Koochiching County public meetings in 2023

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold its regular meeting on December 26, 2023, to approve the 2024 county tax levy and budget, along with several financial and operational items. The board will also consider employment separations, purchases for the sheriff's department, and various public health service agreements. The meeting includes a public comment period and committee-of-the-whole discussions on the opioid settlement and veteran memorial relocation.

• Adopt 2024 County Tax Levy and County Budget
• Adopt Resolution Approving Interfund Loans
• Approve Purchase of Two Squad Trucks on State Bid for 2024
• Approve Purchase of 14 Tasers on a Five-Year Payment Plan
• Award 2024 County Publication Bid for Official Newspaper

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold its regular meeting, including a truth-in-taxation public hearing on the proposed 2024 county budget and tax levy. The board will also consider routine financial approvals, personnel actions, a policy change, and an amendment to a prior bid award. The budget adoption is scheduled for December 26, 2023.

• Truth in Taxation public hearing on proposed 2024 budget and levy
• Approve November summarized payment listing, payroll, ACH vendor payments, courthouse and highway claims, warrant voids
• Approve promotion of part-time to full-time 911 dispatcher/correctional officer and hire of part-time E911 dispatcher/corrections officer
• Request approval of Koochiching County policy on general sick leave
• Amend Board Motion 2023/11-15 re: awarding canister site bids

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold its regular meeting on November 28, 2023, to handle routine county business, including approving claims, hiring and promotions, and various agreements. Key items include setting 2024 elected official salaries, approving jail design development drawings, and renewing several service agreements. The agenda also includes public comment and informational items.

• Approve 2024 Elected Official Salaries
• Approve Jail Design Development Drawings
• Approve 2023 Emergency Operations Plan
• Accept donations of 260 children's winter coats and 35 pairs of snowpants
• Adopt resolutions of support for Big Falls and Littlefork local road improvement projects

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board of Commissioners will meet as a committee of the whole to review the 2024 budget and levy, including the Koochiching Development Authority (KDA) budget. They will also discuss storm water sewer alignment related to jail construction, ambulance services, airport matters, and setting up a meeting with Senator Hauschild.

• 2024 Budget/Levy Review
• KDA Budget Review
• Storm Water Sewer Alignment – Jail Construction
• Ambulance
• Airport

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold its regular meeting, administering the oath of office to newly elected District 5 Commissioner Dale N. Erickson. The board will consider routine financial approvals, personnel changes, 2024 licenses, and several contract renewals, followed by a Committee of the Whole session for 2024 budget line-item reviews.

• Administer Oath of Office to District 5 Commissioner Dale N. Erickson
• Approve October summarized payment listing, payroll, and ACH vendor payments
• Approve 2024 liquor and tobacco licenses
• Approve 2024 Motorola Service Agreement renewal
• Award contracts for waste canister attendants

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board of Commissioners is meeting as a committee of the whole to review the 2024 budget line items for several departments, including Sheriff/Public Safety, Public Health & Human Services, Assessor, Recorder, and Veterans Service Office. They will also discuss nuisance expenses related to environmental services. The agenda is primarily a working session for budget review and administrative items.

• Environmental Services – Nuisance Expenses
• 2024 Budget Line-Item Reviews: Sheriff/Public Safety
• 2024 Budget Line-Item Reviews: Public Health & Human Services
• 2024 Budget Line-Item Reviews: Assessor, Recorder, Veterans Service Office
• Airport (agenda item listed, no details provided)

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will consider routine financial approvals, including the 2024 fee schedule, claims, and an airport budget request. They will also review a rezoning and conditional use permit, award bids for panic buttons and a lowboy trailer, and discuss purchasing a lawn mower. The meeting includes several contract renewals and an audit review.

• Approve 2024 County Fee Schedule
• Consider Approval of Airport Budget Funding Request
• Consider Combined Parcel Rezoning #REZ2305 and Conditional Use Permit #CUP2305
• Award Low Bid for Purchase of Lowboy Trailer
• Review and Award Bid for Panic Buttons

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board of Commissioners is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting to review line items in the 2024 budget, including external funding requests from local organizations and the court-appointed attorney budget. This is a discussion and review session, not a final decision-making meeting.

• External budget requests from Borderland Humane Society, Citizens for Backus, Koochiching County Historical Society, KEDA, Servants of Shelter, Drug Court, Koochiching Tech Initiative, Extension, and Northome CEDA
• Further review of court-appointed attorney budget

County Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss financial reports, human resource updates, and administrative changes. The meeting includes a Committee of the Whole session to review 2024 budget line-items for several departments.

• Set 2024 County Board Salary
• Golf Course Research and Market Study
• Amending Administration Five Year Copier Lease
• Addition of Departmental Credit Card Terminals for electronic payments
• 2024 Budget Line-Item Reviews for Attorney, Court System, and Land & Forestry

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board of Commissioners is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting to walk through a property at 2079 County Road 109 in International Falls. The purpose is to review a storage building project and discuss concerns related to a combined parcel rezoning request (#REZ 2305) and a conditional use permit request (#CUP 2305).

• Walkthrough of property at 2079 County Road 109, International Falls
• Review of storage building project
• Combined Parcel Rezoning request #REZ 2305
• Conditional Use Permit request #CUP 2305

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will meet to approve routine claims, set the preliminary 2024 tax levy, and consider several contracts and personnel actions. They will also review two combined rezoning and conditional use permit applications and discuss the 2023 budget line items.

• Set preliminary 2024 County Tax Levy
• Approve Rural Fire Protection Association 2024 Rate Structure
• Approve Contract Renewal – Annual Audit
• Consider Combined Parcel Rezoning #REZ2306 and Conditional Use Permit #CUP2306
• Consider Combined Parcel Rezoning #REZ2305 and Conditional Use Permit #CUP2305

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board of Commissioners is meeting as a Committee of the Whole to review applications for the Public Health and Human Services Director position and select interviewees. They will also conduct a financial review with the Auditor/Treasurer and discuss the 2024 budgets for the Highway Department and the overall county budget/levy.

• Review Public Health and Human Services Director applications and select interviewees
• Auditor/Treasurer County Financial Review
• 2024 Budget Review – Highway
• 2024 County Budget/Levy Review

County Board of Commissioners

The board approved the 2024 taxing district levy requests for fire protection services and several subordinate service districts. It also adopted a $151,680.20 grant agreement for the International Falls‑Koochiching County Airport and increased county credit‑card limits. Additional actions included allocating $331,024 from the Great Northern Transmission Line tax revenue and approving a full‑time deputy staffing model.

• Approved 2024 fire protection taxing district levies (various amounts) – unanimous
• Approved 2024 subordinate service taxing district levies (various amounts) – unanimous
• Allocated $331,024 of Great Northern Transmission Line tax revenue per Board Motion 2018/02-27 – unanimous
• Increased county credit‑card limit from $17,000 to $25,000 and temporary Environmental Services limit to $10,000 – unanimous
• Adopted $151,680.20 grant agreement for International Falls‑Koochiching County Airport – unanimous
• Approved full‑time deputy staffing model to convert four part‑time deputies – unanimous
• Awarded $40,600 Black Bay Dock replacement contract to RLB Inc. – unanimous
• Approved new Pitney Bowes postage meter four‑year lease for $35,467.68 – unanimous

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold a regular meeting to approve routine financial claims, personnel changes, and several contracts, including an emergency management grant and a contract with the Western Lake Superior Sanitary Sewer District. They will also review timber auction results and set 2024 auction dates.

• Approve Emergency Management Grant Agreement
• Approve Contract with Western Lake Superior Sanitary Sewer District
• Approve Carpool Request to Sell Two County Vehicles via Silent Bid
• Approve Revision of Koochiching County Breastfeeding Policy
• Review August Timber Auction Results

The Board approved the schematic design for the Jail Project and authorized signatories for airport grants totaling over $900,000. Other actions included approving various department claims, personnel changes, and the purchase of emergency communications equipment.

• Approved Jail Project Schematic Design and authorized Design Development documents (4-0)
• Pre-approved signatories for Falls International Airport grants totaling $768,788.77 (federal) and $139,430.89 (state) (4-0)
• Approved Courthouse claims of $267,969.16 and Highway claims of $61,746.29 (4-0)
• Awarded $19,018.00 bid to Duluth Superior Communications for three mobile squad radios (4-0)
• Approved $6,250.00 to convert ARMER radio system to Ethernet Connection (4-0)
• Approved five-year contract with Western Lake Superior Sanitary District for hazardous waste program (4-0)
• Approved tax abatement for MEND International Falls, LLC, Parcel #92-004-01032 (4-0)
• Set 2024 timber auction dates for Jan 31, May 1, Aug 7, and Nov 6 (4-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold its regular meeting on August 8, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. in the County Boardroom. The board will consider approving a tax court settlement after a closed session, hear a 2024 budget proposal from the Arrowhead Regional Corrections Director, and authorize solicitations for quotes on equipment. Several routine financial and personnel items are also on the agenda.

• Consider approval of tax court settlement after closed session under attorney-client privilege
• Wally Kostich, Arrowhead Regional Corrections Director, to present 2024 budget proposal
• Authorize Highway Department to solicit quotes for front end loader pallet forks
• Authorize Complex Director to solicit quotes for panic buttons
• Approve employment separation of part-time E911 dispatcher/correction officer and authorize filling vacancy

The Board approved over $1.4 million in payroll and claims and resolved a tax court settlement regarding a property valuation. They also authorized bids for courthouse panic buttons and equipment for the Highway Department.

• Approved July payroll and vendor payments of $1,308,492.23 (4-0)
• Approved Courthouse claims of $83,393.51 and Highway claims of $77,791.73 (4-0)
• Approved void of warrant #46477 for $739.00 (4-0)
• Approved employment separation of Kane Kostiuk and filling the vacant position (4-0)
• Resolved litigation with Tractor Supply Company to reduce 2022 valuation of PID #92-004-01032 to $480,050 (4-0)
• Authorized Highway Department to purchase pallet forks for JD 644L Loader if quotes are under $12,500 (4-0)
• Authorized Complex Director to seek bids for panic buttons in Courthouse Complex, Forestland Annex, Veterans Service Office, and Court Administration (4-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold its regular meeting on August 1, 2023, addressing routine approvals, a closed session on tax litigation, and several land-use and contract items. Key actions include a possible tax court settlement, a health authority service contract, and three combined rezoning and conditional use permits.

• Close session under attorney-client privilege to discuss pending tax court litigation, then consider approval of tax court settlement
• Consider approval of Health Authority Service Contract (Sheriff's Office)
• Authorize Highway Department to solicit quotes for pallet forks
• Consider combined parcel rezoning and conditional use permits #2302, #2303, #2304
• Adopt resolution to approve NE MN Regional Solid Waste Management Plan

The County Board denied a request to rezone a residential property at 2291 Town Road 342 into a short-term vacation rental. The board also approved a new Administration Director and renewed a jail health services contract. Election judges and board members for the 2023 elections were appointed.

• Approved appointment of Adam Coe as Administration Director (4-0)
• Approved renewal of Jail Health Authority Services contract with Rainy Lake Medical Center (4-0)
• Appointed election judges, Canvassing Board, and Absentee and UOCAVA Ballot Boards (4-0)
• Denied rezoning and conditional use permit for short-term rental at 2291 Town Road 342 (2-2)

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold its regular meeting on July 25, 2023, to approve routine financial claims, personnel actions, and several contracts. They will also consider IT upgrades, a tax-forfeited parcel cleanup, and set an additional meeting for August 1.

• Approve MnDOT Contract No. 1053281 for airport maintenance and operation
• Award Project CP 2023-04 Hwy 6 & 36 Crack Seal and Mastic Repair
• Award Project CP 2023-05 Silverdale Crushing
• Award Project CP 2023-06 CR 72 Mill and Overlay
• Approve renewal of Hasbargen's Foster Home Housing Support Agreement

The Board approved several infrastructure contracts, including road repairs and crushing projects. Other key actions included appointing a new Auditor/Treasurer and authorizing various IT server and software upgrades.

• Awarded CR 72 Mill and Overlay to Mesabi Bituminous for $362,801.55
• Awarded 2023 Silverdale Crushing to Mark Sand & Gravel for $233,350.00
• Awarded CSAH 6 & 36 Crack Seal and Mastic repair to Northwest Asphalt & Maintenance for $196,569.90
• Appointed Joan Nelson to Auditor/Treasurer following Tom West's resignation
• Approved $222,892 total grant for Airport Maintenance and Operation (2024-2025)
• Approved unbudgeted Windows server upgrades not to exceed $19,514
• Approved Office 365 license renewals for $41,140.10
• Approved cleanup and demolition of structures on specific tax-forfeited properties

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold a regular meeting, preceded by a Koochiching Development Authority (KDA) meeting. The board will consider approving the employment separation of the Auditor/Treasurer, forming a cannabis committee, accepting a Midco grant award, and transitioning sheriff's deputies to full-time status. The meeting also includes a legislative briefing and discussion on building heating/cooling and highway building removal.

• Approve employment separation of Auditor/Treasurer
• Form Cannabis Committee and appoint members
• Accept Midco Grant Award and approve amendment to cost sharing agreement
• Consider approval of transitioning to full-time deputies
• Approve June payroll, ACH payments, courthouse and highway claims

The Board approved the creation of a Cannabis Committee to regulate cannabis sales and accepted a $3,000 grant for digital literacy training. The Board also accepted the resignation of Auditor/Treasurer Tom West and approved several payment claims totaling over $1.8 million.

• Approved formation of Cannabis Committee (4-0)
• Accepted resignation of Auditor/Treasurer Tom West effective August 31, 2023 (4-0)
• Approved $1,833,272.72 in payroll/ACH payments, $60,865.76 in Courthouse claims, and $17,784.74 in Highway claims (4-0)
• Accepted $3,000 MIDCO Grant Foundation grant for digital literacy training (4-0)
• Approved amendment to Midcontinent Communications Construction Cost Sharing Agreement extending deadline to 12/31/2024 (4-0)
• Approved consideration of Sheriff's request to transition to full-time deputies for 2024 budget (4-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold a public hearing to receive comments on a proposal to vacate a public alley near Hwy 11E, CSAH 20, and CR 93, and will later issue a determination on the application. The board will also consider routine financial approvals, special schedule agreements for correction officers and deputies, a resolution to include sheriff's quarters in new jail construction, and a request for 2024 IRRRB economic development funding. Several housing support and purchase of service agreement renewals are on the agenda, along with a letter of support for a regional solid waste facility.

• Public hearing on vacating public alley near Hwy 11E, CSAH 20, CR 93
• Resolution to include Sheriff's Quarters in new jail construction
• Resolution to request 2024 IRRRB Economic Development funding
• Approve payment of 2nd half of budget appropriations
• Approve renewals of multiple housing support agreements (HSA)

The Board authorized modifying the county jail project to include a new Sheriff's residence and the issuance of obligations up to $24 million. Other actions included approving budget allocations, labor agreements for corrections and deputy staff, and various service contract renewals.

• Approved modification of jail project to include Sheriff's residence and obligations up to $24M (4-0)
• Approved second half of 2023 Budget Allocations for $149,273.50 (4-0)
• Approved Special Schedule Agreements for LELs Local #102 and Local #103 (4-0)
• Approved application for FY 2024 IRRRB economic development funding (4-0)
• Approved vacation of public alley in Rainy Lake Addition to Ranier (4-0)
• Approved Courthouse claims of $255,029.93 and Highway claims of $78,368.31 (4-0)
• Approved agreement to act as fiscal agent for Northome Ridge Runners ATV/Snowmobile trail (4-0)
• Approved letter of support for General Waste landfill conversion in Keewatin (4-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board approved a resolution to request $968,500 from the 2024 State Capitol Budget to demolish the County Administration Building and remove associated underground structures. The county committed to a matching $968,500 Capital Improvement Bond for the $1,937,000 project. Other actions included funding for a fire department truck and approving a jail project matrix.

• Approved resolution to request $968,500 in state funds and issue a $968,500 matching bond to remove the County Administration Building (4-0)
• Approved $4,000 in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds for Birchdale Fire Department to purchase a 2005 International water tank truck (4-0)
• Approved the Koochiching County Jail Project – Approval Matrix (4-0)
• Approved the meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved minutes from the June 13, 2023 regular meeting (4-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold its regular meeting, addressing routine approvals, personnel actions, and several contracts. Key items include a resolution for the 2024 state capital budget request, a lease agreement with the MN Department of Public Safety for the Armory, and a committee-of-the-whole discussion on jail project bond issuance. The board will also consider the 2023 County Board of Equalization appeals.

• Approve lease agreement with MN Department of Public Safety for Armory
• Adopt resolution to submit 2024 State Capital Budget Request
• Award CP 2023-03, 2023 Striping Contract
• Authorize engineer to receive quotes for CP 2023-05 Silverdale Crushing and CP 2023-06 CR 72 Mill and Overlay
• Committee of the Whole: Jail Project Bond Issuance Review

The Board approved a list of six high-priority bridges for replacement or rehabilitation through 2028. Other actions included approving payroll and claims, awarding a striping contract, and authorizing several personnel hires and promotions.

• Adopted Bridge Prioritization list for six bridges with projected costs up to $2M (4-0)
• Awarded Project CP 2023-03 Striping bid to Sir Lines-A-Lot LLC for $58,180.38 (4-0)
• Approved payroll and payroll ACH payments of $1,256,453.84 (4-0)
• Approved 5-year lease with State of MN for motorcycle testing at County Armory (4-0)
• Increased Courtroom roof AC replacement budget from $9,000 to $15,000 (4-0)
• Approved recognition of Juneteenth as a State holiday and office closure on June 19 (4-0)
• Approved sale of up to 500 yards of pit run gravel to Voyageur Country ATV Club at $1.75/yard (4-0)
• Appointed LuAnn Henrickson to the Housing Redevelopment Authority board (4-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board and Koochiching Development Authority will hold regular meetings, including considering funding for a Lead For America American Connection Corps member. The board will also handle routine approvals, including claims, hires, and bids for various projects.

• Consider funding for Lead For America American Connection Corps member
• Authorize seeking bids for courtroom AC unit
• Authorize bids for Project CP 2023-04
• Award 2023 hired truck rental
• Authorize purchase of three 1/2 ton small fleet trucks

The Board of Commissioners approved a $1,506,850.61 contract for Wagner Construction and authorized various equipment and software purchases. They also updated the Donated Sick Leave Policy and accepted bids for beaver trapping and truck rentals.

• Awarded SAP 036-624-023 and CP 2023-02 to Wagner Construction for $1,506,850.61
• Approved $18,662.40 for replacement of 15 end user systems
• Authorized purchase of up to three 1/2 ton trucks at $48,000 each using $100,000 in ARPA funds
• Approved $3,600 for tax processing software and a $3,000 budget transfer
• Authorized $9,000 for Courtroom roof top air conditioning replacement
• Approved $200,000 MPCA Grant Contract for Jackfish-RLRV project with $50,000 ARPA match
• Approved OneGov permitting software for Planning and Zoning at $11,500 for year one
• Modified Donated Sick Leave Policy eligibility and established a review committee

Koochiching Development Authority

The Koochiching County Board of Commissioners will hold a joint meeting with the Koochiching Development Authority (KDA) on May 23, 2023. The KDA will consider funding a Lead For America American Connection Corps member, while the county board will handle routine business including claims, hires, and project awards. The board will also discuss landowner concerns with a recent MN DNR land survey and continue discussions on sheriff deputies.

• Consider funding Lead For America American Connection Corps Member
• Authorize Complex Director to Seek Bids for Courtroom AC Unit
• Award the 2023 Hired Truck Rental
• Authorize ES Director to Enter into State of Minnesota Koochiching County Jackfish-RLRV Sanitary Design and Construction Project MPCA Grant Contract
• Discuss Landowner Concerns with Recent MN DNR Land Survey

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold its regular meeting on May 9, 2023, covering routine approvals and several notable items. Actions include approving liquor licenses, personnel changes, a cooperative dock agreement with the MN DNR, and setting a public hearing for a vacation of a public alley. The board will also discuss the sheriff deputy staffing and review a regional solid waste plan in the Committee of the Whole.

• Approve 2023 Liquor Licenses for Smothered Goose LLC
• Approve employment demotion of two full-time E911 Dispatcher/Correction Officers to part-time and authorize filling vacancies
• Consider approval of Cooperative Dock Agreement with MN DNR
• Set public hearing for vacation of public alley
• Authorize engineer to purchase three ½ ton Ram Quad Cab Trucks

The Board approved several personnel changes, including the separation of the Public Health and Human Services Director. Other key actions included authorizing the purchase of three fleet trucks and approving a liquor license for Smothered Goose LLC.

• Increased Island View Sanitary Sewer Debt Service Fee from $10.19 to $30.19 (3-0)
• Approved $1,244,121.98 in April payroll and ACH payments (3-0)
• Approved employment separation of Public Health and Human Services Director (3-0)
• Approved On and Off Sale and Sunday Intoxicating Liquor License for Smothered Goose LLC (3-0)
• Authorized purchase of three 1/2 ton fleet trucks for $115,482.00 (3-0)
• Approved 10-year public water access agreement with MN Department of Natural Resources (3-0)
• Approved St. Louis County Sheriff’s office mutual aid agreement (3-0)
• Scheduled June 27 public hearing for public alley vacation near Hwy 11E, CSAH 20 and CR 93 (3-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold its regular meeting, starting with the oath of office for newly elected District 3 Commissioner Adam McIntyre. The board will consider routine approvals including meeting minutes, financial claims, temporary hires, and a bid for garage door replacements. They will also discuss supporting a NACo/WIR public lands counties initiative and review several informational items.

• Administer Oath of Office to District 3 Commissioner Adam McIntyre
• Approve Courthouse, Highway, and Public Health and Human Service Claims
• Approve temp hires for Veteran's Services and Sheriff's Office transport drivers
• Award bid for replacement of 3 garage doors at LEC
• Authorize Sentencing to Serve Program contract and AIS inspection contracts

The Board approved several facility and service contracts, including garage door replacements for the Law Enforcement Center and a state contract for the Sentencing to Service program. They also authorized agreements for Aquatic Invasive Species prevention and appointed members to the Solid Waste Advisory Committee.

• Approved Courthouse claims of $365,081.51, Highway claims of $30,888.53, and Public Health and Human Service claims (4-0)
• Approved structural review for Public Health and Human Services building by Northland Consulting Engineers, cost not to exceed $5,000 (4-0)
• Approved $1,000 contribution over two years to the National Center for Public Lands Counties (4-0)
• Approved $17,395.00 bid from Overhead Door Company of Hibbing for three garage doors and openers at Law Enforcement Center, plus $1,500.00 for a fourth door repair (4-0)
• Approved Sentencing to Service program contract with State of MN for $155,254.96 (4-0)
• Appointed John Cann and Jody Reller to the Koochiching County Solid Waste Advisory Committee (4-0)
• Authorized DNR Special Use Permit for AIS prevention activities at Public Water Access sites (4-0)
• Authorized agreement with North St. Louis County SWCD for AIS watercraft inspection program on Lake Kabetogama and Ash River (4-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold its regular meeting, approving routine financial items, licenses, and grant-related requests. A key discussion item is the local option sales tax referendum, which could affect residents if placed on a ballot.

• Approve March summarized payment listing, payroll, ACH payments, courthouse and highway claims
• Approve 2023 seasonal liquor licenses
• Approve ARDC request for letter of support for intrastate funding formula
• Approve MnDOT Air Service Marketing Grant
• Discuss local option sales tax referendum

The Board approved a $21,530 grant for air service marketing at the International Falls-Koochiching County Airport. They also authorized a new contract with Northern Disposal/Zach Dahlen for centralized waste canisters. Additional actions included approving payroll, liquor licenses, and a facility assessment for health and human services.

• Approved $21,530 grant for Air Service Marketing for International Falls-Koochiching County Airport (3-0)
• Approved new contract with Northern Disposal/Zach Dahlen for centralized waste canisters (3-0)
• Approved March payroll and ACH payments of $1,272,131.36, Courthouse claims of $64,240.18, and Highway claims of $88,689.13 (3-0)
• Approved seasonal liquor licenses for Island View Lodge and Sha Sha Resort (3-0)
• Approved facility assessment for Public Health and Human Services housing by ICS not to exceed $2,560 (3-0)
• Approved submission of a Bush Foundation Community Innovation Grant application by Koochiching Technology Initiative (3-0)
• Approved amendments to the County Television Maintenance Contract regarding billing and contractor status (3-0)
• Approved letter of support for a more equitable Intrastate Funding Formula for Older American Act services (3-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board of Commissioners is scheduled to approve financial claims for the courthouse, highway, and public health departments. The board will also adopt a resolution to proceed with new jail construction and approve a television maintenance contract. Additionally, the meeting includes updates on water levels and the approval of several service agreements and appointments.

• Adopt Resolution to Move Forward with New Jail Construction
• Approve Koochiching County Television Maintenance Contract
• Approve Courthouse, Highway, and Public Health and Human Services Claims
• Approve 2021 Stonegarden Grant and Authorize Board Signature
• Approve Renewal of LSS Guardianship, ODC Supported Employment, and ODC Day Support Services POS Agreements

The Board approved moving into 'Part B' of the jail replacement project, which involves the design and construction of a 40-bed facility. Other actions included approving various grants, maintenance agreements, and committee appointments.

• Authorized design and construction of a 40-bed, 22,700 sq ft jail (3-0)
• Approved $7,500 quarterly maintenance agreement with Up North Electric, LLC (3-0)
• Approved 2021 Stonegarden Grant for $148,500 (3-0)
• Approved 2023 Boat and Water Safety Grant for $6,376 (3-0)
• Approved Courthouse claims of $13,462.83 and Highway claims of $6,746.28 (3-0)
• Approved $6,640.86 for emergency sewer repairs at Law Enforcement Center (3-0)
• Appointed David Burchell and Dave Harder to Solid Waste Advisory Committee (3-0)
• Tabled garage door replacement pending additional bidder information (3-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold its regular meeting on March 21, 2023, covering routine approvals and several notable items. Key actions include a first reading of a resolution authorizing construction of a new jail facility, a resolution supporting reconsideration of the Indus School closure, and approval of employment promotions. The board will also consider various contracts, permits, and resolutions related to law enforcement, highways, and environmental services.

• First reading of resolution authorizing construction of new jail facility
• Resolution and letter of support for reconsideration of Indus School closure
• Ratify purchase of replacement transport vehicle and transfer from administration contingency
• Adopt resolution approving Master Joint Powers Agreement with Bureau of Criminal Apprehension
• Authorize highway department to advertise for bids on projects LOW SAP 036-624-023 and CP 2023-02

The Board approved the first reading of a resolution to proceed with the design and construction of a 40-bed jail. The board also passed a resolution supporting the remaining open status of the Indus School and approved several key personnel appointments.

• Authorized implementation of jail replacement project Option A (3-0)
• Adopted resolution supporting Indus School remaining open (3-0)
• Appointed Carissa MacLean as Veteran Service Officer (3-0)
• Appointed Trent Nicholson as County Engineer (3-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for Shot Rock Properties, LLC rock quarry (3-0)
• Designated 112 miles of roads as Unorganized Territory Roads (3-0)
• Approved Joint Powers Agreements for criminal justice data network access (3-0)
• Ratified $12,950 purchase of replacement inmate transport vehicle (3-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold its regular meeting, covering routine approvals, personnel actions, and several department-specific purchases. Key items include appointing a new highway engineer, adopting a resolution for a special/primary election for District 5 commissioner, and discussing a local option sales tax update.

• Appoint Assistant Highway Engineer to Highway Engineer and conduct oath of office
• Adopt resolution approving special/primary election for District 5 Commissioner
• Approve renewal of 2023 Children's Mental Health Grant
• Authorize purchase of Trimble Survey Controller, diagnostic scanner tablet, and Hotsy pressure washer/culvert steamer
• Discuss local option sales tax update

The Board approved a resolution to hold a special election for the District 5 Commissioner seat following the death of Commissioner Wayne Skoe. The Board also approved several equipment purchases and allocated trust fund income for resource and park development.

• Called for special election for District 5 Commissioner (3-0)
• Approved $36,258.11 for Human Services technology equipment (3-0)
• Approved $150,000 for timber/resource and $40,000 for park development reserves (3-0)
• Approved $10,698.00 purchase of a 2023 Ski-Doo Tundra LT snowmobile (3-0)
• Approved $8,739.90 purchase of a Trimble TSC7 Survey Controller (3-0)
• Approved $13,278 purchase of a Bosch 3824A Diagnostic Scan Tool (3-0)
• Approved $11,726.86 purchase of a Pressure Washer/Culvert Steamer (3-0)
• Appointed Destry Hell to One Watershed, One Plan Policy Committee (3-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board will hold its regular meeting, covering routine approvals of payments, personnel changes, and several substantive items. Key actions include accepting a memorandum of understanding for housing inmates in a new jail, authorizing requests for proposals for lobbying and county-wide ambulance services, and considering a broadband project. The agenda also includes resolutions, land and forestry items, and a public comment period.

• Accept Lake of the Woods MOU for housing inmates in a new jail facility
• Authorize RFP for county-wide ambulance services
• Consider approval of Hwy 332 and Co Rd 155 broadband project
• Approve purchase of Canon wide format printer for Recorder
• Award local bid for purchase of 2023 Ram pickup

The Board approved a broadband expansion project for the Highway 332 S and County Road 155 corridor and a memorandum of understanding to lease inmate housing in a new jail facility. They also authorized RFPs for lobbying services and county-wide ambulance services.

• Approved broadband project for Hwy 332 S/CR 155 corridor contingent on grant and city match
• Approved MOU with Lake of the Woods for inmate housing lease
• Authorized RFP for lobbying services for facility improvement funding
• Authorized RFP for county-wide ambulance services
• Approved $1,249,948.80 for January payroll and ACH payments
• Approved $306,221 MCIT annual insurance claim
• Awarded $11,342.74 printer bid to Loffler
• Awarded $39,300 Ram 1500 bid to Wherley Motors (minus $7,000 trade-in)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board approved several funding requests, including a DNR grant for boat equipment and a compensation increase for the Emergency Management Coordinator. They also authorized the creation of a part-time Transfer Station/Recycling Center Generalist position. A request from the Koochiching Sportsmen’s Association regarding a deed error was referred to the Board Chair for review.

• Approved Courthouse claims ($131,144.15), Highway claims ($69,874.76), and Public Health and Human Service claims
• Approved payment of 2022 dues for various organizations including AMC, MN Rural Counties, and NACo
• Approved DNR grant of $28,676 for a 250HP boat motor and 12 rock markers for Rainy Lake
• Approved 2023 Emergency Management Coordinator contract increasing monthly pay from $2,000 to $2,700
• Authorized Land Commissioner to seek bids for one 2023 Land and Forestry truck
• Approved MnDOT signage replacement project for the Transfer Station not to exceed $5,142
• Approved permanent part-time Transfer Station/Recycling Center Generalist position
• Approved renewal of AEOA Volunteer Driver and NEMOJT POS Agreements and amendment to 2023 AEOA STAY POS Agreement

County Board of Commissioners

The Board scheduled a special election for the District 3 County Commissioner seat, with dates set for April 11 and potentially August 8, 2023. The Board also approved several payment claims, board appointments, and a property repurchase.

• Called for special election for District 3 Commissioner vacancy (4-0)
• Approved payroll and payments totaling $1,780,212.40, Courthouse claims of $54,173.55, and Highway claims of $67,767.99 (4-0)
• Appointed Commissioner Hell to Arrowhead Regional Development Commission Board for a three-year term (4-0)
• Temporarily appointed Commissioner Roche to Arrowhead Regional Development Commission board (4-0)
• Authorized $50,000 annual Employee Dishonesty and Faithful Performance Bond (4-0)
• Approved repurchase of tax-forfeited property at Pleasant Acres, International Falls (4-0)
• Authorized seeking bids for three garage doors and openers at the Law Enforcement Center (4-0)
• Ratified Public Health and Human Service 2022 year-end claims (4-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Koochiching County Board and Koochiching Development Authority will hold a joint meeting to elect 2023 board chairs, approve financial items including 2023 budget allocations and year-end payments, set the mileage reimbursement rate, and consider several resolutions and appointments. The agenda includes routine administrative actions and a public comment period.

• Election of 2023 KDA Board Chair and Vice Chair
• Election of 2023 County Board Chair and Vice Chair
• Ratify 2022 Year End Payments
• Approve Payment of First Half 2023 Budget Allocations
• Set 2023 Mileage Reimbursement Rate

The Board elected a Chair and Vice Chair and approved the first half of 2023 budget allocations for several local organizations. Other actions included ratifying year-end warrants, setting vehicle mileage rates, and approving the county's depository banks.

• Elected Jason Sjoblom as Board Chair and Destry Hell as Vice Chair (Unanimous)
• Ratified 2022 year-end Courthouse warrants ($84,706.29) and Highway warrants ($48,440.87)
• Approved first half 2023 budget allocations for 10 organizations, including $39,250 for Koochiching Historical Museum
• Set 2023 personal vehicle mileage reimbursement at 65.50 cents per mile
• Awarded 2023 legal publication bid to the Rainy Lake Gazette
• Adopted resolution to enroll part-time deputies in the PERA Police and Fire Plan
• Authorized application for a $50,000 Affordable Connectivity Outreach Grant
• Approved employment separation of a full time E911 Dispatcher/Corrections Officer and authorized filling the vacancy