Itasca County public meetings in 2025

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority will meet on Dec 16, 2025 at 2:00 PM in the county boardroom. The agenda includes approving the minutes from the Nov 18, 2025 meeting, and two informational discussions: a US Steel license amendment related to the Mesabi Trail, and a general discussion of the Mesabi Trail. No other decisions are listed.

• Approve minutes of the Tuesday, November 18, 2025 Regional Railroad Authority meeting
• Discuss US Steel license amendment concerning the Mesabi Trail (presented by Sara Thompson)
• Discuss the Mesabi Trail (presented by Sara Thompson and Sarah Ciochetto)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider a range of routine and major items, including a consent agenda of contracts, insurance adjustments, and fee changes. The regular agenda includes the adoption of the county levy and budget, a countywide drug and alcohol testing policy, and a grant request for airport hangar site preparation. Several commissioner warrants and updates from the administrator and committees will also be discussed.

• Approve final payment for Contract 62407 – Bituminous Paving Projects
• Approve reduced insurance requirement for Bigfork Valley Hospital ($1,000,000 per occurrence, $3,000,000 aggregate)
• Approve grant request to MnDOT Aeronautics for Bowstring Municipal Airport hangar site prep ($50,000 total, $20,000 local match)
• Request approval for fee increase for online real estate records
• Adopt levy and budget for the county

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The commission will approve the minutes from the 11/12/2025 meeting and discuss several conditional use items. Old business includes a permit for a dog training facility in Unorganized Township 56-26. New business includes a seasonal RV campground expansion adding 16 campsites at Trout Lake Campground LLC in Trout Lake Township, and an amendment to extend the expiration of Conditional Use Permit #240075 for a temporary construction yard in Harris Township. The meeting also includes a Water Plan Implementation Committee report.

• Approve minutes of the 11/12/2025 regular meeting
• Conditional Use Permit for a dog training facility, SW NE, Section 10, Unorganized Township 56-26 (Tina Jorgenson & Thomas Dosen-Windorski)
• Conditional Use for seasonal RV campground expansion, add 16 campsites, Trout Lake Campground LLC, Govt. Lot 3, Section 16, Trout Lake Township 55-24
• Conditional Use Permit Amendment to extend expiration of Permit #240075 for a temporary construction yard, Harris Township 54-25 (Hawkinson Construction/Precision Pipeline)
• Water Plan Implementation Committee (WPIC) report

The commission unanimously approved a conditional use permit for a dog training and guiding facility, extended the permit for a material/equipment storage yard for Precision Pipeline/Hawkinson Construction to Dec 31 2027, and approved a resort expansion adding 16 campsites at Trout Lake Campground. Each approval included specific conditions such as best management practices, traffic limits, septic sizing, and vegetative buffers. The agenda was reordered and the meeting minutes were approved, both unanimously.

• Amended agenda to place Precision Pipeline/Hawkinson Construction CUP before Trout Lake Campground CUP (unanimously)
• Approved minutes of 11/12/2025 hearing (unanimously)
• Approved CUP for dog training facility and guiding service (unanimously) – condition: comply with Best Management Practices
• Approved amendment to CUP #240075 for Precision Pipeline/Hawkinson Construction to extend expiration to 12/31/2027 (unanimously) – conditions: cement truck traffic 6 am‑6 pm; permit expires 12/31/2027
• Approved CUP for Trout Lake Campground resort expansion adding 16 campsites (unanimously) – conditions: appropriate septic sizing; vegetative buffer; removal of non‑compliant trailer and tent sites
• Motion to close public portion of meeting (unanimously)
• Motion to close public portion of meeting after dog training discussion (unanimously)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will meet to adopt the county levy and budget during a public session. Other business includes reviewing professional service contracts and road infrastructure changes.

• Adoption of Levy and Budget
• 2025 contract with CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP
• Contract for Health Care Services in the Itasca County Jail with Grand Itasca Clinic & Hospital (Fairview)
• Resolution to revoke connecting roads from CSAH 4 to Terry Road and Etters Road to Lake Jessie Township
• Sponsorship of a Local Road Improvement Program (LRIP) funding application for the City of Calumet

The Itasca County Board approved the amended agenda, the previous meeting minutes, and the consent agenda, each by a 5‑0 vote. The board also approved commissioner warrants totaling $74,390.64 and a health‑care contract with Grand Itasca Clinic & Hospital for the county jail, both unanimously. All items on the consent agenda—including a contract with CliftonLarsonAllen, an IMCare agreement, a LRIP sponsorship resolution, a final road‑work payment, and two ATV trail access applications—were approved as part of the unanimous consent agenda.

• Pull Item #6.3 (revoke portion of Terry Road & Etters Road) and approve agenda (5‑0)
• Approve minutes of the Nov 25, 2025 regular session (5‑0)
• Approve consent agenda (5‑0)
• Approve 2025 contract with CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP (as part of consent agenda)
• Authorize IMCare Director and County Board chair to sign IMCare–Clearwater Mental Health contract (as part of consent agenda)
• Adopt resolution to act as sponsor/fiscal agent for LRIP funding for City of Calumet (as part of consent agenda)
• Approve final payment for Contract 68104 SAP 031‑681‑004 CSAH 81 Bituminous Mill and Overlay (as part of consent agenda)
• Approve Commissioner Warrants $74,390.64 (5‑0)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will consider several 2026 service contracts and a gambling permit for the Grand Rapids Amateur Hockey Association. The meeting includes discussions on the Itasca County Memorial Forest Acquisition and ambulance services in Bigfork Valley.

• Proposed revocation of portions of Terryr Road and Etters Road with a public hearing set for January 6, 2026
• LG214 Premises Permit Application for gambling at Blueberry Bowl, 44919 Golf Course Rd, Deer River
• TriMin Support service agreement for 2026
• Itasca County Health and Human Services 2026 Purchase of Service Contracts
• Itasca County Memorial Forest Acquisition

The board approved a corrected 2026 meeting schedule and several contracts, including a gambling permit for Blueberry Bowl, health services contracts, and an ambulance services agreement. It set a Dec. 2 public hearing on revoking parts of Terryr and Etters Roads and approved the Memorial Forest land acquisition using grant funds. All items were adopted with unanimous or near‑unanimous votes.

• Adopt corrected 2026 Board meeting schedule (4‑0)
• Approve LG214 Premises Permit for gambling at Blueberry Bowl, Deer River (4‑0)
• Authorize Chair to sign TriMin Support service agreement for 2026 (4‑0)
• Approve Health and Human Services 2026 service contracts (4‑0)
• Set public hearing Dec 2, 2025 on Terryr and Etters Road revocation (4‑0)
• Approve Commissioner Warrants $1,681,036.69 (4‑0)
• Approve employee expense reimbursement for late submissions (3‑0)
• Approve Memorial Forest land purchase and dedication using grant funding (4‑0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority will meet to review the 2026 meeting schedule. The body will also hold discussions regarding a Heavy Haul Road Crossing Agreement and the Mesabi Trail.

• Heavy Haul Road Crossing Agreement
• Mesabi Trail discussion
• 2026 Regular Meeting Schedule

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority approved the agenda additions and corrections, the minutes from the October 14 meeting, the 2026 regular meeting schedule, and the Heavy Haul Road Crossing Agreement. All four items passed with a 5‑to‑0 vote. The Mesabi Trail update was informational only, with no action taken.

• Approved agenda additions/corrections (5-0)
• Approved October 14, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved 2026 regular meeting schedule (5-0)
• Approved Heavy Haul Road Crossing Agreement (5-0)
• Mesabi Trail update noted as informational – no action

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will discuss 2026 legislative priorities and a new Paid Family and Medical Leave policy. The meeting includes several contract awards for forest services and airport grants, as well as the sale of tax-forfeited properties.

• Grant request to MnDOT Aeronautics for Bowstring Municipal Airport Hangar Site Prep: $75,000
• Forest Road Service contract awarded to M & M Logging and Son's, Inc.: $29,060.00
• 2026 Containerized Seedling Contract awarded to PRT USA, Inc.: $52,017.56
• Approval of 2026 Liquor/Tobacco License renewals
• Terms of sale for 2025 tax-forfeited properties

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners approved a proclamation backing the joint Itasca County–Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Mental Health Court. The board also approved several contracts, policies, and grants, including a $75,000 hangar‑site grant, a $29,060 forest road service contract, and a new Paid Family and Medical Leave policy effective Jan. 1 2026. All motions passed unanimously with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved proclamation supporting Itasca County Mental Health Court (5‑0)
• Approved $75,000 MnDOT Aeronautics Hangar Site Prep grant with $30,000 local match (5‑0)
• Approved $29,060 Forest Road Service contract to M & M Logging and Son's, Inc. (5‑0)
• Approved new Paid Family and Medical Leave policy effective Jan 1 2026 (5‑0)
• Approved 2026 Liquor/Tobacco License renewals for county establishments (5‑0)
• Approved $52,017.56 2026 Containerized Seedling contract to PRT USA, Inc. (5‑0)
• Approved $129,700 allocation of 2023 SAHA to ICHRA Community Land Trust homes program (5‑0)
• Approved per‑diem resolution limiting commissioners to one per day (5‑0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will review a conditional use permit amendment to expand an educational facility from 50 to 150 students in Harris Township. They will also consider a conditional use permit for a seasonal ice‑fishing access road in Unorganized Township 146‑27. Several variance requests will be heard, including garage and deck setbacks in Harris, Carpenter, Unorganized, and Arbo Townships. The meeting will include approval of minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting.

• Conditional Use Permit amendment (CUP #240338) to expand educational facility to 150 students – Harris Township, Section 12 (Karl Larsen & Brook Kirwin)
• Conditional Use Permit for a Home Occupation II seasonal ice fishing access road – Unorganized Township 146‑27 (Michael Schuster/Lonny Witkofsky)
• Variance to replace a 24’x32’ garage with a 28’x40’ garage lacking required side property line setback – Lots 79‑80, Old Point Comfort, Harris Township 54‑25 (Joe Stauffer)
• Variance for a 15’x36’ deck, 36’x36’ dwelling, and 36’x30’ garage not meeting OHWL setback at Deer Lake – Carpenter Township 62‑24 (Ryan Litfin/Deer Lake Sunsets LLC)
• Variance for a dwelling/garage and deck not meeting side and OHWL setbacks at North Star Lake – Unorganized Township 58‑26 (Guy & Megan Buonincontro)

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved a Home Occupation II CUP for a seasonal ice‑fishing road (3‑2 vote) and unanimously approved a school CUP amendment expanding capacity to 150 students. It also unanimously approved four variance applications for garage, deck, and dwelling projects. The commission voted unanimously that a CUP is required for cannabis product sales, and by a 4‑1 vote that a CUP is not required for low‑potency edibles.

• Approved CUP for Home Occupation II seasonal ice‑fishing access road (3-2)
• Approved CUP amendment to expand school from 50 to 150 students (unanimous)
• Approved variance to replace garage with 28 × 40 ft structure (unanimous)
• Approved variance for deck, dwelling, and garage near Deer Lake (unanimous)
• Approved variance for deck, dwelling, and attached garage for Buonincontro property (unanimous)
• Required a CUP for cannabis product sales in liquor stores or stand‑alone businesses (unanimous)
• Determined a CUP is not required for low‑potency edibles/drinks (4-1)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider a consent agenda that includes several grant requests for the Bowstring Municipal Airport and a $1.5 million fund transfer for road maintenance in unorganized townships. Additional items are the approval of a Honeywell software upgrade contract and a new Paid Family and Medical Leave policy. The regular agenda will feature commissioner warrants, a United Way campaign update, and an award presentation for the Northwoods Regional ATV Trail Alliance.

• Transfer $1,500,000 from Unorganized Township Road and Bridge accounts to County Road and Bridge fund
• Grant request to MnDOT Aeronautics for Bowstring Municipal Airport utilities: $10,000 with $1,000 local match
• Grant request for Bowstring Municipal Airport Contruct SRE Equipment Building: $400,000 with $40,000 local match
• Grant request for Bowstring Municipal Airport Hangar Site Prep: $50,000 with $5,000 local match
• Approve Honeywell software upgrade and assurance contract 40099531

The Itasca County Board approved a resolution to enact a retail registration policy for cannabis businesses (4‑0). It also approved the IRRRB economic development grant request up to $250,000 (4‑0) and several contract awards, including a bridge replacement contract and IMCare/DHS agreements (4‑0). In a separate November meeting, the board approved the arbitration award for the Assistant County Attorney unit and two airport grant requests (each 3‑0).

• Adopted cannabis retail registration policy (4‑0)
• Approved IRRRB grant application up to $250,000 (4‑0)
• Approved bridge replacement contract Award 66808 to S & R Reinforcing (4‑0)
• Approved IMCare/DHS contracts and amendments for 2025/2026 (4‑0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants totaling $3,153,483.26 (4‑0)
• Approved arbitration award and prior agreements for Assistant County Attorney unit (3‑0)
• Approved Sheriff's Office fitness center policy and procedures (3‑0)
• Approved Bowstring Airport grant for A/D building utilities ($10,000 with $1,000 match) (3‑0)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will review 2026 IMCare/DHS contracts and a cannabis retail registration policy. The meeting includes decisions on road revocations and bridge replacement contracts.

• Public hearing set for Dec. 2, 2025, regarding the revocation of portions of Terryr Road and Etters Road
• Award of Contract 66808 for CSAH 68 & CR 439 Bridge Replacements to S & R Reinforcing, Inc.
• Timber bid auction scheduled for Dec. 11, 2025, at Cohasset Community Center
• Review and approval of 2026 IMCare/DHS contracts
• Discussion of Cannabis Retail Registration Policy

The board approved the agenda and minutes, adopted the cannabis retail registration policy, and approved several financial warrants and contracts, including a $3,153,483.26 commissioner warrant, a $1,079,834.53 health services warrant, and a $250,000 IRRRB grant application. It also approved the IMCare/DHS contracts and pulled Item #5.1 (Terry Road & Etters Road revocation) from the agenda. A closed session was held to discuss parcel ID 91-018-1303.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved minutes of Oct 21, 2025 session (4-0)
• Pulled Item #5.1 (Terry Road & Etters Road revocation) from agenda (4-0)
• Approved commissioner warrants $3,153,483.26 (4-0)
• Approved ICHHS warrants $1,079,834.53 (4-0)
• Approved IMCare/DHS contracts for 2025/2026 (4-0)
• Adopted cannabis retail registration policy (4-0)
• Approved IRRRB grant application up to $250,000 (4-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to review routine administrative actions and contract awards. The board is deciding on a state grant for airport operations and a contract for road work.

• Grant Contract for Bowstring Airport maintenance and operation for State Fiscal Years 2026 and 2027
• Contract 65207 for CSAH 52 Clearing & Grubbing awarded to George Bougalis & Sons Company
• Service Contract award to Wm. J. Schwartz & Sons, Inc

The board unanimously approved the agenda, minutes, and consent agenda. It authorized the execution of the Minnesota Department of Transportation Airport Maintenance and Operation Grant Contract for Bowstring Airport for fiscal years 2026‑2027. The board also approved $621,358.56 in commissioner warrants, canceled old warrants totaling $11,643.48, and awarded a $43,652.00 contract for Mesabi Bike Trail repairs, each by a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved minutes (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda (4-0)
• Authorized airport maintenance grant contract for Bowstring Airport (4-0)
• Approved commissioner warrants $621,358.56 (4-0)
• Adopted resolution to cancel old warrants totaling $11,643.48 (4-0)
• Awarded Mesabi Bike Trail repair contract $43,652.00 (4-0)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority will approve the minutes from its September 9, 2025 meeting. The board will consider additions or corrections to the agenda. An informational discussion will be held on the Mesabi Bike Trail repair project on County Road 61, presented by Sara Thompson.

• Approve minutes of the September 9, 2025 ICRRA meeting
• Additions/corrections to the agenda
• Informational discussion of Mesabi Bike Trail Repair – Co Rd 61 (Sara Thompson)

The board approved an addition to the agenda providing more information on the Mesabi Bike Trail Repair project (5‑0). The minutes from the September 9, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously (5‑0). The request to award the $43,652.00 Mesabi Trail Repair contract to Wm. J. Schwartz & Sons, Inc. was tabled.

• Approved addition to agenda for Mesabi Bike Trail Repair (5‑0)
• Approved September 9, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Tabled award of Mesabi Trail Repair contract $43,652.00

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider routine items on the consent agenda, including a grant agreement for the airport and a MFIP biennial agreement. Commissioners will present updates such as the 2024 audit exit and a proclamation for lights on after‑school programs. A public hearing will be held on a conditional use permit application submitted by Jared Craiglow. The meeting will also include employee recognition, awards presentations, and standard committee reports.

• Approve 2026‑2027 Itasca County MFIP Biennial Agreement application to the Department of Human Services
• Approve Final Grant Agreement GPZ-3101-105 to the Airport
• Public hearing on Conditional Use Permit for Jared Craiglow
• 2024 Audit Exit Presentation
• Lights on Afterschool Proclamation

The Itasca County Board approved its agenda, minutes, and consent items unanimously. It authorized $1,222,694.61 in commissioner warrants, adopted a Lights On Afterschool proclamation, approved a Conditional Use Permit for Jared Craiglow, and ratified a State Airport Fund grant agreement. All actions passed with a 5‑to‑0 vote.

• Approved agenda amendment adding TZD Award and Safe Exchange Zone Update (5-0)
• Approved minutes of Oct 7, 2025 regular session (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items including MFIP Biennial Agreement and Airport grant (5-0)
• Approved commissioner warrants for $1,222,694.61 (5-0)
• Adopted Lights On Afterschool proclamation (5-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Jared Craiglow (5-0)
• Approved State Airport Fund grant agreement (Resolution 2025-41) (5-0)
• Approved Lights On Afterschool proclamation (Resolution 2025-42) (5-0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will meet to consider conditional use permits for a construction business and dog training facility, as well as variances for cabin reconstruction and a garage setback.

• Conditional Use Permit for Craiglow Construction office and storage
• Conditional Use Permit for Tina Jorgenson dog training facility
• Variance for cabin reconstruction at Burrows Lake
• Variance for dwelling addition setback at New Co Rd 68
• After-the-Fact Variance for garage setback at Kaynosh Beach

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved the staff recommendation to recommend the County Board approve Craiglow Construction’s conditional‑use permit for an office and storage location. The board also tabled the dog‑training facility conditional‑use application pending a County Attorney response. Additionally, three variance requests – for the Grunz cabin, Dircks dwelling addition, and Adams garage – were approved. All motions carried unanimously.

• Recommended approval of Craiglow Construction CUP (unanimous)
• Tabled Jorgenson/Dosen‑Windorski dog‑training facility CUP pending County Attorney response (unanimous)
• Approved variance for William & Kelly Grunz cabin, amended setback to 52 ft from OHWL (unanimous)
• Approved variance for Christopher Dircks 876 sf dwelling addition 1 ft from side property line (unanimous)
• Approved after‑the‑fact variance for Rebecca & Mark Adams 40 × 40 ft garage 38 ft from road centerline (unanimous)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will handle routine items like contract approvals and resignations via a consent agenda. The board will also consider a professional services contract for a Nashwauk trailhead and a grant award for road safety.

• Accept resignation of Sherrie Porth from Park and Recreation Commission
• Approve software automation service contract with Johnson Controls
• Authorize signing of contracts with IMCare and Healing Waters Counseling
• Accept Toward Zero Death Safe Roads Grant award of $11,480.80
• Approve professional services contract renewal with Aune Fernandez Landscape Architects

The Itasca County Board approved a series of consent agenda items, including two staff resignations, multiple service contracts, and several grant and lease agreements. Notably, the board accepted the $11,480.80 Toward Zero Death Safe Roads Grant and authorized the county to act as sponsor for Harris Township’s Wendigo Park Road LRIP application. All consent agenda actions were approved by a 3‑to‑0 vote.

• Accepted resignation of Sherrie Porth (effective Aug 21 2025) (3‑0)
• Accepted resignation of Brian Carlson (effective May 17 2025) (3‑0)
• Approved Johnson Controls software automation contract (3‑0)
• Approved $11,480.80 Toward Zero Death Safe Roads Grant (3‑0)
• Approved final payment for bridge bearing replacement on CSAH 91 (3‑0)
• Approved LRIP sponsorship for Wendigo Park Road rehabilitation (3‑0)
• Approved professional services contract for Nashwauk Multi‑use Trailhead (3‑0)
• Approved National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Month proclamation (3‑0)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will review the 2025 proposed levy and consider a contract for a comprehensive trail study. The meeting also includes discussions on a memorandum of understanding with the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and road improvement funding for Feeley Township.

• Purchase of Service Agreement with Plum Catalyst, LLC for $155,000 for the Itasca County Comprehensive Trail Study
• 2025 Proposed Levy discussion
• Resolution to act as sponsor/fiscal agent for Feeley Township's Local Road Improvement Program (LRIP) application
• MOU between Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and Itasca County
• Letter of Support for MPCA Reuse Grant Application

The Itasca County Board adopted the agenda and approved the prior meeting minutes unanimously. It approved several financial items, including a $155,000 service agreement for a trail study, a $3,918 shared payment with the City of Grand Rapids, commissioner warrants for $604,883.30, and health and human services warrants for $992,313.40, all by 5‑0 votes. The Board adopted the proposed 2026 tax levy of $47,858,021 with a 3‑2 vote and also approved a proclamation for National 4‑H Week.

• Approved agenda amendment (5-0)
• Approved minutes of Sept 16, 2025 meeting (5-0)
• Approved $155,000 service agreement with Plum Catalyst for trail study (5-0)
• Approved $3,918 shared payment with City of Grand Rapids (5-0)
• Approved commissioner warrants totaling $604,883.30 (5-0)
• Approved ICHHS warrants totaling $992,313.40 (5-0)
• Approved 2026 proposed tax levy of $47,858,021 (3-2)
• Approved 4‑H Week proclamation (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider routine items on the consent agenda, including a grant agreement for the Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport and final payment for 2025 pavement markings. Commissioners will provide warrants, updates on the "Towards Zero Deaths" initiative, and a request to sign an agreement with Diversion Solutions, LLC for an adult criminal diversion program. The meeting also includes public hearings on rezoning applications submitted by Jolly Otter Properties, LLC and the PCBA.

• Approve Gate Project Grant Agreement #3-27-0037-032-2025 at the Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport
• Approve final payment for SAP 031-030-004 – 2025 Pavement Markings
• Public hearing on rezoning application submitted by Jolly Otter Properties, LLC
• Public hearing on rezoning application submitted by the PCBA
• Request authorization to sign agreement with Diversion Solutions, LLC for an adult criminal diversion program

The Itasca County Board approved a $2,511,201.69 commissioner warrant. It also approved the Gate Project Grant Agreement for the Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport, the final payment for 2025 pavement markings, rezoning applications for Jolly Otter Properties and the PCBA, and authorized the County Attorney to sign Diversion Solutions contracts. All actions passed unanimously (5‑0).

• Approved commissioner warrants for $2,511,201.69 (5‑0)
• Approved Gate Project Grant Agreement #3-27-0037-032-2025 at the airport (5‑0)
• Approved final payment for SAP 031-030-004 – 2025 Pavement Markings (5‑0)
• Approved Jolly Otter Properties rezoning application (5‑0)
• Approved PCBA rezoning application (5‑0)
• Authorized County Attorney to sign Diversion Solutions Adult Criminal Diversion contracts (5‑0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will review several land‑use applications. Items include a conditional use permit amendment to allow public boat and RV storage on Mishawaka Road, a conditional use permit for a seasonal ice‑fishing access road, rezoning proposals changing Rural Residential to Recreational Commercial and Public to Farm Residential, and two variances for a septic system setback and a dwelling addition setback. The commission will also consider approval of the minutes from the August 13, 2025 meeting.

• Conditional Use Permit amendment #001473 for public boat/RV storage – S 175.35’ of NW SE Less W 500’ and SW SE LYG N of Centerline of Mishawaka Rd., Section 5, Harris Township 54‑25 (Mishawaka Outdoors LLC)
• Conditional Use Permit for Home Occupation II – seasonal ice fishing access road, Part of NE SE and Part of SE SE, Section 11, Unorganized Township 146‑27 (Winnibigoshish, General Development) (Michael Schuster/Lonny Witkofsky)
• Rezone Rural Residential to Recreational Commercial – Part of Lot 1, Section 18, Bowstring Township 147‑25 (Bowstring, Recreational Development 2 Class) (Jolly Otter Properties, LLC)
• Rezone Public to Farm Residential – Part of NW NW, Section 12, Harris Township 54‑25 (FAFO, LLC and Jacob Wunderlich)
• Variance from Subsurface Sewage Treatment System Ordinance for septic system setback – Lot 11, Block 1 and S ½ of Vacated Cartway LYG N & Adj thereto, Section 31, Unorganized Township 57‑26 (Deer Lake, Recreational Development 2 Class) (Fred & Kristy Moyer)

The Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved Mishawaka Outdoors LLC’s request to amend its conditional use permit for public boat and RV storage, requiring a 25‑foot setback from Hwy 169. It denied a similar seasonal ice‑fishing road permit because it duplicated a previously rejected application. The board recommended two rezoning changes to the County Board—one for Jolly Otter Properties (Rural Residential to Recreational Commercial) and one for FAFO, LLC and Jacob Wunderlich (Public to Farm Residential). It also approved two variance applications, each with specific conditions.

• Approved Mishawaka Outdoors LLC CUP amendment for public boat/RV storage (unanimous) – condition: 25’ setback from Hwy 169 RROW
• Denied Michael Schuster/Lonny Witkofsky CUP for seasonal ice‑fishing access road (2‑1 vote)
• Recommended to County Board approval of Jolly Otter Properties rezoning to Recreational Commercial (unanimous)
• Recommended to County Board approval of rezoning of parcels #19‑012‑2210 and #19‑012‑2211 to Farm Residential (unanimous)
• Approved Fred & Kristy Moyer variance for septic treatment 15’ from structure (unanimous) – conditions: install gutters, follow BMP
• Approved Jacob & Sara Smestad variance for 12’x42’ dwelling addition 3.5’ from side line (unanimous) – condition: comply with BMP

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority will approve minutes from the July 8, 2025 meeting. The board will then discuss an electrical and fiber optic line agreement presented by Karin Grandia. The meeting is scheduled for 2:00 PM on September 9, 2025 in the county boardroom.

• Approve minutes of the July 8, 2025 Regional Rail Authority meeting
• Discussion of Electrical and Fiber Optic Line Agreement (presented by Karin Grandia)

The Regional Railroad Authority approved the Crusher Conveyor Agreement on July 8, 2025 (5‑0). On September 9, 2025 the board authorized the execution of the Electrical and Fiber Optic Line Agreement with Mesabi Metallics Company, LLC, also by a 5‑0 vote. Both approvals were unanimous among the five commissioners.

• Approved agenda additions/corrections (5‑0)
• Approved minutes of June 10, 2025 meeting (5‑0)
• Approved Crusher Conveyor Agreement (5‑0)
• Approved Electrical and Fiber Optic Line Agreement with Mesabi Metallics (5‑0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a contract agreement involving the Sheriff's Office and Bigfork Valley. The board will also review a 2025 MCIT Board Report.

• Contract Agreement between Itasca County Sheriff's Office and Bigfork Valley
• 2025 MCIT Board Report

The board unanimously approved its agenda and the minutes from the September 2 meeting. It authorized the Bowstring Airport Maintenance and Operations grant agreement with MnDOT and adopted the related resolution. The commissioners also approved $255,590.11 in warrants, a contract and policing agreement with Bigfork Valley Hospital that includes hiring one Grade 10 road deputy, and the consent agenda items. All motions passed 5‑0.

• Approved agenda as presented (5‑0)
• Approved September 2 minutes (5‑0)
• Added Item #5.1 Bowstring Airport Maintenance Contract and approved consent agenda (5‑0)
• Approved Commissioner warrants $255,590.11, check date Sept 10 2025 (5‑0)
• Approved Contract Services and Policing Agreement with Bigfork Valley Hospital and hire of 1 Grade 10 Road Deputy (5‑0)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑32 authorizing execution of Airport Maintenance and Operations Grant Agreement (5‑0)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will meet to address routine county business and consent items. Key actions include funding for road maintenance in unorganized townships and a gravel crushing contract.

• Transfer of $1,500,000 from Unorganized Township road and bridge accounts to the County Road and Bridge fund
• Contract 2025-07 for Gravel Crushing Moose Park Pit awarded to TNT Construction Group, LLC for $77,500.00
• Resolution in support of Federal IDA Grant Application
• Donation of 2 laptops to Trout Lake Fire Department
• Lease agreement with MN Timber Producers, Inc. for the 2025 North Star Timber Expo

The Itasca County Board approved several items, including $2,614,684.39 in ICHHS warrants, $1,298,346.06 in commissioner warrants, a $77,500 gravel crushing contract, and a lease for the 2025 North Star Timber Expo. The board also adopted a resolution supporting a Federal IDA grant application, donated two laptops to the Trout Lake Fire Department, and authorized out‑of‑state travel for the sheriff and corrections sergeant. All actions were approved unanimously.

• Approved $2,614,684.39 ICHHS warrants (5‑0)
• Approved $1,298,346.06 commissioner warrants (5‑0)
• Awarded $77,500 contract to TNT Construction Group for gravel crushing (5‑0)
• Approved lease agreement for 2025 North Star Timber Expo (5‑0)
• Adopted resolution supporting Federal IDA Grant Application (5‑0)
• Approved donation of 2 laptops to Trout Lake Fire Department (5‑0)
• Authorized out‑of‑state travel to Ottawa, IL for Sheriff and Corrections Sergeant (5‑0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider several service agreements, including a bridge design contract for a replacement on County Road 254 (Farm Camp Rd.) over the Rice River. It will also review grant approvals for trail studies and housing support services. Additional agenda items include citizen input, employee recognition, and updates on transportation and construction projects.

• Approve technical service contract with Erickson Engineering CO., LLC for bridge design on CR 254 (Farm Camp Rd.) over Rice River
• Approve purchase agreements with ICHHS and four partners for Housing Support Funds outreach and monitoring
• Approve grant applications ranging $5,000‑$15,000 for a Comprehensive Trail Study
• Approve $20,000 contract with University of Minnesota Extension for a Comprehensive Trail Study
• Authorize County Engineer to execute bridge design contract documents

The Itasca County Board approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the August 19 session, each by a 5‑to‑0 vote. It also approved multiple service agreements for housing support, a bridge design contract, a $20,000 trail‑study contract, a tobacco license, and commissioner warrants, all unanimously. The board adopted Resolution 2025‑30 to accept an IRRR Development Partnership grant if awarded.

• Approved agenda (5‑0)
• Approved minutes of Aug 19, 2025 session (5‑0)
• Approved four ICHHS service agreements for housing support funds (5‑0)
• Approved bridge design contract with Erickson Engineering for CR 254 replacement (5‑0)
• Approved $20,000 contract with University of Minnesota Extension for trail study (5‑0)
• Approved tobacco license for Rodney A Heller dba Rocket's LLC (5‑0)
• Approved commissioner warrants totaling $230,598.62 (5‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑30 to accept IRRR Development Partnership grant if awarded (5‑0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will vote on several routine items, including designating a Dangerous Dog Hearing Officer, approving a grant for the Gate Project at the Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport, and awarding a construction contract to Casper Construction, Inc. Additional agenda items include updates on county purchasing, a memorandum of understanding with AEOA Youth Services and County Probation, and a revised water‑management agreement for the Big Fork River watershed.

• Designate County Assessor William Hilback as Dangerous Dog Hearing Officer effective 8/19/2025
• Approve Gate Project Grant Agreement #3-27-0037-031-2025 at the Grand Rapids/Itasca County Airport
• Award Contract 65407 CSAH 54 Construction Projects to Casper Construction, Inc., pending Office of Civil Rights approval
• Memorandum of Understanding between AEOA Youth Services and County Probation
• Updated Memorandum of Agreement for the Big Fork River Watershed Comprehensive Water Management Plan

The board approved its agenda and the minutes from the August 12 meeting. It designated County Assessor William Hilback as the Dangerous Dog Hearing Officer and approved a grant for the Grand Rapids Airport gate project. The board awarded a construction contract to Casper Construction, Inc. and approved commissioner warrants totaling $3,847,839.83. It also approved a youth‑services memorandum of understanding and an updated watershed planning agreement.

• Approved agenda (5‑0)
• Approved minutes of August 12, 2025 session (5‑0)
• Designated William Hilback as Dangerous Dog Hearing Officer (5‑0)
• Approved Gate Project Grant Agreement at Grand Rapids Airport (5‑0)
• Awarded construction contract to Casper Construction, Inc. (5‑0)
• Approved commissioner warrants totaling $3,847,839.83 (5‑0)
• Approved MOU between AEOA Youth Services and County Probation (5‑0)
• Approved updated MOA for Big Fork River Watershed plan (5‑0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission will consider permits for swap meets in Morse Township and a dog kennel in Harris Township. The Board of Adjustment will review two variance requests regarding building setbacks in Unorganized Townships 59-25 and 56-26.

• Conditional Use Permit for swap meets and vendor camping in Morse Township (Chad Mertz/Gbr Land Management LLC)
• Conditional Use Permit for a dog kennel/grooming facility in Harris Township (Sean Leonhard)
• Variance for a 24’x32’ cabin and 6’x32’ porch setbacks from Eagle Lake and property line (Michael & Carole Sura)
• After-the-Fact Variance for a 24’x24’ dwelling addition setback from a bluff (Michael Erickson)

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a conditional use permit for Chad Mertz to hold swap meets with vendor camping, and another conditional use permit for Sean Leonhard to operate a dog kennel/grooming facility, each with specific conditions. The board also unanimously approved an after‑the‑fact variance for Mike Erickson’s dwelling addition and a variance for Mike and Carole Sura’s cabin and porch, also with conditions. All approvals were recorded as unanimous votes.

• Approved conditional use permit for Chad Mertz swap meets with vendor camping; condition: use Best Management Practices (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use permit for Sean Leonhard dog kennel/grooming facility; conditions: business hours 7 a.m.–7 p.m., gated security, lighting directed away from neighbors (unanimous)
• Approved after‑the‑fact variance for Mike Erickson 24’x24’ dwelling addition; conditions: deck removed by 10/31/2025 and gutters directed away from lake (unanimous)
• Approved variance for Mike & Carole Sura 24’x32’ cabin and 6’x32’ porch; condition: comply with Best Management Practices during construction (unanimous)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider several routine actions, including approving a collective bargaining agreement for the Teamsters 320 contract and appointing a new member to the Park & Recreation Commission. It will also approve a tobacco license for Casey's Retail Company in Bigfork and a contract for student engagement services with Ross Resources, Ltd. A resolution to sell approximately 5.2 acres of tax-forfeited land for $15,620 land value and $1,540 timber value will be adopted.

• Approve and authorize signatures for the 2025-2027 Teamsters 320 collective bargaining agreement
• Appoint Molly MacGregor to the Park & Recreation Commission (District #2 vacancy)
• Approve tobacco license for Casey's Retail Company dba Casey's #5235 at 406 Main Ave, Bigfork, MN
• Approve Student Engagement & Attendance Support Program Services contract with Ross Resources, Ltd. (Sept 1, 2025 – Aug 31, 2026)
• Adopt resolution to sell ~5.2 acres of tax-forfeited land for $15,620 land value and $1,540 timber value, removing it from Dunn‑Stephens Memorial Forest

The Itasca County Board adopted its agenda and consent items, then approved several key actions. Notably, the board voted 5‑0 to sell tax‑forfeited land to the Swampsider’s Snowmobile and ATV Club for a land value of $15,620 and timber value of $1,540. Additional unanimous approvals included TED consulting funding, private PFML coverage through MetLife, and reallocation of an open public‑health nurse position to a social‑worker role.

• Approved agenda and consent items (5‑0)
• Approved sale of tax‑forfeited land to Swampsider’s Snowmobile and ATV Club (5‑0)
• Approved TED funding request up to $10,000 for consulting services (5‑0)
• Approved pursuit of private PFML coverage through MetLife (5‑0)
• Approved reallocation of open Public Health Nurse position to a Social Worker position (5‑0)
• Approved Commissioner warrants totaling $433,680.88 (5‑0)
• Appointed Molly MacGregor to the Park & Recreation Commission (5‑0)
• Approved tobacco license for Casey's Retail Company dba Casey's #5235 (5‑0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider routine consent agenda items, including appointments, bond amendments, and equipment sales. Commissioners will discuss the IMCare Compliance Plan and related policies. The board will vote on ending the Nashwauk ambulance contract effective September 30, 2025 and on releasing a security interest for the ambulance to the City of Nashwauk. Additional items include a joint powers agreement with the Minnesota State Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and lease agreements with Mesabi Metallics Co.

• Appoint Allison Rajala Ahcan to the Water Plan Implementation Committee
• Approve First Amendment to the Bond Declaration with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
• Authorize the Transportation Department to sell a motor grader to the City of Nashwauk
• Approve the request to end the Nashwauk Ambulance Contract effective 09/30/2025
• Lease agreements with Mesabi Metallics Co.

The board approved the execution of a property tax abatement contract with Foxhaven LLC (5‑0). It also adopted a bridge‑bonding resolution, approved joint powers agreements with the state, terminated the Nashwauk Ambulance contract, released its security interest, authorized $597,292.49 in commissioner warrants, approved lease agreements with Mesabi Metallics, and authorized two utility easements (all 5‑0 except the security interest release, which was 4‑1).

• Approved execution of Foxhaven LLC tax abatement contract (5‑0)
• Adopted Bridge Bonding resolution (5‑0)
• Approved Joint Powers Agreements with Minnesota state agencies (5‑0)
• Terminated Nashwauk Ambulance contract effective 9/30/2025 (5‑0)
• Released security interest in Nashwauk Ambulance to allow transfer to North Memorial (4‑1)
• Authorized Commissioner Warrants totaling $597,292.49 (5‑0)
• Approved Lease Agreements with Mesabi Metallics Co. (5‑0)
• Approved two utility easements for Lake County Power over tax‑forfeited land (5‑0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will meet on July 29, 2025 to discuss the library's financial information. The agenda lists this as the sole regular item for the session. No other decisions or proposals are noted.

• Review of library financial information

The Itasca County Board met on July 29, 2025 for a special session. All five board members were present except one. The sole agenda item was informational and no action was taken. The meeting was adjourned at 2:33 PM.

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider and adopt a revised resolution for bridge bonding. Several labor contracts and fringe benefit updates are grouped on the consent agenda for approval. Additional items include liquor license approvals, a special election contract, and updates on public safety and infrastructure projects.

• Adopt Resolution Re: Bridge Bonding (Revised 7/16/2025)
• Approve new On‑Sale, Sunday Sales liquor license for Blueberry Hills Golf Course, Inc. (44510 Golf Course Road, Deer River)
• Approve date change for One Day Liquor License for Forward Health Foundation (31122 Malbay Rd, Cohasset)
• Special Election Contract with ISD 317
• MN Power – ISA Transmission Project presentation

The Itasca County Board approved its agenda and a consent agenda that included several labor contracts and fringe‑benefit updates. It also authorized two large warrant payments, a special election services contract, a joint powers agreement to combat vehicle theft, and the terms for a direct‑fee land sale. Additional approvals included a new Sunday liquor license for Blueberry Hills Golf Course.

• Approved agenda (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda with labor contracts and fringe‑benefit updates (4‑1)
• Approved Commissioner warrants for $1,139,948.99 (5‑0)
• Approved ICHHS department warrants for $1,371,735.78 (5‑0)
• Approved special election contract with ISD 317 (5‑0)
• Approved Joint Powers Agreement for Aitkin‑Itasca‑Mille Lacs Vehicle Theft Initiative (5‑0)
• Approved notice and terms of direct county fee‑owned land sale (5‑0)
• Approved new Sunday liquor license for Blueberry Hills Golf Course (5‑0)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will discuss a Joint Powers Agreement for a library operation study and receive updates from CEDA. The meeting also includes several routine contract approvals and personnel reallocations.

• Contract award to Arctic Heating and Cooling LLC
• 2025 lease with Northern Minnesota Swap Meet and Car Show
• MOA with Aitkin County for Advanced SSTS Design Review and Inspection
• Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) for Library Operation Study
• Reallocation of one Grade 10 Human Resources Specialist to a Recruiting and Development Specialist

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners approved the reallocation of a Grade 10 Human Resources Specialist position to a Recruiting and Development Specialist role, with a 5‑to‑0 vote. The board also adopted resolutions approving MnDOT agreements No. 1046667 and No. 1060098. It approved utility easements for Lake Country Power and Lake County Power and amendments to road easements in specified townships.

• Approve reallocation of Grade 10 HR Specialist to Recruiting and Development Specialist (5‑0)
• Adopt Resolution Re: MnDOT Agreement No. 1046667 (approved)
• Adopt Resolution Re: MnDOT Agreement No. 1060098 (approved)
• Approve utility easement for Lake Country Power over tax‑forfeited property in Outlot A, Little Moose Lake (approved)
• Approve utility easement for Lake County Power over tax‑forfeited property in NWNW, Section 15, Township 53 N, Range 23 W (approved)
• Approve amendments to road easements in Sections 8, 17, 18 of Township 60 N, Range 25 W (approved)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will consider a conditional use permit to allow periodic swap meets on a property in Morse Township (Section 18, parcel 145‑25). They will also consider several zoning variances, including an attached‑garage setback variance in Deer River Township (Section 1, Sunrise) and septic‑system setback variances for properties in Unorganized Township 57‑26. An after‑the‑fact variance for a cabin foundation replacement on Round Lake in Unorganized Township 59‑24 will be reviewed. The meeting includes routine agenda items such as approval of minutes from the June 11, 2025 meeting.

• Conditional Use Permit for swap meets on NE SW, Section 18, Morse Township 145‑25 (Chad Mertz/Gbr Land Management LLC)
• Variance for a 22’ x 24’ attached garage setback on W Deer Lake Rd, Sunrise, Section 1, Deer River Township 56‑27 (William & Michelle Greer)
• Variance for septic system setback from OHWL of Johnson Lake, Lot 1, Section 11, Unorganized Township 57‑26 (Robert Eggers)
• Variance for septic system setback from OHWL of Johnson Lake, Lot 1, Section 11, Unorganized Township 57‑26 (Shea Marana)
• After‑the‑Fact variance for cabin foundation replacement setback from OHWL of Round Lake, Lot 7, Section 15, Unorganized Township 59‑24 (Dennis Hall/Todd Erickson)

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved three variance applications for a garage and two septic systems, each with specific conditions. It tabled a conditional‑use permit for swap meets until the August meeting. It denied an after‑the‑fact variance for a cabin foundation replacement at Round Lake.

• Approved Greer garage variance (22’x24’ attached garage) – unanimous, condition: comply with Best Management Practices
• Approved Eggers septic system variance – unanimous, condition: survey south property line before installation
• Approved Marana septic system variance – unanimous, conditions: comply with Best Management Practices; survey property lines before installation
• Tabled Mertz swap‑meet conditional use permit until August – unanimous
• Denied Hall/Erickson after‑the‑fact cabin variance – unanimous (Bellomy, Maasch, Butterfield voting Aye)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority will approve the minutes from its June 10, 2025 meeting and hold an informational discussion on the Crusher Conveyor Agreement presented by Karin Grandia.

• Approve minutes of the June 10, 2025 Regional Rail Authority meeting
• Discussion of Crusher Conveyor Agreement (presented by Karin Grandia)

The board approved all agenda additions and the minutes from the June 10 meeting. It also approved the Crusher Conveyor Agreement and authorized the County Engineer to execute the agreement with Mesabi Metallics Company, LLC. All actions were approved unanimously (5-0).

• Approve agenda additions/corrections (5-0)
• Approve minutes of June 10, 2025 meeting (5-0)
• Approve Crusher Conveyor Agreement (5-0)
• Authorize County Engineer to execute Crusher Conveyor Agreement with Mesabi Metallics Company, LLC (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a property tax abatement public hearing and a YMCA lease addendum. The board will also consider several utility and road easements and two MnDOT agreements.

• Set public hearing regarding property tax abatement
• YMCA lease addendum
• MnDOT Agreement No. 1046667
• MnDOT Agreement No. 1060098
• Utility easements for Lake Country Power in Outlot A, Plat of Little Moose Lake and NWNW, Section 15, Township 53 North, Range 23 West

The board unanimously approved the agenda, minutes and a consent agenda that included two MnDOT agreements, several utility easements and road‑easement amendments. It also approved commissioner warrants totaling $1,222,693.23 and set a public hearing for a property‑tax abatement on August 5 2025. Separate resolutions adopted MnDOT Agreements No. 1060097 and No. 1060098 and scheduled the Foxhaven tax‑abatement hearing.

• Approved agenda (5‑0)
• Approved minutes (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda items – MnDOT Agreement No. 1046667 (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda items – MnDOT Agreement No. 1060098 (5‑0)
• Approved utility easements for Lake Country Power and Lake County Power (5‑0)
• Approved amendments to road easements (5‑0)
• Approved commissioner warrants $1,222,693.23 (5‑0)
• Approved setting public hearing for property tax abatement, Aug 5 2025 (5‑0)

County Board

The board will consider several routine items on the consent agenda, including approving a one‑day liquor license for Forward Health Foundation, accepting a $350,000 Community Living Infrastructure grant, awarding a bridge bearing‑pad replacement contract to S&R Reinforcing, Inc., approving a utility easement for Great River Energy, and adopting a resolution on tax‑forfeited land sales. In the regular agenda, commissioners will present warrants, a probation budget increase request, an out‑of‑state travel request, and a Grand Rapids update, followed by administrator and committee reports, citizen input, and closed‑session portions.

• Approve One Day Liquor License for Forward Health Foundation at Malbay Estate Reception Venue, 31122 Malbay Rd, Cohasset
• Accept Community Living Infrastructure (CLI) Grant of $350,000 for FY 2026/2027
• Award Contract CP 2025-03 for bridge bearing pad replacement on bridge #31516 on CSAH 91 to S&R Reinforcing, Inc.
• Approve Utility Easement for Great River Energy over county land in Government Lots 2 and 5, Section 2, Township 145N, Range 25W
• Adopt Resolution authorizing notice and terms of tax‑forfeited land sale to adjoining owners

The Itasca County Board approved a one‑day liquor license for Forward Health Foundation and accepted a $350,000 Community Living Infrastructure grant for FY 2026/2027. It also awarded a bridge bearing‑pad replacement contract, approved a utility easement for Great River Energy, and adopted a resolution to notify adjoining owners of a tax‑forfeited land sale. Additionally, the board approved commissioner warrants, a probation budget increase, and out‑of‑state travel for a corrections sergeant.

• Approved One Day Liquor License for Forward Health Foundation (4‑0)
• Accepted Community Living Infrastructure Grant of $350,000 for FY 2026/2027 (4‑0)
• Awarded bridge bearing pad replacement contract to S&R Reinforcing, Inc. (4‑0)
• Approved utility easement for Great River Energy over county land (4‑0)
• Adopted resolution to notify adjoining owners of tax‑forfeited land sale (4‑0)
• Approved Commissioner warrants totaling $127,716.21 (4‑0)
• Approved Probation Budget increase/reallocation (3‑1)
• Authorized out‑of‑state travel for Corrections Sergeant Dustin Ross to attend Axon Conference (4‑0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will approve routine items on the consent agenda, including housing support agreements, a probation service contract for juvenile sex offender treatment, and a contract award to Mr. Furnace. The regular agenda includes updates on grants, construction, and purchasing, and the board will discuss a resolution for a proposed DNR land acquisition and take action on third‑floor boardroom renovation estimates.

• Approve 2025/2026 Housing Support Agreements effective July 1 2025
• Approve service agreement with Dr. Beth Prewett, The Woods Therapy and Counseling Services PLLC for juvenile sex offender treatment (July 1 2025 – June 30 2027)
• Award contract to lowest responsible bidder, Mr. Furnace
• Resolution for proposed DNR land acquisition
• Final estimates on third‑floor boardroom project and action on renovations

The Itasca County Board approved several financial and operational items. Commissioner warrants totaling $21,443,780.97 and health department warrants of $897,843.83 were approved unanimously. The Board also approved housing support agreements, a juvenile sex‑offender treatment service contract, a contract award to Mr. Furnace, a $200,000 Blandin grant, a land‑acquisition resolution, and a reallocation of the Deputy Clerk position.

• Approved commissioner warrants for $21,443,780.97 (4‑0)
• Approved ICHHS department warrants for $897,843.83 (4‑0)
• Approved 2025/2026 Housing Support Agreements (4‑0)
• Approved purchase of juvenile sex‑offender treatment service agreement (4‑0)
• Awarded contract to Mr. Furnace as lowest responsible bidder (4‑0)
• Accepted Blandin Grant up to $200,000 for wellness court support (4‑0)
• Approved resolution for proposed DNR land acquisition (3‑1)
• Approved reallocation of Deputy Clerk position to Deputy Clerk/Deputy Administrator (4‑0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider several consent agenda items, including an ambulance service contract, a $676,972.76 road construction contract, and a recreational trail license agreement. A public hearing will be held on a conditional use permit for Mad Bear Alpine Area LLC. The Board will also discuss a tentative sponsorship for the Keewatin Connection ATV Trail. Additional items include grant applications by the Probation Department.

• Approve contract for ambulance service to Nashwauk Ambulance Subordinate Service District
• Award Contract 68104 CSAH 81 Bituminous Mill and Overlay to Hawkinson Construction for $676,972.76
• Approve Recreational Trail Master License Agreement with Blandin Paper Company
• Authorize Probation Department to apply for Remote Electronic Alcohol Monitor (REAM) Grant
• Public Hearing on Conditional Use Permit for Mad Bear Alpine Area LLC

The Itasca County Board approved the agenda (including Item #6.5) and the minutes from the June 10 session, both unanimously. The consent agenda authorized several contracts and agreements, notably the ambulance service contract with North Memorial Health Care and a $676,972.76 road contract with Hawkinson Construction. The board also approved $589,286 in commissioner warrants, a Conditional Use Permit for Mad Bear Alpine Area LLC, and tentative sponsorship for the Keewatin Connection ATV Trail. All votes were 5‑0 in favor.

• Approved agenda amendment adding Item #6.5 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of June 10, 2025 session (5-0)
• Approved ambulance service contract for Nashwauk Ambulance Subordinate Service District (5-0)
• Approved Contract 68104 CSAH 81 Bituminous Mill and Overlay to Hawkinson Construction for $676,972.76 (5-0)
• Approved Recreational Trail Master License Agreement with Blandin Paper Company (5-0)
• Approved commissioner warrants for $589,286 (5-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Mad Bear Alpine Area LLC (5-0)
• Approved tentative sponsorship for Keewatin Connection ATV Trail (5-0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will consider a conditional use permit for a multi-use alpine ski and snowboard area. The Board will also review four variance requests regarding building setbacks and water level requirements.

• Conditional Use Permit for Mad Bear Alpine Area LLC multi-use alpine ski & snowboard area near Co Rd 449
• Variance for 2600 SF dwelling/garage setback from Pennala Rd (Alexander Orlov)
• Variance for 30’x40’ garage setback from Cedar Springs Rd (CR Real Estate LLC/Steve Rindahl)
• Variance for 22’x24’ attached garage setback from W Deer Lake Rd (William & Michelle Greer)
• After-the Fact Variance for deck and dwelling addition setback from Deer Lake bluff and OHWL (Michael Erickson)

The commission unanimously approved the agenda and the minutes from the May 14 meeting. It recommended to the County Board approval of Mad Bear Alpine Area LLC’s conditional use permit for a multi‑use alpine ski and snowboard area, with a condition to follow Best Management Practices. The board also unanimously approved variances for Alex Orlov’s 2600 sf dwelling/garage and for CR Real Estate LLC’s 30 × 40 ft garage, and it tabled the variance for William & Michelle Greer’s garage until the July meeting. Finally, the commission unanimously denied Michael Erickson’s after‑the‑fact variance for a deck and dwelling addition.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• Minutes of 5/14/2025 approved (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Mad Bear Alpine Area LLC conditional use permit (unanimous)
• Approved variance for Alex Orlov – 2600 sf dwelling/garage (unanimous)
• Approved variance for CR Real Estate LLC – 30 × 40 ft garage (unanimous)
• Tabled variance for William & Michelle Greer – 22 × 24 ft garage until July meeting (unanimous)
• Denied after‑the‑fact variance for Michael Erickson – 16 × 24 ft deck and 24 × 24 ft dwelling addition (unanimous roll‑call)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority will convene to approve minutes from March 2025 and discuss a proposal for an ATV trail in the Mesabi Trail Corridor.

• Approve minutes from March 11, 2025 Regular Session
• Keewatin Trail Runners ATV Trail Proposal - Mesabi Trail Corridor

The board approved the meeting agenda with a 5‑to‑0 vote. The minutes from the March 11, 2025 session were also approved unanimously (5‑to‑0). The Keewatin Trail Runners ATV trail proposal was considered informational only, and no action was taken. The meeting was adjourned at 2:14 PM.

• Approved agenda (5‑0)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Keewatin Trail Runners ATV trail proposal noted as informational – no action taken

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider several consent agenda items, including two LG214 premises permits for gambling operations, a road easement for Blandin Paper Company, and the final payment for Contract 66112, a bridge replacement on County State‑Aid Highway 61. After the consent agenda, the board will hear citizen input, recognize county employees, discuss commissioner warrants, receive a Bush Grant update, and listen to a presentation from the Arrowhead Library Service.

• Approve LG214 premises permit for Community Charities of Minnesota to operate gambling at North Star Lake Resort, 37948 N Star Rd, Marcell, MN
• Approve LG214 premises permit for Grand Rapids Amateur Hockey Association to operate gambling at Chapman Resorts dba Anchor Inn Resort, 55960 County Road 4, Spring Lake, MN
• Approve road easement for Blandin Paper Company over tax‑forfeited trust land in SWSW Section 25, Township 53, Range 26
• Approve final payment for Contract 66112, bridge replacement project on CSAH 61

The Itasca County Board approved its agenda and minutes unanimously. It authorized several contracts, including a $676,972.76 construction contract and an ambulance service agreement, and approved $589,286 in commissioner warrants. The board also approved the Conditional Use Permit for Mad Bear Alpine Area LLC and a tentative sponsorship for the Keewatin Connection ATV Trail. A closed session was opened to discuss active litigation.

• Approved agenda amendment adding Item #6.5 (5‑0)
• Approved minutes of the June 10, 2025 regular session (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda items: ambulance contract, $676,972.76 construction contract, trail license agreement, and grant applications (5‑0 each)
• Approved commissioner warrants for $589,286 (5‑0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Mad Bear Alpine Area LLC (5‑0)
• Approved tentative sponsorship for the Keewatin Connection ATV Trail (5‑0)
• Entered closed session to discuss active litigation (5‑0)
• Returned to open session after closed session (5‑0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a proposed ATV trail connection and review several inter-agency agreements. The board is deciding on leases and grant contracts involving state departments.

• Proposed Deer River - Cohasset Connection ATV Trail sponsorship
• Lease 12567 between Itasca County and the State of Minnesota, Department of Corrections
• Fraud Prevention Program grant contract between Itasca County Health & Human Services and the State of Minnesota
• Landowner Enrollment Agreement for Lake States Forest Management Bat Habitat Conservation Plan

The Itasca County Board approved its agenda and the prior meeting minutes, each by a 4‑0 vote. The consent agenda was also approved 4‑0, which included the lease with the State Department of Corrections and a grant contract for the Fraud Prevention Program. Both the closed‑session and subsequent open‑session motions were approved unanimously (5‑0).

• Approved agenda (4‑0)
• Approved minutes of May 27, 2025 meeting (4‑0)
• Approved consent agenda (4‑0)
• Approved Lease 12567 with State Department of Corrections (4‑0)
• Approved Fraud Prevention Program grant contract (4‑0)
• Approved closed session on labor negotiations (5‑0)
• Approved open session to resume public business (5‑0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider two items on the consent agenda: an amendment to the tax abatement agreement with Yanmar Compact Equipment North America, and a purchase of equipment for the Assessor's department costing $3,745.59. The meeting also includes citizen input, employee recognitions, commissioner and ICHHS warrants, a library operations presentation, and a University of Minnesota Extension impact discussion. A closed‑session portion will address labor negotiations.

• Approve amendment to Tax Abatement Agreement with Yanmar Compact Equipment North America
• Approve $3,745.59 purchase of equipment for the Assessor's department using the Recorder's Compliance Fund
• Closed session discussion on labor negotiations
• Library Operations presentation by Will Richter
• University of Minnesota Extension impact presentation in Itasca County

The board approved the meeting agenda and minutes unanimously. It adopted the consent agenda, which included a resolution to amend the tax abatement agreement with Yanmar Compact Equipment North America and a $3,745.59 purchase for the Assessor's department. The board also approved commissioner warrants for $171,753.63 and ICHHS warrants for $2,340,272.41, and entered a closed session on labor negotiations. Finally, it formally approved the amendment to the Yanmar tax abatement agreement (Resolution 2025-17).

• Approve agenda (5-0)
• Approve minutes (5-0)
• Approve tax abatement amendment resolution (5-0)
• Approve $3,745.59 equipment purchase from Recorder's Compliance Fund (5-0)
• Approve commissioner warrants $171,753.63 (5-0)
• Approve ICHHS warrants $2,340,272.41 (5-0)
• Enter closed session for labor negotiations (5-0)
• Approve amendment to tax abatement agreement (Resolution 2025-17) (5-0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a bid award for the Nashwauk Ambulance Subordinate Service District. The board will also review a community health assessment and a construction update. Other routine approvals include liquor licenses and a snowmobile trail license.

• Bid award for Nashwauk Ambulance Subordinate Service District
• On Sale Liquor and Sunday Sales licenses for Cedar Creek Tavern at 34579 Highway 38
• Recreational Trail License for Keystone Snowmobile Trail
• Resolution fixing the notice and terms of Settlement Period Tax-Forfeited Land Sale
• Itasca County Community Health Assessment/Community Health Improvement Plan

The board approved the agenda and minutes, then adopted a consent agenda that included several items. It approved a liquor and Sunday sales license for CCG Operations Inc., accepted HHS advisory committee minutes, authorized an updated snowmobile trail license, and adopted Resolution 2025‑16 to sell tax‑forfeited parcels by online auction. The board also approved $1.24 million in commissioner warrants and awarded the Nashwauk ambulance contract to North Memorial for three years. All votes were unanimous (4‑0).

• Approved agenda (4‑0)
• Approved minutes of May 13 session (4‑0)
• Approved liquor and Sunday sales license for CCG Operations Inc. (4‑0)
• Accepted minutes of May 8 HHS Advisory Committee (4‑0)
• Approved updated recreational snowmobile trail license with Glacier Park Iron Ore Properties, LLC (4‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑16 authorizing tax‑forfeited land sale auction (4‑0)
• Approved commissioner warrants totaling $1,241,176.61 (4‑0)
• Awarded Nashwauk ambulance contract to North Memorial ($652,519 2025, $685,144 2027, $719,401 2028) (4‑0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment will review two variance requests. One request seeks a septic system setback variance for a property on Lot 9, Block 1, Crystal Waters in Unorganized Township 57-26 (Michael & Cherie Simmons) near Johnson Lake. The other request seeks a variance to expand a public landing and increase parking/turnaround area at Lot 37 of East Wendigo Park in Harris Township, which would exceed the allowable impervious surface. The board will also approve the minutes from the April 9, 2025 regular meeting.

• Approve minutes of the 4/9/2025 regular meeting
• Variance for septic system setback at Johnson Lake, Natural Environment 3 Class, Lot 9, Block 1, Crystal Waters, Unorganized Township 57-26 (Michael & Cherie Simmons)
• Variance to expand public landing, increase parking/turnaround, exceed impervious surface at Lot 37, East Wendigo Park, Harris Township 54-25

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment approved its agenda and the minutes from the April 9 hearing unanimously. It approved a variance for Michael & Cherie Simmons to install a septic system 55 feet from Johnson Lake’s ordinary high water level, also unanimously. After a failed motion to table the Harris Township application (2‑3), the commission approved Harris Township’s variance to expand a public landing and exceed the impervious‑surface limit by a 3‑2 vote. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 4/9/2025 hearing (unanimous)
• Approved Simmons septic system variance (unanimous)
• Tabled Harris Township variance application (motion failed 2-3)
• Approved Harris Township public landing variance (3-2)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

County Board

The board will consider items on the consent agenda, including awarding a $2,842,756.32 contract to Hawkinson Construction for bituminous paving projects and approving a short‑term lease of tax‑forfeited trust land to William J. Schwartz and Sons, Inc. The regular agenda includes citizen input, a legislative conference call, employee recognition, a data request policy, commissioner warrants, an updated ATV trail proposal, a crisis response team annual report, and commissioner committee assignments. The meeting also includes administrator updates, committee reports, and commissioner comments, with portions possibly closed to the public.

• Award Contract 60815 Bituminous Paving Projects to Hawkinson Construction, $2,842,756.32
• Approve Holman short‑term lease of tax‑forfeited trust land to William J. Schwartz and Sons, Inc., section 27, T56N‑R24W
• Updated Keewatin Trail Runners ATV Trail Proposal
• Crisis Response Team Annual Report
• Data Request Policy

The Itasca County Board approved commissioner warrants totaling $2,340,918.52 with a 5‑to‑0 vote. It also approved scheduling a public meeting on June 5, 2025 for the Keewatin Trail Runners ATV trail proposal (5‑to‑0) and reassigned committee assignments for Commissioner Hopkins and District #4 (each 5‑to‑0). A $2,842,756.32 bituminous paving contract and a short‑term lease of tax‑forfeited land were presented, but the minutes do not record a vote on those items.

• Approved commissioner warrants $2,340,918.52 (5-0)
• Approved scheduling public meeting June 5, 2025 for Keewatin ATV trail proposal (5-0)
• Approved reassigning committees to Commissioner Hopkins (5-0)
• Approved assigning Commissioner District #4 to committees (5-0)
• Approved agenda as amended (5-0)
• Approved minutes of May 6, 2025 session (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Presented award contract 60815 to Hawkinson Construction $2,842,756.32 (no vote recorded)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to consider a new ATV trail connecting Deer River and Cohasset and a strategic plan for economic development. The board will also review the sale of road and bridge equipment and a transmission project presentation from MN Power.

• Deer River - Cohasset Connection ATV Trail proposal
• Sale of Road & Bridge Equipment and use of Unallocated Funds for purchase
• ISA Transmission Project presentation by MN Power
• Cooperative Forest Road Agreement 25-RO-11090300-009 with Chippewa National Forest
• Phase 2 - Part 1 IRC Door FOB Security Access System Contracts

The board unanimously approved the regular agenda, consent agenda, and multiple actions including out‑of‑state travel, a timber auction notice, a lease with Grand Rapids Speedway, a grant for Bass Lake Park, the award of the Chloride contract to Edwards Oil Inc, and $1,505,601.14 in health‑and‑human‑services warrants. It also adopted resolutions for National Correctional Officers Week, the 2024 Emergency Operation Plan, and a sub‑grant agreement, and approved a Joint Powers Agreement for background checks (4‑0). All motions passed as recorded.

• Approved regular agenda (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda (5‑0)
• Authorized out‑of‑state travel to San Antonio, TX (5‑0)
• Approved lease agreement with Grand Rapids Speedway, Inc. (5‑0)
• Awarded County Project 2025‑04 Chloride contract to Edwards Oil Inc (5‑0)
• Approved ICHHS warrants for April 2025 totaling $1,505,601.14 (5‑0)
• Adopted 2024 Itasca County/City Emergency Operation Plan (5‑0)
• Approved Non‑Criminal Justice Agency Background Checks Joint Powers Agreement (4‑0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to handle routine authorizations and grant applications. The board is considering a lease agreement with Grand Rapids Speedway, Inc. and a grant for Bass Lake Park and Campground improvements.

• Notice of intermediate and regular oral bid auction of timber on June 4, 2025
• 2025 Lease Agreement with Grand Rapids Speedway, Inc.
• Blandin Foundation grant application for Bass Lake Park and Campground improvements
• Community Living Infrastructure Grant Application
• Hazard Mitigation Assistance Sub-Grant Agreement

The Itasca County Board unanimously approved the April 2025 Itasca County Health & Human Services warrants totaling $1,505,601.14. It also approved the submission of a Community Living Infrastructure grant proposal, proclaimed National Correctional Officers Week, adopted the 2024 Emergency Operation Plan, and authorized several out‑of‑state travel requests and contract awards.

• Approved ICHHS warrants for April 2025 totaling $1,505,601.14 (5‑0)
• Approved submission of CLI grant proposal to Minnesota Dept. of Human Services (5‑0)
• Adopted resolution proclaiming May 4‑10, 2025 as National Correctional Officers Week (5‑0)
• Adopted 2024 Itasca County/City Emergency Operation Plan and authorized Chair to sign (5‑0)
• Authorized execution of Hazard Mitigation Assistance sub‑grant agreement (5‑0)
• Authorized out‑of‑state travel to San Antonio, TX for Naesa Myers to attend Preparedness Summit (5‑0)
• Authorized out‑of‑state travel to Omaha, NE for five county officials to attend Boys Town program (5‑0)
• Awarded County Project 2025‑04 Chloride contract to Edwards Oil Inc dba Trimark Industrial (5‑0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to vote on several infrastructure contracts and liquor licenses. The session includes reviews of IMCare program documents and a discussion on a proposed ATV trail connection.

• Bituminous Paving Projects contract to Hawkinson Construction for $2,515,063.41
• 2025 Pavement Markings contract to Sir Lines-A-Lot, LLC for $221,536.53
• 2024 Set-Up Liquor Licenses for Barn in the Woods Wedding and Event Center, Deer Lake Charlie's LLC, and Wilderness Wedding Barn
• Proposed Pengilly-Calumet Connection ATV Trail sponsorship
• 2025/2026 Annual Road Maintenance Agreements

The Itasca County Board approved the regular agenda and consent agenda items, including a $2,515,063.41 award to Hawkinson Construction for bituminous paving and a $221,536.53 award to Sir Lines‑A‑Lot for pavement markings. The board also approved $985,738.03 in commissioner warrants, a grant proposal to the Blandin Foundation for a county mental‑health court, and a tentative sponsorship for the Pengilly‑Calumet ATV trail. All actions were approved unanimously (4‑0).

• Approved $2,515,063.41 Bituminous Paving Contract to Hawkinson Construction (4‑0)
• Approved $221,536.53 Pavement Markings Contract to Sir Lines‑A‑Lot (4‑0)
• Approved commissioner warrants totaling $985,738.03 (4‑0)
• Approved grant proposal to Blandin Foundation for a mental‑health court (4‑0)
• Approved tentative sponsorship for Pengilly‑Calumet Connection ATV Trail (4‑0)
• Adopted resolution declaring April 13‑19, 2025 National Telecommunicators Week (4‑0)
• Approved out‑of‑state travel for county officials (4‑0)
• Supported IMCare Quality Documents and work plan (4‑0)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The commission will approve the minutes from the March 12, 2025 meeting. It will discuss a conditional use application to operate a carry‑out pizza business in an existing commercial building on Lots 41 & 42, Lakeview Acres, Greenway Township. Two zoning variances will be considered: one for a 16’ × 30’ commercial addition that exceeds the allowable impervious surface, and another for a 14’ × 15’ dwelling addition that does not meet the required setback from the ordinary high water level at South Twin Lake.

• Approve minutes of the 3/12/2025 regular meeting
• Conditional use for a carry‑out pizza business at Lots 41 & 42, Lakeview Acres, Greenway Township (The Great Outdoors Bottle Shop)
• Variance from Section 4.2.6 for a 16’ × 30’ commercial building addition exceeding impervious surface limits at the same lots
• Variance from Sections 4.5.2C and 5.6.7B for a 14’ × 15’ dwelling addition lacking required setback from the OHWL of South Twin Lake
• Adjournment of the Planning Commission and opening of the Board of Adjustment meeting

The Itasca County Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a conditional use permit for Jim & Julie Maddern’s carry‑out pizza business, requiring Best Management Practices during construction. The board also unanimously approved a variance for a 16’ × 30’ commercial building addition that exceeds the allowable impervious surface. A previously filed variance by John Shipka was withdrawn. All agenda and minutes items were approved unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimously)
• Approved minutes of 3/12/2025 hearing (unanimously)
• Approved conditional use permit for carry‑out pizza business with BMP condition (unanimously)
• Approved variance for 16’ × 30’ commercial building addition exceeding impervious surface limit (unanimously)
• Recorded withdrawal of John Shipka variance application

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will consider several public health updates, including the reallocation of a social worker position to a public health nurse. The meeting also includes discussions on opioid settlement funds and a grant application for Healthy Homes.

• Opioid Settlement Funds discussion
• Reallocation of a Social Worker position to a Public Health Nurse position
• Agreement for utility adjustments and a pedestrian crosswalk flasher at CSAH 85 & Hwy 2 in LaPrairie
• LG214 Premises Permit Application for gambling at Trailside Restaurant and Bar in Bigfork
• Easement for Highway right of way for CSAH 7 across three county-owned parcels

The board approved the meeting agenda and minutes, then adopted a consent agenda that included a cooperative construction agreement with MnDOT for utility adjustments and a pedestrian crosswalk flasher system at CSAH 85 & Hwy 2 in LaPrairie. It also approved a $236,230.33 warrant, reallocated one full‑time social‑worker position to a public‑health nurse, authorized a Candidate Conservation Agreement, and approved the Probation Department’s SUPER grant application. All actions were approved by a 3‑to‑0 vote.

• Approved agenda amendment adding Item #6.10 and pulling Item #6.7 (3‑0)
• Approved minutes of the April 1, 2025 session (3‑0)
• Approved consent agenda items including the Cooperative Construction Agreement No 1057484 (3‑0)
• Approved Commissioner warrants for $236,230.33 (3‑0)
• Approved reallocation of 1 FTE Social Worker to 1 FTE Public Health Nurse (3‑0)
• Authorized Transportation Department to enter Candidate Conservation Agreement (3‑0)
• Approved Probation Department application for the SUPER grant (3‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑10 authorizing the County to enter the MnDOT agreement (3‑0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider a consent agenda that includes routine approvals such as collective bargaining agreements for several AFSCME units, an employment offer for a Facilities Manager, a reallocation of an HR position, and the appointment of election judges. The board will also vote on an amendment to MnDOT Agreement No. 1056219 to provide bridge bond funding for SAP 031-670-010 and adopt a resolution concerning the notice and terms of a direct county fee land sale. After the consent items, the regular agenda will cover fringe benefits for the County Assessor, citizen input, a legislative conference call, commissioner warrants, ambulance service bids, technology and reliability project presentations, and other updates before adjourning.

• Approve amendment to MnDOT Agreement No. 1056219 for bridge bond funding for SAP 031-670-010
• Adopt resolution authorizing and fixing notice and terms of direct county fee owned land sale
• Approve collective bargaining agreements for AFSCME Local 1626 Courthouse Unit (2025‑2027)
• Authorize employment offer for Facilities Manager position to Anthony Palkki, Grade 13, Step 5
• Reallocate one Grade 7 Human Resources Assistant position to one Grade 8 HRIS Assistant position

The Itasca County Board approved several items, including a $92,872 salary for the county assessor, $359,306.21 in commissioner warrants, and a bid solicitation for the Nashwauk Ambulance Subordinate Service District. The board also approved a letter opposing Payment in Lieu of Taxes, a reallocation of an HR position, and the appointment of election judges. All actions were approved unanimously with a 3‑to‑0 vote.

• Approved Fringe Benefits for County Assessor, salary $92,872.00 (3-0)
• Approved Commissioner Warrants, $359,306.21, check date April 2, 2025 (3-0)
• Authorized bids for Nashwauk Ambulance Subordinate Service District (3-0)
• Approved Letter in Opposition to Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) and Chair signature (3-0)
• Reallocated one Grade 7 HR Assistant to Grade 8 HRIS Assistant (3-0)
• Offered Facilities Manager position to Anthony Palkki, Grade 13 Step 5 (3-0)
• Approved Mail and Absentee Ballot election judges for April 2025 special elections (3-0)
• Authorized amendment to MnDOT Agreement No. 1056219 for bridge bond funding (3-0)

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will review water management plans for the Little Fork and Big Fork River Watersheds. The meeting includes discussions on a new door FOB security system, a wheelage tax, and an airport haul road lease agreement.

• Airport Haul Road Lease Agreement
• New County Door FOB Security Access System
• Wheelage Tax discussion
• City of Bovey Contract Update
• Little Fork and Big Fork River Watershed Comprehensive Water Management Plans

The Itasca County Board approved the agenda amendment, the March 11 minutes, and the consent agenda, each by a 4‑0 vote. It also approved $1,744,946.52 in commissioner warrants, a $318,800 sidewalk contract, and the 2025‑2027 collective bargaining agreement for the Deputy Sheriff/Road Deputy Unit. Additionally, the board approved funding for the L&M Livestock Pavilion and reallocated a Grade 10 HR position to a Benefits and Leave Specialist.

• Approved agenda amendment adding Item #5.4 (4‑0)
• Approved minutes of March 11, 2025 session (4‑0)
• Approved consent agenda including Item #5.4 (4‑0)
• Approved commissioner warrants for $1,744,946.52 (4‑0)
• Approved $318,800 sidewalk contract to TNT Construction Group (4‑0)
• Approved 2025‑2027 collective bargaining agreement for LELS 493 Deputy Sheriff/Road Deputy Unit (4‑0)
• Approved dedication of Lights in the Pines funds for L&M Livestock Pavilion (4‑0)
• Approved reallocation of HR Grade 10 position to Benefits and Leave Specialist (4‑0)

County Board

The Itasca County Board will approve minutes from the March 11 meeting and consider several consent agenda items, including a letter of commitment for the Northwoods Waters and Community Resilience Collaborative and an amendment to trail sponsorship dates. The board will award a $318,800 contract to TNT Construction Group for the 3rd Street Sidewalk Connection. Additional regular agenda items cover citizen input, a legislative conference call, commissioner warrants, a power update, and proposals for a livestock pavilion and third‑floor remodel.

• Approve Letter of Commitment for Northwoods Waters and Community Resilience Collaborative supporting ARDC grant submittal
• Award contract to TNT Construction Group, LLC for 3rd Street Sidewalk Connection, $318,800
• Amend trail sponsorship motion to extend dates to June 30, 2026
• Discuss Lights in the Pines 2024/L&M Livestock Pavilion Proposal
• Review remodel options for the third floor

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will meet to consider a conditional use permit for a temporary borrow pit and a zoning variance for a garage relocation. These decisions determine whether specific land-use requests meet county ordinances.

• Conditional Use Permit for a temporary borrow pit within 1000’ of Lawrence Lake (Thomas Gustafson/Kern & Tabery Inc)
• Variance request for a 23’x21’ garage setback from the centerline of S Gama Beach Rd (Charles & Shelly Haben)

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority will meet to review minutes from February 11. The body will discuss two crossing agreements regarding a sewer piping box culvert and an electrical box culvert.

• Sewer Piping Box Culvert Crossing Agreement
• Electrical Box Culvert Crossing Agreement

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will consider a five-year highway improvement plan and the use of unorganized township funds for those projects. The meeting includes decisions on a tobacco license and a pay grade change for the county Assessor.

• Adoption of the Five-Year Plan for Highway Improvement Projects
• Pay grade increase from Grade 14 to Grade 15 for the county Assessor
• Tobacco License for Powell Enterprises Inc (Kocians IGA) at 402 Rajala Rd, Bigfork
• Contract between IMCare and Garden Court, LLC dba Garden Court Chateau
• Cooperative Road Maintenance Agreement with the City of Nashwauk

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider approving a construction agreement with the City of Grand Rapids and discuss options for a county assessor position. The meeting also includes a legislative conference call and a proposal for a Safe Exchange Zone at the courthouse.

• Approve Cooperative Construction Agreement with City of Grand Rapids for 7th Ave SE / CSAH 96 bituminous project
• Discuss County Assessor Position Options
• Review CEDA Contract/Update
• Consider Safe Exchange Zone at Itasca County Courthouse
• Celebrate 250th Semi-quincentennial Birthday of United States

County Board

The meeting includes routine items on the consent agenda and updates from county staff. Commissioners will hear a public hearing regarding the County Subordinate Service District for the Nashwauk Ambulance Primary Service Area. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture will present on spongy moth management in the county. A closed‑session will address labor negotiations.

• Adopt resolution authorizing and fixing notice and terms of tax‑forfeited land sale (Consent Agenda)
• Public Hearing RE: County Subordinate Service District for Nashwauk Ambulance Primary Service Area
• County Based Purchasing (IMCare) Division update/presentation
• Minnesota Department of Agriculture presentation on spongy moth management in Itasca County
• Closed session on labor negotiations

County Board

The board will consider routine consent‑agenda items, including a $21,269.60 tree‑planting contract and a $58,615.00 site‑preparation contract, and will hold a public hearing on a zoning ordinance text amendment submitted by Jim Maddern for The Great Outdoors Bottle Shop & Bait. Additional agenda items include watershed management updates, a 2025/2026 Upper Mississippi‑Grand Rapids Watershed Implementation Budget Workplan, and scheduling the 2025 County Board of Appeal and Equalization. The meeting also includes citizen input, a legislative conference call, commissioner warrants, and administrator and committee reports.

• Approve Letter of Support to Minnesota North College for an IRRR grant for a Cannabis Training Program
• Award 2025 Tree Planting Contract to Great Lakes Forestry, LLC – $21,269.60 from Forest Resource Fund 12
• Award 2025 Site Preparation Contract to Future Forests Inc. – $58,615.00 from Forest Resources Fund 12
• Public hearing on zoning ordinance text amendment for The Great Outdoors Bottle Shop & Bait
• Adopt resolution for Itasca Driftskippers Snowmobile Club Federal Recreational Trails Program Grant Application

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Itasca County Planning Commission will meet to approve minutes and consider a text amendment to the Zoning Ordinance regarding conditional uses in the Shoreland Overlay District. The proposed change would allow eating establishments on non-riparian parcels, provided they are not within 400 feet of the Ordinary High Water Level.

• Approval of minutes from 12/11/2024 Regular Meeting
• Text amendment to allow eating establishments in Shoreland Overlay District
• Conditional use would require establishment to be 400' from OHWL

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority will first consider approval of the minutes from its January 14, 2025 regular session. It will then hold an informational discussion about the Mesabi Trail reconstruction project between Kelly Lake and Keewatin, presented by Sara Thompson. The meeting is scheduled for 2:00 PM on February 11, 2025 in the county boardroom.

• Approve minutes of the Tuesday, January 14, 2025 Regional Railroad Authority regular session
• Informational discussion on the Mesabi Trail reconstruction from Kelly Lake to Keewatin (presented by Sara Thompson)
• Call to order and agenda additions/corrections

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will conduct a public hearing regarding the adoption of a Floodplain Ordinance. Other business includes reviewing a 5 Year Plan and approving various contracts and licenses.

• Public hearing on the adoption of a Floodplain Ordinance
• Rent concession for one classroom not to exceed $6,552.00
• Liquor and Sunday Sales licenses for Trailside Restaurant and Bar at 29314 County Road 52
• Sponsor Agreement with the City of Cohasset for the 2025 Safe Routes to School Project
• Contract between Itasca County Sheriff's Office and the City of Bovey

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will vote on several infrastructure agreements and a major road surfacing contract. The board will also discuss the County Assessor business model, handicap parking changes, and Chief Deputy Sheriff compensation.

• Contract 60730 for C.S.A.H. 7 Grading & Bituminous Surfacing to Kern and Tabery, Inc. for $6,428,624.39
• Mn/DOT Agreement No.1055875 and No.1056219 for bridge funding
• Service agreement with IWORQ for permitting software
• Lawron Trail Riders Snowmobile Club Federal Recreational Trails Program Grant Application
• Proposed handicap parking changes

County Board

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet to review several administrative items and contracts. Key discussions include the county assessor's business model and royalty rates for materials from tax-forfeited lands.

• 2025 CEDA Contract
• Revised Canisteo Mine Pit Outlet Lease
• Royalty Rates for earthen materials from Tax-Forfeited Trust Lands
• County Assessor Business Model
• Commissioner and ICHHS Warrants

County Board

The Itasca County Board will review a consent agenda that includes a resignation, a resolution to sell about 5.2 acres of tax‑forfeited trust land to the Swampsiders Snowmobile and ATV Club, and a road easement over tax‑forfeited land. The regular agenda covers citizen input, commissioner warrants, updates, a public hearing schedule, a county aid funds resolution, a lease for an AIS station at Sherry's Arm, and an out‑of‑state travel request. A closed‑session will address labor negotiations.

• Accept resignation of Sarah Carling from the Park and Recreation Commission (At‑Large).
• Resolution to sell ~5.2 acres of tax‑forfeited land (SW SE, Section 15, Township 59N, Range 24W) to Swampsiders Snowmobile and ATV Club.
• Approve road easement for public use over tax‑forfeited land in Section 13, Township 55N, Range 26W.
• County State Aid Funds Advance Resolution.
• Lease for AIS Station at Sherry's Arm Public Water Access.

Regional Railroad Authority

The Itasca County Regional Railroad Authority will meet to elect officers, approve minutes from November and December 2024, and discuss a private crossing agreement for the MES Building.

• Election of officers
• Approval of November 12, 2024 minutes
• Approval of December 12, 2024 special session minutes
• Discussion of Private Crossing Agreement - MES Building
• Next meeting scheduled for February 11, 2025

County Board

The Board of Commissioners will discuss setting the 2025 solid waste assessment and a public health position request. The meeting also includes approvals for several service contracts and a performance grant for emergency management.

• Setting the 2025 Solid Waste Assessment
• Contract with PowerDMS by NEOGOV for $14,894.00
• TriMin Support service agreement for 2025
• Itasca County Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG)
• Public Health position request

County Board

The Itasca County Board will consider routine items on a consent agenda, including approval of a Voter Fund Agreement and a reduced insurance requirement for IMCare administrative contracts. The insurance limits will be set at $1,000,000 per occurrence and $3,000,000 aggregate. The regular agenda includes citizen input, bids for legal printing, an annual delegation for electronic funds transfers, commissioner and ICHHS warrants, and appointments to committees and boards.

• Approve Voter Fund Agreement
• Approve reduced insurance requirement: $1,000,000 per occurrence, $3,000,000 aggregate for IMCare contracts
• Review bids for legal printing
• Annual delegation for electronic funds transfers
• Commissioner warrants and ICHHS warrants