Itasca County public meetings in 2021

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved several collective bargaining agreements for 2022-2024, including for the Health & Human Services Unit (Local 580), Courthouse Unit (Local 1626), and Itasca County Managers Association (ICMA), each with 2% wage increases in 2022 and 2023 and 2.65% in 2024. The Board also authorized a 2% wage increase for appointed officials, approved a $34,500 lobbyist contract with Loren Solberg Consulting, and approved a $66,000 fairgrounds property management contract. All votes were 4-0 with Commissioner Davin Tinquist absent.

• Approved 2022-2024 labor contracts for Local 580, Local 1626, and ICMA (4-0)
• Authorized 2% wage increase for appointed officials (4-0)
• Approved $34,500 lobbyist contract with Loren Solberg Consulting (4-0)
• Approved $66,000 fairgrounds property management contract (4-0)
• Approved health insurance MOUs for multiple labor groups (4-0)
• Approved Safe Routes to School grant sponsorship for Deer River (4-0)
• Approved 2022-2024 MOA with University of Minnesota Extension (4-0)
• Approved employee expense reimbursements over 60 days (3-0, 1 abstention)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority approved a revised Rail Car Storage Agreement with All Rail Inc., dba Northern Plains Railroad Services, contingent on approval by Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) and the County Attorney. The board also authorized the Chairperson and Clerk to sign the agreement. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with approval of the agenda and prior minutes.

• Approved revised Rail Car Storage Agreement with All Rail Inc. dba Northern Plains Railroad Services (4-0)
• Authorized ICRRA Chairperson and Clerk to sign the agreement
• Approved agenda as presented (4-0)
• Approved minutes of November 9, 2021 meeting (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board held a public meeting and adopted the 2022 property tax levy of $41,266,142, a decrease of $414 from 2021, and approved the 2022 budget with $116,250,702 in revenue and $157,716,844 in expenditures. The board also approved several other actions, including issuing $1.8 million in nursing home refunding bonds, authorizing participation in multistate opioid settlements, and setting 2022 salaries for elected officials. A requested tipping fee increase from Waste Management was recommended for a future meeting.

• Adopted 2022 county levy of $41,266,142 and $157.7M budget (5-0)
• Approved $1.8M General Obligation Nursing Home Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series 2021A (4-0)
• Authorized participation in multistate opioid settlements with distributors and manufacturers (5-0)
• Set 2022 salaries: County Attorney $134,386.16, Auditor/Treasurer $133,770.60, Recorder $92,522.93, Sheriff $130,208.48 (each 4-1)
• Set 2022 Commissioner salary at $35,189.59; Chair at $36,389.59 (3-2)
• Approved $1,730,208.96 in Commissioner Warrants (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including 2022 liquor/tobacco licenses and COVID-19 response contracts (4-0)
• Recommended Waste Management tipping fee increase of $7.62/ton for 12/21/2021 meeting

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment tabled a conditional use permit for a resort expansion due to weather-cancelled site inspections, and approved two variance applications for sewage treatment and cabin construction near lakes. All decisions were unanimous.

• Tabled Rodney Ernhart/Dream Life LLC CUP for resort expansion (5-0)
• Approved William & Barbara Manney variance for sewage treatment 63' from OHWL of Sturgeon Lake (5-0)
• Approved Gary & Teresa Tonneslan variance for cabin addition and deck roof near State Hwy. 38 (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board held a work session on December 7, 2021, and approved several items, including authorizing the County Administrator to request the ItascaCountyMN.gov domain and authorizing the IT Director to initiate network vulnerability scans by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). The board also recommended eight items for the consent agenda at the next regular meeting, including 2022 Health and Human Services contracts, COVID-19 response contracts, and a reduction in retainage for the CSAH 52 grading project. The meeting was informational for several updates, including the Canisteo Pit and probation department.

• Authorized County Administrator to sign .gov domain request letter (3-0)
• Authorized IT Director to sign CISA vulnerability scanning forms (3-0)
• Approved agenda and prior meeting minutes (3-0)
• Recommended 2022 HHS Purchase of Service Contracts for consent
• Recommended 2022 COVID-19 response contracts for consent
• Recommended IMCare provider agreement with Vieau Counseling for consent
• Recommended CSAH 52 retainage reduction to $25,029.45 for consent
• Recommended Swan River garage bond fund transfer for consent

County Board

The Itasca County Board met in special session and voted 5-0 to enter closed session to consult with the county attorney on ERPI bankruptcy litigation, citing attorney-client privilege. After returning to open session, MagIron presented a general overview of a purchase option offered to the Bankruptcy Court, including a cash offer and future lienholder compensation. The board then voted 5-0 to enter a second closed session on the same matter. No formal action was taken on the bankruptcy issue itself.

• Approved 5-0 entering closed session for attorney consultation on ERPI bankruptcy litigation
• Approved 5-0 returning to open session
• Approved 5-0 entering a second closed session for attorney consultation on ERPI bankruptcy litigation
• Received informational presentation from MagIron on purchase option to Bankruptcy Court

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting to receive an update on the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Fund. The board will also review ARP funding requests and schedule a special session.

• American Rescue Plan (ARP) Fund update
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding requests

The Itasca County Board received an update on American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds, noting $3,840,515 in requests had already been approved. The board approved $948,543.90 for fire department equipment and approved $250,000 for the City of Bigfork's Community & School Enhancement Project. The board also voted to schedule a special session for January 11, 2022, to consider additional ARP funding requests.

• Approved $948,543.90 in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds for fire department equipment requests.
• Approved $250,000 in ARP funds for the City of Bigfork's Community & School Enhancement Project.
• Scheduled a special session for January 11, 2022, to consider additional ARP funding requests.

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved $5,000 in Tourism and Economic Development (TED) funds for Blackberry Township, split between the 2021 ($1,829) and 2022 ($3,171) accounts. The board also recommended six items for the consent agenda, including the 2022 meeting schedule, commissioner per diems and reimbursable expenses, a Water Plan Implementation Committee appointment, HHS Advisory Committee minutes, and a Conservation Partners Legacy Grant application. Informational updates were received on the Land Department annual report, the County Attorney's office, and COVID-19, with no action taken.

• Approved $5,000 TED request from Blackberry Township (5-0)
• Recommended 2022 County Board meeting schedule for consent agenda
• Recommended commissioner per diem resolution for consent agenda
• Recommended reimbursable expenses resolution for consent agenda
• Recommended Perry Loegering appointment to WPIC for consent agenda
• Recommended accepting HHS Advisory Committee minutes for consent agenda
• Recommended authorizing Conservation Partners Legacy Grant application for consent agenda
• Held closed sessions for labor negotiations and administrator performance review

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority held a brief regular session, approving the agenda and prior meeting minutes. The only substantive action was adopting a resolution establishing the 2022 regular meeting schedule and special meeting notice procedure, all by a 4-0 vote with one commissioner absent.

• Approved agenda as presented (4-0)
• Approved minutes of October 12, 2021 meeting (4-0)
• Adopted resolution establishing 2022 regular meeting schedule and special meeting notice procedure (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved Phase 2 Correctional/Court Facility construction contracts, including bid package Alternate #1, pending County Attorney review. The board also approved $2,174,771.66 in commissioner warrants, a $50,512 seedling contract, and two tourism/economic development requests. A motion to change the process for approving open positions failed in a 2-2 vote.

• Approved Phase 2 Correctional/Court Facility construction contracts including Alternate #1 (4-0)
• Approved commissioner warrants totaling $2,174,771.66 (4-0)
• Awarded 2023 Containerized Seedling Contract to PRT USA, Inc. for $50,512.00 (4-0)
• Approved $10,000 TED account request from Buck Lake Improvement Club (4-0)
• Approved $5,000 TED account request from Thrive Up North (4-0)
• Approved repurchase of tax-forfeited land by John D. Childs for $6,233.44 (4-0)
• Approved service contract with Architectural Resources, Inc. for $30,750.00 (4-0)
• Motion to change open positions approval process failed (2-2)

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved additional funding up to $66,142.05 for the 2021 Firewise Program, approved the sale of a tax-forfeited building to the City of Keewatin for $100, and approved a communications services proposal from Rapp Strategies for the Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) referendum. The board also approved sending a letter to the DNR requesting a Canisteo Pit dewatering presentation and committed to a $40,000 contribution for the Visit Grand Rapids ARPA tourism grant application.

• Approved additional Firewise Program funding up to $66,142.05 (5-0)
• Approved sale of tax-forfeited building to City of Keewatin for $100 (5-0)
• Approved Rapp Strategies communications proposal for LOST referendum (5-0)
• Approved sending letter to DNR for Canisteo Pit dewatering presentation (5-0)
• Committed to $40,000 contribution for Visit Grand Rapids ARPA tourism grant (consensus)
• Approved agenda as amended (5-0)
• Approved minutes of October 26, 2021 sessions (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved $1,000,000 in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds for Nashwauk-Keewatin ISD 319, split $500,000 in 2022 and $500,000 in 2023, contingent on the district's February 8, 2022 referendum passing. The board also received informational updates on ARP fund status, external funding requests, and lost revenue calculations, with no action taken on those items. A special session on ARP funding was scheduled for November 23, 2021.

• Approved $1,000,000 ARP funds for Nashwauk-Keewatin ISD 319 (5-0), contingent on Feb 8, 2022 referendum
• Scheduled special session on ARP funding for Nov 23, 2021 at 1:00 PM (5-0)
• Received ARP fund update: $8,765,973 total, $2,840,515 encumbered, $1,542,471.50 remaining (informational)
• Discussed external ARP funding requests from 15 entities (informational)
• Received lost revenue calculation of $816,456 (informational)

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved several items, including a $40,000 contribution to support Visit Grand Rapids' application for an ARPA tourism funding opportunity, and a service contract with Gilbert Contracting Services, Inc. for campsite development at Bass Lake Park with a not-to-exceed amount of $31,779.75. The board also approved the sale of tax-forfeited land to the City of Cohasset for $3,937.00, and authorized the final sponsorship of the Grant-in-Aid Wilderness ATV/OHM Trail. An item regarding eminent domain on CSAH 60 was pulled from the agenda.

• Approved $40,000 ARPA tourism funding support for Visit Grand Rapids (5-0)
• Approved $31,779.75 service contract with Gilbert Contracting for Bass Lake Park campsite development (5-0)
• Approved sale of tax-forfeited land to City of Cohasset for $3,937.00 (5-0)
• Approved final sponsorship of GIA Wilderness ATV/OHM Trail (5-0)
• Approved $1,984,826.21 in Commissioner Warrants (5-0)
• Approved $757,511.98 in ICHHS warrants (5-0)
• Approved letter of support for Hope House grant application (5-0)
• Pulled eminent domain item for CSAH 60 from agenda

County Board

The Itasca County Board held a work session on October 19, 2021, and approved a letter regarding the Certificate of Need request for the Elk River Landfill. The board also recommended several items for the consent agenda at the next regular meeting, including a letter of support for Hope House, an eminent domain authorization for the CSAH 60 project, and a timber auction notice. Informational presentations on a local option sales tax and the Dem-Con site in Keewatin were received with no action taken.

• Approved letter regarding Elk River Landfill Certificate of Need request (5-0)
• Recommended letter of support for Hope House grant application for consent agenda
• Recommended authorization of eminent domain for CSAH 60 right-of-way for consent agenda
• Recommended timber auction notice for December 14, 2021 for consent agenda
• Recommended sale of tax-forfeited land to City of Cohasset for $3,937 for consent agenda
• Recommended Wilderness ATV/OHM Trail final sponsorship resolution for consent agenda
• Received Local Option Sales Tax strategies proposal - no action taken
• Received Dem-Con site presentation - no action taken

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment recommended approval of a variance for David & Jeff Almquist to build a 12'x24' dwelling addition 30 feet from the ordinary high water level (OHWL) and install a holding tank 76 feet from the OHWL of Little Long Lake, with conditions. The motion carried unanimously. The board also approved the minutes of the 9/8/2021 hearing and discussed updates on the David salvage yard CUP review, which remains tabled until May 2022.

• Approved minutes of 9/8/2021 hearing (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Almquist variance for dwelling addition at 30' from OHWL and holding tank at 76' from OHWL (unanimous, with conditions)
• Tabled David CUP review (salvage yard) until May 2022 with monthly updates

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority approved a Rail Car Storage Agreement with All Rail Inc., dba Northern Plains Railroad Services, allowing them to store empty rail cars on ICRRA tracks. The agreement, which includes a $2.00 per car per day fee and conditions for hazardous waste cars, was approved unanimously (5-0) and is pending County Attorney approval. The board also approved the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting, and received informational updates on the rail budget and project status.

• Approved Rail Car Storage Agreement with All Rail Inc. dba Northern Plains Railroad Services (5-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved minutes of September 14, 2021 meeting (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved a 2022 proposed tax levy of $41,266,142, a 0% increase over 2021, along with proposed unorganized fire and road & bridge levies, and scheduled a public meeting for December 7, 2021. The board also approved a consent agenda including the sale of tax-forfeited land to Vincent Holsman for $450, a land sale to MnDOT for $7,700, and easements for Paul Bunyan Telephone Coop and Minnesota Power. Commissioner warrants totaling $1,810,813.41 and ICHHS warrants totaling $1,142,560.02 were approved.

• Adopted 2022 proposed tax levy of $41,266,142, a 0% increase (4-0)
• Approved sale of tax-forfeited land to Vincent Holsman for $450 (4-0)
• Approved direct sale of tax-forfeited land to MnDOT for $7,700 (4-0)
• Approved utility easement for Paul Bunyan Telephone Coop (4-0)
• Approved easement to Minnesota Power for solar facility access (4-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants of $1,810,813.41 (4-0)
• Approved ICHHS Warrants of $1,142,560.02 (4-0)
• Approved Purchase of Service with ISD 317 for Whole Families Grant (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved a resolution requesting state disaster assistance for public property damage from the July 27, 2021 severe weather event, and authorized the board chair and county administrator to sign a letter to Governor Walz. The board also approved the purchase of an undivided 1/8 interest in a lakeshore lot for $14,500 from the Land Replacement Trust Fund. Several other items were recommended for the consent agenda at the next regular meeting, including a land exchange support letter, a tax-forfeited land sale, and utility easements.

• Approved resolution requesting state disaster assistance for July 27 storm damage (5-0)
• Approved $14,500 purchase of undivided 1/8 interest in Lot 3, Section 26, Twp 60, Rge 25 (5-0)
• Approved agenda as amended, pulling Balsam Creek Bridge contract and adding disaster assistance item (5-0)
• Approved minutes of September 14, 2021 regular session (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: Letter of support for USFS/Heig land exchange
• Recommended for consent: Sale of tax-forfeited land to Vincent Holsman for $450
• Recommended for consent: Utility easement to Paul Bunyan Telephone Coop
• Recommended for consent: Easement to Minnesota Power for solar facility access

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority approved a $4,898.44 contract with Northern Plains Rail Service for brush cutting on its 14 miles of track, with a 4-0 vote. The board also received informational updates on rail car storage and project status, but took no action on those items.

• Approved brush cutting contract with Northern Plains Rail Service for $4,898.44 (4-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (4-0)
• Approved minutes of August 10, 2021 meeting (4-0)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will consider several land-related items, including tax-forfeited land sales and a highway easement from Blandin Paper Company. The meeting also includes discussions on COVID-19 impacts and a body worn camera policy.

• Tax-forfeited land sales to adjoining landowners and 2021 amended land sales
• Highway easement from Blandin Paper Company in Township 57, Range 24
• Contract for Westlaw on-line legal research services for the County Attorney's Office
• Agreement with Motorola Solutions Inc. for the Itasca County Sheriff
• Final payment for Contract 202107 for aggregate surfacing on township and county roads

The Itasca County Board approved a $415,642.50 purchase of 554 acres of forest land from Boundary Co. for the Land Replacement Trust Fund, and approved warrants totaling $1,959,769.45. The board also set terms for two land sales: a tax-forfeited land sale to adjoining landowners on October 18 and the amended 2021 tax-forfeited and direct county land auction on October 22. All votes were 4-0 with Commissioner Burl Ives absent.

• Approved $415,642.50 purchase of 554 acres of forest land from Boundary Co. (4-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $1,959,769.45 (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2021-54 setting terms for tax-forfeited land sale to adjoining landowners (4-0)
• Adopted amended Resolution 2021-55 for the 2021 tax-forfeited and direct county land auction (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including ILO day services move, road contract final payment, and Blandin easement (4-0)
• Authorized Motorola Solutions agreement for body-worn camera and mobile video equipment (4-0)
• Approved Thomson Reuters Westlaw contract for County Attorney's Office (4-0)
• Adopted Body Worn Camera Policy (4-0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will meet to review the potential revocation of a conditional use permit and a minor subdivision request. The Board of Adjustment will also consider a variance for a garage construction setback. These decisions affect land use and zoning compliance in Bigfork, Marcell, and Lake Jessie Townships.

• Review with intent to revoke Conditional Use Permit #910028 for a junk/salvage yard in Bigfork Township
• Minor Subdivision request for Little Turtle Trails End in Marcell Township
• Variance request for a 32’x24’ garage setback from the Ordinary High Water Level in Lake Jessie Township

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment tabled a review to revoke a conditional use permit for a junk/salvage yard in Bigfork Township until May 2022, allowing the owner time to develop a business plan with the Itasca Economic Development Corporation. The board approved a variance for a 38'x24' garage near Little Turtle Lake and approved a minor subdivision called Little Turtle Trails End in Marcell Township, both unanimously.

• Tabled review of CUP #910028 revocation until May 2022 (4-1, Bellomy nay)
• Approved variance for 38'x24' garage 62' from OHWL of Little Turtle Lake (unanimous)
• Approved minor subdivision Little Turtle Trails End contingent on 7 surveyor items (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 7/14/2021 and 7/29/2021 hearings (unanimous)

County Board

The County Board is conducting a work session to review various projects and policies. The meeting includes discussions on budget scheduling, health insurance options, and body worn camera policies.

• Determination of Need Application for Itasca Life Options (ILO) to move day services locations
• Final payment for Contract 202107 regarding aggregate surfacing on county and unorganized township roads
• Highway Easement from Blandin Paper Company for access to Tax-Forfeit Lands in Section 13, Township 57, Range 24
• Thomson Reuters contract for Westlaw on-line legal research services for the County Attorney's Office
• Discussion of Deer River Safe Routes to School Maintenance Agreement Resolution

The Itasca County Board approved a resolution to maintain the Deer River Safe Routes to School trail, a required step to receive $65,000 in state funds. The board also approved a one-day liquor license for a Delta Waterfowl banquet and scheduled budget work sessions for the 2022 budget and preliminary levy. Several other items were recommended for the consent agenda at the next regular meeting.

• Approved Safe Routes to School maintenance agreement for Deer River trail (4-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Delta Waterfowl banquet at Barn in the Woods (4-0)
• Scheduled 2022 budget work sessions for Sept 20-22 and Oct 18 (4-0)
• Approved agenda as amended, adding one-day liquor license item (4-0)
• Approved minutes of Aug 24 regular and special sessions (4-0)
• Held closed session on land acquisition for 14 parcels (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board held a special session to discuss American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding, receiving updates and presentations but taking no formal action. The board heard from Arvig and Paul Bunyan Communications about broadband expansion options and discussed external and internal funding requests. The only decision was to schedule a follow-up special session on October 26, 2021, at 1:30 PM to continue ARP funding discussions.

• Scheduled a special session on ARP funding for October 26, 2021, at 1:30 PM in the County Boardroom.
• Received an update on ARP funds, noting $8,765,973 allocated to Itasca County, with $2,665,515 already approved.
• Discussed external ARP funding requests from North Central Minnesota Farm and Antique Association ($12,000), Nashwauk-Keewatin ISD 319 ($1,000,000), and City of Nashwauk ($100,000) - no action taken.
• Discussed internal county ARP funding requests from Public Health, Emergency Management, MIS, and Assessor departments - no action taken.
• Received a broadband presentation from Arvig and Paul Bunyan Communications on potential ARP-funded projects - no action taken.

County Board

The County Board will consider several lease extensions, service agreements for housing support, and transportation projects. The board is also scheduled to discuss a grader replacement and a joint powers agreement between the Sheriff's Office and Bovey and Coleraine Police Departments.

• Demolition contract award to American Disposal for $31,500.00
• Purchase of a new 2022 snowmobile not to exceed $12,500
• Terms of sale for the 2021 Tax-Forfeited and Direct County land sale on October 22, 2021
• Sponsor Agreement with Harris Township for the Sunny Beach Road Local Road Improvement Project
• Final payment for bridge replacement project on CR 438

The Itasca County Board approved a consent agenda including a resolution authorizing the 2021 tax-forfeited and direct county land sale, scheduled for October 22, 2021. The board also approved several contracts, including a demolition contract for a blighted property in Pengilly and a joint powers agreement for law enforcement training. A request to replace a failed motor grader was pulled from the agenda.

• Approved 2021 tax-forfeited land sale resolution, auction set for Oct. 22 (4-0)
• Awarded $31,500 demolition contract to American Disposal for Pengilly property (4-0)
• Approved joint powers agreement with Bovey and Coleraine police for field training (4-0)
• Approved $1,499,483.43 in commissioner warrants (4-0)
• Approved $1,276,865.39 in ICHHS warrants for August 2021 (4-0)
• Approved gambling permit for VFW Post 1720 at Blueberry Bowl (4-0)
• Approved resolution for Nashwauk mountain bike trail planning grant application (4-0)
• Pulled grader replacement request from agenda

County Board

The Itasca County Board held a work session on August 17, 2021, and approved a motion to award the Deer River Safe Routes to School Multi Use Trail construction contract to TNT Construction Group, LLC for $457,827.00. The board also approved the agenda and minutes from the August 10, 2021 meetings. All other agenda items were recommended for the consent agenda for the next regular meeting on August 24, 2021, and no other final decisions were made during this work session.

• Awarded $457,827 Deer River Safe Routes to School trail contract to TNT Construction Group (5-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved minutes of Aug 10 special and regular sessions (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss road maintenance funding, land sales, and emergency declarations. The board is reviewing several infrastructure contracts and grant applications for public water access and trails.

• Transfer of $1,400,000 from Unorganized Township road and bridge accounts to the County Road and Bridge fund
• Sale of tax-forfeited land to the City of Cohasset for public purpose
• Bid award for Contract 90011 - Deer River Safe Routes to School - Multi Use Trail Improvements
• Final payment for Contract 66009 - CSAH 60 Grading, Aggregate Base, Bituminous Surfacing & Bridge Replacement
• Declaration of a State of Emergency

The Itasca County Board approved a state of emergency declaration for damage from the July 23, 2021 severe storms and wind, and authorized signatures on a request for a Preliminary Damage Assessment from the state. The board also approved the sale of tax-forfeited land to the City of Cohasset for public purpose, and approved a $1.4 million transfer for unorganized township road maintenance.

• Declared state of emergency for July 23 storm damage (5-0)
• Approved sale of tax-forfeited land to City of Cohasset for $69,000 and $24,950 (5-0)
• Approved $1,820,480.45 in commissioner warrants (5-0)
• Approved $1,400,000 transfer for unorganized township road maintenance (5-0)
• Approved FAA grant agreement for airport rotating beacon replacement (5-0)
• Authorized Building Systems Agreement with Honeywell for IRC RTU replacement (5-0)
• Approved Chippewa National Forest RAC grant applications (5-0)
• Approved final payment for Contract 66009 - CSAH 60 project (5-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority held a regular session on August 10, 2021, with all five commissioners present. The board approved the agenda and the minutes from the June 8, 2021 meeting, both unanimously. The only agenda item was an informational project update, with no action taken. No substantive decisions were made.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved minutes of June 8, 2021 meeting (5-0)
• Received informational project update; no action taken

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved a resolution supporting the Len Hardy Memorial ATV Trail IRRRB grant application, approved a donation of a bus depot door to VFW Post 1720, and approved a Letter of Understanding for an MIS on-call program. The board also scheduled two special sessions to discuss American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding for broadband expansion. Several items were recommended for the consent agenda at the next regular meeting, including a $1.4 million transfer for unorganized township road maintenance and a final payment for a road construction contract.

• Adopted Resolution 2021-45 supporting Len Hardy Memorial ATV Trail IRRRB grant application (5-0)
• Approved donation of old Bus Depot door to VFW Post 1720 for display (5-0)
• Approved Local 1626 Letter of Understanding for MIS Department On-Call Program (5-0)
• Scheduled special session on ARP funding for August 10, 2021 at 12:30 PM (5-0)
• Scheduled special session on ARP funding for August 24, 2021 at 12:30 PM (5-0)
• Recommended $1,400,000 transfer from Unorganized Township road and bridge accounts to County Road and Bridge fund for consent agenda
• Recommended final payment of $4,122,291.42 for Contract 66009 (CSAH 60) for consent agenda
• Recommended sale of tax-forfeited land to City of Cohasset for $69,000 and $24,950 for regular agenda

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment held a special meeting to review Conditional Use Permit #910028 for a junk/salvage yard in Bigfork Township, with the intent to consider revocation. The board discussed three violations, including vehicles within 500 feet of the Bigfork River, exceeding the allowed 300 vehicles, and business operations on a parcel not covered by the CUP. No motion was made and no findings were established; the board agreed to discuss the matter further at the 9/8/2021 meeting.

• Reviewed CUP #910028 for junk/salvage yard; no motion made
• Tabled further discussion to 9/8/2021 meeting
• Adjourned at 2:12 p.m.

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners approved a $75,000 request from the Recorder's Compliance Fund for HD Lidar acquisition, contributing to a county cost share for a regional mapping project. The board also approved a $50,000 grant application for ATV trail development, reallocated social worker positions, and abolished the COVID-19 employee policy in favor of an updated preparedness plan. All actions were approved with a 4-0 vote, with Commissioner Terry Snyder absent.

• Approved $75,000 from Recorder's Compliance Fund for HD Lidar acquisition (4-0)
• Approved $50,000 grant application to IRRRB for Len Hardy Memorial ATV Trail (4-0)
• Reallocated Social Worker QDDP positions to Social Worker Home and Community Based (4-0)
• Abolished Interim Policy 2021-01 and approved updated COVID-19 Preparedness Plan (4-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $2,015,298.75 (4-0)
• Approved ICHHS Department Warrants totaling $1,059,973.33 (4-0)
• Approved gambling permit for VFW Post 1720 at Blueberry Bowl (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including IMCare compliance plan and bridge final payment (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved a $2,573,749.19 bituminous paving contract with KGM Contractors, Inc. for multiple road projects, including ADA improvements and paving on CSAH 80, CSAH 16/82, and CSAH 84, and paving on County Roads 561 and 433. The board also recommended several items for the consent agenda, including final payment for the Phillips Rd. Bridge Replacement, a utility easement for Lake Country Power, and a lease agreement for the 2021 North Star Expo. Informational items included a county clean-up discussion and a jail cell design update, with no action taken.

• Approved Bituminous Paving Contract 61614 to KGM Contractors, Inc. for $2,573,749.19 (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: final payment for Contract 59914 (Phillips Rd. Bridge Replacement)
• Recommended for consent: utility easement for Lake Country Power on tax-forfeited land
• Recommended for consent: lease agreement with MN Timber Producers for 2021 North Star Expo
• Recommended for consent: IMCare Compliance Plan and related policies
• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved minutes of July 13, 2021 regular session (5-0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved a minor subdivision and three variance requests at its July 14, 2021 meeting. All motions carried unanimously. The subdivision approval was contingent on conditions from the County Surveyor, and each variance included conditions to maintain buffers and follow best management practices.

• Approved Far Creek Acres minor subdivision (DAJ Investments), contingent on County Surveyor conditions (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 16'x28' deck 93' from OHWL of Lum Lake for Jeff & Dayna Thelemann (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 14'x20' bathhouse/storage building 61' from OHWL for Mariette Sears (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 16'x26' cabin addition 80' from OHWL for Janet Lund & Lori Richman (unanimous)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Regional Railroad Authority will meet to approve minutes from the June 8, 2021 meeting. The session includes informational updates regarding the budget and current projects.

• Approval of June 8, 2021 meeting minutes
• Budget update provided by Karin Grandia
• Project update provided by Brett Skyles and Matti Adam

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority met on July 13, 2021, and approved the agenda and the minutes from the June 8, 2021 meeting, both by a 5-0 vote. The board received an informational budget update on rail and trail expenses through June 2021, with no action taken. No project update was provided, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved the agenda as presented (5-0).
• Approved the minutes of the June 8, 2021 meeting (5-0).
• Received a budget update on rail and trail expenses through June 2021 (informational, no action).
• No project update was provided (informational, no action).

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved a consent agenda including a $927,662.17 contract with KGM Contractors for the TH 2 / CSAH 63 intersection project, a $218,900 contract with TNT Construction for a pedestrian crossing in Coleraine, and a $2,587,358.03 warrant payment. The board also adopted a slow-no-wake zone ordinance for Johnson Lake's North Bay, pending DNR approval, and granted a railway easement to Huber Engineered Woods over tax-forfeited land. In closed session, the board directed the County Attorney to continue pursuing an appeal in the Moratzka trust matter.

• Approved $927,662.17 contract to KGM Contractors for TH 2 / CSAH 63 intersection (5-0)
• Approved $218,900 contract to TNT Construction for Coleraine pedestrian crossing (5-0)
• Adopted slow-no-wake zone ordinance for Johnson Lake North Bay, pending DNR approval (5-0)
• Granted railway easement to Huber Engineered Woods over tax-forfeited land (5-0)
• Approved $2,587,358.03 in commissioner warrants (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda with Braun Intertec contracts, Deer River easement, and other items (5-0)
• Directed County Attorney to continue appeal in Moratzka trust matter (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners is holding a special session to address American Rescue Plan (ARP) matters. The board will review a request form and discuss funding.

• American Rescue Plan (ARP) Request Form
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) Funding Discussion

The Itasca County Board approved multiple uses of American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds, including $251,000 for Fairgrounds projects, $15,000 for Gunn Park signage, $199,780 for Bass Lake Park renovations, $2,000,000 to support the Huber Engineered Woods project, and $35,235 for weatherization services. A motion to approve a broader $829,280 park projects budget failed due to lack of a second. The board also directed staff to add examples to the ARP request form and scheduled a special session for July 27, 2021.

• Approved $220,000 for Fairgrounds Campground projects, $16,000 for grandstand repairs, and $15,000 for water line replacements (5-0)
• Approved $15,000 for signage and information kiosk at Gunn Park (5-0)
• Approved $199,780 for Bass Lake Park Campground renovations, with Wi-Fi as first priority (5-0)
• Approved $2,000,000 to buy down bonding for Huber Engineered Woods project (5-0)
• Approved $35,235 for weatherization services by Kootasca Community Action (5-0)
• Failed to approve $829,280 for park projects at Fairgrounds, Gunn Park, and Bass Lake Park due to lack of a second
• Directed staff to add examples to ARP request form (informational, no action)
• Scheduled special session on ARP funding for July 27, 2021 (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board held a work session and approved a cooperative construction agreement with MnDOT for a pedestrian crossing system in Coleraine. The board also recommended several items for the consent agenda, including contracts for the new correctional facility and a road construction bid award. A presentation on the new correctional facility/courts construction was received as informational, with no action taken.

• Approved MnDOT Cooperative Construction Agreement No. 1045820 for pedestrian crossing system in Coleraine (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: Braun Intertec soil, groundwater, and soil vapor investigation contract at new Correctional Facility/Courts site
• Recommended for consent: Braun Intertec special inspection and construction materials testing contract for Correctional Facility/Courts construction
• Recommended for consent: IMCare provider agreement with Kreklow Dental PLLC
• Recommended for consent: Use of Honeywell, Inc. as project manager for IRC Roof Top Unit Replacement Project
• Recommended for consent: Award of Contract 66322 for TH 2 / CSAH 63 Intersection Project to KGM Contractors, Inc. for $927,662.17
• Recommended for consent: Cooperative Construction Agreement No. 07012021 with City of Grand Rapids for TH 2 / CSAH 63 trail work
• Recommended for consent: Highway easement to City of Deer River for $276.00

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will review several service contracts and grant agreements. The body is deciding on staffing reallocations for the Sheriff's office and updates to lease agreements.

• Grant Agreement #1047298 for the GPZ Apron Lighting Project at Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport
• Reallocation of one vacant Grade 12 Deputy Sheriff/Lieutenant position to a Grade 10 Road Deputy position
• Purchase of Service Agreement with Core Professional Services PA for juvenile sex offender treatment
• Lease Agreement with Northern Minnesota Swap Meet and Car Show
• Amendment to Lease Agreement with USS Solar

The Itasca County Board approved a motion to direct staff to work on a Tax Abatement Agreement with Project Frontier, a company planning a $350 million investment in an engineered wood products plant. The board also approved a consent agenda that included a MnDOT grant for airport apron lighting, a change in a Sheriff's Department position allocation, and several health and human services contracts. A resolution to adopt the Mississippi River Headwaters Watershed Comprehensive Management Plan was approved with a 4-to-1 vote, with Commissioner Ives voting no.

• Approved directing staff to work on a Tax Abatement Agreement with Project Frontier (5-0).
• Approved the consent agenda, including a MnDOT grant for airport apron lighting, a Sheriff's position reallocation, and multiple health and human services contracts (5-0).
• Approved a resolution to enter into a MnDOT cooperative construction agreement for the TH 2 / CSAH 63 traffic signal replacement (5-0).
• Approved a resolution to submit, adopt, and implement the Mississippi River Headwaters Watershed Comprehensive Management Plan (4-1).
• Approved an amendment to the solar lease agreement with USS Itasca Clean Energy LLC (5-0).
• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $2,341,168.31 (5-0).
• Approved ICHHS Warrants totaling $1,452,604.24 (5-0).
• Scheduled a public hearing on a Slow No Wake Zone for Johnson Lake (4-0).

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners is meeting for a special session to review American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds. The board will discuss funding updates and specific allocations for county parks.

• American Rescue Plan (ARP) Fund Update
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) Funding for County Parks
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) Funding Discussion

The Itasca County Board held a special session on June 15, 2021, receiving updates on the American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds totaling $8,765,973, with $164,500 already approved. The board discussed potential uses, including county parks projects, and directed staff to solidify plans and prepare a request form. The only formal action taken was approving a motion to schedule a special session on July 6, 2021, at 12:30 p.m. to further discuss ARP funding.

• Approved scheduling a special session on July 6, 2021, at 12:30 p.m. for ARP funding discussion (5-0).
• Directed staff to solidify county parks project plans and dollar amounts for a future ARP request.
• Directed County Administrator Brett Skyles to prepare a request form for ARP fund use.
• Received informational updates on ARP funds and county parks projects; no action taken.

County Board

The County Board is conducting a work session to discuss several administrative agreements and personnel changes. The meeting includes a public hearing regarding a rezone application and a discussion on a financial solution for Enbridge Energy Tax Court findings.

• Public hearing for rezone application submitted by Miller-Persons
• Agreement #1047298 for GPZ Apron Lighting Project at Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport
• Reallocation of one vacant Grade 12 Deputy Sheriff/Lieutenant position to a Grade 10 Road Deputy position
• Purchase of Service Agreement with Core Professional Services PA for juvenile sex offender treatment
• Lease agreement with Northern Minnesota Swap Meet and Car Show

The Itasca County Board approved a resolution requesting a state legislative financial solution for the Enbridge Energy tax court findings, adopted a rezone of two properties from Recreational Commercial to Rural Residential, and approved a $94,070 builders' risk insurance bid from Hanover Insurance for the new Correctional Facility/Courts project. The board also recommended several items for the consent agenda at the next regular meeting, including a grant agreement for airport apron lighting and a contract for juvenile sex offender treatment services.

• Approved Resolution 2021-38 requesting a state legislative financial solution for the Enbridge Energy tax court findings.
• Approved Resolution 2021-39 to rezone properties at 19-460-0260 and 19-460-0330 from Recreational Commercial to Rural Residential.
• Approved the low bid of $94,070 from Hanover Insurance for builders' risk insurance on the new Correctional Facility/Courts project.
• Recommended for consent: authorize MnDOT grant agreement for the GPZ Apron Lighting Project at the Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport.
• Recommended for consent: authorize changing a vacant Deputy Sheriff/Lieutenant position to a Road Deputy position.
• Recommended for consent: approve a purchase of service agreement with Core Professional Services for juvenile sex offender treatment.
• Recommended for consent: approve 2021/2022 Housing Support Agreements effective July 1, 2021.
• Recommended for consent: approve the 2021 lease agreement with the Northern Minnesota Swap Meet and Car Show.

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment recommended approval of a rezone application by Nancy Miller/Miller-Persons Properties for Lots 26-37, East Wendigo Park, Harris Township, from Recreational Commercial to Rural Residential. The recommendation will go to the County Board for final decision. The board also re-tabled a review of Conditional Use Permit #910028 for a junk/salvage yard in Bigfork Township until July. Minutes from the 5/12/2021 hearing were approved.

• Approved minutes of 5/12/2021 hearing (unanimous)
• Re-tabled review of Conditional Use Permit #910028 for junk/salvage yard until July (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of rezone from Recreational Commercial to Rural Residential for Lots 26-37, East Wendigo Park (unanimous)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority held a regular session on June 8, 2021, with all five commissioners present. The board approved the agenda and the minutes from the January 12, 2021 meeting, both unanimously. The only substantive item was an informational project update, with no action taken. No other decisions were made.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved minutes of January 12, 2021 meeting (5-0)
• Received informational project update; no action taken

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved a consent agenda including a $1,092,124.90 state bridge grant for the CR 238 bridge replacement, sales of tax-forfeited land to Keewatin and Calumet, and a $2,185,266.22 warrant payment. A property tax abatement request from Project Frontier was pulled from the agenda. The board also received informational updates on COVID-19, the new jail project, and 4-H.

• Approved $1,092,124.90 bridge grant agreement for CR 238 bridge replacement (5-0)
• Approved sale of tax-forfeited land to City of Keewatin for $100 (5-0)
• Approved sale of tax-forfeited land to City of Calumet for $500 (5-0)
• Approved $2,185,266.22 in commissioner warrants (5-0)
• Approved 2021 TSI contract with Dale Steinert for $6,300 (5-0)
• Authorized application for 2021 Firewise grant of $16,828.61 (5-0)
• Approved sponsor agreement with City of Deer River for 2021 trail project (5-0)
• Pulled property tax abatement request from Project Frontier from agenda

County Board

The Itasca County Board received updates and discussed American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding options, but took no formal action. The board reached a consensus to schedule a special session on June 15, 2021, at 12:30 p.m. in the Boardroom to continue ARP funding discussions.

• Scheduled special session on ARP funding for June 15, 2021, 12:30 p.m. (consensus)

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved a 2021 Firewise Coordinator service contract with Moore Outdoor Services, LLC for $28,376.54 and initiated/obligated 2020 Secure Rural Schools Title III funds of $21,249.93 for Firewise activities. The board also accepted a $291,200 Community Living Infrastructure grant. Several other items were recommended for the consent agenda at the next meeting.

• Approved 2021 Firewise Coordinator contract with Moore Outdoor Services, LLC for $28,376.54 (5-0)
• Initiated and obligated 2020 SRS Title III funds of $21,249.93 for Firewise and CWPP (5-0)
• Accepted Community Living Infrastructure grant of $291,200 for FY2022/23 (5-0)
• Approved agenda as amended (5-0)
• Approved minutes of May 25, 2021 regular session (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will review several infrastructure contracts and financial statements. The meeting includes discussions on correctional facility construction and COVID-19 updates.

• Contract award to S & R Reinforcing, Inc. for CR 238 Road Reconstruction & Bridge Replacement for $2,320,295.70
• Service contract with S.E.H. for Squaw Lake Paved Trail Phase 2 engineering for $26,500
• Co-Op Agreement with City of Grand Rapids to close 5th Street for Government Center construction
• Professional service contract with Duluth Archaeology Center, LLC for cultural resource studies
• Review and approval of IMCare 2020 Annual and Q1 2021 Financial Statements

The Itasca County Board approved a $2,320,295.70 contract for CR 238 road reconstruction and bridge replacement, and approved Phase 1 Correctional/Court Facility construction contracts pending County Attorney review. The board also approved a $162,400 contract for siding replacement at the Itasca Resource Center by a 4-1 vote, and approved warrants totaling $4,782,071.00.

• Approved $2,320,295.70 contract for CR 238 Road Reconstruction & Bridge Replacement to S & R Reinforcing, Inc. (5-0)
• Approved Phase 1 Correctional/Court Facility construction contracts, pending County Attorney Review (5-0)
• Approved $162,400 bid for IRC siding replacement to TNT Construction Group, LLC (4-1)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants of $3,627,904.00 (5-0)
• Approved ICHHS Department Warrants of $1,154,167.00 (5-0)
• Approved $26,500 service contract with S.E.H. for Squaw Lake Paved Trail Phase 2 (5-0)
• Approved Cooperative Agreement with MN DNR for Alborn-Pengilly Trail Culvert Replacement (5-0)
• Approved IMCare 2020 Annual Financial Statements (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners is meeting for a work session to review infrastructure contracts and funding requests. The board will discuss road reconstructions, trail projects, and cultural resource studies.

• Contract 59821 for CR 238 Road Reconstruction & Bridge Replacement to S & R Reinforcing, Inc. for $2,320,295.70
• S.E.H. engineering contract for Phase 2 of the Paved Trail in Squaw Lake for $26,500
• Co-Op Agreement with City of Grand Rapids to close 5th Street for Government Center construction
• Professional service contract with Duluth Archaeology Center, LLC for cultural resource studies
• Cooperative Agreement with MN Department of Natural Resources for Alborn - Pengilly Trail Culvert Replacement

The Itasca County Board held a work session on May 18, 2021, and approved several items. They approved $50,000 in ARP funds for the 2021 Itasca Summit and $65,000 for the Northern Minnesota Historical Mine Tour project, both by unanimous votes. They also approved a gambling permit for the Pengilly Booster Club. Five items were recommended for the consent agenda at the next regular session, including a $2,320,295.70 road contract and a $26,500 trail design contract. No action was taken on a request to use ARP funds for canister site repairs.

• Approved $50,000 ARP funds for 2021 Itasca Summit (5-0)
• Approved $65,000 ARP funds for Northern Minnesota Historical Mine Tour (5-0)
• Approved gambling permit for Pengilly Booster Club at Red Eye Saloon (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: Co-op agreement with Grand Rapids for 5th Street closure
• Recommended for consent: $2,320,295.70 contract for CR 238 reconstruction to S & R Reinforcing
• Recommended for consent: $26,500 contract with S.E.H. for Squaw Lake trail design
• Recommended for consent: DNR cooperative agreement for Alborn-Pengilly culvert replacement
• No action taken on ARP funds for canister site repairs

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will consider several conditional use permits and a rezoning request. The meeting includes reviews for communication towers and a campground expansion. The Board of Adjustment will hear one variance request regarding a deck setback.

• Conditional Use for 333’ communication tower in Stokes Township
• Conditional Use for 333’ communication tower in Balsam Township
• Rezone Lots 26-37, East Wendigo Park from Recreational Commercial to Rural Residential
• Conditional Use to reopen 10-unit campground with hookups in Lawrence Township
• Variance for 8’x16’ deck setback from Antler Lake

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved three conditional use permits: two 325-foot guyed communication towers (one in Stokes Township, one in Balsam Township) and a CUP to reopen a 10-unit campground in Lawrence Township to the general public. A rezone application for East Wendigo Park was tabled to the June meeting due to noticing issues. A variance application for a deck on Antler Lake was withdrawn.

• Approved CUP for 325' communication tower in Stokes Township (4-0)
• Approved CUP for 325' communication tower in Balsam Township (unanimous)
• Tabled rezone of East Wendigo Park lots to June meeting (unanimous)
• Approved CUP to reopen 10-unit campground in Lawrence Township, with condition that future expansion requires PCBA approval (unanimous)
• Variance application for deck enclosure on Antler Lake withdrawn

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting to discuss American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding. This is the only item listed on the regular agenda.

• Discussion of American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding

The Itasca County Board discussed potential uses of American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding, including a proposed 2021 Itasca Summit, a historical mine tour, and a manufacturing lead-generation project. No formal action was taken; the board referred the requests to the May 18, 2021 work session for further consideration.

• Referred ARP funding requests to May 18 work session (consensus)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to vote on several consent items, including road maintenance contracts and the sale of tax-forfeited land. The board will also discuss federal boating safety grant agreements.

• Award of 2021 Pavement Marking Service contract to Traffic Marking Service for $142,300.00
• Sale of tax-forfeited land (parcel #91-585-4106) to the City of Grand Rapids for $4,450.00
• Sale of tax-forfeited land (parcel 91-620-0230) to the City of Grand Rapids for $4,000.00
• Adoption of a new Intersection Street Lighting Policy to replace the existing Roadway Lighting Policy
• Authorization of a contract between IMCare and 2Care4U LLC for EIDBI services

The Itasca County Board approved a consent agenda including a $142,300 pavement marking contract with Traffic Marking Service, an easement for C.S.A.H. 52, and a new Intersection Street Lighting Policy. The board also approved the sale of two tax-forfeited parcels to the City of Grand Rapids for public and stormwater purposes, and accepted two state boating safety grants. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved 2021 Pavement Marking Service contract to Traffic Marking Service for $142,300 (5-0)
• Approved sale of tax-forfeited parcel #91-585-4106 to Grand Rapids for $4,450 (5-0)
• Approved sale of parcel #91-620-0230 to Grand Rapids for $4,000 and conveyance of #91-028-3109 at no charge (5-0)
• Adopted new Intersection Street Lighting Policy, voiding prior Roadway Lighting Policy (5-0)
• Accepted $500 Federal Boating Safety Supplemental Equipment Grant (5-0)
• Approved $9,500 Federal Boating Safety Supplemental Patrol Grant (5-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $504,591.88 (5-0)
• Adopted resolution proclaiming Police Week and Peace Officers' Memorial Day (5-0)

County Board

The County Board is holding a work session to review several contracts and land transfers. The body is discussing the sale of tax-forfeited land to the City of Grand Rapids for public and stormwater purposes.

• Contract for 2021 Pavement Marking Service awarded to Traffic Marking Service for $142,300.00
• Proposed sale of tax-forfeited land parcel 91-585-4106 to the City of Grand Rapids for a public purpose
• Proposed sale of tax-forfeited land parcels 91-028-3109 and 91-620-0230 to the City of Grand Rapids for stormwater purposes
• Contract between IMCare and 2Care4U LLC for EIDBI services
• Easement for C.S.A.H. 52 highway right of way across parcels T05 and T20

The Itasca County Board held a work session and approved scheduling a special session on May 11, 2021, to discuss American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding. They also approved a letter of support for the Bigfork Community Project and adopted a proclamation for National Travel and Tourism Week. Several items were recommended for the consent agenda at the next regular meeting, including a $142,300 pavement marking contract and sales of tax-forfeited land to the City of Grand Rapids.

• Approved scheduling special session on ARP funding for May 11, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved letter of support for Bigfork Community Project (5-0)
• Adopted proclamation for National Travel and Tourism Week, May 2-8, 2021 (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: IMCare contract with 2Care4U LLC for EIDBI services
• Recommended for consent: easement for C.S.A.H. 52 across county-owned parcels
• Recommended for consent: award 2021 Pavement Marking contract to Traffic Marking Service for $142,300
• Recommended for consent: adopt Intersection Street Lighting Policy
• Recommended for consent: sale of tax-forfeited land to City of Grand Rapids for public purpose ($4,450) and stormwater purposes ($4,000 and no charge)

County Board

The County Board is meeting to approve several operational contracts, including fuel and road maintenance agreements. The board will also consider the sale of tax-forfeited land and a variety of administrative updates.

• Awarding bids for Propane, Diesel Fuel, and Gasoline to Edwards Oil Inc. and Davis Oil Inc.
• Sale of tax-forfeited land to the City of Keewatin for $100.00 plus costs
• Approval of an updated tobacco ordinance
• Awarding County Project 2021-10 for Calcium Chloride and Magnesium Chloride to Knife River Corporation and Trimark Industrial
• CARES Act Grant Agreement for Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport operations

The Itasca County Board approved a consent agenda including contracts for road maintenance, fuel, and software, as well as tax-forfeited land sales and repurchases. They also approved over $2.4 million in warrants and payments, a $15,000 increase in legal expenses for the correctional facility project, and a grant application for contamination cleanup. The board voted 3-1 to approve the additional legal expenses, with Commissioner Ben DeNucci dissenting.

• Approved Commissioner Warrants of $1,260,160.27 (4-0)
• Approved ICHHS Warrants of $1,162,123.72 (4-0)
• Approved $15,000 additional legal expenses for correctional facility relocation (3-1)
• Approved Contamination Cleanup Grant Application for Government Center/Correctional Facility (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including road, fuel, and software contracts (4-0)
• Approved sale of tax-forfeited land to City of Keewatin for $100 (4-0)
• Approved repurchase of tax-forfeited land by Allen Wayne Chastan (4-0)
• Approved repurchase of tax-forfeited land by Steven Keske (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners voted 5-0 to adopt a resolution opposing the parole of James Shane Swanson, who was convicted of first-degree murder and kidnapping in 1991. The board also approved the agenda and minutes, and recommended several items for the consent agenda at its next meeting. No other substantive decisions were made during this work session.

• Adopted resolution opposing parole of James Shane Swanson (5-0)
• Approved agenda as amended (5-0)
• Approved minutes of April 13, 2021 regular session (5-0)
• Recommended CARES Act airport grant agreement for consent
• Recommended IMCare contract with The Woods Therapy for consent
• Recommended ESRI enterprise agreement renewal for consent
• Recommended fuel bids award to Edwards Oil and Davis Oil for consent
• Recommended 2021/2022 road maintenance agreements for consent

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority met and approved the agenda and the minutes from the January 12, 2021 meeting, both unanimously. The board received an informational overview of short line rail operations needed for the tracks to Mesabi Metallics, with no action taken. No project update was provided.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved minutes of January 12, 2021 meeting (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board held a work session and approved several items, including a contract with RN Paula Butler for COVID-19 vaccination administration at $40/hour, the cancellation of forfeiture for two properties, and a proclamation for National Public Health Week. The board also recommended numerous items for the consent agenda at the next regular session, including contracts for road construction and earthen materials leases. Two agenda items were pulled and not acted upon.

• Approved contract with RN Paula Butler for COVID-19 vaccination administration at $40/hour through Dec. 31, 2021.
• Approved cancellation of forfeiture for Parcel #29-131-4100, owned by Mary Smith Bimway.
• Approved cancellation of forfeiture for Parcel #18-015-4408, owned by MnDOT.
• Adopted National Public Health Week Proclamation for April 5-11, 2021.
• Recommended for consent: award contract for aggregate surfacing to Wm. J. Schwartz & Son Inc. for $739,635.00.
• Recommended for consent: award bituminous projects contract to Hawkinson Construction Co, Inc. for $4,455,322.14.
• Recommended for consent: adopt the 2021 Five Year Plan for Highway Improvement Projects.
• Recommended for consent: award earthen materials leases to William J. Schwartz & Son's Excavating and Kern & Tabery, Inc.

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved a consent agenda including a $731,743.65 contract with Casper Construction Inc. for the City of Bigfork Rajala Mill Rd. & Ash Street Road Reconstruction, funded by state and city sources. The board also approved a $17,000 contract with Deer River Trucking, Inc. for demolition of the fairgrounds caretaker house and construction of a campground host site, with one dissenting vote. Several hiring authorizations were approved, including for a Child Support Officer and a Highway Maintenance Worker.

• Approved the consent agenda, including a $731,743.65 road reconstruction contract for the City of Bigfork.
• Approved a $17,000 contract with Deer River Trucking, Inc. for demolition of the fairgrounds caretaker house and construction of a campground host site.
• Approved the posting of a Child Support Officer position.
• Authorized the creation of an eligibility list and interviews for a Highway Maintenance Worker position.
• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $920,324.53.
• Approved Itasca County Health and Human Services (ICHHS) Department Warrants totaling $1,160,311.49.
• Approved the repurchase of tax-forfeited land by Paul and Marilyn Schanhaar for $3,089.71.
• Approved the MnDOT Detour Agreement No. 1045956.

County Board

The Itasca County Board held a public hearing and approved a zoning map amendment to rezone parcel 19-008-1203, submitted by Todd Major and Pete Stacklie, to Light Industrial Commercial. The board also approved a new tobacco license for Gods Country Outfitters. All other agenda items, including contract awards and grant applications, were recommended for approval at the next regular session.

• Approved the application to rezone parcel 19-008-1203 to Light Industrial Commercial (4-0).
• Approved a new tobacco license for Kristi and Christopher Reinhardt dba Gods Country Outfitters (4-0).
• Approved the agenda and the minutes of the March 9, 2021 regular session (4-0).
• Recommended for consent: submission of a Community Living Infrastructure grant application to MN DHS.
• Recommended for consent: award of Contract 59602 to Casper Construction Inc. for $731,743.65.
• Recommended for consent: adoption of the MnDOT Detour Agreement No. 1045956.
• Recommended for consent: award of the 2021 Tree Planting Contract to Northwoods Forestry Inc. for $29,795.37.
• Recommended for consent: award of the 2021 Site Preparation Contract to Future Forests Inc. for $68,395.00.

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment recommended County Board approval of a rezone for Todd Major & Pete Stacklie from Farm Residential to Light Industrial Commercial for a property in Harris Township. The Board of Adjustment approved a variance for Bradley Johnson & John Maxwell to build a 140 SF sauna 16.5' from North Star Lake's Ordinary High Water Level, with conditions. The meeting was held on 3/10/2021.

• Approved agenda as distributed
• Approved minutes of the 1/13/2021 hearing
• Recommended approval of rezone from Farm Residential to Light Industrial Commercial for Todd Major & Pete Stacklie
• Approved variance for a 140 SF sauna 16.5' from the OHWL of North Star Lake for Bradley Johnson & John Maxwell
• Attached conditions to variance: septic inspection, runoff containment, and compliance with Best Management Practices
• Adjourned the meeting

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved a consent agenda including a $2,586,916.40 contract for CSAH 52 grading and aggregate base, awarded to Kern and Tabery, Inc. The board also approved several lease agreements for the Itasca Resource Center, a $12,500 veterans service grant, and resolutions to convey land to the City of Warba, Feeley Township, and Sago Township for a fire hall. A separate motion to approve an agreement for the acquisition of Vanity Cleaners, Inc. passed 4-1.

• Approved the consent agenda, including a $2,586,916.40 contract for CSAH 52 grading to Kern and Tabery, Inc.
• Approved lease agreements for the Itasca Resource Center with ISD #318, Kootasca Community Action, Northeast Minnesota Office of Job Training, Itasca Medical Care, and Itasca County HHS.
• Adopted Resolution 2021-14 for a $12,500 County Veterans Service Office grant from the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs.
• Adopted Resolution 2021-17 to convey land to the City of Warba, Feeley Township, and Sago Township for a fire hall, with a $30,000 purchase for county land.
• Approved a $19,249 purchase and installation of a new Dry Chemical System from Brothers Fire & Security.
• Approved a $59,448.40 utility relocation agreement with North Itasca Electric for CSAH 52.
• Approved an agreement for the acquisition of Vanity Cleaners, Inc. by a 4-1 vote.
• Approved a $17,000 contract with Deer River Trucking, Inc. for demolition of the fairgrounds caretaker house.

County Board

The Itasca County Board will hold a work session to discuss and review items that may come before it for official action, including several lease agreements, a hiring request, a dry chemical system replacement, a DNR land acquisition, a 5-year highway improvement plan, and a Coronavirus Relief Fund update. The board will also consider a consent agenda with items such as a $2.59 million road contract, bridge design contracts, and a $12,500 veterans grant. A closed session is scheduled to discuss the Itasca County Jail Project.

• Award contract 65204 for C.S.A.H. 52 Grading & Aggregate Base to Kern and Tabery, Inc. for $2,586,916.40
• Enter into a Utility Relocation Agreement with North Itasca Electric for $59,448.40
• Adopt Resolution for County Veterans Service Office Operation Enhancement Grant of $12,500
• Approve demolition of fairgrounds caretaker house and construction of campground host site for $17,000
• Discuss 5 Year Plan for Highway Improvement Projects and Coronavirus Relief Fund Update

The Itasca County Board held a work session on March 2, 2021, where they denied a request from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to approve a 62-acre private land acquisition for the expansion of the Wabu Woods Scientific and Natural Area (SNA). The board also approved the allocation of the remaining Coronavirus Relief Funds, including a $60,000 grant to Timberlake Lodge. All other agenda items were recommended for the consent agenda at the next regular session.

• Denied DNR request for 62-acre Wabu Woods SNA expansion (3-2)
• Approved $820,870 in Coronavirus Relief Funds for fire departments, businesses, and non-profits (5-0)
• Approved $60,000 Coronavirus Relief Fund grant to Timberlake Lodge (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved use of remaining $11,235.45 in Coronavirus Relief Funds for Tier A businesses (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: Award $2,586,916.40 road contract to Kern and Tabery, Inc.
• Recommended for consent: Approve $17,000 fairgrounds caretaker house demolition contract
• Recommended for consent: Approve $59,448.40 utility relocation agreement with North Itasca Electric
• Recommended for consent: Approve $12,500 Veterans Service Office grant

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved a consent agenda including a solar lease with USS Itasca Clean Energy LLC at the Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport, a resolution to sponsor Deer River Township's LRIP funding application, and a contract for COVID-19 vaccination administration. The board also approved commissioner warrants totaling $1,019,052.74 and ICHHS warrants of $850,474.19. A request by the MN DNR to acquire land for the Wabu Woods Scientific and Natural Area was referred to a future work session for more information.

• Approved solar lease and easement with USS Itasca Clean Energy LLC (5-0)
• Approved resolution to sponsor Deer River Township LRIP application (5-0)
• Approved repurchase of tax-forfeited parcel by Michael H. Benning (5-0)
• Approved $1,019,052.74 in commissioner warrants (5-0)
• Approved $850,474.19 in ICHHS warrants (5-0)
• Approved contract for COVID-19 vaccination administration at $40/hour (5-0)
• Referred MN DNR land acquisition request to March 2 work session (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board held a work session where it approved new liquor and tobacco licenses, and recommended eight items for the consent agenda at the next regular session, including a solar lease at the airport, a memorandum of understanding for a corrections mental health position, and several resolutions. The board also received informational updates on a DNR land acquisition and the new jail/facilities project, and held closed sessions for labor negotiations and the jail project. No final action was taken on the consent agenda items, which are scheduled for approval on February 23, 2021.

• Approved new On-Sale, Off-Sale, and Sunday Liquor Licenses for Little Winnie Resort & Campground (5-0)
• Approved new tobacco license for Iron Tobacco Vapor dba Lakeshore Tobacco Vapor (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: solar lease and easement with USS Itasca Clean Energy LLC at Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport
• Recommended for consent: 639 MOU regarding Corrections Mental Health Professional
• Recommended for consent: resolution to act as sponsor/fiscal agent for Deer River Township LRIP application
• Recommended for consent: resolution for repurchase of tax-forfeited parcel by Michael H. Benning
• Recommended for consent: authorization for quit claim deed to clear title for Warba-Feeley-Sago Fire Department
• Recommended for consent: utility easement for Lake Country Power on tax-forfeited trust land

County Board

The Itasca County Board will hold a regular session covering routine consent items, a COVID-19 update, and several road and land matters. Key actions include approving contracts, supporting grant applications, and seeking special legislation for land sales.

• Contract for RN Nancy McKenzie for COVID-19 vaccination at $40/hour through Dec 31, 2021
• Forest Service Road Project Agreement with Chippewa National Forest
• Support for LRIP grant applications by Feeley and Ardenhurst Townships and Grand Rapids 21st Street SW project
• Seventh Amendment to surface lease with US Steel
• Resolutions to sell cemetery land to Leech Lake Band and a tax-forfeited parcel to private owner

The Itasca County Board approved a consent agenda including a $650,755.46 warrant payment, a MnDOT detour agreement for Highway 2 construction, and resolutions supporting township and city road funding applications. The board also approved resolutions seeking state legislation to sell tax-forfeited land to the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and a private landowner. All votes were unanimous (5-0), except for an employee expense report that passed 4-0 with one abstention.

• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $650,755.46 (5-0)
• Adopted MnDOT Detour Agreement No. 1045892 for Highway 2 construction (5-0)
• Approved Forest Service Road Project Agreement for Eagle Nest Road maintenance (5-0)
• Adopted resolutions supporting LRIP grant applications for Feeley Township, Ardenhurst Township, and Grand Rapids (5-0)
• Approved Seventh Amendment to US Steel surface lease for snowmobile trail re-route (5-0)
• Adopted resolution seeking special legislation to sell cemetery land to Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe (5-0)
• Adopted resolution seeking special legislation to sell tax-forfeited parcel to Vincent V. Holsman (5-0)
• Approved employee expense reimbursement (4-0, DeNucci abstained)

County Board

The Itasca County Board held a work session on February 2, 2021, approving the amended agenda and the January 26 regular session minutes, both unanimously. Nine items were recommended for the consent agenda for the next regular meeting, including contracts, agreements, and resolutions. The board also received informational updates on tax-forfeited land sales and a watershed plan, with no action taken on those items.

• Approved amended agenda adding Surface Lease Amendment (5-0)
• Approved January 26, 2021 regular session minutes (5-0)
• Recommended HHS Advisory Committee minutes for consent (5-0)
• Recommended Ross Resources contract addendum for consent (5-0)
• Recommended IMCare contracts with Lifeview Glaucoma Center and Ellie Family Services for consent (5-0)
• Recommended Forest Service Road Project Agreement for consent (5-0)
• Recommended MnDOT Detour Agreement resolution for consent (5-0)
• Recommended LRIP sponsor resolutions for Feeley and Ardenhurst Townships for consent (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved a resolution requesting state authorization to impose a 1% local sales and use tax, up to $75 million over 30 years, to fund a new correctional facility and court upgrades. The board also approved a consent agenda including contracts, hiring authorizations, and land sales, and pulled a solar lease agreement from the agenda. A closed session was held to consult with the county attorney regarding the jail project.

• Adopted resolution requesting state authorization for 1% local sales tax (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including IMCare contracts, hiring authorizations, and land sales (5-0)
• Pulled solar lease agreement with USS Solar from agenda
• Approved $2,941,667.63 in commissioner warrants (5-0)
• Approved $1,115,747.79 in ICHHS warrants (5-0)
• Approved establishing eligibility list for Road Deputy positions (5-0)
• Authorized filling Road Deputy position due to retirement (5-0)
• Held closed session on jail project (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board is holding a work session to review and discuss several items that may come before them for official action, including COVID-19 vaccine administration contracts, hiring authorizations, a joint powers agreement for solid waste management, and the sale of tax-forfeited land parcels. The agenda also includes consent agenda items such as a solar lease at the airport and a resolution for tax-forfeited land sales. This is a discussion session, not a final decision meeting.

• Lease agreement with USS Itasca Clean Energy LLC for solar lease at Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport
• Contracts for COVID-19 vaccination administration
• Joint Powers Agreement for Regional Solid Waste Management Plan
• Sale of tax-forfeited land parcels #92-025-1108 and #92-025-1116 to City of Keewatin
• Discussion on short-term rentals/VRBOs

County Board

The Itasca County Board will vote on a consent agenda covering COVID-19 vaccination nurse contracts, recycling service agreements, and other routine items. The regular agenda includes a COVID-19 update, coronavirus relief fund update, and 2021 board objectives. A closed session is scheduled to discuss jail project land and acquisition costs.

• COVID-19 vaccination administration contracts for 5 RNs at $40/hour through Dec 31, 2021
• 2021-2025 service contracts with Grand Rapids State Bank, Bass Brook Recycling, Como Lube & Supplies, American Disposal, and Liberty Tire
• Private Party Supervised Visitation Contract with Ross Resources, Ltd. for Jan 12-Dec 31, 2021
• Federal Poverty Guideline Fee Schedule acceptance with yearly updates
• Closed session per MN Statutes 13D.05 re: Jail Project Land and Acquisition Costs

County Board

The Itasca County Board is meeting for an organizational work session, which is a discussion-only meeting ahead of official action. They will elect officers, administer oaths, and discuss several contracts, including supervised visitation, recycling services, and solid waste coupon sales, plus hiring and committee appointments.

• Approve Private Party Supervised Visitation Contract with Ross Resources, Ltd. for Jan 12-Dec 31, 2021
• Accept Federal Poverty Guideline Fee Schedule with yearly updates
• Approve 2021-2025 service contracts with Grand Rapids State Bank, Bass Brook Recycling, Como Lube & Supplies, and American Disposal, Inc.
• Discuss Canisteo Pit water levels
• Coronavirus Relief Fund update