Morrison County public meetings in 2021

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners is meeting to approve the 2022 final levy and budget, along with several contracts and licenses. Key actions include a 10-year agreement with Axon Enterprise for body and squad car cameras, approval of the 2022 fee schedule, and adoption of the 2022 establishment licenses for food, pools, and lodging.

• Approved 10-year Axon Enterprise contract for squad car and body cameras at $89,753.54 annually
• Approved 2022 final levy of $22,023,016 and total budget of $54,078,418
• Approved 2022 fee schedule and mileage/meals reimbursement increases
• Approved 2022 establishment licenses totaling $83,169.00
• Approved Resolution 2021-114 for opioid settlement participation

The Morrison County Board approved routine year-end items, including $350,737.81 in commissioner warrants, 2022 licenses for food/pools/lodging and solid waste haulers, and several appointments. All votes were unanimous. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved $350,737.81 in commissioner warrants (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 FPL license for Pierz Ballroom & Lanes Inc., $639 (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 food, pool, and lodging establishment licenses (unanimous)
• Approved offer to new Jail Administrator above mid-range, Grade 31 Step 7 (unanimous)
• Made part-time motor vehicle position permanent full-time (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #2021-115 for Wild Gobblers gambling permit (unanimous)
• Approved changes to authorized signers on Business Now account (unanimous)
• Endorsed Steve Barrows for Sourcewell Board and appointed Dave Fisher to RDFA Board (unanimous)

County Board of Commissioners

The County Board reviewed a proposal for a new body-worn camera program for the Sheriff's Office. The board also voted to set 2022 Commissioner salaries with a 3% cost-of-living adjustment.

• Public hearing regarding implementing a body-worn camera (BWC) program in the Sheriff’s Office
• Approval of a 10-year agreement with Axon Enterprise Inc for squad car and body cameras at an annual cost of $89,753.54
• Resolution to set 2022 Commissioner Salaries at $34,881.60 with a 3% COLA
• Approval of environmental health license for KRMM Hospitality, LLC (Perkins)
• Ratification of professional services agreement with TriMin Systems, Inc and MnCCC for IFS System maintenance

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners approved an interim use permit for Janet Holtz-Virnig to operate a limited rural firewood processing business on her property in Two Rivers Township, with two conditions. The board also adopted the 2022 Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Plan. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved interim use permit for firewood processing business (4-0)
• Adopted 2022 Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Plan

Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will meet to consider two land-use applications. The body will review a request for a home-based firewood business and a variance for a home addition.

• Interim Use Permit for Janet Holtz at 11658 Hwy 238 to process firewood
• Variance application for Jerome & Bonnie Theisen at 4574 Tee Rd for a home addition

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment approved a variance request by Jerome and Bonnie Theisen to construct a one-story home addition onto a non-conforming structure at 4574 Tee Rd, Cushing, MN. The motion carried unanimously with conditions. The board also approved the November 16, 2021 minutes and adjourned.

• Approved variance for Theisen home addition (all in favor)
• Approved November 16, 2021 minutes (all in favor)

Planning Commission

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment and Planning Commission will hold a joint meeting to consider two applications: an interim use permit for a home-based firewood processing business and a variance for a home addition to a non-conforming structure. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the previous meeting and standard procedural items.

• Interim Use Permit for Janet Holtz to process firewood at 11658 Hwy 238, Royalton, in Two Rivers Township
• Variance request by Jerome & Bonnie Theisen to construct a home addition onto a non-conforming structure at 4574 Tee Rd, Cushing, in Scandia Valley Township
• Approval of November 16, 2021 minutes for both Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment

The Morrison County Planning Commission held a public hearing and unanimously recommended approval of Janet Holtz's interim use permit for a home extended business to process firewood at 11658 Hwy 238, Royalton, MN, with conditions. The application will go before the Morrison County Board of Commissioners on December 21, 2021. The commission also approved the November 16, 2021 minutes with corrections.

• Recommended approval of interim use permit for firewood processing at 11658 Hwy 238 (unanimous)
• Approved November 16, 2021 minutes with corrections (unanimous)

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on implementing a body-worn camera program for the Sheriff's Office, as required by state statute before purchasing such systems. The board will also consider a resolution to apply for up to $10,000 in Sourcewell Community Match Funds to help update squad car cameras and add body-worn cameras. Other agenda items include reports from the Sheriff, Social Services, Public Health, and Auditor, plus approval of county warrants.

• Public hearing on body-worn camera program for Sheriff's Office
• Resolution to apply for $10,000 Sourcewell Community Match Funds for camera system
• Approval of county warrants totaling $432,176.90
• Interim Use Permit for sawmill in Pike Creek Township
• Grant agreements: $75,000 to Morrison County Recreational Trail Association, $100,000 to EEI for glass recycling

The minutes contain no formal board decisions; they consist of a Sourcewell Community Match Funds application submitted by Morrison County for a $10,000 grant to upgrade squad car cameras and add body-worn cameras for the Sheriff's Office and local police departments. The application describes the project, budget, and public purpose, but no vote or board action is recorded.

• Submitted $10,000 Community Match Funds application to Sourcewell for mobile video recorder and body-worn camera program
• Project budget totals $943,000 with $10,000 from Sourcewell, $933,000 from county reserve, and $123,000 from local police agencies
• Requested $10,000 to apply to first year of contract for squad car and body-worn camera hardware, licensing, storage, training, installation, and warranty

Drainage Authority Board

The Drainage Authority Board will review written public responses regarding Public Ditch #18. The meeting agenda also includes a call to order and approval of minutes.

• Review of public written responses on Public Ditch #18
• List of 60+ property owners with benefit amounts totaling $100,000.00 for ditch maintenance/projects

The Drainage Authority Board approved the minutes from its November 16, 2021 meeting. The board also authorized the county engineer to prepare an Engineers Repair Report for Ditch 18, using only contracted sources. The meeting adjourned at 10:46 a.m.

• Approved the Drainage Authority Board minutes for November 16, 2021.
• Authorized the county engineer to prepare an Engineers Repair Report for Ditch 18, limited to contracted sources.
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:46 a.m.

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners is meeting to receive departmental reports from the Sheriff, Extension, Social Services, Public Health, Land Services, Motor Vehicle, Auditor, Public Works, and Administrator. The board will also consider approval of county warrants and other routine actions. This is a regular business meeting with no major policy decisions listed on the tentative agenda.

• Sheriff's monthly report
• Extension office activities report
• Social Services and Public Health reports
• County Board warrants approval
• Public Works report

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners approved an Interim Use Permit for Jason and Carolyn Frank to operate a Wood Products Manufacturer (sawmill) on their 160-acre agriculturally zoned parcel. The permit allows the Franks to mill lumber for sale, relocating their existing sawmill operation from Milaca. The Board also approved a two-year contract for legal services with Scott Wonderlich for public defender representation in CHIPS and Termination of Parental Rights cases, and received recommendations for appointments to the Rich Prairie Sewer & Water District Board.

• Approved Interim Use Permit for Jason and Carolyn Frank to operate a Wood Products Manufacturer (sawmill) on their property (PID 22.0253.000)
• Approved contract for legal services with Scott Wonderlich for public defender services in CHIPS and Termination of Parental Rights cases, effective January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2023
• Received recommendations from city councils for appointments to the Rich Prairie Sewer & Water District Board

County Board of Commissioners

The County Board of Commissioners will conduct interviews for the County Administrator position. The session includes reviewing the interview process and meeting with five individual applicants.

• Interviews for Seth Kauffman
• Interviews for Scott Saehr
• Interviews for Shannon Coyle
• Interviews for Matthew LeBlanc
• Board deliberations regarding the administrator position

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners interviewed four candidates for the County Administrator position and voted unanimously to offer the job to Matthew LeBlanc. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with no other substantive decisions made.

• Offered County Administrator position to Matthew LeBlanc (5-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission is considering an interim use permit for a sawmill. The Board of Adjustment will review three separate variance applications for home additions and non-conforming structures.

• Interim Use Permit for a sawmill at 15431 Davenport Rd
• Variance for a home addition within a bluff setback at 33875 East Shamineau Dr
• Variance to add onto a non-conforming structure at 6466 Azalea Rd
• Variance to add onto a non-conforming structure at 12183 Hillton Rd

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment approved two variances and denied none, though the first two approvals were opposed by Chair Dave Stish. The board approved a variance for James & Lynda Dahlheimer to build a home addition within a bluff setback (4-1), and a variance for Norbert & Darlene Cronin to add onto a non-conforming structure (4-1). A third variance for Jeffery Kruschek to add onto a non-conforming structure was approved unanimously (5-0).

• Approved Dahlheimer variance for bluff setback addition (4-1, Stish opposed)
• Approved Cronin variance to add onto non-conforming structure (4-1, Stish opposed)
• Approved Kruschek variance to add onto non-conforming structure (5-0)
• Approved November 3, 2021 minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Drainage Authority Board

The November 16, 2021, meeting agenda includes a discussion regarding an unauthorized outlet for Public Ditch 1. The provided minutes from the October 5, 2021, meeting show the board approved the September 21, 2021, minutes and the Engineers Repair Report for Public Ditch System 17.

• Discussion of Public Ditch 1 – Unauthorized Outlet
• Approval of Public Ditch System 17 Engineers Repair Report

The Morrison County Drainage Authority Board approved minutes from October 5, 2021, and acted on a ditch petition. The board approved receiving the petition request, cancelling the request, and allowing the public works director to work with the owner to bring the land into compliance with MN Statute 103E.401. The meeting adjourned at 10:11 a.m.

• Approved minutes from October 5, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved receiving petition request, cancellation of request, and public works director working with owner on compliance (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider an interim use permit for a sawmill in Pike Creek Township. The Board of Adjustment will review three applications for variances regarding home additions and non-conforming structures.

• Interim Use Permit for a sawmill at 15431 Davenport Rd, Little Falls
• Variance for a home addition within a bluff setback at 33875 East Shamineau Dr, Motley
• Variance to add onto a non-conforming structure at 6466 Azalea Rd, Motley
• Variance to add onto a non-conforming structure at 12183 Hillton Rd, Little Falls

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment approved all three variance applications on the agenda. The Dahlheimer variance to build a home addition within a bluff setback was approved 4-1 with conditions. The Cronin variance to add onto a non-conforming structure was approved 4-1 with one condition. The Kruschek variance to add onto a non-conforming structure was approved unanimously.

• Approved Dahlheimer variance for bluff setback addition (4-1, Stish opposed)
• Approved Cronin variance to add onto non-conforming structure (4-1, Stish opposed)
• Approved Kruschek variance to add onto non-conforming structure (5-0)
• Approved November 3, 2021 minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will review two change orders for the Little Falls Airport regarding asphalt price increases. The board will also consider a proclamation declaring November as Adoption Awareness Month.

• Review of $9,615.11 change order for Hot Mix Asphalt price increase at Little Falls Airport
• Proclamation of November as National Adoption Month in Morrison County
• Discussion of runway 18-36 construction and lighting system updates

The Morrison County Board approved a three-year agreement with the University of Minnesota for local Extension programs, effective January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2024. The agreement funds 1.5 FTE positions (0.5 Agriculture Educator and 1.0 4-H Youth Development Educator) at annual costs of $119,591 (2022), $122,540 (2023), and $125,583 (2024). The board also approved two gambling exempt permits for local nonprofit events.

• Approved 3-year Extension agreement with U of M (2022-2024)
• Approved bingo permit for Morrison County Ducks Unlimited on Nov 28, 2021
• Approved gun calendar raffle permit for Clear Lake Lions on Dec 4, 2021

Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment are meeting to review applications for conditional and interim use permits. The Board of Adjustment will consider two variance requests regarding setbacks and lot creation.

• Galston Construction LLC: Conditional Use Permit for storage rental facility at 3682 320th St
• Autumn Antlers Properties LLC: Interim Use Permit for Licensed Residential Treatment Center at 1280 180th St
• James & Lynn Barthel Revoc Fam Trust: Variance for home construction within feedlot setbacks at 11996 Badger Creek Rd
• St Johns Church: Variance to create two non-conforming lots at 26733 63rd St

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment approved two variance requests. The first allowed James & Lynn Barthel to build a home within the setback of two feedlots, with one condition. The second allowed St. Johns Church to create two non-conforming lots in an agricultural zone, also with one condition. Both votes were unanimous.

• Approved variance for Barthel home within feedlot setback (unanimous)
• Approved variance for St. Johns Church to create two non-conforming lots (unanimous)
• Approved September 28, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider permits for a storage rental facility and a residential treatment center. The Board of Adjustment will review variance requests regarding home construction setbacks and lot creation.

• Conditional Use Permit for Galston Construction LLC storage facility in Scandia Valley Township
• Interim Use Permit for Autumn Antlers Properties LLC residential treatment center in Parker Township
• Variance request for James & Lynn Barthel Revoc Fam Trust to build a home near feedlots in Swanville Township
• Variance request for St Johns Church to create two non-conforming lots in Buckman Township

The Morrison County Planning Commission recommended denial of an Interim Use Permit for a licensed residential treatment center proposed by Autumn Antlers Properties LLC in Parker Township. The commission also recommended approval of a Conditional Use Permit for a storage rental facility by Galston Construction LLC in Scandia Valley Township. Both applications will go before the Morrison County Board of Commissioners on November 9, 2021.

• Recommended approval of Conditional Use Permit for Galston Construction storage rental facility (all in favor)
• Recommended denial of Interim Use Permit for Autumn Antlers Properties residential treatment center (all in favor)
• Approved October 12, 2021 meeting minutes (all in favor)

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners is meeting to consider a rezone request, a road construction agreement with the City of Royalton, and routine reports from county departments. The agenda is largely procedural, with most items being approvals of minutes, reports, and standard resolutions.

• Rezone Resolution #2021-093 for John & Sandra Monroe, Agriculture to Residential, Section 2 of Ripley Township
• Agreement with City of Royalton for reconstruction of CR 234 (North Hawthorn St) from East Centre Street to 53rd Street
• Resolution #2021-095 adopting Public Works Title VI Plan
• Resolution #2021-094 Land Use Control Ordinance Section 1500 amendments
• Approval of $607,033.86 in county warrants

The Morrison County Board approved a repurchase application from Jerome and Mary Koetter for two tax-forfeited lots in Swanville, with all commissioners voting aye. The board also appointed Anthony Hennen as Public Works Engineer for a five-month term and approved the prior meeting minutes and agenda.

• Approved repurchase of tax-forfeited lots 18 and 18A, Block 2, Swanville Judicial Plat No. 1 (unanimous roll call)
• Appointed Anthony Hennen as Morrison County Public Works Engineer from 12/1/2021 through 4/30/2022 (unanimous)
• Approved October 19, 2021 board minutes (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss and act on routine reports from county departments, including the Sheriff, Social Services, Public Health, and Public Works. A key action is approving the 2022 work plan and budget for the Lake Alexander Lake Improvement District, setting the levy at $75 per parcel. The agenda also includes reports from the Extension Office and other county staff.

• Approve 2022 work plan and budget for Lake Alexander LID, levy at $75 per parcel
• Reports from Sheriff, Social Services, Public Health, Land Services, and Public Works
• County Board warrants and expenses for approval
• Extension report on September activities
• Committee reports and upcoming schedule

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners approved an After-the-Fact Interim Use Permit for Michael and Heather Wochnick to continue operating a clothing boutique in a 40' x 50' shed on their 75-acre property in Pike Creek Township. The permit is effective until they no longer own the property. The board also considered proposed amendments to Land Use Control Ordinance Section 1500, per the Planning Commission's recommendation, but no final action on the amendments is recorded in the minutes.

• Approved After-the-Fact Interim Use Permit for clothing boutique at PID 22.0255.001
• Permit effective until applicants no longer own the property
• Considered Land Use Control Ordinance Section 1500 amendments (no final action recorded)

Planning Commission

The Morrison County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will meet to discuss and decide on several land-use applications, including a rezoning request, an interim use permit, and a variance. The agenda also includes proposed ordinance amendments and approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Rezone from Agriculture to Residential for future development in Ripley Township (John & Sandra Monroe)
• After-the-fact Interim Use Permit for a home extended business (retail store) at 15346 Davenport Rd, Little Falls (Michael & Heather Wochnick)
• Variance to add onto a non-conforming structure at 5553 320th St, Cushing (Jeziorski Revoc Family Trust)
• Proposed Ordinance Amendments
• Approval of minutes from August 3, 2021 and September 28, 2021

The Morrison County Planning Commission recommended approval of a request to rezone a parcel in Ripley Township from Agriculture to Residential, despite opposition from neighbors and Camp Ripley officials. The commission also recommended approval of an after-the-fact interim use permit for a home extended business in Pike Creek Township and approved proposed ordinance amendments. All recommendations will go before the Morrison County Board of Commissioners on October 19, 2021.

• Recommended approval of John & Sandra Monroe rezoning from Agriculture to Residential (3-2)
• Recommended approval of Michael & Heather Wochnick interim use permit for home extended business (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of proposed ordinance amendments (unanimous)
• Approved August 3, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will consider approving the 2022 preliminary levy and budget, set lake improvement district levies, and issue proclamations for Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Cybersecurity Awareness Month. The board will also hear reports from public health, social services, auditor, public works, and administrator.

• 2022 preliminary levy of $22,023,016 (2.06% increase) and budget of $54,140,418 (-0.48%)
• Lake Sullivan LID 2022 work plan and budget with levy at $100 per parcel
• Lake Shamineau LID 2022 work plan and budget with levy at $905 per parcel
• Proclamation for Domestic Violence Awareness Month (October 2021)
• Proclamation for National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (October 2021)

The County Board approved the November 5, 2021 tax-forfeited land sale list, which includes 25 parcels across several towns and cities. The list specifies minimum bids ranging from $25 to $750. Two parcels are restricted to adjoining landowners, and one parcel in Randall is offered to the municipality per MN Statute 282.01.

• Approved the tax-forfeited land sale list for November 5, 2021
• Set minimum bids for each parcel, ranging from $25 to $750
• Restricted the North Shore Lot 1 parcel in Pulaski to adjoining landowners only
• Restricted the Lafond's Addition parcel in Little Falls to adjoining landowners only
• Offered the Randall parcel to the municipality per MN Statute 282.01

Drainage Authority Board

The Morrison County Drainage Authority Board will consider the Engineer's Repair Report for Public Ditch 17, which recommends authorizing $40,000 in repairs to restore the ditch to its original alignment and function. The board will also approve minutes and handle other business.

• Consideration of Engineers Repair Report for Ditch 17
• Repair cost estimate: $40,000 total
• Ditch 17 is 4.6 miles long, established in 1906
• Repair includes restoring filled section in section 10 of Morrill Township
• Tree removal and culvert replacements included

The Morrison County Drainage Authority Board approved the minutes from its September 21, 2021 meeting and the Engineers Repair Report for Morrison County Public Ditch System 17. Both approvals were unanimous. The meeting was brief and adjourned at 10:25 a.m.

• Approved Drainage Authority Board minutes for September 21, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved Morrison County Public Ditch System 17 Engineers Repair Report (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment will consider three applications for variances. The Planning Commission has no agenda items for this meeting.

• Variance application for Timothy Backes / Shad DeGuiseppi regarding a retaining wall and grade & fill in Two Rivers Township
• Variance application for Robert & Carol Kasper at 35756 Logan Ln to add onto a non-conforming structure
• Variance application for Lowell & Lori Kruger at 2496 White Pine Ln to add onto a non-conforming structure

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment denied an after-the-fact variance for a retaining wall and grade/fill work in a bluff, and approved two variances to add onto non-conforming structures, one with conditions. The board also approved the September 14, 2021 minutes and adjourned.

• Denied after-the-fact variance for retaining wall and grade/fill in bluff (unanimous)
• Approved variance to add onto non-conforming structure at 35756 Logan Ln with conditions (4-1)
• Approved variance to add onto non-conforming structure at 2496 White Pine Ln with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved September 14, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners is meeting to hear departmental reports, approve county warrants, and consider a proclamation declaring National 4-H Week. The agenda includes routine administrative items such as approval of minutes and warrants, as well as reports from the Sheriff, Social Services, Public Health, and Public Works. No major policy decisions or public hearings are scheduled.

• Proclamation declaring October 3-9, 2021 as National 4-H Week
• Approval of county warrants totaling over $3.5 million for August and September
• Report from the Sheriff's office
• Report from Social Services and Public Health
• Public Works report

The Morrison County Board approved the 2022 preliminary levy of 2.06% and a preliminary budget of -0.48%, totaling $22,023,016 and $54,140,418 respectively. They also approved the 2022 preliminary levy for HRA at $40,000, the same as 2021. A public hearing on the 2022 fee schedule, with levy and budget discussion, was set for December 9 at 6:00 pm. The board approved warrants totaling $366,531.80 and various other routine items.

• Approved 2022 Preliminary Levy of 2.06% for Morrison County, totaling $22,023,016
• Approved 2022 Preliminary Budget of -0.48% for Morrison County, totaling $54,140,418
• Approved 2022 Preliminary Levy for HRA at $40,000, same as 2021
• Set public hearing for December 9 at 6:00 pm to discuss 2022 fee schedule, levy, and budget
• Approved County Board Warrants totaling $366,531.80 for payment
• Approved the Minnesota Family Investment Biennial Plan for 2022/2023
• Approved new position of Business Analyst/IT Planner at grade 25 for Public Health and Social Services
• Proclaimed October 3-9, 2021 as National 4-H Week in Morrison County

Drainage Authority Board

The Morrison County Drainage Authority Board is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several county drainage ditches, including an unauthorized outlet on Public Ditch 1, inspection reports for Ditches 18, 18-1, and 18-2, and an update on Ditch 17. The board will also consider authorizing a notice template for ditch benefits and receive general information updates. The agenda includes both decision items and discussion topics.

• Public Ditch 1 - Unauthorized Outlet
• Public Ditch 18, 18-1 and 18-2 Inspection Report
• Public Ditch 17 Update
• Authorize Notice of Ditch Benefit Template

The Morrison County Drainage Authority Board approved several actions, including authorizing the County Engineer to correct unauthorized ditch work on Public Ditch 1, directing the Auditor/Treasurer to solicit comments from property owners on repairs to PD-18, 18-1, and 18-2, and authorizing work with Rinke Noonan Law Firm to create a template for recording benefited land. The board also approved the July 20, 2021 minutes and received an update on slow progress for Ditch 17 repairs.

• Approved minutes for July 20, 2021 (unanimous)
• Authorized County Engineer to correct Paul Sachs ditch work creating unauthorized outlet into Public Ditch 1 (unanimous)
• Directed Auditor/Treasurer to solicit comments from benefitted property owners on repair of PD-18, 18-1, and 18-2 (unanimous)
• Authorized Auditor/Treasurer to work with Rinke Noonan Law Firm on template for recording benefited land (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will consider four variance requests regarding property setbacks, structure heights, and RV limits. The Planning Commission has no agenda items for this meeting.

• Troy & Rebecca Kapsner: After the Fact Variance for structure within bluff and side property line setback at 34126 Logan Ln
• Paul & Judith Mott Rev Living Trust: Variance to raise height of non-conforming garage at 2514 Lake Shore Dr
• Bruce Proell: After the Fact Variance for RV overage and wetland setback at 35954 Hoffman Beach Dr
• David Bell: After the Fact Variance for storage shed with living quarters height and size at 5539 320th St

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment held four variance hearings. It denied Troy & Rebecca Kapsner's after-the-fact variance to keep a shed within bluff and side property line setbacks (3-1). It approved Paul & Judith Mott's variance to raise a non-conforming garage height by 16 inches, with one condition (4-1). It denied Bruce Proell's after-the-fact variance to continue an overage of RVs and allow two RVs within a wetland setback (3-2). It approved David Bell's variance for a shed's height and size within a side setback (unanimous) but denied the variance to continue living quarters in the shed (unanimous).

• Denied Kapsner after-the-fact variance for shed in bluff/side setback (3-1)
• Approved Mott variance to raise non-conforming garage height by 16 inches, with one condition (4-1)
• Denied Proell after-the-fact variance for RV overage and wetland setback (3-2)
• Approved Bell variance for shed height and size within side setback (unanimous)
• Denied Bell variance to continue living quarters in shed (unanimous)
• Approved August 31, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the Great River Regional Library 2022 budget and a resolution authorizing Lutheran Social Service to administer the Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program. The agenda also includes routine reports from social services, public works, and the county administrator, plus approval of warrants and other administrative items.

• Great River Regional Library 2022 budget: Morrison County contribution $491,598, a decrease of $11,403 (-2.267%) from 2021
• Resolution authorizing Lutheran Social Service to administer FHPAP grant of up to $822,200 for Morrison County residents
• County board warrants totaling $323,335.16 for payment
• Public hearing on updating transportation projects eligible for Greater Minnesota Transportation Sales Tax funding
• Resolution requesting traffic investigation on CSAH 26 (Nature Road) in Little Rock

The Minnesota Housing board approved 20 FHPAP grants totaling $19,765,600, including $822,200 to Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota-Brainerd for a two-year term (Oct 1, 2021–Sep 30, 2023). Funding is contingent on due diligence and legislative appropriations. The minutes also include a June 10, 2021 LSS HOPE Housing meeting with partner updates, and a purchase of service contract with Nexus Family Healing for up to $160,000 for CIBS training and consulting.

• Approved FHPAP funding of $822,200 to Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota-Brainerd (term Oct 1, 2021–Sep 30, 2023).
• Approved 20 FHPAP proposals totaling $19,765,600 statewide.
• Noted mandatory due diligence session for grantees on Aug 9, 2021.
• Discussed partner updates at LSS HOPE Housing meeting (June 10, 2021), including RentHelpMN issues and eviction off-ramp bills.
• Reported hoteling program ended with 386 individuals served (Apr 20, 2020–Jun 7, 2021).
• Entered purchase of service contract with Nexus Family Healing for up to $160,000 for CIBS training and consulting (Sep 1, 2021–Dec 21, 2022).

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will consider two requests for variances regarding property setbacks. The Planning Commission has no agenda items for this meeting.

• Variance request for septic system setback at 12626 Great River Rd
• Variance request for deck setback at 34195 Aztec Rd

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment approved two variance requests. The first allowed a septic system within the Mississippi River setback at 12626 Great River Rd, with two conditions. The second allowed a deck within the county road setback at 34195 Aztec Rd, with one member opposed. Both decisions were made after public hearings and property viewings.

• Approved variance for septic system within Mississippi River setback at 12626 Great River Rd (unanimous, with two conditions)
• Approved variance for deck within county road setback at 34195 Aztec Rd (4-1, Dave Stish opposed)

County Board of Commissioners

The Board is reviewing a public hearing to update the list of projects eligible for funding through the Greater Minnesota Transportation Sales Tax. Additionally, officials are considering a request for a traffic engineering investigation on CSAH 26 in Little Rock.

• Public hearing to update eligible projects for Greater MN Transportation Sales and Use Tax
• Resolution requesting a traffic engineering investigation on CSAH 26 (Nature Road) between 260th Ave and 280th Ave
• Proposed $10,000 expansion of Belle Prairie Park disc golf course to 12 baskets
• Approval of interim County Administration team consisting of Brad Vold and Beth Hamlin
• Resolution to extend the Comprehensive Local Water Management Plan through December 31, 2025

The Morrison County Board approved a purchase of service contract with Nexus Family Healing for project management of the Region 5 Collaborative Intensive Bridging Services (CIBS) Project, effective September 1, 2021 through December 21, 2022, with payment not to exceed $80,000. The board also reviewed a proposal from Community Land Solutions, Inc. for enhanced County Surveyor services, but no action was recorded on this proposal in the minutes.

• Approved $80,000 contract with Nexus Family Healing for CIBS project management (term Sept 1, 2021 – Dec 21, 2022)
• Reviewed proposal from Community Land Solutions, Inc. for County Surveyor services (no action recorded)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will consider two variance requests regarding property use and setbacks. The Planning Commission has no agenda items for this meeting.

• Variance request for Type III septic system and dwelling density overage in Ripley Township (Gerald & Donna Pint/Brenda Isder)
• Variance request to place a home within animal holding area setbacks in Buckman Township (John & Lisa Wimmer/Louis Wimmer)

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment denied a variance request by Gerald & Donna Pint/Brenda Isder for a Type III septic system and dwelling density overage in Ripley Township, with all members voting in favor of denial. The board approved a variance request by John & Lisa Wimmer/Louis Wimmer to place a home within the setbacks of an animal holding area in Buckman Township, with all members voting in favor. Both decisions were made after public hearings and site visits.

• Denied variance for Type III septic system and dwelling density overage (unanimous)
• Approved variance to place home within animal holding area setbacks (unanimous)
• Approved June 3, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board approved an after-the-fact interim use permit for Michael and Jacleen Skroch to continue a maple syrup operation in an accessory building on their 20-acre property in Two Rivers Township. The permit includes four conditions, such as separating syrup wash water from bathroom waste and providing state licensing. The Planning Commission recommended approval with a 5-0 vote, and the board followed. The county also acknowledged its commitment to the LOGIS Group Insurance Program through 2024.

• Approved after-the-fact interim use permit for maple syrup business (5-0)
• Required separation of maple syrup wash water from bathroom waste
• Required proof of state licensing for the syrup operation
• Permit terminates when Skroch family members no longer own the property
• Acknowledged commitment to LOGIS Group Insurance Program through 2024

Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment are meeting to review two specific property applications. The body will consider an interim use permit for a business and a variance for a structure.

• Interim Use Permit for Michael & Jacleen Skroch at 1242 150th Ave for a maple syrup business
• Variance request for Troy & Rebecca Kapsner at 34126 Logan Lane for a shed within a bluff
• Approval of June 15, 2021 Board of Adjustment minutes

Planning Commission

The Morrison County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will hold a joint meeting to consider two after-the-fact applications. The Planning Commission will review an Interim Use Permit for a home-based maple syrup processing business, while the Board of Adjustment will consider a variance for a shed built within a bluff. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and new business.

• After-the-fact Interim Use Permit for Michael & Jacleen Skroch, 1242 150th Ave, Bowlus, for maple syrup processing in Two Rivers Township
• After-the-fact Variance for Troy & Rebecca Kapsner, 34126 Logan Lane, Hillman, for a shed within a bluff in Pulaski Township
• Approval of June 15, 2021 minutes for Board of Adjustment

The Morrison County Planning Commission held a public hearing and unanimously recommended approval of an after-the-fact interim use permit for Michael and Jacleen Skroch's home-based maple syrup processing business at 1242 150th Ave, Bowlus, MN. The recommendation includes conditions and will go before the Morrison County Board of Commissioners on August 10, 2021. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was otherwise procedural.

• Recommended approval of after-the-fact interim use permit for maple syrup business (unanimous)
• Application forwarded to County Board for final decision on August 10, 2021

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular meeting on July 27, 2021, with a tentative agenda that includes routine reports from county departments, a proclamation for County Staff Appreciation Day, and presentations from executive search firms. The board will also consider action items such as liquor license approvals and a software purchase for the Sheriff's, Attorney's, and Social Services departments.

• Proclamation declaring July 27, 2021 as County Staff Appreciation Day
• Consideration of 1-day temporary on-sale liquor licenses for Lincoln Scandia Valley Lions (Scandia Valley Summerfest) and Randall Cushing Lions Club (Cushing Car Show)
• Approval of 2021 New Lodging Establishment License for Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls (Mary Hall) at $217
• Approval of Winscribe Software purchase for Sheriff's Office ($14,108), County Attorney's Office ($6,412), and Social Services ($2,625)
• Presentation by M&A Executive Search and DDA Executive Search

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners approved a Joint Powers Agreement with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety's Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) for access to the Criminal Justice Data Communications Network (CJDN). The agreement, with an annual fee of $780, also includes a Court Data Services Subscriber Amendment for accessing court records. The Sheriff's June monthly report was presented as a discussion item.

• Approved Joint Powers Agreement with MN BCA for CJDN access (SWIFT #195898)
• Approved Court Data Services Subscriber Amendment to CJDN agreement
• Received Sheriff's June Monthly Report as discussion item

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will consider three requests for variances related to property setbacks and building density. The Planning Commission has no agenda items for this meeting.

• Variance request for animal holding area at 10854 N Highway 238
• Variance request for animal holding and manure storage areas at 17646 133rd St
• Variance request to exceed allowable density at 31504 Azure Rd

Drainage Authority Board

The Morrison County Drainage Authority Board is meeting to review responses to repair work for County Ditch 17, following a June decision to move forward with an engineer's inspection and collect comments from benefited property owners. The agenda includes only this item plus routine approval of minutes and other business.

• Review responses to Ditch 17 repair
• Approval of June 8, 2021 minutes
• Owner survey shows $15,798.52 in estimated costs from responding owners (39.48% of benefit amount)
• Ditch 17 repair total estimated at $40,000.00
• Multiple owners opposed or called with questions on repair

The Morrison County Drainage Authority Board approved the minutes from its June 8, 2021 meeting and authorized the County Engineer to proceed with repairs for Ditch #17. The meeting was held on July 20, 2021, and all motions passed unanimously.

• Approved the Drainage Authority Board minutes for June 8, 2021
• Authorized the County Engineer to move forward with repairs for Ditch #17

Planning Commission

The Morrison County Planning Commission has no agenda items for this meeting. The Board of Adjustment will consider three variance applications, including requests for animal holding areas within setbacks and a density expansion for non-conforming structures.

• Betty Czech Revoc Trust variance for animal holding area within road right-of-way setback, 10854 N Highway 238, Little Falls
• Park View Acres LLC variance for animal holding and manure storage areas within property line setback, 17646 133rd St, Little Falls
• B & H Sams Inc. variance to exceed allowable density through expansion of non-conforming structures, 31504 Azure Rd, Cushing
• Approval of June 15, 2021 minutes for Board of Adjustment

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular meeting on July 13, 2021, with a tentative agenda that includes reports from the Sheriff, Social Services, Public Health, Land Services, IT, Auditor, Public Works, and Administrator. The board will also consider a request to fill vacancies for a full-time Correctional Officer and a full-time Deputy, and a resolution to enter into a grant agreement with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for the Toward Zero Deaths program. The agenda is largely procedural, with most items being routine reports and approvals.

• Sheriff's Office requests approval to fill vacancies for a full-time Correctional Officer and a full-time Deputy
• Public Health requests resolution to enter into a grant agreement with MN Dept. of Public Safety for Toward Zero Deaths (Oct 1, 2021 - Sep 30, 2022)
• Social Services to report on MFIP and Childcare Assistance programs
• Approval of county board warrants and auditor warrants (amounts not specified in agenda)
• Various department reports (Sheriff, Social Services, Public Health, Land Services, IT, Auditor, Public Works, Administrator)

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners approved a five-year lease with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for a watercraft cleaning station at the Fish Trap Lake Public Water Access Site. The lease is effective June 1, 2021, through May 31, 2026, with no fee. The county is responsible for maintenance, utilities, insurance, and compliance with invasive species controls.

• Approved 5-year lease (LMIS010536) for watercraft cleaning station at Fish Trap Lake (no fee)
• County to maintain station and equipment, including winterization and trash collection
• County to procure liability insurance ($500,000 per individual, $1,500,000 per occurrence)
• County to provide usage data to DNR by December 31 each year

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on a revised ordinance regulating tobacco and related devices, then consider approving it. The board will also receive reports from the sheriff, social services, public health, land services, extension, auditor, and administrator, and approve county board warrants.

• Public hearing on revised Tobacco Ordinance
• Sheriff's report
• Social services report
• Public health report
• Land services report

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on June 22, 2021, to consider a revised tobacco ordinance. The proposed ordinance would regulate the sale, possession, and use of tobacco and related products, including electronic delivery devices, in areas of the county without active municipal regulation. No final action on the ordinance is recorded in the minutes; the hearing was the only substantive item.

• Held public hearing on proposed revision of Morrison County Tobacco Ordinance (no vote recorded)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will review a variance application for a Type III septic system on a newly created parcel. The Planning Commission has no items on its agenda for this meeting.

• Variance application for Christopher & Jennifer Burkhard for a Type III septic in Morrill Township (pt of the NW ¼, Section 34, Township 39, Range 29)

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment approved a variance request by Christopher and Jennifer Burkhard to install a Type III septic system on a newly created parcel in Morrill Township. The decision was made after a public hearing and a site viewing by board members. The board also approved the minutes from previous meetings and announced that future meetings will be held in person starting in July.

• Approved the variance request for a Type III septic system for the Burkhard property.
• Approved the Planning Commission minutes from May 25 and June 1.
• Approved the Board of Adjustment minutes from May 25 and June 1.
• Adjourned the meeting.

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will consider several routine reports and actions, including awarding an airport pavement rehabilitation contract, approving licenses and permits, and transferring funds for the Sheriff Annex. The meeting includes reports from various departments and a list of warrants totaling $474,154.60.

• Award airfield pavement rehabilitation to Lot Pros, Inc. for $62,173, contingent on state grant
• Approve 2021 seasonal establishment renewal licenses (Ridge Rib & Steakhouse $708, Pine Grove Zoo $279)
• Approve 1-day temporary on-sale liquor license for Pierz Freedom Fest at Genola Ball Fields
• Approve rezone of parcel in Little Falls Township from Agriculture/Residential to Residential
• Transfer $562,747 from Sheriff Assigned Fund to Building Fund for Sheriff Annex

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners approved two conditional use permits for feedlot expansions. Kevin Vetsch received approval to expand a dairy feedlot to a Tier II operation (362.5 animal units) with three conditions. Daniel Sobiech received approval to establish a Tier III swine feedlot (720 animal units) with five conditions. Both approvals were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved conditional use permit for Kevin Vetsch's Tier II dairy feedlot expansion (5-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for Daniel Sobiech's Tier III swine feedlot (5-0)

Drainage Authority Board

The Morrison County Drainage Authority Board will meet to discuss an engineer's inspection report on Public Ditch 17, which is out of repair due to vegetation and sediment. The board may authorize a repair report and seek input from affected property owners. The agenda also includes approval of minutes and other business.

• Engineer's inspection report for Ditch 17 recommends authorizing a repair report
• Ditch 17 is 4.6 miles long, established in 1906, and choked with vegetation and sediment
• Previous meeting approved final payments: Ditch 16 $64,207.32, Ditch 11 $26,398.99

The Morrison County Drainage Authority Board approved moving forward on the Engineer's Inspection Report for Ditch 17 and authorized the County Auditor/Treasurer to collect comments from benefited property owners. The board also unanimously approved the minutes from its February 16, 2021 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved moving forward on Engineer's Inspection Report for Ditch 17 (unanimous)
• Authorized County Auditor/Treasurer to collect comments from benefited property owners (unanimous)
• Approved Drainage Authority Board minutes for February 16, 2021 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment are meeting to consider two land-use applications. The body will review a request for a conditional use permit and a request for a variance.

• Conditional Use Permit for Kevin & Lynelle Vetsch to expand to a Tier II feedlot at 3128 Aardvark Rd
• Variance for Joram Manka to add onto a non-conforming structure at 3018 150th Ave

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment approved a variance for Joram and Maria Manka to add onto a non-conforming structure at 3018 150th Ave, Bowlus, MN. The variance was amended to ensure the deck does not encroach closer than 117 feet from the river. The vote was unanimous. The application will also need approval from the Mississippi Headwaters Board.

• Approved amended variance for Manka property (5-0)
• Amended variance to require deck not encroach closer than 117 feet from river

Planning Commission

The Morrison County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will meet virtually to consider a conditional use permit for a feedlot expansion and a variance for a non-conforming structure. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and other routine business.

• Conditional Use Permit for Kevin & Lynelle Vetsch to expand to a Tier II feedlot at 3128 Aardvark Rd, Burtrum, in Elmdale Township
• Variance request by Joram Manka to add onto a non-conforming structure at 3018 150th Ave, Bowlus, in Two Rivers Township
• Approval of May 25, 2021 minutes for both Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment

The Morrison County Planning Commission held a public hearing and recommended approval of a conditional use permit for Kevin & Lynelle Vetsch to expand to a Tier II feedlot at 3128 Aardvark Rd, Elmdale Township. The motion passed unanimously. The application will go before the Morrison County Board of Commissioners on June 8, 2021. No other substantive decisions were made; minutes approval was postponed due to incorrect packets.

• Recommended approval of CUP for Tier II feedlot expansion (unanimous)
• Postponed approval of May 25 minutes due to wrong minutes in packets

Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment are meeting to review a conditional use permit for a hog feedlot and two property variance requests. The board will also consider the approval of minutes from May 11, 2021.

• Conditional Use Permit for a Tier III hog feedlot at 11498 60th Ave, Swanville
• After the Fact Variance for a patio and retaining walls at 1532 Lincoln Hills Circle, Cushing
• Variance for a 1000-gallon septic holding tank at 31115 Fish Trap Lake Dr, Cushing

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment approved two variance requests. The first granted John and Michelle LeBlanc an after-the-fact variance to keep a patio and retaining walls within the bluff impact zone, with one condition. The second approved a variance for the Carl Darwin Lundeen Trust to install a 1000-gallon septic holding tank within the setback to a side property line. Both votes were unanimous.

• Approved LeBlanc after-the-fact variance for patio and retaining walls (unanimous, with one condition)
• Approved Lundeen Trust variance for 1000-gallon septic holding tank within side setback (unanimous)
• Approved May 11, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Morrison County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will meet virtually to consider a conditional use permit for a Tier III hog feedlot and two variance requests. The Planning Commission will review Daniel Sobiech's application for a hog feedlot in Swanville Township. The Board of Adjustment will consider an after-the-fact variance for a patio and retaining walls in a bluff impact zone, and a variance for a septic holding tank with reduced capacity and setback in Scandia Valley Township. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the May 11 meeting.

• Conditional Use Permit for Tier III hog feedlot at 11498 60th Ave, Swanville, in Swanville Township
• After-the-fact variance for patio and retaining walls in bluff impact zone at 1532 Lincoln Hills Circle, Cushing
• Variance for 1000-gallon septic holding tank within side setback at 31115 Fish Trap Lake Dr, Cushing
• Approval of May 11, 2021 minutes for both boards

The Morrison County Planning Commission held a public hearing and unanimously recommended approval of Daniel Sobiech's conditional use permit for a Tier III hog feedlot in Swanville Township, with conditions including a water catch basin and 50-foot grass buffer. The application will go before the Morrison County Board of Commissioners on June 8, 2021. The commission also approved the May 11 minutes and allowed Land Services staff to handle secretarial duties for both the Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment.

• Recommended approval of Tier III hog feedlot CUP for Daniel Sobiech (unanimous)
• Approved May 11, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Allowed Land Services staff to complete secretarial duties for Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment (unanimous)

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners is meeting to consider several proclamations, receive departmental reports, and act on routine items such as licenses, grants, and warrants. The agenda includes a report from Camp Ripley and a discussion on the Council on Aging, but no major policy decisions are listed.

• Proclamation declaring May 16-22, 2021 as Emergency Medical Services Week
• Proclamation declaring May 2021 as Foster Care Month
• Camp Ripley report on economic impact and construction projects
• Approval of county board warrants totaling $430,905.63
• Consideration of interim County Recorder appointment

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners approved a $562,747 transfer from the Sheriff Assigned Fund balance to the Building Fund for Sheriff Annex costs, and approved full implementation of Paycom HRIS software. The board also approved several resolutions supporting watershed planning, rezoned a parcel in Little Falls Township, and approved various licenses and permits, including for the Pierz Freedom Fest event.

• Approved $562,747 transfer to Building Fund for Sheriff Annex (unanimous)
• Approved full Paycom HRIS software implementation (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2021-051 rezoning parcel in Little Falls Township (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2021-048 supporting One Watershed, One Plan for Mississippi River Sartell and St. Cloud (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 Seasonal Establishment Renewal Licenses for Ridge Rib & Steakhouse and Pine Grove Zoo (unanimous)
• Approved 1-Day Temporary On-Sale Liquor License for Pierz Freedom Fest (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of 2 am Liquor License for Main Gate Bar & Grill (unanimous)
• Approved warrants totaling $474,154.60 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment are meeting to review land use requests. The body will consider one rezoning application and two variance requests for property additions.

• Rezoning request for 16772 Highway 27 from Residential and Agriculture to Rural Residential
• After the Fact Variance request for 5582 Concord Rd to add onto a non-conforming structure
• Variance request for 2052 Fish Trap Lake Dr to add onto a replaced cabin

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment denied both variance requests at its May 11, 2021 meeting. Kevin and Jodi Olson's after-the-fact variance to add onto a non-conforming structure was denied unanimously. Brian and Kristine Flanagan's variance to add onto a replaced cabin was also denied unanimously. Both decisions were made after discussion of the properties' non-conforming status and shoreland impact.

• Denied Olson after-the-fact variance to add onto non-conforming structure (5-0)
• Denied Flanagan variance to add onto replaced cabin (5-0)
• Approved April 27, 2021 minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Morrison County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual meeting on May 11, 2021. The Planning Commission will consider a rezoning application for a property on Highway 27 in Little Falls, and the Board of Adjustment will hear two variance requests in Scandia Valley Township. The agenda also includes approval of prior meeting minutes and routine business items.

• Rezone request by Zimmerman 1991 Family Trust / Dave Becker for property at 16772 Highway 27, Little Falls, from Residential and Agriculture to Rural Residential
• After-the-fact variance request by Kevin & Jodi Olson for property at 5582 Concord Rd, Cushing (Lot 5, Birchdale Knolls)
• Variance request by Brian Flanagan for property at 2052 Fish Trap Lake Dr, Cushing (Lot 5, Lake Shore Acres)

The Morrison County Planning Commission adopted its by-laws and recommended approval of a rezone request by David & Irene Becker to change a portion of their property from Residential and Agriculture to Residential, allowing the home to be split from the land. The recommendation will go to the Morrison County Board of Commissioners on May 18, 2021. The commission also approved the April 13, 2021 minutes.

• Adopted by-laws as presented (all in favor)
• Recommended approval of rezone for Becker property (all in favor)
• Approved April 13, 2021 minutes (all in favor)

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will meet to consider several items, including proclaiming May as Mental Health Awareness Month, supporting One Watershed, One Plan planning efforts for local watersheds, and receiving reports from various departments. The agenda also includes routine approvals of minutes, warrants, and reports.

• Proclamation for Mental Health Awareness Month
• Resolution to support One Watershed, One Plan planning boundaries for Mississippi River Sartell and St. Cloud watersheds
• Resolution to support Mississippi River St. Cloud One Watershed, One Plan project
• Resolution to support Mississippi River Brainerd One Watershed, One Plan project
• Various departmental reports (Sheriff, Social Services, Public Health, Land Services, etc.)

The Morrison County Board appointed the Chief Deputy Recorder as Interim County Recorder effective May 16, 2021, at Grade 32, Step 1, after two earlier motions failed. The board also approved a $200,000 contribution to the Lake Shamineau High Water Project, a DMV staff increase, and various licenses and grants.

• Appointed Chief Deputy Recorder as Interim County Recorder at Grade 32, Step 1 (3-2)
• Failed to set public hearing on potential County Recorder appointment (2-3)
• Failed to appoint Interim County Recorder at Grade 28 (2-3)
• Approved $200,000 for Lake Shamineau High Water Project (unanimous)
• Approved DMV part-time staff going full-time May-Dec 2021 (4-1)
• Approved $430,905.63 in county warrants (unanimous)
• Approved $32,500 for Fish Trap Lake AIS waterless cleaning station (unanimous)
• Approved new annual license for Hardy's RV Resort (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will review a variance application from Louis and Cathy Kowalczyk regarding setbacks for an accessory structure. The Planning Commission has no agenda items scheduled for this meeting.

• Variance request: 9003 Rose Haven Blvd, Little Falls (accessory structure setback)

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment denied a variance request from Louis and Cathy Kowalczyk to build an accessory structure that would not meet doubled setbacks to the river and side property line. The denial was unanimous. The board also discussed by-laws and approved the March 13, 2021 minutes as corrected.

• Denied variance for accessory structure at 9003 Rose Haven Blvd (unanimous)
• Approved March 13, 2021 minutes as corrected (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board will consider two land-use permits recommended by the Planning Commission: a conditional use permit for a 190-foot Verizon Wireless telecommunications tower in Lakin Township, and an after-the-fact interim use permit for a custom meat processing facility in Pike Creek Township. The board will also issue proclamations for Crime Victims' Rights Week and Vulnerable Adult Abuse Awareness Month, and receive reports from county departments.

• Conditional use permit for 190-foot Verizon tower, Lakin Township (PID 14.0106.000)
• After-the-fact interim use permit for meat processing facility, Pike Creek Township (PID 22.0255.000)
• Proclamation: Crime Victims' Rights Week, April 18-24, 2021
• Proclamation: Vulnerable Adult Abuse Awareness Month, May 2021
• County board warrants and department reports

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners approved a conditional use permit for a 190-foot Verizon Wireless telecommunications tower in Lakin Township, despite public opposition. They also approved an after-the-fact interim use permit for a home-based meat processing business in Pike Creek Township, with conditions including septic system evaluation and waste disposal requirements. Additionally, the board entered into a Local Bridge Replacement Program grant agreement with MnDOT for bridge work on CSAH 1 and 100th Ave.

• Approved conditional use permit for Verizon Wireless 190-ft tower in Lakin Township
• Approved after-the-fact interim use permit for Hanebuth meat processing with 6 conditions (5-0)
• Approved MnDOT Local Bridge Replacement Program grant agreement for $209,899.38
• Proclaimed National Crime Victims' Rights Week April 18-24, 2021

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board will consider awarding a $2,700,112.45 road construction contract to C&L Excavating Inc. for work on CSAH 39 and CSAH 43 in Pierz, including sewer, water, street, and trail improvements. The agenda also includes routine reports from Public Works and the Administrator, plus approval of the meeting minutes.

• Award Contract 300 to C&L Excavating Inc. for $2,700,112.45 for CSAH 39 & 43 reconstruction in Pierz
• Public Works report on bids for SP 049-591-005, SAP 049-639-014 & SAP 049-643-017
• Administrator's report
• Approval of county board minutes from March 23, 2021
• Agenda additions/deletions

The board approved the reconstruction project for Pierz, covering sanitary sewer, water main, storm sewer, street, sidewalk, bituminous pavement, and multi-use trail work. The approval includes specific state project numbers and locations along CSAH 43 and CSAH 39.

• Approved SP 049-591-005, SAP 049-639-014, SAP 049-643-017 for Pierz infrastructure reconstruction

Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will hold elections for officers. The agendas include several applications regarding telecommunications, meat processing, feedlots, and a gymnasium.

• Conditional Use Permit for a 190-foot telecommunications tower in Lakin Township
• Interim Use Permit for a meat processing facility at 15198 Davenport Rd
• Variance for feedlot setback at 4731 Cable Rd in Swanville Township
• Variance to establish a Tier II feedlot at 3128 Aardvark Rd in Elmdale Township
• Variance to construct a 35-foot-high gymnasium at 1287 Acorn Rd

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment approved variances for a feedlot separation, a Tier II feedlot, and a gymnasium construction, while denying a variance for a feedlot setback. All votes were unanimous. The board also elected officers and approved the previous meeting's minutes.

• Elected Dave Stish as Chair, Marvin Trettel as Vice-Chair, and Clint Kathrein as Secretary (all unanimous)
• Denied Shannon & Leah Johnston's variance to separate feedlot from home (unanimous)
• Approved Kevin & Lynelle Vetsch's variance to establish a Tier II feedlot (unanimous)
• Approved Cedar Lake Baptist Assembly's variance to construct a gymnasium (unanimous)
• Approved March 2, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Morrison County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will hold a joint virtual meeting. The Planning Commission will consider a conditional use permit for a 190-foot telecommunications tower and an after-the-fact interim use permit for a meat processing facility. The Board of Adjustment will hear three variance requests, including feedlot setbacks and a gymnasium height variance. The meeting also includes election of officers and approval of minutes.

• Conditional Use Permit for 190-foot telecommunications tower (Five Starr Ranch LLC / Cellco Partnership, Lakin Township)
• After-the-fact Interim Use Permit for meat processing facility (Peter & Diane Hanebuth, 15198 Davenport Rd, Little Falls)
• Variance to separate feedlot from home (Shannon & Leah Johnston, 4731 Cable Rd, Swanville)
• Variance to establish Tier II feedlot under 75 acres (Kevin & Lynelle Vetsch, 3128 Aardvark Rd, Burtrum)
• Variance to construct 35-foot-high gymnasium (Cedar Lake Baptist Assembly, 1287 Acorn Rd, Burtrum)

The Morrison County Planning Commission recommended approval of a conditional use permit for a 190-foot telecommunications tower for Cellco Partnership/Verizon in Lakin Township, despite public opposition. They also recommended approval of an after-the-fact interim use permit for a meat processing facility in Pike Creek Township, with added conditions. Both recommendations will go to the Morrison County Board of Commissioners on April 20, 2021.

• Recommended approval of CUP for 190-foot Verizon tower (all in favor)
• Recommended approval of after-the-fact IUP for meat processing facility with conditions (all in favor)
• Approved March 22, 2021 minutes (all in favor)
• Elected Clint Katherine as Chair, Dave Stish as Vice-Chair, Marvin Trettel as Secretary

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will meet to consider several proclamations, including Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Distraction-Free Driving Month, and Public Health Week. They will also receive reports from various departments and may take action on routine items such as warrants and contracts. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions listed.

• Proclamations for Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Distraction-Free Driving Month, and Public Health Week
• Consideration of road construction contracts (e.g., Contract 297 to Knife River Corporation for $1,935,958.00)
• Approval of county board warrants totaling $473,023.53
• Approval of a new mobile food unit license for Motogrub (fees $530)
• Approval of a K-9 replacement for Rocky

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners approved two conditional use permits on April 6, 2021. The first allows Hines Family Trust/Donovan McCain to construct a 190-foot telecommunications tower for Verizon Wireless on an 80-acre parcel southeast of Crookneck Lake. The second allows Stone Creek LLC to establish a Tier III swine feedlot (651-1,000 animal units) on an 80-acre parcel in Buckman Township, with four conditions including a tree buffer.

• Approved a conditional use permit for a 190-foot telecommunications tower for Verizon Wireless on an 80-acre parcel southeast of Crookneck Lake.
• Approved a conditional use permit for a Tier III swine feedlot (651-1,000 animal units) for Stone Creek LLC in Buckman Township.
• Attached four conditions to the feedlot permit, including abiding by local/state law, notifying road authority during manure hauling, following odor/stormwater plans, and planting a tree buffer designed by the SWCD.
• The feedlot approval was recommended by the Planning Commission with a 5-0 vote.

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss and potentially approve several items, including a $13,000 implementation fee for the Paycom Human Resource Information System, a K-9 replacement for the Sheriff's Office, and reports from various departments. The board will also hear a presentation on MnCHOICES activities and consider a legislative call with state representatives.

• Approve Paycom HR system implementation fee of $13,000
• K-9 replacement for Sheriff's Office
• Great River Regional Library report
• Legislative call with Representative Kresha and Senator Gazelka
• MnCHOICES assessment activities report

The Morrison County Board approved four road construction contracts, including three to Knife River Corporation for over $5.7 million and one to Sir Lines-A-Lot for pavement marking. They also approved a $13,000 HR system fee, a K-9 replacement, licenses, a raffle permit, and warrants totaling $473,023.53.

• Approved PayCom HR system implementation fee of $13,000.
• Approved K-9 replacement for Sheriff's Office.
• Approved consumption and display permit renewal for Ramey store (April 1, 2021 – March 31, 2021).
• Approved new mobile food unit license for Motogrub (May–September 2021).
• Approved Resolution #2021-027 for Pheasants Forever raffle on Sept 17, 2021.
• Approved warrants totaling $473,023.53 for March 25, 2021.
• Awarded Contract 297 to Knife River Corp for $1,935,958.00.
• Awarded Contract 296 to Knife River Corp for $2,114,595.11 (contingent on MnDOT approval).

Planning Commission

The Morrison County Planning Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting virtually. The main business is reviewing two conditional use permit applications: one for a 190-foot telecommunications tower in Scandia Valley Township and another to expand a feedlot to Tier III status in Buckman Township. The agenda also includes approval of the January 25, 2021 minutes, correspondence, and old/new business items.

• Conditional Use Permit for 190' telecommunications tower by Hines Family Trust/Donovan McCain, Scandia Valley Township (no property address)
• Conditional Use Permit for Tier III feedlot expansion by Stone Creek LLC, 27800 83rd St, Pierz, Buckman Township
• Approval of January 25, 2021 meeting minutes

The Morrison County Planning Commission held a public hearing and recommended approval of two conditional use permits: a 190-foot telecommunications tower for the Hines Family Trust in Scandia Valley Township, and a Tier III feedlot expansion for Stone Creek LLC in Buckman Township. Both recommendations will go before the Morrison County Board of Commissioners on April 6, 2021. The commission also approved the January 25, 2021 meeting minutes.

• Recommended approval of Hines Family Trust conditional use permit for 190-ft telecom tower (all in favor)
• Recommended approval of Stone Creek LLC conditional use permit for Tier III feedlot expansion with conditions (all in favor)
• Approved January 25, 2021 meeting minutes (all in favor)

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will review reports from social services, public health, corrections, and public works, and vote on several administrative items. Key actions include approving a $644,850 relief grant program, a new human resource information system, and replacing a public health nurse and other staff positions.

• Approve $644,850 Morrison County Relief Grant Program (Resolution #2021-022)
• Approve Paycom Human Resource Information System
• Replace Maternal Child Health/Public Health Nurse position
• Approve raffle permit for Mary of Lourdes School at Falls Ballroom, May 14, 2021
• Approve final payment of $25,241.99 to Arnzen Construction for Sheriff Annex Project

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners approved several routine items, including replacing a Public Health Nurse, accepting a donation, approving a raffle permit for Mary of Lourdes School, and replacing a Land Records Specialist. They also approved the March 9, 2021 warrants for payment. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural.

• Approved replacing a Public Health Nurse for Maternal Child Health and Disease Prevention and Control.
• Accepted the Hamlin Family Donation.
• Approved Resolution #2021-024 for Mary of Lourdes School to hold a raffle at the Falls Ballroom on May 14, 2021.
• Approved replacing the Land Records Specialist position in the Auditor-Treasurer's Office (Grade 21, full-time).
• Approved the list of County Board Warrants for March 9, 2021, for payment.

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will meet on March 2, 2021, to review and approve the 2021 AIS Partnership Grant recommendations for local lakes, and to consider a resolution of support for Pulaski Township's LRIP grant application for Logan Lane. The agenda also includes routine reports from Land Services, Public Works, and the Administrator, as well as appointments to the Planning Commission.

• Approve 2021 AIS Partnership Grants totaling $50,000 to local lake associations
• Authorize resolution of support for Pulaski Township LRIP grant for Logan Lane
• Appoint five members to the Planning Commission/Board of Adjustments
• Authorize preliminary work for Trailhead Parking Lot at Belle Prairie Park
• Approve warrants totaling $427,942.29 for February 18, 2021

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the 2021 Morrison County Relief Grant Program, distributing a total of $644,850 to businesses and nonprofits affected by COVID-19, with payments issued on March 4, 2021. The board also approved final payment of $25,241.99 to Arnzen Construction for the Sheriff Annex Project, established a Merit System of Personnel via Resolution #2021-023, and made appointments to the Planning Commission/Board of Adjustments with a $225 monthly stipend. Additionally, the board authorized a resolution of support for Pulaski Township's LRIP grant application for Logan Lane and approved preliminary work for the Trailhead Parking Lot at Belle Prairie Park.

• Approved the 2021 AIS grants to local lakes as recommended by the AIS Partnership Grant Committee.
• Approved appointments to the Planning Commission/Board of Adjustments with a $225 monthly stipend, effective April 1, 2021.
• Authorized Resolution #2021-021 supporting Pulaski Township's LRIP grant application for Logan Lane and the sponsorship agreement.
• Authorized the Department of Public Works to conduct preliminary work for the Trailhead Parking Lot at Belle Prairie Park.
• Approved final payment of $25,241.99 to Arnzen Construction for the Sheriff Annex Project.
• Approved Resolution #2021-023 establishing a Merit System of Personnel and updating Personnel Policies.
• Approved Resolution #2021-022 for the Morrison County Relief Grant Program with a total distribution of $644,850.
• Approved the minutes from the February 16, 2021 meeting and the agenda as presented.

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will review several variance applications regarding landscaping, structure additions, and barn construction. The agenda also includes the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Variance for rock landscaping and patio at 30532 Birch Acres Rd, Cushing
• Variance to add onto a non-conforming structure at 24281 Pine View Rd, Pierz
• Variance to construct a barn within the dwelling setback at 11658 State Highway 238, Royalton

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment denied a variance for Robert & Carol Wenner's after-the-fact rock landscaping and retaining wall in the shore impact zone, and denied a variance for Janet Holtz to construct a barn within a setback. The board approved a variance for Gretchen Sankovitz Rev. Trust to add onto a non-conforming structure, with conditions.

• Denied after-the-fact variance for rock landscaping, retaining wall, boulder barrier, and patio in shore impact zone (unanimous)
• Approved variance to add onto non-conforming structure at 24281 Pine View Rd, with conditions (3-1)
• Denied variance to construct barn within setback at 11658 State Highway 238 (unanimous)
• Approved February 2, 2021 minutes with correction (unanimous)

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the sheriff's office drone policy, as required by statute. The board will also receive reports from the sheriff, social services, public health, land services, extension, and public works, and consider several routine items including warrants, licenses, and grant distributions.

• Public hearing on use of unmanned aerial systems (drones) by sheriff's office
• Consideration of Conditional Use Permit for Tier III hog feedlot for Donald & Debra Hays
• Approval of 2021 Annual Establishment Licenses for Patrick's ($1,195) and Backdraft Barbecue ($293 + $163)
• Approval of final payments totaling $122,963.01 to Gustafson Mechanical, McDowall Company, and Johnson Controls
• Approval of warrants totaling $371,076.61

The minutes contain only an exhibit with an engineer's estimate for pavement markings on CR 78/286 (SP 005-070-008), showing a total estimated cost of $54,695. No formal decisions or votes are recorded in the provided text.

Drainage Authority Board

The Morrison County Drainage Authority Board will meet to approve final payments for Public Ditch 16 and Public Ditch 11, and review invoicing and special assessment processes. The agenda also includes approval of prior minutes and other business. The meeting is scheduled for February 16, 2021, at the County Board Room in Little Falls.

• Approve final payment for Public Ditch 16 and Public Ditch 11
• Process review of invoicing and special assessments
• Approval of minutes from previous meeting
• Other business

The Morrison County Drainage Authority Board approved final payments for Ditch 16 ($64,207.32) and Ditch 11 ($26,398.99), both unanimously. The board also approved the minutes from the September 22, 2020 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved final payment for Ditch 16 in the amount of $64,207.32 (unanimous)
• Approved final payment for Ditch 11 in the amount of $26,398.99 (unanimous)
• Approved Drainage Authority Board minutes for September 22, 2020 (unanimous)

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board will consider a conditional use permit for Donald and Debra Hays to build a Tier III swine feedlot with 720 animal units on a 120-acre tract in Leigh and Granite Townships. The board will also hear reports on energy assistance funds and approve annual establishment licenses for two food businesses. The meeting includes routine reports from county departments and approval of warrants.

• Conditional Use Permit for Tier III hog feedlot (720 animal units) for Donald & Debra Hays
• Report on Energy Assistance Funds used Oct-Dec 2020
• Annual Establishment Licenses: Patrick's ($1,195) and Backdraft Barbecue ($293 + $163)
• County Board Warrants totaling $1,716,184.82 for January 2021
• Jail security upgrade approved at prior meeting: $61,875 to Stanley Convergent Security Solutions

The Morrison County Board approved a conditional use permit for Donald and Debra Hayes to construct a Tier III swine feedlot with 720 animal units on their 120-acre property in Leigh and Granite Townships. The approval includes four conditions related to compliance with laws, road notification, adherence to management plans, and manure cleanout notification. The board also approved tax abatements for nine properties damaged by fire, flood, or wind in 2020, and received a $150,000 state grant for bridge repair on the Soo Line Recreational Trail.

• Approved conditional use permit for 720-animal-unit swine feedlot (5-0)
• Approved tax abatement for Noel & Ann Guerard, $888 credit
• Approved tax abatement for Dennis George, $1,405 credit
• Approved tax abatement for Russel Kuschel, $361 credit
• Approved tax abatement for Jesse & Jill Kylander, $547 credit
• Approved tax abatement for Richard & Mavis Thelen, $153 credit
• Approved tax abatement for Todd & Nicole Robinson, $189 credit
• Approved tax abatement for Debra Walburn, $138 credit

Board of Adjustment

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment will meet to consider three applications for variances regarding property setbacks. The board will also review the minutes from the January 5, 2021 meeting.

• Variance request for detached garage expansion at 33705 East Shamineau Dr
• Variance request for shed construction at 31083 Fish Trap Lake Ct
• Variance request for dwelling construction at 30269 22nd Ave

Planning Commission

The Morrison County Planning Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting, elect officers, and consider a conditional use permit for a Tier III hog feedlot. The meeting will be held virtually via Microsoft Teams.

• Election of officers
• Conditional Use Permit for Tier III hog feedlot by Donald & Debra Hayes at 36305 203rd St, Hillman, MN
• Approval of December 28, 2020 minutes

The Morrison County Planning Commission held a public hearing and recommended approval of a conditional use permit for Donald & Debra Hayes to establish a Tier III hog feedlot in Leigh Township. The recommendation includes conditions discussed during the hearing, and the application will go before the County Board on February 2, 2021. The commission also elected officers and approved the previous meeting's minutes.

• Elected Clint Katherine as Chairperson (all in favor)
• Elected George Sandy as Vice-Chairperson (all in favor)
• Recommended approval of conditional use permit for Tier III hog feedlot (all in favor)
• Approved December 28, 2020 minutes (all in favor)

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will hear departmental reports from the Sheriff, Social Services, Public Health, Extension, Auditor, and Public Works. The board will also consider approving county warrants, a $61,875 jail security system upgrade, and a request to replace a retiring Accounting Technician in Social Services. A report on Human Services payments across all program areas is also scheduled.

• Consider $61,875 jail security system upgrade by Stanley Convergent Security Solutions, funded from jail reserves
• Approve replacement of an Accounting Technician in Social Services (grade 24)
• Approve list of 2021 Tobacco License renewals, totaling $1,961.00 in fees
• Review December monthly report from the Sheriff's department
• Approve County Board Warrants for payment

County Board of Commissioners

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners will hold its annual organizational meeting, including the election of a chair and vice-chair, approval of annual resolutions and appointments, and setting elected officials' salaries. The board will also consider a bid for legal printing, receive a land services report, and approve county board warrants. The agenda is largely procedural, with routine administrative items.

• Election of County Board Chairman and Vice-Chairman
• Approval of annual resolutions: Travel Policy, Committee Attendance Payment for Citizens, Public Meeting Notices, Code of Conduct, Citizen/Staff Committee Appointments, County Board Appointments, County Board Mileage, Elected Officials Salaries
• Bid for legal printing
• Land Services Report
• County Board Warrants

Board of Adjustment

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual public hearing to consider a variance application. The board will also conduct an election of officers.

• Variance application from Julie Lanners Revoc. Trust to place a chicken barn within a Township Road setback in Bellevue Township