Cottonwood County public meetings in 2021

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to finalize the 2022 budget and certify the 2022 levy. The agenda includes discussions on an opioid settlement agreement and various personnel and equipment matters.

• Certification of 2022 Levy and finalization of 2022 Budget
• Opioid Settlement Agreement Resolution
• DVHHS Contract for Jackson County Child Support
• Delegation Agreement for Feedlot Officers & MPCA
• 2022 Wages for Commissioner and Elected Officials

The board certified the 2022 property tax levy at $11,476,575, a 3.75% increase from 2021, and set the 2022 budget with revenues and expenditures balanced at $23,766,152. Several 2022 salaries were approved, including a 7% raise for the county coordinator and a 3% raise for the county attorney, while a proposed 12.3% raise for the auditor/treasurer failed. The board also approved the purchase of a used oil distributor for $135,000, transferred $200,000 from the General Fund to the Landfill, and authorized participation in opioid settlement agreements. No action was taken on a proposal to place kiosks and picnic tables on courthouse grounds.

• Certified 2022 levy at $11,476,575 (3.75% increase) (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 budget with revenues/expenditures of $23,766,152 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 2017 International oil distributor for $135,000 (unanimous)
• Transferred $200,000 from General Fund to Landfill (unanimous)
• Approved resolution 21-12-21 for opioid settlement participation (unanimous)
• Set Jason Purrington's 2022 salary at $112,500 (3-2)
• Set Donna Torkelson's 2022 salary at $89,290 (3-2)
• Set Nick Anderson's 2022 salary at $120,649 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss personnel wages for 2022 and a new full-time position for the Sheriff's Department. The agenda also includes reviews of a Joint Powers Agreement and a federal lands access grant.

• 2022 wages for non-union employees, commissioners, and elected officials
• Creation of a full-time position in the Sheriff's Department
• Purchase of radar units for the Sheriff's Department
• Federal Lands Access Program Grant presentation by Windom EDA
• Big Bend Snowriders Resolution

The Cottonwood County Board approved several items, including sponsoring the City of Windom's Federal Lands Access Program grant application for the Wolf Lake Connection Trail, purchasing radar units, and creating a new Sheriff's Department position. They also approved a revised Joint Powers Agreement for Area II and set the 2022 COLA for non-union employees at 3%. No action was taken on the Joint Powers Agreement with MN Department of Corrections, a vacation accrual rate increase, and a property tax late fee reimbursement request.

• Approved Incidental Wetland Determination for HyLife Foods (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-12-08 sponsoring FLAP grant for Wolf Lake Connection Trail (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-12-08A for Big Bend Snowriders Club (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 4 Stalker DSR 2X radar units for $9,616.00 (unanimous)
• Approved Program Coordinator/TAC job description and placed on range 12 (unanimous)
• Approved posting for Program Coordinator/TAC and Jailer/Dispatcher positions (unanimous)
• Approved Joint and Cooperative Agreement for Area II (Jan 1, 2022 - Dec 31, 2023) (unanimous)
• Set 2022 COLA for non-union employees at 3% (unanimous)

Work Session

The Board of Commissioners will discuss several operational and infrastructure topics. The session will conclude with a closed meeting to develop an offer for parcel number 08.022.0100.

• Landfill discussion
• Bonding
• Building discussion
• HEO Position
• DVHHS Attorney Services

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners held a work session and approved hiring a selected applicant for the Heavy Equipment Operator position at $22.08/hour, contingent on completing all hiring requirements, and approved 160 hours of unpaid leave to be used by December 31, 2022. The board also reached consensus to proceed with a study on County Ditch #21 regarding 62 feet of broken tile, and to begin with a contract for DVHHS attorney services before discussing additional support staff. Per diems for commissioners attending Summit Carbon Solutions meetings were approved.

• Approved hiring selected applicant for Heavy Equipment Operator position on Range 10E ($22.08/hour) of the 2022 wage matrix upon successful completion of all hiring requirements
• Approved 160 hours of unpaid leave for the new hire to be used by December 31, 2022
• Reached consensus to proceed with a study on County Ditch #21 to explore options beyond repairing 62 feet of broken tile
• Reached consensus to begin with agreeing to a contract for DVHHS attorney services, with additional support staff to be discussed later
• Approved per diems for Commissioners attending Summit Carbon Solutions meetings
• Approved the agenda as amended
• Closed meeting to discuss development of an offer for parcel number 08.022.0100, then reopened

County Commissioners

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners will review mental health needs and a Safe and Secure Courthouse Grant. The board will also discuss the 2020 State Audit and personnel matters. A closed session will follow to develop an offer for parcel number 08.022.0100.

• Mental Health Needs of Cottonwood County
• Safe and Secure Courthouse Grant and equipment purchase
• Hire of Heavy Equipment Operator
• 2020 State Audit discussion
• Offer development for parcel number 08.022.0100

The Cottonwood County Board approved the purchase of 10 rifles and 10 red dot sights for $8,149.90 from Alex Pro Firearms, funded by the Drug Task Force seizure account. The board also approved a grant application for a secure courthouse meeting room, moved two jail staff to permanent full-time status, and held a closed session to discuss a land offer.

• Approved $8,149.90 purchase of 10 rifles and 10 red dot sights from Alex Pro Firearms (unanimous)
• Allowed Sheriff to apply for Safe and Secure Courthouse Grant (unanimous)
• Moved Jason Rupp to permanent full-time status effective Nov 24, 2021 (unanimous)
• Moved Dan Quade to permanent full-time status effective Nov 24, 2021 (unanimous, Gravley abstained)
• Approved immediate payment of $1,410.07 Plunkett's bill (unanimous)
• Approved November warrants totaling $120,442.33 (unanimous)
• Approved per diem for Commissioner Gravley for MnDOT Open House (unanimous)
• Approved per diem for Commissioner Stevens for Windom Utilities meeting (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a housing initiative and tax abatement for Bryan Bargen. The board will also review grant funding for natural resources and bid advertisements for construction projects.

• Public hearing and tax abatement resolution for Bryan Bargen housing initiative
• FY 2022 & 2023 Natural Resources Block Grant
• Bids for Project 017-598-008 and 2022 Construction Projects
• Hire of Heavy Equipment Operator and promotion of David Grev to Deputy Assessor
• Discussion of 2020 State Audit and bonding

The board approved a residential property tax abatement for Bargen, Inc.'s twin home construction, along with a $71,388 Natural Resources Block Grant. It also authorized advertising for 2022 construction bids, adjusted a job offer, and made several personnel decisions.

• Approved tax abatement and resolution 21-11-02 for Bargen, Inc. twin home (unanimous)
• Approved FY2022-2023 Natural Resources Block Grant totaling $71,388 (unanimous)
• Authorized County Engineer to advertise for 2022 construction bids (unanimous)
• Revised Heavy Equipment Operator offer to vacation accrual as 4-year employee (4-1)
• Offered Solid Waste Technician position to Kevin Grunewald (unanimous)
• Promoted David Grev to Deputy Assessor retroactive to Oct 25, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved November warrants totaling $47,945.47 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss land acquisition in Lakeside Township and a new construction housing initiative. The board will also review snow maintenance agreements and concrete crushing quotes.

• Land acquisition in Lakeside Township
• New construction housing initiative with Bryan Bargen
• Snow maintenance agreements
• Concrete crushing quotes
• Red Rock Rural Water Board appointments

The board approved a concrete crushing contract with Dubelde Gravel for $104,000, covering mobilization and processing of 15,000 tons. They also approved snow removal agreements with four local governments, certified a land sale to U.S. Fish & Wildlife, and set a public hearing for a tax abatement on a new twin home. Several routine items, including warrants and a resignation, were approved unanimously.

• Approved Dubelde Gravel concrete crushing quote: $3,000 mobilization + 15,000 ton at $5/ton + $260/hr processing - $104,000 (unanimous)
• Approved 2021-2022 snow removal agreements with City of Jeffers, City of Westbrook, City of Mountain Lake, and Lakeside Township (unanimous)
• Approved Certification of Fee title purchase from Kevin and Myra Gotto to U.S. Fish & Wildlife for 7.2 acres in Lakeside Township (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 21-10-19 calling for public hearing on tax abatement for new residential project (unanimous)
• Approved re-appointment of Mike Carlson and Jay Mickelson to Red Rock Rural Water Systems Board (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Brett Nolte, Solid Waste Technician, effective October 12, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved October warrants totaling $173,987.95 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a proposed carbon capture and storage pipeline. The board will also review service contracts and receive an update on the Highway 60 Corridor Study.

• Proposed pipeline for carbon capture and storage by Summit Carbon Solutions
• Highway 60 Corridor Study update from KLJ Engineering and MnDOT
• Contract for services with Brown-Nicollet Community Health
• Westlaw contract review
• Retirement agreement for Heavy Equipment Operator

The board approved the 2022 Environmental Health Contract with the Brown-Nicollet Community Health Board, acknowledging slight increases in several license categories and plan review fees. They also approved a final payment of $3,651.32 for a bridge replacement project, accepted a $747 increase to the Westlaw contract, and approved a retirement request with advanced vacation for a heavy equipment operator. October warrants totaling $77,083.42 were approved.

• Approved the 2022 Environmental Health Contract with Brown-Nicollet Community Health Board, acknowledging license and plan review fee increases
• Approved final payment of $3,651.32 to R&G Construction for bridge #89563 replacement in Carson Township, total project cost $266,766.20
• Accepted $747.00 increase to the Westlaw Contract – Plan A subscription fee
• Approved advancing vacation hours to Scott Nesmoe and accepting his retirement resignation effective January 28, 2022 (vote 4-1)
• Approved October warrants totaling $77,083.42 across multiple funds

County Commissioners

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the budget and establish the 2022 preliminary levy. The board will also review flood plain ordinance revisions and various wetland conservation matters.

• Setting of 2022 Preliminary Levy
• Flood Plain Ordinance Revisions
• Westlaw Contract Renewal
• SafeAssure Service Agreement
• Policy #360 – Overtime/Compensatory Time

The board approved a 3.75% increase in the preliminary 2022 levy, setting it at $11,476,575.00. They also approved three Wetland Conservation Act applications, a revised Floodplain Ordinance, a Westlaw contract renewal, and several other items. The board discussed but did not decide on plans for paying off bonds for Judicial Ditches 2 and 8, and deferred decisions on overtime policy and an insurance broker.

• Approved preliminary 2022 levy of $11,476,575.00 (3.75% increase) (unanimous)
• Approved WCA Wetland Boundary and Type application for Brown-Cottonwood Joint JD#24 (unanimous)
• Approved WCA No Loss application for Brown-Cottonwood Joint JD#24 (unanimous)
• Approved WCA No Loss application for James Eigenberg's pond (unanimous)
• Approved Floodplain Ordinance revisions (unanimous)
• Approved Westlaw Contract renewal at $6,192 annually (unanimous)
• Approved SafeAssure service agreement for 2022, invoice $8,278.84 (unanimous)
• Approved final payments of $700 each to Midwest Contracting and R & G Construction (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the 2022 budget and American Rescue Plan. The agenda includes reviews of county policies, personnel matters, and a conditional use permit for a garage within shoreland.

• CUP for a garage within shoreland
• Joint Funding Agreement for Des Moines River gauge
• Adopt A Highway Policy
• Rural MN Energy Board JPA
• 2022 Budget and American Rescue Plan (ARP) discussion

The board approved applying for a $10,000 Minnesota Historical Society grant to hire a historical architect for courthouse window replacement. It also approved a joint funding agreement for a Des Moines River stream gauge upgrade, a conditional use permit for a shoreland garage, a new roller purchase, and several administrative actions. A motion to extend recorder office hours died without a second, and no action was taken on staff merit raises.

• Approved applying for a $10,000 Minnesota Historical Society grant for a historical architect for courthouse windows.
• Approved entering a Joint Funding Agreement for the Des Moines River stream gauge improvement.
• Approved a Conditional Use Permit for Lee R. Loewen for an unattached garage in Midway Township with conditions.
• Approved the Cottonwood County Adopt A Highway Program.
• Approved purchase of a new WRT PT13 Roller from Swanston Equipment Co. for $19,050 and sale of the current 2004 roller.
• Approved posting and advertising for a Heavy Equipment Operator position out of the Mountain Lake shop.
• Approved a Hardship Leave request for an employee.
• Approved moving Jennifer Muchlinski to permanent full-time status effective September 8, 2021.

Work Session

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners is holding a work session to discuss the proposed budget for 2022.

• 2022 Proposed Budget

The board unanimously adopted Resolution 21-08-31 declaring a state of emergency due to severe wind damage from August 28 storms, effective for 30 days. The board also reviewed remaining 2022 department budgets and agreed to include only COLA and step increases, not additional pay raises. Health insurance options for 2022 were discussed but deferred to the next meeting.

• Adopted Resolution 21-08-31 declaring a state of emergency (unanimous)
• Agreed to budget only COLA and step increases for 2022, no additional pay raises
• Deferred health insurance decision (BCBS vs. Medica) to next meeting

Work Session

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss the proposed budget for 2022.

• 2022 Proposed Budget

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners held a work session to discuss the 2022 Jail budget and a possible new Program Coordinator/TAC position, with Jail Administrator Jason Rupp and Dispatch/Jail Supervisor Dan Quade answering questions. Chairman Tom Appel led discussion on proposed 2022 budgets for multiple departments, including Law Library, Probation, Planning & Zoning, Recorder, Assessor, Elections, Auditor/Treasurer, Commissioner, Court Administration, General Administration, Courthouse, and N71 Building. A short discussion was held on 2022 health insurance rates. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was a discussion-only work session that adjourned at 12:03 p.m.

• Held work session to discuss 2022 Jail budget and possible new Program Coordinator/TAC position
• Discussed proposed 2022 budgets for Law Library, Probation, Planning & Zoning, Recorder, Assessor, Elections, Auditor/Treasurer, Commissioner, Court Administration, General Administration, Courthouse, and N71 Building
• Held short discussion on 2022 health insurance rates
• Adjourned meeting at 12:03 p.m.

County Commissioners

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss infrastructure projects, including a bridge replacement and MnDOT detour agreement. The board will also review 2022 seasonal camping rates and health insurance, and discuss the 2022 budget and American Rescue Plan.

• Bridge Replacement & Bonding – Project 017-611-018
• 2022 Seasonal Camping Rates
• Joint Powers & Pledge Agreement – Cottonwood-Murray JD #3
• H2Overviewers Contract – Cott-Jksn JD#54 & Jksn-Cott JD#16
• Auditor/Treasurer Office Remodel

The board accepted the low bid from R&G Construction for bridge 92766 replacement on CSAH 11, and adopted related resolutions. It also approved vehicle leasing through Enterprise Fleet Management for 2022, set 2022 camping rates, and made several personnel and lease changes. A motion to extend Recorder's Office hours failed.

• Approved $447,959.80 bridge replacement bid to R&G Construction (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 21-08-17A for State Bridge Bonding funds (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 21-08-17 for MnDOT detour agreement (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 camping rates: $1,200 regular, $1,400 premium (unanimous)
• Approved vehicle leasing through Enterprise Fleet Management for 2022 (unanimous)
• Failed motion to extend Recorder's Office hours by 3 hours/week (2-3)
• Approved 5% rent increase for DVHHS and SWCD leases (unanimous)
• Approved Auditor/Treasurer office remodel with blinds (3-2)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the 2022 budget and a CHIP presentation from MnDOT. The agenda includes reviews of gravel crushing bids and various joint ditch authority agreements.

• Gravel crushing bids and CSAH 7 crop damage payments
• 2022 Budget Request from Cottonwood County Historical Society
• 2022 MDVA Grant for Veterans Service Officer
• Joint Powers & Pledge Agreement for Cottonwood-Murray JD #3
• Family Homeless Prevention & Assistance Program Resolution

The board unanimously approved new crop damage rates for 2021, raising them from 2016 levels to $900/acre for corn and $600/acre for soybeans. It also accepted a gravel crushing bid, approved a $90,540 Pictometry flyover, and adopted a homelessness prevention resolution. Several items were tabled for more information, including a joint powers agreement and lease agreements.

• Approved Sweetman Sand and Gravel bid for gravel crushing at $57,300 (unanimous)
• Set 2021 crop damage rates at $900/acre corn and $600/acre soybeans (unanimous)
• Accepted Minnesota Department of Veteran Affairs Grant for $7,500 (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 Pictometry Flyover for $90,540, funded from Recorder's Technology, Unallocated, and Riparian Aid funds (unanimous)
• Tabled Joint Powers and Pledge Agreement with Murray County for Joint Judicial Ditch #3 for more info
• Appointed Bailey Turner to 3-year term on Extension Committee effective Jan 1, 2022
• Moved Meridee Paulson to permanent full-time status effective Aug 15, 2021 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 21-08-03 - Family Homelessness Prevention and Assistance Program (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the 2022 budget and a jail needs assessment study. The agenda includes reviews of conditional use permits and various personnel actions. The board will also address tax forfeiture tear down bids and the American Rescue Plan.

• Resolution regarding Cemstone TIF District
• Conditional Use Permits for Mattison and Cottonwood County
• Purchase of portable radios for Sheriff & Emergency Management
• Jail Needs Assessment Study presentation by Wold Architects & Engineering
• Tax Forfeiture Tear Down Bids

The Cottonwood County Board approved a resolution supporting a special state law for Windom's Cemstone TIF District, accepted a $12,500 demo bid for tax-forfeited property, and approved two conditional use permits. They also accepted a $56,384.64 quote for 13 portable radios, approved personnel changes, and approved July warrants totaling $123,567.59. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved resolution 21-07-20 supporting state law for Cemstone TIF District (unanimous)
• Accepted $12,500 demo bid from Lohrenz Excavating for tax forfeiture property 09-021-0300 (unanimous)
• Approved CUP for Gavin Mattison's Shop/House in Highwater Township with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved CUP for Highway Dept mining/crushing in Dale Township with conditions (unanimous)
• Accepted $13,986 quote from Windom Auto Value for tire changer; allowed sale of old equipment (unanimous)
• Accepted $56,384.64 quote from Alpha Wireless for 13 APX6000 portable radios (unanimous)
• Approved personnel actions: promoted Casey Schofield-Mork to full-time, accepted retirement of Glenn Johnson, terminated Melvin Lewis, hired two Solid Waste Technicians (all unanimous)
• Approved July warrants totaling $123,567.59 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to review a resolution for Red Rock Rural Water and discuss full-time jailer/dispatcher positions. The agenda includes an equipment purchase and a closed session regarding litigation with FSG Ag Acquisition Company LLC.

• Resolution and Advance Agreement with Red Rock Rural Water
• Equipment purchase presented by Assistant County Engineer/Solid Waste Administrator
• Contract with State presented by County Attorney
• Discussion of full-time jailer/dispatcher positions
• Closed meeting regarding FSG Ag Acquisition Company LLC vs. Cottonwood County

The board approved a resolution authorizing an advance agreement with the Minnesota Rural Water Finance Authority and participation in a joint powers authority for $831,000 in bonds to build a new water treatment plant for Red Rock Rural Water Systems. They also approved the advance agreement subject to changes requested by the County Attorney. Additionally, the board approved the purchase of a 2021 John Deere 544P loader for up to $133,452.72 from the SCORE fund, and approved July warrants totaling $201,793.27.

• Approved resolution authorizing advance agreement and joint powers participation for $831,000 in bonds for Red Rock water plant
• Approved advance agreement with Minnesota Rural Water Finance Authority and Red Rock Rural Water System, subject to County Attorney's changes
• Approved purchase of 2021 John Deere 544P loader from RDO Equipment, not to exceed $133,452.72, paid from SCORE fund
• Approved resolution 21-07-06 for State of Minnesota Joint Powers Agreements with County Attorney and Sheriff
• Approved transfer of Tessla Crowell to full-time Jailer/Dispatcher and Heather Janssen to remain full-time, effective July 5, 2021
• Approved July warrants totaling $201,793.27 across four funds
• Closed meeting to discuss litigation (FSG Ag Acquisition Company LLC vs. Cottonwood County) and approved retention of Marc Manderscheid for the tax court case

Board of Equalization

The Cottonwood County Board of Equalization will meet to receive an update from County Assessor Gale Bondhus. The discussion will cover county statistics, valuation changes, and law changes.

• Update on County Statistics, Valuation Changes, and Law Changes by Gale Bondhus

The Cottonwood County Board of Appeal and Equalization approved a $65,500 reduction in the building taxable value for parcel 08.016.0404 owned by Mary Louise Walinga, adjusting the 2021 estimated market value to $75,100. The board denied appeals from FGS Ag Acquisition Company and Rachel and Kenneth Yoder, keeping their 2021 estimated market values unchanged at $7,724,300 and $447,100, respectively. All other assessments were accepted as presented.

• Approved $65,500 building value reduction for parcel 08.016.0404 (Mary Louise Walinga), adjusted 2021 EMV to $75,100
• Denied appeal on parcels 25.556.0050, 25.556.0040, 25.556.0030, 25.556.0020 (FGS Ag Acquisition Company), EMV remains $7,724,300
• Denied appeal on parcel 11.163.0040 (Rachel and Kenneth Yoder), EMV remains $447,100
• Accepted remainder of assessments as presented

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review program updates, public works bids, and personnel requests. The meeting includes a public hearing regarding housing construction at 1958 Bud Road.

• Bids for CSAH 7 projects 017-6070-021 & 017-070-004
• Public Hearing: Housing Initiative - New Construction at 1958 Bud Road
• Resolution for Tax Abatement: Preferred Choice Homes (1958 Bud Road)
• Advertisement for Gravel Crushing
• 2021 MN Annual Boat and Water Grant

The Cottonwood County Board accepted the low bid of $4,870,759.64 from Central Specialties, Inc. for Project 017-607-021 on CSAH 7, and approved a property tax abatement for Preferred Choice Homes, LLC for a new home at 1958 Bud Road. The board also approved several personnel changes, including moving an engineering technician to full-time and extending a temporary custodial position, and set minimum bids for tax-forfeited land sales. A request from Red Rock Central for election help was denied, and a petition for redetermination of benefits for JD #3 was withdrawn.

• Accepted $4,870,759.64 low bid from Central Specialties for CSAH 7 project (unanimous)
• Approved tax abatement for Preferred Choice Homes, LLC new home at 1958 Bud Road (unanimous)
• Denied Red Rock Central's request for election help from Auditor/Treasurer's office
• Approved $683.00 Boat and Water Grant (unanimous)
• Moved Todd Thurmer to permanent full-time status effective July 4, 2021 (unanimous)
• Extended temporary part-time custodial position for six months (unanimous)
• Approved $166.18 mileage claim for Mark Schenk past 60-day limit (unanimous)
• Amended County Assessor Gale Bondhus' resignation to September 30, 2023 and raised hourly wage to $49.15 (3-1)

County Commissioners

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners will meet to review a new construction housing initiative and a drainage agreement. The board will also consider a conditional use permit and various service agreements.

• Housing Initiative new construction at 1958 Bud Road
• Conditional Use Permit for Davin Amara
• HLWD Drainage Agreement
• Joint Powers Agreement between Counties Served by RRRWS
• Apprize Services Agreement

The Cottonwood County Board approved a resolution calling for a public hearing on a tax abatement for a new home, granted a conditional use permit for an RV pad and electrical shed, approved a $5,000 donation for an AIS commercial, and made several personnel and agreement approvals. All votes were unanimous.

• Adopted resolution 21-06-01 calling for public hearing on tax abatement for new residential project (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Davin Amara for RV pad and electrical shed in Mountain Lake Township (unanimous)
• Approved $5,000 donation for Aquatic Invasive Species promotional commercial on KARE 11 (unanimous)
• Moved Tatum Paulson to permanent part-time Jailer/Dispatcher (unanimous)
• Hired seasonal employees Tiffany Vande Kieft, Trenton Renquist, Austin Doorenbos (unanimous)
• Approved Joint Powers Agreement for Red Rock Rural Water System bond payment (unanimous)
• Approved Apprize Services Agreement effective October 1, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved June warrants totaling $146,739.10 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will conduct a public hearing regarding a new commercial abatement for Powers. The board will also consider personnel hires and promotions for solid waste and jail services.

• Public hearing on commercial abatement for Powers
• RCRCA Joint Powers Agreement
• Approval to hire Solid Waste Technicians
• Approval to hire PT Jailer/Dispatchers
• Discussion of American Rescue Plan (ARP)

The Cottonwood County Board approved a commercial tax abatement for Bramer and Michelle Powers to build a car wash, along with the related resolution. The board also approved several personnel actions, including moving two employees to permanent status and hiring new staff, and adopted an updated COVID-19 Preparedness Plan. Additionally, they approved the RCRCA Joint Powers Agreement and the Feedlot FY2020 Year End Report.

• Approved commercial tax abatement for car wash (unanimous)
• Approved Tax Abatement application as amended (unanimous)
• Approved RCRCA Joint Powers Agreement (unanimous)
• Moved Carly Pohlman to permanent Deputy Auditor/Treasurer (unanimous)
• Moved Jordan Allen to permanent Deputy Sheriff (unanimous)
• Offered full-time Solid Waste Technician positions to Ludvigson and Lewis (unanimous, Stevens abstaining on Ludvigson)
• Hired four part-time Jailer/Dispatchers (unanimous)
• Adopted COVID-19 Preparedness Plan as amended (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners will discuss land use permits and several staffing updates. The board will also set public hearing dates for ditch projects and review a commercial abatement request.

• Conditional Use Permit for Schwartz Farms
• Conditional Use Permit for Mathiowetz Construction
• Public hearing date for JD #18 (Cottonwood-Murray Ditch Authority)
• Public hearing date for JD #17
• Commercial/Industrial Abatement for Powers

The Cottonwood County Board approved a CREP wetland restoration along JD #1, two conditional use permits for a feedlot expansion and a mining operation, and several personnel actions including a promotion, hires, and resignations. The board also set public hearing dates for a JD #17 redetermination and a commercial/industrial abatement for a car wash.

• Approved CREP wetland restoration in Mountain Lake Township, sections 2, 10, 11 along JD #1 (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for JD #17 Redetermination of Benefits on June 15, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for Powers Commercial/Industrial Abatement on May 18, 2021 at 9:02 a.m. (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Schwartz Farms feedlot expansion in Carson Township, Section 2 (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Mathiowetz Construction mining in Dale Township, Section 31 (unanimous)
• Promoted Dan Quade to Dispatcher/Jailer Supervisor effective May 24, 2021 (unanimous, Gravley abstained)
• Hired Robin Crosby as temporary part-time parks employee effective May 17, 2021 (unanimous)
• Accepted resignations of Adelaida Esquada, Ryan Brockberg, Alan Coners, and Gale Bondhus (various votes)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings regarding housing initiatives and tax abatement resolutions for three Preferred Choice Homes properties. The board will also discuss water systems and personnel matters. Discussion on the American Rescue Plan is scheduled under other business.

• Public hearing and tax abatement resolution for 1902 Bud Road
• Public hearing and tax abatement resolution for 1904 Bud Road
• Public hearing and tax abatement resolution for 1972 Bud Road
• Discussion with Red Rock Rural Water Systems regarding Great Bend Water
• Hire of Solid Waste Technician

The board approved Cottonwood County as lead county for a $905,000 general obligation bond for Red Rock Rural Water Systems' new water treatment plant. It also approved three residential property tax abatements for Preferred Choice Homes, LLC, and several personnel actions including promoting Jason Rupp to Jail Administrator. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $905,000 bond for Red Rock Rural Water Systems (unanimous)
• Approved tax abatement for 1902 Bud Road (unanimous)
• Approved tax abatement for 1904 Bud Road (unanimous)
• Approved tax abatement for 1972 Bud Road (unanimous)
• Promoted Jason Rupp to Jail Administrator (unanimous)
• Approved 2020 EMPG grant agreement of $18,135 (unanimous)
• Approved April warrants totaling $114,471.04 (unanimous)
• Moved Levi Brummer to permanent full-time status (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners will consider tax abatement and new construction for housing initiatives. The board will also review construction bids and bridge replacement grant terms. Personnel actions including seasonal hires and resignations are on the agenda.

• Public hearing and tax abatement resolution for Cartwright housing initiative
• New construction housing initiatives for Preferred Choice Homes at 1902, 1904, and 1972 Bud Road
• Construction bids for projects 017-599-105 and 017-599-107
• Amendment to Resolution 21-03-16 regarding State Transportation Fund Local Bridge Replacement Program grant SAP 017-598-005
• Purchase of survey equipment

The Cottonwood County Board approved a residential property tax abatement for the Cartwrights, set public hearings for three new home abatements, accepted low bids for two bridge replacements, amended a grant resolution, approved a GPS equipment purchase, and granted conditional use permits for a water treatment facility and a quarry expansion. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Home Initiative tax abatement for Cartwrights (unanimous)
• Set public hearings for tax abatements at 1902, 1904, 1972 Bud Road (unanimous)
• Approved $84,388.63 final payment to Duininck for CSAH 33 (unanimous)
• Accepted R & G Construction low bid of $267,889.80 for bridge 89563 (unanimous)
• Accepted Midwest Contracting low bid of $144,090.00 for bridge L9498 (unanimous)
• Amended resolution 21-03-16 grant amount to $296,472.50 (unanimous)
• Approved GPS equipment purchase from Frontier Precision for $30,486.45 (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use permits for Red Rock Rural Water and Red Rock Quarry (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting. The sole item on the agenda is a discussion regarding MN CARES Business Relief.

• Discussion of MN CARES Business Relief

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners held a special meeting and approved a unanimous motion to revoke a $3,500 CARES grant from non-profit application #33 and award it to small business application #55. The action was taken after discussion about the non-profit lacking a tax ID and the small business owner being closed due to COVID-19.

• Revoked $3,500 grant for non-profit application #33 (unanimous)
• Awarded $3,500 to small business application #55 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings and consider tax abatement resolutions for several new construction and remodel housing projects. The board will also review bids for county road work and truck purchases.

• Public hearings and tax abatement resolutions for housing projects: Palm, Wagner, Mau, and T&M Development, LLC
• Bids for Project 017-598-005 – County Road 54, Bridge #93010
• Approval of 2021 Ditch Levies
• Exempt Gambling Permit Requests for Mt. Lake Golf Course
• Landfill Reporting Services Contract

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners approved four residential property tax abatements for new home construction and a remodel, all without opposition. They also accepted a low bid for a bridge replacement, approved a T-CPR service agreement, and set the 2021 ditch interest rate at 2%.

• Approved tax abatement for Nestor and Patti Palm (new home, parcel 25.450.0350) (unanimous)
• Approved tax abatement for Daniel and Tanya Wagner (new home, parcel 25.670.0080) (unanimous)
• Approved tax abatement for Wayne and Deborah Mau (new home, parcel 25.132.0010) (unanimous)
• Approved tax abatement for T&M Development, LLC (remodel, parcel 25.622.0010) (unanimous)
• Accepted low bid of $304,464.50 from R and G Construction Co. for bridge 93010 replacement (unanimous)
• Approved T-CPR Instruction Service Agreement with North Memorial Health Care (unanimous)
• Set 2021 ditch system borrowed funds interest rate at 2% (unanimous)
• Approved March warrants totaling $227,532.33 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners will review housing construction and remodeling initiatives. The board will also discuss a 1990 abatement policy update and public works staffing.

• Housing initiatives for new construction at Palm, Wagner, and Mau
• Remodeling program guidelines and T&M Development, LLC remodel
• Update to 1990 Abatement Policy
• LRIP Application for the City of Windom
• Approval to hire a full-time Jailer/Dispatcher

The Cottonwood County Board approved resolutions to set public hearings for tax abatement on four new housing projects, including three new homes and one motel-to-housing conversion. They also amended the Housing Initiative Remodeling Program guidelines, adopted an updated abatement policy, and passed a resolution opposing the MN Clean Car rule. All votes were unanimous.

• Adopted resolution 21-03-02B for public hearing on tax abatement for Palm new home (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 21-03-02C for public hearing on tax abatement for Wagner new home (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 21-03-02D for public hearing on tax abatement for Mau new home (unanimous)
• Amended Housing Initiative Remodeling Program guidelines by removing a sentence (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 21-03-02E approving Housing Initiative Remodeling Program guidelines (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 21-03-02F for public hearing on tax abatement for T&M Development motel conversion (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 21-03-02G updating the county abatement policy (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 21-03-02A opposing MN Clean Car rule (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting to discuss tax abatements and facility maintenance. The board will also review business relief measures.

• Commercial Industrial Abatement
• Remodeled Housing Initiative Abatement
• Courthouse Tuckpointing
• MN CARES Business Relief

The Cottonwood County Board approved $250,000 in MN CARES Business Relief grants to 62 small businesses and 34 non-profits, with Commissioner Appel abstaining on one non-profit. The board also amended the county's new commercial construction tax abatement to reduce percentages over four years, and authorized the County Attorney to terminate the DVHHS legal services contract in an emergency. Tuckpointing work on the courthouse was approved, with options for caulking and painting delegated to the Building Committee.

• Approved $250,000 in MN CARES Business Relief grants to 62 small businesses and 34 non-profits (Appel abstained on one non-profit).
• Amended the February 16 tax abatement motion to set county property tax abatement at 80% (Year 1), 60% (Year 2), 40% (Year 3), 20% (Year 4).
• Authorized the County Attorney to terminate the DVHHS Legal Services Contract in an emergency.
• Approved courthouse tuckpointing: main structure $77,188, caulking around brick/trim $17,472, painting steel lintels $1,092; left option for caulking windows/doors/vents ($16,853) to Building Committee discretion.

County Commissioners

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners will meet to review a housing initiative remodeling program and an economic abatement policy. The board will also discuss surplus equipment, 2021 equipment purchases, and landfill accounts.

• Guidelines for Proposed Housing Initiative Remodeling Program
• Economic Abatement Policy
• 2021 Equipment Purchase and Surplus Equipment
• JD#3 Petition for Repair
• Landfill Accounts

The board approved a new commercial construction/remodel tax abatement with amended county tax reductions (80% for years 1-2, 60% for years 3-4) and a housing initiative remodeling program with added restrictions. It also accepted a petition to repair Judicial Ditch #3, authorized surplus equipment sales, and wrote off a landfill debt.

• Approved New Commercial Construction/Remodel Tax Abatement with 80%/60% county tax reduction (3-2)
• Approved Housing Initiative Remodeling Program with 20-year limit and Certificate of Occupancy requirement (3-2)
• Accepted Petition for Repair on Judicial Ditch #3 in Great Bend Township (unanimous)
• Appointed Johnson Engineering Group as engineer for Judicial Ditch #3 (unanimous)
• Authorized Public Works to sell surplus equipment via minnbid online auction (unanimous)
• Allowed Public Works staff to bid on truck-mounted Snogo Snowblower up to remaining 2021 equipment budget (unanimous)
• Directed small claims court paperwork for Buckentin Construction landfill debt of $4,010.16
• Wrote off Otten Exteriors landfill debt of $3,419.35 due to bankruptcy (unanimous)

Work Session

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss several administrative and financial items. The meeting includes a continuation of a financial planning session and discussions on tax programs and infrastructure.

• Auditor/Treasurer position hires
• Landfill rates
• Tax Abatement Program
• County Road 8 Petition
• Financial Planning Session continuation

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners held a work session and made several personnel and financial decisions. They promoted Meridee Paulson to full-time Deputy Auditor/Treasurer, hired Carolyn Rempel as Chief Deputy Auditor/Treasurer, and approved new landfill rates effective May 3, 2021. The board also approved a $800,000 transfer from the Revenue General Fund to the Courthouse, Grounds and Buildings Long Term fund.

• Promoted Meridee Paulson to full-time Deputy Auditor/Treasurer effective Feb 15, 2021 (unanimous)
• Hired Carolyn Rempel as Chief Deputy Auditor/Treasurer pending hiring requirements (unanimous)
• Approved posting and advertising for part-time Assessor Technician (unanimous)
• Approved new landfill rates effective May 3, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 Waste Hauler license for Riverview Sanitation (unanimous)
• Approved $800,000 transfer from Revenue General Fund to Fund 6, Dept 111 (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review the 2021 budget and proposed revisions to the CC Home Initiative Program guidelines. The meeting includes discussions on wetland conservation at CSAH 7 and several personnel actions regarding county staff.

• Wetland Conservation Act Decision – CSAH 7
• Proposed Revisions to CC Home Initiative Program Guidelines
• Feedlot Financial Report
• 2021 Budget Review
• Personnel hires for Assessor Office and Auditor/Treasurer offices

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review the 2019 financial audit and discuss tax abatements for Gove Acres and Guardian Inn. The meeting includes reviews of the 2020 jail inspection report and several public works contracts and equipment purchases.

• 2019 Financial Audit and 2020 Engagement Letter
• Tax abatement updates for Gove Acres and Guardian Inn
• Local Road Improvements Program Resolutions for Jeffers and Westbrook
• CSAH 7 Design Contract
• 2021 Equipment Purchase and 5 Year Construction Plan

County Commissioners

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting to discuss personnel hiring and business relief. The board is considering approvals for an Assistant County Attorney and part-time jailers/dispatchers.

• Approval to hire Assistant County Attorney
• Approval to hire Part-Time Jailer/Dispatchers
• MN CARES Business Relief

County Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to establish administrative rates, wages, and official depositories for 2021. The body will also consider tax abatements and land use permits.

• Tax abatements for Gove Acres and Guardian Inn
• Conditional Use Permit for Schwartz Farms
• Contract with DVHHS for guardianship work
• Setting 2021 seasonal employee wages and meal rates
• Approval of fees charged by county offices

The Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners elected Tom Appel as 2021 Board Chair and Donna Gravley as Vice-Chair. The board adopted the Watonwan River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan, approved a $1.25 million state grant for a road project, and approved conditional use permits for two hog site expansions. Several administrative items were approved, including 2021 seasonal wages, meeting dates, and the official county newspaper.

• Elected Tom Appel as 2021 Board Chair and Donna Gravley as Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 21-01-05 adopting the Watonwan River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan (unanimous)
• Approved addendum to Legal Services Contract for guardianship work at $205/hour (unanimous)
• Approved final payment of $3,188.40 to Knife River Corporation and $298,831.70 to Riley Brothers Construction (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 21-01-05B accepting $1,250,000 state grant for CSAH 2 improvement (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution 21-01-05C sponsoring Great Bend Township's LRIP grant application (unanimous)
• Approved two Conditional Use Permits for Schwartz Farms hog site expansions (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 seasonal wages: $12.75-$14.25/hour by year (unanimous)