Cass County public meetings in 2025

County Commissioners

The board will adopt compensation levels for elected officials for 2026 and authorize a citizen per diem. They will also approve the 2026‑2028 labor contract for Teamsters General Local Union No. 346 and adopt a pay plan for non‑union personnel. Additional items include financial reports, waste‑management contracts, and equipment quotes for jail lock upgrades.

• Establish 2026 elected official compensation
• Approve 2026‑2028 Teamsters General Local Union No. 346 labor contract
• Approve MSW and recycling contracts with DemCon/General Waste
• Approve quote from JTA Builders LLC/MDSI for jail locks
• Final payment on Contract 61003

The Cass County Board unanimously approved the regular and consent agendas. It adopted resolutions establishing a $75 per‑day per diem and a $40,403.97 annual salary for commissioners, and set 2026 salaries for the County Attorney ($176,196.80 rising to $181,313.60) and Sheriff ($152,755.20 rising to $157,144.00). The Board also approved per‑diem rates for citizen committees ($75/day) and the Planning Commission ($150/day for monthly meetings). All votes were unanimous or had no dissenting votes.

• Approved Regular Agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 70‑25: commissioner per diem $75/day and salary $40,403.97 (majority vote, no nay)
• Adopted Resolution 71‑25: County Attorney salary $176,196.80/$181,313.60 and Sheriff salary $152,755.20/$157,144.00 (majority vote, no nay)
• Approved 2026 citizen per diem $75/day and Planning Commission per diem $150/day (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Fire Contract for City of Deer River – $14,915.00 (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Fire Contract for City of Remer – $5,692.21 (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Fire Contract for Walker Area Joint Fire Department – $2,501.50 (unanimous)

Soil and Water Conservation District

The district approved a change to hold regular meetings on the second Wednesday of each month from 10:00 a.m. to noon, alternating locations in Backus and Walker. It also approved opening a new $70,000 certificate of deposit for seven months, a $25,000 down payment for a Chevrolet Equinox, and acceptance of the Keep it Clean Grant. The 2026 AIS Management Plan and AIS Budget were approved, and several cost‑share shoreline‑restoration projects received approval.

• Approved change to meeting schedule: second Wednesday 10‑12, alternating Backus and Walker locations (vote 4‑1)
• Approved opening a new CD in the amount of $70,000 for 7 months (unanimous)
• Approved $25,000 down payment for Chevrolet Equinox (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of Keep it Clean Grant; Dana Gutzmann authorized to sign (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 AIS Management Plan (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 AIS Budget (unanimous)
• Approved lowest‑bid contractor Wood & Stuff for tree planting at Girl Lake Outlet (unanimous)
• Approved multiple Cost Share shoreline‑restoration applications (CS529‑25, CS532‑25, CS533‑25, CS534‑25, CS535‑25, CS537‑25, CS536‑25, CS538‑25) (unanimous)

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Cass County Planning Commission will consider a reclassification of 43.8 acres from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 10 for a parcel east of 2445 County 63 NE. It will also review several variance requests and conditional use permits, including a small addition near Girl Lake, an expansion near Lower Trelipe Lake, a short‑term rental near Gull Lake, and a peat‑movement project for a wildlife pond. All items are scheduled for discussion at the December 8, 2025 meeting.

• Reclassify 43.8 acres (PID# 08-018-2001) to Rural Residential 10 – Boy River Township
• Variance for an 8’ × 28’ addition at 1008 Sarajac Road NE – Kego Township
• Replacement and expansion of two non‑conforming structures at 5479 Snowball Road NE – Inquadona Township
• Conditional Use Permit for a short‑term rental unit (15 occupants, 6 bedrooms) at 9696 County 77 SW – Fairview Township
• Conditional Use Permit to move ~19,000 yards of peat for a wildlife pond at 4339 24th Street SW – Walden Township

The Planning Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the November 3 meeting and the agenda for the December 8 meeting. It recommended approving a reclassification of 43.8 acres from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 10. The commission approved a variance for an 8‑by‑28‑foot addition at Girl Lake and denied a variance to replace and expand two structures near Lower Trelipe Lake.

• Approved November 3 minutes (7-0)
• Approved December 8 agenda (7-0)
• Recommended approval of 43.8‑acre reclassification (7-0)
• Approved 8’ × 28’ addition variance at 1008 Sarajac Rd NE (7-0)
• Denied variance for replacement/expansion at 5479 Snowball Rd NE (6-1)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board will hold a Truth‑In‑Taxation public hearing on the 2026 budget and discuss fees. Commissioners will vote on a motion to schedule adoption of the 2026 Cass County levy, budget, and fee schedule at the December 16 meeting. A public hearing will consider extending the LOST program through 2046, and a final payment will be made on Contract 25004. The consent agenda includes routine approvals such as holiday office closures and licensing updates.

• Public hearing to extend LOST through 2046
• Final payment on Contract 25004
• Truth‑In‑Taxation public hearing on the 2026 budget
• Motion to schedule adoption of the 2026 Cass County levy, budget and fee schedule
• Consent agenda approvals (e.g., holiday office closing, licensing, opioid settlement funds)

The commissioners unanimously approved the regular and consent agendas. They adopted Resolution 68-25 to grant two gambling exempt permits, and Resolution 67-25 to back the City of Walker’s request for Local Road Improvement Program funding. They also approved Resolution 66-25 to support a LRIP application for County Road 113 and authorized a $3,400 purchase of a utility trailer. All actions were adopted by majority vote with no dissenting votes recorded.

• Approved Regular Agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 68-25 approving two gambling exempt permits (majority vote)
• Adopted Resolution 67-25 supporting Walker LRIP road funding request (majority vote)
• Adopted Resolution 66-25 supporting LRIP application for County Road 113 (majority vote)
• Approved prepayment of $211,349.16 to City of Walker for water, sewer, street improvements
• Approved purchase of a 7x10 utility trailer for $3,400.00
• Approved ARPA Grant activities for medical and mental health providers

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will consider a consent agenda that includes numerous routine approvals and payments. They will vote on authorizing Fund 73 to finance construction of the East Gull Lake Trail on County State‑Aid Highway 70. Additional items include final payments on three highway contracts and approval of a housing support agreement with Burlington Recovery Homes, LLC. The meeting also sets dates for upcoming public hearings and an executive session on labor negotiation strategy.

• Authorize payment from Fund 73 for construction of the East Gull Lake Trail on CSAH 70
• Final payment on Contract 22083
• Final payment on Contract 23116
• Final payment on Contract 64804
• Approve Housing Support Agreement with Burlington Recovery Homes, LLC

The Cass County Board of Commissioners adopted several resolutions and authorizations. They approved gambling permits, sponsored LRIP road improvement applications for Pillager and Sylvan Township, renewed a wireless contract, and authorized funds for trail construction, texting services, ambulance support, and an ARPA health grant.

• Approved Resolution 60-25 granting LG220 gambling permits for Crooked Lake Relief Association and Squaw Lake Ducks Unlimited (ayes: Gaalswyk, Haaland, Kangas, Bruns; none nay; absent Lilyquist)
• Adopted Resolution 63-25 to sponsor City of Pillager’s LRIP road improvement application (ayes: Gaalswyk, Haaland, Kangas, Bruns; none nay; absent Lilyquist)
• Adopted Resolution 64-25 to sponsor Sylvan Township’s LRIP road improvement application (ayes: Gaalswyk, Haaland, Kangas, Bruns; none nay; absent Lilyquist)
• Approved renewal of wireless service contract with Ruckus Wireless via SHI International for $428
• Authorized $96,312.82 from Fund 73 for construction of the East Gull Lake Trail on CSAH 70
• Authorized purchase of a Simple Texting Plan for one year, not to exceed $500
• Authorized $155,500 for 3rd Quarter Longville Ambulance Subordinate Service District
• Approved ARPA Grant Activity for Advanced Correctional Health Care (Jail Mental Health) $4,445.92

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District will approve payment vouchers for forest stewardship plans, shoreline restoration, and cover crops, along with contracts for Buxton Road stormwater improvements and a $5,000 culvert engineering agreement with the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe. The board will also consider accepting a $10,300 grant for a county ag inspector.

• Approval of Buxton Road stormwater contract
• Approval of culvert engineering agreement (up to $5,000)
• Acceptance of $10,300 County Ag Inspector Grant
• Approval of AIS funding requests and invasive plant management grant
• Approval of payment vouchers for WBIF Phase 3 projects

The Cass County Soil & Water Conservation District unanimously approved a contract with Karvakko Engineering to design stormwater best management practices for Buxton Road, not to exceed $15,500. A request to use unused AIS staffing hours for chemical treatment of Eurasian watermilfoil was denied after a 1‑for‑3 vote. Additional items approved unanimously included a $1,000 contribution to a soil‑health event, a $10,300 state agricultural grant, and a $5,000 culvert‑engineering agreement with the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe.

• Approved Karvakko Engineering contract for Buxton Road stormwater BMP design, max $15,500 (unanimous)
• Denied AIS funding exception for Eurasian watermilfoil chemical treatment (1 for, 3 against)
• Approved $1,000 contribution to SFA Soil Health Event (unanimous)
• Approved $10,300 Minnesota Dept. of Agriculture County Ag Inspector Grant for FY 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved $5,000 culvert‑engineering agreement with Leech Lake Band‑selected firm (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for City of Hackensack Re‑Leaf application (unanimous)
• Approved annual NACD membership at $525 (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Crow Wing River Watershed Management Implementation Agreement (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review the 2026 budget and fee schedule and establish a public hearing to extend the Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) through 2046. The meeting also includes a closed session for annual department head evaluations.

• Establishment of a public hearing to extend the LOST through 2046
• Review of the 2026 Budget and Fee Schedule
• Approval of Cass County as sponsoring agency for Shingobee Township LRIP applications
• Final payments on contracts 61506 and 80303
• Approval of Microsoft Office 365 contract renewal

The Cass County Board approved the regular agenda and the consent agenda unanimously. It adopted Resolution 54-25, nominating Crow Wing County Commissioner Steve Borrows to the Sourcewell Board of Directors for a four‑year term beginning January 2026. The Board also scheduled the Truth in Taxation public hearing for the 2026 budget and fee schedule on December 2, 2025. Several contracts and expenditures were approved, including a $105,315.48 Microsoft Office 365 renewal and $9,492.00 for MRAP tire replacement.

• Approved regular agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 54-25 nominating Steve Borrows to Sourcewell Board (unanimous)
• Scheduled Truth in Taxation public hearing for 2026 budget, Dec 2, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Microsoft Office 365 contract renewal $105,315.48
• Approved Sierra Wireless AirLink Service contract $1,110.00
• Authorized out‑of‑state travel for Chief Deputy Eric Alger to FBI National Academy
• Authorized replacement of MRAP tires $9,492.00

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Cass County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will consider two property reclassifications and seven variance requests. The meeting includes decisions on residential structures and storage facilities near lakes and rivers.

• Reclassify 84.81 acres from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 20 at 7264 37th Avenue SW
• Reclassify 5 acres at 12799 11th Ave SW to Sylvan Commercial
• Variance for a 1,341 sq ft residential structure at 5479 Snowball Road NE
• Variance for a 696 sq ft Accessory Dwelling Unit at 2278 Fahrenholz Road NE
• Conditional Use Permit for a commercial storage facility at 1752 State 84 SW

The Planning Commission approved the meeting minutes and agenda unanimously. It recommended approval of a reclassification request for a parcel at 12799 11th Ave SW. It accepted the withdrawal of a reclassification request for a parcel at 7264 37th Avenue SW. It also approved a variance to reestablish a bluff and add a deck and pergola at 6589 Andresen Bay Drive NE.

• Approved minutes of Oct 13, 2025 meeting (5-0)
• Approved agenda for Nov 3, 2025 meeting (5-0)
• Recommended approval of reclassification of .3 acres Rural Residential 2.5 to Sylvan Commercial and 4.7 acres Shoreland Residential to Sylvan Commercial at 12799 11th Ave SW (5-0)
• Accepted withdrawal of reclassification of 84.81 acres Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 20 at 7264 37th Avenue SW (5-0)
• Approved variance to reestablish bluff and add deck/pergola at 6589 Andresen Bay Drive NE (5-0)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will consider approving the transition of the county's probation delivery system to the Community Corrections Act model, awarding a bridge load rating contract, and approving a variety of personnel, contract, and reclassification items. The meeting will also include updates from various county departments and a public comment period for a watershed amendment.

• Approve transition of probation delivery system to CCA model
• Award bridge load rating contract to LHB
• Approve new case aide position for fraud prevention
• Approve website hosting contract renewal with CivicPlus, LLC
• Leech Lake River Watershed Amendment public comment period

The Cass County Board unanimously approved the regular meeting agenda and the consent agenda, with one commissioner abstaining. It also approved a website hosting contract, multiple grant allocations, and a request to obtain short‑term and long‑term plans for the jail facility. Two zoning reclassification applications were approved while one was denied.

• Approved regular meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous; Gaalswyk abstained)
• Approved website hosting contract renewal with CivicPlus, LLC for $5,469.76 (unanimous)
• Approved obtaining proposals for short‑term and long‑term jail facility plans, including exploring Local Option Sales Tax (unanimous)
• Approved Emergency Management Performance Grant $24,207 with matching $24,207 (unanimous)
• Approved ARPA Grant activities totaling $11,255.92 (unanimous)
• Denied zoning reclassification application from Lamont Peterson (May Township)
• Approved zoning reclassification applications for Wildwood Beach Resort (Woodrow Township) and Sharon Owen (Fairview Township) (unanimous)

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Cass County Planning Commission will consider a final plat for the Makinauk Shores First Addition, a five‑lot residential subdivision on 12.9 acres in Turtle Lake Township. The commission will also review several reclassification applications, including a 150.68‑acre change from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential in May Township. Additional items include variances for existing structures, a conditional use permit for a small sauna business, and a request to modify an existing variance width at Ball’s 1st Addition to Gitchee Gumee Beach.

• Final Plat – “Makinauk Shores First Addition”, 5 residential lots, PID# 45‑352‑0170/0171/0180, 12.9 acres, Shoreland Residential zone
• Reclassification – 150.68 acres from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 10, PID# 24‑129‑1101, 11309 61st Ave SW, May Township
• Variance – Wildwood Beach Resort to retain two nonconforming cabins and a basketball court with a 47‑ft lake setback, 5.28 acres, PID# 51‑010‑2215, 4417 Buxton Rd NW
• Conditional Use Permit – small sauna business for up to 4 guests, 1.40 acres, PID# 38‑358‑0110, 6111 Evening Vista Trail NW, Shingobee Township
• Other Business – modify variance VP25‑141‑31‑3 to increase house width from 46 ft to 52 ft, 1.21 acres, PID# 38‑467‑0210, 5143 Boone Point Rd NW

The Planning Commission approved the September 8 meeting minutes and agenda unanimously. It approved the final plat for the five‑lot Makinauk Shores First Addition. It recommended approval of a 52.18‑acre reclassification to Rural Residential 2.5 and a 2.4‑acre reclassification to Shoreland Residential, while recommending denial of a 150.68‑acre reclassification to Rural Residential 10. It also approved a variance to keep two nonconforming cabins and a basketball court at Wildwood Beach Resort.

• Approved September 8 minutes (5‑0)
• Approved September 8 agenda (5‑0)
• Approved final plat for Makinauk Shores First Addition (5‑0)
• Recommended approval of 52.18‑acre reclassification to Rural Residential 2.5 (5‑0)
• Recommended denial of 150.68‑acre reclassification to Rural Residential 10 (5‑0)
• Recommended approval of 2.4‑acre reclassification to Shoreland Residential (5‑0)
• Approved variance to maintain two cabins and a basketball court at Wildwood Beach Resort (5‑0)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners meeting on October 7, 2025 will consider a range of items. Key decisions include approving the 2025 budget amendment, authorizing a tax‑forfeit land sale, and awarding several contracts for road and infrastructure projects. Additional agenda items cover employee recognitions, updates on the Aw‑Gwah‑Ching workforce housing project, and scheduling future meetings.

• Approve 2025 Budget Amendment
• 2025 Tax Forfeit Land Sale
• Award Contract 59811
• Approve MnDOT Agreement 1054931 for CSAH 53 Bridge Replacement
• Approve Purchase of In‑Floor Hoist

The commissioners unanimously approved the regular and consent agendas. They adopted Resolution 44-25, authorizing a $37,900 Toward Zero Death traffic‑safety grant. Additional approvals included a credit‑card limit increase, a business credit line, a Solarwinds contract renewal, and a $650 Beaver dam removal award.

• Approved regular agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 44-25 Toward Zero Death grant, $37,900 (5‑0)
• Approved credit‑card limit increase to $100,000 for county and Highway Department
• Approved business credit agreement with Border States Electric Supply, up to $5,000 per month
• Approved contract renewal with Solarwinds via SHI International for $1,852.90
• Awarded Beaver dam removal contract to Sawyer Enterprises for $650
• Received and filed zoning reclassification applications (Vanvickle & Peterson; Owen; Deegan) and remanded to Planning Commission

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District board will approve the consent agenda items, including meeting minutes, an overnight travel request, and several forest stewardship plan filings. It will consider a motion to apply for up to $40,000 from the BWSR Keep It Clean grant program for FY 2025‑2026. The board will also review a motion to approve engineering design work for Edgewater Drive erosion in Woodrow Township using Leech Lake River WBIF Phase 3 funds and a renewal of a certificate of deposit for $37,061.00.

• Approve motion to apply for up to $40,000 BWSR Keep It Clean grant (FY 2025‑2026)
• Approve engineering design contract for Edgewater Drive erosion in Woodrow Township using Leech Lake River WBIF Phase 3 funds
• Approve renewal of certificate of deposit ending in 00X42 with $37,061.00 at best 7‑month rate
• Approve payment voucher CS512-25 for Forest Stewardship Plan from Crow Wing River WBIF Phase 1
• Approve contract amendment A2025-09 for Cost Share Application CS510-25

The Cass Soil & Water Conservation District unanimously approved funding support for a Keep It Clean grant up to $40,000. It also approved engineering design work for Edgewater Drive erosion control and several financial items, while tabling the renewal of a Certificate of Deposit. All motions passed unanimously unless noted otherwise.

• Approved support for Keep It Clean grant up to $40,000 (unanimous)
• Approved engineering design work for Edgewater Drive erosion (unanimous)
• Approved Bank Statement from 9/18/25 (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's Report and Bills Paid (unanimous)
• Approved ACM and Cass SWCD Girl Lake Rock Arch Rapids Contract (unanimous)
• Approved Contract Amendment A2025-09 for cost‑share application CS510‑25 (unanimous)
• Approved CS522‑25 payment of $5,580 from Leech Lake River Watershed Phase 3 Funding (unanimous)
• Renewal of Certificate of Deposit ending in XXXXXX42 with $37,061.00 (tabled unanimously)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board will hold a public hearing on exchanging and revoking roads within Pine River Township and consider approving a joint powers agreement for that exchange. It will also consider a joint powers agreement with Loon Lake Township. Additional items include reports from the Insurance Committee and the Opioid Settlement Committee, and approval of HHVS and Annex roofing projects.

• Public hearing for the exchange and revocation of roads within Pine River Township
• Approve Joint Powers Agreement for the exchange and revocation of roads within Pine River Township
• Approve Joint Powers Agreement with Loon Lake Township
• Approve HHVS and Annex roofing projects
• Award Contract 65301

The Cass County Board unanimously adopted Resolution 43-25, exchanging County State Aid Highway 27 with Pine River Township and taking ownership of 44th Avenue SW and 4th Street SW. The board also approved the insurance committee’s recommendations to select MetLife as the dental carrier, Pinnacle as the HSA/FSA administrator, and Option 2 for the county medical plan. Additional approvals included ARPA grant payments for jail mental health, opioid settlement fund allocations, a $15,868.57 hot‑water coil replacement, a $117,708.10 road‑cost transfer, and a $9,892.12 SafeAssure service agreement.

• Adopted Resolution 43-25 to exchange/revoke Pine River Township roads (unanimous)
• Approved MetLife as new dental carrier (unanimous)
• Approved Pinnacle as new HSA/FSA/D C B administrator (unanimous)
• Approved Option 2 medical plan design (unanimous)
• Approved ARPA grant payments $4,445.92 and $6,250.00 for jail mental health (unanimous)
• Approved $15,868.57 hot‑water coil replacement in Annex (unanimous)
• Approved $117,708.10 transfer of unorganized township road costs (unanimous)
• Approved 12‑month SafeAssure service agreement $9,892.12 (unanimous)

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Soil and Water Conservation District will open bids for the Girl Lake Rock Arch Rapids project. A motion will be considered to approve the lowest responsible bidder, contingent on a review by Houston Engineering and receipt of the DNR work permit. The meeting also includes routine items such as calling the meeting to order, the pledge of allegiance, agenda approval, and adjournment.

• Opening of bids for the Girl Lake Rock Arch Rapids project
• Recommendation to approve the lowest responsible bidder pending Houston Engineering review
• Requirement to obtain DNR work permit before award
• Approval of agenda for discussion

The district approved its agenda without amendment. Members opened bids for the Girl Lake Rock Arch Rapids project and voted to accept the lowest responsible bidder, pending Houston Engineering's review for completeness and DNR permit compliance. Both motions passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved opening of bids for Girl Lake Rock Arch Rapids (unanimous)
• Approved accepting lowest responsible bidder pending Houston Engineering review (unanimous)

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Cass County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will review several land-use applications, including residential reclassifications and shoreland variances. The body will also consider conditional use permits for short-term rentals and commercial storage developments. Some items are 'After-The-Fact' applications for completed work.

• Reclassification of 39.86 acres from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential at 2384 44th Street SW
• Preliminary plat for 'Makinauk Shores First Addition' consisting of five residential lots on 12.9 acres
• Conditional Use Permit for a short-term rental with 25-person occupancy at 4579 Stuart Beach Lane NE
• Final plat and PUD application for 'Garage Max 371' involving 30 lots on 11.2 acres for commercial storage
• Variance request for a 190-foot shoreland recreational use area at 3345 County 45 NW

The commission approved the meeting minutes and agenda unanimously. It recommended approval of a reclassification of about 40 acres in Wilson Township from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential zones. The board also approved the Makinauk Shores First Addition preliminary plat, creating five residential lots in Turtle Lake Township. Two variance requests were denied: one for a porch and deck expansion in Pine Lake Township and another for a shoreland recreational area on Pleasant Lake.

• Approved August 11, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved September 8, 2025 agenda (6-0)
• Recommended approval of reclassification of 20 acres to Rural Residential 20 and 19.86 acres to Rural Residential 10 (6-0)
• Approved Makinauk Shores First Addition preliminary plat for five lots (6-0)
• Denied variance for porch and deck expansion at 1662 Woodtick Trail NW (3-3)
• Denied variance for 190‑foot shoreland recreational use at 3345 County 45 NW (6-0)

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District will meet to approve routine financial documents including draft minutes, cancelled items, and payment vouchers totaling $3,000. The board will also consider approving a Woodrow Township stormwater retrofit project proposal and a $4,000 increase to district credit card limits.

• Approve draft minutes from 8.7.2025 meeting
• Receive and file cancelled CS494-25 and payment voucher CS493-25 ($2,683.61 + $316.39)
• Approve Woodrow Township stormwater retrofit project proposal
• Approve $4,000 district credit card limit increase ($1,000 for Steve Henry, $3,000 for Dana Gutzmann)
• Renew CD at 4.1% for 7 months

The board approved the agenda and consent agenda unanimously. Financial items including the bank statement, treasurer's report, CD renewal, and a credit‑card limit increase to $4,000 (split $1,000 for Steve Henry and $3,000 for Dana Gutzmann) were also approved unanimously. The request to address Woodrow Township stormwater retrofits was tabled until further interest is gauged.

• Approved agenda (unanimously)
• Approved consent agenda with minute edits (unanimously)
• Approved bank statement from 8/21/25 (unanimously)
• Approved treasurer's report and bills paid (unanimously)
• Tabled Woodrow Township stormwater retrofit request (unanimously)
• Received and filed CD renewal at 4.1% for seven months (unanimously)
• Increased district credit card limit to $4,000, $1,000 for Steve Henry and $3,000 for Dana Gutzmann (unanimously)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve routine maintenance items including sidewalk replacement in Walker, hazardous material abatement at the highway department, and final payments on two contracts. They will also consider personnel actions, grant activities, and a joint powers agreement with May Township. The meeting includes procedural items and a report from the Longville Area Subordinate Service District.

• Approve removal and replacement of concrete sidewalks in Walker
• Approve abatement of regulated materials at Walker Highway Department
• Approve final payments on Contract 25002 and Contract 63703
• Approve joint powers agreement with May Township
• Approve early childhood collaborative agreement with Pillager School District

The commissioners unanimously approved the regular agenda and the consent agenda. They also voted unanimously to select UMR as the 2026 third‑party administrator for the county medical plan. By majority vote the board adopted Resolution 40‑25 establishing the 2026 preliminary property tax levy at 11.98%, with a public hearing scheduled for Dec. 2, 2025. Additional approvals included auditor warrants, grant payments and repair quotes.

• Approved Regular Agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Approved multiple Auditor Warrants (e.g., $242,839.80 on Aug 14 2025) (unanimous)
• Approved ARPA Grant Activity to Mary Mapes – $6,250.00 (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Affordable Housing Aid to Lakes Area Habitat for Humanity – $11,707.35 (unanimous)
• Selected UMR as 2026 Third‑Party Administrator for the county medical plan (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 40‑25 establishing 2026 preliminary property tax levy at 11.98% (majority vote)
• Approved REAM FY 2026‑2027 Grant funds – $32,000 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss highway contracts, environmental services requests, and a presentation from the Initiative Foundation. The meeting includes a consent agenda covering personnel items, grant applications, and equipment purchases.

• Reject all bids on Highway Department Contract 63607
• Deny Richard Beach reclassification request
• Award installation of a chain-link fence for the Backus City Recycling Area
• Adopt resolution for Sourcewell Impact Funds grant application
• Refer 2026 Cass County Historical Society budget request to the Citizen Budget Committee

The Cass County Board approved the regular and consent agendas unanimously. It adopted Resolution 37-25, supporting the Sheriff’s Office with a $50,000 impact‑funding application. The Board authorized $155,500 for the Longville Ambulance Subordinate Service District and approved several small purchases and a $2,400 fence contract for the City of Backus recycling area.

• Approved Regular Agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 37-25 supporting $50,000 Sheriff impact‑funding (Ayes: Gaalswyk, Lilyquist, Kangas, Bruns; Absent: Haaland)
• Authorized $155,500 for Longville Ambulance Subordinate Service District
• Authorized $1,000 Minnesota Forest Resource Council sponsorship
• Authorized purchase of printer for County Attorney’s Office for $2,619.00
• Awarded $2,400 chain‑link fence contract to Steve Hoopman for City of Backus recycling area
• Received and filed Initiative Foundation presentation (no vote)

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Cass County Planning Commission will hear ten zoning cases at this meeting, including one reclassification request and nine variance applications for shoreland properties. All items involve setback rules, non-conforming structures, or conditional use permits near lakes in Becker, Shingobee, Ponto Lake, Crooked Lake, Washburn, Thunder Lake, Turtle Lake, and Leech Lake townships. Field inspections for these applications were conducted August 4–5, 2025.

• Reclassification: Richard Beach’s 29.5-acre Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 20 request (SW1/4 SE1/4 Section 20, Township 134, Range 32)
• Variance: George Brandt’s 1,748 sq ft home 40 ft from Ten Mile Lake OHWL (5143 Boone Point Road NW)
• Variance: Todd Elison’s cabin expansion and retaining walls 5 ft from drainage easement (1764 12th Ave NW)
• Conditional Use Permit: Marcus Dahle’s 200+ cubic yards of fill for building pad (10036 Starlite Trail NW)
• Conditional Use Permit: Ben Hoogland’s 16-person short-term rental on Gull Lake (10626 County 77 SW)

The commission approved the July 14 minutes and the August 11 agenda unanimously. It voted 7‑0 to recommend denial of a request to reclassify about 29.5 acres from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 20. It also voted 7‑0 to approve two variance applications: one for a new 1,748‑sq‑ft residence on 5143 Boone Point Road NW and another for a cabin expansion on 1764 12th Ave NW.

• Approved July 14, 2025 minutes (7‑0)
• Approved August 11, 2025 agenda (7‑0)
• Recommended denial of 29.5‑acre reclassification (7‑0)
• Approved variance for George Brandt – 1,748‑sq‑ft residence at 5143 Boone Point Road NW (7‑0)
• Approved variance for Todd Elison – cabin and accessory structure at 1764 12th Ave NW (7‑0)

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District is meeting to approve payment vouchers for restoration projects and review new cost share applications. The board will also consider grant applications and updated bylaws for the Leech Lake River Watershed Policy Committee.

• Approval of cost share application CS516-25 for shoreline restoration (Leech Lake River Phase 3 WBIF)
• Approval of cost share application CS517-25 for cover crops (Crow Wing River WBIF Ph 1)
• Approval of cost share application CS519-25 for City of Walker vehicle retrofits for brine application
• Approval of grant execution for MOSH Education Grant regarding Crow Wing River Basin Forage Council Grazing School
• Approval for Cass SWCD to apply for the County Agricultural Inspector Grant

The district approved the agenda with three added items and the consent agenda, both unanimously. It also approved the MOSH Education Grant to lower tuition for the Crow Wing River Basin Forage Council Grazing School. Additional unanimous approvals included bank statements, a $23,299.96 CD renewal, the Pine River WBIF Fiscal Agent Agreement, and several cost‑share projects.

• Approved agenda with three additions (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda with two edits (unanimous)
• Approved MOSH Education Grant execution (unanimous)
• Approved bank statements and CD renewal of $23,299.96 (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's Report and bills paid (unanimous)
• Approved Pine River WBIF Fiscal Agent Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Leech Lake River Watershed Policy Committee Bylaws (unanimous)
• Approved Cost Share Application CS516-25 shoreline restoration (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review a 2025 budget amendment and various facility maintenance costs. The meeting includes decisions on road contracts, grant submissions for culvert replacement, and a public hearing regarding a road revocation in Pine River Township.

• Approval of 2025 Budget Amendment
• Establishment of a public hearing to revocate a road to Pine River Township
• Award of contract C.M. 2025-02 for Aggregate Stockpile Production
• Authorization of IIMA PROTECT Grant submission for CSAH 11 Culvert Replacement Project
• Solicitation of RFPs for HHVS and Courthouse Annex roofing projects

The Cass County Board unanimously approved the regular and consent agendas and then approved a series of contracts, grants, and agreements, including a $57,024 Victim Services grant and a law‑enforcement services agreement up to $61,628. It also approved zoning reclassifications for parcels in Powers, Leach Lake, and Fairview Townships, and authorized purchases for a jail camera system and a dispatch power station. Additional approvals included a $190,507 wellness court grant and several service contracts.

• Adopted Resolution 33-25 for Victim Services grant $57,024 (5-0)
• Approved Law Enforcement Services Agreement with Cass Lake Bena School, up to $61,628 (unanimous)
• Approved Zoning Reclassification applications for parcels in Powers, Leach Lake, and Fairview Townships (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of Pro‑Vision Camera System for jail transport vehicle, $5,194 (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of portable power station for Dispatch Emergency Services, $899 (unanimous)
• Approved FY26 Wellness Court Grant application, $190,507 (unanimous)
• Approved Master Client Agreement with Stonebrooke Engineering to evaluate bridges 11509 and 11526 (unanimous)
• Approved propane contract for heating season 2025‑2026 with Northdale Oil, $1.210 per gallon (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider the revocation of roads within Otter Tail Peninsula Township and a related Joint Powers Agreement. The meeting also includes approvals for equipment leases, infrastructure quotes, and various personnel and grant items.

• Public hearing for the revocation of roads within Otter Tail Peninsula Township
• Joint Powers Agreement with Otter Tail Peninsula Township for road revocation
• Equipment lease with Stockman Trucking LLC
• H&R quote for cable barrier anchorages
• Installation of a chain-link fence for the Backus City recycling area

The commissioners unanimously approved the regular agenda and the consent agenda, which included numerous auditor warrants, contracts and grant approvals. They unanimously referred the 457(b) deferred‑compensation plan review to the Personnel Committee. A motion was made and seconded to adopt Resolution 32‑25, revoking portions of Ketchum Rd., Sunset Beach Rd., Sucker Bay Rd., Two Points Rd., Two Points Lane NW and Otter Tail Peninsula Rd. to Otter Tail Peninsula Township.

• Approved regular agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items including auditor warrants and contracts (unanimous)
• Referred 457(b) deferred‑compensation plan change request to Personnel Committee (unanimous)
• Motion to adopt Resolution 32‑25 revoking township roads presented (motion by Kangas, seconded by Lilyquist)
• Approved renewal contract with SHI International for $85,618.80 firewall support (unanimous)
• Approved online calendar hosting service to Brown Bear Software for $600 per year (unanimous)
• Approved award of multiple small projects to Ruyak Enterprises and Schrupp Excavating (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of iPhones and laptops for Health, Human & Veteran Services (unanimous)

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will consider several land reclassification requests and variance applications for residential and commercial properties. The body will also review a preliminary plat for a commercial storage project and three conditional use permits.

• Reclassification of 6.41 acres to Commercial for Garage Max, LLC in Powers Township
• Preliminary plat for 'Garage Max 371' consisting of 30 lots on 11.2 acres
• Variance request for Quarterdeck Resort for lots between 1.0 and 1.8 acres and individual septic systems
• Conditional use permit for a 40’ X 144’ rental storage unit at 7170 Little Wolf Road NW
• Conditional use permit for a family campground with 2 RV sites at 2305 Birch Park Drive NW

The Planning Commission approved the Garage Max 371 preliminary plat, creating 30 commercial storage lots, by a unanimous 7‑0 vote. It also recommended approval of a 6.41‑acre reclassification to Commercial (7‑0), a 72‑acre reclassification to Rural Residential 2.5 (4‑3), and a 10‑acre reclassification to Rural Residential 10 (7‑0). The commission tabled a 29.5‑acre reclassification request for a site visit (7‑0) and approved the June 9 minutes and the July 14 agenda, each by 7‑0 votes.

• Approved preliminary plat for Garage Max 371 (30 lots) – 7/0
• Recommended approval of 6.41‑acre reclassification to Commercial – 7/0
• Recommended approval of 72‑acre reclassification to Rural Residential 2.5 – 4/3
• Recommended approval of 10‑acre reclassification to Rural Residential 10 – 7/0
• Tabled 29.5‑acre reclassification request for site visit – 7/0
• Approved June 9, 2025 meeting minutes – 7/0
• Approved July 14, 2025 agenda (with schedule discussion) – 7/0

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District will consider funding requests for aquatic invasive species treatment and various cost share applications. The board will also review treasurer reports and professional development opportunities.

• Partnership funds requests from Washburn Lake Association and Norway Lake Association
• Approval of CS507-25 for Heavy Use Protection Area (Crow Wing WBIF Phase 1 funding)
• Payment vouchers for shoreline restoration (CS484-24) and forest stewardship (CS505-25)
• Payment vouchers for soil health tests (CS508-25 and CS509-25)
• MN Soil Health Coalition membership and event sponsorship

The district unanimously approved a series of cost‑share applications, notably CS507‑25 for heavy‑use protection with a $3,000 limit. It also denied two AIS cost‑share requests for chemical treatment of invasive milfoil and pondweed. Membership in the MN Soil Health Coalition was approved, and regular board meetings were moved to 10 a.m. on the August and September dates.

• Denied AIS cost‑share request from Washburn Lake Association for Eurasian watermilfoil (unanimous)
• Denied AIS cost‑share request from Norway Lake Association for curly leaf pondweed (unanimous)
• Approved membership in MN Soil Health Coalition (unanimous)
• Approved CS507‑25 for heavy‑use protection area with Crow Wing WBIF Phase 1 funding at $3,000 maximum (unanimous)
• Approved multiple other cost‑share applications and payment vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer’s report and bank statement (unanimous)
• Moved regular SWCD board meetings on Aug 7 (Backus) and Sep 4 (Walker) to 10 a.m. (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss an emergency declaration and various facility improvements at the Walker Radio Tower and Law Enforcement Center. The meeting includes a review of the Longville Area Subordinate Service District's first quarter report and a procurement option for the Hackensack Shop.

• Resolution for Emergency Declaration
• Amended 2025 Fee Schedule
• Joint Powers Agreement with the City of Hackensack
• Memorandum of Agreement with the City of Backus for recycling bin host site improvements
• Procurement option for Hackensack Shop

The Cass County Board unanimously approved the regular agenda amendment to hear a road‑condition request and the consent agenda, which included auditor warrants totaling $12,326,297.03, multiple liquor license renewals, an ARPA grant of $6,250, and opioid settlement fund allocations of $8,355.43. The Board also approved a Joint Powers Agreement to administer the Sanitary Sewage Treatment System program in Hackensack, authorized purchases for the Sheriff’s Office, and received zoning reclassification applications for further review. A motion to keep gates on a private easement was not seconded, so no action was taken.

• Approved regular agenda amendment to hear road‑condition request (unanimous)
• Approved auditor warrants totaling $12,326,297.03 (unanimous)
• Approved 19 liquor license renewals (unanimous)
• Approved ARPA grant activity $6,250.00 (unanimous)
• Approved opioid settlement fund allocations totaling $8,355.43 (unanimous)
• Approved Joint Powers Agreement for Sanitary Sewage Treatment System program in Hackensack (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of Sheriff's Office evidence‑room shelving $6,957.57 and paper tablet $568.99 (unanimous)
• Received and filed zoning reclassification applications for parcels in Fairview, Leech Lake, and Powers Townships; remanded to Planning Commission (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss public safety initiatives, including the creation of a jail steering committee and the adoption of a comprehensive safety action plan. The board will also review highway department budget amendments and various inter-agency agreements.

• Creation of a Jail Steering Committee
• Adoption of the Cass County Comprehensive Safety Action Plan
• Awarding of roadway striping bid and Contract 60418
• Highway Department budget amendments
• Law enforcement services agreement with Pillager School

The commissioners adopted Resolution 30‑25, approving the LG220 gambling activity permit for the North Country Chapter of Pheasants Forever at Hunts Point Gun Club. They also adopted Resolution 29‑25 designating Auditor‑Treasurer Lisa Shadick as the Identified Official with Authority for the state education system. Additional actions included approving a $326,000 crime‑intervention grant, a $360,806.85 Chippewa National Forest Fund distribution, and remanding a zoning reclassification request from Richard Beach back to the Planning Commission.

• Approved gambling activity permit for North Country Chapter of Pheasants Forever (Resolution 30‑25) – 5‑0 vote
• Designated Auditor‑Treasurer Lisa Shadick as Identified Official with Authority (Resolution 29‑25) – 5‑0 vote
• Approved $326,000 Community Crime Intervention and Prevention grant application
• Approved distribution of Chippewa National Forest Fund payment $360,806.85
• Approved law enforcement services agreement with Pillager School, up to $61,628
• Approved zoning reclassification application from Dawn Holmberg (PID 24‑132‑3300)
• Remanded Richard Beach zoning reclassification request (PID 03‑020‑4300) back to Planning Commission – unanimous
• Authorized health purchase of workstation parts and standing desks not to exceed $1,236.62

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Cass County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will consider several land-use requests. The body will review applications for zoning reclassifications, conditional use permits, and variances for residential and commercial structures.

• Proposal for a 41-site seasonal RV park at 5719 Howard Lake Road NW
• Reclassification of 82.37 acres at 6482 120th street SW from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 20
• Reclassification of approximately 29.5 acres in Becker Township from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 20
• Conditional use permit for a veterinary clinic at 7072 112th Street SW
• Conditional use permit for a triplex apartment building south of 3469 Front Street SW

The commission approved the reclassification of an 82.37‑acre parcel from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 20 by a 7‑0 vote. It denied a similar reclassification request for about 29.5 acres by a 5‑2 vote. The board also approved a variance amendment removing a garage‑removal condition (7‑0) and denied a conditional‑use amendment for a partial fence (3‑4). A variance for a remodel and new garage near Hand Lake was approved by a 7‑0 vote.

• Approved reclassification of 82.37 acres (Holmberg) to Rural Residential 20 (7‑0)
• Denied reclassification of ~29.5 acres (Beach) to Rural Residential 20 (5‑2)
• Approved variance amendment VP24-139-30-3 removing garage‑removal requirement (7‑0)
• Denied CUP amendment CU25-137-29-1 to allow partial fence (3‑4)
• Approved variance for Timothy Beiseker remodel and garage near Hand Lake (7‑0)

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District will vote on several grant agreements and payment vouchers for conservation projects. The board is also reviewing funding for lake surveys and watershed implementation agreements with other districts.

• Grant agreement with USDA Forest Service for Girl Lake Outlet Modification
• CS497-25 for City of Walker culvert upgrade for Lake May Outlet
• Payment voucher CS483-24 for $795.00
• Fiscal agent agreements with Crow Wing SWCD and Hubbard SWCD
• AIS fund requests from Wabedo Little Boy Cooper Rice Lake Association and Roosevelet and Lawrence Area Lakes Association

The Cass Soil & Water Conservation District approved its agenda and consent agenda, authorized several AIS fund requests ($170 and $1,840), and adopted a series of watershed funding agreements and grant contracts, including a USDA Forest Service grant for the Girl Lake Outlet Modification. Members also voted not to join the Minnesota Conservation Volunteer program, approved an increase in SFA membership fees, and set the July board meeting date.

• Approved agenda with additions (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved AIS fund request $170.00 from Wabedo Little Boy Cooper Rice Lake Association (unanimous)
• Approved AIS fund request $1,840.00 for Roosevelt and Lawrence Area Lakes Association (unanimous)
• Approved grant agreement with USDA Forest Service Region 9 for Girl Lake Outlet Modification (unanimous)
• Approved SFA membership fee increase from $150.00 to $240.00 (unanimous)
• Approved prevailing wage exemption resolution (unanimous)
• Approved move of July SWCD board meeting to July 2, 2025 at 10 am in Walker (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will conduct a public hearing regarding the Capital Improvement Plan. The meeting includes discussions on land acquisition support for the Minnesota DNR and the potential revocation of roads to Otter Tail Peninsula Township.

• Public hearing on Capital Improvement Plan
• Resolution 26-25 supporting Minnesota DNR land acquisition via RIM funding
• Proposed public hearing to revocate roads to Otter Tail Peninsula Township
• Highway Department flooring replacement and Sheriffs Office generator fuel tank and supply line projects
• Awarding of mowing, brushing, and forest road improvement contracts

The Cass County Board unanimously approved an Employee Appreciation Day ice‑cream social and the consent agenda, which included auditor warrants and liquor licenses. By majority vote the board adopted Resolution 27‑25, approving three gambling permits for Hunts Point Gun Club, Loaded Loon Bar & Grill, and Sandtrap Golf Course. The board also approved a $16,990 capital‑fund expense for survey equipment and allocated opioid settlement funds of $451.23 and $10,065.90. Several trail‑mowing, brushing and hay‑stumpage contracts were awarded to local contractors.

• Approved Employee Appreciation Day Ice Cream Social (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda items including auditor warrants and liquor licenses (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 27‑25 approving three gambling permits (5‑0 majority)
• Approved 2025 Capital Fund expense for survey equipment $16,990 (unanimous)
• Approved Opioid Settlement Funds: Northwoods Church $451.23, Leech Lake Health & Safety $10,065.90 (unanimous)
• Awarded trail‑mowing contracts to Mutch's Forestry ($2,424, $4,372, $1,209, $1,629) and Schrupp Excavating ($1,000) (unanimous)
• Awarded brushing contracts to Schrupp Excavating for multiple trails totaling $11,000 (unanimous)
• Awarded Hay Stumpage permits to Larry Converse $25, Levi Kuschel $30, Terry Mejdrich $25 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will hold two public hearings: one on repealing the moratorium on electronic and digital signs via Ordinance 2025-02, and another on exchanging and revoking roads within Powers Township. The board will also consider routine approvals like meeting minutes, liquor licenses, and fund activities, alongside reports on opioid settlement funds and the county’s 2024 financial update.

• Public hearing to repeal moratorium on electronic/digital signs (Ordinance 2025-02)
• Public hearing for road exchange and revocation in Powers Township
• Approve agreement with Pine River-Backus School District and Cass County Transportation
• Approve contract addendum for Cass County Septic Inspector
• Approve 2024 financial update and fund balance management

The Cass County Board unanimously approved the regular and consent agendas. It adopted Resolution 24-25, approving five gambling permits and a new on‑sale liquor license for Little Wolf Resort. The board also adopted Resolution 22-25 to support a Sourcewell community‑impact grant and repealed the moratorium on electronic and digital signs. All votes were unanimous except the gambling and grant resolutions, which passed with all present commissioners voting aye.

• Approved regular agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items, including auditor warrants totaling $1,226,221.11 (unanimous)
• Approved on‑sale intoxicating liquor license for Little Wolf Resort (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 24-25 approving five gambling permits (ayes: Lilyquist, Haaland, Kangas, Bruns; absent: Gaalswyk)
• Approved 2025 Capital Fund expenses: Dell server replacements $28,554.52 and Krause Anderson assessments $26,000.00 (unanimous)
• Approved ARPA grant payments: Advanced Correctional Healthcare $4,155.08, Mary Mapes $6,250.00 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 22-25 supporting Sourcewell Region V Children’s Mental Health grant (ayes: Lilyquist, Haaland, Kangas, Bruns; absent: Gaalswyk)
• Repealed moratorium on electronic and digital signs by adopting Ordinance 2025‑02 (unanimous)

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Cass County Planning Commission will hear four reclassification requests, seven variance applications, one conditional use permit, and one administrative appeal. Field inspections were conducted on May 5, and the board will vote on recommendations at the May 12 meeting.

• Reclassification of 29.5 acres in Becker Township from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 2.5 (Beach)
• Reclassification of 19.32 acres in Remer Township from Rural Residential 2.5 to Commercial C-1 (Holker)
• Variance to construct a residential structure within the bluff on a riparian lot on Gull Lake (Braget)
• Conditional use permit to move and sell a pile of sand exceeding 1,000 cubic yards in Fairview Township (Laporte)
• Appeal of a restoration order for vegetation removal outside the 20-foot shoreland recreation corridor on Sugar Lake (Gibson)

The Planning Commission approved the minutes and agenda for the May 12 meeting by a 6‑0 vote. It tabled the Beach reclassification request for 29.5 acres in Becker Township. It approved two reclassification applications: 19.32 acres at 6565 State 200 NE from Rural Residential 2.5 to Commercial (C‑1), and 40.07 acres at 1706 44th Street SW from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 10, each by a 6‑0 vote. The commission also approved a variance for a residential structure on a riparian lot at 1467 Ossego Road SW on Gull Lake, also by a 6‑0 vote.

• Approved April 14 minutes (6‑0)
• Approved May 12 agenda (6‑0)
• Tabled reclassification of 29.5 acres in Becker Township (6‑0)
• Approved reclassification of 19.32 acres at 6565 State 200 NE to Commercial (C‑1) (6‑0)
• Approved reclassification of 40.07 acres at 1706 44th Street SW to Rural Residential 10 (6‑0)
• Tabled reclassification of 82.37 acres in May Township (6‑0)
• Approved variance for residential structure on 1467 Ossego Road SW, Gull Lake (6‑0)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board will review the preliminary capital improvement plan and potential 2026 levy impacts, alongside establishing a public hearing to repeal a moratorium on electronic and digital signs. Several contract awards, including bridge design contracts, and numerous consent agenda items covering personnel, financial approvals, and reclassification requests are also scheduled.

• Preliminary Capital Improvement Plan and 2026 potential levy impacts
• Public hearing to adopt Ordinance 2025-02 repealing moratorium on electronic/digital signs
• Award bridge design contracts to Houston Engineering and Erickson Engineering
• Approve an increase to the county's overall credit card limit
• Approve extension of spring load restrictions

The Cass County Board unanimously approved the regular agenda and the consent agenda. It adopted a resolution approving the LG220 gambling permit for the Bemidji Lady Ducks (5‑0 vote) and increased the County’s overall credit‑card limit from $50,000 to $95,000. Several zoning reclassifications and a joint powers agreement with the Minnesota DNR were also approved.

• Approved Regular Agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Approved LG220 gambling permit for Bemidji Lady Ducks (5-0)
• Approved increase of County credit‑card limit to $95,000
• Approved zoning reclassification for Dexter Development, LLC parcel in Leech Lake Township
• Approved zoning reclassification for Calvary Evangelical Free Church parcels in Shingobee Township
• Approved zoning reclassification for Brian Shermock parcels in Trelipe Township
• Approved joint powers agreement with Minnesota DNR Division of Wildlife (effective May 6, 2025)

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District meets to approve consent agenda items (bills, treasurer report, grant tracking, minutes, payment vouchers) and discuss several funding requests. Notable items include Leech Lake Association's requests for 75% algae sampling funding and for diver-assisted suction harvesting of starry stonewort, a grant agreement with The Nature Conservancy, and the Pine River Watershed midpoint review with public comment period. The board will also consider cost-share applications and contract amendments, including a $825 payment voucher from Pine River WBIF Phase 3 funding.

• Leech Lake Association request for 75% funding for algae sampling (item 9.a)
• Leech Lake Association request for diver-assisted suction harvesting of starry stonewort in Leech Lake harbor (item 9.b)
• For approval: Cass SWCD grant agreement with The Nature Conservancy (item 12.i)
• Pine River Watershed midpoint review and public comment period (item 12.k)
• For approval payment voucher CS485-25 for $825 from Pine River WBIF Phase 3 funding (item 13.a)

The Cass Soil & Water Conservation District approved several funding requests and service agreements. Items approved included algae sampling ($1,582.00), Diver Assisted Suction Harvesting ($4,418.00), a grant agreement with the Nature Conservancy, and a $400 workshop funding request. Additional approvals covered a $670 advertising package, a $825 payment voucher, and an amendment to extend a contract.

• Approved $1,582.00 algae sampling funding (4-0-1)
• Approved $4,418.00 Diver Assisted Suction Harvesting funding (unanimous)
• Approved grant agreement with the Nature Conservancy (unanimous)
• Approved $400 SFA Crow Wing Forage Council workshop funding (unanimous)
• Approved $670 KAXE Premier Programming advertising package (4-0-1)
• Approved $825 payment voucher CS485-25 (unanimous)
• Approved amendment A2025-07 to extend contract CS457-24 (1-0-1)
• Approved Crow Wing River Watershed Agreement for Services (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board will discuss supporting a revolving loan fund for community property development in Pine River, receive a report from the Opioid Settlement Committee, and consider approving general fund budget amendments for the 4th quarter. Highway department items include establishing a public hearing to revocate a segment of CR 117 to Powers Township and approving a floor plan for a new Hackensack highway shop. The consent agenda covers personnel items, licenses, opioid settlement funds activity, and a letter opposing cuts to Payment in Lieu of Taxes.

• Support revolving loan fund for community property development in Pine River
• Establish public hearing to revocate a segment of CR 117 to Powers Township
• Approve floor plan for new Hackensack highway shop
• Approve general fund 4th quarter budget amendments
• Approve opposition letter to proposed cuts to Payment in Lieu of Taxes

The Cass County Board approved its regular agenda and consent agenda unanimously. It adopted Resolution 17‑25 establishing the 2025 bridge replacement priority list and Resolution 18‑25 authorizing the updated Hazard Mitigation Plan and a sub‑grant agreement. The Board also unanimously approved a $200,000 revolving‑loan fund for a Pine River apartment conversion, a $79,748 boat safety grant, and $243,075 library funding, along with several demolition and grading contracts.

• Approved regular agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items including auditor warrants, appointments, licenses, ARPA grant, opioid settlement funds, UKG contract renewal, affordable housing grant, assessor abatements, travel, opposition letter (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 17‑25 establishing bridge replacement priority list (4‑0, Haaland absent)
• Adopted Resolution 18‑25 authorizing updated hazard mitigation plan and sub‑grant agreement (4‑0, Haaland absent)
• Approved $200,000 revolving‑loan fund for Pine River Apartments project (unanimous)
• Approved Boat and Water Safety Grant contract for $79,748 (unanimous)
• Authorized $243,075 budget support for Kitchigami Regional Library (unanimous)
• Approved demolition contracts: $22,800 to Storlie Construction, $1,845 to DeChantal Excavating, $785 to DeChantal Excavating (unanimous); approved grading contracts totaling $... (unanimous)

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Cass County Planning Commission will consider reclassification, variance, conditional use permit, and environmental review applications on April 14. Key items include a 41-site RV park requiring an Environmental Assessment Worksheet, conversion of a motel to long-term housing, and two new gravel pits proposed by the Highway Department. Field inspections will occur on April 7.

• Environmental Assessment Worksheet review for Northern Waters RV Park (41 sites) on 16.53 acres in Shingobee Township
• Conditional use permit to convert Pine River Inn motel to long-term residential housing in Wilson Township
• Two conditional use permits for new gravel pits: 15 acres in Walden Township and 39 acres in Pine River Township
• Reclassification of 30.53 acres from Rural Residential 5 to 2.5 in Leech Lake Township (Dexter Development)

The commission approved the March 10 minutes and the April 14 agenda unanimously (6‑0 each). It recommended approval of three land‑use reclassifications: 30.53 acres from Rural Residential 5 to Rural Residential 2.5, 188.30 acres from Rural Residential 2.5 to Agricultural Forestry, and several parcels from Shoreland Residential/Rural Residential 2.5 to Commercial. The commission also approved a variance allowing a roof reorientation on a Pleasant Lake property (6‑0).

• Approved March 10, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Approved April 14, 2025 agenda (6-0)
• Recommended approval of 30.53‑acre reclassification to Rural Residential 2.5 (6-0)
• Recommended approval of 188.30‑acre reclassification to Agricultural Forestry (6-0)
• Recommended approval of parcel reclassification to Commercial (6-0)
• Approved variance for roof reorientation on Pleasant Lake property (6-0)

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District will consider resolutions accepting Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) delegation from the cities of Cass Lake, Federal Dam, and Pine River, as well as approving a Waterguards watercraft inspection services agreement for aquatic invasive species prevention. Other business includes approving contracts, cost-share applications, and routine financial reports.

• Resolutions R21-2025, R22-2025, and R23-2025 to accept WCA delegation from Cass Lake, Federal Dam, and Pine River
• Waterguards Watercraft Inspections Services Agreement for AIS control
• Contract with Hubbard SWCD for DNR Priority Lakes Forestry Implementation Fund
• Approval of CS486-25 payment voucher ($??) and other cost-share vouchers (CS488-25, CS493-25 at $2,683.61 + $316.39)
• $300 donation for Envirothon support and temporary access agreement for Girl Lake Rock Arch Rapids

The Cass Soil & Water Conservation District unanimously approved several contracts, cost‑share agreements, and resolutions, including a livestock pipeline grant and a soil health grant. A request for $2,175 chemical‑treatment assistance from RALALA was denied after a split vote. All other items on the agenda passed without opposition.

• Approved WaterGuards Inspection Services Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Townline AIS 50% cost share up to $1,260 (unanimous)
• Denied RALALA chemical‑treatment funding request up to $2,175 (split vote)
• Approved contract with Hubbard SWCD for DNR Priority Lakes Forestry Fund (unanimous)
• Approved resolutions accepting WCA delegations from Cass Lake, Federal Dam, and Pine River (unanimous)
• Approved MASWCD Area VIII dues (unanimous)
• Approved $300 donation for Envirothon support (unanimous)
• Approved CS493-25 livestock pipeline grant $2,683.61 and Soil Health Delivery Grant $316.39 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board will hold a public hearing on the second reading of Land Use Ordinance 2025-01, which revises Section 1111 regarding signs. They will also receive a community briefing from Camp Ripley, discuss a special election for State Senate District 6, and consider several contracts including a pavement management software agreement and bituminous crack sealing bid. Numerous consent agenda items cover personnel, licenses, easements, donations, and contract awards.

• Public hearing on second reading of Cass County Land Use Ordinance 2025-01, Section 1111 Signs
• Special election for State Senate District 6
• 2025 Community Briefing from Camp Ripley
• Approve Services Agreement with USI
• Award C.M. 2025-04 Bituminous Crack Sealing bid

The Cass County Board unanimously approved the regular meeting agenda and the consent agenda. It adopted Resolution 15‑25, approving the Outing Gun Club gambling license with a 5‑0 vote. The Board also authorized the sale of parcel 83‑337‑2451 to the City of Bena, approved a $20,000 services agreement with USI to market the 2026 medical plan, and approved several contracts and donations.

• Approved regular meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items (unanimous)
• Approved Outing Gun Club gambling license (5-0)
• Authorized sale of parcel 83-337-2451 to City of Bena for $3,480.89
• Approved USI services agreement for $20,000 (unanimous)
• Awarded well‑sealing contract to Northern Wells and Services for $5,550.00
• Awarded Cass County septic inspection contract to April Thompson at $190 per inspection
• Accepted donation of $300 from Pine Lake Township for Lakes Area Dive Team

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss a revolving loan fund for community property development in Cass Lake and receive a community briefing from Camp Ripley. The meeting includes decisions on attorney rates, legal agreements, and various county personnel and procurement items.

• Support for Revolving Loan Fund for Community Property Development in Cass Lake
• Court Appointed Attorney Rate Increase
• Purchase of MnDOT Ah-Gwah-Ching signs on TH 371
• Title IV-E Administrative Agreement for Parent Legal Representation
• Cass County Tax Forfeit Lands Bat Conservation Plan

The board unanimously approved increasing the court-appointed attorney rate from $75 to $125 per hour, effective April 1, 2025, and approved a Title IV-E agreement to seek reimbursement for parent legal representation. They also denied a request from Mark and Barb Anderson to intervene in a variance matter, citing lack of authority. The consent agenda was approved, including warrants, personnel actions, and a gambling license resolution.

• Approved court-appointed attorney rate increase to $125/hour (unanimous)
• Approved Title IV-E Administrative Agreement for Parent Legal Representation (unanimous)
• Denied Anderson request for Board intervention in variance matter (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including warrants totaling over $1.7 million (unanimous, Bruns abstained)
• Adopted Resolution 14-25 for Young at Heart Club excluded bingo license (majority, Bruns abstained)
• Supported $150,000 Revolving Loan Fund application for Cass Lake development (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of two MnDOT signs for Ah-Gwah-Ching Road for $4,988 (unanimous)
• Received and filed 2025 Probation Annual Report

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Cass County Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting on March 10, 2025, to decide on reclassifications, variances, conditional use permits, and a first reading of digital/electronic sign regulations. The most substantial item is the review of the Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) for a proposed 41-site seasonal RV park (Northern Waters RV Park) to determine if an Environmental Impact Statement is needed.

• Reclassification of 4.46 acres (Bruns) from Rural Residential 5 to Rural Residential 1 at 7625 64th Avenue NW, Shingobee Township
• Reclassification of 39.73 acres (Sorenson) from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 2.5 at 886 28th Avenue SW, Pine River Township
• After-the-fact variance (Andresen) for retaining walls, deck, and pergola within a bluff on Roosevelt Lake at 6589 Andresen Bay Drive NE, Crooked Lake Township
• Variance (Diede) for second-story garage addition with 882 sq ft living quarters on Leech Lake at 6896 North View Drive NW, Pine Lake Township
• Conditional Use Permit (Scull) for an automotive shop doing light vehicle maintenance at 9727 County 1 SW, Fairview Township

The Cass County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment met on March 10, 2025, and voted 6-0 to recommend approval of two land reclassifications: 4.46 acres in Shingobee Township (Rural Residential 2.5 to Rural Residential 1) and 39.73 acres in Pine River Township (Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 2.5). The board approved a variance for a second-story garage addition on a riparian Leech Lake lot in Pine Lake Township and a conditional use permit for an automotive shop in Fairview Township, both 6-0. Two variance applications were tabled at the applicants' request, and a decision on whether an Environmental Impact Statement is needed for a proposed RV park was postponed to April 14, 2025.

• Recommended approval of 4.46-acre reclassification from Rural Residential 2.5 to Rural Residential 1 in Shingobee Township (6-0)
• Recommended approval of 39.73-acre reclassification from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 2.5 in Pine River Township (6-0)
• Tabled after-the-fact variance for retaining walls, deck, and pergola on Roosevelt Lake in Crooked Lake Township (6-0)
• Approved variance for second-story garage addition with 720 sq ft living quarters on Leech Lake in Pine Lake Township (6-0)
• Tabled variance for residential expansion on Girl Lake in Kego Township (6-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for automotive shop in Fairview Township (6-0)
• Approved digital/electronic sign ordinance amendments to forward to County Board (6-0)
• Postponed decision on need for Environmental Impact Statement for Northern Waters RV Park until April 14, 2025 (6-0)

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass County Soil and Water Conservation District will discuss and vote on several funding requests, including cost-share agreements for aquatic plant surveys and invasive species treatment, and a financial contribution for the Girl Lake Outlet Project. The board will also consider resolutions to accept Wetland Conservation Act delegations from three cities and to apply as a Minnesota Green Corps host site. Consent agenda items include paying bills, approving minutes, and receiving reports.

• $10,000 contribution for Girl Lake Outlet Project
• Funds request for 50% cost-share on Washburn Lake aquatic plant survey ($2,750) and additional inspection hours ($3,277.50)
• Funds request for Roosevelt and Lawrence lakes aquatic plant survey ($3,170) and Eurasian watermilfoil treatment ($6,175)
• Resolutions to accept WCA delegation from Motley, Lake Shore, and Chickamaw Beach
• Resolution to apply as a Minnesota Green Corps host site

The board approved several AIS cost-share and aquatic plant survey funding requests, including a split-vote approval for Washburn Lake Association inspector hours. It also approved 2025 memberships, fair ads, and resolutions accepting Wetland Conservation Act delegations from three cities, plus a $10,000 contribution to the Girl Lake Outlet Project. A request for 10% chemical treatment cost-share for Eurasian Watermilfoil in Roosevelt Lake was tabled unanimously.

• Approved Washburn Lake Association aquatic plant survey at 50% up to $2,750
• Approved Washburn Lake Association AIS cost share for inspector hours up to $3,250 (split vote 3-2)
• Approved RALALA aquatic plant survey for Roosevelt and Lawrence Lakes at 50% up to $3,170
• Approved RALALA AIS cost share for Eurasian Watermilfoil survey for Smokey Hollow and Leavitt Lakes up to $655
• Tabled request for 10% chemical treatment cost-share for Roosevelt Lake Eurasian Watermilfoil
• Approved 2025 SWCD Forestry Association and Minnesota Wetland Professionals Association memberships
• Approved Pine River Fair quarter-page ad and Pillager Fair half-page ad
• Approved resolutions R17-2025, R18-2025, R19-2025 accepting WCA delegations from Motley, Lake Shore, and Chickamaw Beach; R20-2025 to apply as Green Corps Host Site; and $10,000 for Girl Lake Outlet Project

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will consider approving the use of opioid settlement funds via consent agenda, along with other routine decisions such as land sales and contract renewals. A report from the opioid settlement committee will also be received. The board will establish its summer meeting schedule and approve a carpet replacement at Deep Portage.

• Approve Deep Portage carpet replacement
• Approve services agreement with Deckard Technologies, Inc.
• Approve additional land sale parcels and receive minimum bid prices
• Approve railroad agreements BF-20553738 (CSAH 36) and BF-20552075 (CSAH 1 Pillager)
• Approve opioid settlement funds activity, UKG contract renewal, and multi-factor authentication project (consent agenda)

The Cass County Board approved a services agreement with Deckard Technologies, Inc. as the short-term rental vendor for $19,700, with a 5-2 vote (Lilyquist and Kangas dissenting). The board also approved two railroad agreements with BNSF for approach work on CSAH 1 and CSAH 36, and authorized the sale of two tax-forfeited parcels. Additionally, the board approved Round 2 of the Opioid Grant applications with an estimated $250,000 in funding.

• Approved $19,700 services agreement with Deckard Technologies for short-term rental vendor (5-2)
• Approved BNSF agreement for CSAH 1 approach work, estimated $86,400
• Approved BNSF agreement for CSAH 36 approach work, estimated $36,000
• Adopted Resolution 13-25 authorizing sale of two tax-forfeited parcels
• Approved Round 2 Opioid Grant applications with estimated $250,000 funding
• Approved Deep Portage carpet replacement to Kensack Karpets for $45,443.20
• Approved consent agenda including warrants totaling over $2.2 million
• Approved 2025 summer meeting schedule

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board will consider denying the City of Hackensack's request to participate in a proposed property tax abatement. Commissioners will also hold a public hearing on the updated 2025 fee schedule, and decide on a DNR land acquisition for an aquatic management area. Several consent agenda items include personnel changes, license approvals, and cannabis retailer delegation resolutions.

• Approve letter denying Hackensack's property tax abatement request
• Public hearing on updated 2025 fee schedule
• Approve DNR land acquisition for aquatic management area
• Approve MOA for Upper Mississippi Grand Rapids Watershed and funding workplan
• Receive opioid settlement committee report and approve opioid settlement funds activity

The Cass County Board of Commissioners approved the updated 2025 Fee Schedule, including a $200 per ton out-of-county recycling fee effective May 1, 2025, and adopted a resolution supporting the DNR's acquisition of 8.8 acres on Wabedo Lake for an Aquatic Management Area. They also approved a $26,000 facility condition assessment with Kraus-Anderson, a $23,158 opioid settlement grant to Northern Minnesota Addiction Wellness Center, and denied Hackensack's request for a property tax abatement. The board received the Sheriff's 2024 annual report and the Longville Ambulance 4th quarter report as information.

• Approved updated 2025 Fee Schedule (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 11-25 supporting DNR land acquisition on Wabedo Lake (unanimous)
• Awarded Facility Condition Assessment to Kraus-Anderson for $26,000 (unanimous)
• Approved $23,158 opioid settlement grant to Northern Minnesota Addiction Wellness Center (unanimous)
• Denied City of Hackensack request to participate in property tax abatement (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including warrants totaling over $2.5 million (unanimous)
• Approved gambling license for Backus American Legion Post 368 (unanimous)
• Approved MOA for Upper Mississippi Grand Rapids Watershed (unanimous)

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Cass County Planning Commission will meet on February 10, 2025, to decide on one reclassification, several variance applications for lakeside structures, and one conditional use permit for adding material washing to an existing granite quarry. They will also acknowledge a 30-day decision waiver for an Environmental Assessment Worksheet for the Northern Waters RV Park.

• Conditional use permit for granite quarry material washing and retention pond at 8260 116th Street SW, Becker Township
• Reclassification of 3.00-acre building site from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 2.5 at 8719 State 64 SW, Byron Township
• After-the-fact variance to amend conditions for rebuild on Gull Lake at 9690 County 77 SW, Fairview Township
• Variance for lakeside deck addition at 26-foot setback on Hand Lake at 524 Shady Shores Lane NW, Ponto Lake Township
• 30-day decision waiver acknowledgement for Northern Waters RV Park EAW

The Cass County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved a conditional use permit for material washing at an existing granite quarry in Becker Township, along with several shoreland variances for lakeside additions and decks. The board denied an after-the-fact variance for a Gull Lake property, finding the applicant violated original variance conditions by removing most of the structure within the bluff impact zone. One reclassification for a building site in Byron Township was also recommended for approval.

• Approved CUP for material washing at granite quarry, Becker Twp (7-0)
• Denied after-the-fact variance for Gull Lake bluff rebuild, Fairview Twp (5-1, LaPorte dissenting, Rafferty abstaining)
• Approved after-the-fact variance for accessory structure setback, Shingobee Twp (7-0)
• Approved variance for deck-to-porch conversion, Ponto Lake Twp (7-0)
• Approved variance for lakeside deck, Ponto Lake Twp (7-0)
• Approved variance for home addition near bluff, Crooked Lake Twp (7-0)
• Approved variance for home additions, Wabedo Twp (7-0)
• Approved variance for second story addition, Turtle Lake Twp (6-1, Rafferty dissenting)

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District will review its 2025 annual plan and operating policies. The board is deciding on accepting Wetland Conservation Act administration delegations from several cities and approving various service agreements.

• Resolutions to accept Wetland Conservation Act administration for the cities of Pillager, Backus, Bena, and East Gull Lake
• Approval of the Cass SWCD Annual Plan and Operating Policies
• Contract with Moore Engineering for the City of Remer stormwater assessment
• Payment voucher CS474-24 for 3 well decommissionings
• Payment voucher CS473-24 for a 35-acre forest stewardship plan

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District approved its annual plan, policies, audit services, and several agreements including wetland conservation delegations from five cities and a stormwater assessment contract. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Cass SWCD Policies (unanimous)
• Approved Cass SWCD Annual Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Peterson Audit Services for 2024 Audit (unanimous)
• Approved reinvestment of CD maturing 2/11/25 (unanimous)
• Approved resolution accepting City of Pillager Wetland Conservation Act delegation (unanimous)
• Approved SFA Membership for $240 (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 MACDE Membership for four staff for $100 (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Moore Engineering for Remer Stormwater Assessment, not to exceed $20,000 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The board will consider adopting a resolution to establish an initial business plan for the Walker Ambulance Primary Service Area Special Taxing District and appoint three commissioners to its board. They will also approve the 2025 fee schedule, consider a land donation from Northern Waters Land Trust, and approve final payment for highway contract No. 24001. A large consent agenda includes items such as personnel changes, contracts with Morris Electronics and MCIS, grant applications, and acceptance of donations.

• Adopt resolution to establish business plan for Walker Ambulance Primary Service Area Special Taxing District
• Appoint three Cass County commissioners to serve on the Walker Ambulance Special Taxing District board
• Approve 2025 fee schedule
• Land donation from Northern Waters Land Trust
• Approve final payment for Contract No. 24001

The board adopted Resolution 09-25 establishing the initial business plan for the Walker Ambulance Primary Service Area Special Taxing District, a joint effort with Hubbard County to continue ambulance service. It also appointed Commissioners Lilyquist, Haaland, and Bruns to serve on the new district board. The board set the out-of-county recycling fee at $200/ton effective May 1, 2025, and scheduled a public hearing for the updated fee schedule.

• Adopted Resolution 09-25 establishing Walker Ambulance Special Taxing District business plan (unanimous)
• Appointed Commissioners Lilyquist, Haaland, Bruns to Special Taxing District Board (unanimous)
• Set out-of-county recycling fee at $200/ton effective May 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including warrants totaling over $3 million and various contracts (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 08-25 approving 2025 Bridge Replacement Priority List (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 07-25 accepting land donation from Northern Waters Land Trust (unanimous)
• Approved final payment of $498,785.60 for Contract No. 24001 aggregate surfacing (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Cass County Newsletter for distribution with tax statements (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will hold two public hearings: one to establish a special taxing district for the Walker Ambulance Primary Service Area and another for the fifth reading of the Short-Term Rental Ordinance 2024-04. The board will also approve routine items like meeting minutes, warrants, and personnel actions, along with several budget supports for local organizations.

• Public hearing to establish a special taxing district for Walker Ambulance Primary Service Area
• Fifth reading of the Cass County Short-Term Rental Ordinance 2024-04
• Approve Highway Right of Way Plat No. 7 - CSAH 22
• Approve agreement with Savi Solutions, PBC
• Authorize 2025 budget support for Cass County Agricultural Association

The board unanimously adopted Resolution 05-25 establishing a special taxing district for the Walker Ambulance Primary Service Area, allowing Cass and Hubbard Counties to take over ambulance service licensing and levy taxes. The board also unanimously approved the final adoption of the Short-Term Rental Ordinance 2024-04 after a public hearing, with Commissioner Lilyquist voting no. Several administrative items were approved via the consent agenda.

• Adopted Resolution 05-25 establishing special taxing district for Walker Ambulance PSA (unanimous)
• Adopted Short-Term Rental Ordinance 2024-04 (4-1, Lilyquist nay)
• Approved consent agenda including warrants totaling over $2.6 million
• Approved Highway Right of Way Plat No. 7 for CSAH 22 (unanimous)
• Approved zoning reclassification for parcel in Walden Township
• Approved 2025 Legal Fee Agreement with Quinlivan & Hughes P.A.
• Approved election services agreement with Pine River-Backus ISD #2174
• Approved $454,753.63 to SWCD for Aquatic Invasive Species funds

Planning Commission & Board of Adjustment

The Cass County Planning Commission will meet on January 13, 2025, to act on a final plat for the 21-lot Walker Woods residential subdivision, three variance requests for lakeside structures on Woman Lake and Big Deep Lake, and a reclassification of a building site. The commission will also hold a public comment session on an Environmental Assessment Worksheet for a proposed 41-site seasonal RV park (Northern Waters RV Park) and hear an appeal of a stop-work order.

• Final plat approval for 'Walker Woods' – 21 lots on 39.9 acres zoned Rural Residential 1 in Shingobee Township.
• Variance for Alan Duttlinger: 10'x26' lakeside deck at 62-foot setback from Woman Lake (75-foot required).
• Variance for Rolf Helland: replace existing home with 28'x50' structure and deck within bluff at 72-foot setback from Woman Lake.
• Variance for Lynn VanAllen: 32'x34' addition with lakeside deck within bluff on Big Deep Lake riparian lot.
• Public comment session on Environmental Assessment Worksheet for Northern Waters RV Park (41 sites) on Howard Lake Road.

The Cass County Planning Commission approved the Walker Woods final plat, a 21-lot residential subdivision in Shingobee Township, by a unanimous 7-0 vote. Three lakefront variances were also approved, including one for a deck on Woman Lake that passed 5-2. The commission tabled a reclassification request, then later recommended approval, and partially lifted a stop-work order on a Gull Lake property while upholding the order for most construction.

• Approved Walker Woods final plat, 21 residential lots in Shingobee Township (7-0)
• Approved Duttlinger variance for 10'x26' lakeside deck at 62-foot setback from Woman Lake (5-2)
• Tabled Lamont Peterson reclassification, then recommended approval of 5-acre site reclassify from Agricultural Forestry to Rural Residential 5 (7-0)
• Approved Helland variance to replace structure with 28'x50' home and deck within bluff at 75-foot setback from Woman Lake (7-0)
• Approved VanAllen variance for 32'x34' addition with 10'x34' deck within bluff on Big Deep Lake (7-0)
• Denied motion to fully remove stop-work order on Anderson property (3-4)
• Partially removed stop-work order on Anderson property to allow retaining wall installation and adopted definitions for addition, rebuild, tear down, remodel (7-0)

County Commissioners

The Cass County Board will reorganize for 2025, including swearing in new commissioners and electing a chair and vice chair. A public hearing is set for the fourth reading of the Short-Term Rental Ordinance 2024-04. The board will also receive updates on the Immanuel Lutheran Church school expansion, the 2024 AIS report and 2025 budget, and the opioid settlement committee. Numerous consent agenda items include approval of the 2025 fee schedule, contracts, and several cannabis retailer registration delegations.

• Public hearing on 4th reading of Short-Term Rental Ordinance 2024-04
• Board reorganization with election of chair and vice chair
• Report back from Opioid Settlement Committee
• Adopt 2025 fee schedule and standard mileage rate
• Receive and file cannabis retailer registration delegations from three townships

The board approved the 4th reading of the Short-Term Rental Ordinance 2024-04, with amendments removing certain zoning districts and updating the fee schedule, and scheduled a final public hearing for January 21, 2025. The board also approved the 2025 AIS budget, opioid settlement grants, and various administrative items.

• Approved 4th reading of Short-Term Rental Ordinance 2024-04 (4-1, Lilyquist nay)
• Approved 2025 AIS budget of $551,254.63 (unanimous)
• Approved opioid settlement grants: LLBO DPS $50,000, Northern MN Addiction Wellness Center $50,000, Family Safety Network $15,000, LLBO Addictions & Dependency $43,973 (unanimous)
• Extended Cass County Detention Center MOUD unexpended balance through Dec 31, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adopted 2025 Board Business Rules (Resolution 01-25) (unanimous)
• Adopted 2025 Printing and Publishing bids (Resolution 02-25) (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Committee Appointments (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including warrants totaling $6.7M (unanimous)

Soil and Water Conservation District

The Cass Soil and Water Conservation District will administer oaths of office, approve a consent agenda of bills and reports, and receive updates from partner agencies. The board will then decide on organizational matters including supervisor compensation at $125 per meeting, the 2025 IRS mileage rate, a PERA defined contribution plan for elected officials, and committee assignments. They will also consider a resolution to accept the Wetland Conservation Act delegation from the City of Walker and review a cost-share application for shoreline restoration.

• Set supervisor compensation at $125 per meeting and adopt 2025 IRS mileage rate
• Consider PERA Defined Contribution Plan for elected officials
• Accept Wetland Conservation Act delegation from the City of Walker
• Approve $275 registration for the North Country Resort Buying Show
• Review cost-share application CS484-24 for shoreline restoration from Pine River WBIF

The Cass SWCD board approved the agenda and consent agenda, then passed several organizational motions, including setting meeting dates, supervisor compensation, and check signing authority. They also approved a $200 trade show registration, a contract for rock arch rapids oversight, and a shoreline restoration cost-share application. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved agenda with additions (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved $200 registration for Leech Lake Chamber North Country Resort Buying Show (unanimous)
• Approved Houston Engineering contract for rock arch rapids oversight (unanimous)
• Approved organizational business: meeting schedule, $125 supervisor compensation, mileage rate, depository, official newspaper, check signing authority (unanimous)
• Approved MASWCD dues (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 12-2025 accepting Wetland Conservation Act delegation from City of Walker (unanimous)
• Approved CS484-24 Shoreline Restoration from Pine River WBIF (unanimous)