Cass County public meetings in 2024
47 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
County Commissioners
The Cass County Board will consider establishing a public hearing for a special taxing district to fund the Walker Ambulance Public Service Area. They will also discuss adopting the 2025 property tax levy, budget, and fee schedule, as well as approving 2025 elected official compensation. The consent agenda includes numerous contracts, service agreements, and resolution adoptions, such as the 10-year solid waste management plan and sponsor for grant-in-aid trails.
- Establish a public hearing to consider a special taxing district for Walker Ambulance Public Service Area
- Adopt 2025 property tax levy and budget by fund
- Approve 2025 fee schedule
- Consider sponsoring agency for bike and pedestrian improvements on TH371/TH34 project seeking Transportation Alternatives funding
- Adopt resolution for the 10-year solid waste management plan
The Cass County Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted the 2025 property tax levy of $31,553,183 (a 9.98% increase) and the 2025 budget with total expenditures of $88,912,253. The board also approved resolutions establishing 2025 compensation for elected officials, including a 5% cost-of-living adjustment, and set a public hearing for January 21, 2025, to consider creating a special taxing district for the Walker Ambulance Public Service Area.
- Adopted 2025 property tax levy of $31,553,183 (Resolution 73-24, unanimous)
- Approved 2025 budget with $88,912,253 in expenditures (Resolution 74-24, unanimous)
- Set public hearing for Jan 21, 2025 on Walker Ambulance special taxing district (unanimous)
- Adopted 2025 commissioner salary of $39,227.16 and per diem of $75/day (Resolution 71-24, unanimous)
- Set 2025 salaries for County Attorney ($171,059.20) and Sheriff ($144,144.00, rising to $148,304.00 on July 1) (Resolution 72-24, unanimous)
- Approved 2025 citizen per diem: $75/day for most committees, $150/day for Planning Commission regular meetings (unanimous)
- Adopted 10-year Solid Waste Management Plan (Resolution 79-24, unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including warrants totaling over $10 million and multiple contracts (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (10 roll-call votes)
Soil and Water Conservation District
The Cass SWCD will discuss and potentially approve the 2025 draft budget, several cost-share applications for shoreline restoration along the Leech Lake River, and an invoice for the completed Longville Stormwater Project funded by Enbridge. They will also consider a credit card limit increase for staff, a donation to the Crow Wing Forage Council, and a memorandum of agreement for the Crow Wing River Comprehensive Management Plan.
- Approval of 2025 draft budget
- Approval of invoice for completed Longville Stormwater Project from Enbridge funding
- Approval of multiple shoreline restoration cost-share applications (CS475-24 through CS482-24) from Leech Lake River WBIF phases
- Consideration of credit card limit increase to $3,000 for staff Dana Gutzmann
- Approval of $500 donation to Crow Wing Forage Council for winter meeting
The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District approved its 2025 draft budget and 2025 AIS budget, along with a contract for vegetative establishment at the Longville Stormwater Basin and an invoice for the completed Longville Stormwater Project. The board also approved the 2025 meeting schedule, a $400 donation to the Crow Wing Forage Council, a memorandum of agreement for the Crow Wing River plan, a credit card limit increase, and multiple cost-share applications for shoreline restoration and well decommissioning. All motions passed unanimously.
- Approved 2025 Draft Budget (unanimous)
- Approved 2025 AIS Budget (unanimous)
- Approved $2,250 contract for vegetative establishment at Longville Stormwater Basin (unanimous)
- Approved invoice for completed Longville Stormwater Project (unanimous)
- Approved 2025 meeting schedule (unanimous)
- Approved $400 donation to Crow Wing Forage Council (unanimous)
- Approved Memorandum of Agreement for Crow Wing River Comprehensive Management Plan (unanimous)
- Approved 9 shoreline restoration cost share applications and 2 well decommissioning payments (unanimous)
Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment
The Cass County Planning Commission will review a preliminary plat for the 39.9-acre Walker Woods subdivision in Shingobee Township, a reclassification request for 5.35 acres near River Glen Lane in Sylvan Township, and four lakefront variance applications for properties on Ten Mile, Woman, Pleasant, and Little Boy Lakes. The meeting will also include a continuation of the short-term rental ordinance process.
- Walker Woods preliminary plat: 21 residential lots on 39.9 acres in Shingobee Township, zoned Rural Residential 1
- Reclassification: 5.35 acres from Rural Residential 2.5 to Sylvan Commercial near 2523 River Glen Lane SW in Sylvan Township
- Variance for Greg Harwood: 4-foot overhangs, dormers, and 12’x22’ patio at 50-foot setback from Ten Mile Lake (GD) on Currant Trail NW
- Variance for Jeff Walter: Increase Acorn Hill Resort mooring slips from 38 to 73 on 4691 Acorn Hill Lane NW in Turtle Lake Township
- Short-Term Rental Ordinance: Planning Commission to revisit revisions after County Board remand
The Cass County Planning Commission approved the Walker Woods preliminary plat for 21 residential lots in Shingobee Township, approved a variance for Greg Harwood near Ten Mile Lake, recommended approval of a reclassification for Jason Lind, approved a variance for Thomas Koch near Pleasant Lake, and approved a conditional use permit for Acorn Hill Resort to increase mooring slips. The commission also tabled a variance request for Julie Hofstedt at her request and discussed the short-term rental ordinance without proposing changes.
- Approved Walker Woods preliminary plat, 21 lots (7-0)
- Approved variance for Greg Harwood, 50-ft setback from Ten Mile Lake (7-0)
- Recommended approval of reclassification for Jason Lind to Sylvan Commercial (7-0)
- Tabled variance for Julie Hofstedt at applicant's request (7-0)
- Approved variance for Thomas Koch, 53.6-ft setback from Pleasant Lake (4-3)
- Approved CUP for Acorn Hill Resort, 56 overnight slips + 6 transient (7-0)
- Approved draft short-term rental ordinance, referred to County Board
County Commissioners
The Cass County Board will hold a Truth-in-Taxation public hearing at 6:00 PM to discuss the 2025 budget, levy, and fee schedule. They will also consider supporting the EDC Ah Gwah Ching Housing Project and acting on a stop work order request. Several consent agenda items include approvals of settlement agreements, grants, and watershed management plans.
- Truth-in-Taxation public hearing for 2025 budget and levy
- Support for EDC Ah Gwah Ching Housing Project
- Anderson remove stop work order request
- Approve 2025 tax forfeit land sale
- Approve settlement agreement with the Wesenbergs
The Cass County Board approved moving tax-forfeit land sales to an online platform (Public Surplus) and set the 2025 sale for February 14 through March 16. They also approved the 2025-2029 Community Health Improvement Plan, supported the EDC's Ah Gwah Ching housing project, and remanded a stop work order dispute to the Planning Commission. The board scheduled adoption of the 2025 budget and levy for December 17, 2024.
- Approved online tax-forfeit land sale via PublicSurplus (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 68-24 establishing 2025 tax forfeit land sale (unanimous)
- Approved 2025-2029 Community Health Improvement Plan (unanimous)
- Supported EDC Ah Gwah Ching housing project (unanimous)
- Remanded Anderson stop work order request to Planning Commission (unanimous)
- Approved temporary special use permit for CSAH 53 bridge (unanimous)
- Adopted three watershed management plans (Resolutions 65-24, 66-24, 67-24) (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including warrants totaling $2,090,557.63 (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (17 roll-call votes)
County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will review a Joint Powers Agreement for trail maintenance and receive reports on watershed management and the Longville Area Subordinate Service District. The meeting includes a large consent agenda covering personnel items, contract renewals, and land sales.
- Joint Powers Agreement with City of Lake Shore for trail maintenance
- Direct land sales to the City of Cass Lake and the City of Hackensack
- 2025 Medical Examiner contract agreement
- Transfer Station Management Contract Amendment No. 7 and Recycling Bin Management Contract Amendment No. 4
- Public hearing scheduled for Dec 5 regarding 2025 Fee Schedule, Budget, and Property Tax Levy
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment
The Cass County Planning Commission will meet on November 12, 2024, to consider two reclassification requests and six variance applications. The reclassification items seek to change zoning on parcels in Fairview and Blind Lake Townships, while variances involve new construction, expansions, and an accessory dwelling unit near various lakes. Field inspections for most applications were conducted on November 4.
- Reclassification of 2.5 acres from Agricultural Forested to Rural Residential 2.5 at 11076 County Hwy 1, Fairview Township (Hill)
- Reclassification of 31.3 acres from Agricultural Forested to Rural Residential 10 at 767 12th Street NE, Blind Lake Township (Krecklau)
- Variance to build a 1,792 sq ft home 29 feet from Little Boy Lake (Heinmiller)
- Variance to replace a home 5 feet from Roosevelt Lake (Narr)
- Variance for an accessory dwelling unit on a 28,223 sq ft lot on Cass Lake (Rew)
Soil and Water Conservation District
The Cass County Soil and Water Conservation District will consider adopting three comprehensive watershed management plans for the Upper Mississippi Grand Rapids, Crow Wing River, and Mississippi River Brainerd areas. The board will also vote on cost-share applications including a $50,000 partial payment for the Pine River streambank erosion project and an amendment increasing a cost-share amount to $17,752.02. Other business includes approval of payment vouchers for shoreland restoration and agricultural BMPs, and membership in the NACD for 2025.
- Consideration of resolutions to adopt the Upper Mississippi Grand Rapids, Crow Wing River, and Mississippi River Brainerd comprehensive watershed management plans
- Approval of $50,000 partial payment to MN Landscaping and Habitat for the South Bank of the Pine River streambank erosion project (CS420-23); total approved cost share is $104,175
- Approval of amendment A2024-06 increasing the approved payment amount to $17,752.02 due to cost increases
- Approval of payment vouchers: CS437-24 for completed shoreland restoration on Bass Lake ($1,966.39 state + $3,951.61 local), and CS451-24 for completed agricultural BMPs ($3,475.61 state + $6,677 state + $2,347.39 local)
- Approval of payment voucher CS446-24 for a brine maker for the Cass County Highway Department
County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing for the second reading of Short Term Rental Ordinance 2024-04. The meeting includes reviews of budget committee reports and various personnel and contract approvals.
- Public hearing for 2nd reading of Short Term Rental Ordinance 2024-04
- Contract approval for Stockman Trucking LLC for hauling MSW, recyclables, and tires
- Bridge replacement on the Aspen Snowmobile Trail in Ponto Lake Township
- Law enforcement services agreements with Remer School and Cass Lake Bena School
- Notice to solid waste haulers of an anticipated 2025 tip fee increase
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
County Commissioners
The Cass County Board will discuss the 2023 audited financial statement, approve a road maintenance MOU with Crow Wing County, and consider a detour agreement for MnDOT TH 371. The board is also set to approve a MOU with the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe (LLBO) on an IIJA grant opportunity and will go into closed session for department head annual evaluations.
- 2023 audited financial statement recap
- Approve MOU with Crow Wing County for road maintenance
- Approve MnDOT TH 371 detour agreement (No. 1057643)
- Approve MOU with LLBO on IIJA grant opportunity
- Approve Deep Portage window replacement materials and sheriff's office generator fuel tank replacement
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment
The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will review several land use applications, including final plats and zoning reclassifications. The body will evaluate an Environmental Assessment Worksheet and Conditional Use Permit for a new golf course. Additionally, the commission will continue the first reading of a Short-Term Rental Ordinance.
- Proposed 270-acre golf course in Homebrook Township including 40,800 cubic yards of material movement
- RJ ESTATES final plat for 32 residential lots on 88.3 acres in Loon Lake Township
- Woodsmoke Two final plat for 3 residential lots and 1 outlot in Fairview Township
- Reclassification of 10.11 acres from Rural Residential 10 to 5 at 3641 16th Street SW
- Continuation of first reading for the Short-Term Rental Ordinance
Soil and Water Conservation District
The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District will consider several action items, including issuing a Request for Proposals for AIS inspection staffing covering 2025–2027 with termination clauses. The board also votes on a subagreement with Crow Wing SWCD for Pine and Leech Watersheds easements, approval of cost-share payment vouchers for a completed shoreline project on Sanborn Lake ($1,420 and $2,121.79), and acceptance of the City of Longville's delegation of Wetland Conservation Act administration. Consent agenda items include approval of September meeting minutes, financial statements, and bills paid.
- For approval: AIS Program to issue a Request for Proposals for inspection staffing for 2025–2027 with termination clauses for vendor non-performance or state funding loss.
- For approval: subagreement with Crow Wing SWCD for Pine and Leech Watersheds easements program.
- For approval: Amendment A2024-5 for funding change shifting $1,420 to State Cost Share 2023 and $4,196.68 to Conservation Contracts 2025.
- Approve payment voucher CS432-24 for completed shoreline project on Sanborn Lake: $1,420 from State Cost Share 2023 and $2,121.79 from Conservation Contracts 2025.
- Acceptance of City of Longville delegation of Wetland Conservation Act administration to Cass SWCD and delegation to staff.
County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will consider adopting the 2024 Long-Range Transportation Plan and authorizing a traffic investigation study. The meeting also includes decisions on professional service contracts and a report on the 2024 jail inspection.
- Adoption of the Cass County Long-Range 2024 Transportation Plan
- Professional Services Agreement with LEAST Services/Counseling, LLC
- SafeAssure contract for OSHA compliance consulting
- Updated 2024 Bridge Replacement Priority List
- Budget support for Kitchigami Regional Library for the second half of 2024
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the appointment of a Facilities Capital Project Manager and review reports from the Opioid Settlement Committee. The body is deciding on several contracts, including a design contract for the TH 371/200 Shingobee Connection Trail Underpass.
- Design contract for TH 371/200 Shingobee Connection Trail Underpass
- Changing MCIT insurance deductibles for 2025
- Solid waste fee waiver assistance to the City of Federal Dam for parcel 868-337-0530 cleanup
- MnDOT Agreement 1057056
- Awarding forest road maintenance contracts
The board unanimously approved raising MCIT insurance deductibles for property, inland marine, and automobile coverage, effective January 1, 2025, saving $69,623 in annual premiums. It also approved opioid settlement grants to two local organizations, a design contract for a trail underpass, and a MnDOT grant agreement for roundabout studies. All decisions were unanimous with one commissioner absent.
- Approved MCIT insurance deductible increases (unanimous)
- Approved $22,000 opioid settlement grant to Federal Dam Volunteer Fire Department (unanimous)
- Approved $5,000 opioid settlement grant to Cass Lake-Bena High School (unanimous)
- Approved design contract with IMEG for TH 371/200 Shingobee Connection Trail Underpass (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 56-24 approving MnDOT Agreement 1057056 for $30,000 IIJA grant (unanimous)
- Approved 2025-2027 Memorandum of Agreement with University of Minnesota Extension (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including warrants totaling over $2.2 million (unanimous)
- Established committee to appoint Facilities Capital Project Manager (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (10 roll-call votes)
Soil and Water Conservation District
The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District is meeting to approve payment vouchers for shoreline and forest projects and review cost share applications. The board will also consider accepting the delegation of Wetland Conservation Act administration from the cities of Remer and Hackensack.
- Acceptance of Wetland Conservation Act administration from City of Remer
- Acceptance of Wetland Conservation Act administration from City of Hackensack
- Payment vouchers for CS428-23, CS450-24 (Forest Stewardship Plan), and CS466-24 (Shoreline Project)
- Cost share application CS468-24 for temporary fencing in Bungo Township
- Approval of AIS membership to the Leech Lake Chamber of Commerce
The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District board approved the 2023 draft audit, a sign-off letter for Peterson Ltd., and acceptance of the City of Hackensack's delegation of Wetland Conservation Act administration. They also approved cost-share applications, an AIS membership, and a knotweed grant application. The board received a positive PRAP report with no required actions.
- Approved 2023 draft audit
- Approved sign-off letter for Peterson Ltd.
- Approved Hackensack WCA delegation
- Approved invasive knotweed grant application
- Approved cost-share CS468-24 (temporary fencing)
- Approved cost-share A2024-04
- Approved AIS membership to Leech Lake Chamber of Commerce
Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment
The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will review several land-use applications, including a new event center and resort expansion. The body will also conduct the first reading of a proposed ordinance regulating short-term rentals.
- First reading of the Short-Term Rental Ordinance
- Conditional Use Permit for an event center with 3 cabins, 4 RV sites, 1 pavilion, and 1 lodge in Wilson Township
- Conditional Use Permit for Quarterdeck Beach Club LLC to add 3 cabins at 9820 Birch Bay Drive SW
- Preliminary plat for 'Woodsmoke Two' consisting of three residential lots and one outlot
- Reclassification of 5.71 acres in Sylvan Township from Sylvan Commercial to Shoreland and Rural Residential
County Commissioners
The Cass County Board will hear the Citizen Budget Committee's recommendations for the 2025 preliminary levy and consider re-appointing Mark Peterson as county assessor. Other discussion items include an updated abatement policy, a Mississippi Headwaters Board update, and a primary election summary. A consent agenda covers routine approvals such as personnel items, licenses, and grants.
- Citizen Budget Committee recommendations for the 2025 preliminary levy
- Re-appointment of Mark Peterson as Cass County Assessor
- Approve updated abatement policy
- Approve updated 2024 bridge priority replacement list
- Approve emergency ambulance service aid application
The Cass County Board adopted a preliminary 2025 property tax levy of $31,553,183, a 9.98% increase over the 2024 final levy, following the Citizen Budget Committee's recommendation. The board also approved the consent agenda, re-appointed Mark Peterson as County Assessor, updated the tax abatement policy, and approved a final payment for a guardrail replacement contract.
- Adopted preliminary 2025 levy of $31,553,183 (9.98% increase) (unanimous)
- Adopted unorganized township levy of $249,000 (unanimous)
- Re-appointed Mark Peterson as County Assessor for 2025-2028 (unanimous)
- Approved updated Tax Abatement Policy (unanimous)
- Approved final payment of $296,100.50 to H&R Construction for guardrail contract (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including warrants totaling $4,933,949.89
- Adopted Resolution 54-24 updating Bridge Replacement Priority List (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will consider several highway department contracts and joint powers agreements. The meeting includes reports from the Solid Waste Committee, Environmental Services, and the Longville Area Subordinate Service District.
- CSAH 203 Joint Powers Agreement with the City of Backus
- Construction Contract 80303 and CSAH 18 Right Turn Lane award
- CSAH 77 Professional IIJA Grant Writing Services Contract
- Demolition of Aspen Snowmobile Trail Bridge in Ponto Lake Township
- Early Childhood Collaborative Agreements with Walker Hackensack Akeley and Pine River-Backus School Districts
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment
The Cass County Planning Commission will consider a preliminary plat for RJ Estates, a 32-lot residential subdivision on 88.3 acres in Loon Lake Township. The board will also hear three reclassification requests, multiple variance applications for lake-shore setbacks, and two conditional use permits, including a resort expansion and a home ammunition manufacturing business.
- Preliminary plat 'RJ ESTATES' — 32 residential lots on 88.3 acres near 7102 16th Avenue SW
- Reclassification of 244.11 acres from Agricultural Forested to Rural Residential 20 near 1294 32nd Avenue SW
- Conditional use permit for Cass Lake Lodge to add 4 hotel rooms above new main lodge at 16293 60th Avenue NW
- Variance for new 3,376 sq ft home within toe of bluff on Man Lake (RD) at 4713 Buxton Road NW
- Conditional use permit for home business involving ammunition manufacture and gun sales at 8387 Cedar Crest Loop NW
County Commissioners
The board will hold a public hearing on the Madison Land Exchange in Bungo Township and hear a DNR request to use Reinvest in Minnesota funds for conservation land purchase. They will also consider denying a contract amendment for McAllister Trucking, approving a cost share agreement with Hubbard County for County Road 83, and awarding multiple contracts. Consent agenda includes routine approvals of minutes, warrants, personnel items, licenses, and various grants and agreements.
- Public hearing for Madison Land Exchange in Bungo Township
- DNR request to use Reinvest in Minnesota funding for conservation land purchase
- Deny McAllister Trucking MSW and Recycling Contract Amendment #3
- Approve County Road 83 cost share agreement with Hubbard County
- Award contract 22083 and contract 23116
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Soil and Water Conservation District
The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District will hold its regular monthly meeting. The board will consider a consent agenda including approval of minutes, bank statements, bills paid, and several payment vouchers for conservation projects (prescribed fire management and shoreline restoration). Also up for discussion: a proposal to authorize the Conservation Manager to approve cost share applications for cover crops and grazing systems with a maximum district share of $2,000, a request to change the September meeting date, and updates on aquatic invasive species and watershed planning comment periods.
- Approval of payment voucher CS462-24 for 188-acre PFM (prescribed fire management) project
- Approval of payment voucher CS463-24 for 163-acre PFM project
- Approval of payment vouchers for shoreline restoration projects CS421-23 and CS429-22
- Proposed authorization for Conservation Manager to approve cost share applications up to $2,000 for cover crops, annual forages, pasture/hay planting, and tillage management practices
- Payment of Red Rock invoice for Federal Dam stormwater projects using Enbridge funding
County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will consider establishing a committee to coordinate ambulance services with Hubbard County. They will also review a grant application for the final phase of the Gull Lake Trail and discuss county gravel pit management.
- Greater MN Legacy Grant application for Gull Lake Trail final phase
- Establishment of a committee for ambulance services with Hubbard County
- 2024 Forest Certification Budget
- Statewide Affordable Housing Applications for Lakes Area Habitat for Humanity and Leech Lake Financial Services
- Turnaround easement with DPAX Holding, Inc. at Otter Tail Point Drive NW
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
Soil and Water Conservation District
The board will consider adopting the 2024 Strategic Plan and approving various payment vouchers for township conservation projects. Members will also vote on administrative items, including designating an official bank and newspaper. Additionally, the meeting includes reviews of state grant funding amendments and stormwater control applications.
- Adoption of the Cass SWCD Strategic Plan 2024
- Payment vouchers for PFM in Becker, Barclay, and Smoky Hollow townships
- Review of 198-acre PFM projects in Crooked Lake and Bungo townships
- Designation of First National Bank North as official depository
- Approval of Pine Cone Press as the official newspaper
Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment
The Cass County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will consider several land use applications. The agenda includes requests to reclassify properties in Fairview, Walden, and Homebrook townships. The board will also review multiple variance requests regarding setbacks and structures near local lakes.
- Reclassification of 7.15 acres in Fairview Township to Rural Residential 2.5
- Reclassification of 39.73 acres in Walden Township to Rural Residential 10
- Variance for a new 1,920 square foot home near Lake Leavitt
- Conditional use permit to add a bar and grill at Acorn Hill Resort
- Request to extend a variance expiration date in Birch Lake Township
County Commissioners
The Cass County Board of Commissioners will hold a second reading for an interim ordinance regarding digital and electronic signs. The meeting also includes a request from the Sheriff's Office for an emergency declaration and updates on primary elections. Additionally, the board will consider various administrative approvals and contract awards.
- Second reading of Cass County Interim Ordinance Digital And Electronic Signs 2024-03
- Resolution for an emergency declaration from the Sheriff's Office
- Approval of the Cass County Museum ADA Improvement Project
- Support for the Shingobee Township Trail Grant Application
- Memorandum of Understanding with Itasca County Sheriff's Office
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
County Commissioners
The Board will review a report from the Opioid Settlement Committee and consider statewide affordable housing grant applications. The agenda includes updates on the Sheriff’s Office training building and a USDA Forest Service contract. Several personnel items and licensing requests are also scheduled for approval.
- Statewide Affordable Housing Grant application and recommendations
- KNE Breilly Townhomes, LLC EDC Revolving Loan Fund application
- Sheriff’s Office Evidence Storage and Training Building update
- USDA Forest Service contract approval
- Oil tank lease agreement with East Side Oil Company
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment
The Planning Commission will review several land use applications, including property reclassifications and structure variances. The meeting includes the first reading of an interim sign ordinance regarding digital and electronic billboards. Additionally, members will consider requests to modify permit conditions for aggregate washing.
- First reading of an interim ordinance to moratorium digital and electronic billboards
- Reclassification of 15 acres in Homebrook Township from AG/F to RR-10
- Variance for a boathouse expansion at 6026 South Thunder Lake Drive NE
- Request to modify aggregate washing conditions for Hengels Ready Mix and Construction, Inc.
- Conditional use permit for a family compound at 5125 Woodland Drive NW
Soil and Water Conservation District
The Cass County Soil and Water Conservation District will review several cost-share applications for projects including well decommissioning and fencing. The board will also consider approving a new vision statement and a letter of support for the Camp Ripley Sentinel Landscape grant proposal.
- Approval of vision statement: 'Protecting the Heart of Minnesota's Lake Country'
- Letter of support for Camp Ripley Sentinel Landscape RCPP Grant Proposal
- Enrollment in a 7-month CD at 5% APY
- Cost share applications for well decommissioning and fencing
- Payment voucher for City of Walker storm water upgrades
County Commissioners
The board will hold public hearings regarding the Capital Improvement Plan and the second reading of Cass County Subdivision Ordinance 2024-02. Other agenda items include a 2023 financial update and the Madison Land Exchange in Bungo Township. The meeting also includes several administrative approvals, such as highway department personnel items and contract awards.
- Public hearing for second reading of Cass County Subdivision Ordinance 2024-02
- Public hearing on the Capital Improvement Plan
- Authorization to solicit bids for the 2024 audit
- Approval of crossing improvements on CSAH 18
- Madison Land Exchange in Bungo Township
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
County Commissioners
The Cass County Board of Commissioners will meet on May 21, 2024, at Pine Lake Township Townhall to consider a public hearing on revoking part of Temporary Trunk Highway No. 34 to Pine Lake Township, award highway contracts, and discuss a short-term rental ordinance investigation. They will also review budget amendments, capital improvement plans, and various personnel and donation items. The meeting includes a consent agenda with routine approvals.
- Public hearing to revoke part of Temporary Trunk Highway No. 34 to Pine Lake Township
- Award Contract 61506 and C.M. 2024-01 Aggregate Surfacing Bid
- Planning Commission short-term rental ordinance investigation request
- Approve General Fund 4th quarter budget amendments and transfers
- Accept donation of AIS water decontamination unit from Crooked Lake Township
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment
The Cass County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting on May 13, 2024, to consider one land reclassification, one administrative decision appeal, and numerous variance and conditional use permit applications. Most requests involve shoreline setbacks, bluff impacts, and earthen material movement on lakefront properties. The agenda also includes a discussion on short-term rental regulation.
- Reclassify 10 acres in May Township from Agricultural Forested to Rural Residential 10
- Appeal of administrative decision on 'rebuild' definition for variance conditions in Fairview Township
- Variance to rebuild/expand home within bluff impact zone on Gull Lake (9690 County 77 SW)
- Variance to move non-conforming cabin to 60-ft setback on Thunder Lake (3998 Teters Bay Trail NE)
- CUP for amateur radio antenna tower on 79.25 acres in Loon Lake Township
County Commissioners
The Cass County Board of Commissioners is meeting to consider a preliminary capital improvement plan, a land donation from Northern Waters Land Trust, an upgraded brine maker for the highway department, contract award 24006, and a local bridge replacement grant agreement. The board will also handle a consent agenda with routine approvals, personnel items, licenses, grants, and reports, plus confirm upcoming meeting dates.
- Preliminary Capital Improvement Plan review
- Land donation from Northern Waters Land Trust
- Upgraded brine maker for Cass County Highway Department
- Award Contract 24006
- Approve S.A.P. 011-643-005 Local Bridge Replacement Program Grant Agreement
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Soil and Water Conservation District
The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District is meeting to approve consent agenda items, hear reports from partner agencies, and decide on several contracts, resolutions, and project bids. Key actions include approving a streambank restoration oversight contract, a stormwater project bid for Longville and Federal Dam, and resolutions related to wetland conservation authority.
- Approval of streambank restoration construction oversight by Moore Engineering in Pine River Watershed
- Approval of Red Rock bid for Longville and Federal Dam stormwater projects from Enbridge funding
- Approval of Resolution 01-2024 accepting WCA delegation and Resolution 02-2024 delegating WCA to staff
- Approval of updated services agreement between Cass County and Cass SWCD
- Approval of cost share applications for well sealing in Pine Lake and Crooked Lake townships
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
County Commissioners
The Cass County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing for the 4th reading of Ordinance 2024-01, which would regulate all-terrain vehicles on county highways and public rights-of-way. The board will also consider several administrative items, including purchasing electronic poll rosters, adopting an interim zoning ordinance for digital signs, and approving various contracts and agreements.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 2024-01 regulating ATV use on county highways
- Approve purchase of Poll Pad electronic rosters
- Adopt interim zoning ordinance for digital/electronic signs
- Approve HHVS restroom remodel feasibility study
- Award contract 67004 and approve final payment for contract 07010
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment
The Cass County Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting on April 8, 2024, to decide on a final plat for a four-lot residential subdivision, eight variance requests for shoreline property improvements, and two conditional use permits for earth movement and a golf course. The agenda also includes requests to modify conditions of previously approved variances and a first reading of a new Subdivision and Platting Ordinance.
- Final plat for 'Two Lakes' residential subdivision, 4 lots on 25 acres at 1912 Nelson Lake Road SW
- Variance requests for shoreline additions and setbacks on Leech Lake, Little Boy Lake, Lake Leavitt, Hand Lake, and Lake Ada
- Conditional use permit for 900 cubic yards of earth movement at 6861 Christmas Point Road NW
- Conditional use permit for a golf course with 40,800 cubic yards of earth movement on 400 acres near 3204 88th Street SW
- First reading of a new Subdivision and Platting Ordinance to replace #2014-03
Soil and Water Conservation District
The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District is meeting to approve consent agenda items, hear updates from partner agencies, and decide on several cost-share applications. Key actions include approving funding for brine equipment for the county highway department, well sealing, and a grazing project in Maple Township. The board will also consider certificates of deposit, operating policies, and a letter of support for a grant proposal.
- Approval of CS446-24 for brine equipment for Cass County Highway Department
- Approval of CS435-24 for well sealing from State Cost Share 2022 and 2023
- Approval of CS451-24 for prescribed grazing, watering facility, high use area, and fencing in Maple Township
- Approval of payment voucher CS338-22 for retrofit equipment for City of Cass Lake for chloride reduction
- Receive and file approved CS450-24 for 77-acre PFM in Smoky Hollow Township
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
County Commissioners
The Cass County Board of Commissioners will meet to consider a workforce housing grant request, receive annual reports from several departments, and establish a Safe Streets for All task force. The board will also set a public hearing on vacating a segment of Whipholt Beach Road to Pine Lake Township, and act on a consent agenda with routine approvals.
- Approve Workforce Housing Grant Request
- Establish Safe Streets For All (SS4A) Task Force
- Establish public hearing to revocate Whipholt Beach Road segment to Pine Lake Township
- Approve contract with True North Strategy, LLC
- Adopt resolution supporting NW Minnesota 9-County Regional Hub & Spoke Group Project Funding
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
County Commissioners
The Cass County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing for the third reading of Ordinance 2024-01, which regulates all-terrain vehicle use on county highways and public rights-of-way. The board will also consider several financial and administrative items, including revolving loan funds, a workforce housing grant, and an investment policy. The agenda includes a consent agenda with routine approvals and reports.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 2024-01 regulating ATV use on county highways
- Approve additional revolving loan funds for community property development
- Approve workforce housing grant request
- Approve county investment policy
- Approve 2024 tree planting contract
🗳️ How they voted (14 roll-call votes)
Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment
The Planning Commission is reviewing several variance applications regarding building setbacks, structure heights, and lake proximity. The agenda also includes a preliminary plat for a four-lot residential development in Sylvan Township.
- Preliminary plat for 'Two Lakes' residential development at 1912 Nelson Lake Road SW
- Variance for deck and porch addition at 1600 Grouse Pines Lane NE
- Variance for residential structure and detached garage at 3973 Mockingbird Lane NW
- Variance for 3,900 sq foot residential structure at 7673 Marion Drive SW
- Variance for residential addition at 10954 Ottertail Point Drive NW
Soil and Water Conservation District
The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District is meeting to approve routine financial reports, cost-share applications, and several 2024 aquatic invasive species (AIS) program items, including a management plan, budget, and funding requests from lake associations. The board will also consider acting as fiscal host for an emerald ash borer grant and approve various membership dues and a $300 Envirothon education contribution. Most agenda items are approvals or routine filings, with no major policy decisions expected.
- Approve 2024 AIS Management Plan and AIS Program Budget
- Approve Waterguards Inspection Services Agreement for 2024
- Approve funding requests for Eurasian watermilfoil treatments on Roosevelt and Lawrence Lakes
- Approve cost-share applications including CS437-24 (Spider Lake), CS440-24 (17 acres pasture/hay in Walden Township), CS442-24 (30 acres cover crops in Maple Township), CS441-24 (31 acres cover crops in Walden Township)
- Approve $300 for Area Vill Envirothon education
County Commissioners
The Cass County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and second reading of Ordinance 2024-01, which would regulate all-terrain vehicle use on county highways and public rights-of-way. The board will also consider several letters of support, including for the RALLY Coalition, a Hackensack workforce housing project, and the Volunteer Driver Tax Appreciation Act, along with various administrative items.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 2024-01 regulating ATV use on county highways
- Letter of support for Hackensack Workforce Housing Project
- Approve Sheriff's Office window replacement
- Award contract for canine forensics on CSAH 37
- Approve Community Crime Intervention and Prevention Grant
🗳️ How they voted (12 roll-call votes)
County Commissioners
The Cass County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing for the first reading of Ordinance 2024-01, which would regulate all-terrain vehicle use on county highways and public right-of-ways. The board will also consider several highway bids, a probation vehicle purchase, and support for Clay County's psychiatric residential treatment facility funding. Numerous consent agenda items include personnel approvals, licenses, and various contracts.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 2024-01 regulating ATV use on county highways
- Approve support for Clay County's pursuit of funding for psychiatric residential treatment facilities
- Award bids for roadway striping, crack sealing, and chloride application (C.M. 2024-03, 2024-04, 2024-05)
- Approve probation vehicle purchase
- Approve 2024 unorganized fire contract for City of Federal Dam
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment
The Planning Commission will meet to discuss several variance applications and conditional use permits. Items include requests for residential setbacks near lakes and bluffs, as well as a commercial storage facility proposal.
- Variance: Screen porch addition at 5248 Bobber Lane NE (Little Bass Lake)
- Variance: Pump tank and drain field installation at 6419 Big Rock Trail NE
- Conditional Use Permit: Driveway expansion and earth movement at 114 Marsh Hawk Lane NE
- Conditional Use Permit: Commercial storage facility at 1436 Bur Oak Trail NE
County Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners will consider several administrative and infrastructure items, including land sale approvals and watershed workplans. Discussions will also cover the establishment of a corrections advisory board and next steps for a sheriff's office building.
- Approve Cass County EDC Revolving Loan Fund Application from MDIC, LLC
- Establish Cass County Corrections Advisory Board
- Approve 2024 Tax Forfeit Land Sale
- Approve Sylvan Township Easement for non-motorized trail
- Approve 2024-2025 Mississippi River Headwaters Watershed Workplan
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
County Commissioners
The Cass County Board will review the 2024 revenues and expenditures by fund and the published budget, receive a report from the ATV ordinance committee, and consider a cyber incident response plan. They will also act on a consent agenda covering personnel, licenses, contracts, easements, and grants.
- 2024 revenues and expenditures by fund and published budget
- Report from ATV ordinance committee
- Approve cyber incident response plan
- Approve final payment on contract 23103 (Phase 3)
- Approve contract with Burns and McDonnell for solid waste management plan update and feasibility study
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment
The Cass County Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting on January 8, 2024, to consider a land reclassification, four variance requests, and one conditional use permit. The agenda includes a proposal to reclassify 30.1 acres in Wilson Township, variances for residential structures near lakes, and an expansion of Camp Bliss resort. Field inspections for these applications were conducted on January 2, 2024.
- Reclassification: Greg Witt, Wilson Township – 30.1 acres from Agricultural/Forestry to 10 acres RR-10 and 20.1 acres RR-20
- Variance: Peter Anderley, Powers Township – 2,728 sq ft home at 58' setback to Rainy Lake (RD), 100' required
- Variance: Doug Carlson, Powers Township – After-the-Fact 1,152 sq ft home at 93' setback to Five Point Lake (RD), 100' required
- Variance: Leland Olson, Shingobee Township – 2,540 sq ft home with garage in bluff impact zone on Leech Lake (GD), 30' bluff setback
- Conditional Use Permit: Camp Bliss, Shingobee Township – add 3-bedroom staff housing to expand existing resort
Soil and Water Conservation District
The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District is reviewing its 2024 draft budget and membership dues. The board will also consider voucher payments for cost share applications and reports from NRCS and BWSR.
- Review of 2024 draft budget
- Voucher payment for CS414-23 PFM from LLR WBIF Phase 2
- Voucher payment for CS427-23 Well Sealing from State Cost Share 2023
- Discussion of Sustainable Farming Association membership donation
- Review of 2024 MASWCD Area VIII dues
County Commissioners
The Cass County Board will reorganize for 2024 by electing a chair and vice chair, and will set business rules, the meeting schedule, and committee appointments. It will also consider a consent agenda with numerous routine approvals, including contracts, personnel items, and agreements, plus a closed executive session on pending litigation.
- Election of chair and vice chair for 2024
- Approve 2024 legal fee agreement with Quinlivan & Hughes PA
- Approve CSAH 203 professional service agreement
- Approve 2024 unorganized fire contracts
- Approve standard mileage rate for 2024