Ramsey County public meetings in 2025

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will meet to approve year-end bills and 2026 beer licenses. The body will also consider appointments for the Water Board and Weed Board, as well as 2026 precinct and polling locations.

• Approval of 2026 beer licenses
• Approval of 2026 precinct/polling locations
• Ramsey Co Water Board appointments (2)
• Ramsey Co Weed Board appointment
• Approval of abatement

The Ramsey County Commission approved the December 2, 2025 minutes, year‑end bills and the meeting agenda. It authorized several payments totaling over $143,000 for road work, engineering, equipment, and right‑of‑way costs. The board also reappointed water‑resource district members, approved 2026 beer licenses, appointed a weed‑board member, set 2026 polling locations, approved two tax abatements, supported fair‑grounds improvements, and amended the agenda to discuss a bond resolution.

• Approved December 2, 2025 minutes (5 AYE)
• Approved year‑end bills and four late bills (5 AYE)
• Approved payment $123,139.23 to Asphalt Surfacing Technologies for Grahams Island Road chip sealing (5 AYE)
• Approved payment $7,160.00 to KLJ for thin lift overlay engineering (5 AYE)
• Approved 2026 beer licenses for Buckhorn, DL Speedway, Creel Bay Golf Course, Ed’s Bar & Bait Shop, JD’s Bar & Grill, Military Service Club, Patriot Fuel, Pop’s Goodtime Bar & Proz’s Lakeside @ the Cove (5 AYE)
• Reappointed Duaine Ash and John Martinson to Ramsey County Water Resource District Board (5 AYE)
• Appointed Tyler Calderwood to Ramsey County Weed Board (5 AYE)
• Approved 2026 polling locations at VBM & Memorial Building (5 AYE)

Water Board

The Ramsey County Water Board will consider routine approvals, including the November 2025 meeting minutes and financial reports. Old business items such as the Lawton Coulee‑NC Water Board item and the expiration of Duaine Ash and John Martinson's water board terms on 12/31/2025 will be discussed. New business includes the Office Manager yearly review effective 1/1/2026, followed by an open public comment period.

• Approve November 2025 regular meeting minutes
• Approve November 2025 financial reports (statement of financial position, statement of activity, budget vs actual)
• Table Lawton Coulee‑NC Water Board item until winter
• Office Manager yearly review effective 1/1/2026
• Duaine Ash & John Martinson water board terms expire 12/31/2025

The board approved the meeting agenda with an added $2,000 bill to Johnson Excavating. It also approved the November minutes, financial report, and bills, each with the added $2,000 bill. The board voted to raise the Office Manager’s hourly wage by $5, effective Jan. 1 2026. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda with $2,000 bill to Johnson Excavating (all aye)
• Approved November minutes as presented (all aye)
• Approved November financials as presented (all aye)
• Approved November bills with $2,000 addition (all aye)
• Approved $5.00 per hour pay increase for Office Manager effective 1/1/2026 (all aye)
• Motion to adjourn meeting carried (all aye)

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will hold its regular meeting, approve the previous meeting minutes, and vote on bills and the treasurer's checks by roll call. The body will also consider a letter of interest and vote to approve the scheduled meeting dates for 2026. All items are listed on the agenda for discussion and decision.

• Approve minutes from prior meeting
• Approve bills (roll call vote)
• Approve treasurer's checks (roll call vote)
• Letter of interest
• Approve 2026 meeting dates

The commission appointed Ed Brown to the vacant commission seat after reviewing letters of interest. All members voted aye, making the appointment unanimous. The board also approved the 2025 treasury checks totaling $1,446,460.02 and authorized several other items, including a $7,031.59 payment for engineering services and an $8,940.00 mobile radio quote.

• Appointed Ed Brown to open commission seat (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer’s checks totaling $1,446,460.02 (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $7,031.59 to KLJ for engineering on 89th Ave (unanimous)
• Approved quote of $8,940.00 for Mobile Radio Readiness (unanimous)
• Approved use of Peace Officer & Correctional Officer Appreciation Grant funds (unanimous)
• Approved agreement with Rolette County to house Ramsey County prisoners (unanimous)
• Approved resolution of support for Ramsey County Fair Board road work (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 dates as submitted (unanimous)

County Commission

The County Commission will meet to conduct a 2025 foreclosure sale. The body will also address a letter of resignation and a reappointment for the RC Water Board.

• 2025 foreclosure sale
• RC Water Board reappointment
• Letter of resignation

The commission approved several payments for county services, accepted a foreclosure bid, declared a 2017 surplus for sale, and approved CDL training for the Highway Department. It also opened the vacant commissioner position to public letters of interest, appointed Vice‑Chairman Volk as Chairman, and approved a tax abatement for 2024. All motions passed with unanimous "AYE" votes.

• Approved $29,644 payment to Tri‑State Paving for patch work (unanimous)
• Approved $5,443.29 payment to Butler for DEF filter repair kit (unanimous)
• Approved $7,510 payment to NSC Minerals for salt (unanimous)
• Accepted foreclosure bid ID#40-0801-09705-000 for $10,050 (unanimous)
• Declared 2017 Expedition surplus and authorized spring sale (unanimous)
• Approved $3,100 CDL training for Highway Department (unanimous)
• Opened vacant commissioner seat to public letters of interest, deadline Nov 28 2025 (unanimous)
• Appointed Commissioner Volk as Chairman (unanimous)

Water Board

The Ramsey County Water Board will approve the October 2025 meeting minutes, financial reports and bills. It will receive updates on the Cattail spraying and Lawton Coulee items, and discuss several new items including a drain‑tile request, letters from Charles Ronglie and Enbridge, a culvert project on Hwy 2, a surface‑drain permit (App No 6229), and a pledge from Western State Bank. The board will also set the 2026 meeting schedule and announce a winter conference.

• Approve October 2025 financial reports and bills
• Culvert project on Hwy 2 (by racetrack)
• Surface Drain Permit Application No 6229
• Western State Bank pledge pool
• Drain Tile request from Alex Chaput

The Ramsey County Water Board approved the agenda addition for Fancher Township, the October meeting minutes, the October financial report, and the October bills. It also approved a drain tile application from Alex Chaput, the Western State Bank pledge pool, and the 2026 meeting schedule. The board decided to have Peters send a letter to the State Highway Department about the Highway 2 culvert and to submit a letter to the Department of Water Resources to expedite an emergency drainage permit.

• Approved agenda addition for Fancher Township (unanimous)
• Approved October meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October financial report (unanimous)
• Approved October bills (unanimous)
• Approved drain tile application from Alex Chaput (unanimous)
• Approved Western State Bank pledge pool (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Determined Peters will send letter to State Highway Department about Highway 2 culvert (unanimous)

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will hold its regular meeting to approve minutes, bills, financial reports, and treasurer's checks by roll call vote. It will also consider the unfinished business item labeled "Engagement letter - bond." New business includes a discussion of Operation Green Light and a December 26th discussion.

• Approve minutes
• Approve bills (roll call vote)
• Approve financial reports (roll call vote)
• Unfinished business – Engagement letter (bond)
• New business – Operation Green Light

The Ramsey County Commission approved several payments and contracts, adopted the minutes from the October 21 meeting, and authorized the county to support Operation Green Light for Veterans. They also approved an engagement letter with Arnston Stewart Wegner PC to serve as bond counsel for a possible multi‑county correction center, contingent on cost‑sharing by the LEC Board. Finally, the commission voted to close the courthouse on Friday, December 26, 2025.

• Approved minutes of the October 21, 2025 meeting (all present voted AYE)
• Approved all general and highway bills submitted (all present voted AYE)
• Approved Treasurer's checks totaling $22,003.36 (all present voted AYE)
• Approved payment of $19,887.50 to TJB Construction for apron work (all present voted AYE)
• Approved payment of $19,500.00 to Close Construction for Devils Lake yard stockpile gravel (all present voted AYE)
• Approved payment of $47,814.75 to Close Construction for RC#4 & RC#7 soft‑spot retainer (all present voted AYE)
• Approved flat‑rate $10,000 hydraulic study on 96th Ave Crossing with KLJ (all present voted AYE)
• Approved engagement letter with Arnston Stewart Wegner PC as bond counsel for a potential multi‑county correction center, contingent on LEC Board cost‑share (all present voted AYE)

County Commission

The County Commission will discuss the 2026 Blue Cross Blue Shield plan and a bond engagement letter. The meeting includes a public hearing regarding a foreclosure property and a bid for Sheriff's office in-car cameras.

• Appraised hearing for foreclosure property
• In-car camera bid from Sheriff Bryan Lang
• 2026 Blue Cross Blue Shield plan
• Bond engagement letter
• VA credit approval

The commission appointed Paul Christensen as caretaker of county‑owned land in Churchs Ferry through December 2026, with a $250 bond paid from returned Churchs Ferry funds. It also approved the purchase of three in‑car cameras for $15,802.50, several highway repair payments totaling $199,428.96, and a change to the 2026 Blue Cross/Blue Shield stop‑loss premium. Additionally, the board denied a request for exterior signage for the Abstract Office and approved a VA tax credit for 2024.

• Appointed Paul Christensen caretaker of Churchs Ferry land (bond $250) – vote: Hodous, Volk, Wilhelmi, Gessner AYE
• Approved payment $250 bill from caretaker for property upkeep – vote: Hodous, Volk, Wilhelmi, Gessner AYE
• Approved purchase of 3 in‑car cameras for $15,802.50 (40% discount) – all members AYE
• Approved payment $7,160 to Close Construction for four culverts – Hodous, Volk, Wilhelmi, Gessner AYE
• Approved payment $191,258.96 to Close Construction for soft‑spot repairs, withhold 20% ($239,073.71) until completion – Hodous, Volk, Wilhelmi, Gessner AYE
• Approved Tri‑State Paving estimate $29,664 to fix uneven spots on RC#4 and RC#3 culverts – all members AYE
• Denied Abstract Office request for exterior signage – Hodous, Volk, Wilhelmi, Gessner AYE
• Approved 2026 Blue Cross/Blue Shield premium change, raising stop‑loss from $20,000 to $30,000 – Hodous, Volk, Wilhelmi, Gessner AYE

Water Board

The Ramsey County Water Board will review and approve routine items, including September 2025 meeting minutes, financial reports, and bills. It will discuss old‑business items such as the Newbre Snag & Clear Project and related assessment listings. New business includes a request for drainage on Hwy ROW‑Dan Webster. The meeting will end with an open public comment period and notice of a winter conference.

• Approve September 2025 regular meeting minutes
• Approve September 2025 financial reports (balance, activity, budget vs actual)
• Approve September 2025 bills
• Discuss Newbre Snag & Clear Project (old business)
• Consider request for drainage on Hwy ROW‑Dan Webster (new business)

The Water Board approved a drainage request for a property on Highway 2 between mile markers 261 and 262 in Grand Harbor Township. It also approved the $0.46‑per‑acre Channel A assessment and certification letter, changed loan signers to Duaine Ash and John Martinson, and continued paying office staff Stacy Peters. All motions passed with unanimous aye votes.

• Approved drainage request for Hwy 2 right‑of‑way property (unanimous aye)
• Approved Channel A assessment listing at $0.46 per acre and certification letter (unanimous aye)
• Approved change of signers on Channel A and Newbre Snag and Clear loans to Duaine Ash and John Martinson (unanimous aye)
• Approved continuation of payment for office staff Stacy Peters (unanimous aye)
• Approved agenda with two added bills: Johnson Excavating – Leet Rd $4,250 and Johnson Excavating – Newbre Snag and Clear $51,380 (unanimous aye)
• Approved September minutes, financials, and bills (unanimous aye)
• Tabled cattail spraying update (motion not taken)
• Tabled Lawton Coulee discussion (motion not taken)

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will consider and vote on the 2026 budget and set a hearing for the 2025 appraised values on October 21, 2025. It will also receive FYI information about a court facilities improvement letter, discuss a memorandum of understanding with the Secretary of State, and address the ND State Fair delegate appointment. Routine items include approving minutes, financial reports, treasurer's checks, and the agenda.

• Approve 2026 budget
• Approve 2025 appraised values – hearing set Oct 21, 2025 at 5:45 p.m.
• FYI – court facilities improvement letter
• MOU – Secretary of State
• ND State Fair delegate appointment

The commission approved the 2026 General Fund appropriation of $6,016,736.90, allocating $15,000 for the Lake Region Community Shelter. They also approved the 2026 budgets for the Highway Department Fund ($2,080,156.76), Special Revenue Fund ($4,124,078.05) and Trust & Agency Fund ($1,365,570.85). Additional actions included appointing Elizabeth Black to the Devils Lake City Planning Commission and Eric Nygaard to the Mountain Lakes Human Service Zone Board, and adopting a memorandum of understanding with the North Dakota Secretary of State to control election equipment. All motions passed with unanimous “AYE” votes from the five commissioners.

• Approved 2026 General Fund $6,016,736.90 (all AYE)
• Approved 2026 Highway Department Fund $2,080,156.76 (all AYE)
• Approved 2026 Special Revenue Fund $4,124,078.05 (all AYE)
• Approved 2026 Trust & Agency Fund $1,365,570.85 (all AYE)
• Adopted multiple mill levies for water district, fire districts, airport, weed control, and other services (all AYE)
• Appointed Elizabeth Black to Devils Lake City Planning Commission (all AYE)
• Appointed Eric Nygaard to Mountain Lakes Human Service Zone Board (all AYE)
• Adopted MOU with ND Secretary of State to preserve and control state election equipment (all AYE)

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will convene to approve meeting minutes and the agenda. The primary focus is a public hearing on the 2026 budget, including presentations from county departments and the State's Attorney regarding salary. The meeting also covers unfinished business, new litigation, and a property tax exemption application.

• Approve minutes from August 8, September 2, and September 10
• 2026 Budget Hearing with NDSU Extension and LR Heritage Center
• Property tax exempt application from Hovde Properties
• Public hearing on 2026 budget with Starr Klemetsrud and Daniel Howell
• Approve Homestead Credit Abatement (2)

The commission approved routine items such as the meeting minutes, agenda and opening doors for the 2026 Extension Roundup. It denied John Hovde’s application for a property tax incentive for Hovde Resort, with all five commissioners voting aye. The board also approved a $116,196.22 pay increase for State Attorney Daniel Howell (3-2 vote) and authorized payments totaling $144,435.65 along with several grant and travel actions.

• Denied Hovde Resort property tax incentive application (5-0)
• Approved $116,196.22 pay increase for State Attorney Daniel Howell (3-2)
• Approved payment to K LJ for Construction Engineering – $45,775.20 (5-0)
• Approved payment to Tri‑State Paving for asphalt work – $32,493.00 (5-0)
• Approved payment to Gleason Construction for Salt Storage Building – $55,860.00 (5-0)
• Approved payment to Morris Sealcoat for Class 41m sealcoat – $10,307.45 (5-0)
• Authorized auditor to submit Flex Fund application letters (5-0)
• Approved travel to Sioux Falls for 40th Annual Road Conference (5-0)

County Commission

The Commission is meeting to discuss 2026 budgets with the Maintenance Supervisor, Airport Director, and Auditor. The body will also consider approving the Mountain Lakes Human Service Zone 2026 budget.

• 2026 budget discussions with Maintenance Supervisor Roger Gunderson
• 2026 budget discussion with Airport Director Dominic Eritano
• 2026 budget discussion with Auditor Kandy Christopherson
• Proposed approval of Mountain Lakes Human Service Zone 2026 budget

Commissioner Wilhelmi moved, and Commissioner Volk seconded, to approve the Mountain Lakes Human Service Zone 2026 budget as presented. All five commissioners voted aye, so the budget was approved unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved Mountain Lakes Human Service Zone 2026 Budget (5-0)

Water Board

The Ramsey County Water Board will hold its regular meeting on September 2, 2025, to approve minutes, financial reports, and bills from August 2025. The board will also discuss updates on the Newbre Snag & Clear Project, Cattail Spraying, and a proposed culvert installation on 96th Avenue.

• Approve August 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes
• Approve August 19, 2025 Newbre Snag & Clear Public Hearing Minutes
• Approve August 2025 Financial Reports (Statement of Financial Position, Statement of Activity, Budget vs Actual 2025)
• Approve August 2025 Bills
• Install culvert in Section 16 & 17 (Lee Werner) and clean out Sections 19 & 20 and 20 & 21 (Hammer Sullivan)

The board adopted a resolution to purchase pipe for the Channel A culvert replacement project, borrowing $75,521.88 from Western State Bank with John Martinson and Stacy Peters authorized to sign loan documents. It also approved a $52,891.29 loan for the Newbre Snag & Clear project and voted not to assess inundated acres for the Channel A project. The board authorized a letter to the DOT to lower a culvert on Hwy 2 and took several other procedural actions.

• Adopted resolution to purchase pipe for Channel A culvert replacement, loan $75,521.88 (all members voted aye)
• Adopted resolution for Newbre Snag & Clear project loan $52,891.29 (all members voted aye)
• Voted not to assess inundated acres for Channel A culvert replacement (all members voted aye)
• Authorized KL to write a rational letter to the DOT to lower Hwy 2 culvert (all members voted aye)
• Tabled Lawton Coulee Project until a winter meeting (motion carried)
• Noted terms of Martinson and Ash end on 12/31/2025 (informational)
• Requested Paul Bjornson to bring recommendations on 96" Ave crossing for next meeting (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:00 AM (motion carried)

County Commission

The Commission is hearing 2026 budget presentations from several department heads, including Emergency Management, the Recorder, and the Treasurer. The body will also address board appointments and a VA credit approval.

• 2026 budget discussions for Emergency Management, Recorder, Treasurer, Tech Coordinator, Tax Director, and Veterans Service Officer
• Health, dental, and vision insurance review for 2026 with Blue Cross/Blue Shield
• Weed Board re-appointment
• Mountain Lakes Zone Board resignation
• Approval of VA credit

The commission approved numerous financial items, including payments to KLJ Engineering, Gowan Construction, and motor‑grader tires, totaling over $100,000. They also approved the Treasurer’s checks for $711,889.24 and the Opioid Training purchase of $1,500 and 200 books. The board set a special meeting for September 10, 2025 to review the 2026 budget. Additional actions included reappointing a Weed Board member, accepting a board resignation, and endorsing letters of support for local projects.

• Approved Treasurer’s checks totaling $711,889.24 (all AYE)
• Approved Opioid Training purchase $1,500 and 200 books (all AYE)
• Approved KLJ Engineering payments $5,700.15 and $28,074.52 (all AYE)
• Approved Gowan Construction payment $29,272.48 (all AYE)
• Approved purchase of 12 motorgrader tires for $20,550.00 (all AYE)
• Approved replacement of two soft‑spot culverts on RC 7 (all AYE)
• Scheduled a special meeting on Sep 10 2025 to review the 2026 budget (all AYE)
• Reappointed Bryston Berg to the Ramsey County Weed Board (all AYE)

Water Board

The Ramsey County Water Resource District Board of Managers will hold a public hearing on a petition to snag and clear a natural watercourse in Noonan, Cato, Newbre, and Triumph Townships. The project aims to improve drainage for roads and agricultural land under North Dakota Century Code 61.16.1-09.1.

• Proposed snag & clear of watercourse in Noonan, Cato, Newbre, and Triumph Townships
• Project boundaries: SE1/4 of Section 16, T155N, R61W to NE1/4 of Section 34, T156N, R62W
• Public hearing required under ND Century Code 61.16.1-09.1

The Ramsey County Water Resource District Board voted to approve the Resolution of Necessity for the Newbre Snag & Clear project, with all three members voting aye. The Ramsey County Commissioners then approved the same resolution, with three aye votes and one nay. Both bodies’ approvals formally authorized the project.

• Water board approved Resolution of Necessity (Randy Schemionek motion, 3-0)
• County Commissioners approved Resolution of Necessity (Jeff Frith motion, 3-1)

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will hold its regular meeting on August 19, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in Devils Lake. The agenda includes routine approvals, a public hearing in Newbre Township, and discussions on a lease for the abstract office and opioid litigation.

• Lease for abstract office
• Discussion on opioid litigation
• Snag & clear hearing in Newbre Township

The Ramsey County Commission approved an opioid litigation agreement with Purdue and related parties. It also adopted a Resolution of Necessity for a snag‑and‑clear watershed project, appointed a Home Rule Committee chair, and approved several large road‑related contracts and purchases. All motions were carried, with two decisions recording a single dissenting vote.

• Approved opioid litigation agreement with Purdue and affiliates – unanimous AYE
• Approved Resolution of Necessity for Newbre snag & clear watershed (levy assessments) – 3 AYE, 1 NAY
• Appointed Adam Leiphon as Home Rule Committee chair, set $75 per member – 3 AYE, 1 NAY
• Approved Construction Engineering Contracts for four CERP projects (RC10, RC9, Crary Rd South, RC4) – unanimous AYE
• Approved payment to Morris Sealcoat $436,782.78 for chipseal projects – unanimous AYE
• Approved purchase of 300‑400 tons of Class 41m seal coat material at $23/ton from Morris Seal Coat – unanimous AYE
• Approved lease amendment with Ramsey County Abstract Office, deadline Oct 1, 2025 – unanimous AYE
• Approved ordering of Stepp SMT‑600 Gallon Road Oil Machine for $58,345 – unanimous AYE

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will discuss and approve the 2026 preliminary budgets at this meeting. They will also set the date and time for a public budget hearing. The agenda includes procedural items like approving the meeting agenda and allowing public comments.

• Discussion on 2026 preliminary budgets
• Approval of 2026 preliminary budgets
• Set budget hearing date and time

The commission approved the meeting agenda. It set the 2026 preliminary budget at $17,286,845.00. It scheduled the County Budget Hearing for September 16, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the Commission Meeting Room.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Set 2026 preliminary budget at $17,286,845.00 (5-0)
• Scheduled County Budget Hearing for September 16, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. (5-0)

Water Board

The Ramsey County Water Resource board is meeting to review July financial reports and discuss several drainage projects. A public hearing is scheduled for August 19 to address assessments for Channel A and Starkweather Coulee.

• Public hearing August 19 regarding Channel A and Starkweather Coulee assessments
• Cost share for spoils from project on Leet Road with DL Basin Joint Board
• Culvert request RC #4 from Shane Eidsness
• Clara Bartlett Snag & Clear at $0.50/acre
• Employee handbook changes increasing vacation, sick, and holiday hours from 6 to 7

The Water Board approved a $2,500 cost‑share for the Leet Road project spoils. It recommended that the county install a 36‑inch culvert on RC #4. The board also approved the Western State Bank pledge pool, a $0.50 tax‑season fee for Clara Bartlett Snag & Clear, and an amendment to the employee handbook to reflect a 35‑hour work week for the office manager. All motions passed with unanimous aye votes.

• Approved $2,500 cost‑share for Leet Road project spoils (unanimous aye)
• Recommended county install a 36" culvert on RC #4 (unanimous aye)
• Approved Western State Bank Pledge Pool (unanimous aye)
• Approved $0.50 Clara Bartlett Snag & Clear fee for 2025 tax season (unanimous aye)
• Amended Employee Handbook to set office manager work week at 35 hours with updated leave benefits (unanimous aye)
• Approved agenda, July minutes, July financials, and July bills (unanimous aye each)
• Tabled Lawton Coulee Project until a winter meeting can be set (no vote recorded)
• Requested Highway Superintendent to provide maintenance records for assessed drains (no vote recorded)

County Commission

The County Commission will hear budget requests for 2026 from several organizations and discuss the preliminary budget. The body will also consider a lodging rate increase and a Planning Commission board appointment.

• Budget requests from Forward Devils Lake, Lake Access, LR Community Shelter, and LEC
• 2026 budget update from RC Water Resource District Board
• Proposed in-state lodging rate increase to $110
• Planning Commission board appointment
• Approval of homestead credit

The Ramsey County Commission approved a series of payments for road and water infrastructure projects, including culvert installations and soft‑spot repairs. Commissioners appointed five members to the Home Rule Charter Committee and denied a Joint Powers Agreement with Benson County, opting to use a memorandum of understanding instead. They also set a 3 % step increase for 2026 department budgets and scheduled a special meeting on August 8 to approve the preliminary budget.

• Approved $22,000 payment to Johnson Excavating for culvert installation (all AYE)
• Approved $179,502 award to Close Construction for soft‑spot repairs (all AYE)
• Approved $153,072.35 payment to Close Construction for 89th Ave South project (all AYE)
• Approved appointment of five members to the Home Rule Charter Committee (all AYE)
• Denied Joint Powers Agreement with Benson County Sheriff; will present MOU instead (all AYE)
• Approved Ramsey County Commission Public Comment Policy (all AYE)
• Approved $110 per night GSA lodging rate effective Aug 1 2025 (all AYE)
• Directed 2026 department budgets to start with a Step +3 % increase and set special meeting Aug 8 for preliminary budget (all AYE)

Water Board

The Ramsey County and Cavalier County Water Resource boards are meeting to review financial balances and tax assessments. The boards will discuss the 2025 tax season assessment for Starkweather and the timeline for Channel A assessments.

• Starkweather Assessment for 2025 tax season
• Starkweather CD balance of $318,626.22
• Money Market Acct balance of $36,394.10
• Checking Acct balance of $1,052.95
• Channel A Assessments due to auditor by November 1, 2025

The board approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from January 16, 2025. It renewed the Starkweather water district contract for another 7‑8 months and kept the Starkweather drain assessments at $0. The board set Channel A assessments to cover labor and pipe costs, and then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Jan 16, 2025 with roll‑call addition (unanimous)
• Renewed Starkweather CD for another 7‑8 months (unanimous)
• Kept Starkweather drain assessments at $0 (unanimous)
• Set Channel A assessments to cover labor and pipe costs (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

County Commission

The County Commission will review the 2026 budget and the opioid settlement. The body is also considering a federal aid contract bond with Gladen Construction and a credit abatement for the VA.

• Discussion on opioid settlement
• Signing of County Federal Aid contract bond with Gladen Construction
• Approval of VA credit abatement
• NDIRF Claim #25061201
• Setting date for Newbre snag & clear project

The commission approved a letter of support for the Devils Lake Renaissance Zone renewal through 2035 and authorized out‑of‑state travel for Deputy Johnke and Sheriff Lang. It also approved purchases of law‑enforcement equipment, accepted low‑cost culvert contracts, selected an engineering firm for CERP projects, and approved a veterans tax credit and a $30,000 settlement claim. A public hearing was scheduled for August 19, 2025.

• Approved letter of support for Devils Lake Renaissance Zone renewal (10‑year, until 2035)
• Approved out‑of‑state travel for Deputy Johnke (hotel & mileage) and Sheriff Lang to MOCIC conference
• Approved purchase of 2 in‑car cameras for Sheriff's Department ($13,076)
• Approved purchase of 2 radar units for Sheriff's Department ($3,640)
• Accepted low culvert quotes of $11,000 each for Schlatehorn and Freije sites
• Approved purchase of 2,500 tons of Class 42 road chips ($63,750) for 2026 chip seal project
• Approved KLJ Engineering Firm for construction engineering on CERP projects
• Approved Veterans Credit for tax year 2024 (ID#30-4010-08058-000)

Water Board

The Ramsey County Water Resource board is meeting to review June financial reports and discuss ongoing drainage projects. The body will consider new assessment dollar amounts for specific coulees and a draft policy for public comments at meetings.

• Assessment amounts for Grand Harbor-Dry Lake ($2.50), Hammer-Sullivan ($1.50), and Starkweather Coulee ($0)
• Starkweather CD maturing 8/4/2025 in the amount of $318,626.22
• Draft Resolution of Policy Public Comment at Regular Meetings
• Payroll Core Worker Charge increase from $6 to $6.50 effective 7/8/2025
• Discussion of 2025 Cattail Spraying for Blue Lines/Natural Drain

The board approved the meeting agenda, June minutes, financials and bills. It adopted a revised public‑comment resolution, set 2025 assessment rates, referred the Newbre Snag & Clear project to the commissioners for a public hearing, and increased the office manager's weekly hours. All motions passed with unanimous aye votes.

• Approved agenda (all members voted aye)
• Approved June minutes (all members voted aye)
• Approved June financials (all members voted aye)
• Approved June bills (all members voted aye)
• Referred Newbre Snag & Clear Project to commissioners for public hearing scheduling (all members voted aye)
• Adopted public‑comment resolution with 20‑minute limit (all members voted aye)
• Set 2025 assessment rates: $2.50/acre for Grand Harbor/Dry Lake and $0.75/acre for Hammer Sullivan (all members voted aye)
• Increased office manager weekly hours from 30 to 35 hours (all members voted aye)

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will meet to review financial reports, bills, and treasurer's checks. The body is scheduled to discuss window caulking, new vests and carriers for the Sheriff, and the approval of homestead credits.

• Approval of homestead credit
• Sheriff Bryan Lang report regarding new vests and carriers
• Maintenance Supervisor Roger Gunderson report regarding window caulking
• Lease for Abstract Office
• NDCCA Standing Committee

The Ramsey County Commission approved a series of expenditures and administrative actions, all by unanimous AYE votes. Notably, they changed the responsible charge for all current and future federal aid projects from Kevin Fieldsend to Jason Kraft effective July 1, 2025. Additional approvals included bids for courthouse window caulking, sheriff uniforms, and various road‑related payments. The board also approved a letter inviting Governor Armstrong to visit regarding Devils Lake flooding.

• Approved $72,600 bid to Sticky Construction for courthouse window caulking (AYE)
• Approved $7,689.02 estimate from Balco Uniform for four sheriff vests (AYE)
• Approved $2,664.64 payment to Leon’s Building Center (AYE)
• Approved $9,398.05 payment to ND DOT Financial Management Division for FHWA engineering share (AYE)
• Approved $74,025.42 payment to True North Steel for resale inventory and waterboard replacement culverts (AYE)
• Approved $14,300 payment to Paulson Gravel for gravel project on RC/NCL (AYE)
• Approved change of responsible charge from Kevin Fieldsend to Jason Kraft for all federal aid projects (AYE)
• Approved letter to Governor Armstrong inviting a visit about Devils Lake flooding (AYE)

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will meet to discuss several administrative matters and new business. The body is scheduled to vote on a resolution to adopt the Comprehensive Plan and approve liquor licenses.

• Resolution adopting the Comprehensive Plan
• Approval of liquor licenses
• Lease for Abstract Office
• Discussion on Remark (Joe Kramer) services
• NDCCA Standing Committee

The commission adopted the Ramsey County Comprehensive Plan, effective August 1, 2025. It approved a $55,850 contract with Gleason Construction for a new salt‑storage facility and accepted a $348,872 state grant to fund the RC‑1 bike pathway project. Additional approvals included the Mag Water dust‑control program, several road‑maintenance purchases, and liquor‑license renewals.

• Adopted Ramsey County Comprehensive Plan (effective Aug 1 2025) – approved by all 5 commissioners (AYE)
• Approved $55,850 contract with Gleason Construction for Salt Storage Facility – approved by all 5 commissioners (AYE)
• Accepted $348,872 Transportation Alternatives grant for RC‑1 bike pathway – approved by all 5 commissioners (AYE)
• Approved Mag Water dust‑control program (~$13,500) with 75% county share – approved by all 5 commissioners (AYE)
• Approved $40,424.70 payment for Progressive Estimate #1, South Minnewaukan – approved by all 5 commissioners (AYE)
• Approved field access installation on RC 9 east of RC 3 (Brian Aanstad) – approved by all 5 commissioners (AYE)
• Approved $923,593.19 bid for multiple CERP projects with Gleason Construction – approved by all 5 commissioners (AYE)
• Approved liquor licenses for listed establishments for July 1 2025–June 30 2026 – approved by all 5 commissioners (AYE)

Water Board

The Ramsey County Water Resource board is meeting to approve May 2025 financial reports and bills. Members will discuss ongoing drainage projects and cattail spraying efforts.

• 2025 Cattail Spraying for Blue Lines/Natural Drain
• Lawton Coulee-Nelson County Water Board
• Newbre Snag & Clear Project-Shane Eidsness
• Channel A Assessments
• Joint Board Contract for Administrative Services

The board approved the cattail spraying project for the Morrison Channel and sections #8 to #7, prioritizing requests from Lawton, Triumph, and Newland Townships, contingent on budget availability. The board accepted the Devils Lake Basin Joint Water Board’s contract increase to $600 per month for administrative services and authorized Chairman Martinson to sign the new contract. The board tabled further discussion of the Lawton Coulee Project and will await additional recommendations from the Ramsey County Commission.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved May minutes (motion carried)
• Approved May financial report (motion carried)
• Approved May bills (motion carried)
• Approved cattail spraying for Morrison Channel and #8‑#7, with additional township requests if budget allows (motion carried)
• Approved increase to $600/month for Joint Board administrative services contract (motion carried)
• Tabled further action on Lawton Coulee Project (Nelson County) (tabled)
• Agreed to wait for Ramsey County Commission recommendations before proceeding with new business (no immediate action)

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will meet to conduct the 2025 County Equalization Meeting. The body will also review the LR Public Library 2024 annual report and discuss a radio antenna with Emergency Management.

• 2025 County Equalization Meeting
• LR Public Library 2024 annual report
• Emergency Management radio antenna discussion
• Abstract Office lease
• FEMA funds letter of transfer

The Ramsey County Commission approved multiple financial actions, most notably a $527,927.13 transfer of flood‑grant money to the highway tax fund. It also authorized payments for engineering design, NDDOT flood projects, a courthouse radio antenna repair, and a culvert purchase, and adopted contracts for road construction and GIS training. The board re‑advertised the Home Rule Committee and confirmed the sheriff department will stay at the jail.

• Approved $527,927.13 flood‑grant transfer to Highway Tax (all AYE)
• Approved $28,640.00 design‑engineering payment for 2026 overlay projects (all AYE)
• Approved $12,264.44 payment to NDDOT for 2022 CER Flood Projects (all AYE)
• Approved $3,754.07 contract to repair courthouse radio antenna (all AYE)
• Approved purchase of 80 ft 24" culvert for $4,237.00 (all AYE)
• Approved Standard Form of Agreement with Close Construction Co for 89th Ave NE project (all AYE)
• Re‑advertised 5‑member Home Rule Committee (AYE by Hodous, Frith, Wilhelmi, Gessner; NAY by Volk)
• Contracted Sidwell Company for soils database & GIS training, ending services with Steve Moe & Joe Kramer (all AYE)

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will hold its regular meeting to approve minutes and agenda, and discuss unfinished business including a lease for the abstract office and disaster recovery for flooded land. New business includes homestead credits, special permits, HR hiring, home rule applications, and a 2026 budget discussion.

• Lease for abstract office
• Discussion on disaster recovery for flooded land
• Homestead credits
• Approve special permit
• 2026 budget discussion

The commission approved the meeting minutes and agenda, authorized sharps containers in courthouse restrooms, and approved several water‑related construction contracts and a low‑bid window replacement. It also approved a homestead tax credit, a special permit for Pop’s Goodtime Bar, and appointed members to the Human Resource Hiring Committee.

• Approved minutes of the May 6, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved the agenda as submitted (unanimous)
• Approved hanging sharps containers in all Courthouse and Memorial Building restrooms (unanimous)
• Approved installing 48‑inch arch culverts at two locations in the Miller Waterfowl Production Area, costing $10,177.50 (unanimous)
• Approved installing a 54‑inch culvert in RC#8B, Cato Township Sec. 27/34 South, costing $14,270.25 (unanimous)
• Approved order of a 48‑inch culvert for Royal Township Sec. 20/21, costing $3,290.88 (unanimous)
• Approved the engineering contract for construction of 89th Street in South Minnewaukan Township (unanimous)
• Approved low‑bid $3,125.25 contract with Leons Building Center for new windows at the Devils Lake Shop (unanimous)

Water Board

The Ramsey County Water Resource Board will hold a regular meeting to approve April minutes, financial reports, and bills. They will discuss a public hearing recap for the Lawton Coulee Snag & Clear project, consider Channel A assessments, and review the 2026 budget. Also on the agenda are a water complaint, proposed Newbre Snag & Clear Project, and an update on the Grand Harbor Operating Committee including a $2.50 assessment.

• Recap of public hearing comments for Lawton Coulee Snag & Clear
• Channel A Assessments
• 2025 Cattail Spraying for Blue Lines/Natural Drain
• Proposed Newbre Snag & Clear Project
• $2.50 assessment for Grand Harbor Operating Committee

The board approved the agenda, minutes, April financials and bills, and then approved a joint board contract increase to $600 per month. It also approved a recommendation to replace a 24‑inch culvert with a 54‑inch culvert, accepted the Newbre Snag & Clear petition, and adopted the 2026 budget. All motions passed unanimously (all members voted aye).

• Approved agenda (all members voted aye)
• Approved April minutes (all members voted aye)
• Approved April financials (all members voted aye)
• Approved April bills (all members voted aye)
• Approved joint board contract increase to $600/month (all members voted aye)
• Recommended replacing 24" culvert with 54" culvert (all members voted aye)
• Accepted Newbre Snag & Clear petition and tasked KU with area list (all members voted aye)
• Approved 2026 budget (all members voted aye)

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will consider declaring a disaster on flooded land, receive an update on a cybersecurity grant, and approve a primary tax credit letter. Other agenda items include a resignation letter, a request for a radar unit from the Sheriff, and unfinished business from the Building & Security Committee. The meeting includes routine approvals of minutes, bills, and financial reports.

• Discussion on declaring disaster on flooded land
• Update on cybersecurity grant
• Primary tax credit letter approval
• Sheriff Bryan Lang request for radar unit
• HR resignation letter from Brian Senger

The Ramsey County Commission approved moving all Bremer funds into a cash‑sweep account. It also approved the purchase of radar guns using a grant and budget funds, and authorized a trial installation of two automatic license‑plate‑reader cameras. The board accepted a low bid for network upgrades and approved several road‑maintenance and construction contracts.

• Approved moving all Bremer Funds to cash‑sweep (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of radar guns $3,640 using $2,500 grant and $1,140 budget (unanimous)
• Approved install of 2 automatic license‑plate‑reader cameras for trial (unanimous)
• Accepted low bid $33,901.02 from DakMinn Technologies for network upgrades (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Summer Road Maintenance Contract for Prospect Township (unanimous)
• Accepted low bid $659,364.99 from Close Construction for South Minnewaukan Twp 89th Ave Project (unanimous)
• Approved payment $6,308.19 to NDDOT for design engineering on four CER projects (unanimous)
• Appointed Chairman Gessner to replace Bill Mertens on the Outlet Advisory Committee (unanimous)

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will meet to conduct a hearing regarding Lawton Coulee snag/clear. The body will also consider hiring an assistant states attorney and review a construction contract for electrical work.

• Hearing on Lawton Coulee snag/clear
• Hiring of Assistant States Attorney
• Signing of electrical construction contract
• Review of 4 homestead credits
• Recommendation from Building & Security Committee

The commission offered the County Highway Superintendent position to Jason Kraft and approved summer road‑maintenance contracts for ten municipalities. It also hired a second Assistant States Attorney, signed a $228,000 courthouse electrical contract, and denied two exemption requests and a Lawton Coulee snag‑and‑clear project. Additionally, the board approved a cost plan to relocate the County Abstract office and transferred $189,347.39 from the Human Service Zone to the Indirect Zone.

• Offered County Highway Superintendent position to Jason Kraft (AYE all 5)
• Approved 2025 Summer Road Maintenance contracts for ten cities (AYE all)
• Approved hiring of a 2nd Assistant States Attorney (AYE Wilhelmi, Frith, Volk, Gessner; NAY Hodous)
• Approved $228,000 electrical construction contract for courthouse basement (AYE all)
• Denied exemption requests ID#27-0000-07390-001 and #27-0000-07391-000 (AYE all)
• Denied Lawton Coulee snag & clear project (AYE Hodous, Frith, Volk, Wilhelmi, Gessner)
• Approved cost plan and lease to relocate Ramsey County Abstract office (AYE all)
• Approved transfer of $189,347.39 from Human Service Zone to Indirect Zone (AYE all)

Water Board

The Ramsey County Water Resource board is meeting to approve March 2025 financial reports and bills. The body will discuss specific drainage projects and the 2025 cattail spraying plan for assessed drains and natural drains.

• Royal Township Culvert (Lee Werner)
• Lawton Coulee and Channel A Assessments
• 2025 Cattail Spraying for Assessed Drains and Blue Lines/Natural Drains
• Joint Board Contract for Administrative Services
• QuickBooks Online fee increase from $970/yr to $1,069.20/yr

The water board unanimously approved the agenda, March minutes, financials, and bills. It also approved installing an 8% arch culvert in Royal Township after a recommendation from the highway department. The board decided that cattail spraying for the assessed drain will be limited to Grand Harbor‑Dry Lake this year. The joint board contract for administrative services was tabled for next month.

• Approved agenda (unanimous vote)
• Approved March minutes (unanimous vote)
• Approved March financials (unanimous vote)
• Approved March bills (unanimous vote)
• Approved 8% arch culvert installation in Royal Township after recommendation (unanimous vote)
• Limited 2025 cattail spraying to Grand Harbor‑Dry Lake only (unanimous decision)
• Tabled Joint Board Contract for Administrative Services until next meeting

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will hold a public hearing on a petition to close a portion of a section line. Other business includes reviewing bids for a 3rd floor bathroom remodel, receiving a tourism update, and discussing unfinished items such as home rule charter information, a primary residence tax credit for mobile homes, and land exempt from taxation. The commission will also consider approving three homestead credit abatements.

• Public hearing on petition to close a portion of section line (9:00 AM)
• Review of bids for 3rd floor bathroom remodel (Roger Gunderson)
• Tourism update from Suzie Kenner (8:30 AM)
• Discussion of home rule charter information
• Approval of three homestead credit abatements (new business)

The commission voted unanimously to close a 1,500‑foot portion of a section line in Sections 18 & 19, T153N R64W. It also approved a series of road‑related actions, including summer maintenance contracts, water‑line bore permits at five sites, and a design task order for a thin‑lift overlay project. Additional approvals covered general and highway bills, the Treasurer’s checks, and the 3rd‑floor bathroom remodel contract. All motions passed with all five commissioners voting “AYE.”

• Approved closure of section line portion (5‑0 AYE)
• Approved 2025 Summer Road Maintenance Contracts (5‑0 AYE)
• Approved permit for Greater Ramsey Water Department to bore water lines at 5 sites (5‑0 AYE)
• Approved design engineering task order for thin‑lift overlay on RC#4B, $71,600 (5‑0 AYE)
• Approved Treasurer’s checks totaling $7,308.72 (5‑0 AYE)
• Approved general & highway bills and fee placements (5‑0 AYE)
• Approved 3rd‑floor bathroom remodel contract, $72,655.11 (5‑0 AYE)
• Approved consolidated primary residence credit refunds for mobile homes and residences (5‑0 AYE)

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will consider unfinished business including a primary resident tax credit for mobile homes and home rule charter information. New business includes homestead credits, a Lawrence Welk proclamation, and a discussion on agenda deadlines. The board will also hear presentations from health and highway officials.

• Primary Resident Tax Credit for Mobile Homes
• Home Rule Charter Information
• Recommendation from Building & Security Committee
• Homestead Credits (3)
• Approve Lawrence Welk Proclamation

The Ramsey County Commission voted 4-1 to proceed with appointing a charter commission, a step toward pursuing home rule and a new revenue source. The board also approved several road-related items, including an agreement with Nodak Electric Cooperative and culvert purchases, and authorized opioid funds for a youth prevention program. A discussion on a primary resident tax credit for mobile homes was tabled.

• Approved minutes of March 4, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Signed agreement with Nodak Electric Cooperative for buried line relocation on 89th Ave South (unanimous)
• Approved culvert order for Royal Township coulee crossing, approx. $14,400 (unanimous)
• Authorized opioid funds for preVenture youth prevention program (unanimous)
• Proceeded with appointing a charter commission for home rule (4-1, Volk nay)
• Approved three homestead credits for 2024 tax year (unanimous)
• Declared July 2, 2025 as Lawrence Welk Day (unanimous)

Water Board

The Ramsey County Water Resource board will review February 2025 financial reports and bills. The body is discussing cattail spraying for assessed drains and blue lines/natural drains. Other items include the status of Lawton Coulee and Channel A assessments.

• 2025 Cattail Spraying Assessed Drains
• 2025 Cattail Spraying Blue Lines/Natural Drain
• Motion to close Edmore (RC Drain #10) checking account
• Lawton Coulee and Channel A Assessments
• Review of 2024 Assessment Collection Spreadsheet

The Ramsey County Water Board approved a letter supporting Concurrent Resolution No 3018 and closed the Edmore (RC Drain #10) checking account once it reaches a zero balance. The board also discussed Lawton Coulee snag and clear, Channel A assessments, and tabled 2025 cattail spraying.

• Approved agenda (3-0)
• Approved February minutes (3-0)
• Approved February financials (3-0)
• Approved February bills (3-0)
• Closed Edmore Checking Account (RC Drain #10) (3-0)
• Approved letter supporting Concurrent Resolution No 3018 (3-0)

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will consider a petition to close a section line and request a public hearing, along with routine approvals of minutes, bills, and financial reports. Unfinished business includes discussion of a home rule charter and a primary residence tax credit for mobile homes. New business items include two homestead credit abatements and an amended law enforcement joint powers agreement.

• Petition to close section line and request public hearing (Doug Goulding)
• Approve homestead credit abatements (2)
• Consider amended LR Law Enforcement Joint Powers Agreement
• Discuss Home Rule Charter information
• Discuss primary residence tax credit for mobile homes

The commission approved the purchase of two 2025 Dodge Durangos and one 2025 Dodge Pickup Crew Cab, along with several highway payments and contracts. They tabled a decision on property tax exemptions pending clarification and tabled a chipseal project on Grahams Island Road pending state park contribution. The highway superintendent announced his retirement effective May 31, 2025.

• Approved purchase of 2 Dodge Durangos ($41,063 each) and 1 Dodge Pickup Crew Cab ($46,632) (5-0)
• Approved assessor contracts with Sullivan Township, Hampden, and Starkweather City (5-0)
• Approved payment to KLJ for design work on 89th Ave NE ($19,680.17) (5-0)
• Approved payment to KLJ for TLO Project on RC#3 ($3,648.33) (5-0)
• Approved payment to ND DOT for culvert washout engineering ($2,037.28) (5-0)
• Approved ordering filters for 6 machines (~$3,800) (5-0)
• Approved ordering cutting edges for summer maintenance (~$14,240.20) (5-0)
• Tabled property tax exemption request until clarification (5-0)

Water Board

The Ramsey County Water Resource Board will hold a regular meeting to approve January 2025 minutes, financial reports, and bills. They will also discuss several water management items: Lawton Coulee, Channel A Assessments, RC Drain #10, a letter to the Attorney General, and compensation from Nelson County for a Bartlett Township stream crossing.

• Approve January 2025 financial reports and bills
• Deliberate on Lawton Coulee project
• Review Channel A Assessments
• Discuss letter to the Attorney General regarding RC Drain #10
• Consider compensation from Nelson County for Bartlett Township stream crossing

The Ramsey County Water Board approved the agenda, January minutes, financials, and bills unanimously. The Lawton Coulee Snag & Clear project was approved to proceed to the next step by a 4-1 vote. The board also voted to split the RC Drain #10 checking account balance with Cavalier County, add all board members and the secretary/treasurer as signees on Western State Bank accounts, and approve the Western State Bank pledge pool. Several items were tabled, including Channel A assessments and a large format printer purchase.

• Approved agenda, January minutes, financials, and bills (all unanimous)
• Approved Lawton Coulee Snag & Clear project to proceed (4-1)
• Tabled Channel A assessments until next month
• Approved splitting RC Drain #10 checking account balance with Cavalier County (unanimous)
• Agreed to send draft letter to Bruce Gibbens for review before forwarding to Attorney General
• Approved all board members and secretary/treasurer as signees on Western State Bank accounts (unanimous)
• Approved Western State Bank pledge pool (unanimous)
• Tabled large format printer purchase until next month

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will meet to vote on a fair board loan proposal from Western State Bank and authorize a signer, approve property tax abatements and mobile home primary resident credits, and discuss vacant office space. The agenda also includes updates from emergency management, highway superintendent, water resource district, and legislative matters.

• Approve fair board proposal from Western State Bank and authorize a loan signer
• Approve property tax abatements
• Approve mobile home primary resident credits
• Discussion on vacant office space
• Update on Capital Connection event Feb 18-19, 2025 in Bismarck

The commission approved the purchase of Motorola SIRN radios for first responders at $332,619.67, along with several other expenditures including a new pickup truck and guard rail payment. They also approved a $1.6 million loan for the Fair Board Building and set 2025 summer blading rates. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Motorola SIRN radios for first responders, $332,619.67 (5-0)
• Approved payment to 3D Specialties for guard rail on Wright Bridge, $36,385.00 (5-0)
• Set 2025 summer blading rates: $310/mile, $135/hr government, $140/hr private (5-0)
• Approved purchase of new pickup truck, $43,344.00, no extended warranty (5-0)
• Approved Chairman to sign paperwork with Western State Bank for Fair Board Building loan, ~$1,600,000 (5-0)
• Approved Homestead Credit Abatements for specified parcels (5-0)
• Approved Primary Resident Credits for mobile homeowners with correct paperwork (5-0)
• Appointed Commissioners Frith & Wilhelmi to Courthouse Security/Building Committee (5-0)

County Commission

The commission held a special meeting to review reference checks and discuss candidates for the States Attorney position. After discussion, the board voted 3-2 to offer the position to Daniel Howell. The meeting was adjourned shortly after the vote.

• Offered States Attorney position to Daniel Howell (3-2)

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission will hold its regular meeting, approving minutes and the agenda. Unfinished business includes a quit claim deed. New business involves approving two homestead credits, discussing board appointments and the states attorney position, and approving a letter of recommendation on an electrical bid. Public comment is allowed for up to five minutes per person.

• Quit claim deed (unfinished business)
• Approve homestead credit (2 items)
• Discussion on board appointments
• Discussion on states attorney position
• Approve letter of recommendation on electrical bid

The commission approved a $228,000 bid from Bergstrom Electric for a courthouse electrical system upgrade, based on Prairie Engineering PC's recommendation. They also approved a quit claim deed, homestead credit abatements, and set a deadline for reference checks on the States Attorney position. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved $228,000 electrical upgrade bid to Bergstrom Electric (unanimous)
• Approved Auditor to sign Quit Claim Deed for county parcel (unanimous)
• Approved Homestead Credit Abatements for two properties (unanimous)
• Set 5:00 p.m. Jan 22 deadline for reference checks and scheduled special meeting on States Attorney position (unanimous)

Water Board

The Ramsey County Water Resource and Cavalier County Water Resource joint board will reorganize and consider business items including approval of prior meeting minutes, updates on RC Drain #10, assessments for Channel A culvert repair, and the maturity of the Starkweather certificate of deposit.

• Approve meeting minutes from July 25, 2024
• RC Drain #10 updates
• Channel A Assessments for culvert repair
• Starkweather CD maturity on February 4, 2025

The Ramsey County/Cavalier County Water Resource Joint Board voted 5-3 to dissolve the RC Drain #10 project and return bond money to landowners who paid. The board also approved pursuing a culvert replacement project on Channel A, renewed the Starkweather Coulee CD X476, and reorganized its leadership.

• Dissolved RC Drain #10 project, returning bond money to landowners (5-3)
• Approved pursuing Channel A culvert replacement project (unanimous)
• Renewed Starkweather Coulee CD X476 to September 4, 2025 (unanimous)
• Elected John Martinson as Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Ordale Morstad as Vice-Chairman (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved July 25, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

County Commission

The Ramsey County Commission is holding a special meeting to interview three candidates for the position of States Attorney and will discuss hiring. The candidates are Amanda Klemetsrud, Meggan Crosby, and Daniel Howell.

• 9:00 AM interview with Amanda Klemetsrud
• 10:00 AM interview with Meggan Crosby
• 11:00 AM interview with Daniel Howell
• Discussion on hiring of States Attorney

The Ramsey County Commission held a special meeting on January 13, 2025, solely to interview candidates for the State's Attorney position. The 9:00 a.m. interview with Amanda Klemetsrud was rescheduled to January 17, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. due to a power outage. Interviews with Meggan Crosby and Daniel Howell proceeded as scheduled. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Rescheduled Amanda Klemetsrud's interview to Jan 17, 2025, 1:00 p.m. (power outage)
• Conducted interviews for State's Attorney position (Meggan Crosby, Daniel Howell)

Water Board

The Ramsey County Water Resource Board will appoint and organize board members for 2025, approve December 2024 minutes and financial reports, and discuss old business including Lawton Coulee Snag & Clear, Channel A Assessments, and RC Drain #10. New business includes selecting an auditing firm for 2023 and 2024 audits, updating Western State Bank signature cards, and setting an advisory committee meeting.

• Appointment/reappointment of board members
• Approval of December 2024 financial reports and bills
• Lawton Coulee Snag & Clear project discussion
• RC Drain #10 and Channel A Assessments updates
• Selection of Widmer Roel Auditing Firm for 2023 & 2024 audits

The Ramsey County Water Board held its January 7, 2025 meeting, electing John Martinson as Chairman, Duaine Ash as Vice-Chairman, and Stacy Peters as Secretary-Treasurer. The board approved the agenda, December minutes, financials, and bills, and selected Widmer Roel Auditing Firm for the 2023 and 2024 audits. Several projects were discussed, including Channel A, RC Drain #10, and the Lawton Coulee Snag & Clear, with some items tabled or scheduled for future meetings.

• Elected John Martinson as Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Duaine Ash as Vice-Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Stacy Peters as Secretary-Treasurer (unanimous)
• Approved agenda, December minutes, financials, and bills (all unanimous)
• Approved Widmer Roel Auditing Firm for 2023 & 2024 audit (unanimous)
• Tabled letter to Attorney General to next month's meeting
• Scheduled joint board meeting with Cavalier County for January 16, 2025 to discuss Channel A and RC Drain #10
• Determined special meeting needed for Lawton Coulee Snag & Clear project

County Commission

The County Commission will hold its regular meeting, first of the year, addressing routine approvals and new business. Key items include approving four homestead credit applications, a mileage increase, budget amendments, and a Department of Energy grant. The board will also discuss the January 9th president closure and set a date for state's attorney interviews.

• Approve homestead credit applications (4)
• Approve mileage increase for employees
• Discussion on January 9th president closure
• Set date for state's attorney interviews
• Approve budget amendments and Department of Energy grant

The commission approved multiple highway payments, including $50,679.51 to Mayo Construction for RC#3 paving and $8,489.72 to KLJ for overlay work, plus a $5,389.46 design payment. They also approved a $6,000 tractor rental, set the fixed asset threshold at $5,000, and raised mileage reimbursement to $0.70. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $50,679.51 payment to Mayo Construction for RC#3 paving (5-0)
• Approved $8,489.72 payment to KLJ for RC#3 Thin Lift Overlay (5-0)
• Approved $5,389.46 payment to KLJ for South Minnewaukan design (5-0)
• Approved $6,000 tractor rental from John Deere (5-0)
• Set county fixed assets threshold at $5,000 (5-0)
• Approved mileage reimbursement rate increase to $0.70 (5-0)
• Approved $1,378,370.88 in Treasurer's Checks (5-0)
• Approved 2024 expenditure budget amendments (5-0)