Chisago County public meetings in 2025

County Board of Commissioners

The Chisago County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the reconstruction of TH 8. The agenda also includes a review of bills and an environmental services and zoning report.

• Discussion on TH 8 Reconstruction
• Approval of bills
• Environmental Services/Zoning Report

Board of Adjustment & Appeals

The May 28, 2025 tour and May 29, 2025 meeting have been canceled because there is no business to discuss or act on.

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing several road construction contracts and grant agreements. The body is also considering a rezoning request and amendments to water management and work plans.

• Reappointment of Joe Triplett as County Highway Engineer for a term ending April 30, 2029
• Testing services contract with American Engineering & Testing (AET) for CR 57
• Roundabout design contract with Kimley-Horn for CSAH 14
• Rezoning request for Stenberg and Swanson from Rural Residential (RR) to Agricultural (AG)
• Grant of $600k from DNR State Park Road Account for CR 65 reconstruction

Park Board

The Chisago County Park Board will discuss the Fish Lake Park Master Plan, a regional designation application, and road construction for the Sunrise Prairie Regional Trail. The meeting also includes approval of minutes and updates on the Ki-Chi-Saga Concession Stand and SHIP Grant.

• Fish Lake Park Master Plan and Regional Designation Park Application
• Sunrise Prairie Regional Trail-Forest Blvd Road Construction
• County Park Beach Signage Rules
• Ki-Chi-Saga Concession Stand-Resolution
• SHIP Grant-Hydration Station

Budget & Finance Committee

The committee will review current year-to-date financial updates, including operating budgets, salaries, and fund balances. Members will also discuss the sale of county property and tax forfeiture matters.

• Tax Forfeiture Tree Removal in the City of Stacy
• Discussion on the sale of County Property
• ECSI Cellular Fire Alarm for government buildings
• Tax Forfeiture Delegation
• Review of $103,055,585 amended total budget across all funds

Water Plan Policy Team

The Water Plan Policy Team will discuss water quality monitoring, groundwater scoping quotes, and the Lower St. Croix Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan. The body will also receive updates on aquatic invasive species prevention and lake level readings.

• Groundwater Scoping Document Request for Quotes
• 2024 Annual Reports for Aquatic Invasive Species, Water Resources, and Water Quality Monitoring
• Lower St. Croix Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan minor amendment and FY23 request
• Zebra Mussel Watch Program and water access monitoring updates
• Slow-No-Wake Ordinance updates

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss zoning ordinances for horse and equine training businesses in the Agricultural District and a remodel of the PRO department. The meeting includes several Health and Human Services recommendations and updates on state legislative funding shifts.

• Zoning Ordinance for Horse / Equine Training and Businesses in the Ag. District
• Facilities Committee Report on PRO Dept Remodel (CPO to CCA Transition)
• Fraud Prevention Investigation Agreement through 6.30.2027
• Renewal of Liquor, Wine, Club and 3.2% Licenses
• Temporary Liquor Licenses for Franconia Sculpture Park (4 events)

Lake Improvement District

The Chisago Lakes Lake Improvement District will meet to review the 2025 budget process and a Township Turnaround Feasibility Study. The board will also receive a spring channel and weir inspection report from Emmons and Olivier Resources Inc.

• 2025 LID Budget Process
• Township Turnaround Feasibility Study – EOR
• Spring Channel & Weir Inspection Report from Emmons and Olivier Resources Inc.
• Approval of invoice payments

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a request to rezone a 13-acre parcel at 37454 Vibo Trail from Rural Residential to Agricultural. The body will also discuss zoning map amendments and rural retail tourism and wedding venue regulations.

• Public hearing: Rezoning of 37454 Vibo Trail from Rural Residential (RR) to Agricultural (AG)
• Discussion on Rural Retail Tourism and Wedding Venue regulations
• Discussion on Major Home Occupation vs. Horse/Equine Permitted Use
• Review of Ordinance Issue Identification Tracking Matrix
• Resolution No. 25/0416-2 regarding Commission and Board structure and procedure

Board of Adjustment & Appeals

The Board of Adjustment & Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a variance request for a property in Amador Township. The applicant seeks to partially replace or improve a non-conforming septic system located within the Floodplain Management District.

• Public hearing for Cashmere Properties, LLC regarding a septic system variance at 37200 Wild Mountain Road / CSAH 16

Park Board

The Park Board will review updates on the Swedish Immigrant Regional Trail and the 2025 Capital Improvement Plan. The board is also considering new entrance signs and mountain bike course developments.

• Proposed Checkerboard Park sign replacement: structural materials estimated at $2,100 and sign at $1,900
• Swedish Immigrant Regional Trail updates for Segment D and Segment E
• Ki-Chi-Saga Mountain Bike Course discussion
• Fish Lake Swimming Platform discussion
• 2025 Parks Seasonal Staffing update for rangers, collection attendants, and maintenance workers

The board unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the March 20, 2025 minutes. Updates were given on the Swedish Immigrant Regional Trail, capital improvements, concession stand, staffing, and entrance counters. The board voted 4‑1 to not put the Fish Lake swimming platform out for the 2025 season. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 20, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Voted 4‑1 not to open Fish Lake swimming platform for 2025 season
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss road projects and consider several professional service contracts. Key items include a proposed agreement for retro-reflective pavement markings and a grant agreement for the TH 8 reconstruction project.

• Proposed $271,920 contract with Sir Lines-A-Lot for 2025 Retro-Reflective Pavement Markings Project
• TH 8 LRIP Grant Agreement
• Professional/Technical Services Contract with Guardian Solutions through 2026
• Professional/Technical Services Contract with Pine Fiduciary Services LLC
• 2025 State Boat and Water Safety Grant

The commissioners approved the consent agenda, which included a $3,968,595.72 grant agreement for the Local Road Improvement Program and a payment of warrants totaling $690,943.66. They also adopted a new policy governing the Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment and Appeals, and accepted the Environmental Services Director’s Report. All actions were approved unanimously.

• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Opened Road and Bridge Committee of the Whole (unanimous)
• Moved items 1‑3 to consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved $3,968,595.72 Local Road Improvement grant agreement (unanimous)
• Approved payment of warrants $690,943.66 (unanimous)
• Adopted Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment policy (unanimous)
• Accepted Environmental Services Director’s Report (unanimous)
• Closed Road and Bridge Committee of the Whole (unanimous)

Lake Improvement District

The Chisago Lakes Lake Improvement District board will discuss managing beaver activity at the Lake Ellen weir to restore water flow. The board is reviewing proposals for dam removal and trapping services.

• Beaver dam removal at Lake Ellen Weir: proposals from Peterson Companies, Inc. and Dresel Contracting, Inc.
• Beaver trapping services for Lake Ellen
• Survey and legal descriptions for Lindstrom Park LLC

The board unanimously approved a contract up to $36,550 for Peterson Companies to remove the beaver dam at Lake Ellen Weir. It also approved a $3,500 trapping contract with Andy Shoemaker and a $750 survey and easement exhibit by Widseth Smith Nolting & Associates. All motions passed with five votes in favor and none opposed.

• Approved beaver dam removal contract up to $36,550 (5-0)
• Approved Lake Ellen trapping contract up to $3,500 (5-0)
• Approved survey and easement exhibit contract up to $750 (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Budget & Finance Committee

The committee is reviewing year-to-date financial reports, including operating budgets, salaries, and fund balances as of March 31, 2025. The meeting also includes discussions on the 2026 budget schedule and specific policy and contract items.

• CCSO Axon Contract
• Meals and Refreshment Policy
• 2026 Budget Schedule
• Year-to-date financial update showing total all funds actual spending of $24,753,660
• Review of Capital Equipment Fund spending totaling $1,826,237

Lake Improvement District

The Chisago Lakes Lake Improvement District will convene its annual meeting to approve minutes, financial reports, and invoices. The board will also consider new business items including dock supplies, a YouTube channel, and the 2025 Aquatic Invasive Species Partnership Program.

• Approval of LID Government Center Dock Supplies
• YouTube Channel Approval
• 2025 AIS Partnership Program
• Lake Mapping, Bio Base LLC
• Karl Oskar Days (7/11-7/12)

The board approved the consent agenda, which included the March 3, 2025 minutes, the financial report, and invoice payments for listed amounts. They also approved purchasing new dock posts and hardware for up to $400. Additional approvals created a LID YouTube page and allocated $40 to rent a booth at Lindstrom’s Karl Oskar Days in July.

• Approved agenda (amended) (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items including March 3, 2025 minutes and invoice payments (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of new dock posts and hardware, not to exceed $400 (unanimous)
• Approved creation of a LID YouTube page (unanimous)
• Approved spending $40 to rent a booth at Lindstrom’s Karl Oskar Days, July 11‑13 (unanimous)
• Approved invoice payments for listed amounts (Collins Engineers $1,757.50; EOR Board Meeting Attendance $275.00; EOR Water Levels $381.50; WSB Lab Jan $1,593.50; WSB Lab Feb $49,936.72; Monthly Expense $53,944.22) (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to discuss rural retail tourism and wedding venue regulations, as well as major home occupations versus equine permitted uses. The body will also review an ordinance issue tracking matrix and a zoning map amendment work plan.

• Discussion on Rural Retail Tourism and wedding venue regulations
• Discussion on Major Home Occupation vs. horse/equine permitted use
• Review of Ordinance Issue Identification Tracking Matrix
• Discussion on Official Zoning Map Amendment work plan

The Planning Commission reached consensus to set a 100‑foot road setback and a 125‑foot setback from other property boundaries for Class 2 uses, and a 100‑foot road setback with a 250‑foot setback from all other boundaries for Class 3 uses. They adjusted the maximum occupancy for Class 2 events to 100 people, exempting staff and wedding parties, and eliminated the “Minimum Facility/Programmed Space Setback from Adjacent Developed Property” standard from the guidance matrix. The commission also added verbiage clarifying screening applies to Classes 2 and 3, allowed outdoor amplified music a maximum of two days per week, and updated class descriptions with examples and wording changes.

• Set Class 2 road setback to 100 ft (consensus)
• Set Class 2 non‑road setback to 125 ft (consensus)
• Set Class 3 road setback to 100 ft and other boundary setback to 250 ft (consensus)
• Adjust Class 2 event occupancy limit to 100 people, staff and wedding parties exempt (consensus)
• Remove “Minimum Facility/Programmed Space Setback from Adjacent Developed Property” from matrix (consensus)
• Add verbiage that screening requirements apply to Classes 2 and 3 (consensus)
• Allow outdoor amplified music up to two days per week (consensus)
• Add examples (wineries, orchards, corn mazes) for Class 2 and add “large” descriptor for Class 3 (consensus)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the 2025 Assessment Report and a Park Fund request from Amador Township. The meeting includes several Health and Human Services recommendations, including service agreements and a contract cancellation.

• 2025 Assessment Report
• Park Fund Request by Amador Township
• Transportation Agreement with Wolf Creek Online High School
• Service Agreement with Seibel Family Visitation and Exchange Center
• Notice of Cancelation to Lakes Center for Youth and Families

The board approved the submission of a raffle application for Almelund Threshing Co. at Maple Ridge Farm, authorized a $9,600 park‑fund request for Amador Township, and adopted a proclamation for Child Care Provider Appreciation Day. It also approved temporary liquor licenses for three venues, authorized a county engineer to attend a conference, and approved the creation of county VISA accounts. All motions passed unanimously with no opposition.

• Approved submission of raffle application for Almelund Threshing Co. at Maple Ridge Farm (unanimous)
• Approved $9,600 Amador Township park‑fund request for new playground equipment (unanimous)
• Authorized Infrastructure Engineer to attend 2024 VMWare VMUG conference and issue related purchase orders (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to apply for and obtain VISA accounts for designated county employees (unanimous)
• Approved temporary liquor licenses for Franconia Sculpture Park (May 10 2025), Almelund Lion’s Club (June 21 2025), and Almelund Lion’s Club (May 31 2025) (unanimous)
• Adopted Proclamation No. 25/0402‑1 declaring May 9 2025 Child Care Provider Appreciation Day (unanimous)
• Approved payment of county warrants and miscellaneous bills totaling $614,399.10 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items 1‑7, including HHS committee recommendations (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment & Appeals

The March 26, 2025 tour and March 27, 2025 meeting have been canceled. There was no business to discuss or act on.

Water Plan Policy Team

The Chisago County Water Plan Policy Team will meet to approve minutes, review annual reports on aquatic invasive species and water resources, and discuss updates on the Lower St. Croix watershed plan and wellhead protection programs.

• Approval of meeting minutes from January 13 and February 10, 2025
• Review of 2024 Annual Reports for aquatic invasive species and water resources
• Updates on the Lower St. Croix Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan
• Updates on the Wellhead Protection Program for North Branch and Wyoming
• Aquatic Invasive Species Program updates including zebra mussel veliger results

Park Board

The Park Board will discuss the 2025 Capital Improvement Plan and seasonal staffing updates. The board is also tasked with taking action on a funding request from Amador Township.

• Township Funding Request from Amador Township
• 2025 Capital Improvement Plan
• 2025 Seasonal Staffing Update (Park Rangers, Collection Attendants, and Maintenance Workers)
• Fish Lake Park season passes
• Ki-Chi Saga Concession Building update

The Chisago County Park Board approved its agenda and the January 16, 2025 minutes, both unanimously. It then voted unanimously to approve Amador Township's funding request. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous motion. Other items such as trail updates, Wi‑Fi installation, and staffing were discussed but no further actions were taken.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved January 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Amador Township funding request (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission's Work Session scheduled for March 20, 2025, has been canceled because there is no business to discuss.

County Board of Commissioners

The Chisago County Board will consider a contract with Stantec for preliminary design of the I-35/CSAH 19 interchange in Stacy. The board will also approve a consent agenda of road projects, plat approvals, and bills, and hold a public hearing on property tax abatement.

• I-35/CSAH 19 Interchange predesign agreement with Stantec ($137,735)
• CSAH 10 Reconstruction contract with Two Pines
• CSAH 16 Bridge Replacement Final
• Property Tax Abatement for NS Investments LLC public hearing
• Westlaw contract renewal with Thomson Reuters

The County Board unanimously approved the Final Plat for Amador Meadows and the Final Plat for Goose Lake Acres, creating new lots in each subdivision. It also approved a right‑of‑way plat for CSAH 19, an interim use permit for Larry Hansen, and payment of county warrants totaling $734,237.28. The agenda, consent agenda, and the Environmental Services Director’s Report were accepted without opposition.

• Approved agenda (motion Greene) – unanimous
• Approved consent agenda, including Right‑of‑Way Plat 117 – unanimous
• Approved Final Plat of Amador Meadows (Resolution 25/0319-2) – unanimous
• Approved Final Plat of Goose Lake Acres (Resolution 25/0319-3) – unanimous
• Approved Interim Use Permit for Larry Hansen (Resolution 25/0319-5) – unanimous
• Approved payment of County warrants and miscellaneous bills $734,237.28 – unanimous
• Accepted Environmental Services Director’s Report – unanimous

Budget & Finance Committee

The Chisago County Budget & Finance Committee will review year-to-date financial updates, including operating budget comparisons and fund balance charts. The meeting also covers public safety expenditures, the 2026 budget process, and a discussion on a mini trucks ordinance.

• Review of 2025 financial performance and fund balances
• Public safety expenditures including Flock cameras and drone program
• Discussion on 2026 budget process
• Mini trucks ordinance discussion
• Jail boarding with Hennepin County

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will conduct public hearings regarding an interim use permit for an accessory structure in Nessel Township and a preliminary plat for three lots in Fish Lake Township.

• Public hearing: Larry Hansen request for Interim Use Permit for an accessory structure with sanitary facilities on 12.57± acres (Rush Lake Trail / CSAH 1, Nessel Township)
• Public hearing: Nancy L. Jamieson Revocable Trust request for Preliminary Plat of Anam Cara Acres to create three lots on 10.42± acres (3780 Stark Road / CSAH 10, Fish Lake Township)

The Chisago County Planning Commission voted 7-0 to recommend approval of an Interim Use Permit for an accessory structure with sanitary facilities on a 12.57-acre property in Nessel Township, and a Preliminary Plat for a three-lot subdivision (Anam Cara Acres) in Fish Lake Township. Both recommendations will go to the County Board for final action. The commission also canceled the March 20 special work session.

• Recommended approval of Interim Use Permit for accessory structure with sanitary facilities (7-0)
• Recommended approval of Preliminary Plat of Anam Cara Acres, three-lot subdivision (7-0)
• Canceled March 20, 2025 Special Work Session (7-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the 2024 Human Services Annual Report and potential staffing needs due to state legislative changes. The meeting includes a consent agenda for warrants, grants, and professional service contracts.

• Professional services contracts with Sheila Bohnsack and Pine Fiduciary Services LLC
• 2025 Budget Adjustments and Permanent Transfer
• Lease for Lawful Gambling Activity with Goose Lake Association
• Use of Compliance Funds for Aumentum/Tyler Conversion
• Letter of Support for Rush City Public Works Federal EDA Grant

The Chisago County Board of Commissioners approved the consent agenda, which included 13 items such as payments, contracts, permits, and a donation. They also approved several individual actions, including a letter supporting Rush City's industrial park funding request and agreements for GED programming and aquatic invasive species prevention. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved consent agenda with 13 items (5-0)
• Approved $795,895.82 in county warrants and bills (5-0)
• Approved raffle permit application for Almelund Threshing Show (5-0)
• Approved premises permit application for Goose Lake Association (5-0)
• Accepted $1,000 donation from Sheriff's Foundation for breaching shotguns (5-0)
• Approved off-site gambling application for Goose Lake Association (5-0)
• Approved letter supporting Rush City Industrial Park Infrastructure Project (5-0)
• Approved agreement with St. Croix River Education District for GED programming (5-0)

Lake Improvement District

The Chisago Lakes Lake Improvement District will review workplans for aquatic invasive species and phragmites. The board will also consider recommendations for real property and easement acquisitions for the North Center/North Lindstrom Channel project during a closed session.

• Point Intercept Lake Recommendation
• LID and County Phragmites Workplan
• North Country Beaver Control for channel maintenance wildlife control
• Save Our Shorelines
• Closed session regarding property and easement acquisitions for North Center/North Lindstrom Channel

The Chisago Lakes Lake Improvement District Board approved several actions, including a Point Intercept Survey on North Center Lake, a beaver removal contract, and a new Save Our Shorelines program. The board also recommended the County Board authorize offers to purchase channel easements on the Keller/John property and a portion of Lindstrom Park, LLC property for channel improvements, with an amendment to include a turnaround on the Keller property. All votes were unanimous with Jill Behnke absent.

• Approved agenda and consent agenda including minutes, financial report, and invoice payments (6-0)
• Approved Point Intercept Survey on North Center Lake in 2025 (6-0)
• Approved contract with Gary Nelson of North Country Beaver Control up to $1,000 for beaver removal (6-0)
• Approved new Save Our Shorelines (SOS) Program with up to $1,000 for signage and outreach (6-0)
• Recommended County Board authorize offer for permanent channel easement on Keller/John property (6-0)
• Recommended County Board authorize offer to purchase portion of Lindstrom Park, LLC property for channel improvements (6-0)
• Amended motion to include turnaround improvement on Keller property offer (6-0)

Board of Adjustment & Appeals

The Chisago County Board of Adjustment and Appeals will elect a Chair and Vice Chair for 2025 and consider two variance requests for reduced lakefront setbacks. The meeting is scheduled for February 27, 2025, at 7:00 pm.

• Election of 2025 Chair and Vice Chair
• Variance request for Byron & Judy Dahlheimer at 32730 N. Center Court
• Variance request for Adam Arneson at 11820 Mentzer Trail
• Approval of December 23, 2024 meeting minutes
• Review of Board of Adjustment and Appeals policy

The Board of Adjustment & Appeals unanimously approved a variance for Byron & Judy Dahlheimer to redevelop their lakeshore property at 32730 N. Center Court in Chisago Lake Township. The variance allows reduced setbacks from the Ordinary High Water Level, the northerly side yard, and the Township Right-of-Way to construct a new dwelling with attached garage. The board also elected officers, approved the agenda and amended minutes, and accepted the Planning Commission's recommended policy amendments.

• Elected Doug Greene as 2025 Chair (5-0)
• Elected Gregg Carlson as 2025 Vice Chair (5-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved December 23, 2024 minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution BOAA2025-0201 granting variance for reduced setbacks at 32730 N. Center Court (unanimous)
• Accepted Planning Commission's recommended amendments to Commission/Board policy (unanimous)

Park Board

The Chisago County Park Board cancelled its February 20, 2025 meeting. The next meeting is scheduled for March 20, 2025.

• February meeting cancelled
• Next meeting scheduled for March 20, 2025

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a work session to discuss specific land use and zoning issues requested by the County Board and Commissioners. The meeting focuses on reviewing ordinance tracking and planning for zoning map amendments.

• Discussion on rural retail tourism and wedding venues
• Discussion on major home occupation versus horse/equine permitted use
• Work plan for Official Zoning Map Amendment
• Review of Zoning Ordinance Issue Identification Tracking Matrix

The Planning Commission held a work session to refine the Rural Retail Tourism Matrix, reaching consensus on a three-class system with acreage minimums (under 20 acres for Class 1, 20 for Class 2, 40 for Class 3) and a 200-person maximum occupancy. They also agreed to add screening as a matrix variable, reword amplified music to 'Limited Amplified Outdoor Music', and cap Class 3 events at three per week. No formal votes were taken; these are consensus recommendations for future ordinance language.

• Consensus on 3-class Rural Retail Tourism Matrix with acreage minimums (Class 1: <20 ac, Class 2: 20 ac, Class 3: 40 ac)
• Consensus on 200-person maximum event occupancy
• Consensus to add 'Screening Required' variable to matrix (Classes 2 & 3 required, Class 1 case-by-case)
• Consensus to reword variable to 'Limited Amplified Outdoor Music'
• Consensus to cap Class 3 events at 3 per week
• Consensus to remove three parking surface variables, create 'General Designated Parking Area with Drainage Plan' for Classes 1 & 2
• Consensus to keep wedding/gathering venues under Rural Retail Tourism category
• Consensus to amend Section 4.17 B.11 replacing 'cattle' with 'farm animals'

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss road construction contracts and the use of eminent domain for the CSAH 10 Reconstruction Project. The meeting includes the adoption of an official zoning map and reviews of several preliminary plats.

• Eminent domain for CSAH 10 Reconstruction Project (S.A.P. 013-610-013)
• Adoption of Chisago County Official Zoning Map with Amendments
• Professional Services Agreement with WSB to study I-35/CSAH 22 Corridor
• Preliminary Plats for Amador Meadows and Peltier Estates
• Property Tax Abatement for NS Investments LLC

The Chisago County Board approved the new Official Zoning Map, consolidating rural residential districts and renaming the urban residential district. The board also authorized eminent domain for the CSAH 10 reconstruction, approved two preliminary plats, and approved an interim use permit for a contracting business.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 2025/0219-1, new Official Zoning Map (5-0)
• Authorized eminent domain for CSAH 10 reconstruction (5-0)
• Approved Interim Use Permit for Joshua Fields contracting business (5-0)
• Approved Preliminary Plat of Amador Meadows (5-0)
• Approved Preliminary Plat of Peltier Estates (5-0)
• Approved letter of support for AIS Prevention Aid funding (5-0)
• Approved $69,050 for CJIS Security Compliance project (5-0)
• Delegated financial duties to Finance Director (4-0, Swenson absent)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget & Finance Committee will review year-to-date financial updates, including operating budget comparisons, fund balance charts, and salary and wage reports for 2024. The meeting will also include a discussion on the 2024 Wheelage Tax and updates on county staffing.

• Review of 2024 General Fund operating budget vs actual ($17,087,636 actual vs $21,889,594 amended)
• Review of 2024 Road and Bridge Fund operating budget vs actual ($20,061,474 actual vs $21,566,350 amended)
• Review of 2024 Health and Human Services Fund operating budget vs actual ($4,639,314 actual vs $6,166,140 amended)
• Review of 2024 Salaries and Wages budget vs actual ($40,820,216 actual vs $41,602,809 adopted)
• Review of 2024 Wheelage Tax collection ($561,064 collected of $600,000 budget)

Water Plan Policy Team

The Chisago County Water Plan Policy Team will meet to review letters of support for lake restoration and funding programs. The body will also receive updates on ARPA-funded lake management planning.

• West Rush Lake Restoration Project – Letter of Support
• AIS Prevention Aid Program Funding Cuts – Letter of Support
• ARPA Update: EOR Lake Management Planning – Task 1 Lake Assessment and Stakeholder Input

The Chisago County Water Plan Policy Team approved two letters of support: one to U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber for Rush Lake Improvement Association's request to address phosphorus pollution in West Rush Lake, and one to Gov. Walz to maintain full state AIS Prevention Aid funding for FY 2025-27. They also reviewed a concern matrix for lake management planning, with results to be presented at the next meeting.

• Approved letter of support to U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber for West Rush Lake phosphorus pollution request (unanimous)
• Approved letter to Gov. Walz to maintain full AIS Prevention Aid funding for FY 2025-27 (unanimous)
• Reviewed concern matrix for lake management planning; no formal action taken

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three land use and platting requests and discuss updates to the Official Zoning Map. The body will also elect a Chair and Vice Chair for 2025.

• Proposed adoption of Official Zoning Map amendments, including consolidating Rural Residential I and II into a single Rural Residential District
• Public hearing for an After-the-Fact Interim Use Permit for Fields Contracting excavation services at 45134 John Avenue
• Preliminary Plat request for Peltier Estates to create one lot from 45.8± acres in Chisago Lake Township
• Preliminary Plat request for Amador Meadows to create two lots from 26.8± acres in Amador Township
• Annual review of Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment and Appeals policy

The Chisago County Planning Commission recommended approval of an Interim Use Permit for Fields Contracting, a contracting business at 45134 John Avenue in Sunrise Township, with an amended 8-foot berm and added hazardous waste language. It also recommended approval of preliminary plats for Peltier Estates in Chisago Lake Township and Amador Meadows in Amador Township, each with conditions. The commission adopted the Official Zoning Map with amendments consolidating rural residential districts and renaming the urban residential district. All votes were unanimous (6-0).

• Recommended approval of Interim Use Permit for Fields Contracting (6-0)
• Recommended approval of Preliminary Plat of Peltier Estates (6-0)
• Recommended approval of Preliminary Plat of Amador Meadows (6-0)
• Adopted Official Zoning Map with amendments (6-0)
• Elected Jolene Wille as 2025 Chair (6-0)
• Elected Chris DuBose as 2025 Vice Chair (6-0)
• Approved agenda and minutes (6-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the establishment of a new Finance Department and review the 2025 Capital Improvement Plan. The meeting includes a Health and Human Services committee review of contracts and budget adjustments.

• Creation of Chisago County Finance Department
• 2025 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and Meraki WiFi Project
• New Pathways 2025 - 2027 Contract
• Payment of $577,219.98 in Human Services warrants
• Budget adjustment for Stacy squad car purchase

The Chisago County Board approved the creation of a Finance Department and a one-time comp time payment of $26,725.76 to Kristin Waddell. They also approved the 2025 Capital Improvement Plan projects, a budget adjustment, and the transfer of K9 Stryker to Sergeant Chad Stenson for $1. The board approved the consent agenda, including payment of warrants totaling $1,723,593.01, and authorized several other items. No substantive decisions were made during the closed session, which was for labor negotiation strategy.

• Approved creation of Finance Department and $26,725.76 comp time payment to Kristin Waddell (5-0)
• Approved 2025 CIP projects, Meraki Wi-Fi, and radio upgrades (5-0)
• Approved budget adjustment for 2025 CIP, tabling park mower and sign projects (5-0)
• Approved transfer of K9 Stryker to Sgt. Chad Stenson for $1 (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $1,723,593.01 in warrants (5-0)
• Approved $10,000 for Employee Recognition Committee through 2026 (5-0)
• Approved STI work order for data migration up to $20,000 (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Robert H. Collins as Examiner of Titles and David J. Meyers as Deputy (5-0)

Lake Improvement District

The board will conduct its annual business meeting to swear in election winners and appoint leadership. The body will discuss the 2025 budget, the Water Resource Management Plan, and workgroup assignments.

• Review of election results and oaths of office for Area 5 (Travis LaMotte) and Area 7 (Todd McBride)
• Appointment of Board Chair and Vice Chair
• Discussion of 2025 Budget
• Review of Water Resource Management Plan
• Proposed $325.00 purchase for a LID display tablecloth

The Chisago Lakes Lake Improvement District Board approved the agenda, consent agenda, and $3,500.12 in February invoices. Directors Travis LaMotte and Todd McBride were re-elected to their seats and sworn in, and Mike Mergens was named chair and Gary Schumacher vice chair for 2025. The board also approved 2025 workgroup assignments, the 2025 meeting calendar, and a $325 tablecloth purchase. No substantive policy decisions were made beyond routine approvals and officer elections.

• Approved agenda and consent agenda including January 6, 2025 minutes, financial report, and invoice payments (4-0)
• Re-elected Travis LaMotte (Area 5) and Todd McBride (Area 7) to LID Board seats (6 votes each)
• Nominated Mike Mergens as LID Board Chair for 2025 (4-0)
• Nominated Gary Schumacher as LID Board Vice Chair for 2025 (4-0)
• Approved 2025 workgroup assignments for AIS, channel maintenance, planning/budget, and channel/weir operations (4-0)
• Approved 2025 LID meeting calendar (4-0)
• Approved $325.00 for new tablecloth with updated logo for LID booth display (4-0)

Board of Adjustment & Appeals

The Board of Adjustment & Appeals canceled its January 30, 2025 meeting due to a lack of applications or public hearings to consider. The session was originally scheduled at the Chisago County Government Center.

• Meeting canceled for lack of applications or public hearings
• Scheduled at Chisago County Government Center, 313 N. Main Street

Park Board

The Park Board will elect a Chair and Vice Chair for 2025, review minutes from December 19, 2024, and discuss updates on the Ki-Chi Saga Concession Building and SHIP projects.

• Election of 2025 Chair and Vice Chair
• Approval of December 19, 2024 minutes
• Ki-Chi Saga Concession Building update
• SHIP Projects: Hydration Station and signage
• 2024 Parks and Trails Annual Report

The Chisago County Park Board unanimously elected John Pantelis as 2025 Chair and Allen Siedow as Vice Chair. The board approved the amended December 19, 2024 minutes, adding that the two possible phase options for the Legacy Funding Application were Segment D&E. They also received updates on the Ki-Chi-Saga concession building and SHIP projects, and discussed the 2024 Annual Report.

• Elected John Pantelis as 2025 Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Allen Siedow as 2025 Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved the agenda (unanimous)
• Approved amended December 19, 2024 minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing regarding the adoption of an official zoning map. The body will also discuss performance standards for rural retail tourism and the classification of equine businesses.

• Public hearing to consolidate Rural Residential I (RRI) and Rural Residential II (RRII) into a single Rural Residential (RR) District
• Proposed change of Urban Residential (UR) District terminology to Urban Fringe Residential (UFR) District
• Discussion on Rural Retail Tourism/Wedding Venue standards, including a 300-person attendee limit and 20-acre minimum lot size in AG Districts
• Proposal by Commissioner Whitney to classify horse/equine businesses as Permitted Agricultural Use instead of Major Home Occupation

The Planning Commission held a work session and scheduled a public hearing for February 6, 2025, to consider adopting an Official Zoning Map that consolidates Rural Residential districts and renames Urban Residential to Urban Fringe Residential. No formal decisions were made; the commission discussed potential changes to wedding venue regulations, including a possible tiered system or elimination, but took no action. The commission also agreed to add the zoning map and a horse/equine use topic to a tracking matrix for future discussion.

• Scheduled public hearing for Feb. 6, 2025, on Official Zoning Map adoption
• Added zoning map and horse/equine use topics to tracking matrix for future discussion
• No action taken on wedding venue regulations; discussion only

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss and vote on several road and bridge projects, including a construction award for CSAH 16. The meeting also covers zoning reports, staffing for a substance use prevention grant, and various professional service agreements.

• Proposed award of $3,694,716.00 to Knife River Corporation for CSAH 16 Reconditioning Project
• Final design for CSAH 19 RAB & Reconstruction Project
• Schulte Farm Final Plat
• Engineering and design for Weir Repair (LID)
• Purchase of Service Agreement for Resource Training and Solutions

The Chisago County Board approved the final plat for Schulte Farm, creating two lots from a 20-acre site, and approved several contracts and agreements including Phase-3 of the Chisago Lakes Lake Improvement District Weir Repair project with Collins Engineers Inc. The board also approved a staffing proposal for a cannabis and substance use prevention grant, an out-of-state travel request, and a purchase of service agreement. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved Final Plat of Schulte Farm (Resolution 25/0115-1) (5-0)
• Approved Phase-3 Collins Engineers Inc. proposal for Weir Repair project (5-0)
• Approved staffing proposal for Health Cannabis and Substance Use Prevention Grant (5-0)
• Approved out-of-state travel for Courtney W. and Madelyn W. to 2025 Preparedness Summit (5-0)
• Approved Purchase of Service Agreement with Resource and Training Solutions (5-0)
• Appointed Mike Mergens, Brenda Green, Gary Schumacher to One Watershed One Plan (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including CSAH 16 project award and CSAH 19 final design (5-0)

Water Plan Policy Team

The Water Plan Policy Team will meet to elect leadership and review water management projects. The session includes presentations on lake restoration and aquatic invasive species (AIS) planning.

• West Rush Lake Restoration Project presentation
• City of Stacy Wellhead Protection Program discussion
• Lower St. Croix Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan appointments and signage project
• ARPA updates regarding 2025 AIS Treatment and Education Grant Agreements
• Wild Rivers Conservancy 2024 monitoring summary for Phragmites and Purple Loosestrife

The Chisago County Water Plan Policy Team approved a letter of support to U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber for Rush Lake Improvement Association's federal funding request to address phosphorus pollution in West Rush Lake. They also appointed Dawn White as chair and Robert Klatt as vice-chair, and funded up to three Citizen at Large members to attend the Minnesota Lake Management Symposium. The team discussed citizen at-large term expirations and scheduled a special meeting for February 10, 2025.

• Approved letter of support to U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber for West Rush Lake phosphorus funding (7-0)
• Appointed Dawn White as chair and Robert Klatt as vice-chair (7-0)
• Approved funding up to $210 for three Citizen at Large members to attend Minnesota Lake Management Symposium (7-0)
• Approved minutes of November 18, 2024 meeting (7-0)
• Approved agenda (7-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is conducting its annual organization to elect leadership and establish 2025 operating guidelines. The meeting includes a public hearing on the 2025 fee schedule and discussions on the Capital Improvement Plan.

• Public hearing on the 2025 Chisago County Fee Schedule
• Election of 2025 Board Chair and Vice Chair
• Adoption of the 2025 Capital Improvement Plan
• Official Zoning Map Adoption Hearing for Consolidated Rural Residential (RR) District
• Final contract payment for the CSAH 21 Reconstruction Project

The Chisago County Board held its annual organizational meeting, electing Dan Dahlberg as Chair and Rick Greene as Vice Chair for 2025. The board adopted the 2025 meeting schedule, operating guidelines, and committee assignments, and approved a resolution delegating certain personnel and human resource functions to the County Administrator. It also approved the 2025 fee schedule, a $2M roundabout funding support request, and various routine items including appointments and a consent agenda.

• Elected Dan Dahlberg as Board Chair for 2025 (unanimous)
• Elected Rick Greene as Vice Chair for 2025 (unanimous)
• Adopted 2025 Board meeting schedule and operating guidelines (unanimous)
• Approved delegation of routine personnel actions to County Administrator (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 committee assignments and per diem policy (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 fee schedule effective Jan 7 (unanimous)
• Approved $383,017.25 in warrants and bills (unanimous)
• Approved resolution supporting $2M roundabout on US Hwy 8 at CSAH 21 (unanimous)

Lake Improvement District

The Lake Improvement District will conduct its annual meeting to review financial reports and invoice payments. The board will discuss aquatic plant surveys and fisheries reports, and address director applications for the 2025–2029 term.

• Approval of invoice payments
• Aquatic Plant Survey Report for Green Lake and Little Green Lake
• Hinckley Area Fisheries, Chisago Lakes Creel 2025 report
• Appointment of 1W1P Policy Committee term expirations
• LID Director Applications for 2025–2029 (Areas 5 and 7)

The Chisago Lakes Lake Improvement District Board approved the consent agenda, including minutes, financial report, and invoice payments totaling $35,842.18. They also nominated Mike Mergens as the At Large representative and Gary Schumacher as the alternate to the One Watershed, One Plan Policy Committee. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports and updates.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes, financial report, and invoice payments (7-0)
• Nominated Mike Mergens as At Large LID Representative to One Watershed, One Plan Policy Committee (7-0)
• Nominated Gary Schumacher as Alternate LID Representative to One Watershed, One Plan Policy Committee (7-0)

Planning Commission

The January 2, 2025 regular meeting and the December 31, 2024 tour have been canceled. The commission stated there is no business to discuss or act on.