Ward County public meetings in 2021

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will meet to approve year-end expenditures and discuss administrative updates. The agenda includes budget amendments and the 2022 redistricting of precincts.

• Approval of regular year end bills totaling $366,118.27
• Approval of Human Service Zone direct cost bills totaling $8,552.21
• Joint Powers Agreement with the City of Kenmare
• 2022 Liquor License for Veterans of Foreign Affairs
• January 2, 2022 Opioid Settlement deadline

The Ward County Commission approved $366,118.27 in general bills and $8,552.21 in Human Service Zone direct cost bills, along with a $31.61 park bill and $67,833.03 in road bills. They also approved signing a Joint Powers Agreement with Kenmare for inspections and building permits, opted into the Opioid Settlement, approved precinct districts, year-end budget amendments, a 2022 liquor license for the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and board appointments. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved general bills totaling $366,118.27 and Human Service Zone direct cost bills of $8,552.21 (unanimous)
• Approved signing Joint Powers Agreement with Kenmare for inspections and building permits (unanimous)
• Approved signing Opioid Settlement paperwork to opt in as participant (unanimous)
• Approved precinct districts as presented (unanimous)
• Approved year-end budget amendments, with Park increase from 603 Park improvement fund (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 Liquor License for Veterans of Foreign Wars (unanimous)
• Approved appointments of Commissioners and other boards (unanimous)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will meet to approve regular and HS Zone bills and conduct interviews for board openings. The commission will also discuss highway projects and 2022 election polling sites.

• Approval of regular bills totaling $781,020.74 and HS Zone Direct Cost Bills totaling $17,319.67
• Construction Engineering for Bridge Replacement project BRO-0051(055)
• Bids for Minuteman Missile Complex and Aggregate Surfacing
• Contracts for Domestic Violence Crisis Center, Lake County Historical Society, Minot Area Chamber EDC, Ryder Historical Society, and Thomas Law Firm/Timothy C. Wilhelm Law Firm
• Approval of 2022 liquor licenses and a Habitat for Humanity Northern Lights raffle permit

The Ward County Commission approved $779,220.74 in regular bills and $17,319.67 in Human Service Zone direct cost bills, all unanimously. They awarded a construction contract to Aggregate Construction Inc. for Project ROM-0300(149), selected Bartlett & West for bridge engineering, and approved a policy change ending health insurance the month after employment separation. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved regular bills totaling $779,220.74 and Human Service Zone bills totaling $17,319.67 (unanimous)
• Awarded Aggregate Construction Inc. contract for Project ROM-0300(149) (unanimous)
• Selected Bartlett & West for bridge engineering on BRO-0051(055) (unanimous)
• Approved changing end-of-employment health insurance to terminate month after separation (unanimous)
• Approved signing three 5-year SRT contracts for IT circuits and Wi-Fi (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 liquor licenses for 8 establishments (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 election polling sites using voting centers (unanimous)
• Approved Matthew Ruby to Human Service Zone Board (unanimous)

Ward County Human Service Zone Board

The Ward County Human Service Zone Board will review November 2021 fiscal reports and budget recaps. The body is scheduled to discuss a temporary position for a retired director, a new on-call pay policy, and COVID bonus recommendations.

• Review of November 2021 expenditures, bills, and budget revenue
• Discussion of Emergency Temp position for retired Director
• New On Call Pay policy effective 2021
• COVID Bonus Recommendations
• Youthworks/Attendant Care Shelter discussion

The Ward County Human Service Zone Board approved the Human Service Zone COVID Bonus program for eligible employees by a 4-2 vote. The board also approved an On Call Pay Policy providing $50 per day for on-call workers, and tabled decisions on Youthworks shelter care rates and retired Director Bliss's return until the new director starts. All other actions were routine approvals of agenda, minutes, and financial reports.

• Approved COVID Bonus program for eligible employees (4-2)
• Approved On Call Pay Policy ($50/day) (unanimous)
• Tabled Youthworks/Shelter Care rate decisions (unanimous)
• Tabled retired Director Bliss return option (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved November 16, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Received and filed November 2021 expenditures and bills (unanimous)
• Received and filed November 2021 budget reports (unanimous)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners is holding a special meeting for full-day department head evaluations. The schedule includes reviews for various county officials from emergency management to facilities.

• Emergency Manager evaluation
• Veterans Services Director evaluation
• Superintendent of Schools evaluation
• County Recorder evaluation
• Tax Director evaluation

The Ward County Commission held a special meeting on December 9, 2021, solely to conduct department head evaluations. No formal decisions or votes were made during the meeting, which included individual meetings with department heads and was adjourned without further business.

• Conducted department head evaluations (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting at 3:40 PM with no further business

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will conduct interviews for board openings and elect a new Chairman and Vice Chairman. The body will also review bills totaling $317,206.09 and consider several departmental requests.

• Approval of regular bills totaling $298,490.19 and HS Zone direct cost bills totaling $18,715.90
• Request for bids for a new van and a new police specific vehicle for the Sheriff
• Resolution of Award for the Sawyer/Velva Township bridge replacement
• Review of four plat applications
• Approval of Quit Claim deeds for foreclosed properties sold at auction

The Ward County Commission approved a $1,983,854.30 contract with Swingen Construction for the Sawyer/Velva Township bridge replacement, authorized bids for four police vehicles and a van, and approved several plat applications despite acknowledged non-compliance with zoning ordinances. The board also approved a $1.00/hour interim raise for facilities staff and various tax roll adjustments.

• Approved $1,983,854.30 bridge contract to Swingen Construction (5-0)
• Authorized Sheriff to seek bids for 4 police vehicles and 1 van (5-0)
• Approved $5,742.80 for UPS capacitor replacement (5-0)
• Approved $11,235.00 for wide format printer/scanner (5-0)
• Approved $1.00/hour interim raise for facilities staff (5-0)
• Approved plat applications for Dan Neshem, Tompkins, Fegley, Burkhart (4-1 each, Weppler dissenting)
• Approved tax roll adjustments as presented (5-0)
• Approved sale of foreclosed properties for $24,000, $6,000, and minimum bids (5-0)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners is meeting to discuss a remodel for the NDSU Extension. The board will also review a special event permit and a gaming site authorization.

• NDSU Extension remodel
• Special Event Permit for Pink ’s Bar & Grill
• Gaming Site Authorization for North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame

The Board approved spending $5,500 for appliances and $5,000 for electrical, plumbing, and cabinets for the NDSU Extension Service move. It also approved a $11,969.17 quote plus an $809.40 annual SRT network connection, totaling $12,778.57. A decision on tables and chairs was postponed until after the December 7 Minot School Election. The Board also approved a special event permit for Pink's Bar & Grill and a gaming site authorization for the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, and authorized using American Rescue Plan Act funds for the move and remodel.

• Approved $5,500 for appliances (dishwasher, refrigerator, stove, mini fridge) for the NDSU Extension move.
• Approved $5,000 for electrical, plumbing, and cabinets, with Commissioner Fjeldahl and Facility Manager Vangsness to oversee.
• Approved $12,778.57 total for IT quote and SRT network connection for the NDSU Extension move.
• Postponed decision on tables and chairs for the NDSU Extension building until after December 7 election.
• Approved special event permit for Pink's Bar & Grill, contingent on no one under 21 attending.
• Approved gaming site authorization for North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame with corrected rodeo dates.
• Approved using American Rescue Plan Act funds for the NDSU Extension move and remodel.

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will meet to approve regular and HS Zone Direct Cost bills. The agenda includes a public hearing on a right-of-way vacation and updates on American Rescue Plan Act funds.

• Regular bills totaling $708,754.42
• HS Zone Direct Cost bills totaling $14,063.60
• Public hearing regarding Right-of-Way Vacation
• American Rescue Plan Act Cornyn-Padilla Amendment update
• Court Facilities Improvement Grant Funds Application

The Ward County Commission approved $708,754.42 in general, park, and road bills, and took several actions related to the Human Service Zone, including appointing Karen Schultz as interim director and changing the COVID shelter referral contact to the Emergency Service Director. The commission also authorized the chairman to sign a letter supporting the Cornyn-Padilla Amendment, approved a Court Facilities Improvement Grant application, and tabled a Right of Way Vacation request for Dakota Boys Ranch after the petitioner withdrew it. All votes were unanimous unless noted.

• Approved $708,754.42 in general, park, and road bills (unanimous)
• Appointed Karen Schultz as interim Human Service Zone director (unanimous)
• Changed COVID shelter referral contact to Emergency Service Director Jennifer Wiechmann (unanimous)
• Authorized chairman to sign letter supporting Cornyn-Padilla Amendment (unanimous)
• Approved Court Facilities Improvement Grant Funds application (unanimous)
• Took no action on Dakota Boys Ranch Right of Way Vacation request after withdrawal (unanimous)
• Approved payroll amendments for B. Vangsness and K. Norman (unanimous)
• Approved interviewing board candidates on Dec. 7 and Dec. 21 (unanimous)

Ward County Human Service Zone Board

The Ward County Human Service Zone Board will review fiscal reports from October 2021 and discuss a General Assistance Policy effective January 1, 2022. The board is also considering approval for an emergency temporary position to bring back a retired Director for training and management assistance.

• General Assistance Policy effective 1/1/22
• Board approval for Emergency Temporary position for retired Director
• October 2021 expenditures, bills, and budget reports
• Covid Shelter and Shelter Care updates
• FC Recruitment and Retention Report

The Ward County Human Service Zone Board approved several routine items and made key decisions. It recommended that Covid shelter referrals go directly to Emergency Management's Jen Wiechmann, removed a paragraph on out-of-region placements from the Youth Works protocol, approved the General Assistance Policy, and appointed Karen Schultz as Interim Director effective 12/01/21 with interim pay. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved agenda and minutes (unanimous)
• Received and filed October 2021 expenditure, budget, and revenue reports (unanimous)
• Recommended Covid shelter referrals go directly to Jen Wiechmann (unanimous)
• Removed out-of-region placement paragraph from Youth Works STCAC protocol (unanimous)
• Approved General Assistance Policy effective 01/01/22 (unanimous)
• Appointed Karen Schultz as Interim Director effective 12/01/21 (unanimous)
• Requested interim pay for Karen Schultz (unanimous)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will meet to review bills and discuss personnel policies. The agenda includes a public hearing regarding minimum sales prices for properties foreclosed prior to 2021. The board will also consider equipment bids and a plat application.

• Approval of regular bills totaling $170,019.02 and HS Zone direct cost bills totaling $10,332.48
• Public hearing on minimum sales price for foreclosed properties prior to 2021
• 2022 equipment bids and County Road 12 pipe repair
• Plat application review
• Discussion on Funeral Leave Policy and pay amendments

The Ward County Commission approved regular bills totaling $170,019.02 and Human Service Zone direct cost bills of $10,332.48. They authorized the Highway Department to seek bids for lining two culverts on County Road 12 and for equipment, approved a plat application, and made an offer for the Facilities Director position. The commission also added nieces and nephews to the Funeral Leave Policy and received and filed resolutions on the 2nd Amendment and COVID-19.

• Approved regular bills totaling $170,019.02 and Human Service Zone bills of $10,332.48 (unanimous)
• Authorized Highway Department to request bids for lining two 84-inch culverts on County Road 12 (unanimous)
• Authorized Highway Department to request bids for equipment list (unanimous)
• Approved plat application for Cordell Poleschook (unanimous)
• Approved offer to top candidate for Facilities Director at agreed-upon salary (unanimous)
• Approved adding nieces and nephews to Funeral Leave Policy (unanimous)
• Received and filed Resolution on 2nd Amendment and COVID Passport (3-2)
• Received and filed Proclamation Regarding COVID 19 and Its Variants (3-2)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners is holding a special meeting to conduct interviews for the Facilities Management Director position. Five applicants are scheduled for interviews throughout the morning.

• Interviews for Facilities Management Director: Chad Warren, Galen Lakoduk, Brian Vangsness, Leanna Leavitt, and Dalen Humphreys

The Ward County Commission held a special meeting to interview five candidates for the Facilities Management Director position. No decision was made; the commission will decide at the next regular meeting on November 2, 2021.

• Interviewed Chad Warren for Facilities Management Director
• Interviewed Galen Lakoduk for Facilities Management Director
• Interviewed Brian Vangsness for Facilities Management Director
• Interviewed Leanna Leavitt for Facilities Management Director
• Interviewed Dalen Humphreys for Facilities Management Director
• Deferred decision on Facilities Management Director to November 2, 2021

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will meet to review bills and hold a public hearing regarding the minimum sale price of foreclosed properties. The agenda includes discussions on a Facilities Director position, pay amendments, and an IT proposal. The board will also review Attorney General opinions on a 2nd Amendment resolution and vaccine passports.

• Public hearing on minimum sale price of foreclosed properties
• Approval of regular bills totaling $491,488.55 and HS Zone Direct Cost Bills totaling $17,086.78
• Review of Nimble Proposal from IT Director Jason Blowers
• Maintenance Certification for County Federal Aid Projects
• Approval of Quit Claim deeds for foreclosed property redeemed by owner

The Ward County Commission approved the 2021 tax foreclosed properties as presented, after a motion to reduce the minimum sale price of a Sawyer property failed. The board also approved the Nimble storage server proposal, authorized forwarding an ARPA press release, and appointed State Fair delegates.

• Approved 2021 tax foreclosed properties as presented (5-0)
• Motion to reduce Sawyer property sale price to $2,496.12 failed (1-4)
• Approved Nimble storage server proposal, funding to be considered from ARPA Lost Revenue funds (5-0)
• Approved Vision Zero Scope of Work and budget (5-0)
• Approved interviewing all 5 applicants for Facilities Director on Oct 27, 2021 (5-0)
• Appointed Kandi Mikkelson and John Fjeldahl as ND State Fair delegates (4-0, Fjeldahl abstained)
• Authorized forwarding ARPA press release to media (5-0)
• Took no action on settlement offer in Pietsch vs. Ward County (3-1)

Ward County Human Service Zone Board

The board will review September 2021 fiscal reports and recruitment data. Members are scheduled to discuss the Project Bee Warming Center and LIHEAP heating assistance. The meeting also includes updates on the Covid shelter and the Director position.

• Project Bee Warming Center
• LIHEAP- Heating Assistance
• September 2021 expenditures, bills, and budget reports
• FC Recruitment and Retention Report
• Covid Shelter and Shelter Care updates

The Ward County Human Service Zone Board unanimously approved the agenda, minutes, and several financial reports. They recommended Clayton Fegley for reappointment to the board for an additional two-year term, pending Ward County Commission approval. The board also discussed shelter care costs, COVID-19 protocols, and the dismissal of a 2017 lawsuit.

• Approved agenda for October 19, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from September 21, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Received and filed September 2021 expenditures and bills (unanimous)
• Received and filed September 2021 budget recap expense report (unanimous)
• Received and filed September 2021 budget revenue report (unanimous)
• Received and filed September 2021 foster care recruitment and retention report (unanimous)
• Recommended Clayton Fegley for reappointment to the board for a two-year term (unanimous)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners is holding a special meeting to conduct a final review of the budget. The body will discuss and vote on the budget's approval.

• Final Budget Review and approval

The Ward County Commission unanimously adopted the 2021 budget totaling $55,503,112 and a levied amount of $17,309,148, with all commissioners voting yes. The budget includes placing $112,400 in American Rescue Plan Act funds back into the budget as other income to keep the levy at last year's level. The county's total revenue loss was reported as $3,687,149. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted 2021 Ward County budget of $55,503,112 (unanimous)
• Adopted 2021 levied amount of $17,309,148 (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 budgets and tax levies spread against taxable property (unanimous)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will meet to review the final budget and approve bills totaling $165,987.29. The agenda includes discussions on infrastructure projects and the selection of a property/liability insurance agent.

• Approval of regular bills ($156,853.10) and HS Zone Direct Cost bills ($9,134.19)
• Sawyer/Velva Township Bridge and County Road 1 & 2 Pavement Overlay projects
• Rushville Township Plat recommendation
• Setting minimum sale prices for foreclosed properties
• Final Budget Review

The Ward County Commission approved the KLJ proposal for the Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, with a 33% compensation withholding until project completion. They also approved multiple tax roll adjustments, two NDDoT road agreements, a plat for Cordell Poleschook, and other routine items. The NDSU grant agreement was initially tabled for clarification, then approved after being removed from the table.

• Approved KLJ proposal for Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan (4-1)
• Approved 33% compensation withholding penalty for mitigation plan contract (5-0)
• Approved tax roll adjustments as presented (5-0)
• Approved NDDoT agreement for Sawyer/Velva Township Bridge project (5-0)
• Approved NDDoT agreement for County Road 1 and 2 Pavement Overlay (5-0)
• Approved plat application for Cordell Poleschook in Rushville Township (5-0)
• Approved Delta Dental as 2022 dental provider with increase (5-0)
• Approved $14,125 Roger Ward Moving quote for NDSU Extension move (5-0)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Ward County Commission approved a series of budget reductions totaling $691,875, including a 2.5% step increase and deferring the salary study, cutting facility maintenance, jail medical funds, and highway road fund. The final budget increased by 0.33 mills or $112,000. All votes were recorded, with some motions passing 4-1.

• Approved 2.5% step increase and deferred salary study (5-0)
• Reduced Facility Utilities Repairs and Maintenance by $66,100 (5-0)
• Removed jail window film coverings, saving $30,000 (5-0)
• Cut Highway Road Fund by 0.48 mill, leaving mill at 8.5 (4-1)
• Reduced funding by 10% to Assiniboine River Basin Initiative, ND State Fair, historical societies, saving $48,930 (4-1)
• Reduced Economic Development funding by 10%, saving $15,500 (4-1)
• Adopted remaining Department Head changes (5-0)
• Reduced Jail medical line item by $50,000 (5-0)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding the budget. A special meeting will follow the hearing to discuss health insurance options.

• Budget public hearing
• Special meeting to discuss Health Insurance Option

The Ward County Commission held a public hearing on the 2022 budget, where Auditor/Treasurer Marisa Haman reported a $1,891,090 decrease from the August preliminary budget, with mills down 5.32. The commission voted to allow department heads to reevaluate budgets for further cuts, and decided to stay with NDPERS for health insurance rather than accept BCBS counterproposals. No final budget was adopted; a follow-up budget meeting was scheduled for September 30, 2021.

• Opened public hearing on 2022 budget (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing at 7:35 PM (unanimous)
• Stayed with NDPERS for health insurance, rejecting BCBS counterproposals
• Approved motion to let department heads reevaluate budgets for cuts (4-1, Fjeldahl opposed)

Ward County Human Service Zone Board

The board is reviewing fiscal reports for August 2021 and discussing in-agency Covid requirements. The meeting includes updates on the Covid shelter and the Baby Safe Haven Law. The Director's report notes that the Zone Director position closes on September 22, 2021.

• August 2021 expenditures, bills, and budget revenue reports
• In-agency Covid requirements
• Zone Board change effective January 1, 2022
• Baby Safe Haven Law
• Zone Director position closing September 22, 2021

The Ward County Human Service Zone Board unanimously approved a motion to reduce its membership from 8 to 7 members effective January 1, 2022, in response to a state rule limiting County Commissioner representation to two. The board also unanimously approved offering Clayton Fegley an additional two-year term as a legislative member, and selected Hiedi Folstad-Miller, Shelly Weppler, and Mac McLeod to serve on the interview panel for hiring a new director. All financial reports and the Baby Safe Haven Law information were received and filed unanimously.

• Approved agenda for September 21, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 17, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Received and filed August 2021 expenditures and bills for September 7 and 21 (unanimous)
• Received and filed Budget Recap Expense Report for August 2021 (unanimous)
• Received and filed August 2021 Budget Revenue Report (unanimous)
• Received and filed August 2021 Foster Care Recruitment and Retention report (unanimous)
• Approved moving to a 7-member board effective January 1, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved offering Clayton Fegley an additional 2-year term as legislative member (unanimous)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will meet to approve expenditures and discuss the American Rescue Plan Act. The agenda includes reports on burn bans, plat applications, and the ending of the Families First Coronavirus Act Policy. The board will also hold an executive session regarding the Pietsch vs. Ward County case.

• Approval of regular bills totaling $532,043.98 and HS Zone Direct Cost Bills totaling $1,228.20
• American Rescue Plan Act discussion with Moore Engineering, Inc.
• Burn ban report from Minot Rural Fire Department Chief
• Plat applications review by Planning & Zoning Administrator
• Raffle permits for Badlands Circuit Finals Rodeo, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, and Minot Public School Foundation

The commission approved the agenda, prior minutes, and bills totaling $532,043.98, plus Human Service Zone direct cost bills of $1,228.20. It extended the county burn ban until October 31, 2021, and adopted the Gallagher compensation study, including the classification structure, 50th percentile salary structure, and a 10-point step midpoint at 2.4%. Two plat applications were approved, and a motion to continue the Families First Coronavirus Act Policy failed. The commission also dismissed two employees from Facilities Management effective immediately.

• Approved agenda with additions 7C (Gallagher Compensation Study) and 7D (Employee Relation concern).
• Approved commission meeting minutes from September 7, 2021.
• Approved general bills totaling $532,043.98 and Human Service Zone direct cost bills totaling $1,228.20.
• Extended the Ward County Burn Ban until October 31, 2021.
• Adopted the classification structure and Decision Band Method ratings presented by Gallagher.
• Implemented the fair market 50% percentile salary structure presented by Gallagher.
• Implemented a 10-point step midpoint at 2.4% as presented by Gallagher.
• Approved plat applications for Steven Kraft and Kevin Eklund as recommended by Planning & Zoning Committee.

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will review bills totaling $434,365.16 and hold public hearings regarding the Souris Joint Water Resource District and a zoning ordinance amendment. The board will also discuss the 2022 health insurance plan renewal and a 2nd Amendment resolution.

• Regular bills totaling $426,386.96 and HS Zone Direct Cost Bills totaling $7,978.20
• Public hearing on Souris Joint Water Resource District eminent domain
• Public hearing on Zoning Ordinance Amendment
• 2022 Health Insurance Plan Renewal
• Foreclosed property memo for 1501 16th St NW

The Ward County Commission approved moving county employees to the NDPERS health insurance plan after a motion to pursue a BCBS self-funded trust failed. The board also approved a special use permit for an accessory dwelling unit, two plat applications, and a $5,000 budget increase for the coroner's contract. Several items were received and filed, including the 2nd Amendment Resolution opinion and audited financial statements.

• Approved NDPERS health insurance plan (3-2)
• Denied BCBS self-funded NDPHIT Trust at 10% increase (2-3)
• Approved Special Use Permit for Dennis and Karen Erber (unanimous)
• Approved Plat Application for Austin Miller (unanimous)
• Approved Plat Application for Jerald Schoenwald (unanimous)
• Approved additional $5,000 for coroner contract (unanimous)
• Approved adjustments to Tax Roll Memorandum (unanimous)
• Approved regular bills totaling $426,386.96 (unanimous)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners is holding a special meeting to review health insurance renewal and conduct budget discussions.

• Health insurance renewal presented by Human Resources Director Tammy Terras
• Budget discussion presented by Auditor/Treasurer Marisa Haman

The commission held two special meetings on Aug. 24, 2021. In the first, they discussed the Pietsch vs. Ward County case in executive session and voted 3-1 to follow the recommendation of their attorney, John Ward. In the second, they reviewed health insurance options and made changes to the preliminary 2022 budget, including reducing the State Fair allotment to $400,000 and splitting the $1.5 million Highway 900 building cost over two years.

• Followed attorney's recommendation in Pietsch vs. Ward County (3-1, Fjeldahl dissenting)
• Reduced State Fair allotment to $400,000 for 2022
• Kept development corps funding at 2021 levels, except Makoti Development receives $10,000
• Kept historical society funding at 2021 levels
• Split $1.5 million for Highway 900 building between two years

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will meet to approve expenditures and receive updates on county projects. The agenda includes discussions on a highway widening project and a compensation study.

• Approval of regular bills totaling $1,543,737.23 and HS Zone Direct Cost Bills totaling $6,904.70
• Sliver Widening Project update from Highway Engineer Dana Larsen
• Plat application and Zoning Ordinance Amendment update
• Compensation study update and pay amendments
• Youthworks Shelter Care MOU and request

The Ward County Commission approved the Sliver Widening Project on County Road 14 to Farden Construction for $731,721.25 and authorized the chairman to sign the contract. They also tabled the vaccine passport issue for further review, approved a contract with Youthworks through December 31, 2022, and approved an outlot plat for Norman Sollid. A motion to approve the Second Amendment Preservation Act without the arresting section failed, and the commission directed the State's Attorney to rewrite the questioned sections for the next meeting.

• Approved Sliver Widening Project on County Road 14 to Farden Construction for $731,721.25 (unanimous)
• Tabled vaccine passport issue for further review (unanimous)
• Approved Outlot Plat Application for Norman Sollid (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Youthworks through December 31, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved payroll amendments for T. Snellings and J. Gonzalez (unanimous)
• Approved regular bills totaling $1,543,737.23 and Human Service Zone bills of $6,904.70 (unanimous)
• Motion to approve Second Amendment Preservation Act without arresting section failed (2-3)
• Directed State's Attorney to rewrite questioned sections of Second Amendment Preservation Act (unanimous)

Ward County Human Service Zone Board

The Ward County Human Service Zone Board will review fiscal reports from July 2021 and discuss the 2022 budget. The meeting includes updates on shelter care, including shower installation and service contracts, and COVID-19 performance bonuses.

• 2022 HSZ Budget
• Shelter Care shower installation and cost
• Shelter Care Service Contract Extension
• Shelter Care Building Use Contract
• Covid Performance bonuses

The board unanimously approved extending the Shelter Care Service Agreement to 50 days and continuing the Covid shelter due to rising cases. It also received and filed the 2022 Budget Breakdown (with one no vote), and Director Melissa Bliss announced her resignation effective November 30, 2021.

• Approved agenda for August 17, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 20, 2021 (unanimous)
• Received and filed July 2021 expenditures and bills (unanimous)
• Received and filed July 2021 Budget Recap Expense Report (unanimous)
• Received and filed July 2021 Budget Revenue Report (unanimous)
• Received and filed July 2021 Foster Care Recruitment and Retention report (unanimous)
• Extended Shelter Care Service Agreement to 50 days (unanimous)
• Continued Covid shelter due to uptick in cases (unanimous)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will review the 2022 preliminary budget and discuss the investment of American Rescue Plan Act funds. The meeting includes reviews of regular bills and various department updates regarding zoning, taxes, and facilities.

• Approval of regular bills totaling $366,831.82 and HS Zone Direct Cost bills totaling $28,399.58
• Review of 2022 Preliminary Budget and setting of budget hearing date
• Zoning Ordinance Amendment and Plat Applications
• Investment of American Rescue Plan Act funds
• Liquor License for Superpumper, Inc. and Gaming Site Authorizations

The Ward County Commission approved the preliminary budget as presented, which includes a 10.03 mill levy increase, with the understanding that numbers can be reduced. The board also approved various routine items including bills totaling $366,831.82, tax roll adjustments, a shower installation bid, and several other administrative actions. All votes were unanimous except for the preliminary budget, which passed 4-1 with Chairman Fjeldahl voting no.

• Approved preliminary budget with 10.03 mill levy increase (4-1)
• Approved regular bills totaling $366,831.82 and Human Service Zone bills totaling $28,399.58 (unanimous)
• Approved tax roll adjustments including ownership changes for three properties (unanimous)
• Approved $14,224 bid plus permit from Big M Construction for shower installation (unanimous)
• Approved Outlot Plat Application for Orlin Nelson (unanimous)
• Approved applying for St. Joseph Community Health Foundation Grant of $3,000 (unanimous)
• Approved new Annual Leave Policy draft (unanimous)
• Approved investing American Rescue Plan Act funds at 0.3 APY with First International Bank & Trust (unanimous)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will meet to approve regular and HS Zone bills and discuss 2nd Amendment resolutions. The meeting includes updates on the Mouse River Enhanced Flood Projection Project and a hearing for an abatement request.

• Approval of regular bills totaling $459,827.01 and HS Zone Direct Cost Bills totaling $4,706.73
• 2nd Amendment resolution discussion
• Mouse River Enhanced Flood Projection Project update
• Discussion on Annual Leave Policy and pay amendments
• Abatement Request Hearing

The Ward County Commission approved a 2020 property tax abatement for 92 vacant lot parcels owned by Hudye Group, LP, accepting a reduced valuation of $3,648,000, down from a prior true and full value of $10,594,000. The commission also approved sending a 30-day notice letter to a landowner as part of the Mouse River Enhanced Flood Protection Project, a step toward potential eminent domain proceedings. Additionally, the board approved a resolution to allow the Human Resource Department to present language limiting the practice of drawing annual leave out upon separation.

• Approved the regular meeting agenda and minutes from July 6, 2021, July 12, 2021, and the June 1, 2021 Board of Equalization meeting.
• Approved general bills totaling $459,827.01 and Human Service Zone direct cost bills totaling $4,706.73.
• Tabled discussion on a proposed resolution regarding 2nd Amendment sanctuary counties until the next meeting.
• Approved sending a letter to a landowner with a 30-day notice to appear before the commission on September 7, 2021, regarding eminent domain for the Mouse River Enhanced Flood Protection Project.
• Approved allowing the Human Resource Department to present language limiting the practice of drawing annual leave out upon separation.
• Approved payroll amendments for M. Kuske and B. McDonald of the Highway Department.
• Approved a duplicate warrant to Olson Home Rental for $17.30 and a County Deed for a foreclosed property sold by a realtor.
• Denied an offer to purchase a foreclosed property because the offer was under the asking price.

Ward County Human Service Zone Board

The board will review fiscal reports for June 2021 and discuss the 2022 HSZ Budget. The meeting also includes discussions on Covid performance bonuses and personnel updates.

• Review of June 2021 expenditures, bills, and budget revenue reports
• Discussion of 2022 HSZ Budget
• Discussion of Covid performance bonuses
• Review of FC Recruitment and Retention Report
• Discussion of shelter care

The board unanimously approved the agenda, minutes, and several financial and program reports, including June 2021 expenditures, budget recap, revenue, and foster care recruitment reports. The Shelter Care Service Agreement was reviewed but tabled until the next meeting, with requests for legal review and separate contracts. The 2022 budget and COVID performance bonuses were also tabled. The meeting adjourned at 8:52 a.m.

• Approved the agenda for July 20, 2021.
• Approved the minutes of the regular board meeting of July 20, 2021.
• Received and filed the June 2021 expenditures and bills for July 1st and July 20th.
• Received and filed the Budget Recap Expense Report for June 2021.
• Received and filed the June 2021 Budget Revenue Report.
• Received and filed the June 2021 Foster Care Recruitment and Retention report.
• Tabled the Shelter Care Service Agreement until next meeting.
• Tabled the 2022 HSZ Budget and COVID performance bonuses until next meeting.

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners is meeting to begin budget discussions. The session is scheduled to recess and continue on July 19, 2021.

• Budget discussions

The Ward County Commission held a series of budget hearings in July 2021 to review 2022 department requests. The board made several preliminary decisions to meet levy limits, including reducing the library budget by $20,000, cutting the highway budget by $138,000, and approving 3 mills for Water Resources (down from a $4,620,000 request to $4,225,000). Historical societies were funded at the same level as the previous year. The hearings concluded with the budget still in preliminary form, subject to further adjustments.

• Reduced library budget by $20,000, setting aside funds for the bookmobile with intent to make up in future years.
• Approved giving each historical society the same amount as last year, reducing the total to $85,000.
• Reduced highway budget by $138,000 from materials, supplies, and services, with any excess to be returned to that area.
• Approved 3 mills for Water Resources, reducing its budget from $4,620,000 to $4,225,000.
• Removed $500,000 from general cash reserves and placed $1.5 million for the 900 Building into the preliminary budget.
• Left the emergency fund at $735,172 with no levy, as consensus was to keep it as is.
• Left NDSU Extension budget as is, with moving expenses to be handled this year and possible budget amendment later.
• Directed Auditor/Treasurer to contact external auditor about surplus funds and bond prepayment.

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners is holding a special meeting to review gaming site authorizations. The discussion focuses on four specific locations on the Fairgrounds.

• Gaming site authorizations for Carousel Pub
• Gaming site authorizations for Spicy Pie
• Gaming site authorizations for Flickertail
• Gaming site authorizations for TJ Murphy’s

The Ward County Commission denied four gaming site applications from the NDSF Foundation for Flickertail Bar, Carousel Pub, TJ Murphys, and Spicy Pie because they sought year-round authorization and included E-tab machines, which state law prohibits at special event venues like the State Fairgrounds. The board then approved revised applications for Flickertail Bar and Carousel Pub for July 23-31, 2021, excluding E-tabs, and waived the 14-day application requirement.

• Denied four gaming site applications for NDSF Foundation (Flickertail Bar, Carousel Pub, TJ Murphys, Spicy Pie) as presented (5-0)
• Approved gaming site authorizations for NDSF Foundation at Flickertail Bar and Carousel Pub for July 23-31, 2021, excluding E-tabs (5-0)
• Waived 14-day application requirement for the approved gaming site authorizations (5-0)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will review minutes from June meetings and approve regular and Human Services Zone bills. The agenda includes discussions on tax roll adjustments, special use and plat applications, and setting budget hearing dates.

• Regular bills totaling $587,719.73
• Human Services Zone Direct Cost Bills totaling $13,592.92
• Special Use Permit and Plat Applications
• Setting Budget Hearing dates for the week of July 12 - July 17
• Gaming Site Authorizations for North Dakota State Fair locations

The Ward County Commission approved the regular bills totaling $587,719.73 and Human Service Zone direct cost bills totaling $13,592.92. They also approved several special use permits, subdivision plats, and outlot plats, including for Central Power Electric Cooperative, Randy Hanson, Jordan Rodgers, Phillip Lowe, Luke Schaefer, Jordan Peterson, Robert Barfield, and Daniel Reishus. The commission voted to increase the contribution to the Minot Area Chamber EDC from $63,000 to $65,000, and to have Sheriff Roed and State's Attorney Larson draft clear language to support a petition on sanctuary cities and a 2nd Amendment gun sanctuary county. Additionally, they approved setting up county email accounts for Water Resource Board members, purchasing a floor scrubber and carpet extractors, and moving forward with Executime software for electronic time cards.

• Approved regular bills totaling $587,719.73 and Human Service Zone direct cost bills totaling $13,592.92.
• Approved increasing contribution to Minot Area Chamber EDC from $63,000 to $65,000 (vote 4-1).
• Approved having Sheriff Roed and State's Attorney Larson draft clear language to support the petition on sanctuary cities and 2nd Amendment gun sanctuary county.
• Approved setting up governmental email addresses for Ward County Water Resource Board members.
• Approved adjustments to Tax Roll Memorandum as presented.
• Approved purchasing floor scrubber from Stein's Inc. and carpet extractors from G&P Commercial Sales.
• Approved Special Use Permits for Central Power Electric Cooperative, Randy Hanson, and Jordan Rodgers.
• Approved Subdivision Plat Applications for Phillip Lowe and Luke Schaefer, and Outlot Plat Applications for Central Power Electric Cooperative, Jordan Peterson, Robert Barfield, and Daniel Reishus.

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will meet for a special session to review a gaming site authorization. The board will also hold a discussion regarding fireworks.

• Gaming Site Authorization for Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 753
• Discussion on fireworks

The Ward County Commission approved a gaming site application for Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 753 and approved replacing the bridge deck on bridge number 51-137-35.5 with a Pre-engineered Modular Bridge from True North Steel for $75,827.00. The commission also discussed a fireworks ban, keeping the current burn ban in place, and heard a recommendation to replace the bridge immediately due to load restrictions.

• Approved Gaming Site Application for Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 753
• Approved bridge deck replacement on bridge number 51-137-35.5 with a Pre-engineered Modular Bridge from True North Steel for $75,827.00
• Kept current burn ban in place, allowing fireworks at this point

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners is meeting to approve regular and HS Zone bills and discuss the Mouse River Enhanced Flood Protection Project. The agenda includes updates on the Des Lacs Auto Tour rehabilitation and preliminary budget discussions for health insurance premiums.

• Approval of regular bills totaling $246,753.52 and HS Zone Direct Cost bills totaling $13,310.73
• Mouse River Enhanced Flood Protection Project purchase agreement and maintenance
• Rehabilitation of Des Lacs Auto Tour
• Preliminary budget discussion regarding health insurance premiums and pay amendments
• Safety concerns regarding 2100 20th Avenue E, Minot

The commission approved moving forward with the Mouse River Enhanced Flood Protection Project, including the transfer of county property to the Souris River Joint Board. They also approved a new Right of Way Vacation Policy with public hearing requirements, and approved routine bills totaling $246,753.52. A motion to sponsor a grant for the US Fish & Wildlife Service failed due to financial concerns.

• Approved the agenda and minutes from June 1, 2021.
• Approved general, park, and road bills totaling $246,753.52.
• Approved moving forward with the Mouse River Enhanced Flood Protection Project, including property transfer.
• Approved Option 3 for the Right of Way Vacation Policy, requiring public hearings.
• Approved the Right of Way Vacation Policy with Option 3 and the application document.
• Denied sponsorship of the US Fish & Wildlife Service grant application (motion failed).
• Approved relocation of county departments to 900 13th Street SE.
• Approved building a 22.7% health insurance increase into the preliminary budget.

Ward County Human Service Zone Board

The board will review May 2021 fiscal reports, including expenditures, revenue, and recruitment data. Members will discuss the Youthworks Shelter Bed Program and the 2021 budget recalculation.

• May 2021 expenditures and bills
• Budget Recap Expenses and Revenue Reports for May 2021
• FC Recruitment and Retention Report
• Youthworks Shelter Bed Program
• 2021 Budget Recalculation

The Ward County Human Service Zone Board unanimously approved a motion requesting the County Commission install a shower in the 425 Building for youth in Shelter and Attendant Care, with an amendment to also approach the Oppen Foundation for a possible grant. The amendment passed 6-1, and the amended motion passed unanimously. All other agenda items were routine approvals of minutes, expenditures, and reports.

• Approved agenda for June 15, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 18, 2021 (unanimous)
• Received and filed May 2021 expenditures and bills (unanimous)
• Received and filed May 2021 Budget Recap Expense Report (unanimous)
• Received and filed May 2021 Budget Revenue Report (unanimous)
• Received and filed May 2021 Foster Care Recruitment and Retention report (unanimous)
• Requested County Commission install shower in 425 Building, with amendment to seek Oppen Foundation grant (amendment 6-1, final motion unanimous)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will meet to approve regular and HS Zone bills. The agenda includes discussions on the Mouse River Enhanced Flood Projection Project and preliminary budget planning. The board will also review planning and zoning variances and plat applications.

• Approval of regular bills totaling $197,150.88 and HS Zone Direct Cost Bills totaling $9,211.84
• Mouse River Enhanced Flood Projection Project update
• Preliminary budget discussion and compensation study
• Planning & Zoning variance and plat applications
• Crime Victim/Witness fee agreement

The Ward County Commission approved adding a full-time horticulture position with $16,000 in additional funding for 2022, despite one dissenting vote. The board also approved a levee on county land for the Mouse River flood project, several plat and variance applications, and tabled updates to the Right of Way Vacation process and health insurance decisions. Routine bills totaling $197,150.88 were approved.

• Approved full-time horticulture position with $16,000 additional funding (4-1)
• Approved constructing levee on Ward County land for Mouse River flood project (unanimous)
• Approved variance for Clarence & Nichole Lundeen at 487 N. Rice Lake Rd. (unanimous)
• Approved plat applications for Cody Hansen, Tom Pullen, Eric Wald, Waylon Delzer (unanimous)
• Approved updated Plat Approval policy (unanimous)
• Tabled Right of Way Vacation process update until next meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled health insurance decision for further research (unanimous)
• Approved 5% placeholder for salary increase in preliminary budget (unanimous)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will conduct public hearings regarding a YMCA bond resolution and moving permits. The body will also review bills totaling $248,019.00 and discuss infrastructure projects including the Sawyer Bridge Replacement.

• Approval of regular bills ($240,482.96) and HS Zone Direct Cost Bills ($7,536.03)
• Public hearing and bond resolution for YMCA MIDA
• Bids for reinforced concrete box culvert installation on County Road 12
• Cost participation and maintenance agreement for Sawyer Bridge Replacement Project
• Request for purchase of a new or used Bobcat

The Ward County Commission approved the regular and Human Service Zone bills totaling $240,482.96, adopted a bond resolution to refinance YMCA-MIDA bonds, and approved a moving permit for Rick Duncan. The commission denied a right-of-way vacation request from Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, approved several infrastructure projects including a culvert installation and generator upgrades, and took various administrative actions.

• Approved regular bills totaling $240,482.96 and Human Service Zone direct cost bills totaling $7,536.03 (unanimous)
• Adopted YMCA-MIDA bond resolution to refinance existing bonds (unanimous)
• Approved moving permit for Rick Duncan to move a garage to 2500 63rd Street NW (unanimous)
• Denied Statutory Right of Way vacation request from Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch (unanimous)
• Approved sheriff storage updates at Old Highway Department building (unanimous)
• Approved ATS replacement on Courthouse generator with Main Electric low bid of $126,225, with $100,000 budgeted and $26,225 from department budget (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of new Bobcat with government discount (unanimous)
• Approved Wagner Construction bid of $229,162.70 for reinforced concrete box culvert on County Road 12 (unanimous)

Ward County Human Service Zone Board

The board will review April 2021 fiscal reports and budget recaps. Members are scheduled to discuss the Youthworks Shelter Bed program and a Covid Shelter. The Director will provide updates on 2021 and 2022 budgets and the Economic Assistance Redesign.

• Youthworks Shelter Bed program
• Covid Shelter discussion
• April 2021 expenditures and bills
• 2021 & 2022 Budgets
• Economic Assistance Redesign Update

The Ward County Human Service Zone Board unanimously approved the agenda, prior meeting minutes, and several financial and operational reports for April 2021. The board also decided to revisit the need for the COVID-19 shelter at its August 17, 2021 meeting, after the shelter has been unused since January. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural.

• Approved agenda with addition of 'Legislative Bills' (unanimous)
• Approved April 20, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Received and filed April 2021 expenditures and bills (unanimous)
• Received and filed April 2021 budget recap expense reports (unanimous)
• Received and filed April 2021 budget revenue report (unanimous)
• Received and filed April 2021 foster home recruitment and retention report (unanimous)
• Tabled decision on COVID-19 shelter until August 17, 2021 (unanimous)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will hold a special meeting to conduct a strategic discussion regarding the Health Insurance Plan. This item is presented by Human Resources Director Tammy Terras.

• Strategic discussion regarding Health Insurance Plan

The Ward County Commission held a special meeting to discuss health insurance renewal strategies for 2021, with presentations from Randall Johnson of Hays Companies and HR Director Tammy Terras. No formal decisions or votes were made; the meeting was informational only and adjourned without action.

• Heard presentation on 2021 health insurance renewal strategies from Hays Companies and HR Director
• Took no action on health insurance plan changes

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will review meeting minutes and approve regular bills totaling $225,610.59. The agenda includes public hearings for moving permits and variances, as well as discussions regarding employee benefits and pay amendments.

• Regular bills totaling $225,610.59
• HS Zone Direct Cost Bills totaling $6,135.01
• Public hearing for a moving permit
• Public hearing for a variance
• Employee antibody testing benefit and pay amendments

The Ward County Commission approved a moving permit for John Pitner to relocate a modular home, a variance for Philip Lowe, and a subdivision plat for Robert Pritchett. The board also approved a food truck vendor at the jail, a blood drive, antibody testing, and various administrative items. All votes were unanimous except for the antibody testing motion, which passed 4-1.

• Approved moving permit for John Pitner (unanimous)
• Approved food truck vendor at jail on Wednesdays in summer (unanimous)
• Approved tax roll adjustments (unanimous)
• Approved right-of-way vacation for Robert Pritchett (unanimous)
• Approved variance for Philip Lowe (unanimous)
• Approved subdivision plat for Ryan's 2nd Subdivision (unanimous)
• Approved antibody testing through Trinity Health (4-1, Pietsch no)
• Approved Vitalant blood drive in June (unanimous)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners is holding a special meeting to discuss items presented by the Planning & Zoning Administrator. The session focuses on plat requests and actions taken by the Rushville Township Board.

• Plat requests
• Rushville Township Board action

The Ward County Commission held a special meeting on April 23, 2021, to consider plat applications and a Rushville Township board action. All five plat applications were approved unanimously, and the commission recommended approval of a Rushville Township plat to the Planning and Zoning Commission. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Steve Bigelow's 5.67-acre residential plat (5-0)
• Approved Chad Williams' 17.53-acre agricultural plat (5-0)
• Approved Josh Cogdill's two residential outlots (6.57 and 6.51 acres) (5-0)
• Approved Laverne Mikkelson's 5.37-acre residential plat (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Waylon Delzer's plat for Rushville Township to Planning and Zoning Commission (5-0)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will meet to approve regular and HS Zone bills and discuss foreclosed property sales. The agenda includes a public hearing on moving permits and a review of a connector study for SW and SE roads. The board will also consider a liquor license for the Minot Gun Club.

• Approval of regular bills totaling $283,709.57 and HS Zone Direct Cost bills totaling $4,587.93
• Foreclosed property sales to Realistic Aspirations and Michael Pankow
• Public hearing regarding moving permits
• Liquor license approval for Minot Gun Club
• SW and SE Connector Study

The Ward County Commission approved several items, including selecting Bolton and Menk for the SW and SE Connector Corridor Study with a $250,000 budget, and scheduling a public hearing for May 18, 2021 to consider sponsoring refinancing of the YMCA's MIDA Bonds. The board also approved a moving permit for Aaron Ottmar, adopted an updated Families First Coronavirus Response Act Policy, and tabled a right-of-way vacation request from Robert Pritchett. All votes were unanimous except where noted.

• Approved $283,709.57 in general bills and $4,587.93 in Human Service Zone direct cost bills (unanimous)
• Approved public hearing for YMCA MIDA bond refinancing on May 18, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved moving permit for Aaron Ottmar to move a garage from Minot to Logan (unanimous)
• Selected Bolton and Menk for SW and SE Connector Corridor Study, $250K budget (unanimous)
• Tabled right-of-way vacation request from Robert Pritchett (unanimous)
• Adopted updated Families First Coronavirus Response Act Policy through Sept 30, 2021 (4-1, Pietsch opposed)
• Approved Commission Board Appointment Policy and application (unanimous)
• Approved liquor license for Minot Gun Club, raffle permit for Minot Fireworks Association, gaming site for NDSF Foundation (unanimous)

Ward County Human Service Zone Board

The board is meeting to approve previous minutes and review financial reports from March 2021. Members will discuss unfinished business regarding FC Ascend tracking and YW Shelter/Attendant Care.

• March 2021 expenditures and bills
• March 2021 Budget Recap Expenses
• March 2021 Budget Revenue Report
• FC Recruitment and Retention Report
• Personnel and redesign updates

The board unanimously approved the agenda, prior meeting minutes, and routine financial reports for March 2021. They also received a foster care tracking sheet and discussed upcoming changes, including a Youthworks MOU and staff transitions. No major policy decisions were made.

• Approved agenda for April 20, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 16, 2021 (unanimous)
• Received and filed March 2021 expenditures and bills (unanimous)
• Received and filed March 2021 budget recap expense reports (unanimous)
• Received and filed March 2021 budget revenue report (unanimous)
• Received and filed FC Ascend tracking sheet (unanimous)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will meet to approve regular and HS Zone bills and conduct public hearings on two variances. The agenda includes discussions on highway facilities, coronavirus act policies, and a special election in Surrey.

• Approval of regular bills totaling $271,270.97 and HS Zone Direct Cost bills totaling $13,159.40
• Public hearings for two variances and review of four plats
• Discussion on Old Highway Department Facility and 2021 Crack Sealing
• Surrey Special Election scheduled for July 20, 2021
• Liquor license approval for Kenmare Country Club

The Ward County Commission approved the sale of a foreclosed property at 439 17th St NW, Minot to Michael Pankow for $37,500, with a condition allowing Pankow to quit claim the property back if title cannot be quieted within 120 days. The commission also approved a $312,471.07 fueling station installation at the new Highway Department facility, awarded a $130,291.05 crack seal project, and denied a variance for a garage setback in Douglas. Several other items were tabled, including a decision on a right-of-way vacation and a COVID-19 leave policy.

• Approved sale of 439 17th St NW, Minot to Michael Pankow for $37,500 (4-1)
• Approved $312,471.07 fueling station installation at Highway Department facility (5-0)
• Awarded $130,291.05 crack seal project to Lot Pros Inc (5-0)
• Denied variance for Clarence and Nichole Lundeen at 487 N Rice Lake Road (5-0)
• Approved variance for Matthew Morelli at 190 Rice Lake Rd S (5-0)
• Approved plat for Kelsey Meredith (5-0)
• Approved plat for Jerald and Sheila Schoenwald (5-0)
• Tabled St. Anthony's Perpetual Care Association plat until estate finalized (5-0)

Ward County Human Service Zone Board

The Ward County Human Service Zone Board is holding a special meeting to discuss the Youth Works Safe Bed/Youth Shelter Program.

• Youth Works Safe Bed/Youth Shelter Program

The Ward County Human Service Zone Board discussed concerns about non-Ward County youth placements at the safe bed shelter, including liability and financial compensation. The board agreed to prohibit agencies other than Ward County HSZ and local law enforcement from using the facility until further notice. Director Bliss and Youthworks will draft a new MOU before the next regular meeting.

• Suspended non-Ward County agency use of shelter until further notice
• Directed Director Bliss and Youthworks to draft new MOU on liability and compensation
• Discussed need for contracts covering liability, procedures, and financial reimbursement

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will meet to approve regular and HS Zone direct cost bills. The agenda includes discussions on a county burn declaration and pay amendments. The board will also review reports from the Auditor/Treasurer and the Sheriff's Department.

• Approval of regular bills totaling $208,416.45 and HS Zone Direct Cost Bills totaling $5,034.50
• County Burn Declaration presented by Rural Fire Chief Rex Weltikol
• Approval of striping bid presented by Highway Engineer Dana Larsen
• Pay amendments presented by Human Resources Director Tammy Terras
• Approval of County deeds for foreclosed property sold by realtor

The Ward County Commission approved a restrictive burn ban effective March 16 through October 1, 2021, and awarded a $196,338.32 contract to J&J Striping for county-wide center and edge line striping. The board also approved discontinuing the Kenmare ancillary office, authorized interviews for the Building Inspector position, and approved an electronic timecard project. Additionally, the commission approved a $65,000 transfer from the library operating fund to the bookmobile fund and suspended COVID antibody testing funding.

• Approved Ward County Fire Emergency and Restrictive Burn Ban (unanimous)
• Approved $196,338.32 bid from J&J Striping for center/edge line striping (unanimous)
• Approved discontinuing Kenmare ancillary office (unanimous)
• Approved moving forward with interviewing Building Inspector candidates (unanimous)
• Approved electronic timecard project plan (unanimous)
• Approved $65,000 transfer from library operating fund to bookmobile fund (unanimous)
• Suspended COVID antibody testing funding (unanimous)
• Approved county deeds for six foreclosed properties (unanimous)

Ward County Human Service Zone Board

The board will review February 2021 fiscal reports including expenditures, expenses, and revenue. Discussion items include the Shelter Care/Safe Bed program and updates regarding board training and organization.

• Review of February 2021 expenditures and bills
• Budget Recap Expenses for February 2021
• Budget Revenue Report for February 2021
• Shelter Care/Safe Bed program discussion
• Update on Board training and organization

The Ward County Human Service Zone Board approved the agenda, minutes, and routine financial reports. It directed Director Melissa Bliss to oversee a tracking system for youth in residential facilities and to bring contracts and documents for review at the next meeting, with Youth Works present. The board also scheduled a special meeting for April 6 to discuss the Youth Works Safe Bed program, following concerns about facility damage and staffing issues.

• Approved the March 16, 2021 agenda.
• Approved the February 16, 2021 regular board meeting minutes.
• Received and filed February 2021 expenditures and bills for March 2 and March 16, 2021.
• Received and filed the February 2021 Budget Recap Expense Reports.
• Directed Melissa Bliss to oversee an administrative system to track youth in residential facilities for timely paperwork.
• Received and filed the February 2021 Budget Revenue Report.
• Directed Director Bliss to bring contracts/documents to the next meeting and to have Youth Works present, with an MOU to be created with the County and Youth Works.
• Called a special meeting for Tuesday, April 6 at 8:00 am with Youth Works participating, agenda item being the Youth Works Safe Bed Program.

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will meet to approve regular bills and HS Zone direct cost bills. The agenda includes discussions on inmate health services, tax roll adjustments, and library funding. The board will also consider variance and plat approvals.

• Approval of regular bills totaling $6,229,844.11 and HS Zone direct cost bills totaling $256.88
• Agreement for providing inmate health services
• Approval of one variance and six plats
• Pay amendments and compensation study for department head positions
• Offers to purchase foreclosed properties and approval of Quit Claim Deeds

The Ward County Commission approved $6,229,844.11 in general, park, and road bills, and signed an agreement with Trinity Health for inmate and juvenile health services. It also approved spending up to $8,200 from Asset Forfeiture funds for law enforcement training, approved $21-per-test processing for up to 2,500 COVID rapid antibody tests, and approved several property sales and plats. The library funding shortfall decision was tabled for more information.

• Approved $6,229,844.11 in bills (unanimous)
• Approved Trinity Health inmate/juvenile health services agreement (unanimous)
• Approved $8,200 Asset Forfeiture training request (unanimous)
• Approved COVID test processing for up to 2,500 tests (3-2)
• Approved tax roll adjustments pages 1-4 (unanimous)
• Approved variance for Shane Soltis at 118 Rice Lake Road (unanimous)
• Approved 7 subdivision/plat applications (unanimous)
• Tabled library funding shortfall decision (unanimous)

Ward County Human Service Zone Board

The board will review and file expenditure reports, budget recaps, and revenue reports for December 2020 and January 2021. Members will also discuss updates regarding the Youth Works contract, Covid shelter, and the Kenmare office.

• January 2021 expenditures and bills
• Budget Recap Expenses for December 2020 and January 2021
• Budget Revenue Report for December 2020 and January 2021
• Foster Home Recruitment and Retention Fund review
• Youth Works Contract update

The Ward County Human Service Zone Board unanimously recommended closing its temporary Kenmare office, pending County Commission review. The board also tabled discussion of the agency's Roles Chart until the next meeting. Other actions included approving the agenda, minutes, expenditures, and budget reports, all unanimously.

• Approved agenda for February 16, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of January 5, 2021 (unanimous)
• Received and filed January 2021 expenditures and bills (unanimous)
• Received and filed December 2020 and January 2021 budget recap expense reports (unanimous)
• Received and filed December 2020 and January 2021 budget revenue report (unanimous)
• Recommended closure of temporary Kenmare office to County Commission (unanimous)
• Tabled review of Roles Chart to next meeting (unanimous)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Board of Ward County Commissioners will review and approve the agenda, minutes from February 2 meetings, and bills totaling $616,772.50 plus $5,192.07 in HS Zone Direct Cost bills. They will discuss a detention center amendment and uncollected invoice, an RFP draft for a building inspector position, and pay amendments. The board will also receive and file correspondence, monthly reports, and other items, including an offer to purchase foreclosed property and a raffle permit request.

• Approve bills totaling $616,772.50 and HS Zone Direct Cost bills of $5,192.07
• Detention Center Amendment No. 1 and uncollected invoice
• Building Inspector Position RFP Draft and pay amendments
• Offer to purchase foreclosed property
• Raffle permit for Souris River Basin Longbeards

The Ward County Commission approved an amendment to the Trinity Health agreement for inmate and juvenile health services, increasing the monthly stipend from $1,500 to $4,000. They also approved $616,772.50 in general, park, and road bills, purchased 40 server backup batteries for $23,543, and accepted an offer for a foreclosed property. Several items were received and filed, including reports and correspondence, and a decision on two other property offers was delayed.

• Approved Amendment No. 1 to Trinity Health inmate health services agreement, increasing monthly stipend to $4,000 (all yes)
• Approved general bills totaling $616,772.50 and Human Service Zone direct cost bills of $5,192.07 (all yes)
• Approved purchase of 40 server backup batteries from Northern Power for $23,543.00 (all yes)
• Approved write-off of $120.00 uncollected invoice from Minot Air Force Base (all yes)
• Approved payroll amendments for B. Gilstad, T. Sorgen, and E. Lee (all yes)
• Approved and accepted Michael Pankow's offer of $57,500 plus $20 recording fee for foreclosed property parcel MI150181200100 (all yes)
• Delayed decision on offers for parcels MI018190000050 and MI31D930400090 (4-1, Weppler no)
• Approved raffle permit application from Souris River Basin Longbeards (all yes)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Ward County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular meeting to approve the agenda, minutes, and bills totaling $233,074.70 (plus $2,924.79 in HS Zone direct cost bills). They will also hear reports from department heads, including a jail MOU with the Fargo VA Health System, a request to purchase a NV-C light for the Detention Center, the Emergency Operations Plan, tax roll adjustments, plats, 2021 construction projects, and a building inspector position discussion. The meeting includes a 10-year service award and introductions.

• Approve regular bills totaling $233,074.70 and HS Zone direct cost bills totaling $2,924.79
• MOU between Jail and Fargo VA Health System
• Request to purchase NV-C light for Detention Center
• 2021 Construction Projects by Highway Engineer
• Building Inspector Position Discussion

The Ward County Commission approved the 2021 construction and maintenance projects list, a $35,806 UV-C light for the jail, and a memorandum of understanding with the Fargo VA Health System for inmate telehealth. The board also approved numerous tax roll adjustments, three plat applications, a variance for a garage setback, and the sale of a foreclosed property at 1104 9th St NW, Minot for $45,000. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 2021 construction and maintenance projects (unanimous)
• Approved $35,806 NV-C light for detention center from Inmate Betterment Fund (unanimous)
• Approved MOU between Ward County Jail and Fargo VA Health System for veteran telehealth (unanimous)
• Approved tax roll adjustments as presented (unanimous)
• Approved variance for Aaron and Shantel Ottmar at 7611 Highway 52 South (unanimous)
• Approved plat applications for Sherry Myers, Phillip Knutson, and Wyatt Hansen (unanimous)
• Approved offer to purchase foreclosed property at 1104 9th St NW, Minot for $45,000 (unanimous)
• Approved amending Century 21 contract to add 5 lots for sale at Rice Lake (unanimous)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Ward County Commission approved returning a $30,786 election grant to the Center for Tech and Civic Life, and approved using $30,000 from cash reserve or contingency for a compensation study. They also approved a $3,500 bid to paint around the ND seal, a $7,303 skid steer mower attachment, and a $9,000 AV system for the Highway Department. A motion to purchase patrol vehicles initially failed but a revised motion carried.

• Approved $219,617.68 in general bills and $12,500.69 in Human Service Zone direct cost bills (unanimous)
• Approved R&M Painting bid of $3,500 to paint around ND seal (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 5 patrol vehicles: 2 from Minot Automotive at $32,230 each, 2 from Don Bessette Motors at $32,222 each, and fifth from either (4-1, Rostad no)
• Approved average agricultural land valuation of $566.53 (unanimous)
• Approved tax roll adjustments as presented (unanimous)
• Approved $7,303 purchase of 72-inch Brushcat mower attachment from Swanston Equipment (unanimous)
• Approved up to $9,000 for Highway Department AV system pending IT review (unanimous)
• Approved $30,000 from cash reserve or contingency for compensation study (4-1, Fjeldahl no)

Board of Ward County Commissioners Meeting Agendas

The Ward County Commission will review and approve regular bills totaling $243,501.23, consider several joint powers agreements for the detention center, and discuss a compensation study proposal. They will also address tax roll adjustments, a bridge bundling project engineer selection, and various personnel and policy items. The agenda includes an abatement hearing for Hudye Group, LP for tax years 2018 and 2019.

• Approve regular bills totaling $243,501.23
• Joint Powers Agreements with McHenry, Renville, and Burke Counties for Detention Center
• Selection of Engineer for CE on Bridge Bundling Project
• Approval of 2021 liquor license for Apple Grove 6, LLC
• Abatement hearing for Hudye Group, LP (2018 and 2019)

Ward County Human Service Zone Board

The Ward County Human Service Zone Board unanimously approved moving its regular meetings to the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 7:30 am, and approved a $12,500 contract with Youth Works for 50 days of shelter care. The board also approved the agenda, prior meeting minutes, December expenditures, and November budget reports. Shelly Weppler was appointed Vice Chairperson and Mac McLeod was appointed Secretary for 2021. Discussion on the Kenmare Office was tabled to the February meeting.

• Approved agenda for January 5, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Dec 1 and Dec 15, 2020 meetings (unanimous)
• Received and filed December 2020 expenditures and bills (unanimous)
• Received and filed November 2020 budget recap expense report (unanimous)
• Received and filed November 2020 budget revenue report (unanimous)
• Appointed Shelly Weppler as Vice Chairperson for 2021 (unanimous)
• Appointed Mac McLeod as Secretary for 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved moving meetings to 3rd Tuesday at 7:30 am (unanimous)