Clay County public meetings in 2025

General

The Clay County Board will vote on a notice of intent to sell four parcels of land (OIN# 1665, 1792, 1793 & 1802) related to the Fargo‑Moorhead Area Flood Diversion Project. Other items include hiring requests for an overnight CLIPS position and two registered nurses, and approval of the 2026 Lakeland contracts for the 30‑Day Evaluation Program. The meeting also covers routine consent agenda items, committee assignments for 2026, and a public comment period.

• Notice of intent to sell flood diversion project land – OIN# 1665, 1792, 1793 & 1802
• Request to rehire an open overnight position in the CLIPS unit
• Request to sign 2026 Lakeland contracts for the 30‑Day Evaluation Program (Non‑Secure Program)
• Request to hire two registered nurses for the Withdrawal Management/Detox Facility
• Review of Board committee assignments for 2026

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will meet on Dec 23, 2025 to consider a range of items. Key decisions include adopting the final levy and budget for 2026, approving a temporary 1‑ to 4‑day on‑sale liquor license for the Barnesville Knights of Columbus, and approving a state grant agreement for the Natural Resources Block Grant Program. The board will also authorize requests for proposals for 2026 local homeless prevention aid funds and statewide affordable housing aid funds. Additional items cover contract vouchers, salary resolutions, and program rate approvals.

• Approve temporary 1‑ to 4‑day on‑sale liquor license for Barnesville Knights of Columbus
• Approve State of Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources Natural Resources Block Grant Program Grant Agreement for FY 2026 and 2027
• Authorize request for proposals for 2026 Local Homeless Prevention Aid Funds
• Authorize request for proposals for 2026 Statewide Affordable Housing Aid Funds
• Adopt Clay County Final Levy and Budget 2026 (Resolution 2025‑41)

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The MCCJPA board will review project updates, including a property acquisition report and litigation update. They will discuss relocation reimbursement for OIN 1252 and contracting actions. The main decision item is the BNSF Easement Agreement. The meeting will also cover farmland lease plans for 2026.

• Property Acquisition Status Report (pages 7‑15)
• MN Litigation Action Update (pages 16‑17)
• OIN 1252 Kragerud Relocation Reimbursement Request (pages 26‑55)
• Contracting Actions for MCCJPA (pages 56‑66)
• BNSF Easement Agreement (pages 72‑94)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a Truth in Taxation discussion and review the 2026 Clay County Budget. The meeting includes requests for salary adjustments for the Sheriff and County Attorney's office, as well as a 2026 cost of living adjustment.

• Discussion of 2026 Budget and proposed property tax
• Request for 2026 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA)
• Salary adjustment requests for Clay County Sheriff, County Attorney, and Chief Assistant County Attorney
• Approval of $100 seed money for Recorder's Office online payment bank account
• Renewal of lease contracts with Rural Minnesota CEP, INC and University of Minnesota Extension

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

The board approved the BRR1W1P-2501 contract for a water and sediment control basin project costing $34,232.56. It also approved two $1,000 well‑decommissioning cost‑share contracts and confirmed payment of vouchers 2688‑2699 and QuickBooks checks 22634‑22650. Agenda corrections, meeting minutes, and several reports were adopted, and the January 8, 2026 meeting start time was changed to 8:30 AM.

• Approved BRR1W1P-2501 water & sediment control basin contract for $34,232.56 (motion carried)
• Approved CSXW26-03 well decommissioning cost‑share contract for $1,000 (motion carried)
• Approved CSXW26-02 well decommissioning cost‑share contract for $1,000 (motion carried)
• Approved payment of vouchers #2688‑2699 and QuickBooks checks #22634‑22650 (motion carried)
• Approved agenda corrections to electronic voucher numbers (motion carried)
• Approved the meeting minutes, treasurer’s report, and personnel committee minutes (motion carried)
• Approved change of Jan 8, 2026 meeting start time to 8:30 AM (motion carried)

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

The council unanimously approved the November meeting minutes. The treasurer reported a current balance of $4,992.00 and will request the annual stipend in January. The council announced a family night on December 17 at Career Academy and shared updates from various agencies. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved November meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider the 2026 budget and vote on several staffing and contract items. Items include hiring a general maintenance technician, reappointing a planning commissioner, and posting a request for food service proposals. Supporting resolutions for Dilworth and Hawley LRIP applications will also be approved.

• Request approval to fill the vacant General Maintenance Technician position
• Request approval to reappoint Ashley Heng to a second term on the Planning Commission
• Request approval to post Request for Proposals for Food Services
• Approval of Supporting Resolution 2025-36 for Dilworth's LRIP application
• Approval of Supporting Resolution 2025-37 for Hawley's LRIP application

The Board unanimously approved the agenda, the payment of vendor bills totaling $27,418,887, and the minutes from the November 18, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved filling the vacant General Maintenance Technician position. A treatment‑court update was presented, but no funding motion was voted on.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• Bills and vouchers totaling $27,418,887 approved (unanimous)
• Minutes from November 18, 2025 approved (unanimous)
• Vacant General Maintenance Technician position approved (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board will approve the 2026-2027 MPCA County Feedlot Program Delegation Agreement Work Plan and consider the 2026 budget. The meeting includes presentations on a transmission line project and a railroad needs study.

• Approval of 2026-2027 MPCA County Feedlot Program Delegation Agreement Work Plan
• Presentation on Minnesota Power Maple River to Cuyuna 345 kV Transmission Line Project
• Presentation on FM Metro Railroad Needs Study
• Approval of Resolution 2025-32 for Department of Natural Resource Funding
• 2026 Budget Discussion

The Clay County Board approved its agenda and a $766,827 payment of bills and vouchers. It also approved the MPCA feedlot work plan and four resolutions authorizing DNR trail funding and LRIP applications for CSAH 11, Glyndon and Hitterdal. All actions were carried unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved 2026-2027 MPCA County Feedlot Program Delegation Agreement Work Plan (by consent)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $766,827 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-32 for DNR funding of the Agassiz Recreational Trail (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-33 for LRIP application for CSAH 11 improvement (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-34 supporting City of Glyndon’s LRIP application (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-35 supporting City of Hitterdal’s LRIP application (unanimous)

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority will discuss property acquisition, attorney consultation for settlement negotiations, and reimbursement requests. The board will also review a contract amendment and set 2026 farmland lease rates.

• Executive session for attorney consultation on property interests OIN 5182, 5183, 5785, 7107, 7108, and Miller
• Action on OIN 5182, 5183, 5785, 7107, 7108 Miller (if needed)
• Approval of OIN 1252 Amended Flowage Easement Language
• Review of 2026 Farmland Lease Rates
• Amendment 6 to MCCJPA & Pifer’s Contracting Action Task Order 1

The board approved the settlement with Mark E. Miller and Lisa R. Miller, authorizing a $130,000 payment and up to $19,400 for attorney fees. It also approved a $36,985.20 relocation reimbursement for OIN 1635 and denied a $7,470.59 request for the same OIN. Farmland lease rates were set at $165 per acre for 2026, and an amended flowage easement language for OIN 1252 was approved. The Task Order 1 Amendment 6 for Pifer’s Land Management was also approved.

• Approved $130,000 settlement with Miller (plus up to $19,400 attorney fees)
• Approved $36,985.20 relocation reimbursement for OIN 1635
• Denied $7,470.59 reimbursement request for OIN 1635
• Approved farmland lease rates of $165 per acre for 2026
• Approved amended flowage easement language for OIN 1252
• Approved Task Order 1 Amendment 6 for Pifer’s Land Management

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve bills, minutes, and subdivision requests, and to discuss the 2026 budget and an early retirement incentive program.

• Public hearings for two subdivision requests
• Approval of State Auditor final audit findings
• 2026 Budget Discussion
• Request to consider Early Retirement Incentive Program
• Approval of Operating Guidelines

The board unanimously approved the agenda, the $2,226,028 payment of bills and vouchers, and the minutes from the October 28 and November 4, 2025 meetings. It adopted the Clay County Board of Commissioners Operating Guidelines, effective Jan 6 2026. The board approved the Opatril Subdivision Final Plat based on the Planning Commission recommendation, with a 4‑1 vote. Additional procedural actions included opening and closing public hearings for the Opatril and Manthe subdivision requests.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $2,226,028 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Oct 28 2025 and Nov 4 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Clay County Board of Commissioners Operating Guidelines (unanimous)
• Approved Opatril Subdivision Final Plat (4-1)
• Opened public hearing for Opatril Subdivision (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for Opatril Subdivision (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing for Scot Manthe Subdivision (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Clay County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing regarding a variance request for a proposed cannabis business. The board will determine if the adjacent residential setback can be reduced for the property.

• Public hearing for Scott Dahms (Elevated Dispensaries) regarding a variance for 11649 123rd Ave S, Sabin, MN

The Board approved the meeting agenda and the September 16 minutes, opened and closed the public hearing, and unanimously denied the requested variance to reduce the residential setback for a proposed cannabis business at 11649 123" Ave S in Baker. The Board also set the next meeting for January 27, 2026 and adjourned at 6:45 PM.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 16 minutes (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing (unanimous)
• Denied variance for 11649 123" Ave S cannabis business (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for Jan 27 2026 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:45 PM (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Clay County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on several permit applications, including a conditional use permit to construct rock arch rapids on the Wild Rice River in Hagen Township. Other items include interim use permits for a concrete plant, a gravel mine, and a dog boarding kennel, plus a conditional use to change an accessory use to a principal use. The commission will also consider the re‑appointment of Ashley Heng to a second term.

• Conditional use permit request for rock arch rapids on Wild Rice River, Parcel ID 12.016.2800 (Hagen Township)
• Interim use permit request for concrete plant, Parcel ID 19.017.4200 (Kurtz Township)
• Interim mining permit request for gravel mine, Parcel ID 13.032.1000 (Hawley Township)
• Interim use permit request for dog boarding kennel, Parcel ID 26.018.0201 (Skree Township)
• Conditional use permit request to convert accessory use to principal use, Parcel ID 24.002.1800 (Parke Township)

The commission approved the meeting agenda and the October 21 minutes, both unanimously. It opened and then closed the public hearing on the Wild Rice Watershed District conditional use request, each by unanimous vote. The commission then unanimously granted the Conditional Use Permit for the rock‑arch rapids project with eight specific conditions.

• Approved agenda (unanimously carried)
• Approved October 21, 2025 minutes (unanimously carried)
• Opened public hearing on Wild Rice Watershed District conditional use (unanimously carried)
• Closed public hearing on Wild Rice Watershed District conditional use (unanimously carried)
• Granted Conditional Use Permit for rock‑arch rapids with conditions (unanimously carried)

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

The board approved the meeting agenda, the corrected October minutes, the Treasurer’s report, and the listed vouchers as paid. It voted to cover 100% of the district’s contribution to the Paid Leave program and to allow employees to use PTO to supplement their Paid Leave checks. The board set staff evaluations for December 9 at 10:00 AM and decided not to contribute to the Roseau Soil Health event.

• Approved November agenda (motion carried)
• Approved corrected October meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved Treasurer’s report (motion carried)
• Approved vouchers #2678‑2688 and QuickBook checks #22613‑22633 as paid (motion carried)
• Approved district covering 100% of Paid Leave contribution (motion carried)
• Approved employees using PTO to supplement Paid Leave checks (motion carried)
• Set staff evaluations for December 9 at 10:00 AM (decision made)
• Decided not to contribute $1,500 to Roseau Soil Health event (decision made)

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

The council approved the September meeting minutes with all members voting yes. A correction to the October minutes was adopted, updating the PSJ Fall Conference date to November 18. New elected positions will begin on January 1, 2026, and the first meeting of the year is scheduled for February 5, 2026. Members agreed to volunteer at the Career Academy Family Night in December.

• Approved September meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Corrected October minutes to note PSJ Fall Conference on Nov 18 (unanimous)
• New elected positions to take effect Jan 1, 2026
• Set first 2026 meeting for Feb 5, 2026
• Planned volunteer outreach for Career Academy Family Night in December

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will review and discuss the 2026 budget. They will also consider several contract approvals, staffing replacements, and resolutions related to watershed taxing authority. Additional items include updates on federal program impacts, pollution control funding, and public service agreements.

• Request approval of Resolutions 2025-30 and 2025-31 to support Buffalo-Red River Watershed District taxing authority
• Request approval of Productive Alternatives, Inc. (PAI) contract
• Request approval of the Small Government Enterprise Agreement with ESRI
• Request approval to sign addendum to the Cooperative Service Agreement for the Resource Recovery & Transfer Station
• 2026 Budget Discussion

The Clay County Board unanimously approved its agenda, a donation to the sheriff’s work crew, $5,077,210 in vendor bills, and the October 21 minutes. It also unanimously approved Resolutions 2025‑30 and 2025‑31 supporting the Buffalo‑Red River Watershed District’s 2026 tax levy petitions. The board voted to fill a vacant Child Protection Case Manager position, passing the motion with one descending vote.

• Agenda approved (unanimously carried)
• Donation from Western MN Steam Threshers Reunion approved by consent
• Bills and vouchers totaling $5,077,210 approved (unanimous)
• Minutes from Oct 21, 2025 approved (unanimous)
• Resolution 2025‑30 supporting watershed tax levy petition approved (unanimous)
• Resolution 2025‑31 supporting watershed tax levy petition approved (unanimous)
• Vacant Child Protection Case Manager position filled (carried with one descending vote)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will approve a consent agenda that includes a Motor Vehicle Change Fund increase and a notice of intent to sell flood diversion project land. They will consider Resolution 2025-28 to issue $17,915,000 in general obligation bonds to refund jail costs. Additional items include a lease rate increase for the Family Services Center, joint powers agreements with the Clay‑Becker Partnership4Health Community Health Board, and a resolution urging repeal of Minnesota's nuclear energy moratorium. The meeting also features a 2026 budget discussion and a closed‑session labor‑negotiations discussion.

• Approve $17,915,000 General Obligation Jail Refunding Bonds (Resolution 2025-28)
• Lease rate increase request for the Family Services Center
• Approve Clay‑Becker Partnership4Health Community Health Board joint powers and delegation agreements
• Resolution urging repeal of Minnesota's moratorium on nuclear energy production (Resolution 2025-29)
• Motor Vehicle Change Fund increase (consent agenda item)

The Clay County Board unanimously approved Resolution 2025‑28 to issue $16,270,000 of General Obligation Jail Refunding Bonds. It also approved a $600 increase to the Motor Vehicle Change Fund, declined to purchase any excess flood‑diversion land, and authorized payment of $595,449 in bills and vouchers. All actions were taken by consent or unanimous vote.

• Approved Resolution 2025‑28 authorizing $16,270,000 jail refunding bonds (unanimous)
• Approved $600 Motor Vehicle Change Fund increase (by consent)
• Approved notice to MFDA that County will not purchase excess flood‑diversion land (by consent)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $595,449 to 101 vendors (unanimous)
• Approved agenda for the meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from October 14, 2025 (unanimous)

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The MCCJPA board will review and vote on a relocation reimbursement request identified as OIN 1792 Anderson. The meeting also includes updates on a property acquisition status report presented by Eric and a Minnesota litigation action update presented by Chris. Standard procedural items such as call to order, roll call, agenda and minutes approval, and a public comment period are also on the agenda.

• Relocation reimbursement request – OIN 1792 Anderson
• Property acquisition status report (presented by Eric)
• Minnesota litigation action update (presented by Chris)
• Citizens to be heard – public comment period

The Joint Powers Authority approved its agenda and the minutes from September 25, 2025. It also approved a relocation reimbursement request (OIN 1792) for Jean Anderson in the amount of $1,035. No other actions were taken.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved September 25, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved $1,035 relocation reimbursement for OIN 1792 Jean Anderson (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review the 2026 budget and consider requests for staffing, technology upgrades, and program transitions. The meeting includes presentations on public waters and school district levies and referendums.

• Approval of Mediation Agreement for Resource Recovery Facility
• Request to re-hire two open positions in the Non-Secure CLIPS Unit
• Request to add postage and handling fee to electronic vital record orders
• Transition of Special Needs Basic Care (SNBC) program from Social Service to Public Health
• Request for new electronic storage appliance for criminal justice use

The Clay County Board unanimously approved the agenda, a mediation agreement for the Resource Recovery Center, and vendor bills and vouchers totaling $4,296,768. It also approved re‑hiring two open positions in the Non‑Secure CLIPS Unit, adopted Resolution 2025‑27 supporting Operation Green Light for Veterans, and authorized travel for the County Recorder and a $1 postage fee for electronic vital records.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Mediation Agreement for Resource Recovery Center (by consent)
• Approved $4,296,768 vendor payments and vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved re‑hire of two open positions in the Non‑Secure CLIPS Unit (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑27 Operation Green Light for Veterans (unanimous)
• Approved out‑of‑state travel for County Recorder to NAPHSIS conference (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Clay County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider four land use applications: a gravel mine permit amendment, a community solar garden, and two subdivisions.

• Public hearing for a gravel mine permit amendment on Parcel ID 17.005.2000
• Public hearing for a 1-megawatt community solar garden on Parcel ID 27.004.3000
• Public hearing for a two-lot subdivision on Parcel ID 19.017.4200
• Public hearing for a twelve-lot subdivision on Parcel ID 13.009.3000

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the September 16, 2025 minutes. It opened and then closed a public hearing on an interim use mining permit for a gravel mine on Parcel ID 17.005.2000, and unanimously granted that permit with a list of conditions. The commission also opened a public hearing on a 1‑megawatt community solar garden conditional use permit, but no decision was recorded.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing on interim mining permit (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on interim mining permit (unanimous)
• Granted interim use permit for gravel mine on Parcel 17.005.2000 with conditions (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing on 1‑MW solar garden conditional use permit (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider several consent agenda items, including voting delegate approval for the Annual AMC Conference and cannabis dispensary variance approvals in Baker, MN. The board will approve a 2026–2027 Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) Biennial Service Agreement and receive a notice of intent to sell land associated with the Fargo‑Moorhead excess flood diversion project. Additional actions include adjusting the board meeting schedule, a United Way campaign presentation, and a discussion of the 2026 budget.

• Cannabis dispensary variance approvals in Baker, MN (consent agenda)
• Approval of 2026–2027 Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) Biennial Service Agreement
• Notice of intent to sell Fargo‑Moorhead Area excess flood diversion project land
• Request to adjust the Clay County Board of Commissioners meeting schedule
• 2026 budget discussion

The Clay County Board unanimously approved the agenda and the list of voting delegates for the AMC Conference. It also unanimously approved $1,954,407 in vendor bills and vouchers, the 2026‑2027 MFIP Biennial Service Agreement, and a notification that the county has no interest in purchasing excess flood‑diversion land. Finally, the Board unanimously adjusted the December 2025 meeting schedule.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved voting delegates for AMC Conference (by consent)
• Approved payment of vendor bills and vouchers totaling $1,954,407 (unanimous)
• Approved 2026‑2027 MFIP Biennial Service Agreement and authorized submission (unanimous)
• Notified MFDA that Clay County has no interest in excess land OIN 1834 (unanimous)
• Adjusted December 2025 meeting schedule as proposed (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

The Clay Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved cost‑share payments for three water and sediment control basins totaling $124,008.75 and a $17,393.59 contract for another basin. The board also approved a $983.32 monthly health‑insurance quote, a $2,534.36 annual paid‑leave program quote, and a modest price increase for bareroot trees. All motions were carried.

• Approved WRM 1W1P cost‑share contracts for three basins totaling $124,008.75 (motion carried)
• Approved BRRWD 1W1P cost‑share contract for $17,393.59 (motion carried)
• Approved PEIP health‑insurance quote of $983.32 per month for a single plan (motion carried)
• Approved Shelter Point paid‑leave program quote of $2,534.36 per year (motion carried)
• Approved tree program price recommendation: 5‑10 cent increase for bareroot trees (motion carried)
• Approved payment of vouchers Elect #2664‑2677 and QuickBook checks #22586‑22612 (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will discuss the 2026 budget and consider several personnel and benefit changes. The meeting includes a public hearing regarding a petition to amend the county land development and subdivision ordinance.

• Public hearing: Scott Dahms petition for text amendment to Land Development and Subdivision Ordinance
• Proposed transition of Public Health staff to Social Services
• Acquisition of highway easements for Parcel No. 21.036.0200 and Parcel No. 19.001.0100
• Approval of Limited Use Permit and Supporting Resolution 2025-26
• Discussion of the 2026 Budget

The Clay County Board unanimously approved the meeting agenda, paid $898,387 in bills and vouchers, and adopted proclamations for National 4‑H Week (Oct 5‑11 2025) and Eligibility Worker and Case Aide Month (Oct 2025). It also unanimously approved moving four Public Health full‑time positions to the Social Services Department, effective Jan 1 2026.

• Approved agenda (unanimously)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $898,387 (unanimously)
• Adopted proclamation for National 4‑H Week Oct 5‑11 2025 (unanimously)
• Adopted proclamation for Eligibility Worker and Case Aide Month Oct 2025 (unanimously)
• Approved transfer of 4 Public Health staff positions to Social Services, effective Jan 1 2026 (unanimously)

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

The council approved the September meeting minutes and elected new officers for 2026: Michelle Mullikin as Chair, Lacey Hubert as Vice Chair, and Michelle Thordal as Secretary/Treasurer. The 2026 workplan was approved, and a childcare stipend (including $50 attendance payment, mileage, and $9 per hour daycare reimbursement) was authorized for parents attending LAC meetings. All actions were approved unanimously.

• Approved September meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Michelle Mullikin as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Lacey Hubert as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Michelle Thordal as Secretary/Treasurer (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 workplan (unanimous)
• Approved childcare stipend for parents ($50 + mileage + $9/hr daycare) (unanimous)

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee will meet to approve the agenda and minutes from the August 28, 2025 meeting. The committee will also review the solid waste budget and landfill updates.

• Approval of August 28, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of Solid Waste Budget
• Review of Solid Waste/Landfill Update
• Perham Update presentation

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority will review project updates, including a property acquisition status report and a reimbursement request for culvert installation on OIN 1 842X2 and 1876X2.

• Approval of July 24, 2025 minutes
• Property Acquisition Status Report
• MN Litigation Action Update
• Reimbursement for OIN 1 842X2 and 1876X2 culvert installation
• Payment to MN Commissioners

The council approved the agenda and the July 24 minutes. It authorized a $31,795.55 reimbursement for culvert installation and the release of $15,000 escrow. It also approved invoices from two eminent‑domain commissioners totaling $2,431.08.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved July 24 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved reimbursement of $16,795.55 and release of $15,000 escrow for culvert work (total $31,795.55, motion carried)
• Approved two eminent‑domain commissioner invoices totaling $2,431.08 (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board will consider several approvals, including a contract with Winthrop & Weinstein for lobbyist services and resolutions authorizing a credit‑enhancement agreement with the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority and the sale of jail refunding bonds. Other items include hiring two public‑health positions, filling a full‑time sanitarian role, and purchasing IT network switches. A citizen comment period is also scheduled.

• Approve contract with Winthrop & Weinstein for lobbyist services
• Authorize credit‑enhancement program agreement with Minnesota Public Facilities Authority
• Authorize sale of General Obligation Jail Refunding Bonds, Series 2025A
• Hire two positions in Public Health
• Purchase replacement IT network switches

The board unanimously approved Resolution 2025‑23, setting the date and terms for an online auction of tax‑forfeit parcels beginning November 3, 2025. It also approved a $3.09 million payment of bills, a $358,074 purchase of replacement IT network switches, and a $48,000 lobbyist services contract. The board hired a .8 FTE public‑health analyst/outreach coordinator by a 4‑1 vote, and approved the Crime Victim Services Grant award. A motion to fill a full‑time sanitarian position failed because it lacked a second.

• Approved Tax Abatement for Ulen City/Viking Manor (by consent)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $3,090,382 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑23 for tax‑forfeit property auction starting Nov 3, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of replacement IT network switches for $358,074 (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Winthrop & Weinstein for lobbyist services ($48,000) (unanimous)
• Approved Crime Victim Services Grant Award (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of .8 FTE Public Health Analyst/Child & Teen Checkup Outreach Coordinator (4‑1)
• Motion to fill full‑time Sanitarian position failed (no second)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider several resolutions and contracts, including renewing a joint powers agreement with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and entering a towing agreement with SRD Towing. They will also discuss platting irregular lots in Holy Cross Township, hiring a communications coordinator, and replacing the air‑conditioning unit at the Joint Highway Facility. A public hearing will be held on a petition to amend the County Land Development and Subdivision Ordinance, and a resolution will be considered to set the 2026 preliminary levy.

• Resolution 2025-20: Renew Joint Powers Agreement and Court Services Amendment with MN Bureau of Criminal Apprehension
• Agreement with SRD Towing for towing and storage of seized vehicles
• Resolution 2025-21: Plat irregular lots in Holy Cross Township into lots
• Public hearing on Scott Dahms petition for amendment to the Clay County Land Development and Subdivision Ordinance
• Request to replace the air‑conditioning unit at the Joint Highway Facility

The Clay County Board approved its agenda and paid $1,359,950 in vendor bills. It unanimously renewed the Joint Powers Agreement with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, approved a towing and storage contract with SRD Towing, and authorized platting of irregular lots in Holy Cross Township. The board also unanimously denied hiring a new Communications Coordinator.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $1,359,950 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-20 to renew Joint Powers Agreement with MN BCA (unanimous)
• Approved agreement with SRD Towing for seized vehicle towing and storage (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-21 to plat irregular lots in Holy Cross Township (unanimous)
• Denied hiring a Communications Coordinator (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Clay County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing regarding a variance request for a property in Humboldt Township. The board will determine if the road right-of-way setback can be reduced for an attached garage.

• Public hearing for Michael Ward DBA Benchmark Builders regarding a variance for an attached garage at 21639 162nd Ave, Barnesville, MN

The Board of Adjustment approved the meeting agenda and the August 19th minutes, each unanimously. After a public hearing, the Board unanimously granted a variance allowing the garage to be placed 66 feet from the road centerline, rather than the required 90 feet, with that condition attached. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 5:50 PM.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved August 19 minutes (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing on variance request (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing (unanimous)
• Granted variance with condition: addition no closer than 66 ft to road centerline (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three land-use requests. The body will also recommend an appointee for the Moorhead Wellhead Protection Plan Amendment Team.

• Conditional use permit for an event center at 158 80th St. S, Glyndon
• Mining permit amendment for Westlund Materials LLC in Keene Township
• Conditional use permit to convert accessory use to principal use in Hawley Township
• Recommendation for a Planning Commissioner to join the Moorhead Wellhead Protection Team
• Withdrawal of subdivision and rezoning requests by Concrete Holdings, LLC

The commission opened and closed public hearings for three applications. It granted a Conditional Use Permit for an event/retreat center at 158 80th St. S in Glyndon with specific operating conditions. It also granted an Interim Use Permit amendment for Westlund Materials LLC, allowing mining on up to 39.5 acres and removing the groundwater buffer condition, with a set of detailed environmental and operational conditions. All actions were carried out by unanimous vote.

• Approved agenda (unanimously)
• Approved August 19, 2025 minutes (unanimously)
• Granted Conditional Use Permit for Roy and Teresa Gilbertson event center with conditions (unanimously)
• Granted Interim Use Permit amendment for Westlund Materials LLC mining operation with conditions (unanimously)

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

The board approved the meeting agenda and the prior meeting minutes. It approved the Treasurer's report, paid vouchers, and several cost‑share contracts totaling $3,800. The board also approved the SWCD Financial Policy and authorized the District Manager to sign cover‑crop applications on its behalf.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved August meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved Treasurer's report (motion carried)
• Approved vouchers paid (Elect #2652‑2663, checks #22561‑22585) (motion carried)
• Approved RCPP cost‑share contract T. Jensen $1,800 for cover planting (motion carried)
• Approved cost‑share contracts S. Schroeder $1,000 and B. Buth $1,000 for well decommissioning (motion carried)
• Approved SWCD Financial Policy (motion carried)
• Authorized District Manager to sign Cover Crop applications (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider several items, including a resolution to repurchase tax‑forfeited property (Resolution 2025‑19). They will also vote on hiring an engineering technician and a senior engineering technician, and on issuing a request for proposals for disability employment services. A budget review of penetration testing for technology services will be discussed. The meeting also includes routine approvals of minutes, bills, and a new employee introduction.

• Resolution 2025‑19 to repurchase tax‑forfeited property
• Hire Engineering Technician and Senior Engineering Technician
• Release Request for Proposal for Disability Employment Services
• Budget item review – penetration testing for technology services
• Clay County Extension new employee introduction

The Clay County Board approved $671,632 in vendor payments, hired an Engineering Technician/Senior Engineering Technician, authorized a Request for Proposal for Disability Employment Services, and approved Resolution 2025‑19 to repurchase a tax‑forfeited property at 1312 Sunset Blvd. All actions were carried unanimously.

• Approved payment of vendor bills totaling $671,632 (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of an Engineering Technician/Senior Engineering Technician (unanimous)
• Approved release of RFP for Disability Employment Services (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑19 to repurchase tax‑forfeited property at 1312 Sunset Blvd (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners held a work‑group session on September 9, 2025 to discuss the upcoming 2026 budget. No formal actions were taken; the meeting was for discussion only. Residents were invited to address the board with brief comments on any county‑government issue.

• 2026 Budget Discussion
• Citizens to be Heard – public comment period (up to three minutes per speaker)
• Call to Order
• Adjournment at 3:30 p.m.

The board approved a $213,000 economic development budget and moved the $48,000 lobbyist allocation into it. It decided not to fill the vacant communications coordinator role, saving roughly $100,000, and cut the Cultural Diversity Resources request of $3,5000 and the Lakes & Prairies Community Action Partnership Rural Routes request of $56,778. The highway striping budget was reduced from $400,000 to $200,000, bringing the net levy down to 7.88%.

• Adopted Economic Development budget line item totaling $213,000
• Reallocated $48,000 lobbyist funds into Economic Development budget
• Decided not to fill Communications Coordinator position, saving roughly $100,000
• Cut Cultural Diversity Resources request of $3,5000
• Cut Lakes & Prairies Community Action Partnership Rural Routes request of $56,778
• Reduced Highway striping budget from $400,000 to $200,000

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

The council voted to approve the May 2025 meeting minutes after a motion by Mary and a second by Michelle. The group discussed bylaws, upcoming officer elections, and plans for future volunteer activities, but no further formal actions were taken. The next meeting is scheduled for October 2, 2025.

• Approved May meeting minutes (motion passed)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board will consider several staffing and budget items, including hiring a motor grader operator and a public health administrator, and a proposal to make Detox/WM a standalone department. The main agenda item is the discussion and approval of the 2026 Paid Family Medical Leave Plan. The meeting also includes a budget presentation for probation, a request for ancillary insurance offerings, and a request for the Housing and Redevelopment Authority to levy a special benefit tax.

• Request approval to hire a motor grader operator
• Request approval for the Housing and Redevelopment Authority to levy a special benefit tax
• Discussion and approval of the 2026 Paid Family Medical Leave Plan
• Request approval to make Detox/WM a standalone department
• 2026 budget discussion

The Board approved a $300,000 special benefit tax for the Housing and Redevelopment Authority with a 4‑1 vote. It also unanimously approved payment of $2,180,712 in bills, hiring a motor grader operator, ancillary insurance offerings, the Paid Family Medical Leave plan, and the creation of a standalone Detox/Withdrawal Management department. Additional unanimous actions included filling the Public Health Administrator position and approving the opioid settlement information and a gambling permit by consent.

• Approved $300,000 HRA special benefit tax for 2026 (4-1)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $2,180,712 (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of a Motor Grader Operator for Highway Department (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 ancillary insurance offerings (unanimous)
• Approved Paid Family Medical Leave plan with United Healthcare for 2026‑2027 (unanimous)
• Approved creation of standalone Detox/Withdrawal Management department and reclassification of director (unanimous)
• Approved fill of Public Health Administrator position with backfill (unanimous)
• Approved National Opioid Settlement information and LG220 gambling permit by consent

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will vote on a 2026 insurance broker partnership and approve the 2026 health insurance renewal. Other agenda items include a consent agenda for a Minnesota Lawful Gambling LG220 exempt permit for Ducks Unlimited bingo/raffle, approvals for an assistant county attorney position, an artificial intelligence policy, and TCP scheduling software for the withdrawal management/detox facility, as well as budget presentations for social services and solid waste.

• Minnesota Lawful Gambling LG220 Exempt Permit for Clay County Ducks Unlimited bingo/raffle (consent agenda)
• Request approval to fill the Assistant County Attorney position
• Request approval to adopt an Artificial Intelligence policy
• Request approval to purchase TCP scheduling software for the Withdrawal Management/Detox Facility
• Discussion and approval of the 2026 Insurance Broker Partnership and health insurance renewal

The Clay County Board unanimously approved the county’s 2026‑2027 health insurance renewal with Medica, projecting a $425,974 savings. It also adopted an Artificial Intelligence policy, hired an Assistant County Attorney, and approved purchase of TCP scheduling software for the detox facility. Additionally, the board approved a new insurance broker, paid $1,722,292 in bills, and granted an exempt gambling permit to Ducks Unlimited.

• Approved Medica health insurance plan for 2026‑2027 (unanimous)
• Adopted Artificial Intelligence Policy (unanimous)
• Approved hiring Assistant County Attorney (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of TCP Scheduling Software for Withdrawal Management/Detox Facility (unanimous)
• Approved hiring Choice Insurance as broker effective 1/1/2026 (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $1,722,292 in bills and vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved exempt gambling LG220 permit for Clay County Ducks Unlimited (by consent)
• Approved agenda and minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners held a work‑group session to discuss several updates. Topics included federal funding and grant status, the Bright Sky and Silver Linings programs, the HRA office relocation, and SAHA funding for 2026. Commissioners also reviewed a proposal for a 2026 HRA levy. The meeting concluded with an open public comment period.

• Federal Funding and Grants Update
• Bright Sky and Silver Linings Update
• HRA Office Relocation Update
• SAHA Funding Update for 2026
• 2026 HRA Levy Proposal Discussion

The Board received updates on federal and state housing grants, the status of several HRA projects, and the upcoming 2026 levy timeline. No votes or formal approvals were recorded; the Board indicated it will consider the levy request later.

Board of Commissioners

The Board will approve routine items on the consent agenda, including a donation from Johnson's Auto Repair to the Sheriff's Office K9 program, payment of bills, and minutes from the August 5 meeting. Commissioners will consider a request to fill a full‑time detox technician position and hear a budget presentation from the FMWF Chamber and GFM EDC – Innovate28. The meeting also includes a closed‑session discussion on labor negotiations, a strategic discussion on lobbyist engagement, and committee reports.

• Donation from Johnson's Auto Repair to the Sheriff's Office K9 program (consent agenda)
• Request approval to fill a full‑time detox technician position
• Budget presentation by FMWF Chamber and GFM EDC – Innovate28
• Closed‑session board discussion on labor negotiations per Minn. Stat. 13D.03
• Strategic discussion on lobbyist engagement for legislative advocacy

The board unanimously approved a donation of $88 to the Sheriff's Office K9 program and approved payment of $1,546,767 in bills and vouchers. It also unanimously approved filling a budgeted full‑time Detox Technician position. The board entered and exited a closed session for labor negotiations and unanimously authorized the County Administrator to investigate lobbyist proposals for legislative representation.

• Approved $88 donation to Sheriff's Office K9 program (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $1,546,767 in bills and vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved hiring full-time Detox Technician for Withdrawal Management Facility (unanimous)
• Approved agenda for the meeting (unanimous)
• Approved closed session for labor negotiations (unanimous)
• Approved investigation of lobbyist proposals for 2025 legislation representation (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Clay County Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on three variance applications. Each applicant seeks to reduce the mining road right‑of‑way setback on a specific parcel. The board will consider the requests from Northern Improvement Co., Alexandria Gravel Products, and Westlund Excavating.

• Northern Improvement Co. – variance to reduce mining road setback on Parcel ID 27.002.0100 (Spring Prairie Township)
• Alexandria Gravel Products – after‑the‑fact variance to reduce mining road setback on Parcel ID 11.007.3700 (Goose Prairie Township)
• Westlund Excavating – after‑the‑fact variance to reduce mining road setback on Parcel IDs 17.030.000 and 17.031.0100 (Keene Township)

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the July 15 minutes. It granted Northern Improvement Co. a variance to mine as close as 43 feet from the right‑of‑way of County Road 26, with a 200‑foot stockpiling restriction. It also granted Alexandria Gravel Products a variance permitting a scale house 175 feet off the centerline of CSAH 33, with a 200‑foot setback restriction on other mining activities.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved July 15 minutes (unanimous)
• Granted Northern Improvement Co. variance: mining allowed 43 ft from County Road 26 ROW; no stockpiling within 200 ft (unanimous)
• Granted Alexandria Gravel Products variance: scale house allowed 175 ft off CSAH 33 centerline; no other mining within 200 ft setback (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing for Northern Improvement Co. (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for Northern Improvement Co. (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing for Alexandria Gravel Products (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for Alexandria Gravel Products (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Clay County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on four conditional use applications: a substation for Minnkota Power Cooperative, a 1‑megawatt community solar garden for Novel Energy Solutions, a cannabis microbusiness for Sota Sown Cannabis, and an interim mining permit amendment for Westlund Materials. A petition to amend the land development ordinance to allow cannabis businesses in the Agricultural Service Center zoning district will also be considered. The meeting includes routine items such as approval of minutes and unfinished business.

• Conditional use permit request for a substation at 5019 90th St S, Glyndon (Parcel ID 10.033.1101)
• Conditional use permit request for a 1‑MW community solar garden on Parcel ID 08.034.2500 in Flowing Township
• Conditional use permit request for a cannabis microbusiness at 22321 Highway 10, Hawley (Parcel ID 13.055.0030)
• Interim use‑mining permit amendment for Westlund Materials on Parcel ID 17.012.4000 in Keene Township
• Petition to amend the Land Development Ordinance to allow cannabis businesses in Agricultural Service Center zoning

The commission unanimously approved a Conditional Use Permit for Minnkota Power Cooperative to rebuild and expand a substation at 5019 90 St S, Glyndon, with six specified conditions. It also unanimously granted Westlund Materials LLC an Interim Use Permit amendment for a gravel mine on Parcel ID 17.012.4000, adding revised operating‑date conditions and other requirements. Finally, the commission unanimously approved a Conditional Use Permit for Novel Energy Solutions to develop a 1‑megawatt community solar garden on Parcel ID 08.034.2500, subject to multiple conditions.

• Granted Conditional Use Permit for Minnkota Power substation (unanimous)
• Granted Interim Use Permit amendment for Westlund Materials gravel mine (unanimous)
• Granted Conditional Use Permit for Novel Energy Solutions solar garden (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

The Clay Soil & Water Conservation District board approved its agenda, July meeting minutes, the Treasurer's report, and a list of vouchers for payment. It also approved several cost‑share contracts for water‑sediment control basins, a field windbreak, a farmstead windbreak, and two well decommissionings. Additionally, the board formed a committee to address the equipment and tree‑storage lease. All motions were carried.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved July meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved Treasurer's report (motion carried)
• Approved payment of vouchers Elect #2637‑2651 and Quick Book checks #22502‑22560 (motion carried)
• Approved WR‑M 1W1P water‑sediment control basin projects ($3,413.95 and $55,268.84) (motion carried)
• Approved RCPP field windbreak contract $4,002.63 (motion carried)
• Approved State cost‑share contracts: farmstead windbreak $1,740.63 and two well decommissionings $1,000 each (motion carried)
• Approved formation of equipment/tree storage lease committee (Schellack/Fuglie) (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board will approve the agenda and hear public comments. Commissioners will vote on a request to hire a full‑time deputy after a resignation. Several agency budget presentations will be reviewed, including the Lake Agassiz Regional Library, Lakes & Prairies Community Action Partnership, Downtown Moorhead Inc., and Public Health. A closed‑session will address the County Administrator’s annual evaluation.

• Request approval to hire a full‑time deputy due to a resignation
• Budget presentation – Lake Agassiz Regional Library
• Budget presentation – Lakes & Prairies Community Action Partnership (CAPLP) 2024 Annual Report
• Budget presentation – Downtown Moorhead Inc.
• Closed session: County Administrator's annual evaluation

The Board unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the payment of bills and vouchers totaling $999,375. It also unanimously approved hiring a full-time Deputy Sheriff with backfill. In closed session, the Board unanimously approved both entering and exiting the session and recommended a step increase for the County Administrator.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $999,375 (unanimous)
• Approved hiring a full-time Deputy Sheriff with backfill (unanimous)
• Approved moving into closed session at 10:52 a.m. (unanimous)
• Approved exiting closed session at 11:43 a.m. (unanimous)
• Approved County Administrator’s annual evaluation and recommended a step increase (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider several approvals, including a professional services agreement for MCAPS maintenance and a notice of intent to sell flood‑diversion project land. They will hear public petitions to rezone a BIG IRON Properties site and to adopt the final plat for the BIG IRON Subdivision. Additional items include requests for a FEMA hazard‑mitigation grant, hiring a full‑time deputy auditor, and purchasing two 30‑yard dumpsters.

• Ratify Professional Services Agreement with Minnesota Counties Computer Cooperative and Strategic Technologies Inc. for MCAPS maintenance
• Notice of Intent to Sell Fargo‑Moorhead Area Flood Diversion Project Land
• Public hearing on BIG IRON Properties LLC petition to rezone
• Request approval to accept FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant and apply for MN DNR Flood Hazard Mitigation Grant
• Request approval to purchase two 30‑yard dumpsters for solid waste and facilities

The Clay County Board approved several consent items, including a professional services agreement, a notice of intent not to purchase excess flood diversion lands, and a resolution designating an education system official. It also approved $2,510,541 in vendor payments and the amended purchase price for Unit 108. The Board unanimously rezoned a 40‑acre property from Agricultural General to Highway Commercial, contingent on the final plat approval, and then approved the Big Iron Subdivision final plat.

• Ratified Professional Services Agreement with Strategic Technologies Inc. (by consent)
• Notified MFDA of intent not to purchase excess flood diversion lands OIN 7004 & OIN 9347 (by consent)
• Approved National Opioid Settlement Information (by consent)
• Approved Resolution 2025-18 designating an Identified Official for education secure websites (by consent)
• Approved amended purchase price of $43,771.83 for Unit 108 (by consent)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $2,510,541 (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 40‑acre parcel from Agricultural General to Highway Commercial, contingent on final plat (unanimous)
• Approved Big Iron Subdivision final plat (unanimous)

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee will review a proposed purchase of dumpsters for the county. They will also receive updates on the MPCA landfill inspection, overall solid waste and landfill operations, and a report from Perham. The meeting includes routine approvals of the agenda and minutes from the June 12 meeting.

• Dumpsters Purchase – presentation by Corey Bang
• MPCA at Landfill – update by Corey Bang
• Solid Waste/Landfill Update – presentation by Corey Bang
• Perham Update – presentation by Kevin Campbell

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee approved an amended agenda and the June 12 minutes, both unanimously. It then voted unanimously to recommend purchasing two 30‑yard roll‑off dumpsters from Olympic Sales, with the county facilities department covering half the cost of one unit. The recommendation will be presented to the full Clay County Board at its next meeting. No formal action was taken on the MPCA landfill violation beyond plans to test and clean the area.

• Approved amended meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from June 12, 2025 (unanimous)
• Recommended purchase of two 30‑yard dumpsters from Olympic Sales (unanimous, to be taken to County Board)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The joint powers authority will discuss updates on property acquisition and litigation, then consider the OIN 1305 Mortenson reimbursement request. They will also review administrative filings for parcel splits and an excess land recommendation (OIN 1834). The meeting concludes with standard procedural items.

• Property Acquisition Status Report (Eric) – pages 6‑14
• MN Litigation Action Update (Chris) – pages 15‑16
• OIN 1305 Mortenson Reimbursement Request (Katie) – pages 17‑31
• Administrative platting and affidavits for parcel splits/combinations (Eric) – pages 32‑60
• OIN 1834 Excess Land Recommendation (Eric) – pages 61‑68

The authority approved a reimbursement of $8,225 for relocation claim OIN 1305. It approved signing affidavits to split and combine parcels in Section 8 of Holy Cross Township. It declared the 9.5‑acre parcel OIN 1834 excess land and authorized the sale process as outlined in policy. The agenda and the June 30, 2025 minutes were also approved.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved minutes from June 30, 2025 (motion carried)
• Approved reimbursement request OIN 1305 for $8,225.00 (motion carried)
• Approved signing affidavits for parcel splits/combinations in Section 8 Holy Cross Township (motion carried)
• Declared OIN 1834 excess land and authorized sale process (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider a budget presentation for the West Central Regional Juvenile Center. They will also vote on filling a vacant social worker position in the Adult and Behavioral Health Division and on leasing a department vehicle for the Social Services Fraud Unit. A closed‑session will be held to discuss a contract involving the County Attorney’s Office and the County Administrator.

• Request approval to fill vacant social worker position in the Adult and Behavioral Health Division
• Request approval to lease a department vehicle for the Social Services Fraud Unit
• Budget presentation for the West Central Regional Juvenile Center
• Closed‑session contract discussion with Katie Stock (County Attorney’s Office) and Stephen Larson (County Administrator)
• Citizen comments and approval of agenda, payment of bills, and minutes from July 8, 2025

The Clay County Board approved several items, including the proclamation of Maureen Kelly Jonson Day and payment of $1,183,181 in vendor bills. It also approved hiring one full‑time social worker for the Adult and Behavioral Health Division and leasing an unmarked vehicle for the Social Services Fraud Unit. The Board entered and exited a closed‑session for contract discussion.

• Approved agenda addition to proclaim Maureen Kelly Jonson Day (unanimously)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $1,183,181 (unanimously)
• Approved hiring of one full‑time Social Worker for Adult & Behavioral Health Division (unanimously)
• Approved lease of an unmarked department vehicle for Social Services Fraud Unit (unanimously)
• Approved proclamation of July 21, 2025 as Maureen Kelly Jonson Day (unanimously)
• Approved to go into closed session at 9:11 a.m. for contract discussion (unanimously)
• Approved to come out of closed session at 9:55 a.m. (unanimously)

Planning Commission

The Clay County Planning Commission will consider two interim mining permits and two conditional use permits. Applicants include Northwest Excavating LLC and Asplin Excavating Inc for mining expansions, SeFin Zeki for a principal‑use conversion at 9032 7th St N, and Northern Growers LLC for a cannabis microbusiness at 952 50th Ave S. The meeting also includes public hearings, updates on planning violations, and other agenda items.

• Northwest Excavating LLC – interim use mining permit for SW1/4 of Section 8, Township 138N, Range 45W, Parcel 26.008.3000, Skree Township
• Asplin Excavating Inc – interim use mining permit to expand in SW1/4 of Section 20, Township 139N, Range 45W, Parcel 13.020.3000, Hawley Township
• SeFin Zeki – conditional use permit to change accessory use to principal use at 9032 7th St N, Moorhead, MN 56560 (Parcel ID 18.055.0307, Lots 007‑010, Block 003, Harlow Estates Subdivision)
• Northern Growers LLC – conditional use permit to establish a cannabis microbusiness at 952 50th Ave S, Moorhead, MN 56560 (Parcel ID 21.029.4308, SW1/4 of Section 29, Township 139N, Range 48W)

The commission opened public hearings for Northwest Excavating LLC and Asplin Excavating Inc and then unanimously approved interim use mining permits for both. The Northwest Excavating permit expires Dec 31 2035 and includes conditions on dust control, reclamation bonding, and wetland compliance. The Asplin Excavating permit expires Dec 31 2034 and carries similar land‑development and environmental conditions. All agenda and prior minutes were also approved unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved June 24 minutes (unanimous)
• Granted Northwest Excavating LLC interim mining permit (unanimous)
• Granted Asplin Excavating Inc interim mining permit (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Clay County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing regarding a variance request. The board is reviewing a request to deviate from minimum lot size standards for a specific property in Tansem Township.

• Public hearing for John & Lorna Ihle regarding a variance to minimum lot size standards at 27451 S. Hwy 34, Barnesville, MN

The Clay County Board of Adjustment unanimously granted the variance requested by John and Lorna Ihle for the parcel at 27451 S. Hwy 34. The variance was approved with the condition that both properties have compliant septic systems. The motion passed unanimously.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimously)
• Approved minutes from June 24, 2025 (unanimously)
• Opened public hearing for variance request (unanimously)
• Closed public hearing (unanimously)
• Granted variance for 27451 S. Hwy 34 with septic‑system condition (unanimously)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:59 PM (unanimously)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board will consider a consent agenda that includes use of riparian aid funds for weed control, a donation to the sheriff's K9 program, and a lawful gambling permit application. Commissioners will vote on hiring a full-time deputy sheriff, purchasing Cradlepoints for the sheriff's office, hiring a motor grader operator, and replacing a public‑health registered nurse. Several departments will present budget updates, including the Barnesville Ambulance, Soil & Water Conservation District, Assessor's Office, and Facilities Department, followed by a discussion of federal SNAP and medical assistance reforms and a 2026 budget update.

• Approve hiring a full‑time deputy sheriff to fill a resignation
• Approve purchase of Cradlepoints for the Sheriff's Office
• Approve hiring a motor grader operator
• Approve replacement of a registered nurse position in Public Health
• Budget presentations for Barnesville Ambulance and other county departments

The Clay County Board unanimously approved the agenda, $5,040.59 riparian aid for weed control, a $15 donation to the sheriff's K9 program, and $51,315.76 for Cradlepoint routers. It also unanimously approved $841,837 in vendor payments, hiring a full‑time deputy sheriff, and hiring a motor grader operator. The board approved a full‑time public‑health registered nurse with one dissenting vote.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved $5,040.59 riparian aid for weed control (by consent)
• Approved $15 donation to Sheriff's Office K9 program (by consent)
• Approved $841,837 payment of bills and vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of full‑time Deputy Sheriff (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Cradlepoints for Sheriff's Office, $51,315.76 total (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of Motor Grader Operator for Highway Department (unanimous)
• Approved advertising and hiring of full‑time Registered Nurse for Public Health (carried with one descending vote)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will vote on several requests, including a Memorandum of Understanding with Ulen‑Hitterdal School District for a School Resource Officer program. Other items include hiring a full‑time deputy auditor for motor vehicles, replacing a child‑protection social worker, and approving a joint powers agreement with the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension for federal background checks. The meeting also includes fee‑setting actions and budget presentations for several county departments.

• Approve Memorandum of Understanding with Ulen‑Hitterdal School District for the School Resource Officer (SRO) Program
• Approve hiring of a full‑time Deputy Auditor – Motor Vehicle
• Approve replacement of a Social Worker position in Child Protection Services due to resignation
• Approve Joint Powers Agreement with the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension for Federal Background Checks
• Approve fee changes for Judicial Security legislation and online real estate records

The Clay County Board approved a three‑year MOU with Ulen‑Hitterdal School District for a School Resource Officer program, hired a full‑time Deputy Auditor for Motor Vehicles, and backfilled a vacant Child Protection Social Worker. It also authorized a Joint Powers Agreement for federal background checks, funded Land Records expenses at $105,000, and set new fees for judicial security notices and online real‑estate records.

• Approved MOU with Ulen‑Hitterdal School District for SRO program (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of full‑time Deputy Auditor for Motor Vehicles (unanimous)
• Approved replacement of Social Worker in Child Protection Services (unanimous)
• Approved execution of Joint Powers Agreement with BCA for federal background checks (unanimous)
• Approved $105,000 expense for Land Records Departments for 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved $75 fee for each judicial security real‑property notice under Statute 480.50 (unanimous)
• Approved fee increase for online real‑estate records: $0.40 per printed page and $0.20 per overage minute (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing to consider changes to Chapter 6-1 of the County Code governing Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems. The board will also vote on a low‑bid contract for the Joint Highway Facility roof replacement and approve a memorandum of understanding with Minnesota State University Moorhead for a violence‑prevention project. Additional items include staffing approvals for a juvenile detention worker and a public health nurse, and several budget presentations for GIS, planning, zoning, and technology services.

• Public hearing on amendments to Clay County Code Chapter 6-1 Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems
• Approval of low‑bid contract for Joint Highway Facility roof replacement
• Approval of MOU with Minnesota State University Moorhead for Violence Prevention Project
• Approval to fill open Juvenile Detention Worker position in Secure Detention
• Budget presentations for GIS & Communications, Planning & Zoning, and Technology Services

The Clay County Board approved $28.7 M in vendor payments and several contracts, including a $438,867 roof replacement and a $4.43 M urban reconstruction bid. It also approved a Memorandum of Understanding with MSUM for a violence‑prevention program, filled a juvenile detention worker position, and authorized hiring a full‑time public‑health nurse. Finally, the board adopted ordinance 2025‑06 amending the Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems code.

• Approved $28,653,011 in bills and vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved low bid $438,867 for Joint Highway Facility roof replacement (unanimous)
• Approved MOU with Minnesota State University Moorhead for Violence Prevention Project (unanimous)
• Approved filling open Juvenile Detention Worker position (unanimous)
• Approved hiring full‑time Registered Nurse for Public Health (unanimous)
• Approved low bid $4,434,546.77 from Sellin Brothers for Urban Reconstruction project (unanimous)
• Approved low bid $109,606.19 from Sir Lines‑A‑Lot for County‑wide striping project (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance 2025‑06 amending Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems code (unanimous)

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority will receive updates on property acquisitions and Minnesota litigation. The board will also review a flowage easement negotiation and a reimbursement request.

• Property Acquisition Status Report
• MN Litigation Action Update
• OIN 1267 1268 Blilie Settlement Summary
• OIN 1305 Mortenson Amended Flowage Easement negotiation
• OIN 1689 1690 1785 1868 Ueland Reimbursement Request

The Joint Powers Authority approved the ring‑levee design plan for OINs 1267 and 1268. It also approved amended language for the OIN 1305 flowage easement, lease termination letters for OINs 1794/1795, 1826 and 1792, and a $19,995 reimbursement request for OIN 1689‑1868. No further action was taken on the construction‑impact drainage issue.

• Approved ring‑levee design plan for OINs 1267 and 1268 (motion carried)
• Approved amended flowage easement language for OIN 1305 (motion carried)
• Approved lease termination letters for OINs 1794/1795, 1826, and 1792 (one descending vote, motion carried)
• Approved reimbursement request for OIN 1689‑1868 in the amount of $19,995.00 (motion carried)
• Approved agenda with addition on construction impacts to ditch drainage (motion carried)
• Approved minutes from May 22, 2025 (motion carried)

Planning Commission

The Clay County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on three applications: a temporary agricultural tourism permit at 12506 20th St N, a rezoning petition to change a Karlstrom Farms parcel from Agricultural General to Highway Commercial, and a request to replat that parcel into a 13‑lot commercial/industrial subdivision. The meeting will also include routine agenda approval, minutes approval, and updates on planning violations.

• Interim use permit request for agricultural tourism at 12506 20th St N, Moorhead (Parcel ID 18.015.2001)
• Petition to rezone Parcel ID 19.052.0010 (Karlstrom Farms Subdivision) from Agricultural General to Highway Commercial
• Request to replat Parcel ID 19.052.0010 into a 13‑lot commercial and industrial subdivision

The Planning Commission opened and later closed a public hearing on a temporary interim use permit for agricultural tourism at 12506 20" St N, Moorhead, MN. After discussion, the commission unanimously approved the interim use permit with specific conditions, including licensing, parking requirements, and a permit expiration of December 31, 2030. Events may be held each year from May 1 through November 1.

• Opened public hearing on interim use permit (unanimously)
• Closed public hearing (unanimously)
• Granted interim use permit with conditions (unanimously)

Board of Adjustment

The Clay County Board of Adjustment will meet to conduct a public hearing regarding a property line setback variance. The board will also review minutes from the April 15, 2025 meeting.

• Public hearing for Ryan Zimmerman regarding a variance to the property line setback for Parcel ID: 23.011.4800 in Oakport Township

The Board approved the meeting agenda and the April 15th minutes, both unanimously. A public hearing on Ryan Zimmerman's variance request was opened and closed unanimously. The Board unanimously granted the variance, requiring a licensed land surveyor to locate the property line and an encroachment easement to be recorded. The meeting was adjourned at 5:53 PM.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 15, 2025 (unanimous)
• Public hearing opened (unanimous)
• Public hearing closed (unanimous)
• Granted variance with conditions: licensed surveyor locate line; encroachment easement recorded (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:53 PM (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve bills, discuss the Dancing Sky Area Agency on Aging budget, open a bid for a Joint Highway Facility, and hold a closed session regarding pending litigation.

• Approval of bills and vouchers
• Bid opening for Joint Highway Facility
• Approval to fill LPN position at Withdrawal Management/Detox Facility
• Presentation of Award for Withdrawal Management/Detox Program
• Closed session for pending litigation discussion

The Board unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the payment of $966,134 in bills and vouchers. It also approved hiring a full‑time LPN for the Withdrawal Management/Detox Facility and authorized the 179D energy‑efficiency tax credit allocation for Klein McCarthy Architects. The Board entered and exited a closed session to discuss pending litigation.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $966,134 (unanimous)
• Approved hiring and advertising a full‑time LPN position with backfill for the Detox Facility (unanimous)
• Approved 179D tax credit allocation letter for Klein McCarthy Architects (unanimous)
• Approved entering closed session for litigation discussion (unanimous)
• Approved exiting closed session (unanimous)

General

The Board of Appeal and Equalization is meeting to review property assessment appeals for 2025. The board will hear scheduled appeals from specific property owners and any unscheduled appeals.

• Appeal for Ross & Paige Jacobs (PID 27.033.4301)
• Appeal for William Davis RLT (PIDs 25.020.1000, 25.020.2000, 25.019.1000, 25.019.4000)

The Board of Appeal and Equalization unanimously approved an adjusted estimated market value of $589,700 for the Jacobs parcel (PID 27.033.4301). It also approved tillable‑land acre value adjustments for William Davis’s parcels: $5,782 per acre for parcels 25.020.1000 and 25.020.2000, and $7,200 per acre for parcels 25.019.1000 and 25.019.4000. All motions were carried without opposition.

• Approved adjusted market value $589,700 for Jacobs parcel (PID 27.033.4301) – unanimous
• Adjusted tillable‑land acres to $5,782/acre for parcels 25.020.1000 and 25.020.2000 – unanimous
• Adjusted tillable‑land acres to $7,200/acre for parcels 25.019.1000 and 25.019.4000 – unanimous

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will review contract amendments for medical centers and grant agreements. The board is also considering a timeline waiver for a public hearing regarding a proposed Tax Increment Financing District for Creative Rentals.

• Proposed 30-day timeline waiver for public hearing on Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-11: Creative Rentals
• Contract amendments for Sanford Medical Center Fargo and Prairie St. John’s
• Draft contract for the Restorative Practices Initiatives Grant
• A Peace of My Mind Contract with Positive Community Norms Grant
• Proclamation for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

The Clay County Board unanimously approved amendments to contracts with Sanford Medical Center Fargo and Prairie St. John’s to reflect 2025 statutory updates that allow Minnesota residents on probation or parole to receive involuntary mental health treatment. The Board also approved the draft contract for the $230,000 Restorative Practices Initiatives Grant and signed a 30‑day timeline waiver for a public hearing on Tax Increment Financing District No. 1‑11: Creative Rentals. All actions were approved without dissent.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved 'A Peace of My Mind' contract with Positive Community Norms grant (by consent)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $1,164,868 (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (unanimous)
• Approved contract amendments with Sanford Medical Center Fargo and Prairie St. John’s to reflect 2025 statutory updates (unanimous)
• Approved draft contract for Restorative Practices Initiatives Grant award $230,000 (unanimous)
• Approved signing of 30‑day timeline waiver for public hearing on Tax Increment Financing District No. 1‑11: Creative Rentals (unanimous)

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

The committee will meet to receive updates on solid waste, the landfill, and Perham. The meeting is scheduled for 8:00 a.m. at the Clay County Resource Recovery Center.

• Solid Waste/Landfill Update from Corey Bang
• Perham Update from Kevin Campbell

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee approved the amended meeting agenda on a unanimous motion. It also approved the minutes from the April 24, 2025 meeting, again unanimously. No other formal actions were recorded.

• Approved amended meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from April 24, 2025 (unanimous)

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

The Clay Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved a one‑year extension for the Snakey Creek project, authorizing the remaining $65,000 of the original $400,000 grant. The board also approved several cost‑share contract payments, a pressure‑washer purchase, and a scholarship for a conservation camp. All motions were carried without recorded vote counts.

• Approved payment of vouchers Elect #2612‑2623 and Quick Book checks #22443‑22475
• Approved cost‑share payments for streambank projects ($10,629.00 and $13,303.80)
• Approved assistance for waste facility closure contract ($25,158.94)
• Approved assistance for Sabin conservation cover contract ($600.00)
• Approved payment for replacement trees contract ($136.73)
• Approved purchase of a gas‑powered pressure washer up to $600.00
• Approved scholarship for Laken Mongeau to attend Forkhorn 1 camp
• Approved one‑year extension request for Snakey Creek project ($65,000 remaining of $400,000 grant)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider resolutions to request funding from the Office of Minnesota Management and Budget for two projects. The board will also review a liquor license application and receive a presentation on the Heartland Trail.

• Liquor license approval for Venue 31
• Resolution 2025-15: Funding request for Non-Secure Juvenile Facility
• Resolution 2025-16: Funding request for Fargo-Moorhead Area Diversion Project flood mitigation
• Letter of support for Maui Counseling
• Metro COG Heartland Trail presentation

The Board unanimously approved the agenda, a liquor license for Venue 31, and $1,635,256 in bills and vouchers. They also unanimously approved a letter of support for Maui Counseling’s outpatient substance‑use disorder services. The Board unanimously adopted Resolutions 2025‑15 and 2025‑16 to request state funding for a new non‑secure juvenile facility and for flood‑mitigation components of the Fargo‑Moorhead Area Diversion Project. By a 4‑0 vote with one abstention, the Board ranked the flood‑mitigation project as its first priority and the juvenile‑facility project as second for the MMB application.

• Approved agenda (unanimously)
• Approved liquor license for Venue 31 (by consent)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $1,635,256 (unanimously)
• Approved letter of support for Maui Counseling (unanimously)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑15 to request funding for a Non‑Secure Juvenile Facility (unanimously)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑16 to request funding for Flood Mitigation for Fargo‑Moorhead Area Diversion Project (unanimously)
• Ranked Flood Mitigation Project first and Non‑Secure Juvenile Facility second (4‑0, 1 abstention)
• Approved minutes from May 27 2025 (unanimously)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding zoning and subdivision regulations for the Clay County Land Development Ordinance. The board is also seeking direction on 2025 capital bonding funds and reviewing liquor license approvals.

• Public hearing on Clay County Land Development Ordinance: Zoning and Subdivision Regulations
• Request for direction on submitting for 2025 Capital Bonding Funds
• Liquor license approvals for Buffalo River Speedway, Barnesville Restaurant, Willow Creek Golf Course, Mainline Bar and Grill, Rustic Oaks, and J&M Bar Services
• Tax abatements for A.Hedekin and Fitzgerald Construction due to clerical errors
• Bid opening for SAP 014-599-106

The Board unanimously adopted Ordinance 2025-05, amending the Clay County Land Development Ordinance with four additions and a hazardous‑materials definition. It also approved the Flood Mitigation and Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility/Non‑Secure Juvenile Facility projects as bonding priorities. The low bid of $127,722 from Dennis Drewes Inc. was approved for the Elmwood Township Bridge Removal Project. Additional routine items approved included liquor licenses, two small tax abatements, and payment of $6,874,123 in vendor bills.

• Adopted Ordinance 2025-05 amending zoning and subdivision regulations (unanimous)
• Approved inclusion of Flood Mitigation and PRTF/NSJ projects as bonding priorities (unanimous)
• Approved low bid $127,722 to Dennis Drewes Inc. for bridge removal project (unanimous)
• Approved liquor licenses for six establishments (by consent)
• Approved tax abatement for A.Hedekin $42 due to clerical error (by consent)
• Approved tax abatement for Fitzgerald Construction $102 due to clerical error (by consent)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $6,874,123 (unanimous)
• Approved agenda for the meeting (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will approve the meeting agenda, minutes, and several requests. Items include hiring two juvenile workers, renewing a JAG grant, reviewing a lease with the Department of Corrections, and advertising bids for a roof replacement project. The board will also discuss a LUCAS device presentation, a county code update, and hold a closed‑session on pending litigation.

• Approve hiring of two open Juvenile Worker positions in the Non‑Secure Unit
• Approve acceptance and signing of the JAG Grant Renewal
• Approve the lease agreement between Clay County and the Department of Corrections
• Advertise bids for the Roof Replacement Project at the Joint Highway Facility
• Advertise for SAP 014-602-031 and CP 014-300-002 procurement opportunities

The Clay County Board unanimously approved $8,769,347 in vendor payments, filled two juvenile detention worker positions, accepted a $125,000 JAG grant, and approved a grant for a LUCAS CPR device. It also approved a lease with the Department of Corrections, authorized advertising for bids on the Joint Highway Facility roof replacement, repealed three obsolete County Code sections, and assigned the Board Chair to the County Code Committee.

• Approved $8,769,347 in bills and vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of two Juvenile Detention Worker positions (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of $125,000 JAG grant renewal (unanimous)
• Approved grant for purchase of LUCAS CPR device (unanimous)
• Approved lease agreement with Department of Corrections (unanimous)
• Approved advertising for bids on Joint Highway Facility roof replacement (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 2025-02 to repeal section 2-2-23 (restricted dancing) (unanimous)
• Approved assignment of Board Chair to County Code Committee (unanimous)

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority is meeting to review property acquisitions and management. The board will consider a settlement agreement for Ness and a RIMP application for 7102 Ihland. An executive session is scheduled to discuss property interests for OIN 5177 and OIN 1324.

• Ness Updated Settlement Agreement
• OIN 7102 Ihland RIMP Application
• UMA Appraisal Review
• OIN 1252 Kragerud Lease Termination Letter
• OIN 1879Y Rental Agreement

The board approved a settlement for multiple OIN properties, setting escrow at $200,000 plus an additional $10,000. It also approved a Rural Impact Mitigation Program (RIMP) loan for OIN 7102. The just‑compensation appraisal for OIN 1307 was accepted at $87,259, and lease termination and new lease agreements for OIN 1252 and OIN 1879Y were authorized.

• Approved settlement for OINs 1238‑1309 with $200,000 escrow and $10,000 additional escrow (motion carried)
• Approved RIMP loan application for OIN 7102 (motion carried)
• Approved appraisal value for OIN 1307 at $87,259 (motion carried)
• Approved sending lease termination letter for OIN 1252 (motion carried)
• Approved lease agreement for OIN 1879Y at $500/month (motion carried)

Planning Commission

The Clay County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a home occupation permit for a tree service business. The commission will also decide on the need for an Environmental Impact Statement for the Asplin Ekre Pit Expansion.

• Public hearing for Jacob Edwards: interim use home occupation permit for tree service at 8309 230th St S, Hawley
• Decision on Environmental Impact Statement for Asplin Ekre Pit Expansion

The Planning Commission first approved the meeting agenda and the April 15 minutes with a correction about the HOLCIM IUP request. It then unanimously granted an interim use (home‑occupation) permit to Jacob Edwards for his tree‑service business, adding four conditions. The commission also unanimously adopted a resolution declaring that an Environmental Impact Statement is not needed for the Asplin‑Ekre pit expansion project.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April 15 minutes with amendment (unanimous)
• Granted Interim Use Permit to Jacob Edwards with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved negative declaration of need for an EIS for Asplin‑Ekre pit expansion (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss staffing for the Motor Vehicle department and review an annual report on adult mental health. The board will also consider a letter to legislators regarding the Minnesota African American Family Preservation Act.

• Request to hire two full-time Deputy Auditor - Motor Vehicle positions
• Tax abatements for the City of Moorhead, Lashr Properties LLC, and S/C.Ystebo
• Approval of a letter to legislators regarding the Minnesota African American Family Preservation Act (MAAFPA)
• Adult Mental Health Local Advisory Council (LAC) Annual Report
• Update on measles outbreak

The Clay County Board unanimously approved tax abatements totaling $832 for the City of Moorhead, Lashr Properties LLC, and S/C Ystebo. It also approved payment of $846,945 in bills and vouchers from 104 vendors. The board hired two full‑time Deputy Auditors for the DMV and approved the Adult Mental Health Local Advisory Council membership and a letter to legislators about the Minnesota African American Family Preservation Act.

• Approved tax abatements for City of Moorhead $602 (unanimous)
• Approved tax abatement for Lashr Properties LLC $162 (unanimous)
• Approved tax abatement for S/C Ystebo $70 (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers $846,945 from 104 vendors (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of two full‑time Deputy Auditors for the DMV (unanimous)
• Approved Adult Mental Health Local Advisory Council membership (unanimous)
• Approved letter to legislators on MAAFPA concerns (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from May 6, 2025 (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider approvals for vehicle leases and purchases, supply and gravel bids, and a law enforcement agreement. The meeting includes discussions on the 2026 budget timeline and a county budget update.

• Addendum 2 to the Metro Street Crimes Unit Agreement of Joint Exercise of Peace Officer Duties
• Order of 10 vehicles from Enterprise Leasing for 2026
• Purchase of four pickups for the Highway Department
• Approval of yearly supply and gravel bids
• Approval to fill part-time Victim/Witness Coordinator position

The Board unanimously approved the meeting agenda, paid $882,465 in bills and vouchers, and adopted Addendum 2 to the Metro Street Crimes Unit agreement. It also approved the purchase of 10 sheriff vehicles for 2026, yearly supply bids, a gravel contract, four highway department pickups, and a part‑time Victim/Witness Coordinator position, and set the 2026 budget timeline.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $882,465 (unanimous)
• Approved Addendum 2 to Metro Street Crimes Unit Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 10 sheriff vehicles from Enterprise Leasing for 2026 and sale of 5 vehicles (unanimous)
• Approved yearly supply bids for metal culverts, asphalt, and equipment (unanimous)
• Approved gravel bid from Turner Sand and Gravel for Townships 1‑30 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of four pickups for Highway Department from Nelson Auto Center (unanimous)
• Approved filling part‑time Victim/Witness Coordinator position (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review a retail cannabis fee schedule and hold a public hearing regarding a rezoning petition from Derek Syverson. The meeting also includes decisions on several facility projects and staffing requests for public health and residential units.

• Public hearing for Derek Syverson rezoning petition
• Approval of Retail Cannabis Fee Schedule
• Notice of intent to sell Fargo-Moorhead Area Flood Diversion Project land
• Approval of MNDOT Grant Agreement and Resolution 2025-14 for SAP 014-598-079
• Approval of Justice Center Plan with Department of Corrections

The Clay County Board approved a $70 donation to the Sheriff’s K9 program, $1.77 M in vendor payments, and hired a full‑time public‑health RN and a case‑manager for the juvenile secure unit. It also rezoned a 6.6‑acre Barnesville parcel to Highway Commercial and selected the low bid for a Dilworth road project. The board accepted a $309,032 state grant for a county bridge replacement, with all motions passing unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved $70 donation from Johnson's Auto Repair to Sheriff's K9 program (by consent)
• Approved vendor payments totaling $1,774,585 (unanimous)
• Approved hiring and advertising a full‑time RN for Public Health (unanimous)
• Approved hiring a Case Manager for the Secure Residential Unit (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 14566 130th St S parcel from Agricultural General to Highway Commercial (unanimous)
• Approved low bid of $237,707.25 to Northern Improvement Co. for SAP 014‑645‑002 road project (unanimous)
• Approved MNDOT grant agreement and Resolution 2025‑14 for $309,032 bridge replacement (unanimous)

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

The council approved the April meeting minutes. A motion to allocate $750 for LMHC summer CTSS programming was passed. Members agreed to pause meetings in June and July and resume in August. The council also confirmed that gift cards will be distributed to survey winners.

• Approved April meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved $750 LMHC summer CTSS programming request (motion passed)
• Agreed to suspend meetings in June and July, resume in August (planned)
• Committed to distribute gift cards to survey winners (planned)

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee will approve the meeting agenda and the minutes from the March 6, 2025 meeting. It will hear a presentation on a grant to upgrade the garage for Freon recycling. The committee will receive updates on solid‑waste and landfill operations and on the Perham project. The meeting is scheduled to adjourn at 9:00 a.m.

• Approval of meeting agenda
• Approval of minutes from March 6, 2025 meeting
• Grant to update garage for Freon recycling
• Solid waste/landfill operational update
• Perham project update

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee unanimously approved the amended meeting agenda and the March 6 minutes. It also unanimously approved submitting a 50/50 grant application to fund roughly $30,000 of heating and insulation upgrades for the garage used for year‑round freon removal. The committee unanimously voted to send a letter of support to Senator Robert Kupec on recent solid waste legislation. No other formal actions were recorded.

• Approved amended meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved submission of grant for garage heating/insulation upgrade (~$30,000) (unanimous)
• Approved sending letter of support to Senator Kupec (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider hiring staff for juvenile and detox facilities, approve public health contracts, and discuss the impact of the 2025 Governor's budget on social services.

• Hire a nurse for the West Central Regional Juvenile Center
• Hire a registered nurse for the Withdrawal Management/Detox Facility
• Approve Public Health Annual Contracts and Grants
• Reapply for Community Living Infrastructure Grant (CLIG)
• Bid opening for SAP 014-594-002

The Clay County Board unanimously approved the low bid from Hough Inc. for the Hawley Local Road Improvement Project. It also approved a dust‑control quote, a letter of support for the Health and Human Services omnibus bill, and the replacement of a Collections Officer position. In addition, the Board authorized the county to submit a regional Community Living Infrastructure grant application, hired a nurse for the West Central Regional Juvenile Center, and approved payment of $941,906 in bills and public‑health contracts.

• Approved low bid from Hough Inc. ($876,081.38) for SAP 014-594-002 road project (unanimous)
• Approved Dust Control quote from Glacier Dust ($1.78 per gallon) (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for SF2669 Health and Human Services Omnibus (unanimous)
• Approved replacement of Collections Officer position in Child Support, Fraud & Collections Division (unanimous)
• Approved submission of Community Living Infrastructure grant application with Clay County as fiscal host (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of a nurse for West Central Regional Juvenile Center, Grade 19 Step 7 (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $941,906 to 130 vendors (unanimous)
• Approved annual contracts and grants for Public Health (by consent)

General

The Clay County Board of Commissioners held a work‑group session to discuss how the HRA tax levy is being used. Updates included more than $5 million in recent grant awards for Barnesville rehabilitation, High Rise window and generator replacement, and the Bring It Home rental‑assistance program. The board also reviewed resources for ending homelessness, including a DHS community‑infrastructure grant renewal and a $170,000 SAHA investment. No formal actions were taken.

• $1.2 million DEED Small Cities grant for Barnesville homeowner and commercial rehabilitation (with $66,500 SAHA funds as leverage)
• $1.6 million window and generator replacement at the High Rise (funded by $1.45 million from Minnesota and $150,00 from the City of Moorhead)
• $2.5 million Bring It Home Rental Assistance program for extremely low‑income families
• Application to renew the DHS Community Infrastructure Grant for homelessness services
• $170,000 HRA tax levy and SAHA investment supporting homelessness programs

The Work Group session provided updates on the HRA levy, grant applications, rental assistance, and housing support programs. No motions were adopted, no votes were recorded, and no actions were approved, denied, or tabled during the meeting.

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board will consider several consent agenda items, including donations, tax abatements, an auditor engagement letter, and a feedlot program report. Commissioners will discuss the county tobacco ordinance, approve two public‑health grant applications, and review the Riparian Aid Fund distribution plan. The board will also vote to sign a letter of support for the Red River Communication Federal Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) grant and allocate $5,000 of ARPA funds for that effort. Committee reports and a county administrator update will follow before adjournment.

• Tax abatement for Abbott/Bosek due to change in status for 2025 (consent agenda)
• Discussion of the Clay County Tobacco Ordinance
• Request approval of two public‑health grant applications
• Request approval of the Riparian Aid Fund Distribution Plan
• Approval to sign a letter of support for the Red River BEAD grant and provide $5,000 of ARPA funds

The Board approved an amendment to the 2024 Tobacco Ordinance, replacing section 7C to prohibit the sale of electronic delivery devices starting June 1, 2025, with a 4‑1 vote. It also approved payment of $982,472 in bills and vouchers, a $1,000 donation to the sheriff’s work crew, several tax abatements, and the request to submit two public‑health grant applications. Additional items approved by consent included the State Auditor Engagement Letter and the 2024 County Feedlot Program Annual Report.

• Approved $1,000 donation from Sabin Fire Fighters Association to Sheriff's Office work crew (by consent)
• Approved tax abatements: Abbott/Bosek $460; Paulson/Bosek $292 (2024) and $422 (2025); Lamb/Bosek $428 (by consent)
• Approved State Auditor Engagement Letter (by consent)
• Approved 2024 County Feedlot Program Annual Report (by consent)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $982,472 to 142 vendors (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Tobacco Ordinance 2024-04 replacing section 7C to ban electronic delivery devices, effective June 1, 2025 (4‑1 vote)
• Approved request to submit two public‑health grant applications (motion carried with one descending vote)
• Approved agenda for the meeting (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Clay County Board of Adjustment will meet on April 15, 2025. The agenda includes a public hearing on a variance request by HOLCIM – MWR, INC. to operate a gravel mine within the north property line setback of parcels 11.007.3700 and 11.018.0260 in Goose Prairie Township. The board will also consider routine items such as approving the agenda and minutes from the March 18 meeting.

• Public Hearing – HOLCIM – MWR, INC. variance request for gravel mine on Parcel ID 11.007.3700 and 11.018.0260, Goose Prairie Township
• Approval of Agenda
• Approval of Minutes of March 18, 2025
• Call Meeting to Order
• Roll Call

The Board approved the meeting agenda and the March 18, 2025 minutes, each unanimously. A public hearing on HOLCIM's variance request was opened and later closed, both unanimously. The Board then unanimously granted the variance allowing mining within the 100-foot setback of Parcel ID 11.007.3700. The meeting was adjourned at 5:47 PM.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing on HOLCIM variance (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on HOLCIM variance (unanimous)
• Granted variance to mine within 100-foot setback of Parcel ID 11.007.3700 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Clay County Planning Commission will hear public hearings on an interim use permit for a gravel mine, a conditional use permit for an equestrian center, and a rezoning petition for a property on 130th St. S. The commission will also discuss recommending the adoption of an updated Land Development and Subdivision Ordinance to the Board of Commissioners. The meeting includes routine agenda items such as approval of minutes and updates on violations.

• Holcim – MWR, Inc. request for interim use permit for gravel mine on Parcel ID 11.018.0260
• Sarah and Robert Edwards request for conditional use permit for equestrian center at 5062 120th Ave, Felton, MN
• Derek Syverson petition to rezone 14566 130th St. S, Barnesville, MN from Agricultural General to Highway Commercial
• Consideration of recommending adoption of the updated Clay County Land Development and Subdivision Ordinance

The commission opened and closed a public hearing on HOLCIM's request to expand a gravel mine to 39 acres. It then unanimously granted an Interim Use Permit that expires on Dec 31 2035, requires a reclamation bond of $2,500 per acre, and imposes 13 specific conditions including dust control, wetland evaluation, and limited noise hours. Separate hearings were opened and closed for a conditional use request for an equestrian center, but no final permit decision was recorded.

• Opened public hearing for HOLCIM mining request (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for HOLCIM mining request (unanimous)
• Granted Interim Use Permit for HOLCIM mining expansion to 39 acres (unanimous)
• Permit set to expire Dec 31 2035 (unanimous)
• Reclamation bond required at $2,500 per acre for 39 acres (unanimous)
• Opened public hearing for Edwards equestrian center conditional use request (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for Edwards equestrian center request (unanimous)
• No final decision recorded for Edwards equestrian center conditional use request

Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) Board

The Clay Soil & Water Conservation District Board approved the agenda, minutes, treasurer’s report, and several financial items. It authorized assistance contracts for farmstead windbreaks, water‑and‑sediment control basins, and extra cost‑share contracts, and approved the Kennelly Pit 177 wetland replacement plan. The board also approved signing the University of Minnesota 2025 residue data collection request.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved March meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved Treasurer’s report (motion carried)
• Approved vouchers #2585‑2600 and checks #22388‑22417 as paid (motion carried)
• Approved $712.50 farmstead windbreak contract for W. Offerdahl (motion carried)
• Cancelled $1,310.97 farmstead windbreak contract for C. Bailey (motion carried)
• Approved multiple extra cost‑share contracts totaling $3,102.74 for windbreaks (motion carried)
• Approved three BRR1W1P water & sediment control basin projects totaling $54,580.99 (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider several consent agenda items, including amending the letting date for yearly supply bids and granting a tax abatement to T. Nelson because of a clerical error. They will also review a request to fill an open RN position and a proposal for pavement testing. An annual update from the Social Services department will be presented, followed by committee reports and other discussions.

• Approval to amend letting date for yearly supply bids (consent agenda)
• Tax abatement for T. Nelson due to a clerical error (consent agenda)
• Request approval to fill open RN position
• Request approval of proposal for pavement testing
• Annual department update – Social Services

The Clay County Board approved $925,507 in bills and vouchers from 121 vendors. It also approved three pavement‑testing contracts totaling $65,030, hired two full‑time Registered Nurses, and adopted a proclamation for the Cass‑Clay Interagency Council on Homelessness. Additional actions included amending the supply‑bid letting date, granting a $225.18 tax abatement, and approving the March 25 minutes.

• Approved bills and vouchers totaling $925,507 from 121 vendors (unanimously)
• Approved three pavement‑testing contracts with Braun Intertec totaling $65,030 (unanimously)
• Approved hiring and advertising for two full‑time Registered Nurses in Adult Health (unanimously)
• Adopted proclamation for Cass‑Clay Interagency Council on Homelessness (unanimously)
• Amended letting date for yearly supply bids to May 13, 2025 (by consent)
• Approved tax abatement for T. Nelson for clerical error of $225.18 (by consent)
• Approved agenda additions for homelessness proclamation and RN positions (motion carried)
• Approved minutes from March 25, 2025 (unanimously)

Children's Mental Health Local Advisory Council

The council approved the March meeting minutes after a motion by Kara and a second by Joni. They corrected an error in those minutes, changing the billboard vendor to Kelner Communications. Lacey will create and distribute a poster with a QR code for the caregiver/parent survey. Members were reminded they can request funding for special projects by emailing Michelle.

• Approved March meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Corrected billboard vendor to Kelner Communications (recorded)
• Reviewed 2024 Report to Board – no changes suggested (completed)
• Lacey will create and send QR‑code poster for caregiver/parent survey (planned)
• Members may request special project funding by emailing Michelle (policy)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider a rezoning petition and a funding application for the West Central Regional Water District Project. The board is also reviewing software contract renewals and a resolution for snowmobile trail funding.

• Public hearing regarding Red River Valley Co-op Power petition for rezoning
• Request to submit Congressional Directed Funding application for West Central Regional Water District Project
• Resolution 2025-13 for DNR funding for snowmobile trails managed by Clay Trail Alliance
• Service contract renewals with Vanguard Computer Systems for Assessor Web Site and Cama Software
• Request to overfill a Deputy position due to military leave

The Clay County Board unanimously approved the submission of a $5,566,888 Congressional Directed Funding application for the West Central Regional Water Supply Project. It also approved rezoning a parcel from Agricultural General to Highway Commercial, renewed several contracts, and authorized payment of $1,479,236 in bills. Additional actions included hiring an overfilled deputy, advertising yearly supply bids and a highway project, and proclaiming April as Child Abuse Prevention Month.

• Approved submission of $5,566,888 grant application for West Central Regional Water Supply Project (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of parcel at CSAH 18 & 34th St. to Highway Commercial (unanimous)
• Approved Vegetation Management Lease Renewal with Jennifer Rickford (by consent)
• Approved renewal of Service Contract with Vanguard Computer Systems for Assessor website (by consent)
• Approved renewal of Consolidated Extended Service Contract with Vanguard for Cama Software (by consent)
• Approved payment of bills and vouchers totaling $1,479,236 to 134 vendors (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of a Deputy to overfill a position in Investigations due to military leave (unanimous)
• Approved advertising yearly supply bids with letting date April 30, 2025 (unanimous)

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority will review project updates and property acquisition status. The body will also hold a closed executive session to discuss attorney consultation regarding property interests.

• Property Acquisition Status Report
• MN Litigation Action Update
• Executive Session for property interests OINs 1267 and 1268
• Approval of Minutes
• Action on Negation Summary

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review tax abatements for three parties due to errors and misclassifications. The meeting includes requests to appoint a member to the Planning Commission and replace a Case Aide position in the Child Protection Division. The board will also receive annual updates from the Department of Corrections/Probation and the Extension department.

• Tax abatements for Carlson/Nelson, Bolgrean/Kinter, and Haug
• Appointment of Josh Schroeder to the Planning Commission
• Replacement of a Case Aide position in the Child Protection Division
• Bid opening for SAP 014-598-079, SAP 014-599-105, and SAP 014-599-114
• Payment submission to Innovate 28

The Board approved three small tax abatements totaling $2,196. It authorized payment of $601,126 in vendor bills and vouchers. Commissioners appointed Josh Schroeder to the Planning Commission, hired a Case Aide for the Child Protection Division, and approved the second $185,000 payment for the Innovate 28 program. The low bid of $644,745.50 from Houle Excavating LLC was accepted for three bridge replacement projects.

• Approved tax abatements for Carlson/Nelson ($1,654), Bolgrean/Kinter ($142), and Haug ($400) (by consent)
• Approved payment of vendor bills and vouchers totaling $601,126 (unanimous)
• Appointed Josh Schroeder to a three‑year term on the Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Approved low bid of $644,745.50 to Houle Excavating LLC for bridge replacements (unanimous)
• Approved hiring for a Case Aide position in the Child Protection Division (unanimous)
• Approved second half of $185,000 payment to the Chamber and Greater Fargo‑Moorhead EDC for Innovate 28 (unanimous)
• Approved the minutes from the March 11, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved the meeting agenda (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board will approve the agenda, amend the purchase price for Unit 142 (John Deere Motor Grader), and approve payment of bills, vouchers, and the March 4 minutes. It will hold public hearings on a rezoning petition for Red River Valley Co‑op Power and on a new county tobacco ordinance. The meeting also includes bid openings, department updates, a request to fill an assistant county attorney vacancy, and a closed‑session discussion of pending litigation.

• Amend purchase price for Unit 142 – John Deere Motor Grader (consent agenda)
• Public hearing: Red River Valley Co‑op Power petition for rezoning
• Bid opening for SAP 014-634-031
• Public hearing: Clay County tobacco ordinance
• Request approval to fill assistant county attorney position vacancy

Board of Adjustment

The Clay County Board of Adjustment will first approve the agenda and the minutes from the January 28, 2025 meeting. It will then hold a public hearing on a variance request from Menholt Farms LLC to modify the ordinary high water level setback for agricultural structures at 10812 Hwy 9 N in Felton. The meeting also includes unfinished and new business items before adjournment.

• Public hearing: Menholt Farms LLC variance request for Ordinary High Water Level setback at 10812 Hwy 9 N, Felton (Parcel ID 08.027.0151)
• Approval of agenda
• Approval of minutes from January 28, 2025

Planning Commission

The Clay County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing for a home occupation permit and discuss the adoption of an updated Land Development and Subdivision Ordinance. The body will also consider appointing a new member to the commission.

• Public hearing for home occupation permit at 3563 70th St N
• Recommendation for adoption of updated Land Development and Subdivision Ordinance
• Recommendation to appoint Joshua Schroeder to Planning Commission

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider several approval requests, including a contract for township maintenance services for 2025‑2026 and the purchase of three John Deere motor graders. They will also vote on appointing Brad Eldred to a second three‑year term on the Planning Commission and on acquiring a QED GEM 5000 gas monitor and an electronic storage appliance. A closed‑session discussion of pending litigation will also be held.

• Approval of the 2025‑2026 Township Maintenance Contract
• Purchase of three (3) John Deere motor graders
• Appointment of Brad Eldred to a second three‑year term on the Planning Commission
• Purchase of a QED GEM 5000 gas monitor
• Purchase of an electronic storage appliance

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee will approve the meeting agenda and minutes from the December 19, 2024 meeting. They will introduce Mara DeRung and discuss buying a replacement LandGem gas detector. Updates on solid waste/landfill operations and the Perham project will also be presented before adjournment.

• Approval of meeting agenda
• Approval of minutes from December 19, 2024
• Purchase of replacement LandGem gas detector
• Solid waste/landfill operational update
• Perham project update

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority will review property acquisition and litigation updates. The body will hold an executive session regarding the purchase of property interests for 11 specific parcels and consider a 2025 farmland lease.

• Property acquisition status report
• MN litigation action update
• Executive session for property interests/settlement negotiations for OINs 1271, 1298, 1299, 1308, 1309, 1238, 1239, 1249, 1258, 1259, and 1260
• 2025 Farmland Lease

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will consider a resolution for the City of Hawley to purchase Parcel 56.685.0990. They will also review requests to hire a Program Coordinator for Public Health and a Social Worker for the Adult & Behavioral Health Division, and approve a 179D tax‑credit allocation for Klein McCarthy Architects and Gehrtz Construction Services. A proposal to provide a facility dog for the County Attorney's Office will be discussed as well.

• Resolution 2025-12 for the City of Hawley to purchase Parcel 56.685.0990
• 179D Tax Credit Allocation Letter for Klein McCarthy Architects and Gehrtz Construction Services
• Request approval to hire a Program Coordinator for Public Health
• Request approval to hire a Social Worker for the Adult & Behavioral Health Division
• Request approval of a Facility Dog for the Clay County Attorney's Office

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will discuss staffing for public health and the Withdrawal Management Detox Facility. The meeting includes updates on the Moorhead Cultural Mall and the Cass-Clay Community Land Trust, as well as a closed session regarding pending litigation.

• Request to hire for open positions in Public Health and Withdrawal Management Detox Facility
• Contract request with Sevita for Semi-Independent Living Skills
• Final contract voucher approval for SAP 014-598-078, SAP 014-610-034, and SAP 014-637-004
• Advertising request for SAP 014-598-079, SAP 014-599-105, and SAP 014-599-114
• Annual department updates from the Veterans Service Office and Attorney's Office

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will review requests for letters of support for construction and cultural projects. The board is also considering additional funding for the judicial formation of the West Central Regional Water District.

• Additional funding for the judicial formation of the West Central Regional Water District
• Letter of support for seven County Construction and Demolition Grant applications
• Letter of support for the Moorhead Cultural Mall Project
• Exempt Permit application for North West Regional Firefighters Association raffle
• Annual department updates from the Recorder's Office and Human Resources

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding a land development ordinance update and several land-use requests. The body will consider a rezoning petition and two interim use permits.

• Public input on the Clay County Land Development and Subdivision Ordinance update
• Rezoning petition by Red River Valley Co-op Power for Parcel ID: 23.034.0400 from Agricultural General; Urban Expansion District Tier 2 to Highway Commercial
• Home occupation permit request for a bed and breakfast at 17614 60th St N, Georgetown
• Interim use renewal request by RJ Zavoral & Sons for a temporary asphalt hot mix plant in Hagen Township
• Election of officers

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will review a resolution supporting a $60.4 million legislative appropriation for the Fargo-Moorhead Diversion Project. The board will also receive annual department updates and discuss a potential amendment to the county tobacco ordinance.

• Resolution 2025-11 supporting $60.4 million for Fargo-Moorhead Diversion Project construction and land acquisition
• Request to set a public hearing for amending the Clay County Tobacco Ordinance
• Request to advertise for SP 014-611-055
• Request to advertise for SAP 014-632-031
• Exempt permit application for Barnesville Lions Club raffle

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider several MNDOT grant agreements and resolutions for road projects. The meeting includes decisions on affordable housing and homeless prevention aid recommendations, as well as a closed session regarding deputy pay negotiations.

• MNDOT Grant Agreements and Resolutions 2025-07, 2025-08, and 2025-09
• Resolution 2025-10 for Small City Street Allotment
• Statewide Affordable Housing Aid and Local Homeless Prevention Aid grantee recommendations
• Approval to fill a Welfare Fraud Investigator position in Social Services
• Closed session for union negotiations regarding SGT and Deputy First Class pay

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will hold a discussion‑only meeting. Commissioners will hear public comments and talk about the Clay County Tobacco Ordinance and the Clay County Land Development Ordinance. No formal actions are scheduled for this meeting.

• Clay County Tobacco Ordinance – discussion
• Clay County Land Development Ordinance – discussion
• Citizens to be Heard – public comment period

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will discuss a request to extend eligible expenses for the Moorhead Center Mall Redevelopment TIF District from 5 to 10 years. The board will also consider hiring a juvenile counselor and receive project updates on a non-secure facility.

• Request to extend Moorhead Center Mall Redevelopment TIF eligible expenses from 5 to 10 years
• Request to hire a Juvenile Counselor position in the Secure Unit
• Bid opening for SAP 014-634-032
• Pre-design update from Klein McCarthy Architects on the Non-Secure Facility Project
• MnDNR update on an emerging deer issue in Minnesota

Board of Adjustment

The Clay County Board of Adjustment will meet on Jan 28, 2025. After routine items, the board will hold a public hearing on a variance request to change the road‑centerline setback for a structure at 12479 100th St S in Sabin. The board will consider granting the after‑the‑fact variance for the specified parcel.

• Public hearing – variance request for road centerline setback at 12479 100th St S, Sabin (Parcel ID 01.003.4001)

Planning Commission

The commission will hold a public hearing to review and discuss draft Chapters 5‑8 of the Clay County Land Development Ordinance Update. Routine items include approval of the agenda and minutes, and the election of officers. The public may comment in person at the hearing or submit comments beforehand. The meeting also notes the end of the first term for Brad Eldred in February 2025.

• Public hearing on draft Chapters 5‑8 of the Clay County Land Development Ordinance Update
• Draft Chapters 1‑4 of the ordinance also available online for review
• Election of officers scheduled for February 18, 2025
• End of first term for Brad Eldred in February 2025

Moorhead-Clay County Joint Powers Authority

The Moorhead‑Clay County Joint Powers Authority board will consider several actions, including depositing appraisal values and approving a negotiation summary for the purchase of property interests identified as OIN 1237 and 1256. An executive session will be held for attorney consultation on the same property negotiations. The board will also review 2025 farmland lease agreements.

• Deposit of appraisal values (Action)
• Closed executive session for attorney consultation on purchase of OIN 1237 and 1256
• Action on negotiation summary for OIN 1237/1256 (if needed)
• 2025 farmland leases (Action)
• Property acquisition status report

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board of Commissioners will vote on a Surface Transportation Block Grant application and several contract vouchers, including two SAP contracts and purchases of technology and aerial imagery. The meeting also includes a resolution for part‑time police officers' retirement benefits and an amendment to the Land Development Ordinance contract. Additional items cover staffing in the Financial Services Division and the acceptance of funding for the Family Resource Center project.

• Request approval of Surface Transportation Block Grant Application (Item 2)
• Final Contract Voucher for SAP 014-626-032 (Item 3)
• Final Contract Voucher for SAP 014-601-008 (Item 4)
• Request approval to purchase Eagleview aerial imagery (Item 7)
• Request approval to purchase replacement laptops (Item 10)

Board of Commissioners

The Clay County Board will vote on a letter of support for the CSAH 36 bridge replacement. Commissioners will also decide whether to purchase replacement laptops for county use. A discussion of the Clay County Tobacco Ordinance is scheduled. The meeting includes routine consent‑agenda approvals and committee reports.

• Request approval of a letter of support for CSAH 36 bridge replacement
• Request approval to purchase replacement laptops
• Discussion on the Clay County Tobacco Ordinance
• Consent agenda: citizen comments, payment of bills and vouchers, approval of December 31, 2024 minutes
• Committee reports and County Administrator update

Board of Commissioners

The Board will elect its 2025 Chair and Vice-Chair and establish the meeting schedule for the year. The body will also consider several equipment purchases and intergovernmental agreements.

• MOU with Cass County ND to board inmates at the Clay County Correctional Center
• Purchase of two John Deere tractors
• Purchase of a pickup for the Highway Department
• Updated contract with Valley Mortuary Transportation Services (VMTS)
• Lease renewal for Lake and Prairie Community Action-Suite #104 Family Service Center