Itasca County, MN

County Board

Regional Railroad Authority

Regional Railroad Authority

County Board

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Regional Railroad Authority

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Regional Railroad Authority

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Regional Railroad Authority

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The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss county planning and service contracts. The agenda includes a presentation on the 2025 exit audit and updates from CEDA and ICTV.

• Approval of Revised Itasca County Outdoor Recreation Plan
• 2027 Contract with Itasca County Agricultural Association
• 2026 Itasca County Agricultural Association Service Contract Amendment
• Resolution to act as sponsor/fiscal agent for Blackberry Township's LRIP funding application
• MnDOT Detour Agreement No 1063939

The Board approved over $500,000 in commissioner warrants and adopted the 2026-2036 Itasca County Recreation Plan. It also approved service contracts and an amendment for the Itasca County Agricultural Association. Additionally, the Board agreed to act as a fiscal agent for a Blackberry Township road funding application.

• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $501,995.28 (5-0)
• Adopted 2026-2036 Itasca County Recreation Plan (5-0)
• Approved 2027 service contract with Itasca County Agricultural Association for fairgrounds property management (5-0)
• Approved 2026 Itasca County Agricultural Association contract amendment for trailhead campground maintenance (3-2)
• Approved resolution to act as sponsor/fiscal agent for Blackberry Township's Local Road Improvement Program application (5-0)
• Approved MnDOT Detour Agreement No. 1063939 (TH 2) (5-0)
• Proclaimed Community Media Day 2026 (5-0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment meet Wednesday, 10/14/2026 at 1:00 P.M. in the Sheriff's Training Room in Grand Rapids. The Planning Commission will consider approving minutes from 9/9/2026 and old business on the Cedar Wild West major subdivision final plat. The Board of Adjustment will then take up two new variance requests, one for a septic system near Shallow Lake and one for a garage near Sand Lake, before a closed session for board education.

• Final plat for Cedar Wild West major subdivision on County Road 238 right-of-way, Section 29, Unorganized Township 57-26 (Stephen & Pauline Kutschat)
• Variance from Section 5.6.7B for a septic system not meeting required setbacks from Shallow Lake's Ordinary High Water Level, Lot 14 and N 10' of Lot 15, Shorecrest, Section 31, Feeley Township 54-23 (Debra Sisson)
• Variance from Sections 4.11 and 3.17.6 for a 30'x30' garage not meeting the side property line setback, Lot 1, Linden Point, Section 4, Unorganized Township 147-26 (Robert & Karen Doll)
• Approval of minutes from the 9/9/2026 regular meeting
• Closed session for board education

County Board

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to review routine consent items and administrative updates. The board is considering several lease agreements and a professional services contract for infrastructure design.

• Professional technical service contract with WSN for bridge replacement on CSAH 69 over the Swan River
• 2026 Storage Lease Agreement with the Itasca County Agricultural Association
• Lease agreement with the Itasca County Agricultural Association for the 2026 Lights in the Pines event
• Resolutions regarding Bowstring Airport (State-9y0-A3115-18-RES and State-9y0-A3115-19-RES)
• Grant Agreement and Resolution GPZ-A3101-108-1064629

The Board approved over $1.2 million in commissioner warrants and authorized a bridge design contract for CSAH 69. Other actions included approving two social worker job postings and designating November 2026 as National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Month.

• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $1,285,901.04 (5-0)
• Authorized bridge design contract with WSN for CSAH 69 over the Swan River (5-0)
• Approved job postings for two Social Workers in Health and Human Services (5-0)
• Designated November 2026 as National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Month (5-0)
• Approved 2026 Storage Lease Agreement with Itasca County Agricultural Association (5-0)
• Approved lease agreement for 2026 Lights in the Pines event (5-0)
• Adopted resolutions regarding Bowstring Airport (5-0)
• Approved Grant Agreement and Resolution GPZ-A3101-108-1064629 (5-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners meets in special session on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the Itasca County Boardroom in Grand Rapids. The only substantive agenda item is Amendment 1 to the Rail Use & Operating Agreement, presented by Karin Grandia. The agenda is marked DRAFT and does not state what the amendment would change or whether a vote is planned.

• Amendment 1 to the Rail Use & Operating Agreement, presented by Karin Grandia
• Special session scheduled for 2:00 PM, with the rail item at about 2:06 PM and adjournment to follow
• Agenda notes portions of the meeting may be closed to the public if private or confidential data is discussed

The Board of Commissioners held a special session to address a single agenda item. The board approved an amendment to the Rail Use and Operating Agreement.

• Approved amendment 1 to the Rail Use and Operating Agreement (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners meets Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 2:30 PM in the Itasca County Boardroom in Grand Rapids. The board will vote on a consent agenda of routine items, including two resolutions, a public health grant application, an electronic recording agreement with Hopdox, LLC, and a revised final payment for Contract 64208 (bituminous overlay on CSAH 42, 43, and 79). The regular agenda covers commissioner warrants, a right of first refusal review, county properties available for potential sale, 2027 IMCare DHS contracts, a demolition contract addendum, tax-forfeited land classification, two watershed management plans, and a Bowstring task order. The agenda also lists citizen input and possible closed sessions; no dollar amounts are stated in the document.

• Consent agenda: two resolutions (GPZ-A3101-106-1064476 and GPZ-A3101-107-1064469)
• Consent agenda: revised final payment for Contract 64208, bituminous overlay on CSAH 42, 43, and 79
• Consent agenda: MOU with Hopdox, LLC for electronic recording services
• Regular agenda: 2027 IMCare DHS Families and Children and Seniors contracts
• Regular agenda: Big Fork River and Little Fork River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plans

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners approved the sale of several county-owned properties, including the Balsam Garage, Northside Building, 40 acres near Grand Village, and the Probation Building, while tabling the Red Pole Building. The board also adopted resolutions to implement the Bigfork River and Little Fork River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plans, approved 2027 IMCare DHS contracts, and authorized commissioner warrants totaling $691,877.62.

• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $691,877.62 with a check date of October 7, 2026 (4-0)
• Took no action on reviewing the First Right of Refusal on noted property (4-0)
• Approved selling the county-owned Balsam Garage with provision for salt on site (4-0)
• Approved selling the county-owned Northside Building with a transition plan (4-0)
• Approved selling 40 county-owned acres near Grand Village as is (4-0)
• Approved selling the county-owned Probation Building as is (4-0)
• Tabled the Red Pole Building by Circle K (4-0)
• Authorized 2027 IMCare contracts between IMCare and DHS for Families, Children and Seniors (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will hold its regular session, covering routine approvals, a proposed 2027 levy, and updates on county services. Key actions include consent agenda items for road maintenance funding and final payments on construction contracts, plus presentations on telecom solutions and ambulance services.

• Transfer $1,500,000 from Unorganized Township road and bridge accounts to County Road and Bridge fund
• Final payment for Contract 65407 culvert and bituminous restoration on CSAH 54 (pending OCR approval)
• Final payment for SAP 031-030-005 2026 Pavement Markings
• Final payment for Contract 64208 bituminous overlay on CSAH 42, 43, & 79
• 2027 Proposed Levy discussion

The Itasca County Board adopted a proposed 2027 tax levy of $49,831,941, an 8.79% increase over 2026, along with proposed unorganized fire and road & bridge levies, and set a public meeting for December 1, 2026. The levy passed 3-1, with Commissioner John Johnson voting no. The board also approved its consent agenda, warrants, a corrections deputy position, and a Paul Bunyan managed voice proposal, all 4-0. Two items — an IMCare division update and the Nashwauk Ambulance second-quarter report — were informational only, with no action taken.

• Adopted proposed 2027 tax levy of $49,831,941, an 8.79% increase over 2026 (3-1, Johnson nay)
• Adopted proposed unorganized fire levy at 4.5% of net tax capacity (3-1)
• Adopted proposed unorganized road & bridge levy at 10% of net capacity (3-1)
• Scheduled public budget/levy meeting for Dec 1, 2026, 6:00 p.m. in the County Boardroom (3-1)
• Approved consent agenda, including AFSCME Local 1626 MOU, FAA snow removal grant requests, and $1,500,000 transfer from Unorganized Township road and bridge accounts (4-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants of $507,791.75 and ICHHS Warrants of $1,038,050.35 (4-0)
• Approved 1 Corrections Deputy in the Sheriff's Department (4-0)
• Approved Paul Bunyan proposal for Managed Voice/NetSapien Solution (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will hold a regular session covering routine approvals and updates. The consent agenda includes appointing additional election judges for the November 2026 general election and approving utility easements with Lake Country Power. The regular agenda includes commissioner warrants, job postings, and an update on Mesabi Metallics.

• Appoint 10 additional election judges to the Mail Ballot and Absentee Ballot Board for the November 3, 2026 election
• Approve utility easements with Lake Country Power on tax-forfeited trust land
• Consider commissioner warrants
• Consider job posting approvals
• Receive Mesabi Metallics update

The Board approved commissioner warrants for $1,360,887.96 and various administrative actions including job postings and election judge appointments. The Board also authorized utility easements and a grant request for the airport taxilane extension.

• Approved September 16, 2026 commissioner warrants for $1,360,887.96 (5-0)
• Appointed additional election judges for the November 3, 2026, General Election (5-0)
• Approved utility easements with Lake Country Power (5-0)
• Approved Airport Taxilane Extension Grant Request (5-0)
• Approved 2026 North Star Timber Expo lease agreement (5-0)
• Approved hiring of one Legal Secretary for the Attorney’s Office (5-0)
• Approved September 8, 2026 meeting minutes (5-0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will consider new business including a commercial dog kennel permit and a major subdivision. The Board of Adjustment will also review two variance requests regarding dwelling setbacks near lakes.

• Conditional Use Permit for a commercial dog kennel in Bigfork Township
• Major Subdivision application for Cedar Wild West in Unorganized Township 57-26
• Variance request for dwelling setbacks from Sand Lake in Feeley Township
• Variance request for dwelling setbacks from Slausen Lake in Unorganized Township 60-25

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved a conditional use permit for Gwen Ritter's commercial kennel in Bigfork Township, with conditions including a 300-foot buffer on all four sides and limits of 25 breeding dogs and 10 adult non-breeding dogs. The board also approved the preliminary plat for the Cedar Wild West major subdivision by Stephen & Paulette Kutschat, contingent on revisions in Guy Carlson's 8/26/2026 letter and a variance for a Type III septic system on Lot 2, Block 2. Two shoreline variances were approved: Russell Christinsen's 24'x40' dwelling and Anthony & Cynthia Hofdahl's 30'x40' dwelling/12'x40' patio, the latter on a 3:1 vote with Butterfield opposed. All other motions carried unanimously.

• Approved Gwen Ritter's conditional use permit for a commercial kennel in Bigfork Township, with conditions: rotate structure to face woods (south), 300' buffer on all four sides, max 25 breeding dogs and 10 adult non-breeding dogs, noise-buffer best practices, state license (unanimous)
• Approved preliminary plat for Cedar Wild West major subdivision by Stephen & Paulette Kutschat, contingent on revisions in Guy Carlson's 8/26/2026 letter and a Type III septic variance for Lot 2, Block 2 (unanimous)
• Approved Russell Christinsen's variance for a 24'x40' dwelling 41' from OHWL and 102' from US Hwy 2 centerline (unanimous)
• Approved Anthony & Cynthia Hofdahl's variance for a 30'x40' dwelling/12'x40' patio 41' from OHWL (3:1; Bellomy, Janssen, Maasch aye; Butterfield nay)
• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the 8/12/2026 hearing as distributed (unanimous)
• Adjourned the Planning Commission and opened the Board of Adjustment meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 12:33 p.m. (unanimous)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will hold a regular session with a consent agenda that includes a $110,450 gravel crushing contract award and a real estate service contract. The regular agenda features an employee recognition, commissioner warrants, the 2025 annual report, and an ARDC presentation. The meeting also includes routine items like minutes approval, administrator update, and citizen input.

• Award Contract 2026-04 Gravel Crushing Pincherry Pit to TNT Construction Group, LLC for $110,450
• Approve service contract with Pemberton Real Estate
• MnDOT Limited Use Permit Resolution for Sara Thompson
• 2025 Annual Report presentation
• ARDC presentation by Betsy Olivanti

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority held a regular session and approved both the agenda additions/corrections and the minutes from the July 14, 2026 meeting, each by a 5-0 vote. The board received an informational update on the Mesabi Trail from Forest Recreation Specialist Sara Thompson, with no action taken. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved agenda additions/corrections (5-0)
• Approved minutes of July 14, 2026 meeting (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority is holding a regular session with a light agenda. The main item is a discussion and informational update on the Mesabi Trail, presented by Sara Thompson and Sarah Ciochetto. The board will also approve minutes from its July 14, 2026 meeting.

• Mesabi Trail updates presented by Sara Thompson and Sarah Ciochetto
• Approval of minutes from July 14, 2026 Regional Rail Authority meeting

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority met on September 8, 2026, and approved additions/corrections to the agenda and the minutes of its July 14, 2026 meeting, both by 5-0 votes. The board received an informational update on the Mesabi Trail from Forest Recreation Specialist Sara Thompson; no action was taken. The meeting adjourned at 2:11 PM. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved additions/corrections to the agenda (5-0)
• Approved minutes of the July 14, 2026 Regional Rail Authority meeting (5-0)
• Received Mesabi Trail update; no action taken

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will meet to approve several routine items via the consent agenda. These items include grant requests and the donation of computers to local fire departments.

• MN Safe and Secure Grant approval
• Airport Improvement Grant Request letter authorization
• Great American contract approval
• Donation of three computers to Trout Lake, Taconite, and Greenway Fire Departments

The Itasca County Board approved the agenda as amended, adding a temporary liquor license for Keewatin American Legion Post 452 and additional info on a grant. They approved the consent agenda including the MN Safe and Secure Grant, an airport grant request letter, a contract with Great American, computer donations to three fire departments, and the temporary liquor license. Commissioner warrants totaling $1,570,328.96 were approved. All votes were 4-0, with Commissioner Cory Smith absent.

• Approved agenda as amended (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including MN Safe and Secure Grant, airport grant letter, Great American contract, computer donations, and temporary liquor license (4-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants of $1,570,328.96 (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will hold its regular session, addressing routine consent agenda items including appointments, contracts, and grant applications, as well as a closed session on courthouse security. Key actions include awarding a road construction contract and approving a student support services contract.

• Award Contract 59301 for County Road 540 Grading and Aggregate Surfacing to Ryan Sutherland
• Approve contract between IMCare and Full Circle Counseling and Wellness, PC
• Approve application for Medica Foundation grant
• Approve Student Engagement & Attendance Support Program Services contract with Ross Resources Ltd. (Sept 1, 2026 – Aug 31, 2027)
• Closed session on courthouse security

The Itasca County Board approved its consent agenda 5-0, including a $689,705.95 contract to Hoover Construction Company for County Road 540 grading and aggregate surfacing, and authorized related grant signatures. In regular session the board approved Commissioner Warrants of $194,810.03 and Itasca County Health & Human Services warrants of $2,042,475.86, both 5-0, plus one Social Worker position and a low bid from Valley Petroleum Equipment for an above ground fuel tank. The board also held a closed session on courthouse security under MN Statutes 13D.05, Subd. 3(d) and took no action afterward. These are draft minutes; the closed session's substance was not recorded.

• Approved agenda as amended, adding information to Item 6.5 Above Ground Fuel Tank (5-0)
• Approved August 18, 2026 regular session minutes (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda as presented (5-0)
• Awarded Contract 59301 SAP 031-593-001 County Road 540 Grading and Aggregate Surfacing to Hoover Construction Company, $689,705.95
• Approved Commissioner Warrants dated July 22, 2026, $194,810.03 (5-0)
• Approved Itasca County Health & Human Services warrants for August 2026, $2,042,475.86 (5-0)
• Approved 1 Social Worker position in the Family Services Division of Health and Human Services (5-0)
• Approved low bid from Valley Petroleum Equipment for a new above ground fuel tank and authorized signatures (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will hold a public hearing on a rezone application from Mini-Sota Storage Solutions, and will also consider several routine items including travel approval, minutes corrections, job postings, and a letter of support for a grant. The agenda includes presentations on traffic safety and emergency management awareness, as well as a policy update for the law library.

• Public hearing on rezone application by Mini-Sota Storage Solutions
• Approve out-of-state travel for SHI Summit in New Jersey
• Letter of support for Depot Commons re: Culture & Tourism Grant
• Job posting approvals
• Itasca County Law Library Policy update

The Itasca County Board approved a rezone application submitted by Mini-Sota Storage Solutions, including findings of fact and adopting the resolution. The board also approved commissioner warrants totaling $2,974,001.13, an interim law library policy, and a letter of support for a Depot Commons culture and tourism grant. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved rezone application by Mini-Sota Storage Solutions (5-0)
• Approved commissioner warrants of $2,974,001.13 (5-0)
• Approved interim Itasca County Law Library Policy (5-0)
• Approved letter of support for Depot Commons Culture & Tourism Grant (5-0)
• Approved 1 Social Worker and 1 Case Aide job postings in Health and Human Services (5-0)
• Adopted resolution for National Emergency Management Awareness Month (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda, including out-of-state travel for SHI Summit and road revocation to Lake Jessie Township (5-0)
• Approved agenda and prior meeting minutes (5-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will hold a regular session with a public hearing on a rezone application from Mini-Sota Storage Solutions, along with several routine items including travel approvals, job postings, and a letter of support for a grant. The board will also receive presentations on traffic safety and emergency management awareness.

• Public hearing on rezone application by Mini-Sota Storage Solutions
• Approve out-of-state travel and vendor-paid airfare for SHI Summit in New Jersey
• Letter of support for Depot Commons re: Culture & Tourism Grant
• Itasca County Law Library Policy discussion
• Job posting approvals

Regional Railroad Authority

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Planning Commission will review and likely vote on a conditional use permit for an extractive pit near South Ackerman Lake, and two rezoning requests. After adjourning, the Board of Adjustment will hear four variance requests for lakefront and road setback rules.

• Conditional Use Permit for extractive pit and storage within 1000’ of South Ackerman Lake (RK Construction Services, Inc.)
• Rezone 1.4 acres from Farm Residential to Recreational Commercial in Arbo Township (Minnesota Storage Solutions)
• Variance for dwelling closer to Pokegema Lake setback (Gina & David Bemrose)
• Variance for Turtle Lake dwelling setback and bluff rule (Vasili Ceausceac)
• Variance for garage setback from County Road 195 and Jackson Road (Joshual Heibel)

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved a conditional use permit for RK Construction Services for extractive use and material storage near South Ackerman Lake, and recommended approval of a rezone for Mini-Sota Storage Solutions. The Board of Adjustment approved three variances for dwellings and a garage. All decisions were unanimous.

• Approved RK Construction Services CUP for extractive use and material storage (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Mini-Sota Storage Solutions rezone from Farm Residential to Recreational Commercial (unanimous)
• Approved Gina & David Bemrose variance for dwelling and garage near OHWL (unanimous)
• Approved Vasili Ceausceac variance for cabin and garage near OHWL and bluff (unanimous)
• Approved Joshua Heibel variance for garage setback from roads (unanimous)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve routine items including final payment for a road project on CSAH 7, service contracts with dollar amounts, and policy exceptions. The meeting follows a standard agenda with a consent portion for non-controversial actions and a regular agenda for specific reports.

• Approve final payment for Contract 60730, grading project on CSAH 7
• Approve $250/session clinical supervision contract with Dr. Justin Gambill
• Approve $55/hour guardianship services contract with Ethical Solutions LLC
• Approve donation of three computers to First Call for Help
• Approve nepotism policy exception for vacant Health and Human Services position

The Itasca County Board approved the agenda as amended, moving a potential perceived nepotism issue from the consent agenda to the regular agenda. The board also approved commissioner warrants totaling $1,574,909.34, IMCare compliance documents, and several consent agenda items including a final payment for a road project and service agreements. The Law Library Policy was tabled until the next meeting on August 18, 2026.

• Approved agenda as amended, moving nepotism item to regular agenda (3-0)
• Approved July 28, 2026, regular session minutes (3-0)
• Approved final payment for Contract 60730 on CSAH 7 (consent)
• Approved Purchase of Service Agreement with Dr. Justin Gambill for clinical supervision (consent)
• Approved donation of three computers to First Call for Help (consent)
• Approved Purchase of Service Agreement with Ethical Solutions LLC for guardianship (consent)
• Approved commissioner warrants for $1,574,909.34 (3-0)
• Tabled Itasca County Law Library Policy until August 18, 2026

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will discuss statewide affordable housing aid and a license agreement with United States Steel Corporation. The meeting includes decisions on labor memorandums of understanding and a gambling permit for the American Legion Post 122.

• Lease amendment with the State of MN Department of Public Safety: Bureau of Criminal Apprehension
• Memorandum of Understanding with Law Enforcement Labor Services Local 598
• Memorandum of Understanding with AFSCME Local 1452 regarding Post Health Care Savings Plan
• LG214 Premises Permit Application for gambling at Richies Repete, 48644 State Highway 38, Marcell, MN
• License Agreement with United States Steel Corporation

The County Board approved Commissioner and Health & Human Services warrants totaling $1,684,246.91. The board also allocated Statewide Affordable Housing Aid funds to the ICHRA Community Land Trust and approved several labor agreements and land-use permits.

• Approved Commissioner Warrants of $584,371.70 (5-0)
• Approved Health & Human Services Warrants of $1,099,875.21 (5-0)
• Allocated 2024 ($129,700), 2025 ($55,312), and 2026 ($67,765) SAHA dollars to ICHRA Community Land Trust projects (5-0)
• Approved License Agreement with United States Steel Corporation for Blue Lake public water access (5-0)
• Approved Forest Service Payment methodology (5-0)
• Approved job postings for 8 positions including Assistant County Attorney and Road Deputies (5-0)
• Approved LG214 Premises Permit for American Legion Post 122 gambling at Richies Repete (5-0)
• Approved MOUs with Law Enforcement Labor Services Local 598 and AFSCME Local 1452 (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider a consent agenda that includes routine actions such as a resignation, a collective bargaining agreement, a tobacco license, a lighting contract award, and an agency agreement. The board will also address commissioner warrants, an employee expense report, and recognize National Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision Week. An administrator update, committee reports, citizen input, and closed‑session items are scheduled for discussion.

• Accept resignation of Jan Noles from the Bowstring Airport Commission
• Approve the 2025‑2027 Collective Bargaining Agreement with Law Enforcement Labor Services Local 644 Sheriffs Office Sergeants
• Approve tobacco license for EverPine, LLC dba Rocket's Liquor Store at 45 E Highway 2, Cohasset, MN
• Award HSIP Intersection Lighting contract (SP 031‑070‑011) to PEC Solutions LLC dba Parsons Electric for $513,695.00
• Adopt Resolution Re: Agency Agreement No.1063834 and authorize signatures

The Itasca County Board approved the consent agenda, including a collective bargaining agreement with sheriff's office sergeants, a tobacco license for Rocket's Liquor Store, and a $513,695 contract for intersection lighting. The board also approved $1,798,060.60 in commissioner warrants and employee expense reimbursements. All votes were 4-0 with Commissioner Terry Snyder absent.

• Approved consent agenda including 2025-2027 labor agreement with Law Enforcement Labor Services Local 644 (4-0)
• Approved tobacco license for EverPine, LLC dba Rocket's Liquor Store in Cohasset (4-0)
• Awarded $513,695.00 HSIP Intersection Lighting contract to PEC Solutions LLC dba Parsons Electric, contingent on Office of Civil Rights approval (4-0)
• Approved commissioner warrants totaling $1,798,060.60 (4-0)
• Approved employee expense reimbursements for expenses submitted over 60 days late (4-0)
• Approved agenda and July 14, 2026 minutes (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and receive an informational update on the Mesabi Trail.

• Approval of April 14, 2026 meeting minutes
• Mesabi Trail updates from Sara Thompson

The Regional Railroad Authority approved additions to the agenda and the minutes from April 14, 2026. The board received informational updates on the Mesabi Trail but took no action.

• Approved additions/corrections to the agenda (5-0)
• Approved minutes of April 14, 2026 meeting (5-0)
• Informational update on Mesabi Trail (No action taken)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will hold a regular session including consent agenda items like a Taconite Environmental Protection Fund grant for the US Highway 2 trail project and a lease agreement with the Northern Minnesota Swap Meet and Car Show. Regular agenda items include employee recognition, commissioner warrants, scheduling budget sessions, a private well protection grant application, and discussion of long-term sites at Trailhead Campground. The meeting also includes an administrator update, committee reports, and citizen input.

• Adopt resolution for Taconite Environmental Protection Fund Grant Application for US Highway 2 Recreational Trail Integration Project
• Approve 2026 event lease agreement with Northern Minnesota Swap Meet and Car Show
• Schedule budget sessions (Commissioner Cory Smith)
• Private well protection grant application (Naesa Myers)
• Trailhead Campground long-term sites discussion (Kory Cease)

The board approved the regular agenda and the consent agenda, adopting the Taconite Environmental Protection Fund grant resolution and a lease with the Northern Minnesota Swap Meet and Car Show. Commissioners approved a warrant for $508,424.95. The board also approved the Private Well Protection Grant and authorized long‑term rental of eight Trailhead Campground sites at $900 per month for 2026. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved agenda amendment to add Item #6.7 (CEDA Quarterly Update) (5-0)
• Adopted Taconite Environmental Protection Fund Grant Application Resolution (5-0)
• Approved 2026 event lease with Northern Minnesota Swap Meet and Car Show (5-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants for $508,424.95 (5-0)
• Approved Private Well Protection Grant (5-0)
• Authorized long‑term rental of 8 Trailhead Campground sites at $900/month (5-0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission will consider a conditional use permit for a commercial dog kennel in Stokes Township, and the Board of Adjustment will hear two variance requests for garage setbacks from water bodies and road centerlines. One variance seeks to build a 24'x28' garage closer to Johnson Lake and State Hwy. 38 than allowed; the other requests a 32'x36' garage closer to Peaceful Valley Road on Sand Lake. The meeting also includes approval of past minutes and a closed session for board education.

• Conditional use permit for commercial dog kennel (Chuck Goering) in W 1/2 of NE NW, Section 27, Stokes Township 60-27
• Variance from Section 5.6.7F and 3.8.1A for 24'x28' garage near Johnson Lake and State Hwy. 38 (Shea Marana)
• Variance from Section 3.8.1C for 32'x36' garage near Peaceful Valley Road on Sand Lake (Ronald & Kathleen Aho)
• Approval of minutes from 6/10/2026 Regular Meeting and 6/15/2026 Special Meeting
• Closed session for board education

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider consent agenda items including a lease agreement and policy updates, then vote on a contract for the Fairgrounds Livestock Pavilion and receive an update on the Outdoor Recreation Plan. Other business includes commissioner warrants and a patriot award presentation.

• Approve earthen material lease to Hawkinson Construction in Section 7, Township 55 North, Range 25 West
• Award Fairgrounds Livestock Pavilion contract
• Approve revised Paid Family and Medical Leave Policy
• Approve donation of a computer to the City of Coleraine
• Update on Itasca County Outdoor Recreation Plan

The Board approved $2,321,859.11 in commissioner warrants and awarded a construction proposal for the Itasca County Fairgrounds Park. Additionally, the Board approved the schedule and public review process for updating the Outdoor Recreation Plan.

• Approved amended agenda (5-0)
• Approved June 23, 2026, meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including PFML policy and computer donation (5-0)
• Approved $2,321,859.11 in commissioner warrants (5-0)
• Awarded Sherman Building proposal for Fairgrounds livestock pavilion (4-1)
• Approved Outdoor Recreation Plan update schedule and review process (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider routine items including the appointment of election judges for the upcoming state primary and general elections, the cancellation of a public hearing, and the approval of a lease agreement with the Itasca County Family YMCA.

• Approve lease agreement with Itasca County Family YMCA (09/01/2026 - 08/31/2029)
• Appoint election judges for August 11, 2026 State Primary and November 3, 2026 State General Election
• Cancel public hearing scheduled for July 7, 2026 regarding CSAH 60 highway easement
• Approve posting RFP for Brokerage Services to sell county-owned properties
• Receive bid recommendation for Bowstring SRE & AD Building Hangar Site Prep Projects

The Itasca County Board approved a bid recommendation for the Bowstring SRE and AD Building Hangar Site Prep Projects, awarding the work to JCF Builders of Pine City, MN, contingent on receiving additional state funding. The board also approved a three-year lease agreement with the Itasca County Family YMCA for space at the Itasca Resource Center, and approved a letter of support for the US iron ore and steel industry. All actions passed by a 5-0 vote.

• Approved the agenda and the minutes of the June 16, 2026, regular session.
• Approved the consent agenda, including posting an RFP for brokerage services for potential sale of county-owned properties, appointing election judges, and canceling a July 7 public hearing on a highway easement.
• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $665,019.32.
• Approved Itasca County Health and Human Services Warrants for June 2026 totaling $1,991,505.11.
• Approved recommending the bid award for the Bowstring SRE & AD Building Hangar Site Prep Projects to JCF Builders, contingent on additional state funding.
• Approved a letter of support regarding 'Reshoring the Future of the US Iron Ore and Steel' to the U.S. Trade Representative.
• Approved a three-year lease agreement (09/01/2026–08/31/2029) with the Itasca County Family YMCA for 6,845 square feet at the Itasca Resource Center.
• Received citizen input from Dave Holmbeck regarding Sand Lake and adding photos to citizen input.

County Board

The Itasca County Board will hold a regular session on June 16, 2026. They are scheduled to discuss and act on the 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), a Construction & Demolition Management Plan final report, and a purchase agreement for land in NESE Section 22. The consent agenda includes contracts for bridge repairs, a forest road project, housing support agreements, and an Opportunity Zone resolution.

• Discuss 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
• Award Forest Road project contract to Wabana Clearing & Excavating for $25,805
• Approve final payment for bridge replacement projects on CSAH 70 (Contract 67009)
• Consider purchase agreement for NESE Section 22, Township 150N, Range 29W
• Accept 2026/2027 Housing Support Agreements

The Board approved the 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Plan and several property transactions. Additional actions included approving job postings, warrants, and a forest land purchase agreement.

• Approved 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Plan (5-0)
• Approved $32,967.00 purchase of 40.7 acres of forest land (5-0)
• Approved $319,859.44 in commissioner warrants (5-0)
• Approved job postings for Public Health Nurse, Forester, and Engineering Tech (5-0)
• Approved employee expense reimbursements over 60 days (4-0)
• Awarded Forest Road project contract to Wabana Clearing & Excavating for $25,805.00 (5-0 via consent)
• Approved repurchase of parcel 89-036-3140 by Rajala Lumber Company (5-0 via consent)
• Approved Limited Use Permit for Highway 65 trail detour (5-0 via consent)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will consider an amendment to a previously approved variance for a dwelling and deck on North Star Lake. The request involves changing the distance from the Ordinary High Water Level.

• Amend Variance #250818 for North Star Lake dwelling/deck setback
• Variance from Section 5.6.7 of the Zoning Ordinance
• Property: Part of Govt. 5, Section 5, Unorganized Township 58-26

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission will consider a conditional use permit to establish a commercial dog kennel in Stokes Township. The Board of Adjustment will hear two variance requests: one for a dwelling and septic system setback from Long Lake, and another for a dwelling addition setback at Burnt Shanty Lake. The meeting also includes approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Conditional Use Permit for commercial dog kennel – W 1/2 of NE NW, Section 27, Stokes Township (Chuck Goering)
• Variance from OHWL setback for dwelling and septic system on Long Lake – Lot 5 in Unorganized Township (Dean & Lisa Carsrud)
• Variance from side setback for dwelling addition on Burnt Shanty Lake – Lot 3, Block 1, Burnt Shanty Lake Leased Homesites (Jon & Marcia Folven)
• Approval of minutes from the 5/13/2026 regular meeting

The Planning Commission approved variance applications for a new dwelling in Unorganized Township and a cabin addition in Balsam Township. A conditional use permit for a commercial kennel in Stokes Township was tabled for one month pending legal review.

• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved May 13, 2026 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled Chuck Goering conditional use application for a commercial kennel for one month (unanimous)
• Approved Dean & Lisa Carsrud variance for a 30x54' dwelling and advanced septic system (unanimous)
• Approved Jon & Marcia Folven variance for a 28'x12' cabin addition (unanimous)

County Board