Itasca County public meetings in 2024

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will hold a special session to determine 2025 salaries for several elected officials and compensation for appointed employees. The meeting also includes discussions on American Rescue Plan funding and the County Assessor business model.

• 2025 salaries for County Attorney
• 2025 salaries for County Auditor/Treasurer
• 2025 salaries for County Recorder
• 2025 salaries for County Sheriff
• 2025 salaries for County Commissioners/Chair

The Itasca County Board approved 2025 salaries for the County Attorney, Auditor/Treasurer, Recorder, Sheriff, and Commissioners, with votes ranging from 4-0 to 3-1. They also approved $92,000 in ARP funding for Cohasset's Industrial Park Power Upgrade. Action on the County Assessor Business Model and a 6% wage increase for appointed employees was tabled.

• Approved $92,000 ARP request for Cohasset Industrial Park Power Upgrade (4-0)
• Approved 2025 County Attorney salary at $145,600 (4-0)
• Approved 2025 County Auditor/Treasurer salary at $132,022.80 (3-1)
• Approved 2025 County Recorder salary at $108,883.20 (3-1)
• Approved 2025 County Sheriff salary at $134,561.70 (3-1)
• Approved 2025 Commissioner salary at $36,069.33 plus $1,200 for Chair (4-0)
• Tabled County Assessor Business Model until late January 2025
• Tabled 6% wage increase for appointed employees for 60 days

County Board

The Itasca County Board holds a work session to discuss upcoming contracts, program updates, and salary adjustments. Commissioners will review several 2025‑2026 contracts and American Rescue Plan requests before setting the 2025 salaries for elected officials. A closed‑session segment will address labor negotiations.

• 2025‑2026 Crisis Contract presentation by Becky Lauer
• 2025‑2026 CSP Contract presentation by Becky Lauer
• 2025 Medical Consultant Contract for Public Health presented by Naesa Myers
• 2025 Fairgrounds Park Property Management Contract presented by Spring Higley and Kory Cease
• Set 2025 salary for County Sheriff (Chair presentation)

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners held a work session on December 17, 2024, and approved a series of American Rescue Plan (ARP) grants to local entities, including $50,000 for the Free Range Food Co-op, $10,000 for Bigfork Township, and $7,500 each for The Great Outdoors Bottle Shop and Bait and Trailside Restaurant and Bar. The board also approved several contracts, including a $1.8 million crisis contract with DHS, a $45,000 legislative services agreement with Flaherty & Hood, and a $66,000 property management contract for the Fairgrounds Park. A special session was scheduled for December 26, 2024, to address remaining ARP funding and 2025 salaries.

• Approved 2025-2026 Crisis Contract with DHS ($1,803,367) (4-0)
• Approved ARP request for Free Range Food Co-op ($50,000) (4-0)
• Approved ARP request for The Great Outdoors Bottle Shop and Bait ($7,500) (4-0)
• Approved ARP request for Trailside Restaurant and Bar ($7,500) (4-0)
• Approved ARP request for City of Coleraine ($8,940) (4-0)
• Approved ARP request for Bigfork Township ($10,000) (4-0)
• Approved Legislative Services Agreement with Flaherty & Hood ($45,000) (4-0)
• Scheduled Special Session for December 26, 2024 (4-0)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will consider funding requests from the Transportation Department and Kiesler Wellness Center using American Rescue Plan funds. The meeting includes decisions on liquor licenses, service contracts, and highway construction labor agreements for 2025.

• Award of 2026 Containerized Seedling Contract to PRT USA, Inc. for $48,462.60
• Contract 67009 for two CSAH 70 Bridge Replacements awarded to S & R Reinforcing, Inc.
• Project Labor Agreements for 2025 Highway Construction Projects
• New 2025 tobacco license for Rocket's Liquor LLC in Cohasset
• MnDOT Limited Use Permit Resolution for Greenway Trail

The Itasca County Board approved a $2,737,036.37 contract with S & R Reinforcing, Inc. for two CSAH 70 bridge replacements, and approved multiple project labor agreement (PLA) attachments for 2025 highway projects. The board also approved a one-year extension of the CEDA service contract for $108,129 with a 3-1 vote, and approved several other contracts, licenses, and ARP fund requests.

• Approved $2,737,036.37 CSAH 70 bridge replacement contract to S & R Reinforcing, Inc. (4-0)
• Approved one-year CEDA service contract extension for $108,129 (3-1)
• Approved PLA requirement for CSAH 7 project (4-0)
• Approved attaching CSAH 59 to CSAH 8 project with PLA requirement (4-0)
• Approved attaching CSAH 32 and CSAH 24 to CSAH 29 project (4-0)
• Approved $953,789.50 in commissioner warrants (4-0)
• Approved $70,000 ARP request for District 4 road improvements (4-0)
• Approved 2022-2024 LELS 494 Corrections collective bargaining agreement (4-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority will discuss a request to retain outside legal counsel, specifically Jacob Fauchald and Karin Grandia. The item is listed under the Discussion/Informational section, indicating no formal vote is scheduled. The meeting is a special session held on December 12, 2024.

• Request to retain outside legal counsel (Jacob Fauchald, Karin Grandia) – discussion/informational

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority authorized the retention of Mullins Law Group PLLC for legal guidance on issues related to the proposed use of rail lines under its jurisdiction, and approved the proposed engagement letter. The engagement letter outlines hourly rates for attorneys, billing terms, and conflict-of-interest provisions. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Authorized retention of Mullins Law Group for legal counsel on rail line issues
• Approved the proposed engagement letter with Mullins Law Group

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The commission will review a conditional use application for a 250‑ft communications tower with a 9‑ft lightning rod proposed by Verizon Wireless/Hundred Acre Wood Resort LLC in Section 27, Unorganized Township 145‑26. It will also consider a variance request to allow a 28‑by‑28‑ft garage that does not meet setback requirements from US Hwy 2, the side property line, and the ordinary high water level of Sand Lake, submitted by Healing Faith Trust for Lot 5, Aud. Subd. 2, Feeley Township. The meeting includes routine items such as approval of the minutes from the 11/13/2024 meeting and a report from the Water Plan Implementation Committee.

• Conditional use application for a 250‑ft communications tower (Verizon Wireless/Hundred Acre Wood Resort LLC) – Section 27, Unorganized Township 145‑26
• Variance request for a 28’ x 28’ garage not meeting setbacks from US Hwy 2, side property line, and Sand Lake OHWL – Lot 5, Aud. Subd. 2, Feeley Township (Healing Faith Trust)
• Approval of minutes from the 11/13/2024 regular meeting
• Water Plan Implementation Committee (WPIC) report
• Adjournment of Planning Commission meeting and opening of Board of Adjustment meeting

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved a conditional use permit for a 259-foot Verizon communications tower and a variance for a 28x28-foot garage near Sand Lake. Both decisions were unanimous and included conditions to follow best management practices during construction. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved CUP for 250-ft Verizon tower (259-ft with lightning rod) at Hundred Acre Wood Resort LLC (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 28x28-ft garage at Healing Faith Trust, 124 ft from US Hwy 2, 5 ft from side lot line, 95 ft from Sand Lake OHWL (unanimous)
• Approved 11/13/2024 minutes as amended (unanimous)

County Board

The board will consider several consent‑agenda items, including approval of health‑services contracts, a reallocation of a health educator position, the award of a bridge‑replacement contract, a $48,462.60 seedling contract, and a contract for Scenic Buck Lake Pit expansion. The work session also includes informational presentations on local cannabis management, highway project labor agreements, Habitat for Humanity, the Kiesler Wellness Center, and economic‑development service contracts. The meeting will conclude with a public session on levy and budget adoption.

• Approve Itasca County Health and Human Services 2025 Purchase of Service Contracts and authorize signatures.
• Reallocate one open Health Educator position to a Public Health Nurse position.
• Award contract 67009 for two CSAH 70 Bridge Replacements to S & R Reinforcing, Inc.
• Award the 2026 Containerized Seedling Contract to PRT USA, Inc. for $48,462.60 from Forest Resources Fund 12.
• Approve service contract with TNT Construction Group LLC for expansion of the Scenic Buck Lake Pit.

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners held a public meeting and formally adopted the 2025 county budget and property tax levy. The approved budget totals $181.6 million in expenditures, supported by a $43.5 million levy. The board also approved several service contracts and administrative items during the session.

• Adopted 2025 County Levy and Budget ($43.5M levy) (3-0)
• Approved $7,000 ARP grant for Kiesler Wellness Center (3-0)
• Approved $35,790 contract with TNT Construction Group for pit expansion (3-0)
• Approved $133,008.69 in Commissioner Warrants (3-0)
• Directed staff to establish a Local Cannabis Management Committee (Consensus)
• Pulled ARP request for Bigfork Township from agenda
• Pulled IEDC and CEDA service contracts from agenda

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will review funding requests from the Sheriff's Office, Bigfork Valley Community Foundation, and Marcell Family Center. The board is also deciding on several infrastructure payments and a nursing facility application.

• 2025 Equitable Cost-Sharing for Publicly Owned Nursing Facilities (ECPN) Application for $109,504.40
• Final payments for bridge replacement on CR 336, 2024 Bituminous Projects, and grading/base project on CSAH 52
• Tobacco license for Circle K #2746564 at 105 SW 23rd Ave, Grand Rapids
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) requests for the Sheriff's Office, Bigfork Valley Community Foundation, and Marcell Family Center
• Updated Itasca County Timber Sale Policy

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners approved a consent agenda including resolutions on commissioner per diems and reimbursable expenses, a $109,504.40 ECPN application, a Daikin maintenance agreement, and a new Facilities Manager position. They also approved $12,298,898.39 in commissioner warrants, $1,520,088.07 in ICHHS warrants, and three American Rescue Plan (ARP) requests totaling $37,000. The board approved a Protective Footwear Policy and made appointments to the NW MN Juvenile Center Board.

• Approved $12,298,898.39 in Commissioner Warrants (3-0)
• Approved $1,520,088.07 in ICHHS Warrants (3-0)
• Approved $20,000 ARP request for Sheriff's Office Safe Road Zone Funding (3-0)
• Approved $10,000 ARP request for Bigfork Valley Community Foundation (3-0)
• Approved $7,000 ARP request for Marcell Family Center (3-0)
• Approved Protective Footwear Policy (3-0)
• Approved NW MN Juvenile Center Board appointments (3-0)
• Approved consent agenda including per diem and expense resolutions (3-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider a consent agenda approving several contracts, final payments, a lease amendment, and an updated timber sale policy. Discussion items include citizen input, commissioner warrants, a proposed TIF district for Grand Rapids, the CEDA 2024 final report, and a resolution to adopt the Comprehensive Water Management Plan for the Upper Mississippi–Grand Rapids Watershed. The board will also address a protective footwear policy, out‑of‑state travel for training, and 2025 legislative priorities.

• Approve final payment for Contract 59832, a bridge replacement project on CR 336
• Approve final payment for Contract 63512 – 2024 Bituminous Projects
• Approve amendment #8 to Thistledew Camp Lease #9887 with the Department of Corrections
• Resolution to adopt and implement the Comprehensive Water Management Plan for the Upper Mississippi–Grand Rapids Watershed
• City of Grand Rapids establishment of TIF District 1-17

The Itasca County Board approved the appointment of William Hilback as Interim County Assessor, approved multiple American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding requests, and declared a vacancy in County Commissioner District 4, calling for a special election. The board also approved several consent agenda items, including agreements and contracts, and adopted resolutions on per diems, reimbursable expenses, and the 2025 meeting schedule.

• Appointed William Hilback as Interim County Assessor (4-0)
• Approved ARP requests: $2,500 for Veteran Services, $7,000 for City of Bigfork, $50,000 for Coleraine Bovey Taconite Joint Wastewater Commission (4-0)
• Declared vacancy in County Commissioner District 4; special election set for Feb 11, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $1,480,892.60 (4-0)
• Approved lease agreement for Lights in the Pines event at Itasca County Fairgrounds (4-0)
• Authorized use of County Road 63 for Cohasset Connection Snowmobile Spur Trail (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-46 on Commissioner Per Diems (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-48 for 2025 Board Meeting Schedule (4-0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will approve the minutes from the October 9 meeting, consider a conditional use request to build a second Group Home II for up to 16 residents at Cohasset Heights, and evaluate multiple variance applications that seek setbacks and size exceptions for structures near lakes and highways.

• Conditional Use to construct a second Group Home II (up to 16 residents) on Lots 17 & 18, Cohasset Heights, Section 34, Unorganized Township 56-26 (within 1,000 ft of Bass Lake)
• Variance for a 16’x56’ manufactured home and 6’x56’ deck at Lots 27‑30, Urika Beach, Section 23, Harris Township (setback from OHWL of Pokegama Lake)
• Variance to replace a 24’x32’ garage with a 28’x40’ garage at Govt Lot 3, Section 20, Marcell Township (setback from State Hwy 38 and OHWL of Little North Star Lake)
• Variance for a 4,800 SF addition at Govt Lot 10, Section 18, Marcell Township (setback from State Hwy 38 and impervious‑surface limits)
• Variance to construct a 10’x50’ deck at Lot 2, Block 1, Thorpe Bros Deer Lake Cabin Sites, Section 31, Unorganized Township 57-26 (setback from OHWL of Deer Lake)

The Itasca County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment approved a conditional use permit for a second group home and four separate property variances involving setbacks and impervious surfaces. The decisions included conditions regarding construction practices, removing unapproved living quarters, and lakeshore mitigation.

• Approved conditional use permit for Autumn Lane/Dave & Leanne Brenden for a second Group Home II for up to 16 residents with conditions (carried unanimously)
• Approved amended variance for Paul & Sandra Venne for a manufactured home and deck with conditions including the removal of unapproved garage living quarters (carried unanimously)
• Approved variance for Gary & Teresa Tonneslan/Scott Stoltenberg for a 28'x40' garage with construction best management practices condition (carried unanimously)
• Approved variance for Marcell Community Church/Robert Bourman for a church addition up to 5,000 square feet exceeding impervious surface limits with conditions (carried unanimously)
• Approved variance for Janelle DeSanto (VLS LLC) for a 10'x50' deck with lakeshore mitigation and best management practices conditions (carried unanimously)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider several agreements, including a joint powers amendment with the City of Grand Rapids and a Taconite State Trail agreement. Commissioners will discuss local regulation of adult-use cannabis and a Lights in the Pines event agreement. A closed‑session item will address the Walmart vs. Itasca County lawsuit. The meeting also includes updates on legislative priorities and county assessor matters.

• Approve amendment to Joint Powers Agreement with the City of Grand Rapids
• Approve Taconite State Trail Agreement between Itasca County and the State of Minnesota
• Discuss local regulation of adult-use cannabis
• Review Lights in the Pines event agreement
• Closed session: Walmart vs. Itasca County lawsuit

The Itasca County Board approved $1,480,892.60 in commissioner warrants, appointed William Hilback as interim county assessor, and approved three American Rescue Plan (ARP) requests totaling $59,500. The board also rescheduled the December 10 regular session to December 12 due to lack of quorum, and approved a lease agreement for the Lights in the Pines event with an amended fee of $1,000. Several items were informational only, including discussions on 2025 legislative priorities, county assessor office structure, and local regulation of adult-use cannabis.

• Approved $1,480,892.60 in commissioner warrants (4-0)
• Appointed William Hilback as interim county assessor (4-0)
• Approved $2,500 ARP request for Veteran Services counseling (4-0)
• Approved $7,000 ARP request for City of Bigfork parks (4-0)
• Approved $50,000 ARP request for CBT wastewater line (4-0)
• Rescheduled Dec. 10 board session to Dec. 12 at 1:30 PM (4-0)
• Approved Lights in the Pines lease with $1,000 fee (4-0)
• Authorized County Road 63 use for snowmobile spur trail (4-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority will convene to approve previous meeting minutes and discuss the 2025 schedule of regular meetings and the Mesabi Trail. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at 2:00 PM in the Itasca County Boardroom.

• Approve minutes from July 9, 2024 meeting
• 2025 Schedule of Regular Meetings discussion
• Mesabi Trail Discussion
• Meeting location: Itasca County Boardroom
• Meeting date: Tuesday, November 12, 2024

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority approved its 2025 regular meeting schedule and special meeting notice procedure via Resolution 2024-1. The board also approved the July 9, 2024 minutes and pulled the Mesabi Trail discussion from the agenda. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted Resolution 2024-1 establishing 2025 regular meeting schedule and special meeting notice procedure (4-0)
• Approved minutes of July 9, 2024 meeting (4-0)
• Pulled Mesabi Trail discussion from agenda (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider a consent agenda that includes routine approvals such as a $12,460 state grant for airport improvements, appointments to the Housing and Redevelopment Authority, and contracts for local health providers. The board will also vote on a $93,090 service contract with Widseth for design, bidding and construction management of the Squaw Lake Multi-use Recreational Trail bridge. Regular agenda items cover citizen input, employee recognition, various warrants, a bid award for a runway obstruction removals project, a memorandum with Teamsters Local 320, and a TriMin contract ratification. Part of the meeting may be closed to the public for confidential matters.

• Authorize $12,460 Minnesota DOT grant agreement for Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport improvement (Project No. A3101-103).
• Appoint Kim Clark as Resident Commissioner on the Itasca County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (term until Dec 31, 2025).
• Authorize IMCare Director and County Board Chair to sign contracts with Grand Rapids Orthodontics and Port City Dental dba West Range Dental.
• Approve $93,090 service contract with Widseth for professional design, bidding, and construction management of the Squaw Lake Multi-use Recreational Trail bridge.
• Award bid for the Runway Obstruction Removals Project.

The Itasca County Board approved increased billing rates for city and township road maintenance contracts, setting 2025/2026 rates at $850/mile for grading and $950/mile for snowplowing, with 2026/2027 rates set at $1,250/mile and $1,625/mile respectively. The board also approved a consent agenda including a $12,460 airport grant agreement, a $93,090 trail bridge design contract, and several other administrative items. All votes were 3-0 with two commissioners absent.

• Approved 2025/2026 maintenance rates of $850/mile grading and $950/mile snowplowing (3-0)
• Set 2026/2027 maintenance rates at $1,250/mile grading and $1,625/mile snowplowing (3-0)
• Approved $12,460 MnDOT airport improvement grant agreement (3-0)
• Approved $93,090 Widseth contract for Squaw Lake trail bridge design (3-0)
• Awarded $7,200 runway obstruction removal contract to Foth's Top Notch Tree Service (3-0)
• Approved $1,248,502.34 in commissioner warrants (3-0)
• Approved $1,618,178.46 in ICHHS warrants (3-0)
• Appointed Kim Clark to HRA Resident Commissioner position (3-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will meet for a work session to discuss and vote on several items, including a grant agreement for airport improvements and a service contract for a recreational trail bridge. The board will also consider designating two county roads as memorial by-ways and appointing a commissioner to the Housing and Redevelopment Authority.

• Authorize $12,460 Minnesota DOT grant for Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport
• Approve $93,090 contract with Widseth for Squaw Lake Multi-use Recreational Trail bridge
• Appoint Kim Clark to Itasca County Housing and Redevelopment Authority
• Designate County Road 59 as Mason L. Hurlbut Memorial By-Way
• Designate County Road 57 as Jack R. Ziemer MIA/POW Memorial By-Way

The Board designated County Roads 57 and 59 as memorial by-ways and approved $2,529,599.87 in commissioner warrants. Several items, including an airport grant and HRA appointment, were recommended for the next consent agenda. The Board also approved 2025 IMCare/DHS contracts.

• Approved $2,529,599.87 in Commissioner Warrants (4-0)
• Designated County Road 59 as Mason L. Hurlbut Memorial By-Way (4-0)
• Designated County Road 57 as Jack R. Ziemer MIA/POW Memorial By-Way (4-0)
• Approved 2025 IMCare/DHS Families and Children and Seniors contracts (4-0)
• Recommended $12,460 airport improvement grant for consent
• Recommended appointment of Kim Clark to HRA Resident Commissioner for consent
• Recommended $93,090 Widseth contract for Squaw Lake trail bridge for consent
• Recommended tentative sponsorship of Effie Connection ATV Trail for consent

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will meet to consider two variance requests regarding property setbacks. These requests involve the construction of a manufactured home and the replacement of a garage.

• Variance for 16’x56’ manufactured home and 6’x56’ deck at Lot 29, Urika Beach, Harris Township
• Variance for 28’x40’ garage replacement at Part of Govt Lot 3, Section 20, Marcell Township

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment tabled two variance applications at its Oct. 9 meeting, both to be reconsidered on Nov. 13. The first, by Paul and Sandra Venne, involves a manufactured home and deck near Pokegama Lake; the second, by Gary and Teresa Tonneslan and Scott Stoltenberg, involves a garage replacement near State Hwy. 38. Both were tabled to allow applicants to amend their requests. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Tabled Venne variance application to 11/13/2024 for amendment (unanimous)
• Tabled Tonneslan/Stoltenberg variance application to 11/13/2024 for amendment (unanimous)
• Approved 9/11/2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will review routine consent agenda items, including appointments and inter‑agency agreements, before moving to regular agenda business. Commissioners will discuss a generator maintenance proposal, reschedule the 2025 budget and levy public meeting, and consider a storage lease agreement with the ICAA. A closed session will address labor negotiations.

• Appoint Janet Bilden to the Water Plan Implementation Committee (District #3 vacancy, 2024‑2027)
• Approve a three‑year Memorandum of Agreement with University of Minnesota Extension
• Authorize IMCare Director and County Board Chair to sign contract with Grey Matter, LLC
• Generator Maintenance Proposal
• Storage Lease Agreement with ICAA

The Itasca County Board approved $1,128,732.90 in Commissioner Warrants, a three-year generator maintenance proposal with Ziegler/Cat, and a three-year University of Minnesota Extension agreement. The board also rescheduled the 2025 Budget & Levy Public Meeting to December 3, 2024, and entered a closed session on labor negotiations. All votes were 4-0 with District #4 vacant.

• Approved $1,128,732.90 in Commissioner Warrants (4-0)
• Approved three-year generator maintenance proposal with Ziegler/Cat (4-0)
• Approved three-year MOA with University of Minnesota Extension (4-0)
• Rescheduled 2025 Budget & Levy Public Meeting to Dec 3, 2024 (4-0)
• Approved 2024 Storage Lease Agreement with Itasca County Agricultural Association (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-41 proclaiming Oct 24 as Lights On Afterschool Day (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-42 designating Nov 2024 as Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Month (4-0)
• Entered closed session re: labor negotiations (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will review several items, including appointing a member to the Water Plan Implementation Committee and approving a three‑year memorandum of agreement with the University of Minnesota Extension. The board will also authorize signatures for a contract between IMCare and Grey Matter, LLC. Additional discussion topics include citizen input, commissioner warrants, a facilities department position reallocation, a request for Northwestern MN Juvenile Center membership, an IRRR culture and tourism grant application, and a storage lease agreement with ICAA.

• Appoint Janet Bilden to the Water Plan Implementation Committee (District #3 vacancy)
• Approve a three‑year Memorandum of Agreement with University of Minnesota Extension
• Authorize IMCare Director and County Board Chair to sign contract with Grey Matter, LLC
• Contract award for the Bass Lake Park Project
• Storage lease agreement with ICAA

The Itasca County Board approved the Bass Lake Park construction contract to Gilbert Contracting Services for $213,528, approved a letter requesting membership in the Northwestern MN Juvenile Center, and approved warrants totaling $685,664.62. The board also directed staff to revise qualifications for a new Facilities Manager position before reconsideration. Three items were recommended for the consent agenda at the next regular meeting.

• Approved Bass Lake Park construction contract to Gilbert Contracting Services for $213,528 (4-0)
• Approved letter requesting Northwestern MN Juvenile Center membership effective Jan 1, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants of $685,664.62 (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-40 for IRRR Culture & Tourism grant application (4-0)
• Directed staff to revise Facilities Manager position qualifications before reconsideration (no formal vote)
• Recommended for consent: appoint Janet Bilden to WPIC, approve U of M Extension MOA, authorize IMCare-Grey Matter contract

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will review the 2025 proposed levy and receive an update on the County Based Purchasing (IMCare) Division. The meeting also includes approvals for airport grants and bridge service contracts.

• 2025 Proposed Levy
• FAA Grant Agreement for Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport Project No. 3-27-0037-030-2024
• Bridge construction inspection contract with LHB for CSAH 70 over Trout Creek and Swan River
• Bridge design contract with Bolton & Menk for CSAH 71 over Swan River and CR 533 over Deer River
• Closed session regarding labor negotiations

The Itasca County Board approved the 2025 proposed tax levy of $43,557,747, a 2.98% increase over 2024, along with proposed unorganized fire and road & bridge levies, and scheduled a public meeting for December 10, 2024. The board also approved warrants totaling $3,814,679.55, authorized bridge inspection and design contracts, and filled several committee vacancies left by the late Commissioner Ives.

• Adopted 2025 proposed levy of $43,557,747 (4-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants of $2,187,250.85 (4-0)
• Approved ICHHS Warrants of $1,627,428.70 (4-0)
• Approved FAA grant agreement for airport Taxiway A project (4-0)
• Authorized LHB bridge inspection contract for CSAH 70 (4-0)
• Authorized Bolton & Menk bridge design contract for CSAH 71 & CR 533 (4-0)
• Appointed commissioners to fill Ives' committee seats (consensus)
• Scheduled public levy meeting for Dec 10, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will meet to approve a liquor permit and two bridge service contracts. The session includes a closed discussion on labor negotiations.

• Approve Set-up Liquor Permit for Barn in the Woods Wedding & Event Center
• Authorize contract with LHB for bridge construction inspection services
• Authorize contract with Bolton & Menk for bridge design services
• Closed session to discuss labor negotiations
• Upcoming budget work session on September 24

The Itasca County Board declared a vacancy in District #4 following the passing of Commissioner Burl Ives. They approved a 40-year lease with the State for the Canisteo Legacy Mine Pit outlet project and a liquor permit for Barn in the Woods. Two bridge service contracts were recommended for approval at the next meeting.

• Declared District #4 vacant following Commissioner Burl Ives' passing
• Approved 40-year lease for Canisteo Legacy Mine Pit outlet project (3-0)
• Approved Set-up Liquor Permit for Barn in the Woods (3-0)
• Approved flying Courthouse flag at half-staff Sept 18-20 (3-0)
• Recommended LHB bridge inspection contract for consent on 09/24
• Recommended Bolton & Menk bridge design contract for consent on 09/24

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will meet to consider five requests for variances from the Zoning Ordinance. These requests involve setbacks for garages, a pole building, and sewage or holding tank installations.

• Variance for 30’x30’ garage setback from W Horseshoe Lake Road and rear property line (Richard & Sharon Kleinau)
• Variance for 30’x40’ pole building addition setback from State Hwy 65 and West Buck Lake Road (Jay & Yvonne Hinnekamp)
• Variance for 32’x50’ garage and sewage treatment setback from Burrows Lake OHWL (William & Kelly Grunz)
• Variance for 22’x36’ garage setback from Pleasant Circle Road and rear property line (Timothy Kerian)
• Variance for holding tank setback from Little Bass Lake OHWL (Ryan & Lynne Anderson)

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved all five variance applications on the agenda, each unanimously and with conditions. All approvals included a condition to comply with Best Management Practices during construction; one also required silt fences. The meeting was procedural and no other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Kleinau variance for 30'x30' garage (unanimous, with BMP condition)
• Approved Hinnenkamp variance for 30'x40' pole building (unanimous, with BMP condition)
• Approved Grunz variance for 32'x50' garage and septic (unanimous, with BMP condition)
• Approved Kerian variance for 22'x36' garage (unanimous, with BMP condition)
• Approved Anderson variance for holding tank, amended to 60' from OHWL (unanimous, with BMP and silt fence conditions)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider several consent agenda items, including a one‑day liquor license for Great Tails Animal Rescue, laptop donations to local clinics, an event lease for the North Star Expo, a $68,950 landscape design contract, and final payment for a paving contract. The regular agenda includes discussion of a joint powers agreement with the City of Grand Rapids, American Rescue Plan requests from Nashwauk and Bearville townships, and a reappointment performance review. A closed session will address labor negotiations.

• Approve a One Day On‑Sale Liquor License for Great Tails Animal Rescue at 37037 Baich Rd, Bovey, MN
• Approve donation of 4 laptops and docks to Project Care Clinic and 2 laptops and docks to Bovey Public Library
• Approve Event Lease Agreement for the 2024 North Star Expo with the Minnesota Timber Producers Association
• Approve service contract with Aune Fernandez Landscape Architects for $68,950 for design, bidding, and construction management services
• Approve final payment for Contract 60732 – Bituminous Paving Projects

The Itasca County Board approved a $68,950 service contract with Aune Fernandez Landscape Architects for design, bidding, and construction management of the Nashwauk Trailhead project. The board also approved two $10,000 American Rescue Plan requests for Nashwauk and Bearville townships, and a $1,160,382.90 warrant payment. All votes were 4-0, with Commissioner Terry Snyder absent.

• Approved $68,950 contract with Aune Fernandez Landscape Architects for Nashwauk Trailhead (4-0)
• Approved $10,000 ARP request from Nashwauk Township for Cloverdale Park fencing and road repair (4-0)
• Approved $10,000 ARP request from Bearville Township for town hall rehab (4-0)
• Approved $1,160,382.90 in Commissioner Warrants (4-0)
• Approved amendment to Joint Powers Agreement with City of Grand Rapids (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including liquor license, equipment donation, expo lease, and paving final payment (4-0)
• Approved closed session for labor negotiations (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will consider several consent agenda items, including an amendment to the joint powers agreement with the City of Grand Rapids, a donation of laptops to Project Care Clinic and Bovey Public Library, and the final payment for Contract 60732 covering bituminous paving projects. The board will also review event lease agreements for the 2024 North Star Expo. Additional discussion topics include a wheelage tax, an ATV trail proposal, an American Rescue Plan request for the City of Bovey, and a housing authority update. The meeting includes a closed‑session portion on the County Assessor reappointment performance review.

• Approve amendment to Joint Powers Agreement with the City of Grand Rapids
• Approve donation of 4 laptops and docks to Project Care Clinic and 2 laptops and docks to Bovey Public Library
• Approve final payment for Contract 60732 – Bituminous Paving Projects
• Approve Event Lease Agreement with Minnesota Timber Producers Association for the 2024 North Star Expo
• Discuss wheelage tax

The Itasca County Board held a work session and voted 4-1 not to reappoint County Assessor Amber Peratalo at the end of her current term. The board also approved a $45,000 American Rescue Plan request from the City of Bovey for Phase 2, and scheduled a public meeting for September 25, 2024, to discuss a proposed ATV trail from Bigfork to Effie. Several items were recommended for the consent agenda at the next regular session, including a $68,950 contract for Nashwauk Trailhead design services and a final payment for bituminous paving projects.

• Not reappoint County Assessor Amber Peratalo (4-1)
• Approved $45,000 ARP request from City of Bovey for Phase 2 (5-0)
• Scheduled public meeting on Effie Connection ATV trail for Sept 25 at Effie City Hall (5-0)
• Approved agenda as amended, adding Nashwauk Trailhead contract item (5-0)
• Approved minutes of Aug 27 regular session (5-0)
• Recommended $68,950 Aune Fernandez Landscape Architects contract for consent agenda
• Recommended final payment for Contract 60732 bituminous paving projects for consent agenda
• Recommended donation of 6 laptops/docks to Project Care Clinic and Bovey Public Library for consent agenda

County Board

The County Board of Commissioners will consider several service contracts and land repurchases. The meeting includes presentations from Second Harvest Northland and the 2023 SWCD Activities Report, as well as closed sessions regarding courthouse security and labor negotiations.

• Service contract with Minnesota Pergolas for $54,550.00
• Rent concession for one classroom not to exceed $6,552.00
• Repurchase of part of Government Lot One, Section 24, Township 55 North, Range 22 West
• Repurchase of Lots 20 and 21, Second Addition to Swan Lake
• Truancy Prevention Contract between ICHHS and Ross Resources, Ltd.

The Itasca County Board approved the consent agenda and regular agenda items, including $2.9M in commissioner warrants, a $54,550 contract for a picnic shelter at Bass Lake Park, and two tax-forfeited land repurchases. They also approved a $1,000 sponsorship for the ATVMN Ride & Rally, reallocated a Public Health Nurse position to a Social Worker-HCBS role, and authorized posting vacant positions. Several informational presentations were received with no action taken.

• Approved $2,912,540.32 in commissioner warrants (5-0)
• Approved $54,550 service contract with Minnesota Pergolas for Bass Lake Park pavilion (5-0)
• Approved repurchase of tax-forfeited parcel by Alan Wesley for $625.99 (5-0)
• Approved repurchase of tax-forfeited lots by John Cline for $1,271.72 (5-0)
• Approved $1,000 sponsorship for ATVMN Ride & Rally (4-0, Ives abstained)
• Reallocated 1 Public Health Nurse position to Social Worker-HCBS (5-0)
• Approved posting of vacant positions (5-0)
• Approved $1,167,854.69 in ICHHS warrants (5-0)

County Board

The County Board is meeting for a work session to review several contracts and land-related requests. The agenda includes a public hearing regarding a rezone application and a request to repurchase a tax-forfeited parcel.

• Public hearing for rezone application of David Eckstein and Katie Benes
• Service contract with Minnesota Pergolas for $54,550.00
• Truancy Prevention Contract between ICHHS and Ross Resources, Ltd.
• Rent concession for one classroom not to exceed $6,552.00
• Repurchase application for tax-forfeited parcel by John Cline and Michael Gibbons

The Itasca County Board approved a rezone of David Eckstein's property from Recreational Commercial to Rural Residential, approved a $15,000 ARP request for Arbo Township road improvements, and approved several contracts including a truancy prevention contract and a pavilion construction contract. The board also approved consent agenda items including appointments, donations, and fund transfers. No substantive decisions were made on the short-term rental ordinance, which was only discussed.

• Approved rezone of David Eckstein property from Recreational Commercial to Rural Residential (5-0)
• Approved $15,000 ARP request for Arbo Township Prairie Lake Lane improvements (5-0)
• Approved $1,739,240.98 in commissioner warrants (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including appointments, donations, and $1.5M fund transfer (5-0)
• Approved truancy prevention contract with Ross Resources, Ltd. up to $385,050 (recommended for consent)
• Approved mutual aid agreement for public health and human services (recommended for consent)
• Approved YMCA rent concession up to $6,552 (recommended for consent)
• Approved Minnesota Pergolas service contract for $54,550 (recommended for consent)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider routine consent‑agenda items, including appointments, resignations, a donation of equipment, and a $1,500,000 fund transfer for road maintenance. After citizen input and employee recognition, commissioners will address warrants. The meeting includes a public hearing to adopt a short‑term rental ordinance. A closed session will follow before adjournment.

• Appoint Lilah Crowe to the Extension Committee (term through Dec 31 2026)
• Accept resignation of Leah Griffen from the Itasca County Housing and Redevelopment Authority
• Approve transfer of $1,500,000 from Unorganized Township road and bridge accounts to County Road and Bridge fund
• Approve donation of monitors, TVs, computers, servers and other equipment to PC's for People
• Public hearing on adoption of a Short‑Term Rental Ordinance

The Itasca County Board held a public hearing on a proposed short-term rental ordinance but took no action on it, despite receiving written comments both supporting and opposing the measure. The board approved all other agenda items, including a $1.5 million transfer for unorganized township road maintenance and a $15,000 American Rescue Plan request from Arbo Township.

• Approved agenda as amended (5-0)
• Approved minutes of Aug 6 work session (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including appointments and $1.5M road fund transfer (5-0)
• Approved $1,739,240.98 in commissioner warrants (5-0)
• Opened and closed public hearing on short-term rental ordinance; no action taken
• Approved $15,000 ARP request from Arbo Township for Prairie Lake Lane improvements (5-0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Planning Commission will meet to discuss a rezoning request in Harris Township. The body will also receive a report from the Water Plan Implementation Committee.

• Proposed rezone from Recreational Commercial to Rural Residential for David & Jacalyn Eckstein in Harris Township (Section 17)

The Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment recommended approval of a rezone application for a property in Harris Township, changing its zoning from Recreational Commercial to Rural Residential. The motion was unanimous and will be forwarded to the County Board for final decision. The meeting also included approval of prior minutes and a report on water plan issues.

• Approved minutes of 7/10/2024 hearing (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of rezone from Recreational Commercial to Rural Residential for David Eckstein and Jacalyn Ward-Eckstein (unanimous)

County Board

The board will consider several consent agenda items, including appointments to committees and commissions, a donation of computer equipment to PC's for People, and a transfer of $1,500,000 from unorganized township road and bridge accounts to the County Road and Bridge fund for road maintenance. The meeting also includes citizen input, a presentation on appointing a Veterans Service Officer, a transportation department annual report, and updates to the Minnesota Government Data Practices Manual. This work session provides in‑depth review before any regular‑session action.

• Appoint Lilah Crowe to the Extension Committee to fill an unexpired vacancy (effective Aug 14 2024‑Dec 31 2026)
• Approve donation of 40 monitors, 4 televisions, 30 desktop computers, 26 network switches, 12 rack‑mount servers, 3 rack‑mount KVMs, 34 laptops, and 7 printers to PC's for People
• Transfer $1,500,000 from unorganized township road and bridge accounts to the County Road and Bridge fund for road maintenance
• Appoint Interim County Attorney Jacob Fauchald to the Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment and the Risk Management Commission for terms ending Dec 31 2026
• Discuss appointment of Veterans Service Officer, Janet Borth

The Itasca County Board approved the appointment of John Prepodnik as Veterans Service Officer, including his fringe benefits and the adoption of Resolution 2024-36. The board also approved a $10,000 American Rescue Plan request from the Minnesota Masonic Children's Clinic and approved updates to the county's data practices manual. Several other items were recommended for the consent agenda for the next regular session.

• Appointed John Prepodnik as Veterans Service Officer, effective July 29, 2024 (4-0)
• Approved $10,000 ARP request for Minnesota Masonic Children's Clinic (4-0)
• Approved updates to MN Government Data Practices Manual (4-0)
• Approved amending ARP payee from CEDA to North Star Marketing & Services (4-0)
• Approved agenda as amended to add ARP items (4-0)
• Approved minutes of July 23, 2024 regular session (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider a consent agenda of routine actions, including a liquor license, a $50,060 child welfare grant, and a $900,000 public‑health opioid response application. It will also approve final payment for a pavement markings contract and adopt a property conveyance agreement. The regular agenda includes scheduling a public hearing on a short‑term rental ordinance and discussing a SMART off‑road data project.

• Approve a One Day Liquor License for North Central Minnesota Farm and Antique Association at Blackberry Farm, 25313 US Hwy 2, Grand Rapids, MN
• Accept CY 2025 Child Welfare / Juvenile Justice Screening Grant of $50,060
• Authorize Itasca County Public Health to apply for up to $900,000 for opioid epidemic response services
• Approve final payment for Contract 2024-02, SAP 031-030-003 for the 2024 Pavement Markings project
• Schedule public hearing for adoption of a Short-Term Rental Ordinance

The Itasca County Board approved the conveyance of a 12.5-acre airport parcel to the Grand Rapids Economic Development Authority (GREDA) for $146,000, creating a 35-acre industrial site. The board also approved a new road deputy position, participation in a tax forfeiture settlement, and scheduled a public hearing on a short-term rental ordinance.

• Approved $146,000 sale of airport land to GREDA (5-0)
• Approved creation of one Grade 10 Road Deputy position (5-0)
• Approved participation in MN Property Tax Forfeiture Class Action Settlement (5-0)
• Scheduled Aug 14 public hearing on short-term rental ordinance (5-0)
• Approved $2,011,101.65 in commissioner warrants (5-0)
• Approved $1,524,516.97 in ICHHS warrants (5-0)
• Approved submission of SMART Off-Road Data Gathering grant application (5-0)
• Authorized offer of employment to John Prepodnik as Veterans Service Officer (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board holds a work session to review and discuss items that may come before them for official action at a future regular meeting. The board will consider approving final payments for a 2024 pavement markings project, a forest stewardship agreement with the Chippewa National Forest, and a property conveyance to the Grand Rapids Economic Development Authority.

• Approve final payment for Contract 2024-02, SAP 031-030-003 for the 2024 Pavement Markings project ($ undisclosed)
• Approve Forest Service Stewardship Agreement 24-SA-11090300-024 with Chippewa National Forest Service
• Adopt resolution approving conveyance of county and city property to Grand Rapids Economic Development Authority (GREDA)
• Authorize creation of one Grade 10 Road Deputy position under LELS 493 Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Public hearing for Conditional Use Permit for Tom Hammerlund and Greg Stoltz

The Board authorized the sale of tax-forfeited lands to adjoining owners via sealed bids and approved a conditional use permit for commercial storage buildings. Several items, including a new Road Deputy position and a Forest Service agreement, were recommended for future action.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Tom Hammerlund/SEH commercial storage buildings (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-34 for tax-forfeited land sale to adjoining owners (5-0)
• Scheduled County Board Workshop Meeting for August 23, 2024 (5-0)
• Recommended approval of $274,762.85 final payment for 2024 Pavement Markings project
• Recommended approval of Forest Service Stewardship Agreement 24-SA-11090300-024
• Recommended approval of property conveyance to Grand Rapids Economic Development Authority
• Recommended approval of MOU between Cass and Itasca County Sheriff's Offices
• Recommended creation of one Grade 10 Road Deputy position

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Planning Commission is reviewing two conditional use permit applications for Unorganized Township 146-27. One application involves seasonal ice fishing access, while the other concerns commercial storage buildings.

• Conditional Use Permit for Home Occupation II (seasonal ice fishing access) in Unorganized Township 146-27
• Conditional Use Permit for commercial storage buildings in Unorganized Township 146-27
• Approval of June 12, 2024 meeting minutes

The commission denied a conditional use permit for a seasonal ice fishing access due to wetland violations. It also recommended the County Board approve a project for 30 commercial storage buildings subject to specific conditions.

• Approved minutes of the 6/12/2024 hearing (unanimous)
• Denied CUP for seasonal ice fishing access by Michael Schuster and Lonnie Witkofsky (unanimous)
• Recommended approval to County Board for Tom Hammerlund/SEH commercial storage buildings (unanimous)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will consider grant applications for the Squaw Lake trail bridge and a fishing pier agreement. The agenda also includes an American Rescue Plan request from Splithand Township.

• Squaw Lake Multi-use Recreational Trail Bridge IRRR Regional Trails Grant Application
• 2024 event lease agreement with Northern Minnesota Swap Meet and Car Show
• 2024 Bass Lake Fishing Pier Coop Agreement with the State of Minnesota
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) Request for Splithand Township
• Out-of-state travel authorization for EMDR training in West Palm Beach, FL

The Board approved over $1.2 million in commissioner warrants and a $75,000 American Rescue Plan request for Splithand Township. Other actions included approving a fishing pier agreement with the State of Minnesota and a lease for the Northern Minnesota Swap Meet and Car Show.

• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $1,235,901.13 (5-0)
• Approved $75,000 ARP request for Splithand Township road, fire, and park maintenance (5-0)
• Approved 2024 Bass Lake Fishing Pier Coop Agreement with the State of Minnesota (5-0)
• Approved 2024 event lease for Northern Minnesota Swap Meet and Car Show (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-33 for Squaw Lake Multi-use Recreational Trail Bridge grant application (5-0)
• Approved transition to a weekly warrant cycle (5-0)
• Appointed Commissioner Casey Venema and Commissioner Burl Ives to a Finance Committee (5-0)
• Approved out-of-state travel for Ashley Mohler and Chelsea Rabey (5-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority will review minutes from the June 11, 2024 meeting. The agenda also includes an informational discussion about the Mesabi Bike Trail.

• Approval of June 11, 2024 meeting minutes
• Discussion regarding the Mesabi Bike Trail

The board approved the agenda and the minutes from the June 11, 2024 meeting. No substantive actions were taken during the session.

• Approved the agenda (5-0)
• Approved June 11, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss American Rescue Plan requests from Wildwood and Blackberry Townships. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding a declaration of a state of emergency. Several grant applications and lease agreements are recommended for adoption via the consent agenda.

• Squaw Lake Multi-use Recreational Trail Bridge IRRR Grant Application
• Northern Minnesota Swap Meet and Car Show 2024 event lease agreement
• Bass Lake Fishing Pier Coop Agreement with the State of Minnesota
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) requests for Wildwood and Blackberry Townships
• Declaration of a State of Emergency

The Board declared a state of emergency following June 16 storms that caused road washouts and culvert damage. The Board also approved two $75,000 American Rescue Plan grants for Wildwood and Blackberry Townships.

• Declared a State of Emergency for June 16, 2024 storm events (5-0)
• Approved $75,000 ARP request for Wildwood Township projects (5-0)
• Approved $75,000 ARP request for Blackberry Township road and park projects (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: Squaw Lake Multi-use Recreational Trail Bridge grant application
• Recommended for consent: 2024 Northern Minnesota Swap Meet and Car Show lease
• Recommended for consent: 2024 Bass Lake Fishing Pier Coop Agreement
• Recommended for consent: Out-of-state EMDR training travel for Ashley Mohler

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will conduct a public hearing regarding a rezoning application. The agenda also includes presentations on the Northland Reliability Project and IMCare compliance updates. Additionally, the board will consider several service agreements and the appointment of election judges.

• Public hearing for a rezoning application submitted by Jeff Peterson
• Presentation on the Northland Reliability Project by Minnesota Power/Great River Energy
• Approval of a utility license for an underground telecommunication line on tax-forfeited trust lands
• Review of the Transfer Station Operations Contract
• Appointment of election judges for the August and November 2024 elections

The Itasca County Board voted 4-0 to deny Jeff Peterson's application to rezone three parcels from Rural Residential to Recreational Commercial, which he sought to re-establish a resort. The board also approved a five-year transfer station operations contract with General Waste & Recycling LLC at $69,750 per month, a $15,000 ARP grant to Goodland Township for a fire truck, and a Joint Powers Agreement with the Minnesota DNR for cooperative wildlife projects. Commissioner Burl Ives was absent for all votes.

• Denied rezone application by Jeff Peterson for parcels 19-017-1307, 19-017-1308, 19-017-4203 from Rural Residential to Recreational Commercial (4-0)
• Approved new Transfer Station Operations Contract with General Waste & Recycling LLC; monthly fee $69,750 (4-0)
• Approved $15,000 ARP request from Goodland Township for a fire truck for the Goodland Volunteer Fire Department (4-0)
• Approved Joint Powers Agreement with MN DNR Wildlife Division for cooperative wildlife projects, contingent on County Attorney review (4-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $3,130,367.59 with check date June 28, 2024 (4-0)
• Approved ICHHS Warrants for June 2024 totaling $1,157,256.56 (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda: election judges, Absolute Guardian Care guardianship agreement, 2024/2025 Housing Support Agreements, donation of 40-50 analog monitors to PC's for People, and Arvig utility license on tax-forfeited land (4-0)
• Approved agenda and minutes of June 18, 2024 work session (4-0)

County Board

This work session includes public hearings for an off-sale liquor license and a rezoning application. The board will also review an American Rescue Plan request for Mn-Fish and discuss filling the County Attorney vacancy.

• Public hearing for Blackberry Junction LLC off sale liquor license
• Public hearing for Jeff Peterson rezone application
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) request for Mn-Fish
• Appointment to fill County Attorney vacancy
• Joint Powers Agreement with DNR Wildlife Division

The Board declared a vacancy in the elected County Attorney position and subsequently appointed Jacob Fauchald to fill the role. The appointment is effective June 25, 2024, at an annual salary of $140,000. Additionally, the Board approved an off-sale liquor license for Blackberry Junction LLC and authorized a $15,000 American Rescue Plan grant for Mn-Fish.

• Declared vacancy in elected County Attorney position (5-0)
• Appointed Jacob Fauchald as County Attorney at $140,000 salary (5-0)
• Approved $15,000 ARP grant for Mn-Fish (5-0)
• Approved off-sale liquor license for Blackberry Junction LLC (5-0)
• Tabled rezone application for Jeff Peterson to June 25 (5-0)
• Continued discussion on Nashwauk Ambulance Service district (5-0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission will consider rezoning in Harris Township and permits for an educational facility and ice fishing access. The Board of Adjustment will review a variance request regarding building setbacks near Turtle Lake.

• Rezoning from Rural Residential to Recreational Commercial in Harris Township
• Conditional Use Permit for an educational facility (30-50 students)
• One-year extension for the Cedar Wild minor subdivision
• Variance for a dwelling/porch setback near Turtle Lake
• Conditional Use Permit for seasonal ice fishing access

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment met on 6/12/2024 with four members present and one absent. The board approved a one-year extension for the Cedar Wild minor subdivision, approved a conditional use permit for LAKE Academy to establish an educational facility for 30-50 students, tabled a seasonal ice fishing access CUP at the applicants' request, and approved a shoreline variance for a dwelling on Turtle Lake. A motion to recommend approval of Jeff Peterson's rezone from Rural Residential to Recreational Commercial failed on a 2:2 vote, so no recommendation will go to the County Board, which has a hearing scheduled for 6/18/2024.

• Approved one-year extension for Cedar Wild minor subdivision (Kutschat) (unanimous)
• Approved CUP for LAKE Academy educational facility, 30-50 students ages 5-18, with screening and BMP conditions (unanimous)
• Tabled Schuster/Witkofsky CUP for seasonal ice fishing access at applicants' request (unanimous)
• Approved variance for Aaron Hansen 22'x38' dwelling/6'x14' porch 75' from Turtle Lake OHWL (unanimous)
• Denied motion to recommend Peterson rezone from Rural Residential to Recreational Commercial (2:2 vote; Ayes: Kortekaas, Bellomy; Nayes: Butterfield, Maasch)
• Approved 4/10/2024 meeting minutes as distributed (unanimous)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority will hold a discussion regarding the Mesabi Trail. The agenda also includes the approval of minutes from the May 14, 2024, meeting.

• Mesabi Trail discussion
• Approval of May 14, 2024 meeting minutes

The Regional Railroad Authority met on June 11, 2024, to approve the meeting agenda and the minutes from the May 14, 2024, meeting. The board also received an informational presentation regarding maintenance needs for the Mesabi Trail. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved June 11 meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved May 14 meeting minutes (4-0)

County Board

The Board will consider American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding requests from the Taconite Fire Department and several townships. The agenda also includes a service contract with Commercial Asphalt Repair, Inc. and an interim County Attorney appointment.

• American Rescue Plan (ARP) requests for various townships
• Service contract with Commercial Asphalt Repair, Inc.
• Appointment of an Interim County Attorney
• CEDA update

The Itasca County Board approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $2,358,617.55 and five American Rescue Plan (ARP) requests for local projects. They also approved a $42,780 asphalt repair contract for the Itasca County Fairgrounds. The board tabled the appointment of an interim County Attorney and held a closed session for labor negotiations.

• Approved Commissioner Warrants of $2,358,617.55 (4-0)
• Approved $42,780 asphalt repair contract for Itasca County Fairgrounds (4-0)
• Approved $125,000 ARP request for Taconite Fire Department pumper truck (4-0)
• Approved $10,000 ARP request for Carpenter Township firehall siding (4-0)
• Approved $20,000 ARP request for Greenway Township Twin Lakes Beach improvements (4-0)
• Approved $5,100 ARP request for Morse Township town hall painting (4-0)
• Approved $9,036 ARP request for Good Hope Township town hall roofing (4-0)
• Tabled appointment of interim County Attorney

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss several county matters. Topics include the Schindler Maintenance Contract and the 2022-2024 Teamsters Local 320 labor contract for supervisors. The board will also receive an update on highway construction projects.

• Schindler Maintenance Contract discussion
• 2022-2024 Teamsters Local 320 (Supervisors) labor contract review
• June 2024 Highway Construction Project Update
• Closed session regarding County Administrator annual performance review

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners approved a three-year labor contract for the supervisory unit and a 10-year elevator maintenance agreement for the Government Center. The board also received updates on highway construction projects and from a County Attorney candidate. No other substantive actions were taken during the session.

• Approved 10-year elevator maintenance contract with Schindler (4-0)
• Adopted 2022-2024 labor contract for Teamsters Local 320 supervisors (4-0)
• Approved June 4, 2024 board agenda as amended (4-0)
• Approved May 28, 2024 board meeting minutes (4-0)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will consider several liquor and tobacco license applications and hold public hearings. The meeting includes reviews of American Rescue Plan (ARP) requests from Goodland, Balsam, and Lone Pine Townships.

• Public hearing for Off Sale Liquor License for Cut Foot Sioux Resort LLC
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) requests from Goodland Township, Township of Balsam, and Lone Pine Township
• Liquor and gambling permit applications for Blackberry Junction at 25306 Dove Lane
• Bridge Bonding Agreement for CSAH 61 Bridge Replacement
• Interim County Attorney appointment

The Itasca County Board approved $2,424,384.60 in Commissioner Warrants and $1,325,536.56 in Health and Human Services warrants. The board also approved several liquor licenses, including an off-sale license for Cut Foot Sioux Resort LLC, and authorized $44,728.36 in bridge bonding funds for the CSAH 61 replacement. Additionally, the board voted 4-1 to proceed with negotiations for an interim County Attorney appointment with candidate J. Austad.

• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $2,424,384.60 (5-0)
• Approved ICHHS Department Warrants totaling $1,325,536.56 (5-0)
• Approved Off Sale Liquor License for Cut Foot Sioux Resort LLC (5-0)
• Approved gambling and on-sale liquor licenses for Blackberry Junction LLC (5-0)
• Adopted resolution for CSAH 61 Bridge Replacement funding of $44,728.36 (5-0)
• Approved four American Rescue Plan requests totaling $115,000 for township projects (5-0 each)
• Approved changes to Park and Recreation Commission Constitution (5-0)
• Approved proceeding to negotiations with interim County Attorney candidate J. Austad (4-1)

County Board

The County Board is conducting a work session to review topics for future official action. Discussion items include watershed management plans, a township agreement, and American Rescue Plan requests.

• Resolution to support Big Fork River Watershed Management Plan (1W1P)
• Resolution to support Little Fork River Watershed Management Plan (1W1P)
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) requests from Post 476 & Post 301 American Legion
• Utility easement for underground electric line in Section 34, Township 56, Range 25
• Public Health application for Youth Suicide Prevention Learning Collaborative Grant

The Board approved a $10,000 American Rescue Plan grant for ADA accessibility at American Legion Posts 476 and 301. Other actions included updating dust control procedures and approving a labor agreement for a Transportation Department employee. Several items were recommended for the next consent agenda.

• Approved $10,000 ARP request for ADA accessibility chair lift at American Legion Posts 476 & 301 (4-0)
• Approved revised Dust Control Application and Procedures Form and removed it from County Policy Book (4-0)
• Approved updated letter of support for General Waste Keewatin Landfill Certificate of Need request (4-0)
• Approved Letter of Understanding with AFSCME, Local 1452 regarding temporary employee pay grade (4-0)
• Recommended for consent: Public Health application for Youth Suicide Prevention Learning Collaborative Grant
• Recommended for consent: Out-of-state travel for Travis Schultz to Honeywell Users Group Training
• Recommended for consent: Utility easement for underground electric line in Section 34, Township 56, Range 25
• Recommended for consent: Agreement with Goodland Township for bituminous project

Regional Railroad Authority

The authority will meet to approve minutes from the January 9, 2024 meeting. The session includes a discussion regarding the Mesabi Trail featuring Sara Thompson and Kory Cease.

• Discussion on Mesabi Trail with Sara Thompson and Kory Cease
• Approval of January 9, 2024 meeting minutes

The board approved the agenda and the minutes from the January 9, 2024 meeting. Members received an informational presentation on the history, funding, and maintenance priorities of the Mesabi Trail, but took no formal action on the matter.

• Approved the agenda (5-0)
• Approved January 9, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to vote on several infrastructure contracts, grant agreements, and hosting services. The session includes discussions on American Rescue Plan requests and a bridge replacement project.

• Contract 68404 for CSAH 84 Gary Street and City of Calumet utility improvements to Casper Construction Co for $1,259,889.00
• Environmental Trust Fund Grant of $5,000.00 to Grand Rapids High School Future Farmers of America (FFA)
• Final payment for Contract 60318 regarding CSAH 3 / 7th Avenue Bituminous Paving and Roundabout
• Award of Contract 66112 for CSAH 61 Bridge Replacement
• Hosting agreements with Minnesota Counties Information Systems (MCIS)

The Itasca County Board approved multiple infrastructure contracts, including a $2,054,140.29 bridge replacement on CSAH 61 and $1,259,889.00 in utility improvements on CSAH 84. The board also approved a $3,646,291.52 warrant batch, a lease for the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and an amendment reducing an ARP grant to Lake Jessie Township from $25,214 to $20,000. Additionally, the board approved a letter of support for the transfer of Meds-1 Ambulance to North Memorial Ambulance.

• Awarded Contract 66112 (CSAH 61 Bridge Replacement) to S & R Reinforcing, Inc. for $2,054,140.29 (5-0)
• Awarded Contract 68404 (CSAH 84/Gary Street & Calumet Utilities) to Casper Construction Co. for $1,259,889.00 (5-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $3,646,291.52 (5-0)
• Approved Lease between Itasca County and State Dept. of Administration for BCA office space (5-0)
• Amended ARP request for Lake Jessie Township, reducing amount from $25,214 to $20,000 (5-0)
• Approved ARP request up to $25,000 from CEDA/Itasca County for small business marketing (5-0)
• Approved Letter of Support for transfer of Meds-1 Ambulance to North Memorial Ambulance (5-0)
• Approved 2024/2025 Annual Road Maintenance Agreements with townships and cities (5-0)

County Board

The County Board is holding a work session to review several infrastructure contracts, grant agreements, and hosting services. The board will discuss airport grants, liquor license hearings, and American Rescue Plan requests for trail projects.

• Contract 68404 for CSAH 84 Gary Street and City of Calumet utility improvements to Casper Construction Co for $1,259,889.00
• 2024 Environmental Trust Fund Grant of $5,000.00 to Grand Rapids High School FFA
• Service Contract with American Disposal for demolition at the Itasca County Transfer Station
• Hosting Agreements with Minnesota Counties Information Systems (MCIS) for hardware and services
• American Rescue Plan requests for S. Lake Multi-use Recreational Trail Bridge and Nashwauk Multi-use Trailhead projects

The County Board awarded a $3.3M bituminous paving contract to Hawkinson Construction and approved $130,000 in American Rescue Plan funds for trail projects. The Board also approved several airport grant agreements and a lease for the Grand Rapids Speedway.

• Awarded Contract 63512 for bituminous paving to Hawkinson Construction for $3,303,376.66 (5-0)
• Approved $75,000 ARP request for S. Lake Multi-use Recreational Trail Bridge Project (5-0)
• Approved $55,000 ARP request for Nashwauk Multi-use Trailhead Project (5-0)
• Approved two MnDOT grant agreements for Bowstring Airport improvements (5-0)
• Approved 2024 Lease Agreement with Grand Rapids Speedway, Inc. (5-0)
• Approved $1,259,889.00 contract for CSAH 84 improvements to Casper Construction Co (recommended for consent)
• Scheduled public hearings for May 28 regarding an off-sale liquor license and Park & Recreation Commission Constitution amendments (5-0)
• Adopted resolutions recognizing National Police Week and National Correctional Officers Week (5-0)

County Board

The County Board will review several American Rescue Plan (ARP) requests from local organizations and townships. The agenda also includes a consent agenda covering program agreements, software agreements, and equipment disposition.

• $25,000 Program Agreement with University of Minnesota for Minnesota Woodland Steward Program
• Disposition of obsolete road and bridge equipment via auction
• Notice of timber sale scheduled for June 5, 2024, at Cohasset Community Center
• Six American Rescue Plan (ARP) requests from various community organizations and townships
• Memorandum of Agreement with Itasca County Attorney Employees Association

At its April 23, 2024 regular session, the Itasca County Board approved seven American Rescue Plan (ARP) requests totaling $303,902.43, including $90,000 for First Call for Help (reduced from a $100,000 request) and $80,855 for the Bigfork Volunteer Fire Department. The board also approved routine items including $1,577,664.74 in Commissioner Warrants, $1,672,509.59 in Health and Human Services warrants, a $25,000 University of Minnesota Woodland Steward program agreement, and a Joint Powers Agreement with the DNR for road maintenance. A Memorandum of Agreement with the Itasca County Attorney Employees Association was presented but no action was taken. All recorded votes were 5-0, except the employee expense report approval, which passed 4-0 with Commissioner Terry Snyder abstaining.

• Approved ARP request of $56,108.43 for Bigfork Valley Community Foundation (5-0)
• Approved ARP request of $90,000 for First Call for Help of Itasca County, reduced from $100,000 requested (5-0)
• Approved ARP request of $6,000 for Itasca Waters (5-0)
• Approved ARP request of $25,214 for Lake Jessie Township (5-0)
• Approved ARP request of $17,500 for Itasca County Agricultural Association (5-0)
• Approved ARP request of $80,855 for Bigfork Volunteer Fire Department (5-0)
• Approved ARP request of $27,225 for Trout Lake Fire Department (5-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants of $1,577,664.74, check date April 26, 2024 (5-0)

County Board

The County Board is holding a work session to discuss several administrative agreements and a zoning ordinance text amendment. The body will review contracts for waste management, software, and environmental programs.

• Public hearing regarding Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment submitted by Karl Larsen/Lake Academy
• Proposed $25,000 agreement with University of Minnesota for Minnesota Woodland Steward Program
• Proposal from Dem-Con Companies Inc. for Operation of the Itasca County Transfer Station
• Software agreement with Next Chapter Technology Inc for Health & Human Services CaseWorks
• Resolution for the repurchase of Lot 1, Block 1, Village of Taconite First Addition

The Board approved a recommendation to contract Dem-Con Companies Inc. for the operation of the Itasca County Transfer Station and materials hauling for five years. Other actions included updating zoning for educational facilities and approving land classifications.

• Approved Dem-Con Companies Inc. for transfer station operations and hauling (3-0)
• Adopted zoning text amendment for educational facilities in Shoreland Overlay District (3-0)
• Approved recommended classifications for tax-forfeited land
• Approved repurchase of Lot 1, Block 1, Village of Taconite First Addition by Shari Swanson
• Authorized timber oral bid auction for June 5, 2024
• Approved Deer Lake Association lease renewal #328 for AIS station
• Approved disposition of obsolete road and bridge equipment via auction
• Assigned Commissioner Casey Venema as Chair of County Attorney Appointment Committee (3-0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will consider two variance requests regarding setbacks from water levels and property lines. The Planning Commission will review a rezoning request in Arbo Township and a text amendment concerning educational facilities in the Shoreland Overlay District.

• Variance for 20’x30’ dwelling setback near County Road 19 and Moose Lake (Zachary & Kairiss Kruse)
• Variance for septic system setback from North Twin Lake (Zims Enterprises LLC)
• Rezoning from Industrial to Farm Residential in Arbo Township (Anthony Renollet)
• Text amendment for educational facilities within the Shoreland Overlay District (Karl Larsen/Lake Academy)

County Board

The County Board is meeting to discuss the adoption of a Local Housing Trust Fund Ordinance and review American Rescue Plan requests from several townships and the city of Grand Rapids. The board will also vote on various infrastructure contracts and fuel bids.

• Adoption of a Local Housing Trust Fund Ordinance
• Pavement markings contract awarded to Sir Lines-A-Lot, LLC for $275,938.08
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) requests from Visit Grand Rapids, City of Calumet, Lawrence Lake Township, Spang Township, and Harris Township
• Fuel bids for Propane, Diesel, and Gasoline awarded to Edwards Oil Inc., Davis Oil Inc., and Petroleum Traders Corporation
• 2024 Set-Up Liquor Licenses for Deer Lake Charlie's LLC, Dixon Lake Resort LLC, and Wilderness Wedding Barn

The Itasca County Board approved the creation of a local Housing Trust Fund and authorized $825,776.72 in commissioner warrants. The board also approved eight American Rescue Plan requests totaling $416,000 for various townships and cities, and finalized payments for two road construction contracts. A joint powers agreement for leasing iron-bearing materials was adopted, while a Heartland Behavioral Health contract was pulled from the agenda.

• Adopted Itasca County Housing Trust Fund Ordinance (5-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $825,776.72 (5-0)
• Approved ARP requests totaling $416,000 for 8 entities (5-0)
• Approved Joint Powers Leasing Agreement for Iron-Bearing Materials (5-0)
• Approved final payment for Contract 60413 ($3,184,916.52) (5-0)
• Approved final payment for Contract 202303 ($623,275.24) (5-0)
• Awarded 2024 Pavement Markings contract to Sir Lines-A-Lot, LLC ($275,938.08) (5-0)
• Heartland Behavioral Health contract pulled from agenda

County Board

The County Board is conducting a work session to discuss several ordinances and review American Rescue Plan requests from four cities. The board is also awarding bids for fuel and pavement markings.

• Public hearing on the adoption of a Short-Term Rental Ordinance
• Public hearing on the adoption of a Local Housing Trust Fund Ordinance
• Pavement markings contract awarded to Sir Lines-A-Lot, LLC for $275,938.08
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) requests from the cities of Bovey, Effie, Keewatin, and Marble
• Fuel bids for propane, diesel, and gasoline awarded to Edwards Oil Inc., Davis Oil Inc., and Petroleum Traders Corporation

The Board approved several American Rescue Plan requests for infrastructure and facility projects in Bovey, Effie, Keewatin, and Marble. Public hearings were held regarding short-term rental and housing trust fund ordinances, though no action was taken on those items. The Board also approved the IMCare Quality Program Document and a resolution for National County Government Month.

• Approved $50,000 ARP request for City of Bovey storm sewer (5-0)
• Approved $60,000 ARP request for City of Effie site redevelopment (5-0)
• Approved $75,000 ARP request for City of Keewatin fire hall roof (5-0)
• Approved $25,000 ARP request for City of Marble water upgrades (5-0)
• Approved IMCare Quality Program Document (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-18 for National County Government Month (5-0)
• Approved March 26, 2024 Regular Session minutes (5-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will consider several lease agreements and liquor licenses. The meeting includes discussions on American Rescue Plan requests for the Marcell Family Center and Bass Lake Campground, as well as the adoption of a five-year highway improvement plan.

• 2024 Five Year Plan for Highway Improvement Projects
• American Rescue Plan requests for Marcell Family Center and Bass Lake Campground
• Lease agreements for Itasca Medical Care, Northeast Minnesota Office of Job Training, and Itasca County Health & Human Services
• Liquor licenses for Cut Foot Sioux Resort and Northstar Lake Resort
• Popple River Multi-Use Recreational Trail Bridge grant application

The Board adopted the Five-Year Plan for Highway Improvement Projects and approved several lease agreements for the Itasca Resource Center. Other actions included authorizing funding for park improvements and approving a land transfer for the L&M Supply project.

• Adopted Five-Year Plan for Highway Improvement Projects (5-0)
• Approved $65,000 ARP request for Bass Lake Campground Public Facility Improvement Project (5-0)
• Approved $17,850 ARP request for Marcell Family Center (4-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved $29,950 design contract with MSA Professional Services for Bass Lake dump station (5-0)
• Approved lease agreements for Itasca Medical Care, NE MN Office of Job Training, and ICHHS (5-0)
• Approved transfer of airport property to City of Grand Rapids for L&M Supply project (5-0)
• Authorized one-year extension on all 2024 expiring timber permits (5-0)
• Approved $1,010,409.15 in Commissioner Warrants and $1,472,539.37 in ICHHS Warrants (5-0)

County Board

The County Board is meeting for a work session to review topics for future official action. The agenda includes discussions on several leases and a grant request from Wirt Township.

• Repurchase of Lots 20 and 21, Second Addition to Swan Lake
• Popple River Multi-Use Recreational Trail Bridge grant application
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) request from Wirt Township
• Leases involving Itasca Medical Care, Northeast Minnesota Office of Job Training, and Itasca County Health & Human Services
• One-year extension for all Itasca County timber permits expiring in 2024

The Itasca County Board held a work session on March 19, 2024, with all five commissioners present. The board approved a $40,000 American Rescue Plan request from Wirt Township, a letter of support for a waste facility certificate of need, a reallocation of a Records Deputy I position to a Road Deputy, and a donation of a laptop to Bowstring Airport. Several items were recommended for the consent agenda on March 26, including timber permit extensions, a trail bridge grant application, and three lease agreements. The board also received informational updates and referred a tax-forfeited parcel repurchase to the Land Classification Committee.

• Approved $40,000 ARP request from Wirt Township (5-0)
• Approved letter of support for General Waste and Recycling Certificate of Need (5-0)
• Approved reallocation of one Records Deputy I to one Road Deputy (5-0)
• Approved donation of end-of-life laptop to Bowstring Airport (5-0)
• Recommended for consent: one-year extension on 2024 expiring timber permits
• Recommended for consent: Popple River trail bridge grant application resolution
• Recommended for consent: lease with Itasca Medical Care at updated rates
• Recommended for consent: leases with Northeast MN Office of Job Training and Itasca County Health & Human Services

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission is considering an amendment to extend a temporary contractor yard permit. The Board of Adjustment is reviewing two variance requests for buildings that do not meet required setbacks from roads or water levels.

• Conditional Use Permit #220810 extension for Hawkinson Construction/Precision Pipeline in Harris Township until 12/31/2025
• Variance request for a 26’x40’ garage near Sand Lake and County Road 155 (Brian Oswald and Patty Tholen-Oswald)
• Variance request for a 20’x30’ dwelling near County Road 19 in Moose Lake (Zachary & Kairiss Kruse)

The commission extended a conditional use permit for a construction storage yard and approved a variance for a garage near Sand Lake. A variance application for a dwelling on County Road 19 was tabled.

• Approved extension of CUP #220810 for Precision Pipeline/Hawkinson Construction storage yard to 12/31/2025 (unanimous)
• Approved amended variance for Brian Oswald & Patty Tholen-Oswald to build a 26’x40’ garage (unanimous)
• Tabled variance application for Zachary & Kairiss Kruse for a 20’x30’ dwelling until April meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the 2/14/2024 hearing (unanimous)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will consider several administrative approvals, including a grant for airport equipment and a road agreement with the City of Calumet. The meeting also includes requests for American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding for Bowstring Airport and the Sheriff's Office.

• Grant Agreement #1056368 for a new mower at Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport for $65,175.60
• Cooperative Construction Agreement with the City of Calumet for CSAH 84 road and utility improvements
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) requests for Bowstring Airport and Itasca County Sheriff's Office/1000 Lakes SWAT
• Appointment of Pat Schwartz to the Housing & Redevelopment Authority (HRA)
• Earthen materials lease in Township 60 North, Range 24 West to TNT Construction Group, LLC

The Itasca County Board approved multiple American Rescue Plan funding requests, including $150,000 for the Roots & Wings Early Learning Center and $100,000 for Sheriff's Office SWAT equipment. The board also authorized a cooperative construction agreement with the City of Calumet for road and utility improvements on CSAH 84. A motion to exempt all 2024 highway projects from Project Labor Agreements failed, but specific projects were individually approved for exemption or requirement.

• Approved $150,000 ARP grant for Roots & Wings Early Learning Center (5-0)
• Approved $100,000 ARP grant for Sheriff's Office/1000 Lakes SWAT (5-0)
• Approved $69,697.56 ARP grant for Bigfork Ambulance Service (5-0)
• Approved $17,865.28 ARP grant for Marcell Township playground equipment (5-0)
• Approved $15,120 ARP grant for Bowstring Airport maintenance (5-0)
• Approved Cooperative Construction Agreement with City of Calumet for CSAH 84 improvements (5-0)
• Approved $1,038,288.10 in Commissioner Warrants (5-0)
• Failed motion to exempt all 2024 highway projects from Project Labor Agreements (2-3)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will vote on several infrastructure contracts and grant applications. The meeting includes discussions on American Rescue Plan funding for the Wabana Recreation Complex and updates on watershed funding.

• Contract for CSAH 52 Grading, Aggregate Base, & Bituminous Surfacing to TNT Construction Group, LLC for $2,698,800.00
• Grant request to MnDOT Aeronautics for Bowstring Municipal Airport snow removal equipment for $144,876.45
• 2024 Site Preparation Contract to Future Forests Inc. for $62,467.00
• 2024 Tree Planting Contract to Great Lakes Forestry, LLC for $26,560.75
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) request for the Wabana Recreation Complex Project

The Itasca County Board approved a $2,698,800.00 contract with TNT Construction Group, LLC for CSAH 52 grading, aggregate base, and bituminous surfacing, the largest single item on a 12-item consent agenda. The board also approved $50,000 in American Rescue Plan funds for the Wabana Recreation Complex Project and $15,000 for the Itasca Ski and Outing Club, rescheduled a short-term rental ordinance public hearing to April 2, 2024, and approved a 2022-23 amended and 2024-25 Upper Mississippi Headwaters watershed workplan and budget on a 3-1 vote. Commissioner Cory Smith was absent; most votes were 4-0.

• Approved consent agenda including $2,698,800.00 CSAH 52 contract to TNT Construction Group, LLC (4-0)
• Approved $144,876.45 MnDOT Aeronautics snow removal equipment grant request for Bowstring Municipal Airport, with $14,487.65 local match (4-0)
• Approved Cooperative Construction Agreement with City of Deer River for CSAH 81 (1st Avenue) improvements (4-0)
• Approved $50,000 ARP request for Wabana Recreation Complex Project (4-0)
• Approved $15,000 ARP request for Itasca Ski and Outing Club, Inc. (4-0)
• Rescheduled short-term rental ordinance public hearing to April 2, 2024 (4-0)
• Approved UMHW Watershed 2022-23 amended and 2024-25 workplan/budget (3-1, Burl Ives nay)
• Authorized Transportation Department to not require a PLA for CSAH 61 (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners is holding a work session to review several infrastructure contracts and grant applications. The board will discuss road improvements, airport equipment, and forestry services.

• Contract 65205 for CSAH 52 Grading, Aggregate Base, & Bituminous Surfacing to TNT Construction Group, LLC for $2,698,800.00
• Grant request to MnDOT Aeronautics for Bowstring Municipal Airport snow removal equipment for $144,876.45
• 2024 Site Preparation Contract to Future Forests Inc. for $62,467.00
• 2024 Tree Planting Contract to Great Lakes Forestry, LLC for $26,560.75
• Cooperative Construction Agreement with the City of Deer River for CSAH 81 (1st Avenue) road improvements

The Board recommended several contracts for consent, including a $2.69M road surfacing project and forestry contracts. It also approved multiple utility licenses for telecommunications lines and an exchange of commissioner appointments to policy committees.

• Recommended $2,698,800 contract to TNT Construction Group, LLC for CSAH 52 surfacing
• Recommended $144,876.45 grant request for Bowstring Municipal Airport snow removal equipment
• Recommended $26,560.75 tree planting contract to Great Lakes Forestry, LLC
• Recommended $62,467.00 site preparation contract to Future Forests Inc.
• Recommended Cooperative Construction Agreement with City of Deer River for CSAH 81
• Recommended 10 utility licenses for Paul Bunyan Telephone Cooperative
• Recommended grant applications for Nashwauk Trailhead, Bass Lake Park, and Popple River Bridge
• Approved appointment of Commissioner Burl Ives to HHS Policy Committee and Commissioner John Johnson to Public Safety Policy Committee (5-0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will meet to discuss a variance request for a garage construction project. The board will also receive a report from the Water Plan Implementation Committee.

• Variance request for a 26’x40’ garage on Lot 2, Section 3, Unorganized Township 147-26 (Brian Oswald and Patty Tholen-Oswald)
• Review of setbacks from Sand Lake Ordinary High Water Level and County Road 155
• Water Plan Implementation Committee (WPIC) Report

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved its agenda and the minutes of the 1/10/2024 hearing, both unanimously. The only substantive item, a variance request from Brian Oswald and Patty Tholen-Oswald for a 26'x40' garage on Sand Lake, was tabled until the March meeting at the applicants' request so they could consult a contractor. Members also heard a Water Plan Implementation Committee report and a request from Tom Nelson to consider televising PCBA meetings again. The meeting adjourned at 12:00 p.m.

• Approved the agenda as distributed (unanimous)
• Approved the 1/10/2024 hearing minutes as distributed (unanimous)
• Tabled the Oswald/Tholen-Oswald Sand Lake garage variance application until the March meeting (unanimous)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to review various grant agreements, contracts, and infrastructure plans. Key items include airport runway work and a five-year highway improvement presentation.

• Agreement #1055914 for $19,000 for Runway Obstruction Removals at Bowstring Airport
• Reduction of retainage to $35,471.96 for CSAH 7 Bituminous Paving project (Contract 60732)
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) request for Warba American Legion Campground
• Resolution regarding a Minnesota timberwolf hunting and trapping season
• Presentation of the 5 Year Plan for Highway Improvement Projects

The Itasca County Board approved $30,000 in American Rescue Plan funding for the Warba American Legion Campground, adopted a resolution supporting a Minnesota timberwolf hunting and trapping season, and approved a $19,000 MnDOT grant agreement for Bowstring Airport runway obstruction removal. The board also approved $1,512,333.46 in commissioner warrants, a $23,500 compensation market study contract with David Drown Associates (directing staff to request added benefit comparison services), and released a request for bids for demolition landfill operations. Several items were informational only, including the NE MN HOME Consortium guidelines and the Family and Child Services 2023 year-end report.

• Approved $30,000 in ARP funding for Warba American Legion Campground (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-7 favoring a Minnesota timberwolf hunting and trapping season (5-0)
• Approved $19,000 MnDOT grant agreement for Bowstring Airport runway obstruction removal (5-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $1,512,333.46 (5-0)
• Approved addendum to Canister Site Operation Contract increasing amount by $1,319/month (5-0)
• Approved release of RFB for Demolition Landfill and Yard Waste Area operations (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-8 supporting Itasca Driftskippers Snowmobile Club FRTP grant application (5-0)
• Directed staff to request benefit comparison services be added to DDA compensation study contract (consensus, no formal vote)

County Board

The County Board is holding a work session to review items for future official action. Discussion topics include staffing changes for the sheriff's office and a resolution regarding timberwolf hunting and trapping.

• Agreement #1055914 for $19,000 for Runway Obstruction Removals at Bowstring Airport
• Reduction of retainage to $35,471.96 for CSAH 7 Bituminous Paving project (Contract 60732)
• Appointment and employment agreement for Chief Deputy Sheriff
• Reallocation of Records Lieutenant to Records Deputy 2
• Scheduling of 2024 County Board of Appeal and Equalization meetings for June 17 and June 20

The County Board approved an employment and severance agreement for Chief Deputy Sheriff Christopher Peterson. The board also appointed election judges for the March 5th primary and reallocated a sheriff's office position. Several grant and project items were recommended for future consent or regular agendas.

• Approved employment and severance agreement for Chief Deputy Sheriff Christopher Peterson (4-0)
• Appointed 24 mail and absentee ballot election judges for the March 5th primary (4-0)
• Approved reallocation of one Records Lieutenant position to one Records Deputy II position (4-0)
• Approved January 23, 2024 regular session minutes (4-0)
• Approved amended agenda (4-0)
• Pulled resolution on timberwolf hunting and trapping season from agenda
• Pulled addendum to Canister Site Operation Contract from agenda

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will consider final payments for road construction and grant sponsorships for sidewalk and trail projects. The meeting also includes reviews of service contracts for economic development organizations.

• Final payment for Contract 66010 covering road projects on CSAH 7, CSAH 60, and Shamrock Drive
• Sponsorship of Safe Routes to School Grant for City of Cohasset 3rd Street sidewalk connection
• Sponsorship of Safe Routes to School Grant for City of Cohasset Forest History Center Trail connection
• Sponsorship of Greenway Snowmobile Club Federal Recreational Trail Program Grant
• Service contracts for Itasca Economic Development Corporation and Community and Economic Development Associates

The Itasca County Board approved service contracts with Itasca Economic Development Corporation ($80,000) and Community and Economic Development Associates ($104,003) for consultant services through December 31, 2024. The board also approved final payment for road construction Contract 66010 and sponsored two Safe Routes to School grant applications for the City of Cohasset. Commissioner warrants totaling $2,100,841.97 and Health and Human Services warrants of $1,196,837.70 were approved, with Commissioner Venema abstaining on the commissioner warrants and Commissioner Snyder abstaining on employee expense reimbursement.

• Approved final payment for Contract 66010 road projects on CSAH 7, CSAH 60, and Shamrock Drive (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-3 sponsoring Cohasset 3rd Street sidewalk Safe Routes to School grant (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-4 sponsoring Cohasset Forest History Center Trail Safe Routes to School grant (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-5 supporting Greenway Snowmobile Club Federal Recreational Trail Program grant application (5-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants of $2,100,841.97 (4-0, Venema abstained)
• Approved employee expense reimbursement for expenses over 60 days old (4-0, Snyder abstained)
• Approved ICHHS Warrants of $1,196,837.70 (5-0)
• Approved $80,000 IEDC contract and $104,003 CEDA contract for consultant services (5-0 each)

County Board

The County Board is conducting a work session to review items for future official action. The meeting includes discussions on a Local Housing Trust Fund Ordinance and a public hearing for a conditional use permit.

• Final payment for Contract 66010 regarding road projects on CSAH 7, CSAH 60, and Shamrock Drive
• Sponsorship of Safe Routes to School Grant applications for Cohasset 3rd Street and Forest History Center Trail
• Greenway Snowmobile Club Federal Recreational Trail Program Grant Application
• MOU between Itasca County and Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc (LELS) Local 493
• Public hearing for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for Jake & Amanda Perrington

The County Board approved a conditional use permit for Jake and Amanda Perrington to establish storage facilities. The board also approved a new American Rescue Plan request form and directed the County Administrator to research data request software.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Jake & Amanda Perrington storage facilities (5-0)
• Approved new American Rescue Plan (ARP) Request Form (5-0)
• Directed County Administrator to research Data Request software and policy amendments (5-0)
• Approved January 9, 2024 Regular Session minutes (5-0)
• Pulled MOU with Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc Local 493 from agenda
• Pulled Addendum to Canister Site Operation Contract from agenda
• Scheduled Public Hearing for Short Term Rental Ordinance for February 27, 2024

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will meet to consider conditional use permits and a variance request. The body will review proposals for storage rentals and a communications tower, as well as a garage setback variance.

• Conditional Use for storage rental units at Govt Lot 2, Section 18, Unorganized Township 146-26
• Conditional Use for a 310-foot telecommunications tower at NE NW, Section 15, Marcell Township 59-27
• Variance for a 24’x20’ garage setback from CSAH 43 at Lot 3, Section 26, Stokes Township 60-27
• Water Plan Implementation Committee (WPIC) Report

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved a variance for a 24'x24' garage on Turtle Lake Rd./CSAH 43, recommended approval of a conditional use permit for four storage rental unit buildings, and approved a CUP for a 310-foot telecommunications tower in Marcell Township. All motions carried unanimously. The storage unit CUP goes to the County Board for a public hearing on 1/16/2024. The board also elected 2024 officers.

• Approved amended variance for James & Nancy Jamieson to build a 24'x24' garage 81' from the centerline of Turtle Lake Rd./CSAH 43 (unanimous)
• Recommended approval to County Board of amended CUP for Jake & Amanda Perrington for four storage rental unit buildings (unanimous)
• Approved CUP for Vertical Bridge/Trueman/Carrigan for a 300' telecommunications tower with a 10' lightning rod (total 310') (unanimous)
• Elected Lisa Maasch as Chair, Mike Bellomy as Vice-Chair, Dan Butterfield to WPIC, and Mike Bellomy to Hwy. 38 (unanimous)
• Approved the agenda as modified and the minutes of the 12/13/2023 hearing (unanimous)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Regional Railroad Authority will meet to elect officers and approve minutes from the November 14, 2023 meeting. The agenda is primarily procedural.

• Election of officers
• Approval of November 14, 2023 meeting minutes

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority held its regular session on January 9, 2024, and elected Commissioner John Johnson as Chair and Commissioner Casey Venema as Vice-Chair for 2024, both by unanimous 5-0 ballots. The minutes also include an informational item on the Mesabi Trail, on which no action was taken. The document contains a second, unrelated set of draft minutes from November 14, 2023, which record approval of an amended agenda, approval of the October 10, 2023 minutes, adoption of the 2024 meeting schedule resolution, and an informational Mesabi Trail discussion with no action.

• Elected Commissioner John Johnson as Chair for 2024 (5-0)
• Elected Commissioner Casey Venema as Vice-Chair for 2024 (5-0)
• Mesabi Trail discussion: informational, no action taken
• Nov 14, 2023 draft minutes: approved amended agenda adding Mesabi Trail item (4-0, Snyder absent)
• Nov 14, 2023 draft minutes: approved October 10, 2023 minutes (4-0, Snyder absent)
• Nov 14, 2023 draft minutes: adopted resolution establishing 2024 regular meeting schedule and special meeting notice procedure (4-0, Snyder absent)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will review several service contracts and a $57,499 state grant for boating safety equipment. The agenda includes the proposed creation of a Probation Advisory Board and a request for proposals for solid waste services.

• Acceptance of $57,499.00 State of Minnesota Federal Boating Safety Supplemental Equipment Grant
• Proposed creation of a Probation Advisory Board
• Purchase of Service Agreement with Dr. Beth Prewett, The Woods Therapy and Counseling Services PLLC for juvenile sex offender treatment
• Contract with CliftonLarsonAllen LLP for an annual external financial audit for IMCare
• Request for Proposals (RFP) #SW-2024-2029

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners approved commissioner warrants totaling $4,338,536.80 and health and human services warrants totaling $2,135,205.43 during its regular session. The Board also accepted a $57,499 state boating safety grant, adopted a resolution creating a Probation Advisory Board, and approved an RFP for transfer station operations and materials hauling services.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved January 2, 2024 work session minutes (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including HHS document management amendment, IMCare audit contract, juvenile sex offender treatment agreement, boating safety grant, and out-of-state travel (5-0)
• Approved commissioner warrants of $4,338,536.80 (5-0)
• Approved ICHHS warrants of $2,135,205.43 (5-0)
• Approved Request for Proposals #SW-2024-2029 for Transfer Station Operations and Materials Hauling Services (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-2 creating the Probation Advisory Board and appointed Commissioners Johnson and Snyder (5-0)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will elect officers and discuss 2024 legislative priorities and a new sick leave policy. The session includes the review of several contracts and the appointment of members to committees and boards.

• Federal Boating Safety Supplemental Equipment Grant Agreement for $57,499.00
• Contract between IMCare and CliftonLarsonAllen LLP for an annual external financial audit
• Proposed new sick leave policy
• Reconsideration of 2024 elective official salaries for the County Attorney
• Addendum to Canister Site Operation Contract

The Board elected John Johnson as Chair and Casey Venema as Vice-Chair for 2024. The Board adopted a new sick leave policy to comply with state law and increased the elected County Attorney's salary to $160,000. Several committee appointments and 2024 legislative priorities were also approved.

• Elected John Johnson as Chair (5-0) and Casey Venema as Vice-Chair (4-0)
• Increased elected County Attorney salary to $160,000 (3-2)
• Adopted new Sick Leave Policy incorporating Earned Sick and Safe Time (5-0)
• Approved 2024 Legislative Priorities, including Trails & Tourism Relative to Insurance (5-0)
• Reallocated two Records Deputy Grade 7 positions to Records Deputy II Grade 8 positions (5-0)
• Awarded 2024 legal publication bids to Scenic Range News and Grand Rapids Herald Review (5-0)
• Approved 2024 Annual Delegation of Electronic Funds Transfers (5-0)
• Approved various appointments to county committees, commissions, and boards (5-0)