Itasca County public meetings in 2022

County Board

The Itasca County Board will hold a work session to discuss and set 2023 salaries for elected officials including the County Attorney, Auditor/Treasurer, Recorder, Sheriff, and Commissioners. They will also discuss distribution of opioid settlement funds, a community supervision resolution, and a coroner services contract. Several consent agenda items are recommended, including a lobbyist services contract and a grant for A/V equipment in new court facilities.

• Professional Services Contract for Lobbyist Services with Loren Solberg Consulting for 2023, waiving statutory insurance limits and authorizing up to $2,000 cost-share
• Memorandum of Understanding with State of MN for grant funding for A/V equipment in new court facilities
• Extension of Forest Service Road Project Agreement 22-RO-11090300-004 with Chippewa National Forest Service through 2023
• Award CSAH 52 Clearing Contract to lowest quote, using Unorganized Township funds
• Non-exclusive easement for public access over Owen Lake Drive on tax-forfeited trust lands in Section 15, Township 60, Range 24

The Board established 2023 salaries for the County Attorney, Auditor/Treasurer, Recorder, Sheriff, and Commissioners. It also approved a $110,931 medical examiner contract and a $34,500 lobbyist services agreement. Additionally, the Board approved the acquisition of 43 acres for the Wabu Woods Scientific and Natural Area.

• Approved 2023 salary for County Attorney at $141,777 (4-1)
• Approved 2023 salary for County Auditor/Treasurer at $112,000 (3-2)
• Approved 2023 salary for County Recorder at $96,685 (5-0)
• Approved 2023 salary for County Sheriff at $108,500 (3-2)
• Approved 2023 salary for Commissioners at $35,189.59 (4-1)
• Approved $110,931 contract with Midwest Medical Examiners Office (5-0)
• Approved $34,500 contract with Loren Solberg Consulting for lobbyist services (5-0)
• Approved DNR acquisition of ~43 acres for Wabu Woods SNA (3-2)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will meet jointly to decide on a conditional use permit extension for a contractor yard and two variance requests for septic tank setbacks from lakes. The agenda includes one new business item for the Planning Commission and two variance applications for the Board of Adjustment.

• Conditional Use Permit Amendment to extend CUP #200536 for a temporary contractor yard until 12/31/2023 (Hawkinson Construction/Precision Pipeline, Harris Township)
• Variance from Section 5.6.7G for septic tank setback from Buck Lake OHWL (Todd & Nathan Scofield, Unorganized Township 58-22)
• Variance from Section 5.6.7B for septic tank setback from Turtle Lake OHWL (John Carney/Carney Family LLC, Marcell Township)

The commission extended a conditional use permit for a construction yard and approved two variances for septic tank installations near lake shorelines. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved extension of CUP #200536 for Precision Pipeline/Hawkinson Construction to 12/31/2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved variance for Todd & Nathan Scofield to install a septic tank 85’ from Buck Lake OHWL (Unanimous)
• Approved amended variance for John Carney to install three septic tanks no closer than 55’ from Turtle Lake OHWL (Unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the 11/9/2022 hearing (Unanimous)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority will meet to approve the 2023 regular meeting schedule and receive a project update from staff. No major decisions or public hearings are on the agenda.

• Approve minutes of September 13, 2022 meeting
• Discuss and set 2023 regular meeting schedule
• Receive project update from staff

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority established its 2023 meeting dates and special meeting notice procedures. The board also approved the agenda and the minutes from the September 13, 2022 meeting.

• Approved 2023 regular meeting schedule and special meeting notice procedure (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved September 13, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will hold a public meeting to adopt the 2023 levy and budget, and consider a consent agenda including liquor/tobacco license renewals, a $130,657 mental health grant, and various contracts. The regular agenda includes a public health update, IMCare division presentation, and discussion of 2023 legislative priorities.

• Public meeting and adoption of 2023 levy and budget
• Accept $130,657 Children's Mental Health Screening Grant from MN DHS
• Approve new tobacco licenses for Grand Rapids Tobacco N Vape Plus and River Rat One Stop
• Approve 2023 liquor/tobacco license renewals for county establishments
• Consider General Obligation Justice Center Bonds, Series 2023

The Board approved the issuance of $24,995,000 in General Obligation Justice Center Bonds and adopted a 2023 budget with total expenditures of $161,632,982. The Board also approved a local sales and use tax to fund correctional, court, and county office projects. Other actions included approving various health and transportation contracts and renewing airport hangar leases.

• Approved $24,995,000 General Obligation Justice Center Bonds (5-0)
• Adopted 2023 budget with $161,632,982 in expenditures and $41,266,142 levy (5-0)
• Approved local sales and use tax for designated projects up to $75M (5-0)
• Approved $1,359,632.86 in Commissioner Warrants (5-0)
• Approved 2023 Legislative Priorities including Broadband and Property Valuation Caps (5-0)
• Approved lease with MN DNR for Bowstring Connection Snowmobile Trail (5-0)
• Approved $130,657 Children's Mental Health Screening Grant (5-0)
• Approved hangar lease renewals for Leon Bachman and Kenneth Reichert (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider 2023 provider requests using ARPA funds, approve a service contract with the Itasca County Agricultural Association for $66,000, and adopt the 2023 meeting schedule and commissioner per diems.

• Consideration of 2023 provider requests using ARPA funds
• Approve service contract with Itasca County Agricultural Association for $66,000 for 2023 property management at Fairgrounds Park
• Adopt 2023 County Board meeting schedule
• Adopt per diems and reimbursable expenses for commissioners
• Approve IMCare provider agreement with Always in Motion Chiropractic and Wellness, PA

The County Board approved one-time American Rescue Plan (ARPA) funding for four health providers. Other key actions included approving the 2023 meeting schedule and a property management contract for the Fairgrounds Park.

• Approved $115,000 in one-time ARPA payments to Go Forward ($15,000), Northland Counseling Center ($40,000), North Homes ($50,000), and Ross Resources ($10,000) (3-1)
• Approved $66,000 service contract with Itasca County Agricultural Association for 2023 Fairgrounds Park property management (4-0)
• Approved 2023 County Board meeting schedule (4-0)
• Approved $324,014.91 ECPN Application for publicly owned nursing facilities, using $144,014.91 in reserves (4-0)
• Approved Court Appointed Attorney contract with Paul Shaffer for Dec 1, 2022, through Dec 31, 2023 (4-0)
• Adopted Mississippi River - Grand Rapids Memorandum of Agreement for watershed management planning (4-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants of $1,452,008.32 (4-0)
• Approved ICHHS Department Warrants of $1,495,789.97 (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will hold a work session to discuss several items, including a proposed agreement for watershed management planning and approval of the 2023 meeting schedule. The agenda includes consent items such as per diems and a $66,000 service contract for fairgrounds property management.

• Adopt resolution for 2023 county board meeting schedule
• Adopt resolution for commissioner per diems
• Adopt resolution for commissioner reimbursable expenses
• Authorize IMCare provider agreement with Always in Motion Chiropractic and Wellness, PA
• Approve $66,000 service contract with Itasca County Agricultural Association for fairgrounds property management

The Board recommended several items for consent, including the 2023 meeting schedule and a $66,000 fairgrounds management contract. A request to approve special legislation regarding a local option sales tax was pulled from the agenda.

• Approved agenda as amended (4-0)
• Recommended for consent: 2023 Board meeting schedule
• Recommended for consent: Resolution on Commissioner per diems
• Recommended for consent: Resolution on Commissioner reimbursable expenses
• Recommended for consent: IMCare agreement with Always in Motion Chiropractic and Wellness, PA
• Recommended for consent: $66,000 Fairgrounds Park property management contract with Itasca County Agricultural Association
• Recommended for consent: Mississippi River - Grand Rapids Comprehensive Watershed Management Planning MOA
• Pulled from agenda: Approval of Passed Special Legislation regarding local option sales tax

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will hold a regular session on November 10, 2022, at 2:30 PM. The agenda includes a consent agenda with items such as authorizing an internal loan for jail bonds, approving a final payment for a Safe Routes to School trail project, and adopting a resolution for a land repurchase. The regular agenda features a budget request from North Homes, a Title VI plan for a MnDOT subrecipient, and a time change for the December timber auction.

• Resolution authorizing internal loan for General Obligation Jail Bonds, Series 2020B
• Final payment for Safe Routes to School Trail project for the City of Deer River (Contract 90011)
• Resolution for repurchase of Lot 8 and East 1/2 Lot 15, Block 2, Spina Addition to Keewatin
• North Homes 2023 Budget Request presentation
• December 8, 2022 Oral Auction of Timber — time change discussion

The Board approved an internal loan of up to $2.5 million to cover jail bond debt service payments. Other actions included approving $827,719.58 in warrants and a property repurchase in Keewatin. A sub-committee was formed to review a $50,114 budget request from North Homes.

• Authorized internal loan up to $2.5M for General Obligation Jail Bonds, Series 2020B (4-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $827,719.58 (4-0)
• Approved repurchase of Lot 14 and East 1/2 Lot 15, BLK 5, Spina Addition to Keewatin for $4,091.06 (4-0)
• Appointed Commissioners Trunt and Ives to a sub-committee to review North Homes 2023 budget request (3-1)
• Approved final payment of $467,851.53 for Deer River Safe Routes to School Trail project (4-0)
• Approved change in IMCare allocation from Data Project Coordinator to Lead Medical Support Specialist (4-0)
• Approved creation of 4 Lead Eligibility Specialist Workers in Financial Assistance Unit (4-0)
• Modified December 8, 2022 Oral Auction of Timber start time to 1:00 PM (4-0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment will consider a variance request from Section 3.8.1C.3 of the Zoning Ordinance to allow a 30'x40' garage that does not meet the required setback from the centerline of Center Point Road. The property is Lot 8, Section 10, Marcell Township (Little Turtle, Recreational Development 2 Class), owned by Raymond Gadbois. The meeting will also include approval of the October 12, 2022 minutes.

• Variance request for garage setback from Center Point Rd centerline
• Property: Lot 8, Section 10, Marcell Township (RD 2 Class)
• Applicant: Raymond Gadbois
• Approval of October 12, 2022 regular meeting minutes

The Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved an amendment to a 2019 variance for a garage construction project in Marcell Township. The board also discussed improving the site inspection schedule for township officials.

• Approved variance amendment for Raymond Gadbois to construct a 30’x40’ garage 34’ from the centerline of Center Point Rd (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the 10/12/2022 hearing (unanimous)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss several items, including a position allocation for IMCare, a change in allocation of an Eligibility Specialist position, and North Homes' 2023 budget request. The board will also consider consent agenda items such as authorizing an internal loan for jail bonds, final payment for a Safe Routes to School trail project in Deer River, and a property repurchase in Keewatin. No final votes are taken at work sessions; these discussions inform future regular session decisions.

• Adopt resolution authorizing internal loan for General Obligation Jail Bonds, Series 2020B
• Approve final payment for Contract 90011, Safe Routes to School Trail project, City of Deer River
• Adopt resolution for repurchase of Lot 14 and East 1/2 Lot 15, BLK 5, Spina Addition, Keewatin
• Discussion: IMCare Position Allocation (Sarah Anderson)
• Discussion: North Homes 2023 Budget Request (Eric Villeneuve, Connie Ross)

The Board approved a water appropriation permit and pumping lease with the State of Minnesota for the Canisteo mine pit. A gambling premises permit for the Hill City Firemen's Relief Organization was also approved. Several personnel and budget items were recommended for future consent or regular agendas.

• Approved Canisteo Water Appropriation Permit and Pumping Lease Agreement (5-0)
• Approved gambling premises permit for Hill City Firemen's Relief Organization at Pickled Loon (5-0)
• Approved October 25, 2022 regular session minutes (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: Internal loan up to $2.5M for General Obligation Jail Bonds
• Recommended for consent: Final payment of $467,851.53 for Deer River Safe Routes to School Trail
• Recommended for consent: Repurchase of tax-forfeited parcels in Kewatin by Kenneth Brantner
• Recommended for consent: IMCare and Eligibility Specialist position reallocations
• Recommended for regular agenda: $50,114 budget request for North Homes

County Board

The County Board will review a campsite lease request and a TED account request from Nashwauk Township. The meeting also includes a COVID-19 update and several administrative approvals via the consent agenda.

• Award 2024 Containerized Seedling Contract to PRT USA, Inc. for $63,320.00
• Award Alborn Culvert Replacement project to Lakehead Constructors, Inc. for $58,200.00
• Notice for intermediate and regular oral bid auction of timber
• Discussion of campsite lease request
• TED account request by Nashwauk Township

The County Board denied a request to sell tax-forfeited trust land associated with a campsite lease in the Loucks-Danyluk Memorial Forest. The board also approved several infrastructure contracts and departmental warrants.

• Denied sale of tax-forfeited trust land for campsite lease (5-0)
• Approved $7,000 TED Account request for Nashwauk Township (4-1)
• Approved $58,200 Alborn Culvert Replacement contract to Lakehead Constructors, Inc. (5-0)
• Approved $63,320 2024 Containerized Seedling Contract to PRT USA, Inc. (5-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $2,857,193.53 (5-0)
• Approved ICHHS Department Warrants totaling $1,485,339.03 (5-0)
• Approved reallocation of one Emergency Communications Technician position to a Grade 12 Technical Supervisor (5-0)
• Approved cancellation of old warrants/checks totaling $19,202.36 (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will hold a work session to discuss several items, including a presentation on the Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) and Justice Center, a culvert replacement contract award, and a proposed land exchange. No final votes are expected at this work session.

• Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) and Justice Center presentation/update
• Award of $58,200 Alborn Culvert Replacement contract to Lakehead Constructors
• Public hearing on Conditional Use Permit for Tom Krumrei
• Discussion of campsite lease request
• Resolution authorizing proposed land exchange

The Itasca County Board approved a resolution authorizing a proposed land exchange with Hawkinson Construction (4-0) and approved a conditional use permit for Tom Krumrei for indoor/outdoor storage of recreational equipment (4-0). The board also approved a change in allocation of an Assistant Accountant position to an Accounting Technician in the Auditor/Treasurer's office (4-0). Several items were recommended for consent or regular agenda at the next meeting, including a timber auction, a seedling contract, a culvert replacement project, a campsite lease discussion, and a TED account request by Nashwauk Township.

• Approved Resolution 2022-64 authorizing Hawkinson-Itasca County Class B land exchange (4-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for Tom Krumrei for recreational equipment storage on Parcels #19-031-2306 and 19-031-2310 (4-0)
• Approved change in allocation of Assistant Accountant to Accounting Technician position (4-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (4-0)
• Approved minutes of October 11, 2022 regular session (4-0)
• Recommended for consent: authorize notice for timber auction on December 8, 2022
• Recommended for consent: award 2024 Containerized Seedling Contract to PRT USA, Inc. for $63,320.00
• Recommended for consent: award Alborn Culvert Replacement project to Lakehead Constructors, Inc. for $58,200.00

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will meet to conduct regular business. The primary item for consideration is a conditional use permit for recreational equipment storage.

• Conditional Use Permit for indoor/outdoor storage of boats, RVs, and vehicles at Part of Lot 2, Section 31, Harris Township 54-25 (Tom Krumrei)

The Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment unanimously recommended approval of a conditional use permit (CUP) for Tom Krumrei to establish indoor/outdoor storage of recreational equipment on two parcels in Harris Township. The recommendation includes a condition to comply with Best Management Practices. The County Board will hold a public hearing on October 18, 2022, and make the final decision.

• Approved minutes of 9/14/2022 hearing (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of CUP for Tom Krumrei for recreational equipment storage (unanimous)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will conduct a public hearing regarding the New Canister Site South. The board is also reviewing ATV trail proposals and updating timber sale policies.

• Public hearing on New Canister Site South
• Community Paramedic Contract with Essentia Health effective 10/1/2022
• MnDOT Detour Agreement No. 1051614
• ATV Trail Proposal: Pengilly to Calumet
• Updated Itasca County Timber Sale Policy and Specification & Guidelines

The Itasca County Board approved a new Canister Site South on parcel 08-031-2400, updated the Timber Sale Policy and Specifications, and scheduled public meetings for two ATV trail proposals. The board also approved a Community Paramedic Contract with Essentia Health, a MnDOT detour agreement, and a proclamation for Lights on Afterschool. All votes were 3-0 with two commissioners absent.

• Approved new Canister Site South on parcel 08-031-2400 (3-0)
• Approved updated Itasca County Timber Sale Policy and Specifications & Guidelines (3-0)
• Scheduled public meeting for Keewatin Trail Runners ATV trail proposal on Nov 1, 2022 (3-0)
• Scheduled public meeting for Pengilly to Calumet ATV trail proposal on Nov 3, 2022 (3-0)
• Approved Community Paramedic Contract with Essentia Health effective 10/1/2022 (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-62 for MnDOT Detour Agreement No. 1051614 (3-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $2,381,858.25 (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-63 proclaiming Oct 20, 2022 as Lights on Afterschool (3-0)

County Board

The County Board is holding a work session to review and discuss several operational items. The body will consider updates to timber sale policies and review contracts for community paramedics and DHS services.

• Community Paramedic Contract with Essentia Health effective 10/1/2022
• MnDOT Detour Agreement No. 1051614
• 4th Amendment of the AT&T Site Use Agreement for the Marcell/Suomi Tower
• Updated Itasca County Timber Sale Policy and Specification & Guidelines
• Utility easement for underground telecommunication line in Section 4, Township 61, Range 24

The Itasca County Board approved a motion to reschedule the Tuesday, November 8, 2022 Regular Session to Thursday, November 10, 2022 at 2:30 PM in the Boardroom because the room is needed for in-person voting on Election Day. The board also approved the 2023 IMCare/DHS contracts for Families and Children and Seniors, and recommended several items for the consent agenda at the next regular meeting, including a Community Paramedic Contract with Essentia Health and a MnDOT detour agreement for TH 65 construction.

• Approved rescheduling the November 8 Regular Session to November 10 at 2:30 PM due to elections (3-0).
• Approved the 2023 IMCare/DHS Families and Children and Seniors contracts and authorized signatures (3-0).
• Recommended for consent: Community Paramedic Contract with Essentia Health effective 10/1/2022.
• Recommended for consent: Resolution for MnDOT Detour Agreement No. 1051614 for TH 65 construction.
• Recommended for regular agenda: 4th Amendment of AT&T Site Use Agreement for Marcell/Suomi Tower.
• Recommended for consent: Utility easement for T-Mobile underground telecommunication line on tax-forfeited trust land.
• Recommended for regular agenda: Updated Itasca County Timber Sale Policy and Specifications & Guidelines.
• Discussed campsite lease lot request; no action taken, continued to October 18 meeting.

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will review a $17,459 safe roads grant and a resolution regarding the net gain of public land. The meeting also includes storage lease agreements and updates on COVID-19 and local option sales tax education.

• Acceptance of 2022-2023 Toward Zero Deaths (TZD) Safe Roads Grant Award for $17,459
• Resolution for Lawron Trail Riders Snowmobile Club Trail Improvement Program Grant Application
• Storage Lease Agreement with Holmstrom Inc.
• Storage Lease Agreement with RK Motorsports
• No Net Gain of Public Land Resolution

The Itasca County Board approved a proposed 2023 tax levy of $41,266,142, a 0% increase over 2022, and set a public hearing for December 13, 2022. The board also approved $2.56 million in commissioner warrants, $1.11 million in health and human services warrants, and storage leases with Holmstrom Inc. and RK Motorsports. Commissioners discussed a No Net Gain of Public Land resolution and appointed an ad hoc committee to continue the discussion.

• Approved 2023 proposed levy of $41,266,142 (0% increase) (3-0)
• Approved commissioner warrants of $2,556,922.37 (3-0)
• Approved ICHHS warrants of $1,113,813.33 (3-0)
• Approved storage lease with Holmstrom Inc. for $6,496.10 (3-0)
• Approved storage lease with RK Motorsports for $9,847.50 (3-0)
• Adopted 4-H Week proclamation for Oct 2-8, 2022 (3-0)
• Adopted Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Month proclamation for Nov 2022 (3-0)
• Approved proceeding with Local Option Sales Tax education process (3-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners is holding a work session to review grant awards and lease agreements. The board will also discuss a trail proposal from the Keewatin Trail Runners.

• Acceptance of 2022-2023 Toward Zero Deaths (TZD) Safe Roads Grant Award for $17,459
• Lawron Trail Riders Snowmobile Club Trail Improvement Program Grant Application
• Storage Lease Agreement with Holmstrom Inc.
• Storage Lease Agreement with RK Motorsports
• Keewatin Trail Runners ATV Trail Proposal

The Itasca County Board held a work session on September 20, 2022, discussing a property tax abatement request from Mesabi Metallics but took no action. The board also received informational updates on a proposed ATV trail connection and approved the agenda and prior meeting minutes. Several items were recommended for the consent agenda for the next regular meeting, including a $17,459 safe roads grant and storage lease agreements.

• Approved agenda as amended (5-0)
• Approved September 13, 2022 regular session minutes (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: Accept $17,459 TZD Safe Roads Grant (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: Adopt Lawron Trail Riders snowmobile trail grant resolution (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: Approve storage lease with Holmstrom Inc. for $6,496.10 (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: Approve storage lease with RK Motorsports for $9,847.50 (5-0)
• Discussed but no action: Mesabi Metallics property tax abatement request
• Discussed but no action: Keewatin Trail Runners ATV trail proposal

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will review two variance requests regarding garage construction and setbacks. The meeting also includes a report from the Water Plan Implementation Committee.

• Variance for 24’x30’ garage addition near S Gama Beach Rd (Charles & Shelly Haben)
• Variance for 28’x48’ garage near White Pine Trail (Gregory & Valerie Enkhaus)
• Water Plan Implementation Committee (WPIC) Report

The Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a variance for Gregory and Valerie Enkhaus to build a 28'x48' garage 34 feet from the centerline of White Pine Trail, with conditions to comply with Best Management Practices and install gutters. A previously tabled variance for the Haben property was withdrawn. Minutes from the August 10 hearing were approved unanimously.

• Approved Enkhaus variance for garage setback from White Pine Trail centerline (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 10, 2022 hearing (unanimous)
• Haben variance withdrawn by applicant

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to address routine consent items and administrative business. The board is deciding on a tobacco license and two medical service contracts.

• Public Hearing for New Canister Site South of Grand Rapids on October 11, 2022
• Tobacco license for Northern Star Cooperative Services dba: Cenex Convenience Center at 105 SE 29th Street
• Contract between Dr. Peter Friedlieb and IMCare for Interim Medical Director services
• Contract between IMCare and Eir Med LLC

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority met on September 13, 2022, and approved the agenda and the minutes from the July 12, 2022 meeting, both by a 5-0 vote. No substantive decisions were made; the only other items were informational updates on car storage and a project update, with no action taken.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved minutes of July 12, 2022 meeting (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to review routine consent items and regular business. The board is deciding on a tobacco license and two medical service contracts for IMCare.

• Public hearing for New Canister Site South of Grand Rapids scheduled for October 11, 2022
• Tobacco license for Northern Star Cooperative Services dba: Cenex Convenience Center at 105 SE 29th Street
• Contract between IMCare and Dr. Peter Friedlieb for Interim Medical Director services
• Contract between IMCare and Eir Med LLC

The Itasca County Board approved $1,626,552.82 in commissioner warrants, a new tobacco license for a Cenex convenience center, and contracts for interim medical director and behavioral health services. A public hearing for a new canister site south of Grand Rapids was set for October 11, 2022. No citizen input was received, and a Fight Blight update was informational only.

• Approved $1,626,552.82 in commissioner warrants (5-0)
• Approved new tobacco license for Northern Star Cooperative Services dba Cenex Convenience Center at 105 SE 29th St, Grand Rapids (5-0)
• Authorized IMCare Director and Board chair to sign interim medical director contract with Dr. Peter Friedlieb (5-0)
• Authorized IMCare Director and Board chair to sign contract with Eir Med LLC for behavioral health services (5-0)
• Approved public hearing for new canister site south of Grand Rapids on October 11, 2022 (5-0)
• Approved agenda as amended to add Fight Blight item (5-0)
• Approved minutes of September 6, 2022 work session (5-0)

County Board

The County Board is holding a work session to discuss the sale of an ambulance and a new canister site. The board is also considering approvals for medical service contracts and a tobacco license.

• Tobacco license for Northern Star Cooperative Services (Cenex Convenience Center) at 105 SE 29th Street
• Contract for Interim Medical Director services with Dr. Peter Friedlieb
• Contract between IMCare and Eir Med LLC
• Discussion on the sale of an ambulance
• Discussion on New Canister Site South

The Itasca County Board held a work session on September 6, 2022, and approved the sale of a 2008 Ford AEV Type 1 Ambulance, purchased jointly with the Bigfork Ambulance Association, with proceeds to be split. The board also recommended three items for the consent agenda at the next regular meeting, including a new tobacco license, an interim medical director contract, and a behavioral health provider contract. A proposed new canister site south of Grand Rapids was discussed but no action was taken, with staff to bring it back later.

• Approved sale of 2008 Ford AEV Type 1 Ambulance (VIN# 1FDXF47R98EC09479), split proceeds with Bigfork Ambulance Association (4-0)
• Recommended for consent: new tobacco license for Cenex Convenience Center of Grand Rapids at 105 SE 29th Street
• Recommended for consent: contract with Dr. Peter Friedlieb for Interim Medical Director services, effective 8/22/22
• Recommended for consent: contract with Eir Med LLC for behavioral health services
• Discussed new canister site south of Grand Rapids; no action taken, to return at future meeting

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners meets to approve routine personnel and financial documents, including updated fringe benefits and employment agreements. The board also adopts a resolution for the 2022 online tax-forfeited land sale and approves a MnDOT detour agreement. A key decision involves the local option sales tax ballot question, alongside updates on construction and pandemic response.

• Adopt resolution for 2022 Online Tax-Forfeited Land Sale via PublicSurplus.com
• Approve MnDOT Detour Agreement NO. 1049901
• Discuss Local Option Sales Tax Ballot Question
• Approve Truancy Prevention Contract between ICHHS and Ross Resources, Ltd.
• Review Project Labor Agreement for CSAH 7

The Itasca County Board approved placing a 1% local option sales and use tax ballot question on the November 2022 General Election to finance up to $75 million for the new Itasca County Criminal Justice Center. The board also approved a series of consent agenda items, including updated fringe benefits and employment agreements, a truancy prevention contract, and a MnDOT detour agreement. A motion to approve health insurance benefit coordination language for county commissioners was withdrawn and directed to staff for revision.

• Approved resolution for 1% sales tax ballot question for $75M Justice Center (4-0)
• Approved updated Fringe Benefits - County Commissioners (5-0)
• Approved updated fringe benefits agreements for County Assessor, Engineer, Surveyor, and Veteran's Service Officer (4-0)
• Approved updated employment agreements for County Administrator and Health & Human Services Director (4-0)
• Approved IMCare Q2 2022 financial statements (4-0)
• Approved $452,000 truancy prevention contract with Ross Resources, Ltd. (4-0)
• Adopted MnDOT Detour Agreement No. 1049901 for CSAH 73 bridge work (4-0)
• Approved utility easement for Lake Country Power on tax-forfeited land (4-0)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners is conducting a work session to review various items before they come to a regular session for official action. Discussion topics include fringe benefits for several county positions and the 2022 online tax-forfeited land sale.

• Approval of updated fringe benefits for County Assessor, County Engineer, Veteran's Service Officer, and County Surveyor
• Approval of updated Health and Human Services Director and County Administrator employment agreements
• Truancy Prevention Contract between ICHHS and Ross Resources, Ltd. (Sept 1, 2022 - Aug 31, 2023)
• MnDOT Detour Agreement NO. 1049901
• Terms of Sale for the 2022 Online Tax-Forfeited Land Sale via PublicSurplus.com

The Itasca County Board held a work session and regular session. The board approved the agenda and prior minutes, and recommended 13 consent agenda items for final approval at the next regular session, including updated fringe benefit agreements, a truancy prevention contract, a MnDOT detour agreement, a utility easement, and the 2022 online tax-forfeited land sale. During the work session, the board approved keeping the 3-step premium participation language for commissioner retiree insurance and directed staff to update health insurance benefit coordination language for a future consent agenda.

• Approved agenda as amended (5-0)
• Approved minutes of August 10, 2022 regular session (5-0)
• Recommended 13 consent agenda items for August 23, 2022 approval
• Approved keeping 3-step premium participation language for commissioner retiree insurance (5-0)
• Withdrew motion on health insurance benefit coordination language; directed staff to update and place on future consent agenda
• Recommended adopting resolution for 2022 online tax-forfeited land sale (Oct 17-28, 2022)
• Recommended approving MnDOT Detour Agreement No. 1049901 for $9,534.54
• Recommended approving truancy prevention contract with Ross Resources, Ltd. up to $452,000

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will review four variance requests regarding building setbacks for garages, a pole building, and a cabin addition. The meeting also includes a report from the Water Plan Implementation Committee.

• Garage addition setback variance: S Gama Beach Rd (Charles & Shelly Haben)
• Garage setback variance: County Rd. 53, Hartley Lake (Richard & Jacqueline Ziegler)
• Pole building setback variance: East Shore Dr, Lone Pine Township (Alan Briski)
• After-the-fact cabin addition setback variance: Shoal Lake (Nancy & Keith Sjoquist)

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved three variance applications for garage constructions, tabled one variance for further review, and denied an after-the-fact variance for a cabin addition. All decisions were unanimous. The denied variance requires the addition to be removed within 180 days.

• Tabled Charles & Shelly Haben's variance for a 24'x30' garage addition at 36' from S. Gama Beach Road until 9/14/2022 (unanimous)
• Approved Richard & Jacqueline Ziegler's amended variance for a 32'x50' garage at 62' from Wolf Lake Trail centerline, with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved Alan Briski's variance for a 36'x64' garage at 80' from E. Shore Drive centerline, with conditions (unanimous)
• Denied Nancy & Keith Sjoquist's after-the-fact variance for an 8'x8' cabin addition 6' from Shoal Lake OHWL, with removal within 180 days (unanimous)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will consider several contracts, including a dental provider agreement and a lease for the North Star Expo. The meeting also includes a contract award for the Fairgrounds Park Campground and a discussion on letters of support for the Huber Project.

• Final payment for Contract 65204 (grading and base project on CSAH 52)
• Contract between IMCare and Children's Dental Services
• Lease agreement with MN Timber Producers Inc. for 2022 North Star Expo at Itasca County Fairgrounds
• Fairgrounds Park Campground contract award
• Letters of support for the Huber Project

The Itasca County Board approved a resolution requesting state disaster assistance for public property damage from the June 20-24, 2022 severe storm/wind event. The board also approved a letter of support for the Huber Engineered Wood Project, awarded a contract for the Fairgrounds Park Campground project, and approved routine consent items including a final payment for a road project.

• Approved Resolution 2022-50 requesting state disaster assistance for June 20-24 storm damage (4-0)
• Authorized letter of support to Governor Walz for Huber Engineered Wood Project (4-0)
• Awarded Fairgrounds Park Campground contract to Casper Construction, Inc. at $779,908 base bid plus $38,443.50 and $24,000 alternates (4-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $3,492,084.98 (4-0)
• Approved final payment for Contract 65204, grading/base project on CSAH 52 (4-0)
• Authorized IMCare contract with Children's Dental Services (4-0)
• Approved lease agreement with MN Timber Producers for 2022 North Star Expo (4-0)

County Board

The County Board will conduct a work session to review specific projects and receive informational updates. Discussion topics include the Huber Project, a SWCD update, and a project labor agreement for CSAH 7.

• Final payment for grading and base project on CSAH 52
• Contract between IMCare and Children's Dental Services
• Lease agreement for the 2022 North Star Expo at Itasca County Fairgrounds
• Discussion of letters of support for the Huber Project
• Discussion of Project Labor Agreement for CSAH 7

The Itasca County Board approved a fireworks permit for August 19, 2022, near Swan Lake in Pengilly, and directed staff to draft letters of support for the Huber Project. Several items were recommended for the next regular session, including final payment for a road project, a dental services contract, a fairgrounds lease, a project labor agreement waiver for CSAH 7, and the Fairgrounds Park Campground project. The board also received informational updates from the SWCD and citizen input.

• Approved fireworks permit for Aug 19 display near Swan Lake (4-0)
• Directed staff to draft Huber Project support letters
• Recommended final payment for CSAH 52 grading project ($2,502,945.24)
• Recommended IMCare contract with Children's Dental Services
• Recommended lease for 2022 North Star Expo at fairgrounds
• Recommended waiving project labor agreement for CSAH 7
• Recommended Fairgrounds Park Campground project (low bid $779,908)
• Approved agenda and minutes (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to vote on several consent items, including a road construction contract and a liquor license. The session also includes updates on COVID-19 and Family & Child Services.

• Contract 59201 for Harris Township, Sunny Beach Road Project to Hawkinson Construction for $1,731,486.25
• One Day Liquor License for Great Tails Animal Rescue fundraiser on October 21, 2022
• Repurchase of South 197' Lot 8, BLK 8 1st Add Cohasset by John Valentine
• Adoption of the Stepping Up Initiative to reduce people with mental illnesses in jails
• Approval of IMCare Compliance Plan, Standards of Conduct and related policies

The Itasca County Board approved the consent agenda, which included awarding a $1,731,486.25 road construction contract to Hawkinson Construction for the Harris Township Sunny Beach Road Project. The board also approved a one-day liquor license for Great Tails Animal Rescue, the IMCare compliance plan, and a resolution for the sheriff to join the Stepping Up initiative to reduce mental illness in jails. Two informational items, the HHS Family & Child Services Update and the COVID-19 Update, were pulled from the agenda.

• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Awarded $1,731,486.25 contract to Hawkinson Construction for Sunny Beach Road Project (5-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Great Tails Animal Rescue fundraiser (5-0)
• Approved IMCare Compliance Plan, Standards of Conduct and related policies (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-45 for Sheriff to join Stepping Up Initiative (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-49 for John Valentine to repurchase tax-forfeited property for $2,278.12 (5-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants for $2,367,835.78 (5-0)
• Approved ICHHS Department Warrants for July 2022 (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners is holding a work session to review several items for potential action. The board is discussing infrastructure contracts, liquor licenses, and mental health initiatives.

• Contract 59201 for Harris Township, Sunny Beach Road Project to Hawkinson Construction for $1,731,486.25
• One Day Liquor License for Great Tails Animal Rescue fundraiser at 27037 Baich Road, Bovey, MN
• Resolution regarding the Stepping Up Initiative to reduce people with mental illnesses in jails
• Public Hearing for Conditional Use Permit for Ryan Boldt
• Public Hearing for Conditional Use Permit for Brandon Jahn

The Itasca County Board held a work session on July 19, 2022, approving two conditional use permits for off-season boat storage and a commercial contracting business. The board also directed the county administrator to proceed with a water appropriations permit request for Canisteo Pit de-watering and approved a gambling permit. Several items were recommended for the consent agenda at the next regular session.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Ryan Boldt for off-season boat storage (5-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Brandon Jahn for commercial office/shop/storage (5-0)
• Directed County Administrator to proceed with Water Appropriations Permit for Canisteo Pit de-watering (consensus)
• Approved gambling premises permit for American Legion Post 122 at Chapman Resorts LLC (5-0)
• Approved right of way application submittal to Leech Lake Band/BIA for CR 149 Bridge Replacement (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: One Day Liquor License for Great Tails Animal Rescue (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: Award of $1,731,486.25 contract to Hawkinson Construction for Sunny Beach Road (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: Resolution to join Stepping Up Initiative for mental illness in jails (5-0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment are meeting to discuss several conditional use permits. These requests involve land use for storage, commercial office space, and infrastructure projects.

• Off-season boat storage in Unorganized Township 56-26 (Ryan Boldt)
• Commercial office space and contracting shop/storage in Harris Township 54-25 (Brandon Jahn)
• 18,000 gallon propane storage tank in Marcell Township 59-26 (Ferrellgas)
• 343-foot communications tower in Ardenhurst Township 150-28 (Tillman Infrastructure/Jon Adams)
• RV Campground in Alvwood Township 149-28 (Mark Michalek)

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment met on July 13, 2022, and acted on five conditional use permit (CUP) applications. It recommended approval of two commercial CUPs (off-season boat storage and a contracting business) to the County Board, and approved three other CUPs (propane storage tank, communications tower, and RV campground) with conditions. All votes were unanimous.

• Recommended approval of Ryan Boldt's CUP for off-season boat storage (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Brandon Jahn's CUP for commercial office/shop/storage (unanimous)
• Approved Ferrellgas CUP for 18,000-gallon propane tank, with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved Jon Adams/Tillman Infrastructure CUP for 335' communications tower (unanimous)
• Approved Mark Michalek CUP for RV campground with 21 sites (unanimous)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will consider several housing support agreements and a resolution objecting to 2023 health plan selections. The board is also reviewing a management agreement for Ecumen Grand Village and dangerous dog designations.

• Contract award of $168,422.00 to Utility Systems of America, Inc. for Nashwauk TWP, South Sucker Lake Road Bridge/Culvert Replacement
• Appointment of Leo Trunt to the Itasca County Housing and Redevelopment Authority
• Resolution objecting to 2023 Minnesota Department of Human Services Selection of Participating Health Plans
• Review of Ecumen Grand Village Management Agreement
• Review of Dangerous Dog Designations

The Itasca County Board approved the consent agenda, including a $168,422 bridge contract, several housing support agreements, and resolutions on state aid and tax-forfeited land sales. The board also approved a new management agreement for Grand Village Nursing Home with Ecumen Services (4-1) and removed a dangerous dog designation. All other actions were approved unanimously (5-0).

• Approved $1,694,993.82 in Commissioner Warrants (5-0)
• Approved Ecumen Grand Village Management Agreement (4-1)
• Awarded $168,422 bridge/culvert contract to Utility Systems of America (5-0)
• Approved $836,464.87 state aid highway funds advance (5-0)
• Adopted resolution authorizing tax-forfeited land sale to adjoining landowners (5-0)
• Approved housing support agreements with Grace House, Patty Beech, KOOTASCA, and Northland Counseling (5-0)
• Removed dangerous dog designation for dog owned by Jerome and Diane Janicke (5-0)
• Awarded $214,950 Len Hardy Memorial ATV/Snowmobile Trail contract to Wm. J Schwartz and Sons (5-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority approved a 5-0 motion to reschedule its August 9, 2022 regular session to Wednesday, August 10, 2022 at 2:00 PM in the Itasca County Boardroom, because the Auditor/Treasurer's office requested the Boardroom for in-person voting on the original date. The board also received an informational update on potential storage of up to 600 empty petroleum tank cars on ICRRA tracks, with no action taken. The agenda and minutes of the April 12, 2022 meeting were approved unanimously.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved minutes of April 12, 2022 meeting (5-0)
• Rescheduled August 9, 2022 regular session to August 10, 2022 at 2:00 PM (5-0)
• Car storage update received, no action taken

County Board

The Itasca County Board received a tour of the Swan River Garage as an informational item. No formal decisions or votes were made during this agenda item.

• Received tour of Swan River Garage (informational, no action)

County Board

The Itasca County Board received a tour of the Nashwauk Garage as an informational item. No formal action was taken on the matter.

• Received tour of Nashwauk Garage (informational, no action)

County Board

The Itasca County Board received a tour of the Itasca County Togo Garage as an informational item. No formal action was taken on this agenda item.

• Received tour of Togo Garage (informational, no action)

County Board

The Itasca County Board received a tour of the Balsam Garage as an informational item. No decisions were made or actions taken during this agenda item.

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Board of Adjustment approved all three variance applications on the agenda, each with a condition to comply with Best Management Practices. The variances allow construction of a dwelling, a pole building, and a shop addition closer to roads or property lines than normally permitted. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Rich variance for 28'x32' dwelling 27' from road right-of-way (unanimous)
• Approved Amato variance for 30'x40' pole building 32' from road centerline (unanimous)
• Approved Erickson amended variance for 30'x40' shop addition 32' from centerline, 4' from side lot line (unanimous)

County Board

The County Board is holding a work session to review several items for potential future action. This includes a proposed bridge and culvert replacement contract and discussions on labor contracts and public health nuisances.

• Contract 59916 for Nashwauk TWP, South Sucker Lake Road Bridge/Culvert Replacement to Utility Systems of America, Inc. for $168,422.00
• Appointment of Leo Trunt to the Itasca County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA)
• Discussion of 2022-2024 Labor Contract for MN Teamsters Public and Law Enforcement Employees' Union, Local No. 320
• Order to Abate a Public Health Nuisance
• Tax-Forfeited Land Sale to Adjoining Landowners

The Itasca County Board approved the 2022-2024 labor contract with Teamsters Local 320 for Probation Officers, an order to abate a public health nuisance on a property in Grand Rapids, and resolutions supporting snowmobile trail improvement grant applications for the 38er's and Driftskippers clubs. The board also rescheduled the August 9 regular session to August 10 due to elections and recommended several items for the consent agenda at the next regular meeting.

• Approved 2022-2024 Teamsters Local 320 labor contract for Probation Officers (5-0)
• Approved Order to Abate a Public Health Nuisance on Thomas Cichy Jr.'s property (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-43 supporting 38er's Snowmobile Club trail grant application (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-44 supporting Driftskippers Snowmobile Club trail grant application (5-0)
• Rescheduled August 9 Regular Session to August 10, 2022 (5-0)
• Appointed Commissioner Trunt as delegate to Highway 169 Cross Range Study Advisory Committee (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: Award $168,422 bridge/culvert contract to Utility Systems of America
• Recommended for consent: Appoint Leo Trunt to HRA board

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will review several management and support agreements. The board is also discussing updates to the Bass Lake Park Campground fee schedule and a utility easement for Lake Country Power.

• Application for a Family Services Collaborative from the Blandin Foundation up to $140,000 over two years
• Bass Lake Park Campground Fee Schedule
• Utility Easement for Lake Country Power on Tax-Forfeited Trust Land
• Contract award to ASAP Heating and Air Conditioning
• Ecumen Grand Village Management Agreement

County Board

The Itasca County Board received a tour of the Itasca County Cohasset Garage as an informational item. No formal decision was made, and no action was taken on this agenda item.

County Board

The Itasca County Board received a tour of the Deer River Garage as an informational item. No formal decision was made; the item was presented for the board's awareness only.

• Received tour of Deer River Garage (informational, no action)

County Board

The Itasca County Board received an informational tour of the Itasca County Max Garage as part of agenda item RBA-2022-2452. No formal decision, approval, or vote was made during this item; it was recorded as informational with no action taken.

• Received tour of Itasca County Max Garage (informational, no action)

County Board

The Itasca County Board received a tour of the Itasca County Bigfork Garage as an informational item. No formal action was taken on this agenda item.

• Received tour of Bigfork Garage (informational, no action)

County Board

The Itasca County Board received a tour of the Arbo Garage as an informational item. No formal decisions or votes were made during this agenda item.

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved a conditional use permit (CUP) for LVT LLC for outdoor storage of trailers and recreational vehicles, following a public hearing. The board also appointed election judges, established an absentee ballot board, approved a new liquor license, and a gambling permit. Several items were discussed but no action was taken, including the Squaw Lake Canister Site relocation, Bass Lake campground fees, and the Ecumen Grand Village management agreement.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit for LVT LLC outdoor storage (4-0)
• Appointed mail ballot and absentee ballot election judges for 2022 elections (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-41 establishing an Absentee Ballot Board (4-0)
• Approved new Off-Sale Liquor License for Max Mini Store Inc. (4-0)
• Approved gambling permit for Grand Rapids Amateur Hockey Association at Sure Game Resort (4-0)
• Approved agenda as amended (4-0)
• Approved minutes of June 9 and June 14 meetings (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to vote on several consent items, including a managed care organization for medical assistance programs. The board will also discuss a dust control petition for CR 447 and an appeal regarding a new road request.

• Selection of Itasca Medical Care (IMCare) for Families and Children Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare Programs
• Master Partnership Contract with MnDOT and Bridge Funding Agreement No. 1045701 for SAP 031-598-031
• Joint Powers Agreement to form the Aitkin-Itasca-Mille Lacs Violent Crimes Enforcement Team (AIM VCET)
• 2022 Lease Agreement with Reif Arts Council for the Grand Jam Concert
• Petition for dust control on CR 447

The Itasca County Board approved a consent agenda that included selecting Itasca Medical Care (IMCare) as the managed care organization for Families and Children Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare programs. The board also approved a $1.24 million warrant payment, denied a dust control petition for CR 447, and failed to overturn a denial of a new road access request. A motion to direct the Land Department to work with the road access applicant was approved.

• Approved IMCare as managed care organization for Families and Children Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare (5-0)
• Approved $1,238,918.59 in commissioner warrants (5-0)
• Denied petition for dust control on CR 447 (4-1)
• Denied appeal of administrative decision on new road access request (2-3, failed)
• Approved directing Land Department to work with Mr. Klinker on possible road routes (3-2)
• Approved MnDOT Master Partnership Contract (5-0)
• Approved $571,672 bridge grant agreement for SAP 031-598-031 (5-0)
• Approved Joint Powers Agreement for AIM VCET (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board received a tour of the Land Department as an informational item. No formal action was taken on this agenda item.

• Received tour of Land Department (informational, no action)

County Board

The Itasca County Board received an informational tour of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on June 9, 2022. No formal decisions or votes were made during this agenda item; it was purely informational.

• Received tour of Emergency Operations Center (informational, no action)

County Board

The Itasca County Board received a tour of the Itasca Resource Center (IRC) as an informational item. No formal action was taken on this agenda item.

• Received tour of Itasca Resource Center (informational, no action)

County Board

The Itasca County Board received a tour of the Sheriff's Department Northside Property as an informational item. No formal action was taken on the matter.

• Received tour of Sheriff's Department Northside Property (informational, no action)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment recommended approval of a conditional use permit for LVT LLC/Andrew MacDonell for outdoor and future indoor storage of trailers and boats on a residential-zoned parcel. The recommendation includes conditions for shielded lighting and conifer screening along County Road 257. The County Board will make the final decision after a public hearing on 6/21/2022. The meeting also approved the previous minutes and removed the WPIC report from the agenda.

• Approved minutes of 5/11/2022 hearing (continued 5/24/2022) unanimously
• Removed WPIC report from agenda (no meeting held)
• Recommended approval of LVT LLC CUP for outdoor storage and 54'x130' storage building unanimously
• Closed public input on LVT LLC CUP unanimously

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved $300,000 in ARP funds for the goMARTI Autonomous Vehicle Project (4-0) and approved $996,980 in county ARP fund requests (4-0). The board also approved a motion (3-1) to remove $10,000 for PPE and $50,000 for Future Public Health Response, adding $60,000 to IT-related expenses. Two informational items on ARPA surveys and fund updates were presented with no action taken.

• Approved $300,000 in ARP funds for goMARTI Autonomous Vehicle Project (4-0)
• Approved $996,980 in county ARP fund requests (4-0)
• Approved removing $10,000 PPE and $50,000 Future Public Health Response, adding $60,000 to IT expenses (3-1)
• No action taken on ARPA Spring 2022 Survey (informational)
• No action taken on ARP Fund Update (informational)
• Consensus not to schedule another special session on ARP funding

County Board

The Itasca County Board declared a state of emergency due to damage from the May 30, 2022 tornado, heavy winds, rain, and flooding, and authorized a request for a Preliminary Damage Assessment from the state. The board also approved a cooperative construction agreement with Grand Rapids for a roundabout at CSAH 3 and 7th Avenue, and awarded the CSAH 3 improvements project to TNT Construction Group, LLC. Several other items were recommended for the consent agenda at the next regular session.

• Declared state of emergency for May 30 storm damage (4-0)
• Approved cooperative construction agreement with Grand Rapids for roundabout at CSAH 3 & 7th Ave (4-0)
• Awarded CSAH 3 improvements project to TNT Construction Group, LLC (4-0)
• Scheduled additional 2022 Board of Appeal and Equalization dates (4-0)
• Rescheduled County Facilities Tour to June 27 and July 11 (4-0)
• Approved agenda as amended, pulling two items for discussion (4-0)
• Approved minutes of May 24 regular session (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved a consent agenda including a $903,861.64 contract for the CR 149 bridge replacement, a $1.4 million transfer for unorganized township road maintenance, and a resolution sponsoring the Herb Brandstrom ATV/OHM trail. They also approved a $63,800 electric service contract for the Bass Lake Campground expansion (4-1) and various warrants and expenses. The board rescheduled the June 2 facilities tour to June 6.

• Approved $903,861.64 contract for CR 149 bridge replacement to Gerit Hanson Contracting (5-0)
• Approved $1,400,000 transfer from unorganized township road accounts to County Road and Bridge fund (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-36 sponsoring Herb Brandstrom ATV/OHM trail (5-0)
• Approved $63,800 electric service contract to Evans Electric for Bass Lake Campground (4-1)
• Approved $4,106,810.86 in commissioner warrants (5-0)
• Approved $1,219,548.40 in ICHHS warrants for May 2022 (5-0)
• Approved employee expense reimbursements over 60 days (4-0, Snyder abstained)
• Rescheduled County Facilities Tour from June 2 to June 6, 2022

County Board

The County Board is holding a work session to review items for future official action. Discussion topics include budget scheduling, legal services for lake access appeals, and a public hearing on a rezone application.

• Transfer of $1,400,000 from Unorganized Township road and bridge accounts to the County Road and Bridge fund
• Bid award for Contract 59831 - CR149 Bridge Replacement
• Public hearing regarding a rezone application by Mark Michalek and Daniel Swenson
• Authorization of outside counsel for a Minnesota Supreme Court appeal regarding public access to lakes and waterways
• Scheduling of a 2023 budget and preliminary levy work session for August 1, 2022

The Itasca County Board approved a rezone of Mark Michalek's property from Farm Residential to Light Industrial Commercial, allowing for a future conditional use permit for a campground. The board also recommended several items for the consent agenda, including a $903,861.64 bridge replacement contract and a $1.4 million fund transfer for road maintenance. A request to appeal a denied road access was discussed, with the board directing staff to gather more information.

• Approved rezone of property at 01-007-4401 from Farm Residential to Light Industrial Commercial (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: Award CR 149 Bridge Replacement contract to Gerit Hanson Contracting, Inc. for $903,861.64
• Recommended for consent: Transfer $1,400,000 from Unorganized Township road and bridge accounts to County Road and Bridge fund
• Recommended for consent: Authorize retention of outside counsel for Minnesota Supreme Court appeal
• Recommended for consent: Approve out-of-state travel for Veteran Service staff to San Antonio, TX conference for $5,535.75
• Recommended for consent: Adopt resolution for Herb Brandstrom ATV/OHM Trail sponsorship with Swampsiders Snowmobile/ATV Club
• Approved removal of Northeast Service Cooperative Blue Cross/Blue Shield wording from Fringe Benefits document (5-0)
• Directed staff to gather additional information on appeal of denied road access request

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will meet to consider a rezoning request and a conditional use permit amendment. The Board of Adjustment will also review a variance request for a porch addition near Highland Lake.

• Rezone from Farm Residential to Light Industrial Commercial in Alvwood Township (Mark Michalek)
• Conditional Use Permit Amendment for Recreational Development 2 Class in Marcell Township (Dream Life LLC, Rodney Ernhart)
• Variance request for a screen porch setback from the Ordinary High Water Level of Highland Lake (Muir Highland Lake Trust/Peggy Marshall)

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment denied Rodney Ernhart's request to amend Conditional Use Permit #190670 for the Dream Life RV campground, clarifying that the 100-foot buffer applies along the east-west and north-south property lines as shown on GIS map PCBA 22. The board also approved a variance for a screen porch addition on Highland Lake, recommended approval of a rezone in Alvwood Township, and tabled a junk/salvage yard update until June.

• Denied CUP #190670 amendment for Dream Life RV campground (unanimous)
• Approved variance for Peggy Marshall for 7'x16' screen porch addition 24' from OHWL (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of rezone from Farm Residential to Light Industrial Commercial for Mark Michalek (unanimous)
• Tabled David CUP final review for junk/salvage yard until June meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 4/13/2022 hearing (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)

County Board

The County Board of Commissioners will meet to vote on various consent items, including lease extensions and utility easements. The board is also discussing the reappointment of the County Engineer and an order to abate a public health nuisance.

• Award of $184,128.00 to Sir Lines-A-Lot, LLC for 2022 Pavement Markings
• Authorization for the Auditor/Treasurer's office to apply for a Drop Box Grant up to $15,000
• Liquor licenses for SGWild Corporation dba Sure Game Wilderness Resort at 52385 County Road 31
• Adoption of the Itasca County Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Appointment of Leah Griffen to the Itasca County Housing and Redevelopment Authority

The Itasca County Board approved a consent agenda including a $184,128 contract for 2022 pavement markings, reappointed Karin Grandia as County Engineer for a four-year term, and adopted resolutions supporting a MnDOT grant application for US Highway 169 improvements. The board also approved a memorandum of understanding increasing employee contributions to the Post Health Care Savings Plan for Local 580 union members.

• Approved 2022 Pavement Markings contract to Sir Lines-A-Lot, LLC for $184,128 (5-0)
• Reappointed Karin Grandia as County Engineer for May 16, 2022 - May 15, 2026 (5-0)
• Approved Local 580 MOU increasing employee Post Health Care Savings Plan contribution from 2% to 4% (5-0)
• Adopted resolution supporting MnDOT Rural Surface Transportation Grant application for US Hwy 169 (5-0)
• Approved $1,221,934.33 in Commissioner Warrants (5-0)
• Approved Drop Box Grant application up to $15,000 for elections (5-0)
• Adopted Itasca County All-Hazard Mitigation Plan (5-0)
• Approved road easement exchange with Alvwood COS, LLC (5-0)

County Board

The County Board is holding a work session to review several consent agenda items and receive a presentation on the Local Option Sales Tax. The body is discussing various lease extensions, utility easements, and healthcare provider selections.

• Award County Project 2022-04 for 2022 Pavement Markings to Sir Lines-A-Lot, LLC for $184,128.00
• Liquor licenses for SGWild Corporation dba Sure Game Wilderness Resort at 52385 County Road 31, Wirt MN
• Lease extensions for Kootasca Community Action, Inc and Independent School District #318
• Selection of Itasca Medical Care (IMCare) and Medica as Managed Care Organizations
• Utility easements for electric telecommunication lines across tax-forfeited trust lands

The Itasca County Board held a work session on May 3, 2022, and took no final action on any item. The board received a presentation on a proposed 1% local option sales tax to finance the $75 million Correctional Facility/Courts construction project, which will be on the November 8, 2022 ballot. All 13 items on the recommended consent agenda were forwarded to the May 10 regular session for approval, including a $184,128 pavement markings contract and two HRA resignations.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved April 26 regular session minutes (4-0)
• Recommended 13 consent agenda items for May 10 approval
• Heard citizen input on blight at 30591 Wabana Road (no action)
• Received Local Option Sales Tax presentation (no action)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will review several service agreements and grant applications. The meeting includes discussions on a labor agreement and the allocation of Secure Rural Schools Act funds for wildfire protection.

• 2022/2023 Annual Road Maintenance Agreements
• Allocation of $27,506.49 (2018) and $24,192.99 (2019) SRS Title III funds for wildfire protection
• Firewise Coordinator service contract with Moore Outdoor Services, LLC for $31,360.00
• 2022 Lease Agreement with Northern Minnesota Swap Meet and Car Show
• 2022 Fairgrounds Race Track Agreement with Grand Rapids Speedway Inc.

The Itasca County Board approved the 2022-2024 labor agreement with the Itasca County Attorney Employees Association (AEA), which includes 2% salary increases in 2022 and 2023 and a 2.65% increase in 2024. The board also approved a resolution supporting an increase in state PILT payments to the county, which would be a 56% increase if passed. All votes were 3-0, with two commissioners absent.

• Approved 2022-2024 AEA labor agreement with 2%, 2%, 2.65% raises (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-27 supporting increased PILT payments (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-28 proclaiming County Government Appreciation Day (3-0)
• Approved $3,014,721.38 in Commissioner Warrants (3-0)
• Approved $2,153,083.61 in ICHHS warrants (3-0)
• Approved consent agenda including road maintenance, fairgrounds leases, timber auction, Firewise items (3-0)
• Approved IMCare Quality Program documents (3-0)

County Board

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

• American Rescue Plan (ARP) Fund Update
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) Fund Requests

The Itasca County Board approved a series of American Rescue Plan (ARP) fund allocations totaling over $2.3 million, including $918,650 for city and non-profit projects, up to $629,642 for a broadband project with Paul Bunyan Communications, and $350,000 for Greenway ISD 316. A request for $88,885.38 in fire protection funds for six townships failed on a 2-3 vote, and a $108,916.38 version died for lack of a second. The board also scheduled a special session for June 7, 2022 to continue ARP funding discussions.

• Approved $918,650 in ARP funds for 16 city and non-profit projects (4-1)
• Approved up to $629,642 for Zone N broadband project with Paul Bunyan Communications (4-1)
• Approved $350,000 for Greenway ISD 316 (5-0)
• Approved $125,000 payment to Taconite Fire Department contingent on project completion by June 2025 (5-0)
• Approved $50,000 for Grand Rapids ISD 318 Community & School Enhancement Project in Bigfork (5-0)
• Approved $200,000 for IEDC e2ip Building (5-0)
• Denied $88,885.38 in fire protection funds for six townships (2-3)
• Scheduled special session on ARP funding for June 7, 2022 (5-0)

County Board

The County Board is meeting for a work session to discuss a rezone application and review county valuations. The board is also considering several maintenance and lease agreements and the allocation of Secure Rural Schools Act funds.

• Public hearing for rezone application by Joshua and Angela Eschenbach
• Proposed contract for Firewise Coordinator services with Moore Outdoor Services, LLC for $31,360.00
• Allocation of 2018 SRS Title III funds ($27,506.49) and 2019 SRS Title III funds ($24,192.99) for wildfire protection
• 2022/2023 Annual Road Maintenance Agreements
• Lease agreement with Northern Minnesota Swap Meet and Car Show and race track agreement with Grand Rapids Speedway Inc.

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will meet to consider conditional use permits and a rezoning request. The Board of Adjustment will review a variance request for a cabin addition on Sand Lake. The meeting also includes a report from the Water Plan Implementation Committee.

• Conditional Use for dog and cat boarding kennel in Oteneagen Township
• Conditional Use renewal for extractive use in Unorganized Township 58-26
• Rezone from industrial to farm residential in Arbo Township
• Variance for cabin, porch, and deck additions on Sand Lake
• Water Plan Implementation Committee (WPIC) Report

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved a conditional use permit for a dog and cat boarding kennel, renewed an extractive use permit for Hawkinson Construction, and approved a variance for a cabin addition near Sand Lake. It also recommended approval of a rezone from Industrial to Farm Residential for the Eschenbach property, which will go to the County Board. All decisions were unanimous.

• Approved amended CUP for dog/cat boarding kennel (Anderson) (unanimous)
• Approved CUP renewal for extractive use (Hawkinson Construction) (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of rezone from Industrial to Farm Residential (Eschenbach) (unanimous)
• Approved variance for cabin addition near Sand Lake (Safarz) (unanimous)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Regional Railroad Authority will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and receive a project update. No formal decisions or votes on new contracts are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of February 8, 2022 meeting minutes
• Project update discussion

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority held a regular session on April 12, 2022, with four of five commissioners present. The only substantive agenda item was an informational project update, for which no action was taken. The meeting was brief and procedural, with no decisions made.

• Approved agenda as presented (4-0)
• Approved minutes of January 11, 2022 meeting (4-0)
• Received informational project update; no action taken

County Board

The Board of Commissioners is holding a special session to discuss the American Rescue Plan (ARP) fund. The meeting includes updates on the fund and reviews of both external and county funding requests.

• American Rescue Plan (ARP) Fund Update
• External American Rescue Plan (ARP) Funding Requests
• County Requests for American Rescue Plan (ARP) Funding

County Board

The Board of Commissioners is meeting for a special session to review American Rescue Plan (ARP) fund updates and funding requests. The agenda also includes discussions regarding local emergency services and broadband.

• American Rescue Plan (ARP) fund updates and funding requests
• Blackduck Ambulance
• e2ip Building
• Taconite Fire Department
• Broadband update

The Itasca County Board held a special session to discuss American Rescue Plan (ARP) fund allocations, receiving updates on the $8.77 million in federal funds and reviewing external and county requests. No funding decisions were made, but the board approved scheduling another special session for March 28, 2022, to continue ARP discussions. The board also adjusted the encumbered amount for the Keewatin Fire Department from $12,290 to $12,260.

• Approved scheduling a special session on ARP funding for March 28, 2022 at 11 AM (4-0)
• Adjusted Keewatin Fire Department ARP encumbrance from $12,290 to $12,260
• Added Bigfork Fire Department item to the agenda by consensus
• Revisited Blackduck Ambulance ARP request; no action taken
• Discussed e2ip Building in Bigfork; no action taken
• Discussed Greenway ISD 316 ARP request; no action taken
• Received Taconite Fire Department update; no action taken
• Received broadband update; no action taken

County Board

The Itasca County Board held a work session on March 15, 2022, approving several items for the consent agenda and taking action on two agenda items. The board approved sending a letter to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency regarding the Keewatin waste facility site, and scheduled a public hearing to consider establishing the appointed office of Auditor/Treasurer. No final decisions were made on consent agenda items, which are scheduled for approval at the March 22 regular session.

• Approved correspondence to MPCA regarding Keewatin waste facility site (4-0)
• Scheduled public hearing on appointed Auditor/Treasurer for April 12, 2022 (4-0)
• Recommended for consent: Reestablishing precincts and polling places
• Recommended for consent: Bridge design contract with Erickson Engineering for CSAH 61
• Recommended for consent: Approve Land Classification Committee minutes
• Recommended for consent: Approve land classifications from March 8 meeting
• Recommended for consent: Authorize signing 2021 EMPG grant of $28,574

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission is meeting to consider a conditional use permit for an extractive operation. The proposal involves material stockpiling and rock processing near Twin Lake.

• Conditional use request for extractive use in NE SW, Section 17, Goodland Township 55-22 (Wayne & Nancy Roberts)

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved a conditional use permit (CUP) for Wayne and Nancy Roberts for an extractive use (rock crushing, washing, stockpiling, asphalt and hot mix equipment, settling basins) on their property in Goodland Township, with the bituminous activity removed per township request. The approval included conditions limiting crushing to 3 weeks maximum, 6 days per week (Monday–Saturday) from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and no bituminous operations. The board also received an update on the David salvage yard CUP review, noting about 1,000 vehicles remain on the property (300 allowed per CUP) and that snow plowing was underway to facilitate removal.

• Approved amended CUP for Wayne & Nancy Roberts extractive use (unanimous)
• Condition: Crushing limited to 3 weeks max, 6 days/week, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.
• Condition: No bituminous activity
• Approved minutes of 1/12/2022 hearing (unanimous)
• Received update on David salvage yard CUP review (tabled until May 2022)

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved a resolution supporting the Mississippi River – Grand Rapids One Watershed, One Plan (4-1), and approved a professional services contract with S.E.H. for Phase 2 of the S. Lake Paved Trail (5-0). The board also approved the consent agenda, including appointments, contracts, and final payments for road projects, and approved commissioner warrants totaling $480,499.96.

• Adopted Resolution 2022-18 supporting Mississippi River – Grand Rapids One Watershed, One Plan (4-1)
• Approved $10,545.80 contract with S.E.H. for S. Lake Phase 2 Paved Trail engineering (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including Aimee Johnson appointment to Extension Committee (5-0)
• Approved final payment for Contract 64507 CSAH 45 & CSAH 60 Bituminous Projects (5-0)
• Approved final payment for Contract 66111 CSAH 61 Pedestrian Crossing System (5-0)
• Adopted Five Year Plan for Highway Improvement Projects (5-0)
• Approved commissioner warrants of $480,499.96 (5-0)
• Approved sending CWD letter of support (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board held a work session and approved scheduling a public hearing on redistricting for April 5, 2022. Seven items were recommended for the consent agenda at the next regular session, including appointments, contract payments, and the five-year highway plan. The board also discussed Chronic Wasting Disease options and a watershed plan resolution, taking no action on the former and recommending the latter for the regular session. A closed session was held regarding tax appeals, with the board directing staff to finalize a settlement in one case.

• Scheduled public hearing on redistricting for April 5, 2022 (4-0)
• Recommended Aimee Johnson appointment to Extension Committee for consent
• Recommended final payment for CSAH 45 & 60 bituminous projects for consent
• Recommended final payment for CSAH 61 pedestrian crossing for consent
• Recommended adoption of 2022 Five Year Highway Improvement Plan for consent
• Recommended approval of out-of-state travel for two legal secretaries for consent
• Recommended watershed resolution for regular session on March 8
• Directed staff to finalize settlement in tax appeal 31-CV-20-1077

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners approved the consent agenda, which included contracts for semi-independent living services, a contract extension for the Whole Families Initiative, and a provider agreement with Bechthold Eye Care. The board also approved the 2022 County Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting schedule, the SFY 2023 AIS Program Budget, and resolutions supporting the Mississippi River Headwaters One Watershed One Plan, bridge bonding, a limited use permit for a trail, a grant application for the Marcell Snowdrifters, and the Fairgrounds Park Campground Enhancement Project. Additionally, the board approved commissioner warrants, ICHHS warrants, a Catastrophic Sick Leave Policy, liquor licenses for Anchor Inn Resort, and the TriMin contract ratification.

• Approved the consent agenda, including the LSS SILS agreement, ISD 317 contract extension, and IMCare provider agreement with Bechthold Eye Care.
• Approved the 2022 County Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting schedule for June 13 and June 20, 2022.
• Approved the SFY 2023 Itasca County SWCD AIS Program Budget Proposal.
• Adopted Resolution 2022-13 supporting the Mississippi River Headwaters One Watershed, One Plan Project.
• Adopted Resolution 2022-14 for bridge bonding, listing high-priority bridge projects.
• Adopted Resolution 2022-15 authorizing a Limited Use Permit for a non-motorized trail along Trunk Highway #46.
• Adopted Resolution 2022-16 supporting the Marcell Snowdrifters Federal Recreational Trail Program grant application.
• Adopted Resolution 2022-17 for the Itasca County Fairgrounds Park Campground Enhancement Project IRRRB grant application.

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved allocating $3,686,436.10 in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds to Government Operations, bringing total ARP allocations to $8,765,973. The board also earmarked $1,000,000 for Greenway ISD 316 building projects, pending presentation of requested information, and approved $50,000 for ElderCircle senior center support. Additionally, $150,000 was approved for the Fairgrounds Park Campground project, and a special session was scheduled for March 15, 2022, to revisit the Blackduck Ambulance request and the e2ip Building concept.

• Approved allocating $3,686,436.10 in ARP funds to Government Operations (5-0).
• Earmarked $1,000,000 for Greenway ISD 316 request, pending presentation of information (5-0).
• Approved $50,000 in ARP funds for ElderCircle request (5-0).
• Approved $150,000 in ARP funds for Fairgrounds Park Campground project (5-0).
• Scheduled a special session for March 15, 2022, to discuss ARP funding.
• Consensus to revisit Blackduck Ambulance request at next special session.
• Consensus to revisit e2ip Building concept at next special session.

County Board

The Board is holding a work session to discuss a potential MDHA forest acquisition and the SFY 2023 budget proposal for the Itasca SWCD AIS Program. The meeting includes several recommended approvals for service agreements and forestry contracts.

• Site Preparation Contract awarded to Future Forests Inc. for $53,657.00
• Tree Planting Contract awarded to Champion Forestry Service for $29,787.04
• Purchase of Service Agreement with Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota for Semi-Independent Living Services
• Contract extension with ISD 317 Anishinaabe Education for the Whole Families Initiative
• Limited Use Permit #3109-0031 with the Minnesota Commissioner of Transportation

The Itasca County Board held a work session and recommended seven items for approval on the February 22 consent agenda. These items include a purchase of service agreement with Lutheran Social Services, a contract extension with ISD 317, a provider agreement with Bechthold Eye Care, a limited use permit for a trail, a grant application for a snowmobile groomer, and contracts for site preparation and tree planting. The board also received informational updates on a potential forest acquisition and the AIS program budget, taking no action on these items.

• Recommended for consent: Approve Purchase of Service Agreement with Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota for Semi-Independent Living Services (SILS) for Feb 22 - Dec 31, 2022.
• Recommended for consent: Approve a contract extension with ISD 317 Anishinaabe Education for the Whole Families Initiative.
• Recommended for consent: Authorize IMCare Director and County Board chair to sign a Provider Participation Agreement with Bechthold Eye Care.
• Recommended for consent: Adopt a resolution authorizing a Limited Use Permit with MnDOT for the S. Lake Connector Trail.
• Recommended for consent: Adopt a resolution supporting the Marcell Snowdrifters' Federal Recreational Trail Program grant application for a new Tucker Sno-Cat groomer.
• Recommended for consent: Award the 2022 Site Preparation Contract to Future Forests Inc. for $53,657.00.
• Recommended for consent: Award the 2022 Tree Planting Contract to Champion Forestry Service for $29,787.04.
• Received informational update on a potential MDHA forest acquisition; no action taken.

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved a $4,140,647.19 road construction contract for CSAH 60, CSAH 7, and Shamrock Drive improvements, and accepted a proposal from Flaherty & Hood for lobbying services to promote the Highway 169 Cross Range Expressway. The board also approved the sale of tax-forfeited land to the City of Calumet for affordable housing and authorized applications for state and federal grants. All votes were 4-0 with Commissioner Davin Tinquist absent.

• Awarded Contract 66010 for CSAH 60, CSAH 7, and Shamrock Drive road work to William J. Schwartz and Sons, Inc. for $4,140,647.19 (4-0)
• Accepted Flaherty & Hood proposal for Highway 169 Cross Range Expressway lobbying, funded with ARP funds (4-0)
• Approved sale of tax-forfeited land (Lots 22-27, Block 3) to City of Calumet for $250 for affordable housing (4-0)
• Authorized application for $30,189.36 Help America Vote Act (HAVA) Grant (4-0)
• Approved $841,452.59 in Commissioner Warrants (4-0)
• Approved 2022 Housing Support Agreements and a Public Health Nurse to Social Worker position reallocation (4-0)
• Authorized DNR enforcement grants for snowmobile ($17,736) and OHV ($40,846) patrol (4-0)
• Pulled Bridge Bonding Resolution from agenda (no vote)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority met on February 8, 2022, and approved the agenda and the minutes from the January 11, 2022 meeting, both by a 4-0 vote. No project update was provided, and no other substantive decisions were made. The meeting adjourned at 2:01 PM.

• Approved agenda as presented (4-0)
• Approved minutes of January 11, 2022 meeting (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved the 2022-2024 AFSCME Local 1452 labor contract and a related letter of agreement for Road & Bridge employees, including wage increases of 2% in 2022 and 2023, and 2.65% in 2024. The board also approved a resolution accepting the Wabana Township Shoreland Management Ordinance as at least as restrictive as the county's. Several other items were recommended for the consent agenda at the next regular meeting.

• Approved 2022-2024 AFSCME Local 1452 labor contract (4-0)
• Adopted resolution accepting Wabana Township Shoreland Management Ordinance (4-0)
• Approved joint resolution of annexation with City of Cohasset (4-0)
• Approved agenda as amended to add annexation item (4-0)
• Approved minutes of Jan. 11 and Jan. 25 sessions (4-0)
• Recommended 13 consent agenda items for Feb. 8 approval
• Recommended Flaherty & Hood proposal for Highway 169 lobbying for Feb. 8
• Recommended waiving Project Labor Agreement for CSAH 3 project for Feb. 8

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved the sale of tax-forfeited land to Balsam Township for $16,200 to expand the Balsam Cemetery, and also approved the purchase of 9.88 acres from the township for the same amount. The board approved a consent agenda including a new tobacco license, a highway easement, and a joint powers agreement for a drug task force. It also approved labor contracts, warrants, and a resolution to retain legal counsel for health care program matters.

• Approved sale of tax-forfeited land to Balsam Township for $16,200 (5-0)
• Approved purchase of 9.88 acres from Balsam Township for $16,200 (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including tobacco license, highway easement, and drug task force agreement (5-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants of $1,777,537.90 (5-0)
• Approved ICHHS Warrants of $821,616.81 (5-0)
• Approved Local 1626 MOU for Records Deputy pay and probation (5-0)
• Approved 2022-2024 ICHHSSA labor contract (5-0)
• Approved resolution retaining Lockridge Grindal Nauen PLLP for legal services (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board held a work session and voted 3-2 to require Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) on 2022 transportation projects with an Engineer's Estimate of $2 million or more, excluding the CSAH 3 Bituminous Rehabilitation project. A prior motion to not require PLAs on any 2022 projects failed 2-3. The board also unanimously approved a stay on the county's Vaccination, Testing and Face Covering policy following a Supreme Court ruling, and recommended several items for the next regular session's consent agenda.

• Approved requiring PLAs on 2022 projects over $2M, excluding CSAH 3 (3-2)
• Failed motion to not require PLAs on any 2022 projects (2-3)
• Approved stay on Vaccination, Testing and Face Covering policy (5-0)
• Recommended ARDC appointment change from Snyder to Trunt for consent
• Recommended new tobacco license for Lucky Seven General Stores for consent
• Recommended $9,637.86 tax abatement for Eagle Properties for regular agenda
• Recommended sale of tax-forfeited land to Balsam Township for $16,200 for consent
• Recommended approval of Aitkin-Itasca-Mille Lacs Drug Task Force agreement for consent

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment voted 2-3 to deny Rodney Ernhart/Dream Life LLC's conditional use permit for a resort expansion adding five camping cabins and 15 RV sites. The denial was based on concerns that the previously approved 11 RV sites had not been developed, and the 100-foot buffer condition from the 2019 CUP was not maintained. The board also elected 2022 officers and approved the previous meeting's minutes.

• Denied CUP for resort expansion (5 cabins, 15 RV sites) 2-3
• Elected Mike Bellomy as Chair, Mike Oja as Vice-Chair, Diane Nelson as Secretary
• Approved minutes of 12/8/2021 hearing unanimously

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners is meeting to review a labor contract for confidential employees and discuss county policies regarding COVID-19 vaccinations, testing, and face coverings. The board will also consider several property repurchases and intergovernmental agreements.

• 2022-2024 Labor Contract for Itasca County Confidential Employee Association (ICCEA)
• Cooperative Construction Agreement between Itasca County and the City of Taconite
• Revocable License for Use of Property with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
• Repurchase of Lot Six, Block Two, Keewatin, by Patrick Winkleblack
• Re-appointment of Veteran's Service Officer, Lynn Hart

The Itasca County Board approved a COVID-19 Vaccination, Testing, and Face Covering Policy required by federal and state OSHA mandates, with Commissioner Burl Ives voting against it. The board also approved a 2022-2024 labor contract with the Itasca County Confidential Employees Association (ICCEA) and re-appointed Luke St. Germain as Veterans Service Officer. All other agenda items, including warrants, property repurchases, and agreements, were approved as part of the consent agenda.

• Approved COVID-19 Vaccination, Testing, and Face Covering Policy (3-1)
• Approved 2022-2024 ICCEA labor contract (4-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants of $1,046,836.13 (4-0)
• Approved ICHHS Warrants of $2,635,013.78 (4-0)
• Re-appointed Luke St. Germain as Veterans Service Officer (4-0)
• Approved Cooperative Construction Agreement with City of Taconite (4-0)
• Approved repurchase of tax-forfeited parcels by Winkleblack, Tupper, and Rondeau (4-0)
• Approved withdrawal of property from Dunn-Stephens Memorial Forest (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board approved two American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding requests for fire departments and approved $40,000 for a court process review. The board also discussed the goMARTI autonomous shuttle pilot and made consensus decisions to remove, amend, or merge several other ARP requests. A special session on ARP funding was scheduled for February 22, 2022.

• Approved $44,981 for Warba-Feeley-Sago Fire Department (4-0)
• Approved $24,950 and $1,637 for Balsam Township Volunteer Fire Department (4-0)
• Approved $40,000 from ARP Lost Revenue for Court Process Review (4-0)
• Consensus to remove several ARP requests (e.g., Laganki Farm, Community Projects, Mobile Command Center)
• Consensus to amend Message Boards request from $20,000 to $5,000
• Consensus to amend Power DMS Software request from $215,362.83 to $21,532.83
• Consensus to merge Commercial Building Roof Replacement and Door Repairs into $10,000 request
• Scheduled Special Session on ARP funding for February 22, 2022

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority held its regular session on January 11, 2022, and elected officers for the year. Commissioner Terry Snyder was elected Chair and Commissioner Leo Trunt was elected Vice-Chair, both by unanimous votes. The meeting also included an informational project update with no action taken.

• Elected Terry Snyder as Chair for 2022 (4-0)
• Elected Leo Trunt as Vice-Chair for 2022 (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board held its organizational meeting, electing Terry Snyder as Chair and Leo Trunt as Vice-Chair for 2022. The board approved the 2022 minimum salaries for elected officials, awarded legal publication bids, and made appointments to various committees. Several items, including a labor contract and property repurchases, were recommended for the consent agenda at the next meeting.

• Elected Terry Snyder as County Board Chair for 2022 (4-0)
• Elected Leo Trunt as County Board Vice-Chair for 2022 (4-0)
• Approved 2022 minimum salaries: County Attorney $94,539.49, Auditor/Treasurer $92,370.52, Recorder $68,824.40, Sheriff $92,370.52 (4-0)
• Awarded 2022 legal publication bids to Scenic Range News and Grand Rapids Herald Review (3-0)
• Approved 2022 delegation of electronic funds transfers to Auditor/Treasurer (4-0)
• Approved appointments to county committees/commissions/boards (4-0)
• Reappointed Barbara Sanderson to HRA through 2026 (4-0)
• Recommended 2022-2024 ICCEA labor contract for consent agenda