
• Approve proposal from Saber Shred Solutions Inc. for tire transportation and recycling
• Approve final payment on Contract 26002
• Approve county credit card limit increase and business credit agreement with Amazon

The Cass County Board unanimously approved revoking portions of County Roads 143, 146, and 148 to Pike Bay Township, with the county maintaining them for two years. They also approved a consent agenda including warrants, licenses, and zoning reclassifications, and referred tire recycling proposals back to committee for further review.

• Adopted Resolution 42-26 revoking 6.4 miles of county roads to Pike Bay Township (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $647,509.38 in auditor warrants and other payments (unanimous)
• Approved off-sale liquor license for Big Winnie Store & Recreation (unanimous)
• Referred tire recycling proposals to Solid Waste Committee for further review (unanimous)
• Approved final payment of $468,443.97 for road striping contract 26002 (unanimous)
• Approved gambling permit for Immanuel Lutheran School event (unanimous)
• Approved zoning reclassifications for seven properties as recommended by Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Approved $1,912,400.51 PILT distribution and $125,424.00 Wildlife Management Lands distribution (unanimous)

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass County Soil and Water Conservation District board will consider approving several payment vouchers for critical area planting projects and receive reports from partner agencies. The meeting also includes approval of minutes, treasurer's report, and grant applications.

• Approval of payment vouchers CS529-25, CS532-25, CS534-25, and CS577-26 for critical area planting from LLR P3 and Mississippi Grand Rapids W
• Receive and file canceled contracts CS504-25 and CS511-25
• Receive and file notice of dividend payments from MCIT
• Approval of application for CAI Grant FY27
• Receive and file Minnesota Department of Health Private Well Protection Grant

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Cass County Planning Commission will meet on August 10, 2026, to consider six reclassifications, two conditional use permits, and nine variances. Field inspections were conducted on August 3. Decisions will affect properties across multiple townships including land use changes and shoreline setback requests.

• Reclassification of 2.5 acres to Commercial (C-2) for Concordia Wireless at 2835 County 54 NE in Wabedo Township
• Reclassification of 10 acres from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 10 for Grant Rindal in Walden Township
• Conditional Use Permit for outdoor boat/RV storage on 98.7 acres for LJAMZ Entertainment LLC at 7058 39th Ave NW in Turtle Lake Township
• Variance for 8' x 11.5' addition on Washburn Lake at 2220 Peninsula Road NE, Crooked Lake Township (38-ft setback vs. 75-ft required)
• After-the-fact variance for boathouse on Sanborn Lake at 661 31st Avenue NW, Powers Township (31-ft setback vs. 100-ft required)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve routine contracts, personnel items, and fund uses, including a temperature-control retrofit contract and roadway maintenance payments. They will also discuss the impact of a Department of Revenue dispute on local property tax levies and receive reclassification requests from county employees.

• Approve contract with Sourcewell for temperature control retrofit at county facilities
• Award Contract 60020 to Midwest Contracting, LLC for roadway maintenance
• Approve final payment on CM 2026-03 Roadway Chloride 2026 project
• Approve Sheriff’s Office equipment purchases
• Discuss Department of Revenue dispute impacts on local property tax levies

The Cass County Board approved a $746,765.29 contract with Midwest Contracting for road improvements on County Road 161 and South Little Thunder Drive, funded partly by state park road funds. They also approved $200,000 from Fund 73 to the City of East Gull Lake for a regional trailhead and nature preserve. The board unanimously approved a $208,758.47 HVAC control retrofit contract with Peterson Sheet Metal via Sourcewell, and adopted Resolution 41-26 for final payment on the roadway chloride project. All decisions were unanimous.

• Approved Contract 60020 with Midwest Contracting for $746,765.29 (unanimous)
• Approved $200,000 Fund 73 grant to City of East Gull Lake for trailhead (unanimous)
• Approved Sourcewell HVAC retrofit contract for $208,758.47 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 41-26 final payment on roadway chloride to Edwards Oil (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including warrants totaling over $2.1 million (unanimous)
• Approved OP-ED on Enbridge property tax dispute for distribution (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will conduct a public hearing and consider a joint powers agreement regarding the revocation of roads in Turtle Lake Township. The board will also vote on road designations and various personnel and contract approvals via a consent agenda.

• Public hearing and Joint Powers Agreement for road revocations in Turtle Lake Township
• Designation of County Road No. 113 and County Road No. 116
• Engineering services contract award for Bridge 11504 on CSAH 8
• Updated recycling agreement with AJ's Rolloffs and Demolition Landfill
• Approval of cannabis and lower-potency hemp edible retail registrations

The Board approved the transfer of County Road 124, County Road 153, and part of County State Aid Highway 72 to Turtle Lake Township. The Board also approved several zoning reclassifications and a series of auditor warrants totaling over $5 million.

• Approved Resolution 39-26 to revocate CR 124, CR 153, and part of CSAH 72 to Turtle Lake Township
• Approved auditor warrants totaling $5,151,356.21 across multiple dates
• Approved zoning reclassifications for Mark Ronnei (Sylvan Township), Jesse Strege (Sylvan Township), and Judah Sporre (Wilkinson Township)
• Adopted Resolution 37-26 approving a gambling permit for North Country Chapter of Pheasants Forever
• Approved $114,578.29 for backup storage replacement with SHI International Inc.
• Approved $41,866 for Land Department camera system replacement with ElectroWatchman Inc.
• Approved $27,054.00 for concrete sidewalk replacement with Anderson Brothers
• Approved 2026 standard mileage rate increase to $0.76 per mile

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission will review several land‑use applications, including four reclassifications of acreage from Shoreland Residential or Agricultural Forested to commercial or residential zones, a final plat for a 13.3‑acre storage development, conditional use permits for a storage PUD and a 255‑foot communications tower, and multiple variance requests for setbacks, retaining walls, and building additions on riparian properties.

• Reclassify 40.06 acres (13577 68th Avenue NW) from Agricultural Forested to Rural Residential
• Final plat for “Trails and Lakes Storage” (13.3 acres, 29 storage lots) in Birch Lake Township
• Conditional use permit for a 29‑unit storage PUD on the same Birch Lake parcel
• Conditional use permit for a 255‑foot wireless communications tower at 2835 County 54 NE
• Variance for septic absorption area on 7063 Heath Trail NW (Shingobee Township) requiring 3.9‑ft setback

The Cass County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved the final plat and conditional use permit for the 29-unit Trails and Lakes Storage PUD in Birch Lake Township. The commission also recommended approval of three land reclassification requests, including one for Mark Ronnei in Sylvan Township. Several variances were approved, including for a new home on Rice Lake and a garage on Two Lake, while two variances were denied, including one for an after-the-fact septic setback in Shingobee Township.

• Approved final plat for Trails and Lakes Storage, a 29-lot storage PUD in Birch Lake Township (7-0).
• Approved conditional use permit for the 29-unit Trails and Lakes Storage PUD (7-0).
• Recommended approval of Mark Ronnei's reclassification of 10.17 acres to Sylvan Commercial in Sylvan Township (7-0).
• Recommended approval of Judah Sporre's reclassification of 40.06 acres to Rural Residential 5 in Wilkinson Township (7-0).
• Recommended approval of Jesse Strege's reclassification of 6.25 acres to Sylvan Commercial in Sylvan Township (7-0).
• Denied Joel Barrick's after-the-fact variance for a septic setback and impervious surface in Shingobee Township (7-0).
• Denied Michael Carlson's variance to subdivide property with 16.5 feet of right-of-way access in Sylvan Township (6-1).
• Approved a 255-foot communications tower for Concordia Wireless in Wabedo Township (7-0).

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District board will approve payment vouchers for critical area planting, well sealing, and woodland stewardship plans. The meeting includes reports from the NRCS, the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, and the district's supervisors.

• Approval of payment voucher CS536-25 for $342 critical area planting
• Approval of payment voucher CS547-26 for woodland stewardship plan
• Approval of payment voucher CS551-26 for FSP from Crow Wing River WBIF
• Approval of treasurer's report for bills paid through June 20, 2026
• Approval to send out RFP for two culvert designs on the Boy River

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District board approved a joint application with Hubbard and Becker SWCDs for a Conservation Partners Program grant, authorized sending an RFP for culvert designs and hydraulic modeling for two Boy River crossings, and approved several routine items including the treasurer's report, payment vouchers, and renewal of a CD. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda with three added items
• Approved consent agenda including June minutes and payment voucher CS535-25
• Approved treasurer's report, bills paid, and checking statement ending 6/18/2026
• Approved joint application with Hubbard and Becker SWCDs for Conservation Partners Program
• Approved sending RFP for two culvert designs and hydraulic modeling for Boy River crossings
• Approved renewal of CD maturing July 22, 2026 at best 7-month rate
• Approved payment voucher CS547-26 for Woodland Stewardship Plan
• Approved payment voucher CS551-26 for FSP from Crow Wing River WBIF Ph 1

County Commissioners

The board will hold a public hearing for the third reading of the Cass County Land Use Ordinance. They will also consider approving a camera system server upgrade with ElectroWatchman Inc. and establishing a public hearing to vacate portions of CR 143, CR 146, and CR 148 to Pike Bay Township. Additional items include reports from the opioid settlement committee and the Central Minnesota Council on Aging, plus a large consent agenda covering personnel, licenses, grants, and road contracts.

• Public hearing (3rd reading) on Cass County Land Use Ordinance
• Approve camera system server upgrade with ElectroWatchman Inc.
• Establish public hearing to revocate portions of CR 143, CR 146, and CR 148 to Pike Bay Township
• Approve MnDOT agreement 1063458 for CSAH 1 bridge replacement project
• Sheriff's Office K-9 transfer, recognition and introduction

The Board approved the regular and consent agendas, including various auditor warrants and personnel notices. Additionally, commissioners unanimously authorized the transfer of retired K-9 Ranger to Deputy Truitt Buckhouse.

• Approved Regular Agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Authorized transfer of retired K-9 Ranger to Deputy Truitt Buckhouse (unanimous)
• Approved liquor license renewals for multiple local establishments
• Approved cannabis retailer registration for Cabin Fever Co.
• Approved ARPA Grant activity for Itasca County Sheriff’s Office
• Approved 2026 Opioid Settlement Funds activity
• Approved State Affordable Housing Aid for Leech Lake Financial Services

County Commissioners

The board will consider a new 2026-2028 labor contract with AFSCME Local 2195 for HHVS employees and an update to personnel rules. A public hearing is scheduled for an off-sale intoxicating liquor license. The board also plans to deny a reclassification request for Shon Jensen. The consent agenda includes numerous personnel items, contract approvals, and speed study filings.

• Approve 2026-2028 AFSCME Local Union No. 2195 HHVS labor contract
• Public hearing on off-sale intoxicating liquor license
• Update to personnel rules and policies
• Deny Shon Jensen reclassification request
• Approve law enforcement services agreement with Pillager School

The Board of Commissioners approved the regular agenda and a comprehensive consent agenda. Decisions included several liquor license renewals, gambling permits, and zoning reclassifications.

• Approved amended regular agenda (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda (4-0)
• Approved gambling permit for Crooked Lake Fire Relief Association (4-0)
• Approved various liquor license renewals
• Approved zoning reclassifications for Homebrook, May, Shingobee, and Deerfield townships
• Approved agreement for law enforcement services with Pillager School
• Approved memorandum of understanding for TH 210 and CSAH 1 Roundabout project
• Approved Land Department building cleaning contract

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting to discuss the County's Strike Plan. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, June 15, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the Commissioner's Room at 303 Minnesota Ave W. Walker, MN.

• Discussion of County Strike Plan
• Special meeting to address strike plan
• Meeting location: Commissioner's Room, 303 Minnesota Ave W. Walker, MN
• Time: 1:00 PM on Monday, June 15, 2026
• Contact: (218) 547-7204 for agenda changes

The Board approved and imposed a new three-year contract for Courthouse Unit employees represented by AFSCME Local No. 2195. The agreement includes a 3% cost-of-living adjustment, 3% step increases, and the implementation of longevity pay starting at five years of service. The contract becomes effective June 16, 2026, at 12:01 a.m.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved, implemented, and imposed AFSCME Local No. 2195 contract (unanimous)

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass County Soil and Water Conservation District board will hold its regular monthly meeting to approve routine consent items including minutes, payment vouchers, and cost share applications. The board will also consider new items such as a drone policy and purchase of a DJI Mini 4 Pro, an application for managing invasives for a resilient landscape up to $30,000, and a stormwater retrofit construction services contract for Woodrow Township. Reports from NRCS, BWSR, and Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe will be received.

• Approval of consent agenda including minutes from May 13, 2026, and payment vouchers for conservation contracts and forest stewardship plans
• Consideration of drone and SUAS policy and purchase of DJI Mini 4 Pro RC-N2 for $30,000
• Approval of application for managing invasives for a resilient landscape up to $30,000
• Approval of Woodrow Twp stormwater retrofit construction services with Karvakko from LLR WBIF Phase 3 funding
• Approval of multiple cost share applications: shoreline stabilization, tree/shrub establishment, cover crops, hay planting, and livestock pipelines from various WBIF funds

The Board approved a new Drone and sUAS policy along with a DJI Mini 4 Pro purchase. Additionally, the board voted to temporarily suspend acceptance of new cost share applications for Forest Stewardship Plan writing.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda including May 13 minutes and various payment vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's Report, Bills Paid, and Checking Statement (unanimous)
• Approved Drone and sUAS policy (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of DJI Mini 4 Pro RC-N2 drone (unanimous)
• Approved Managing Invasives for a Resilient Landscape application up to $30,000 (unanimous)
• Approved Woodrow Twp Stormwater Retrofit Construction Services with Karvakko (unanimous)
• Approved MASWCD Leadership Institute registration via Sourcewell Grant (unanimous)

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission will hold a public meeting for a feedlot expansion by Ice Wings LLP, review a preliminary plat for a storage facility, consider several land reclassifications and variances, and discuss a second reading of ordinance amendments remanded by the county board. Also scheduled is an EIS scoping meeting for the Waterside Estates development.

• Ice Wings LLP feedlot expansion to 2,905.2 animal units (public meeting for MPCA permit)
• Trails and Lakes Storage preliminary plat for 29 storage lots on 13.3 acres in Birch Lake Township
• Second reading of land use ordinance amendments remanded by county board for further revisions
• EIS scoping meeting for Waterside Estates development in Fairview Township
• Conditional use permit for Strictly Mushrooms LLC to operate a farmers market in Pine River Township

The Planning Commission recommended approval for four property reclassifications to various rural residential designations. One request to reclassify 20 acres in Homebrook Township was recommended for denial.

• Recommended approval to reclassify 3.75 acres from Rural Residential 2.5 to Rural Residential 1 for Edward Pinski (7-0)
• Recommended approval to reclassify 2 acres from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 1 for David & Janis Schmid (7-0)
• Recommended approval to reclassify 10 acres from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 10 for Travis Vanvickle (7-0)
• Recommended approval to reclassify 40.03 acres from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 20 for Kevin Vargo (7-0)
• Recommended denial to reclassify 20 acres from Rural Residential 10 to Rural Residential 2.5 for Shon Jensen (3-4)
• Approved May 11, 2026 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved June 8, 2026 meeting agenda (7-0)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board will hold a public hearing on the Capital Improvement Plan and consider establishing a public hearing to revocate County Road 124, County Road 183, and a portion of CSAH 72 to Turtle Lake Township. Commissioners also will review reports from the Sheriff’s Office, Longville Area Subordinate Service District, and highway department. The consent agenda includes numerous approvals such as opioid settlement fund activity, a letter of support for the Leech Lake Reservation Restoration Act, and various personnel and contract items.

• Public hearing on Capital Improvement Plan
• Establish public hearing to revocate CR 124, CR 183, and portion of CSAH 72 to Turtle Lake Township
• Approve HVAC control and maintenance services through Sourcewell Gordian program
• Report from Opioid Settlement Committee of the Board
• Approve letter of support for S.622 – Leech Lake Reservation Restoration Act of 2020

The Cass County Board adopted a resolution to approve an LG220 gambling permit for the Outing Gun Club and another resolution certifying the Highway Right‑of‑Way Plat No. 8 for County Road 107. It also approved a slate of liquor license renewals and new licenses, accepted grant funding, and awarded multiple service contracts. All actions were taken with recorded vote totals where applicable.

• Adopted Resolution 30-26 approving LG220 gambling permit for Outing Gun Club (4‑0 vote)
• Adopted Resolution 29-26 certifying Highway Right‑of‑Way Plat No. 8 for CR 107 (4‑0 vote)
• Approved multiple liquor license renewals and new licenses; pending approvals for Chelsea’s Bar and Horseshoe Bay Lodge
• Approved 2026 Boat and Water Safety Grant contract for $78,921
• Approved opioid settlement fund disbursements: $1,498.86 to Cass County Jail MOUD and $710.37 to Northwoods Church – Celebrate Recovery
• Approved 60‑month color copier lease agreement with MARCO
• Awarded trail‑mowing contract to Gilbert Contracting Services for several trails totaling $9,753
• Received and filed zoning reclassification applications for parcels in Shingobee, Homebrook, Deerfield, and May Townships; remanded to Planning Commission

County Commissioners

The board will hold a public hearing and consider a joint powers agreement for revoking roads within May Township. Other notable items include grant applications for intersection and bridge projects, mower purchases, and a request for personal leave due to political activity. A large consent agenda covers routine approvals, licenses, and personnel items.

• Public hearing for revocation of roads within May Township
• Approve joint powers agreement for revocation of roads within May Township
• LPP grant application for TH 64 & CSAH 34 intersection
• CSAH 1 Bridge Replacement Funding
• Approve cannabis and lower-potency hemp edible retail registration

The commissioners unanimously approved the regular meeting agenda and the consent agenda. They adopted a resolution approving an off‑site gambling license for the Crooked Lake Relief Association. The board also unanimously designated elected officials as employees for public‑data purposes under the MGDPA and adopted Resolution 27‑26 to revoke County Roads 102 and 104, transferring them to May Township.

• Approved regular agenda amendment (unanimous; ayes: Gaalswyk, Haaland, Kangas, Bruns)
• Waived reading and approved consent agenda (unanimous; ayes: Haaland, Gaalswyk, Kangas, Bruns)
• Approved gambling license for LG230 application (ayes: Gaalswyk, Haaland, Kangas, Bruns; nays: none)
• Designated elected officials as employees for public‑data purposes under MGDPA (unanimous; ayes: Gaalswyk, Haaland, Kangas, Bruns)
• Adopted Resolution 27‑26 revoking County Roads 102 and 104 to May Township (ayes: Gaalswyk, Haaland, Kangas, Bruns; nays: none)
• Approved ARPA grant activity for Itasca County Sheriff’s Office and jail health services (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 opioid settlement fund allocations for county jail MOUD services (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of laptops, signs, blinds, and other equipment for Auditor‑Treasurer Recorder Department (unanimous)

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District will hold its regular monthly meeting, considering consent agenda items including payment vouchers for the Leech Lake River Watershed-Based Implementation Funding (WBIF) Phase 3 and Conservation Contracts. Major discussion items include approval of a partnership with the Wabeds Little Boy Cooper Rice Lakes Association for $570 in district share for 40 watercraft inspector hours, approval of the lowest qualified bidder for the Poquet Lake outlet culvert design, and authorization of a grant agreement for Leech Lake River WBIF Phase 4. The board will also receive the 2025 audit letter and consider renewing the MN Soil Health Coalition membership.

• Approve lowest qualified bidder for Poquet Lake outlet culvert design
• Approve $570 district share with Wabeds Little Boy Cooper Rice Lakes Association for 40 supplemental watercraft inspector hours
• Authorize grant agreement for Leech Lake River WBIF Phase 4 (C26-0162)
• Approve payment vouchers for Leech Lake River WBIF Phase 3 (CS542-25, CS548-26) and Conservation Contracts (CS549-26)
• Receive and file 2025 audit letter from Peterson LTD

The Cass Soil & Water Conservation District board approved a series of contracts, funding allocations, and grant agreements, all by unanimous vote. Items included a professional services agreement with North Water Ecology, partnership funds for a local rice association, and several cost‑share and infrastructure approvals. The board also adopted the Treasurer’s financial report and renewed membership in the MN Soil Health Coalition.

• Approved Professional Services Agreement with North Water Ecology for Bowen and Leech Lake delineations (unanimous)
• Approved 50% partnership funds of $570 for Wabedo Little Boy Cooper Rice Lakes Association (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's Report, bills paid and savings statement (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of MN Soil Health Coalition membership for $25 (unanimous)
• Approved lowest qualified survey quote from Bonnema Runke Stern Inc. for RIM Refresh easement program (unanimous)
• Approved lowest qualified bidder for Poquet Lake Outlet culvert design, TSA 8 funds to pay IMEG (unanimous)
• Approved amendment A2026-15 increasing authorized amount to $13,676.55 for Upper Mississippi Grand Rapids WBIF (unanimous)
• Approved receipt and filing of cancelled contract CS536-25 from UMGR WBIF Phase 1 (unanimous)

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Cass County Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a feedlot expansion for PFG Partners LLP adding 908.4 animal units, and adopt a final scoping document for an Environmental Impact Statement for the Waterside Estates development. The commission will also decide on 10 variance requests for lakeshore properties and consider a variance extension.

• Feedlot expansion hearing for PFG Partners LLP: new 364'x102' barn for 2,100 swine (908.4 animal units) in Byron Township
• EIS scoping meeting for Waterside Estates development (US-Barefoot Bay LLC) on Gull Lake in Fairview Township
• Variance request by Paul and Susan Albers to expand boathouse on Washburn Lake (Crooked Lake Township)
• Variance request by Kurt and Jennifer Martinson to replace home on Gull Lake with 54'6" into bluff (Fairview Township)
• Variance request by Alan and Terri Nystrom for property split without 33-ft right-of-way access (Rogers Township)

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the April 13 meeting and the agenda for May 11. It then approved a variance to expand a boathouse at 5657 Fehrs Drive NE and a variance for residential additions at 937 Wabedo Pass Road NE, each by a 7‑0 vote.

• Approved April 13 minutes (7-0)
• Approved May 11 agenda (7-0)
• Approved boathouse expansion variance at 5657 Fehrs Drive NE (7-0)
• Approved residential addition variance at 937 Wabedo Pass Road NE (7-0)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board will hold public hearings on an off-sale intoxicating liquor license and the second reading of the Cass County Land Use Ordinance. The board will also discuss pending litigation and labor negotiation strategy in closed executive sessions. The consent agenda includes approval of licenses, cannabis registration, opioid settlement funds, and Chippewa National Forest funds, as well as various contracts and personnel items.

• Public hearing on off-sale intoxicating liquor license
• Public hearing on second reading of Cass County Land Use Ordinance
• Approve cannabis and lower-potency hemp edible retail registration
• Approve opioid settlement funds activity
• Approve distribution of Chippewa National Forest funds

The Cass County Board approved a gambling license for the Bemidji Lady Ducks and an off‑sale liquor license for Credence Holdings Corp. dba Godfrey’s. It also approved multiple financial items, including a $289,789.85 Chippewa National Forest Fund payment, $24,963.96 opioid settlement funds, a $2,000 grant application for the Probation Department, and $245,454.50 library funding. The Board appointed Loren Brownell as the new County Surveyor.

• Approved LG220 gambling license for Bemidji Lady Ducks (unanimous, Ayes: Gaalswyk, Haaland, Kangas, Bruns)
• Approved Off‑Sale Intoxicating Liquor License for Credence Holdings Corp. dba Godfrey’s (unanimous, Ayes: Gaalswyk, Haaland, Kangas, Bruns)
• Approved $289,789.85 Chippewa National Forest Fund distribution (unanimous)
• Approved $24,963.96 opioid settlement funds to Burlington Recovery Homes (unanimous)
• Authorized Probation Department to apply for $2,000 Sourcewell Boost Fund (unanimous)
• Authorized $245,454.50 budget support for Kitchigami Regional Library (unanimous)
• Approved $4,383.50 Pro‑West & Associates software maintenance contract (unanimous)
• Received and filed appointment of Loren Brownell as County Surveyor

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will receive annual reports from the Land Department and Probation. The body is deciding on several highway department contracts and a variety of consent agenda items including liquor licenses and grant activities.

• Final payment on Highway Contract 26161 and awards for Contracts 64504 and 61105
• Contract with Plunkett's Pest Control for bat exclusion at Deep Portage
• Establishment of a public hearing for an off-sale intoxicating liquor license
• Approval of cannabis and lower-potency hemp edible retail registrations
• Referral of Economic Development budget request to the Citizens Budget Committee

The Cass County Board adopted Resolution 21‑26 to approve an exempt gambling permit for Lakes Area Shooting Sports, with a unanimous 4‑0 vote. The Board also approved several licensing applications, zoning reclassifications, and contract awards, and authorized grant submissions and ACH payments.

• Approved LG220 gambling permit for Lakes Area Shooting Sports (4-0)
• Approved new liquor license for Hiawatha Beach Resort (4-0)
• Approved 3.2% beer renewal for Big Rock Resort CCIC (4-0)
• Approved zoning reclassification for Jason Smith parcel to Rural Residential 1 (4-0)
• Denied zoning reclassification for Roger Sirucek parcels to Rural Residential 10 (4-0)
• Approved contract with Plunkett’s pest control for $18,575 bat exclusion project (4-0)
• Approved award of fence removal projects up to $2,300 in Pine River Township (4-0)
• Authorized submission of Victim Services grant application to MN Dept of Public Safety (4-0)

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Cass County Planning Commission will meet to consider applications for land reclassification and variances, including a request to reclassify 7.5 acres for commercial use and several variance requests for structures near lakes and streams. The meeting will also include a public hearing on an Environmental Impact Statement for a proposed development.

• Reclassify 7.5 acres from Shoreland Residential to Sylvan Commercial (2485 Wilderness Drive SW)
• Reclassify 79.49 acres from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 10 (7571 62nd Street SW)
• Variance for 870 sq ft residential structure near Norway Brook (2647 State 371 SW)
• Variance for 1,738 sq ft residential structure near Portage Lake (5776 Teaberry Trail NW)
• Environmental Impact Statement Scoping Meeting for Waterside Estates Development

The Planning Commission approved the March 9 minutes and the April 13 agenda unanimously. It voted 6‑1 to recommend approval of a 7.5‑acre reclassification from Shoreland Residential to Sylvan Commercial. It also voted unanimously to recommend denial of a 79.49‑acre Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential reclassification, to recommend approval of a 2.57‑acre Rural Residential 5 to Rural Residential 1 reclassification, and to deny an after‑the‑fact variance for an 870‑sq‑ft structure.

• Approve March 9, 2026 minutes (7‑0)
• Approve April 13, 2026 agenda (7‑0)
• Recommend approval of 7.5‑acre reclassification (Shoreland Residential → Sylvan Commercial) (6‑1)
• Recommend denial of 79.49‑acre reclassification (Agricultural Forestry → Rural Residential 10) (7‑0)
• Recommend approval of 2.57‑acre reclassification (Rural Residential 5 → Rural Residential 1) (7‑0)
• Deny variance for 870‑sq‑ft residential structure at 2647 State 371 SW (7‑0)

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass County Soil and Water Conservation District board will vote on several consent‑agenda items, including reimbursement vouchers for MN DNR forest stewardship plans and a contract with Aquatic Plant Management LLC to conduct diver‑assisted suction harvesting of starry stonewort on Rowen and other lakes. Additional decisions cover a funding request from the Roosevelt and Lawrence Area Lakes Association and renewal of a short‑term CD. The meeting also includes routine reports, a review of cost‑share applications, and a discussion of recent statutory changes.

• Approval of Payment Voucher CS546-26 for reimbursement of the MN DNR Forest Stewardship Plan (Pine River WBIF Phase 3)
• Approval of Statements of Work with Aquatic Plant Management LLC for diver‑assisted suction harvesting of starry stonewort on Rowen and surrounding lakes
• Approval of Funding Request 26-005 from the Roosevelt and Lawrence Area Lakes Association
• Approval of renewal of a CD at Best with a 7‑month interest rate
• Approval of the KAXE annual contract at the same rates as the previous year

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District approved its 2026 Soil Health budget and workplan unanimously. Several other items were also approved, including diver‑assisted suction harvesting at Bowen and Leech Lakes, a 50% cost‑share funding request up to $5,000 for Roosevelt/Lawrence, and the KAXE annual contract. All motions passed with either unanimous votes or, in one case, an abstention that did not affect the outcome.

• Agenda approved with six additions (unanimous)
• Diver Assisted Suction Harvesting at Bowen Lake approved (unanimous)
• Diver Assisted Suction Harvesting at Leech Lake approved (O’Neill abstained; motion passes)
• Funding Request 26-005 (Roosevelt/Lawrence) approved 50% cost share up to $5,000 (unanimous)
• Soil Health 2026 Budget/Workplan approved (unanimous)
• Leech Lake River Phase 4 budget/workplan approved (unanimous)
• Resolution R24-2026 Sourcewell funding of $15,000 approved
• KAXE annual contract approved (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will consider a consent agenda, review the Mississippi River Headwaters Watershed FY26/27 workplan and budget, and approve General Fund fourth‑quarter budget amendments. It will also award maintenance striping and gravel‑surfacing contracts, and schedule public hearings on the Land Use Ordinance and the revocation of County Roads 102 and 104 to May Township.

• Establish public hearing for 2nd reading of the Land Use Ordinance
• Establish public hearing to revocate County Road 102 and County Road 104 to May Township
• Approve General Fund 4th Quarter Budget Amendments
• Award C.M. 2026-02 Cass County Maintenance Striping Bid
• Award C.M. 2026-01 Gravel Surfacing Bid

The Cass County Board of Commissioners approved a LG220 gambling permit for The Babinski Foundation's September 12, 2026 event in Homebrook Township. The board also adopted resolutions supporting Sourcewell mental‑health funding and a partnership with Hubbard County on a climate‑smart food systems grant. Additional items approved included ARPA grant payments, a credit‑card limit increase, a lease renewal with MARCO, a laptop purchase, and grading contracts with Holmvig Excavating.

• Approved LG220 gambling permit for The Babinski Foundation (ayes: Gaalswyk, Kangas, Bruns; absent: Haaland)
• Adopted Resolution 17-26 supporting Sourcewell mental‑health funding (ayes: Gaalswyk, Kangas, Bruns; absent: Haaland)
• Adopted Resolution 19-26 supporting Hubbard County climate‑smart food systems grant partnership (ayes: Gaalswyk, Kangas, Bruns; absent: Haaland)
• Approved ARPA grant payments to Itasca County Sheriff’s Office ($18,480 and $5,600) (unanimous)
• Increased county credit‑card limit to $105,000 and admin assistant limit to $10,000 (unanimous)
• Approved 60‑month lease renewal with MARCO for Environmental Services (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of a laptop for $1,824.75 for the Auditor‑Treasurer‑Recorder Department (unanimous)
• Approved grading contracts with Holmvig Excavating for multiple county trails (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve a consent agenda including personnel, warrants, and various service agreements, as well as consider contracts for road projects and speed studies.

• Award Contract 26167 for Highway Department
• Approve 2026 Unorganized Fire Contract for Federal Dam
• Approve 2026 Updated Bridge Replacement Priority List
• CSAH 11 MnDOT Agency Agreement for construction engineering
• CSAH 70, CSAH 4, and CR 168 Speed Study Results

The commissioners unanimously approved the regular agenda and the consent agenda. They adopted the 2026 Bridge Replacement Priority List and designated Auditor‑Treasurer Lisa Shadick as the Identified Official with Authority. The board also approved several contracts, purchases, and the TipCo EVA AI platform proposal.

• Approved regular agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items (unanimous)
• Adopted 2026 Bridge Replacement Priority List (4-0)
• Adopted resolution designating Auditor‑Treasurer Lisa Shadick as IOwA (4-0)
• Approved TipCo EVA AI platform proposal before Sept. 30 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved VM software support contract with SHI International for $81,177.60/yr (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of ten meeting‑room chairs for $604.98 (unanimous)
• Approved Strong Foundations professional development funds of $1,636.00 (unanimous)

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District board will approve the consent agenda, including minutes from the February 11, 2026 meeting and two cancelled soil testing contracts. It will also approve cost‑share agreements for forest stewardship plans from the Pine River, Leech Lake River, and other watershed projects. The board will review and vote on proposed land‑use ordinance amendments and several payment vouchers and contracts related to watershed and livestock initiatives.

• Approve consent agenda items: minutes from Feb 11, 2026 and cancelled contracts CS500-25 and CS501-25
• Approve cost‑share agreements for forest stewardship plans (CS544-25, CS549-26, CS550-26)
• Consider and approve proposed land‑use ordinance amendments (draft linked in agenda)
• Approve payment voucher CS545-25 for PFM from Crow Wing River WBIF Phase 1
• Approve contract with Woods and Stuff LLC for tree planting

The district approved moving $100,000 from its savings into a seven‑month certificate of deposit at the best rate. It also approved a $2,000 funding request for an ACCL Detectors course and a contract with Woods and Stuff LLC for tree planting. Additionally, the board unanimously approved numerous cost‑share applications for various watershed projects.

• Moved $100,000 from savings to a 7‑month CD (unanimous)
• Approved $2,000 funding for ACCL Detectors Course 26-004 (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Woods and Stuff LLC for tree planting (unanimous)
• Approved cost‑share amendment A2026-13 Gertjeansen (unanimous)
• Approved $2,000 payment voucher CS545-26 for PFM from Crow Wing River WBIF (unanimous)
• Approved cost‑share CS556-26 Annual Forages in Crow Wing WBIF Phase 1 (unanimous)
• Approved cost‑share CS557-26 Livestock Pipeline in Crow Wing WBIF Phase 1 (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for U of M Better Shorelines Restoration application (unanimous)

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Cass County Planning Commission will review a land‑use ordinance amendment requested by Diane and Dave Ford, with a first reading at 1:00 PM. It will also consider a reclassification of 13.81 acres at 3694 Alpine Drive SW, a preliminary plat of 29 residential lots in Birch Lake Township, several variance requests, and a conditional use permit for a 49‑unit seasonal RV park at 7058 39th Ave NW.

• Reclassify 13.81 acres from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 2.5 at 3694 Alpine Drive SW (Fairview Township).
• Preliminary plat “Trail and Lakes Storage” – 29 lots on 13.3 acres in Birch Lake Township (NE¼ of NW¼, PID 05‑007‑2104).
• Variance request by Cory Meyer for platform and grill shelter at 2653 State 371 SW (Wilson Township).
• Conditional Use Permit for a 49‑unit seasonal RV park at 7058 39th Ave NW (Turtle Lake Township).
• First reading of a land‑use ordinance amendment filed by Diane and Dave Ford.

The commission approved, by a 5‑2 vote, a variance allowing a platform, bar and grill shelter on a property adjacent to Norway Brook, while the applicant withdrew the short‑term rental request. The commission also recommended approval of a 13.81‑acre reclassification from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 2.5, and accepted the withdrawal of a preliminary plat. Procedural items such as the minutes and agenda were approved unanimously.

• Approve minutes of February 9, 2026 meeting (7‑0)
• Approve agenda for March 9, 2026 meeting (7‑0)
• Recommend approval of 13.81‑acre reclassification to Rural Residential 2.5 (7‑0)
• Accept withdrawal of the “Trail and Lakes Storage” preliminary plat (7‑0)
• Approve variance for platform, bar, and grill shelter near Norway Brook (5‑2)
• Short‑term rental request withdrawn and not approved

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board will appoint members to committees and a policy committee, and will declare a vacancy in District 3 to schedule a special election. The meeting includes a consent agenda with personnel, contract, and grant approvals.

• Declare vacancy for District 3 County Commissioner
• Appoint 2026 committee members
• Approve UKG contract renewal
• Authorize use of insurance funds to repair Hackensack Maintenance Shop
• Approve Community Crime Intervention and Prevention Grant

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will review a multi-year labor contract and a MnDOT intersection evaluation for MN 371 and CSAH 2/CSAH 42. The meeting includes reports on opioid settlement activities and the Sheriff's Office 2025 annual report.

• 2026-2028 Local #49 Operating Engineers Labor Contract
• MnDOT Intersection Control Evaluation for MN 371 & CSAH 2/CSAH 42
• Municipal lease agreement with the City of East Gull Lake
• 2026 Town Road Apportionment Payment
• 2026 Bridge Replacement Priority List

The Cass County Board unanimously approved the regular and consent agendas, adopted three gambling exempt permits, and adopted Resolution 10‑26 establishing the 2026 bridge replacement priority list. The Board also unanimously approved the Local No. 49 Operating Engineers three‑year labor contract and approved several contracts and grant activities, including an email‑archive upgrade and a SHI International software renewal.

• Approved Regular Agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Adopted gambling exempt permits for Maxon Von EPS, Ducks Unlimited, and Young at Heart Club (ayes: Haaland, Kangas, Bruns, Gaalswyk; no nays)
• Adopted Resolution 10‑26 establishing 2026 bridge replacement priority list (ayes: Haaland, Kangas, Bruns, Gaalswyk; no nays)
• Approved Local No. 49 Operating Engineers three‑year labor contract (unanimous)
• Approved contract renewal with SHI International for FTP server software ($1,478.27)
• Approved Email Archive Upgrade with Tangent Inc. ($31,320.00)
• Approved ARPA Grant activities for jail medical provider ($6,250) and mental health ($4,445.92)

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District will review funding requests for Eurasian Milfoil delineation and inspections at Lake Washburn. The board is also considering updated engineering for the Cass-Loon Lake Bridge 97497 and a stream prioritization application for the Mayo Brook Stream Crossing Project.

• Funding request for Lake Washburn Assn Eurasian Milfoil Delineation 26-002
• Funding request for Lake Washburn Inspections 26-003
• Updated engineering for Cass-Loon Lake Bridge 97497 (11423) using 2025 TSA 8 Funds
• Application to MN DNR Ecology Unit for Mayo Brook Stream Crossing Project prioritization
• Cost share approvals for Forest Stewardship Plans (CS551-26 and CS543-25)

The Cass Soil & Water Conservation District unanimously approved its agenda and consent agenda, including payment voucher CS515-25. It also approved several funding requests, notably $1,095 for Lake Washburn inspections and $11,500 for updated engineering on the Cas‑Loon Lake Bridge. Additional approvals covered forest stewardship cost‑share applications and various district dues and reports.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimously, 3‑0)
• Approved consent agenda and payment voucher CS515-25 (unanimously, 3‑0)
• Approved Lake Washburn Assn Eurasian Milfoil Delineation funding request (unanimously, 3‑0)
• Approved Lake Washburn Inspections funding request $1,095 (unanimously, 3‑0)
• Approved $11,500 fund for Updated Engineering for Cas‑Loon Lake Bridge 97497 (unanimously, 3‑0)
• Approved Treasurer's Report and bills paid (unanimously, 3‑0)
• Approved cost‑share application CS551-26 for forest stewardship plan (unanimously, 3‑0)
• Approved payment voucher CS543-25 for Forest Stewardship Plan (unanimously, 3‑0)

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Cass County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will meet to consider a final plat for 15 residential lots and a conditional use permit for a resort expansion. The body will also review two variance requests for property additions and a patio.

• Final plat for 'Woodsmoke Three' consisting of 15 residential lots on 18.9 acres in Fairview Township
• Conditional Use Permit for Quarterdeck Resort to add 13 non-riparian rental cabins
• Variance for William and Christina Steigauf for a 1,580 sq ft accessory structure addition at 6371 Little Cleo Drive NE
• Variance for Jamie Michael for a 12’ X 24’ patio at 2207 Lake Shore Drive NW
• Land Use Ordinance Working Session

The Cass County Planning Commission unanimously approved the minutes and agenda for the February 9 meeting. It then approved the Woodsmoke Three final plat, creating fifteen residential lots on 18.9 acres. The commission also approved a Conditional Use Permit to add 13 rental cabins at Quarterdeck Resort and a variance for a 1,580‑sq ft addition on a Thunder Lake property. All actions passed with a 6‑0 vote.

• Approved minutes of Jan 12, 2026 meeting (6‑0)
• Approved agenda for Feb 9, 2026 meeting (6‑0)
• Approved Woodsmoke Three final plat – 15 residential lots (6‑0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Quarterdeck Resort expansion – 13 cabins (6‑0)
• Approved variance for 1,580 sq ft addition on Thunder Lake property (6‑0)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will discuss a revolving loan fund for community property development in the City of Walker. The board will also review a tree clearing agreement with Smoky Hollow Township and a truancy intervention response for 2025-2026.

• Support for Revolving Loan Fund for community property development in the City of Walker
• Cass County / Smoky Hollow Township Tree Clearing Agreement
• 2025-2026 Truancy Intervention Collaborative Response
• Northern Pines Mental Health Center Service Agreement
• 2026 budget support for Cass County Agricultural Society and Agricultural Association

The Cass County Board of Commissioners approved the regular and consent agendas without dissent. It then adopted a gambling license for Maxon Von EPS, supported a $128,142 revolving‑loan fund for a daycare redevelopment in Walker, approved a truancy‑intervention policy, and authorized a tree‑clearing agreement for County Road 161. Additional actions included contract renewals, grant acceptances, and budget allocations, all passed unanimously.

• Approved Regular Agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda items including multiple auditor warrants, contracts and grants (unanimous)
• Approved LG220 gambling license for Maxon Von EPS American Legion Post 368 (unanimous)
• Approved $128,142 Revolving Loan Fund support for Lodge Restaurant daycare project in Walker (unanimous)
• Approved 2025‑2026 Truancy Intervention Collaborative Response (unanimous)
• Approved tree‑clearing agreement with Smoky Hollow Township for County Road 161 project (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 08‑26 authorizing Longville Area Subordinate Services District to file EMS grant (unanimous)
• Authorized $10,000 transfer for bridge replacement engineering expenses (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will consider a Letter of Understanding with Maxon Holding Company, LLC, and the suspension of in‑person services at the Cass Lake office. They will also review the Pine River Post Office flooring replacement and adopt the updated Cass County Probation Comprehensive Plan. The board will vote to approve the final payment on highway Contract 60418 and address numerous consent‑agenda items.

• Letter of Understanding with Maxon Holding Company, LLC
• Suspension of In‑Person Service at the Cass Lake office location
• Pine River Post Office flooring replacement
• Approve Updated Cass County Probation Comprehensive Plan
• Approve final payment on Contract 60418 (highway department)

The commissioners unanimously approved the regular and consent agendas. They approved numerous financial items, including an ARPA grant for jail mental health and $40,000 state affordable housing aid. The board adopted Resolution 06‑26, making Cass County the legal sponsor for DNR trail assistance programs, with three ayes and one abstention. The board took no action on the Maxon Holding wetland development request.

• Approved regular agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous, one abstention)
• Approved ARPA grant for jail mental health ($4,445.92)
• Approved $40,000 state affordable housing aid to Leach Lake Financial Services
• Adopted Resolution 06‑26 to sponsor DNR Trails Assistance Program (ayes: Haaland, Kangas, Bruns, Lilyquist; abstain: Gaalswyk)
• Approved zoning reclassification for parcel PID 24-129-1101 in May Township
• Accepted donation of $31,348.40 from Cass Soil and Water Conservation District for vehicle purchase
• Took no action on Maxon Holding Company wetland development request