Meeker County public meetings in 2021

Dassel Township Board

This is a procedural notice, not a decision-making meeting. Dassel Township Clerk Karin Colberg announces that the filing period for local elections opens on December 28, 2021, and closes on January 11, 2022. Residents may file to run for one supervisor position (3-year term) and one clerk position (2-year term) at the Township Clerk's office.

• Filing period opens December 28, 2021, and closes January 11, 2022, at 5:00 p.m.
• One supervisor position for a 3-year term is open for filing
• One clerk position for a 2-year term is open for filing
• Candidate withdrawal deadline is January 13, 2022, at 5:00 p.m.
• Filing location is the Township Clerk's office at 69603 233rd Street, Dassel, MN

Board of Adjustments

The Meeker County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to consider an area variance application for property at 65631 216th St, Darwin. The request involves constructing a porch that would deviate from required setbacks and impervious coverage limits.

• Approval of November 23, 2021 meeting minutes
• Area Variance for 65631 216th St: porch construction variance regarding 100’ lake setback and 25% maximum impervious coverage

Board of Adjustments

The Meeker County Board of Adjustment held a public hearing and voted on two variance requests for a property at 65631 216th St, Darwin. The board approved a variance to build a screened porch closer to Lake Manuella than the required setback, and also approved a variance to exceed the maximum impervious surface coverage, with one member dissenting. The applicant, Craig Caffarello, agreed to remove pavers to reduce impervious coverage.

• Approved variance of 39.7 feet from the required 57-foot averaging setback to the ordinary high water level of Lake Manuella for a screened porch
• Approved variance to allow 6,190 square feet (36.2%) of impervious surface coverage, exceeding the 25% maximum (4,272 sq ft) by 1,918 sq ft
• Applicant agreed to remove 322 square feet of pavers to reduce impervious coverage
• Property is in R-1 Suburban Residential and Shoreland Districts in Ellsworth Township
• Vote on impervious variance was 2-1, with Hempel dissenting

Collinwood Township Board

The board reviewed the November financial report and approved bills totaling $7,112.58. The meeting also addressed upcoming elections for Supervisor and Clerk positions.

• Approval of bills totaling $7,112.58 (checks 2668 - 2675)
• Upcoming elections for Supervisor and Clerk positions
• Review of driveway markers on 746th Ave in the road right-of-way
• Completion of PERA and MATIT application and audit reports

Ellsworth Township Board

The board reviewed the treasurer's report and discussed various township maintenance items. Members approved several donations and addressed upcoming snow plowing agreements.

• $1,500 donation to Meeker County Trails from ARPA funds (pending guideline verification)
• $200 donation to Toys for Tots in memory of Roger Werner
• $200 donation to Meeker County Food Shelf
• Discussion of snow plowing rate increase from $135 to $165 per hour with a $300 minimum
• Approval of bills including $4,691.90 to Tru-North Steel and $3,832.55 for payroll

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission approved a rezone and preliminary plat for the Swan Lake Bluffs development, a two-lot subdivision on Big Swan Lake in Dassel Township. The commission also approved a final plat for Lindbloom Acres and adopted two ordinance amendments regarding shipping containers and solar project setbacks. All votes were unanimous.

• Rezone of 42 acres (Parcels 07-0032000 and 07-0036000) from A-1 Agricultural Preservation to R-1 Suburban Residential
• Preliminary plat approval for two-lot Swan Lake Bluffs (Lot 1: 18 acres, Lot 2: 23.9 acres)
• Final plat approval for Lindbloom Acres
• Ordinance amendment allowing up to two shipping containers under 9'6" and 380 sq ft on A-1 properties with setbacks
• Ordinance amendment requiring signed waivers for solar projects over 100 kW within 750 feet of non-owner residences or 1000 feet of municipalities

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a rezoning and preliminary plat application from Heutmaker Development Co, LLC for land at Big Swan Lake in Dassel Township. The commission will also review meeting minutes, a final plat for Lindbloom Acres, and proposed 2021 ordinance amendments.

• Rezone from A-1 Agricultural Preservation to R-1 Suburban Residential at Big Swan Lake, Dassel Township
• Two-lot preliminary plat for Swan Lake Bluffs
• Final plat for Lindbloom Acres
• Public hearing on 2021 proposed ordinance amendments

Dassel Township Board

The Dassel Township Board met on December 13, 2021, and approved routine minutes, treasurer's report, and bills totaling $16,281.16. They also approved a $102,222.17 road maintenance bill for grading, gravel, and mowing. The meeting was continued on December 23 to seek legal advice on the 250th road condition, and the board voted to have Kennedy & Graven review the Otta Seal contract for the 692nd/250th project.

• Approved bills totaling $16,281.16, including payments to Couri & Ruppe ($550) and township officials.
• Approved $102,222.17 road maintenance bill for grading, class 5 gravel, and mowing.
• Discussed survey on 280th with Thor and Wayne Lund.
• Letter sent to homeowner about boulders in right of way on 743rd, removal requested by Dec 15.
• Approved Tom Kvistad road as complying with county specs; hired Kennedy & Graven to review Otta Seal contract for 692nd/250th.

Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors

The Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors will meet to discuss financial reports and personnel matters. The board is reviewing a cost share for John Barka and conducting annual wage reviews.

• 2019 Local Capacity Grant Final Financial report
• Cost share for John Barka FY21-05
• Annual Wage Reviews
• Additional Pay Period for December 19-31, 2021
• Aquatic Invasive Species Position

The Meeker County Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved annual wage increases for staff effective January 1, 2022, and added a pay period for December 19-31, 2021. The board also approved the treasurer's report, a cost-share payment, and several administrative items, but declined to add an aquatic invasive species position at this time.

• Approved annual wage increases effective Jan 1, 2022 (all in favor)
• Added pay period Dec 19-31, 2021 (all in favor)
• Approved treasurer's report with bills payable of $65,498.95 (all in favor)
• Approved $1,400 cost-share payment for Jon Barka cover crop contract (4-0, Barka abstained)
• Authorized e-signing of Walk in Access Agreement (all in favor)
• Approved staff attendance at District 4 Ag Inspector Meeting (all in favor)
• Approved final financial for 2019 Local Capacity Grant (all in favor)
• Declined to add aquatic invasive species position at this time

Board of Adjustments

The Meeker County Board of Adjustment held a public hearing and voted on two variance applications. The board approved a variance for a second-story addition and impervious coverage at a Lake Francis property, and approved variances for a septic system at a Lake Manuella property. Both applications were approved unanimously.

• Approved variance for John & Georgina Davis to build a second level at 74286 323rd St, South Haven, allowing a 43-foot setback from OHWL (required 55-foot averaging) and impervious coverage of 2938 sq ft (250 sq ft over the 2688 sq ft max).
• Approved variance for Brian & Dawn Renner to install a septic drain field 15 feet from a dwelling (required 20 feet) and septic tanks/drain field 35 feet from a drainage ditch (required 50 feet) at 21121 CSAH 9, Darwin.
• Both properties are in R-1 Suburban Residential and Shoreland Districts, with lots formed before the 1972 shoreland ordinance.

Board of Adjustments

The Meeker County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to consider two variance applications and other business. The board will vote on the October 26, 2021 meeting minutes and discuss general matters. The agenda is proposed and subject to change.

• Approve October 26, 2021 meeting minutes
• Davis variance: second-level addition, 75-ft OHWL setback, 25% impervious coverage limit, 74286 323rd St, South Haven, Kingston Twp
• Renner variance: drain field, 20-ft dwelling setback, 50-ft drainage ditch setback, 21121 CSAH 9, Darwin, Ellsworth Twp

Ellsworth Township Board

The board reviewed treasurer reports, discussed road maintenance issues including grading on 33rd St, and addressed DNR requirements for a culvert on 640th. Members also discussed upcoming bonding in March or April and potential levy impacts from a new Hutchinson Fire Dept tanker truck.

• Approved payment of $8,500.00 to Wimmer Tree Trimming
• Approved 10% cost share for the $762,000 SPRA grant
• Motion to approve treasurer's report including $4,175.00 for Bargen and $457.00 for Drone View consulting
• Discussion of DNR requirement to remove screen from 640th culvert within 30 days
• Report of hall rental on December 3rd

Collinwood Township Board

The Collinwood Township Board met on November 15, 2021, approving the October minutes and financial report, and paying bills totaling $54,363.46. They discussed ongoing road maintenance, including a contract with Fahrner Asphalt that will carry into 2022, and a resident's past-due dust control payment. The board also noted new items like a stop sign on 720th St. and plans for broadband at the town hall.

• Approved bills totaling $54,363.46 (checks 2659-26667)
• Fahrner Asphalt contract to honor price for incomplete road work in 2022
• Stop sign added to 720th St.
• Culvert on 200th St. sunk slightly; supervisors to monitor
• Resident past due on dust control payment; tabled to year-end

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission approved a request to rezone 18.75 acres in Union Grove Township from Agricultural Preservation to Rural Residential. The decision includes the approval of a one-lot preliminary plat known as Lindbloom Acres. The commission also heard a proposal from Steve and Michelle Garaghty regarding a future rezoning and platting into three lots.

• Approved rezoning of 18.75 acres at 39416 547th Ave from A-1 to R-2
• Approved one-lot preliminary plat for Lindbloom Acres
• Discussion of proposed three-lot rezoning and platting by Steve and Michelle Garaghty

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider rezoning land from A-1 Agricultural Preservation District to R-2 Rural Residential District. The meeting also includes a preliminary plat application for the same property and approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Rezoning request for 39416 547th Ave, Paynesville from A-1 to R-2
• One-lot plat application for Lindbloom Acres
• Approval of October 12, 2021 meeting minutes
• Potential rezone and plat for Steven Garaghty

Dassel Township Board

The Dassel Township Board held its monthly meeting, approving the minutes, treasurer's report, and most bills. They discussed road maintenance, including surveying a right of way and a hold on chip seal payment, and noted receipt of $81,849.47 in American Rescue Plan Act funds. The board also designated the township polling place for the next year.

• Approved bills totaling $1,706.00, excluding a $1,736.18 bill from Hakanson Anderson
• Decided to contact Northstar Surveyors to survey right of way on 280th
• Held decision on chip seal road payment pending attorney investigation
• Will send letter to homeowner about boulders in right of way on 743rd
• Designated polling place at 901 1st Street, Dassel, MN for next calendar year

Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors

The Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors will meet to discuss administrative reports and personnel matters. The board is scheduled to review the 2020 audit and specific cost share requests. Public entry to the building requires an appointment due to Covid restrictions.

• 2020 Audit
• Cost share requests for Mike Miller LC21-01, Rodney Brekke NF-FY-20-6, Tim Rice, and Jon Barka
• Aquatic Invasive Species Position
• Health Insurance
• Performance Reviews

The Meeker County Soil & Water Conservation District board approved multiple cost-share encumbrances, a membership, and conference attendance, and tabled discussion on adding an Aquatic Invasive Species position until December. All votes were unanimous except one abstention.

• Approved agenda and prior minutes (3-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Report with $25,413.44 in bills payable (3-0)
• Approved $25 MN Soil Health Coalition membership (3-0)
• Approved staff and supervisor attendance at MASWCD conference (3-0)
• Tabled Aquatic Invasive Species position discussion to December
• Approved $13,912.48 cost-share for Michael Miller (LC21-01) (3-0)
• Approved $11,699.04 cost-share for Tim Rice (LC21-02) (3-0)
• Approved $1,400 cover crop contract for Jon Barka (FY21-05) (2-0, Barka abstained)

Board of Adjustments

The Meeker County Board of Adjustment will consider a variance application from LuVerne Erickson regarding property at 65805 216th St, Darwin. The request involves setbacks from the road right of way and the ordinary high water level of Lake Manuella, as well as impervious coverage limits.

• Approval of September 28, 2021 meeting minutes
• Area Variance for new dwelling at 65805 216th St, Darwin
• Variance to 35’ road right of way setback
• Variance to 100’ OHWL setback for RD Lake
• Variance to 25% maximum impervious coverage in R-1 and Shoreland Districts

Board of Adjustments

The Meeker County Board of Adjustment will hold an on-site public hearing on October 26, 2021. The primary item is a request for an Area Variance to construct a new dwelling at 65805 216th St in Darwin, MN. The application seeks exceptions to setback and impervious coverage requirements in the R-1 Suburban Residential and Shoreland Districts.

• Area Variance application for LuVerne Erickson at 65805 216th St, Darwin, MN
• Request to vary the required 35-foot setback to the road right of way
• Request to vary the required 100-foot setback to the Ordinary High Water Line (OHWL) of Lake Manuella
• Request to vary the maximum allowed 25% impervious coverage limit
• Approval of September 28, 2021 meeting minutes

Ellsworth Township Board

The board reviewed the treasurer's report, including payments for fire department equipment and road repairs. Discussions included road maintenance strategies with the County Engineer and potential legal costs regarding VRBO enforcement.

• Payments to Hutchinson Fire Dept for $3,670.00 and $7,440.00 for tanker replacement
• Approval for tree trimming services to continue up to an additional $4,000.00
• Discussion of Meeker Co Hwy Dept bills totaling $664.73 for signs and tree removal
• Resolution to maintain the township hall as the 2022 polling place

Collinwood Township Board

The board reviewed the September financial report and approved $15,904.02 in bills. Discussions included the use of $59,257.53 in ARPA funds for potential projects like broadband access.

• $59,257.53 in ARPA funds placed into money market account
• Approval of bills totaling $15,904.02
• Assessment search at 21114 746th Ave
• Public hearing for Ditch 15 scheduled for Nov. 1st
• 2020 Census report shows population of 1,195 and 529 housing units

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission held a public hearing and voted unanimously to approve three conditional/interim use permits for shoreland alterations and a watercraft storage business, plus a final plat. All votes were 7-0.

• Approved CUP for Kamphenkel to move 76 cubic yards of rock/fill for boulder wall and rip-rap at 24336 726th Ave, Dassel (max 88 cu yd)
• Approved CUP for Petty to move 140 cubic yards for rip-rap and frost heave work at 32926 738th Ave, South Haven (max 162 cu yd)
• Approved 20-year interim use permit for Grangroth/Cameron to store watercraft on 8.08 acres at Big Swan Lake, Dassel Township
• Approved final plat for Johnson Oasis

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on October 12, 2021, to consider conditional use permits for shoreland alterations and an interim use permit for a home occupancy. The agenda also includes approval of previous meeting minutes and other business, including a final plat discussion.

• Conditional use permit for Chad Kamphenkel to move over 10 cubic yards in Shoreland Impact Zone and over 50 cubic yards in Shoreland District at Westridge on Long Lake, Dassel Township
• Conditional use permit for Robert & Ashley Petty for similar shoreland alterations at Ranta Shores, Lake Francis, Kingston Township
• Interim use permit for Joshua Grangroth and Michael & Shirley Cameron for watercraft storage at Big Swan Acres, Big Swan Lake, Dassel Township
• Final plat discussion for Paul Johnson – Johnson Oasis
• Approval of September 14, 2021 meeting minutes

Dassel Township Board

The Dassel Township Board met on October 11, 2021, and approved the previous meeting's minutes (with a date correction), the treasurer's report, and payment of bills totaling $1,220. They also approved a preliminary plat for Swan Lake Bluffs and discussed road maintenance issues, including a dirt pile near 748th off 240th, a rip/rap project on 240th, and a chip seal concern. The board will investigate right-of-way boulders on 280th and 743rd and consult with the township attorney about the chip seal.

• Approved bills: Couri & Ruppe $220.00, Brice Nelson $1,000.00
• Approved preliminary plat for Swan Lake Bluffs
• Motion to rip/rap area on 240th by the swamp and fill hole on north side
• Will check dirt pile on 748th off 240th and request removal
• Will inspect boulders on 280th and 743rd for right-of-way and safety

Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will review field office reports, COVID-19 preparedness plan modifications, and various financial items. The meeting includes a resolution to adopt the Sauk River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan and several cost share items.

• Resolution to Adopt and Implement the Sauk River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan
• FY22 Buffer Implementation Supplemental Grant approval
• Cost Share: Schiefelbein Farms FY21-01
• Cost Share: Jerrod Nohner FY21-03
• Cost Share: Loren Roberg NF-FY20-08

The Meeker County Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved a resolution to adopt and implement the Sauk River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan, as required by state statute. The board also approved several cost-share payments and contract encumbrances for cover crop and wetland restoration projects, along with administrative items like bank account changes and a fuel card application.

• Adopted Sauk River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan (unanimous)
• Approved increased drill cost from $13,781 to $16,025 (unanimous)
• Approved $1,400 payment to Schiefelbein Farms for cover crop contract FY21-01 (4-0, Schiefelbein abstained)
• Approved $605 payment to Jerrod Nohner for cover crop contract FY21-03 (unanimous)
• Approved $15,000 payment to Loren Roberg for cover crop contract NF-FY20-8 (unanimous)
• Encumbered $1,400 for Dylan Terning cover crop contract FY21-04 (unanimous)
• Approved $7,359.66 payment to Richard Burkstrand for wetland restoration contract NF-FY20-7 (unanimous)
• Approved closing Wells Fargo accounts and opening accounts at Home State Bank (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments

The Meeker County Board of Adjustment will consider a variance application from Lisa Przybilla regarding property at 32598 742nd Ave. The request involves setbacks for a house, a deck, and a holding tank near Lake Francis.

• Approval of August 24, 2021 meeting minutes
• Area Variance for house construction regarding 75’ setback to OHWL of a GD Lake
• Variance for 35’ setback to road right of way
• Variance for deck construction regarding 75’ setback to OHWL of a GD Lake
• Variance for holding tank installation regarding drain field requirements

Board of Adjustments

The Meeker County Board of Adjustment approved three variances for a new dwelling on Lots 12 and 13 of Melody Lane in Kingston Township: a 9.6-foot setback variance from 738th Ave, an 8.4-foot setback variance from Lake Francis, and a use variance to install a holding tank instead of a septic system. The board voted 3-0 to approve all requested variances after a public hearing.

• Area variance of 9.6 feet to road setback (25.4 feet instead of 35 feet) for dwelling construction
• Area variance of 8.4 feet to Lake Francis setback (42.6 feet with porch, 48.3 feet without, vs. 75 feet standard)
• Use variance for holding tank, normally prohibited for new structures under Meeker Ordinance Article 22 Sec. 22.13.E.7.f
• Property is 15,925 sq ft (.36 acre) R-1 Suburban Residential District, created 1959, pre-dating shoreland ordinance
• Board viewed property on-site before hearing

Collinwood Township Board

The Collinwood Township Board met on September 20, 2021, to handle routine business, including approving minutes and financial reports, and paying bills totaling $11,871.56. They discussed updates on ARPA funds, dust control billing, recycling, and road maintenance issues, including a hole on 205th St. and tree trimming. The board also addressed private road requests, clarifying that costs for gates and grading are the homeowner's responsibility.

• ARPA update: waiting on paperwork with tax ID, due October 4, 2021
• Dust control: one resident past due, clerk to resend bill
• Road maintenance: hole by culvert on 205th St. needs filling, possibly rebuilt
• Private gate request: resident informed costs are homeowner's expense
• Bills paid: checks 2649-2652, total $11,871.56

Ellsworth Township Board

The Ellsworth Township Board approved a liquor license for Bonfire, set new rules for short-term rentals (VRBOs), and discussed road and culvert projects. The board also approved a culvert project on 198th St and tabled a bonding decision.

• Approved on/off-sale liquor license for Bonfire
• New VRBO rules: 32-day minimum, septic compliance, township approval before listing
• Approved culvert work on 198th St for $3,000 pipe and $6,500 labor
• Discussed dust issues on 640th Ave; no grant funding received
• Tabled bonding decision until next meeting

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission held a public hearing and approved several land-use applications, including an after-the-fact interim use permit for a home occupation, a conditional use permit for a building eligibility, a rezone and preliminary plat, and two final plats. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved 20-year interim use permit for turbo manufacturing and diesel repair at 26416 CSAH 14, Darwin
• Approved conditional use permit for building eligibility on 6.10 acres in Dassel Township
• Approved rezone of 1.51 acres from A-1 to R-1 for Johnson Oasis plat near Lake Manuella
• Approved preliminary plat for one-lot Johnson Oasis
• Approved final plats for Lake Francis Views (7 lots) and Birdwing First Addition (3 lots)

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on September 14, 2021, at 5:00 PM to consider four permit applications: an after-the-fact interim use permit, a conditional use permit, a rezone, and a preliminary plat. The agenda also includes approval of prior minutes and other business, including final plats for two subdivisions. All items are under consideration; no decisions are noted in the agenda.

• After-the-fact interim use permit for level two home occupancy in accessory building (Wold, Darwin Twp.)
• Conditional use permit for building eligibility on 1-acre tillable parcel with 5-acre easement (Anderson, Dassel Twp.)
• Rezone from A-1 Agricultural Preservation to R-1 Suburban Residential (Johnson, Ellsworth Twp.)
• Preliminary plat of 1 lot in R-1 district, Johnson Oasis (Johnson, Ellsworth Twp.)
• Final plats for Al Ranta – Lake Francis Views and Richard Carlson – Birdwing First Addition

Dassel Township Board

The Dassel Township Board met on September 13, 2021, approving the previous meeting's minutes, the treasurer's report, and $7,985 in bills. They discussed road maintenance, a chip seal project in poor condition, and a resident complaint about boulders at a cul-de-sac on 280th Street.

• Approved bills totaling $7,985, including $6,390 to Michael Murphy
• Discussed road grading, mowing, and shouldering; rip/rap estimate requested for 73560 240th Street
• Chip seal work on a road is in poor condition; engineer contacting Allied Blacktop for correction
• Residents of 280th Street dead end unhappy with boulders hindering turnarounds and snow plowing; awaiting attorney advice

Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will review reports regarding the Farm Bill, county budgets, and training requests. The meeting includes discussions on COVID-19 preparedness plan modifications and grant approvals for FY22 and FY23 state cost share and conservation delivery.

• FY22 & FY23 State Cost Share and Conservation Delivery Grants approval
• Cost Share: Barka- LC19-05
• COVID-19 Preparedness Plan Modifications

The board approved the FY22 & FY23 State Cost Share and Conservation Delivery Grants, and approved multiple FY2021 state cost share contracts, including encumberments for Schiefelbein Farms, Kyle Schroeder, and Jerrod Nohner. It also approved trading in the old drill for a new 8 ft. Truax Drill at about $13,781, and approved sending staff to the Area 2 meeting. The board tabled discussion on the bank account until the October meeting.

• Approved FY22 & FY23 State Cost Share and Conservation Delivery Grants.
• Approved encumberment of $1,400 for a cover crop contract for Schiefelbein Farms (FY21-01).
• Approved encumberment of $5,306.75 for a lined waterway contract for Kyle Schroeder (FY21-02).
• Approved encumberment of $605 for a cover crop contract for Jerrod Nohner (FY21-03).
• Approved trading in the old drill and purchasing a new 8 ft. Truax Drill at approximately $13,781.
• Approved sending Anderson, Clark, Haffley, and Behnke to the Area 2 meeting on September 14.
• Approved the Treasurer's Report as presented, subject to audit, including bills payable of $33,978.70.
• Tabled discussion on the bank account until the October Board Meeting.

Dassel Township Board

The Dassel Township Board held an emergency meeting to finalize the mutual termination of its road maintenance agreement with Michael Murphy Construction as of August 31, 2021, and to approve the final invoice. The board also hired McCarthy Gravel to take over road maintenance starting September 7, 2021.

• Approved mutual termination agreement with Michael Murphy Construction effective August 31, 2021
• Approved final invoice of $6,390.00 to Michael Murphy Construction for work through August 31, 2021
• Hired McCarthy Gravel for road maintenance, agreement effective September 7, 2021

Board of Adjustments

The Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on May 25, 2021, to review requests for area variances. These applications involve garage construction setbacks and the installation of a holding tank.

• Garage setback variance for Justin & Leia Klinghagen at 28705 660th Ave
• Garage setback and shoreline setback variance for Richard & Marilyn Howk at Arvilla Shores
• Holding tank installation variance for Jon and Craig Pettit at Big Swan Lake
• Approval of April 20, 2021 meeting minutes

Ellsworth Township Board

The Board approved the sale of township land on Co Rd 33 to James Scheman for $6,500. Members also passed an ordinance requiring new or existing VRBO owners to submit plans to the board regarding septic, noise, and rental capacity.

• Sale of Co Rd 33 land to James Scheman for $6,500 with buyer covering legal fees
• New VRBO ordinance effective August 19, 2021, regarding septic and noise compliance
• Approval of bills including $5,745.60 to McNamara and $540.91 to Meeker Co Highway
• Discussion of shared road project costs totaling approximately $137,000
• Review of chip sealing bids for 640th ($41,000) and 654th ($52,500)

Collinwood Township Board

The board reviewed the July meeting minutes and discussed road maintenance plans for 213th St. and 205th St. The meeting also addressed recycling issues, ARPA funding usage, and a potential roadway relocation request.

• Approval of bills totaling $10,382.04
• Planned crack filling and patch work for 213th St. by Lake Washington
• Discussion regarding a potential land purchaser wanting to move a roadway
• Discussion of increased rates for township lawyer Couri & Ruppe P.L.L.P.
• Approval of clerk's purchase of a briefcase for transporting equipment

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission held a meeting on August 10, 2021, to consider and vote on several conditional use, interim use, rezone, and preliminary plat applications. All applications were approved unanimously, including after-the-fact permits for shoreland alterations, a rezone and plat for a new subdivision, an interim use permit for a temporary second dwelling, and a conditional use permit for a private airplane landing strip.

• Approved after-the-fact CUP for Scott & Wanda Mitchell to move 40 cubic yards of gravel and 20 cubic yards of black dirt in shoreland impact zone at 74390 309th St, South Haven (Mud Lake).
• Approved rezone of 13.13 acres from A-1 to R-1 for Richard & Elisabeth Carlson at Star Lake, Greenleaf Township, and preliminary plat of Birdwing First Addition (2 lots).
• Approved CUP for Craig & Colleen Stedham to install 85' boulder retaining wall, 89' rip rap, and steps at Big Swan Lake, Dassel Township, moving up to 138 cubic yards.
• Approved interim use permit for Trisha Hedburg to place a temporary second dwelling for 20 years on A-1 property in Forest Prairie Township.
• Approved after-the-fact CUP for Jesse & Lori Trebil for a 3000'x75' airplane landing strip, moving 30,000+ cubic yards, with conditions to avoid livestock operations.

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on August 10, 2021, to consider six specific land use applications. The agenda includes continued hearings for three applicants and new applications for shoreland alterations, a temporary dwelling, and an airstrip. The meeting concludes with a review of possible lot plats and general discussion.

• After-the-fact Conditional Use permit for shoreland alterations at 74390 309th St, South Haven
• Rezoning request from A-1 Agricultural Preservation to R-1 Suburban Residential in Greenleaf Township
• Preliminary Plat of two lots in the R-1 Suburban Residential District (Birdwing First Addition)
• Conditional Use permit for shoreland alterations at 27381 742nd Ave, Dassel
• After-the-fact Conditional Use permit to construct a 3000’x75’ airplane landing strip in Harvey Township

Dassel Township Board

The board approved the previous meeting minutes and the monthly Treasurer's report. Discussions included requirements for a culvert lowering, land sales on 734th Avenue, and township road maintenance.

• Approval of bills totaling $53,761.73
• Payment to Crow River Construction for $35,874.48
• Requirement for Soil & Water documentation regarding a culvert lowering
• Notice of proposed lot sales on 734th Avenue near Big Swan Lake
• Discussion regarding the township road maintenance contract

Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors

The Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors will meet to review reports and training requests. The board is scheduled to discuss modifications to the COVID-19 Preparedness Plan and a subcontract agreement with Wright for the North Fork Crow River WBIF.

• COVID-19 Preparedness Plan Modifications
• North Fork Crow River WBIF Subcontract Agreement with Wright
• CAWT Training and Manure Day (August 10)
• Manure Compost Training (August 11)
• BWSR Academy (October 26-28)

The board approved a subcontract with Wright SWCD for the North Fork Crow River WBIF grant, added Juneteenth as a paid holiday, allowed haying on a leased food plot, and re-encumbered unspent cost-share funds to another contract. All votes were unanimous. The drill discussion was tabled to September.

• Approved North Fork Crow River WBIF subcontract with Wright SWCD (unanimous)
• Approved adding Juneteenth to paid holidays (unanimous)
• Approved haying food plot on leased Hedtke cropland (unanimous)
• Re-encumbered $318.98 from Jon Barka contract LC19-05 to Cory Meierhofer contract LC20-04 (unanimous)
• Approved training requests for Steinhaus, Clark, and Norman (unanimous)
• Tabled drill discussion to September meeting

Collinwood Township Board

The Collinwood Township Board met to approve minutes and financial reports, discuss road maintenance with the county highway engineer, and address ongoing issues like recycling contamination and ARPA paperwork. The board approved hiring a contractor for a culvert repair and paid bills totaling $15,649.62.

• Approved hiring Mike Bickman from MSB Excavating & Tiling LLC to repair a washed-out culvert on 173rd St
• Discussed dead-end road maintenance procedures with Meeker County Highway Engineer Phil Schmalz
• Warned that recycling abuse could lead to removal of the recycling program
• Treasurer Laura Holm working on ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) forms
• Paid bills via checks 2640-2644 totaling $15,649.62

Ellsworth Township Board

The Ellsworth Township Board met on July 15, 2021, to approve minutes, pay bills, and discuss various township matters. Key items included a recurring culvert blockage on 198th Street, road maintenance projects, and a complaint about trailers parked on Lake Manuella Road. The board also approved paying the Minnesota Association of Townships for help with an American Rescue Act application.

• Approved paying bills totaling $769.95 (Jack's $65, printing $60, payroll taxes $644.95)
• Approved paying MAT $30/hour plus $15 per 15 minutes for American Rescue Act application help
• Discussed plugged culvert on 198th Street, will add brush guard and contact DNR
• Road projects: grind/resurface on 216th and 208th, crack fill/chip seal on 654th and 640th
• Motion to have Radtke spray roads on 673rd, 670th Ave, 216th Ave, and parking lot

Planning & Zoning

The Commission approved an after-the-fact conditional use permit for shoreline work in Greenleaf Township. Two other applications, involving a shoreland alteration in Kingston Township and a rezoning request near Star Lake, were tabled for future consideration.

• Approved after-the-fact CUP for 20087 624th Ave to install rip rap, boulder walls, and pavers
• Continued public hearing for 74390 30th St due to pending DNR hydrologist site visit
• Tabled rezoning application for 13.13 acres from A-1 to R-1 near Star Lake
• Approved June 8, 2021 meeting minutes (6-0 vote)

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on July 13, 2021, to consider several permit applications, including after-the-fact conditional use permits for shoreland alterations, a rezone request, and a preliminary plat. The meeting will also include approval of previous minutes and other business.

• After-the-fact conditional use permit for Scott & Wanda Mitchell to move material in Shoreland Impact Zone and Shoreland District at 74390 309th St, South Haven (Kingston Township)
• After-the-fact conditional use permit for Casey & Barbara Rouse to move material in Shoreland Impact Zone and Shoreland District at 20087 624th Ave, Litchfield (Greenleaf Township)
• Rezone request by Richard & Elisabeth Carlson from A-1 Agricultural Preservation to R-1 Suburban Residential at Star Lake (Greenleaf Township)
• Preliminary plat application by Richard & Elisabeth Carlson for two-lot plat of Birdwing First Addition
• Possible plat discussion for Paul Johnson

Dassel Township Board

The board approved $46,101.41 in bills and discussed road maintenance, including culvert and approach approvals. Members reviewed two chip seal quotes but deferred a final decision to further evaluate the companies.

• Approved bills totaling $46,101.41, including $29,000 to Perennial Bank and $11,460 to Michael Murphy Construction
• Reviewed chip seal quotes from Allied Blacktop Company ($124,992.65) and Asphalt Surface Technologies ($149,295.40)
• Approved a property approach for Zachery Anderson on 692nd
• Approved lowering a culvert by 6 inches pending agreement from Soil & Water
• Discussed removal of boulders blocking snow removal on the west end of 280th

Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors

The Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors will meet to discuss operational agreements and personnel policies. The board is reviewing several partnership agreements and cost share requests for specific individuals.

• Hedtke Land Lease
• JD 17 Operation & Maintenance Agreement
• Pheasants Forever Partnership Agreement and Annual Contribution
• DNR Well Observation Agreement
• Cost share requests for Fred Behnke, Jared Johnson, and Robert Kipf

The Meeker County Soil and Water Conservation District Board approved the treasurer's report with $41,058.48 in bills payable, and approved several contracts and agreements, including a short-term land lease with Clifford Hedtke, the JD 17 Operation & Maintenance Agreement, a Pheasants Forever partnership with a $4,000 contribution, and a DNR Well Observation Agreement. The board also set the supervisor per diem at $125 effective August 1, 2021, and approved cost-share payments to Fred Behnke, Jared Johnson, and Robert Kipf. Discussions on the Juneteenth holiday and the Aquatic Invasive Species Position were tabled.

• Approved treasurer's report with bills payable of $41,058.48
• Approved purchase of monitor and docking station for remote access up to $400
• Approved short-term lease with Clifford Hedtke for 14.6 acres of cropland for 2021
• Approved JD 17 Operation & Maintenance Agreement
• Approved Pheasants Forever Local Partnership Agreement and $4,000 contribution
• Approved DNR Well Observation Agreement, authorizing Ann Steinhaus to sign
• Set supervisor per diem at $125, effective August 1, 2021
• Approved cost-share payments: $10,060.25 to Fred Behnke, $44,267.10 to Jared Johnson, $3,757.20 to Robert Kipf

Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors

The Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors will meet to discuss operational agreements and personnel policies. The board is reviewing several partnership agreements and specific cost share requests for local residents.

• Hedtke Land Lease
• Pheasants Forever Partnership Agreement and Annual Contribution
• DNR Well Observation Agreement
• Cost share requests for Fred Behnke, Jared Johnson, and Robert Kipf
• COVID-19 Preparedness Plan Modifications

Collinwood Township Board

The Collinwood Township Board met on June 21, 2021, to address old and new business. They discussed recycling bin misuse, spring road inspection findings, dust control issues, and American Rescue Plan Act funds. The board approved the minutes, financial report, and bills totaling $45,231.91.

• Recycling bins: West Central Sanitation will no longer pick up items off the ground; sheriff notified to monitor; options include moving bins to Dassel compost with gates and hours.
• Spring road inspection: gravel needed on 750th St; beaver blocking culvert on 745th Ave; tar crumbling on 728th Ave; hole on 178th St; culvert plugged on 183rd St; 190th road paving to be redone under warranty.
• Dust control: remaining areas to be completed; board declined reimbursement for resident who sold home.
• American Rescue Plan Act Funds: Treasurer to attend webinar; 50% expected in first year, 50% in second year.
• Bills paid: checks 2632-2639 totaling $45,231.91.

Ellsworth Township Board

The Ellsworth Township Board met to approve minutes, pay bills, and discuss road maintenance, gravel pit issues, and a rezoning request. They approved funding for road repairs and tree trimming, a rezoning application, and truck hauling signs, while also discussing VRBO rules and bonding for future projects.

• Approved paying bills including salaries $4,482.35 and McNamara $21,134.40
• Approved finishing road dead ends with 300-400 cubic yards of gravel for $2,000
• Approved rezoning property next to 21461 CSAH 9 to send to Planning & Zoning
• Approved truck hauling signs at 205th and 640th intersection
• Approved road work on 673rd, 670th, and 216th plus tree trimming and spraying totaling about $45,000

Dassel Township Board

The board approved $20,685.71 in bills and awarded a chip seal project to Allied Blacktop Company. Members discussed road maintenance, dust guarding, and a rejected state offer for railroad crossing safety updates.

• Awarded chip seal project to Allied Blacktop Company for $124,992.65
• Approved bills totaling $20,685.71, including payments to Michael Murphy Construction
• Decided not to participate in state-funded railroad crossing safety updates
• Final sign-off on rezone and replat for property on 273rd
• Review of City of Dassel annexation ordinance

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission voted 5-0 to approve a rezone of 37.36 acres from A-1 Agricultural Preservation to R-1 Suburban Residential and a preliminary plat for a seven-lot subdivision called Lake Francis Views in Kingston Township. The board also discussed a proposed solar garden setback ordinance (agreeing on 1,000 feet from residents and cities) and future regulation of short-term rentals (VRBOs).

• Rezone of 37.36 acres near Lake Francis (Section 11, T120, R29) from A-1 to R-1 for a 7-lot plat
• Approval of 7-lot preliminary plat 'Lake Francis Views' with $500,000 letter of credit for public road
• Discussion of solar garden setback ordinance—board agreed on 1,000 feet from residents and city limits
• Discussion of future VRBO ordinance pending assessor classification
• Proposal to extend CUP/IUP expiration from 12 to 18 or 24 months

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a rezoning and preliminary plat application for property in Kingston Township near Lake Francis. The applicants seek to rezone land from A-1 Agricultural Preservation to R-1 Suburban Residential and approve a seven-lot plat. The commission will also discuss other business, including a possible two-lot plat and ordinance amendments.

• Rezone from A-1 Agricultural Preservation to R-1 Suburban Residential, Lake Francis, Kingston Township
• Preliminary plat for 7 lots (Lake Francis Views)
• Possible two-lot preliminary plat for Tom Smith
• Discussion of ordinance amendments

Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will meet to review financial reports and administrative updates. Discussion items include county funding, bank authority, and COVID-19 preparedness plan modifications.

• Updated County Funding P & L report
• Conversion of CD # 29594
• Additional Bank Signing/Access Authority
• QuickBooks Authorization
• COVID-19 Preparedness Plan Modifications

Board of Adjustments

The Meeker County Board of Adjustment met on May 25, 2021, to consider three variance applications. All three were approved unanimously. The board approved variances for a garage in Litchfield, a garage in Dassel, and a septic holding tank in Kingston Township.

• Approved variance for Justin & Leia Klinghagen to build a 32' x 40' garage at 28705 660th Ave, Litchfield, with setbacks reduced from 35' to 2' from road, size increased from 1,040 to 1,280 sq ft, and sidewall height from 14' to 16'.
• Approved variance for Richard & Marilyn Howk to build a 24' x 30' attached garage at 27785 CSAH 4, Dassel, with setbacks reduced from 35' to 14.3' from road and from 100' to 41.6' from the ordinary high-water level.
• Approved variance for Jon and Craig Pettit to install a septic holding tank at 73872 282nd St, Dassel, with setback from Big Swan Lake reduced from 75' to 42.1'.

Board of Adjustments

The Meeker County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on May 25, 2021, to consider three variance applications related to shoreland properties. The board will also approve the April 20, 2021 meeting minutes and discuss other business. The agenda is proposed and subject to change.

• Approve April 20, 2021 meeting minutes
• Klinghagen: area variance for garage, 35' setback to road right-of-way, R-1 Suburban Residential and Shoreland District, Red Oaks 2nd Addition, Forest City Township
• Howk: area variance for garage, 100' setback to OHWL and 35' setback to road, R-1 Suburban Residential and Shoreland District, Arvilla Shores, Dassel Township
• Pettit: variance to install holding tank, 75' SSTS setback to lake, R-1 Suburban Residential and Shoreland District, Nelson's Highview Shores, Kingston Township

Ellsworth Township Board

The board reviewed a shared road paving proposal with Dunnick and Meeker Sand & Gravel, ultimately moving to accept the bid up to 20% above $115,540. Members also discussed establishing local rules for VRBOs regarding noise and parking, and addressed concerns regarding gravel tax compliance.

• Proposal to accept road paving bid up to 20% over $115,540
• Treasurer's report approved including $27,068 for Litchfield Fire Contract
• Discussion on potential township rules for VRBO parking and noise
• Motion to replace a broken 45 mph/curve speed limit sign
• Review of bills including $12,337.50 for Meeker Co Assessor parcels

Collinwood Township Board

The Collinwood Township Board met on May 17, 2021, and approved the May minutes and financial report. They discussed road maintenance, dust control, and traffic concerns, and approved a rezone application for 16506 Hwy 15. The board also approved paying bills totaling $81,477.33.

• Approved rezone application for 16506 Hwy 15, Dassel (public hearing May 11, 2021)
• Approved bills totaling $81,477.33 (checks 2627-2631)
• Discussed road conditions on 178th and 213th St, including heat surfacing and grading
• Dust control: will contact Central Minnesota Dust Control for resident list
• Discussed traffic concerns on 200th St and County Rd 6

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on May 11, 2021, to consider several conditional use permits, a feedlot expansion, a rezoning, and an interim use permit renewal. The agenda includes a continued hearing for a 1-megawatt community solar garden, a livestock feedlot expansion, a rezoning from agricultural to commercial, and a renewal for aggregate mining. The meeting will also approve the previous meeting's minutes and discuss other business.

• Continued hearing for 1 MW community solar garden (3350 panels) at 22325 CSAH 4, Dassel, in A-1 district
• Wagner Dairy, LLC feedlot expansion from 784 to 990 animal units in Forest City Township
• Rezone from A-1 to C-1 at 16506 MN Hwy 15, Dassel (Labraaten Family Companies)
• Renewal of interim use permit for aggregate mining at 32584 645th Ave, Watkins
• Approve April 13, 2021 meeting minutes

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission held a public hearing and approved several permits: a conditional use permit for Wagner Dairy to expand its feedlot from 784 to 990 animal units, a rezone of a 9.5-acre parcel from A-1 to C-1 for a non-emergency medical transportation business, a renewal of an interim use permit for an aggregate mine, and a conditional use permit for shoreland alterations at Lake Stella. A proposed 1-megawatt community solar garden was withdrawn by the applicant due to high interconnection fees. The commission also approved the final plat of Lundin Hills.

• Approved Wagner Dairy feedlot expansion to 990 animal units with conditions (Forest City Township)
• Approved rezone of 9.5-acre parcel at 16506 MN Hwy 15 from A-1 to C-1 for medical transportation
• Approved renewal of aggregate mining permit for 13.35 acres at 32584 645th Ave, Watkins
• Approved shoreland alteration CUP at 21488 670th Ave, Darwin (Lake Stella) with tree replacement condition
• SolarClub 40's 1 MW solar garden application withdrawn due to interconnection fees

Dassel Township Board

The board approved a bid from Central MN Dust Guarding for property owners and authorized township-wide dust guarding on specific roads. Supervisors discussed upcoming road patching, culvert replacements, and potential railroad crossing safety updates.

• Approved Central MN Dust Guarding bid of $0.60/gal
• Authorized Township dust guarding for intersections, 250th, and 743rd
• Decided to delay the 735th/County Ditch 8 culvert replacement until 2022
• Approved monthly bills totaling $8,370.98 (excluding one pending invoice)
• Noted available state funds for a railroad crossing safety update due June 30, 2021

Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors

The Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors will meet to review financial reports and the 2022 County Allocation/Budget. The board will also consider cost share requests for buffers and specific projects for Brekke, Burkstrand, and Roberg.

• 2022 County Allocation/Budget
• Internal Financial Controls Policy
• Civil Rights Memo of Understanding
• Cost share requests for Brekke (1W1P20-01), Burkstrand (1W1P20-02), and Roberg (1W1P20-03)
• COVID-19 Preparedness Plan Modifications

The Meeker County Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved the 2022 County Allocation and Budget, updated billable rates, and an Internal Financial Control Policy effective June 1, 2021. They also authorized cost-share contracts for three projects, added staff member Lacey Clark to bank accounts and approved a credit card for her, and reaffirmed support for the South Fork One Watershed One Plan. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 2022 County Allocation and Budget (unanimous)
• Approved updated billable rates (unanimous)
• Approved Internal Financial Control Policy effective June 1, 2021 (unanimous)
• Authorized Lacey Clark for credit card and bank account access (unanimous)
• Reaffirmed South Fork One Watershed One Plan resolution (unanimous)
• Approved Rodney Brekke's water/sediment control basin contract, $20,169 (unanimous)
• Approved Richard Burkstrand's wetland restoration contract, $7,359.66 (unanimous)
• Approved Loren Roberg's 3-year cover crop plan contract, $15,000 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments

The Meeker County Board of Adjustment approved a variance for Justin and Michaela Kofoed to construct a deck at 65820 211th St, Darwin. The request allowed the deck to be built 38 feet from the ordinary high-water level, bypassing the required 100-foot setback.

• Approved area variance for a deck at 65820 211th St, Darwin
• Approved March 16, 2021 meeting minutes

Board of Adjustments

The Meeker County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to consider a variance application from Justin and Michaela Kofoed to build a garage closer than the required 100-foot setback to a recreational development lake. The board will also approve the previous meeting's minutes and discuss other business.

• Approve March 16, 2021 meeting minutes
• Area variance for garage at 65820 211th St, Darwin, MN, to reduce required 100' setback to Lake Manuella in R-1 Suburban Residential and Shoreland District

Collinwood Township Board

The Collinwood Township Board held its regular monthly meeting, reviewing and approving the March minutes and financial report. They heard from County Commissioner Paul Johnson about American Rescue Funds grants and county road maintenance, and discussed several road-related issues including a conditional use permit for moving material in a shoreland area, a complaint about a private drive, and a slurry seal on 746th Ave. The board also addressed dust control letters, illegal dumping, and a quote for road work on 700th Ave.

• Approved bills totaling $12,040.42 (checks 2619-2626)
• Public hearing notice for conditional use permit at 71641 178th St to move more than 10 cubic yards of material in shoreland district
• Discussed complaint about road at end of 173rd Ave, clarified it is a private drive not maintained by township
• Explained slurry on 746th Ave was an oil base slurry, not asphalt
• Received quote from Mid Minnesota Hot Mix for 515' x 22' on 700th Ave

Ellsworth Township Board

The Ellsworth Township Board discussed drafting an ordinance to regulate short-term rentals (VRBOs), prompted by resident concerns about overcrowding, septic issues, traffic, and fireworks. The board also reviewed routine bills, discussed a shared road paving project, and set a 5-minute limit for public comments during open meetings.

• Approved paying bills including $2,564.80 to Meeker County Hwy Dept for a bump sign on 195th and 205th St
• Discussed drafting a VRBO ordinance with a three-step enforcement (notice, response, fine)
• Explored shared cost with Meeker Sand and Gravel and Dunnick to tar the road by the pit on 195th
• Considered township cleanup of debris on road to Lake Erie and 675th, with $35 per mattress disposal cost
• Set 5-minute limit for public comments during open meetings

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission held public hearings on three conditional use permits: a feedlot expansion from 350 to 651 animal units, a shoreline project moving more than 10 cubic yards of material, and a proposed 1-megawatt community solar garden. The first two were approved with conditions; the solar garden hearing was held but the applicant was not present, and the City of Dassel formally requested denial. The commission also approved the previous meeting's minutes.

• Approved Schneider Farms feedlot expansion to 651 animal units (from 350) in Forest Prairie Township, with conditions including inspections and manure management.
• Approved Linda Terry-Tiebel's shoreline project at 71641 178th St, Dassel, moving up to 50 cubic yards of material on Lake Jennie.
• Heard public comments on SolarClub 40 LLC's proposed 1-MW solar garden (approx. 3,350 panels) at 22325 CSAH 4, Dassel; City of Dassel formally requested denial due to conflict with growth plans.
• Solar garden decommissioning cost estimated at $117,608 without salvage, $29,504 with salvage.
• Commission approved March 9, 2021 meeting minutes 7-0.

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider three conditional use permits: a feedlot expansion, a shoreland material move, and a community solar garden. They will also approve the previous meeting's minutes and discuss other business.

• Schneider Farms, LLC: expand feedlot from 350 to 651 animal units in Forest Prairie Township
• Linda Terry-Tiebel: move >10 cubic yards of material in Shoreland District, Eagle Point, Lake Jennie, Collinwood Township
• SolarClub 40, LLC: construct 1 MW community solar garden (3350 panels) in Dassel Township
• Approve March 9, 2021 meeting minutes

Dassel Township Board

The board approved chip sealing for 1.8 miles of road and appointed Kevin Rossow as chairman for 2021. Discussion included a proposed City of Dassel land annexation ordinance and the decision to end shared maintenance on certain roads with Collinwood Township.

• Approved chip sealing for 1.8 miles of 250th and 692
• Appointed Kevin Rossow as chairman for 2021
• Decided to end shared maintenance on 725th and 713th with Collinwood Township
• Approved replacing the culvert on 735th Avenue & County Ditch 8
• Extended contract for Township Assessor Brice Nelson for one year

Dassel Township Board

The Dassel Township Board is notifying the public that its regular monthly meeting date has changed. Starting April 12, 2021, meetings will occur on the second Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m.

• Meeting date changed to the second Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m.

Dassel Township Board

The Local Board of Appeal and Equalization will meet to determine if taxable property has been properly valued and classified by the assessor. The board may make corrections to assessments for residents who disagree with their valuation.

• Review of property valuations and classifications
• Public appeals process for 2021 property taxes

Dassel Township Board

The Board of Appeals and Equalization increased township property values from 77% to 83% to align with Minnesota Department of Revenue standards. The board also reviewed several individual property value appeals.

• Increased township property values from 77% to 83%
• Approved $85,400 annual value increase for Chad Miller (07-0907000)
• Accepted recommendation to reduce Tormanen (07-0186000) value to $13,600
• Accepted recommendation to reduce Milo Carlson (07-002800) value by $6,500
• Denied change for Darwin S (07-0003000)

Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will review the 2022 County Allocation/Budget and discuss COVID-19 preparedness plan modifications. The meeting includes reports on field office activities, farm bills, and various training updates.

• 2022 County Allocation/Budget report
• Financial and Administrative Coordinator Position discussion
• COVID-19 Preparedness Plan Modifications
• Johnson/Swenson Cover Crop Seed cost share
• John Froning (FY19-03) cost share

The Meeker SWCD Board approved resolutions supporting the split of the Mississippi River Sartell/St. Cloud watershed planning boundary and an application for a One Watershed, One Plan planning grant. They also approved cost-share payments, including $4,000 to Thomas Orwoll and encumbered funds for three projects. Other actions included approving a 24-month CD conversion, COVID-19 plan changes, a Google shared drive, and rain barrel purchases.

• Approved resolutions supporting the split of the Mississippi River Sartell/St. Cloud watershed boundary and a One Watershed, One Plan planning grant application.
• Approved $4,000 cost-share payment to Thomas Orwoll for shoreland project LC19-07.
• Encumbered cost-share funds for Jeff Anderson ($3,690.63), Fred Behnke ($10,060.25), and Cory Meierhofer ($6,065.71).
• Approved converting CD number 29561 from 18 to 24 months.
• Approved changes to the COVID-19 Preparedness Plan regarding vaccinations.
• Approved using a Google shared drive at $6/seat/month plus $12 annual domain fee.
• Approved purchasing 20 rain barrels for resale at $50.25 each.
• Approved the agenda, minutes, and treasurer's report as presented.

Ellsworth Township Board

The Ellsworth Township Board discussed bonding for road repairs, including blacktopping around Lake Manuella, and set a $150,000 emergency fund. They also reviewed bills, heard updates on grants and elections, and discussed VRBO regulations and meeting procedures.

• Approved bills including $17,947.08 to Dassel Fire Dept and $540.00 to Murphy Construction for plowing
• Discussed bonding for road repairs, with 216th and 208th streets prioritized
• Set $150,000 emergency fund for road repairs
• Approved $20/month copy cost reimbursement
• Discussed VRBO resolution and planning/zoning approval of Hjerpe project

Board of Adjustments

The Board of Adjustment met to review four variance applications regarding building setbacks and lot dimensions. The board also elected Kim Hempel as Chairman and Al Anderson as Vice Chairman for 2021.

• Approved second water-oriented structure for Wayne & Debra Seppelt at 9520 10th St SW
• Approved in-ground swimming pool installation for Kurt & Ramona Hjerpe at 16503 673rd Ave
• Approved house reconstruction setback variance for Andy & Nicole Jung at 74719 309th St
• Approved parcel split and lot width variance for Dale & Katherine Fenrich at 25169 CSAH 1

Board of Adjustments

The Meeker County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to consider four area variance applications, each seeking relief from zoning requirements for properties in shoreland or agricultural districts. The board will also approve prior meeting minutes and elect a 2021 chairman and vice chairman.

• Seppelt variance: second water-oriented structure at 32359 748th Ave, South Haven (Lake Francis, Kingston Twp.)
• Hjerpe variance: swimming pool within 75-ft setback at Belle Lake, Ellsworth Twp.
• Jung variance: house within 200-ft setback at Mud Lake, Kingston Twp.
• Fenrich variance: parcel with less than 200-ft rear lot line width in Litchfield Twp.
• Approve Dec 8, 2020 minutes; elect 2021 officers

Collinwood Township Board

The board approved annual salaries for township officials and authorized the purchase of a computer for the Treasurer. The board also reviewed a dust control quote involving cost-sharing between the township and residents.

• Approved 2021 salaries: Clerk $2,400, Treasurer $2,200, Chair Supervisor $1,700, and Supervisors $1,400 each
• Dust control plan: Township to pay 55 cents per foot and residents to pay 50 cents per foot
• Authorized purchase of a computer and software for Treasurer Laura Holm
• Approved payment of bills totaling $7,863.65
• Designated Dassel Enterprise Dispatch as newspaper and Perennial Bank as bank

Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors

The Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors is holding a special meeting. The purpose of the meeting is to hire a Financial and Administrative Coordinator.

• Hiring of a Financial and Administrative Coordinator

The Meeker County Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors held a special meeting to interview two candidates for the Financial and Administrative Coordinator position. The board voted unanimously to offer the full-time position to Lacey Clark at an hourly wage of $23 plus benefits. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved offering the full-time Financial and Administrative Coordinator job to Lacey Clark at $23 per hour plus benefits.
• Adjourned the meeting.

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on March 9, 2021, to consider four applications: a conditional use permit for a 1-megawatt solar garden, a renewal of an interim use permit for an asphalt plant, an interim use permit for a temporary second dwelling, and a rezone request. The meeting will also include approval of previous minutes and discussion of other business.

• Conditional use permit for 1 MW solar garden (approx. 3500 panels) in Acton Township
• Renewal of interim use permit for asphalt plant in Greenleaf Township
• Interim use permit for temporary second dwelling in Union Grove Township
• Rezone from A-1 Agricultural Preservation to R-2 Rural Residential in Dassel Township
• Possible Dale Fenrich plat discussion

Dassel Township Board

The Dassel Township Board approved a $500,000 levy for 2022 and certified election results for Supervisor and Treasurer. The board also discussed upcoming road maintenance using scrub seal and chip seal, as well as potential fire hall costs.

• Increased 2022 levy to $500,000.00
• Estimated $210,000.00 for road projects on 240th, 705th, and 250th
• $45,000.00 seal coating for the bike trail
• $500.00 membership for the Dassel History Center
• Increased meeting compensation to $75.00

Dassel Township Board

Dassel Township will hold its annual meeting and election of officers on March 9, 2021. Voters will elect a supervisor and a treasurer. The meeting will conduct business as prescribed by law.

• Election of 1 Supervisor (3-year term)
• Election of 1 Treasurer (2-year term)
• Board of Canvass meeting
• Annual Town meeting

Collinwood Township Board

The Collinwood Township Board held its annual meeting, approving a $249,000 proposed budget for 2022 and a $51,300 fire protection contract with Dassel Fire Dept. They also discussed road projects, dust coating cost-sharing, and other routine township business.

• Approved 2022 proposed budget totaling $249,000
• Fire protection contract with Dassel Fire Dept for 2022 at $51,300
• Contract with Fahrner Asphalt Sealers LLC for crack filling, spray patching, and micro surfacing
• Dust coating cost split: 80% homeowner, 20% township
• Board of Appeal & Equalization meeting set for April 15, 2021

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission held public hearings and voted on three land-use applications. They approved a conditional use permit for a 1-megawatt solar garden in Acton Township, renewed an interim use permit for an asphalt plant in Greenleaf Township, and approved an interim use permit for a temporary second dwelling in Union Grove Township. All approvals were unanimous with conditions.

• Conditional use permit for Rafterville Solar LLC: 1 MW solar garden, ~3,500 panels on 16.5 acres in Acton Township, with $75,000 decommissioning bond
• Interim use permit renewal for Knife River asphalt plant in Greenleaf Township, allowing 30 consecutive days of operation per year, expiring March 16, 2024
• Interim use permit for temporary second dwelling for blood relative in Union Grove Township, expiring in 15 years
• Rezone application by Randy & Marilyn Hed from A-1 to R-2 (hearing opened but not detailed in provided text)

Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors

The Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors will meet to discuss 2021 allocation planning and internal financial controls. The board will also review cost share requests for several individuals and projects. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, public participation is limited to remote access.

• 2021 Allocation Planning for Dedicated County Funding
• Internal Financial Controls Policy
• Cost share reviews for Ben Nyman, Richard Burkstrand, Jon Barka, John Froning, and Thomas Orwoll
• Johnson/Swenson Cover Crop Seed cost share
• Financial and Administrative Coordinator Position

The Meeker County Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved routine financial items, including bills payable of $23,472.01, a tree ad, a computer purchase, and cost-share payments. They transferred encumbered state cost-share funds to local capacity funding for three projects and authorized return of T&A funds. A discussion on the Johnson/Swenson cover crop was tabled until April.

• Approved agenda with Slinden cost share item (all in favor)
• Approved minutes of Feb 2, 2021 meeting (all in favor)
• Approved Treasurer's Report including bills payable of $23,472.01 (all in favor)
• Approved $564.63 for tree ad in Independent Review and Advertiser (all in favor)
• Approved payment of insurance deductible for catalytic converter replacement (all in favor)
• Authorized computer purchase for Steinhaus up to $1,200 (all in favor)
• Approved $1,232.38 cost-share payment to Ben Nyman for waterway project FY20-02 (all in favor)
• Tabled Johnson/Swenson cover crop discussion until April (all in favor)

Dassel Township Board

The board reviewed road maintenance needs, including potential chip sealing and scrub seal applications on 705th and 738th. Members also scheduled the annual meeting and election for March 9, 2021. The board decided to change future monthly meetings to the second Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m.

• Approved speed limit caution signs (35 MPH) at 735th off Hwy 12 and 730th off 240th
• Payments approved for Herald Journal ($140.88), Brice Nelson ($1,000.00), and Wells Fargo ($36,205.25)
• Approved the Murphy snow bill for February
• Scheduled Board of Appeal meeting for April 8, 2021
• Annual meeting and election for one Supervisor and one Treasurer set for March 9, 2021

Dassel Township Board

The Dassel Township Board changed the date of the March 2021 regular monthly meeting to March 2, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. This is a one-time change for the month of March.

Ellsworth Township Board

The Ellsworth Township Board met to approve minutes, pay bills, and discuss routine administrative items. They voted to keep the same levy amounts as last year and addressed old and new business including a furnace repair, LRIP grant paperwork, and missing deer crossing signs.

• Approved bills including $472.50 to Murphy Construction for plowing and $700 for gravel and skid rental
• Kept levy at General $23,000, Fire $46,000, Road $240,000
• Discussed LRIP grant, with resolution to be prepared by Clerk Lori Johnson
• Noted missing deer crossing signs on 198th and 196th streets, cost to be determined
• Heard concern from Roadside Restaurant owner about Cares Act eligibility

Collinwood Township Board

The Collinwood Township Board reviewed 2021 gravel quotes, discussed road maintenance complaints, and handled routine business. The 2022 budget was discussed and will be voted on at the Annual Meeting on March 9, 2021. The board also addressed vehicle removal on 205th St and approved bills totaling $60,498.37.

• Gravel quotes for 5,500 yards: Meeker Wash $11.35/yard, Knife River $17.75, B&S Trucking $12.75, McCarthy $13.98
• Second letter sent to Dassel Township about ending road maintenance on 725th Ave
• Complaint letter about road maintenance on 705th Ave, 173rd St, and 700th Ave
• Vehicles not removed from turnaround at end of 205th St; snowplowing limited
• Bills paid: $60,498.37 for checks 2604-2615

Dassel Township Board

The board approved the 2021 fire contract and a $9,377.15 snow removal invoice for January. Discussion included road maintenance, sign replacements, and upcoming township elections.

• Approved $9,377.15 snow removal invoice from Michael Murphy Construction
• Approved 2021 fire contract
• Appointed Karin Colberg and David Isaacson as election judges for March 9, 2021
• Discussed road maintenance including sanding/salting intersections and chip seal projects
• Announced annual meeting on March 9, 2021 to elect one Supervisor and one Treasurer

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit for James and Megan Koski to move material in the shoreland zone of Lake Washington, with conditions including a maximum of 77 cubic yards and a passing septic inspection. The board also discussed potential plats for Hed/Lundin and Dale Fenrich, and heard concerns about vacation rentals (VRBOs) in the county, considering possible regulations.

• Approved CUP for Koski property at 68935 233rd St, Dassel, to move up to 77 cubic yards of material in shoreland zone
• Discussed possible plat for Hed/Lundin property near Lake Arvilla for a new house
• Discussed possible plat for Dale Fenrich, deferred until he can be present
• Discussed VRBO regulations, noting 60-100 VRBOs in county and examples from Ottertail and Cook counties

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission will consider a conditional use permit regarding material movement and shoreland alterations. The meeting also includes the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Conditional Use permit for James and Megan Koski at 68935 233rd St, Dassel
• Permit for moving over 10 cubic yards of material in Shoreland Impact Zone
• Permit for over 50 cubic yards of material for shoreland alterations
• Approval of January 19, 2020 meeting minutes

Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors

The Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors will meet via teleconference to review financial reports and administrative policies. The board will discuss internal financial controls, payroll direct deposit, and an administrative position. Cost share agreements for Luke Johnson and Richard Burkstrand are also on the agenda.

• Internal Financial Controls Policy
• 2020 Audit Bid
• Cost share for Luke Johnson (FY20-01)
• Cost share for Richard Burkstrand
• Mark Johnson CREP/Swenson Road Bank

The Meeker County Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved several administrative and financial actions, including a new Financial and Administrative Coordinator job description, payroll direct deposit, and multiple cost-share payments. They also accepted an audit bid and authorized a laptop purchase. All votes were unanimous except one abstention on a CREP petition.

• Approved agenda with removal of Burkstrand cost share and addition of laptop and cost share items (4-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Report with $55,008.35 in bills payable (4-0)
• Converted CD #27976 from 6-month to 12-month term (4-0)
• Accepted audit bid from Peterson & Company for 2020 financial books (4-0)
• Approved $10,000 payment to Luke Johnson for water and sediment control basin (4-0)
• Approved $13,514.65 partial payment to Robert Kipf for grassed waterway (4-0)
• Authorized return of $10,104.54 from 2019 State Cost Share Grant (4-0)
• Approved job description for Financial and Administrative Coordinator and directed advertising (4-0)

Dassel Township Board

The board met to discuss the rising costs of road maintenance and review budget numbers for 2020 and 2021. Supervisors discussed the potential use of chip seal and ways to increase oversight of maintenance performed by Murphy.

• Review of 2020 budget numbers and 2021 proposed budget
• Discussion of chip seal process for roads
• Review of road maintenance costs associated with Murphy
• Reported Wells Fargo balance of 36,205.25

Ellsworth Township Board

The Ellsworth Township Board discussed and decided to draft a letter to Meeker County Planning and Zoning requesting an ordinance or regulation for VRBO (vacation rental by owner) properties, citing issues with noise, parking, and septic capacity. The board also approved paying bills totaling over $137,000, including a final bond payment of $91,080 and road work invoices. Other items included discussing a potential state grant for road improvements and considering a request to trade snow plowing for dust control.

• Approved payment of $91,080 final bond payment to Northland Trust
• Approved $45,951 in road work invoices to Luedtke Contracting
• Decided to draft letter to Meeker County Planning and Zoning about VRBO regulation
• Discussed LRIP grant for road improvements, estimated $400,000 per mile
• Considered request to trade plowing 672nd St for dust control

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission will hold a remote public hearing on January 19, 2021, to consider a conditional use permit for NexGen Dairy, LLC to expand its existing Class B feedlot to a Class C feedlot, increasing capacity from 995 to 1,650 animal units. The commission will also approve the November 17, 2020 meeting minutes and hold general discussion. The proposed expansion is located in Manannah Township, Section 4, and notice has been given to property owners within 5,000 feet as required by state law.

• NexGen Dairy, LLC feedlot expansion from Class B (995 AU) to Class C (1,650 AU)
• Proposed site: SE ¼ of NW ¼ and S ½ of NE ¼, Section 4, T121, R31, Manannah Township
• Existing structures include an 87,960 sq ft dairy building and multiple sheds
• Expansion adds 200 calves, 200 heifers, and 1,050 dairy cattle
• Public notice to residents and property owners within 5,000 feet of the feedlot

Collinwood Township Board

The Collinwood Township Board approved a $123,296.43 road maintenance contract with Fahrner Asphalt Sealers for crack filling, micro surfacing, and spray patching on township tar roads. The board also discussed the upcoming March 9 township election, including open positions and the need for election judges, and authorized seeking quotes for 5,500 yards of gravel for township roads.

• Approved $123,296.43 contract with Fahrner Asphalt Sealers for road maintenance
• Township election set for March 9, 2021; seeking three election judges
• Authorized quotes for 5,500 yards of class 1 modified crushed gravel
• Discussed resending letter to Dassel Township about ending road maintenance on 725th Ave
• Paid bills totaling $14,793.59 (checks 2598-2603)

Planning & Zoning

The Meeker County Planning Commission voted 7-0 to approve a conditional use permit for NexGen Dairy, LLC to expand its existing Class B feedlot to a Class C feedlot with a total capacity of 1,650 animal units. The expansion will occur at the existing site in Manannah Township, and the permit includes conditions such as regular inspections, manure management, and compliance with state regulations. The decision will be forwarded to the Meeker County Board of Commissioners for final approval.

• Approved conditional use permit for NexGen Dairy to expand feedlot from 995 to 1,650 animal units
• Expansion site: SW ¼ of NE ¼ and S ½ of NE ¼, Section 4, Township 121, Range 31, Manannah Township
• Feedlot will be monitored by MPCA instead of county
• Conditions include annual inspections (fee $150 or greater) and manure nutrient testing
• Applicant has 18 months from final approval to complete expansion

Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors is discussing the organizational structure of the District. The meeting focuses on the potential hiring of a District Manager and how that role would change board and staff communications.

• Discussion of organizational structural models (Vertical, Horizontal, Work Flow, and Network)
• Review of District Manager job description and required skills
• Discussion on the use of Memorandums of Understanding
• Analysis of District strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges

The Meeker County Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors held a special meeting on January 13, 2021, focused on future district planning. No formal business was transacted. Facilitator Jim Mulder offered recommendations on organizational structure, job descriptions, and personnel policies, and next steps were outlined for drafting a job description and advertising a position.

• No business transacted at this meeting
• Holtz to draft job description for review before Feb 2 board meeting
• Position to be advertised after February meeting, interviews targeted for March

Dassel Township Board

The provided document is a filing notice for township offices. It outlines the dates and location for candidates to file for open positions.

• Filing for one supervisor (3-year term)
• Filing for one Treasurer (2-year term)
• Filing deadline: January 12, 2021, at 5:00 p.m.
• Candidate withdrawal deadline: January 14, 2021, at 5:00 p.m.

Dassel Township Board

The Dassel Township Board met to approve monthly bills and discuss road maintenance. The board authorized a driveway relocation on 273rd and the hauling of fill to a property on 250th. Supervisors are beginning a review of road improvements and potential levy increases.

• Payment of bills totaling $47,717.48
• Approval to move existing driveway and remove old approach on 273rd for Deven Lundin
• Approval for Lindberg Excavating to haul approximately 1,200 yd of fill to PID 07-0097010 on 250th
• Discussion with ASTECH regarding the use of chip seal on gravel roads
• Planned replacement of a T road sign at 723rd and a speed limit sign on 735th

Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will meet via teleconference to conduct annual organizational business. The body will decide on 2021 meeting schedules, compensation rates, and internal financial policies.

• Election of Officers
• COVID-19 Preparedness Plan Modifications
• Internal Financial Controls Policy
• Supervisor Compensation Rate
• Cost Share for Luke Johnson (FY20-01)