Mille Lacs County public meetings in 2021

County Board

The board unanimously approved the 2022 budget and levy, which includes a 16.1% levy increase and a $1.46 million fund balance replenishment. They also approved a memorandum of understanding with LELS regarding vacation hour carryover, a 2022 DAC cleaning contract, and a 2022-2024 Extension MOA. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 2022 Budget and Levy with 16.1% levy increase (unanimous)
• Approved MOU with LELS on vacation hour carryover (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 DAC Cleaning Contract (unanimous)
• Approved 2022-2024 Extension MOA (unanimous)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board unanimously approved the 2022 elected official salaries and commissioner compensation, the 2022 fee schedule after a public hearing, and several grants including a $900 BCBS donation and a Benton Telecommunication grant. They also approved a partial payment for the C.D. #2 repair project with one abstention, and scheduled a special board meeting for 12/30/2021.

• Adopted Resolution No. 12-21-21-03 establishing 2022 elected official salaries (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 12-21-21-04 establishing 2022 commissioner compensation and per diem rates (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 Mille Lacs County Fee Schedule after public hearing (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of $900 donation from BCBS for N95 fit testing (unanimous)
• Approved Benton Telecommunication Grant (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 AIS Prevention Aid Resolution (unanimous)
• Approved BWSR Grant Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved C.D. #2 Repair Project Partial Payment (4-0, one abstention)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board approved participation in the Minnesota Opioids State-Subdivision Memorandum of Agreement, along with several contracts including jail medical, phone, and RFID services, and various 2022 agreements. The board also approved a snow removal contract for three winter seasons with a split vote, and a County Ditch 2 GO Bond with one abstention. A public hearing on the 2022 budget and truth in taxation was held, with comments from residents.

• Approved resolution 12-07-21-03 authorizing county participation in the Minnesota Opioids State-Subdivision Memorandum of Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved tax-forfeited property repurchase request (unanimous)
• Approved Advance Correctional Healthcare Inc. for jail inmate medical (unanimous)
• Approved Securus Technologies for inmate phones (unanimous)
• Approved Jail Guardian RFID contract (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 Tri-Cap Volunteer Driver Contract (unanimous)
• Approved snow removal contract for 2022-2025 winter seasons (3-2, Wilhelm and Oslin nay)
• Approved County Ditch 2 GO Bond Series 2021B (unanimous, Wilhelm abstaining)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board unanimously approved several administrative and public safety items, including using forfeiture funds to outfit squad cars, revised position descriptions for the historic courthouse restructure, and a voting equipment grant application. All votes were unanimous by roll call.

• Approved outfitting squad cars with forfeiture funds (unanimous)
• Approved revised position descriptions for historic courthouse restructure and authorized filling positions (unanimous)
• Approved revised Veterans Services Officer and new Assistant Veterans Services Officer position descriptions, authorized posting/filling (unanimous)
• Approved MOA with Teamsters regarding 911 communications specialists schedule (unanimous)
• Approved filling office support specialist vacancy (unanimous)
• Approved application to MN Secretary of State voting equipment grant program (unanimous)
• Approved criminal justice data network agreement renewals (unanimous)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board approved revisions to the Solid Waste Ordinance, increasing the parcel fee from $10 to $15, despite public opposition. The board also approved a rezoning request by Brent Woolhouse (Grove Company), a MNDOT professional and technical services contract, filling a social worker position and a veterans service officer vacancy, and scheduling a special board meeting and a public hearing on the county fee schedule. The meeting was closed for litigation strategy discussion regarding a federal lawsuit.

• Approved Solid Waste Ordinance revisions increasing parcel fee from $10 to $15 (5-0)
• Approved rezoning request by Brent Woolhouse (Grove Company) (5-0)
• Approved MNDOT Professional and Technical Services Contract (5-0)
• Approved filling Social Worker position (5-0)
• Approved filling Veterans Service Officer vacancy (5-0)
• Scheduled Special Board Meeting for 11/30/2021 at 9:00 a.m. (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing on county fee schedule for 12/21/2021 at 9:00 a.m. (5-0)
• Closed meeting to discuss litigation strategy in federal lawsuit (5-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board unanimously accepted the resignation of County Assessor Daryl Moeller, effective December 1, 2021. The board also approved the consent agenda, which included items such as 2022 burial rates, a legal services payment, and a jail food service agreement amendment. Several agenda items were removed, including approval of jail inmate medical, phone, and RFID contracts. The board approved various other items, including well sealing quotes, a family home visiting agreement with the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, a COVID-19 test non-disclosure agreement, a letter of support for a City of Isle grant, a private crossing on County Ditch 2, filling two positions, and a snow removal contract.

• Accepted resignation of County Assessor Daryl Moeller effective 12/01/2021 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including 2022 burial rates, legal services payment, and jail food service amendment (unanimous)
• Approved well sealing quotes (unanimous)
• Approved Family Home Visiting Fiscal Host Agreement with Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe (unanimous)
• Approved COVID-19 Test Mutual Non-Disclosure Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Letter of Support for City of Isle Federal EDA Grant Application (unanimous)
• Approved Private Crossing Construction on County Ditch 2 (unanimous)
• Approved filling Public Health Nurse and Social Worker positions (unanimous)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board approved a consent agenda including warrants of $347,639.22 and legal service payments, plus several resolutions and contracts. These included a County Ditch 2 reimbursement bond, tax-forfeited land repurchases, a sheriff's squad order, an MDVA cooperation agreement, and a family home visiting fiscal host agreement. The board also scheduled a Truth in Taxation hearing and approved 2022 non-union insurance rates.

• Approved consent agenda including $347,639.22 in warrants (unanimous)
• Approved Family Home Visiting Fiscal Host Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 10-19-2021-01: County Ditch 2 Reimbursement Bond (4-0, Wilhelm abstained)
• Approved Tax-Forfeited Land Repurchase Applications (unanimous)
• Approved Sheriff's Office squad order for 2022 via Enterprise Leasing (unanimous)
• Approved MDVA Cooperation Agreement (unanimous)
• Scheduled Truth in Taxation hearing for 12/7/2021 at 7:00 p.m. (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 non-union employee insurance rates (unanimous)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board unanimously approved a revised Community Health Services Supervisor position description, appointed Kristine Klopp as CHS Administrator, renewed the East Central Regional Secure Juvenile Detention Facility JPA, adopted a tobacco ordinance and license, and approved a professional services agreement with WSB. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved revised Community Health Services Supervisor position description (unanimous)
• Approved MNA MOA appointing Kristine Klopp as CHS Administrator (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of East Central Regional Secure Juvenile Detention Facility JPA (unanimous)
• Approved tobacco ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved tobacco license (unanimous)
• Approved professional services agreement with WSB (unanimous)

County Board

The board adopted Resolution No. 09-29-2021-01, approving the 2022 preliminary maximum levy of $22,339,589, a 24.5% increase over the current year. The vote was 4-1, with Commissioner Wilhelm dissenting. The board also tabled a supplemental agreement for professional services on the CSAH 2 project until the October 5, 2021 meeting, following a recommendation from the County Attorney's Office not to approve it at this time.

• Approved 2022 preliminary maximum levy of $22,339,589 (4-1)
• Tabled supplemental agreement for CSAH 2 project until 10/05/2021

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board approved the classification/compensation study results, filled a vacant Office Support Specialist position, and authorized filling the Land Services Director vacancy. They also set a special meeting for September 29, 2021, to set the preliminary levy, and approved several public works items including equipment purchases and a gravel crushing contract. The revised tobacco ordinance was tabled to mirror state law.

• Approved classification/compensation study results (5-0)
• Approved filling Office Support Specialist vacancy in Community & Veterans Services (5-0)
• Approved revised Land Services Director position description and authorized filling vacancy (5-0)
• Set special board meeting for Sept 29, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. to set preliminary levy (5-0)
• Approved demolition of tax-forfeited property at 35647 125th Ave, Onamia (5-0)
• Tabled revised tobacco ordinance to mirror state ordinance (5-0)
• Approved use of LOST funds for 2021 public works equipment and future snowplow purchases (5-0)
• Approved CRRSAA funds for purchase of new CAT 938M front end loader (5-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board approved a forward refunding of the 2014 bond issue, expected to save the county approximately $190,000 through 2029. The board also approved a tobacco ordinance public hearing, but discussion led to a recommendation to remove the flavored tobacco restriction and adopt state language. Other actions included approving fundraising for the K-9 unit, accepting the County Engineer's resignation, and approving a conditional use permit for Milo Township.

• Approved forward refunding of 2014 bond (Resolution No. 09-07-2021-02), saving ~$190,000
• Held public hearing on tobacco ordinance; recommended removing flavored tobacco ban and adopting state language
• Approved fundraising for Sheriff's Office K-9 unit
• Approved disposal of outdated Sheriff's Office equipment
• Approved reclassification of Administrative Office Support Specialist to Employee Relations Specialist with 3% pay increase
• Approved County Coordinator Employment Agreement with salary of $3,923.20 per pay period
• Accepted resignation of County Engineer Neal Knopik and authorized posting the vacancy
• Approved Milo Township Conditional Use Permit for a town hall

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board is holding a special meeting with morning and afternoon work sessions. They will conduct interviews for the County Coordinator position and discuss several operational items, including a potential local sales tax for a Public Works building, tobacco ordinance revisions, and removal of a historic courthouse elm tree.

• Interview candidates for County Coordinator position
• Discuss process for special legislation to fund Public Works building with local sales tax
• Review proposed tobacco ordinance revisions
• Review proposals to remove Historic Courthouse elm tree
• Discuss dog ordinance and bonding

The County Board interviewed two finalists for County Coordinator and voted 3-2 to appoint Dillon Hayes, effective 8/28/2021. The meeting was otherwise procedural, covering only the interviews and the appointment.

• Appointed Dillon Hayes as County Coordinator effective 8/28/2021 (3-2)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board is holding its regular meeting with a morning work session on the assistant county engineer position and watershed issues. The main agenda includes decisions on a Tyler Technologies contract amendment, a road closure, a firearm upgrade, and several housing and veterans service agreements, plus a request for American Rescue Plan funding.

• Consider Resolution No. 08-03-2021-01, Annual County Veterans Service Operational Enhancement Grants
• Consider Tyler Technologies Munis Contract Amendment
• Authorize Closure of County Road 36 in Milaca on September 25
• Approval of Sheriff's Office Firearm Upgrade/Trade In
• Request for American Rescue Plan Funding from the Mille Lacs County Attorney's Office

The Mille Lacs County Board approved a veterans service grant, a road crossing bid, and a sheriff's office firearm upgrade. A proposal to recruit an assistant county engineer was denied. A request for American Rescue Plan funding was tabled for committee review.

• Adopted Resolution 08-03-2021-01 accepting County Veterans Service Operational Enhancement Grant (5-0)
• Approved Purchase of Service and Housing Support Agreement for new adult foster care provider Donna Collings (5-0)
• Approved Housing Support Agreement for Project Forward, Inc. (5-0)
• Approved Tyler Technologies Munis Contract Amendment pending County Attorney approval (5-0)
• Awarded Bid Alternate 1 for County Road crossings of County Ditch 2 to Land Pride Construction, LLC (4-0, Wilhelm abstained)
• Approved renewal of Auto Theft Grant with MN Dept of Commerce (5-0)
• Approved closure of County Road 36 in Milaca on September 25, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved Sheriff's Office Firearm Upgrade/Trade In (5-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board is meeting to consider a range of administrative and operational items, including approving tobacco licenses, a bridge inspection contract, and several staff position reclassifications. The board will also vote on a resolution to sponsor area snowmobile/ATV trails and authorize soliciting quotes for drainage ditch maintenance.

• Approve Tobacco Licenses
• Consider Bridge Inspection Contract
• Authorize Staff to Solicit Quotes for Maintenance of County Drainage Ditches
• Consider Reclassification of WIC Coordinator to CHS Administrator
• Approve Resolution No. 07-20-2021-02, Approving County Sponsorship of Area Snowmobile/ATV Trails

The Mille Lacs County Board approved a resolution to increase the wheelage tax from $10 to $20 per vehicle for 2022 and subsequent years, with Commissioner Tellinghuisen voting against. The board also appointed Dillon Hayes as County Auditor-Treasurer, approved a $17,288 bridge inspection contract with Erickson Engineering, and awarded a bid to Land Pride Construction for County Ditch 2 repairs. All other agenda items, including tobacco licenses, a third patrol sergeant promotion, and a $66,304.36 coronavirus emergency response grant, were approved unanimously.

• Approved wheelage tax increase from $10 to $20 (4-1)
• Appointed Dillon Hayes as County Auditor-Treasurer effective July 23, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved $17,288 bridge inspection contract with Erickson Engineering (5-0)
• Awarded County Ditch 2 repair bid to Land Pride Construction (5-0)
• Approved 2021 Coronavirus Emergency Response Grant of $66,304.36 (5-0)
• Approved internal promotion of 3rd Patrol Sergeant (5-0)
• Reappointed Taylor Tollefson as County Veterans Service Officer for 4-year term (5-0)
• Approved reclassification of WIC Coordinator to CHS Administrator (5-0)

General

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold a public hearing and consider adopting changes to the subsurface sewage treatment systems (SSTS) ordinance, award a bid for County Ditch 2 repair, and appoint a county recorder. The consent agenda includes routine approvals such as meeting minutes, warrants, licenses, and the auction of firearms and squad cars.

• Public hearing and adoption of SSTS ordinance changes
• Award bid and services agreement for County Ditch 2 repair
• Resolution 07-06-2021-01 to appoint a County Recorder
• Approve auction of firearms and ammo from Sheriff's Office evidence room
• Approve sale/auction of retired squad cars

The board adopted changes to the Subsurface Sewage Treatment System (SSTS) ordinance after a public hearing, and tabled the bid award for County Ditch 2 repair until July 20. It also approved a service agreement for ditch construction management, appointed a new County Recorder, and approved several routine items.

• Adopted SSTS ordinance changes (5-0)
• Tabled County Ditch 2 repair bid until 07/20/2021 (4-1)
• Approved $48,500 service agreement with Houston Engineering for County Ditch 2 repair (5-0)
• Appointed Brandon Reinking as County Recorder (5-0)
• Approved soliciting concrete proposals (5-0)
• Approved $815.01 standing desk equipment purchase (4-1)
• Approved consent agenda including $301,867.55 warrants and $112,095.39 legal services payment (5-0)
• Approved charitable gambling permit for Milaca Firefighters Relief Association (5-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board is holding a work session to hear updates from multiple departments, including Technology Services, the County Attorney's Office, Land Services, Public Works, Extension, the Sheriff's Office, Community and Veterans Services, Facilities, and Administrative Services. Items include a COVID-19 dashboard, a state grant notification, a paramedic agreement with North Memorial Health, a proposed victim resource room budget, and various facility repairs. The agenda is informational and no formal votes are listed.

• COVID-19 Dashboard update from Technology Services
• Department of Public Safety grant notification regarding potential suspension of state contract performance
• North Memorial Health Community Paramedic Agreement discussion
• Victim Resource Room proposed budget of $4,985
• Historic Courthouse ceiling and campus sidewalk repairs

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold its regular meeting on June 15, 2021, covering a consent agenda and several regular agenda items. Key actions include approving a boat and water safety grant, considering a variance for a road construction match, and reviewing contracts for pavement coatings and a grading project. The board will also act on liquor, beer, wine, and tobacco licenses, and discuss a civic clerk agenda management system.

• Accept Annual County Boat and Water Safety Grant in the amount of $9,785.00
• Consider Revised Resolution to Approve Variance for Match Portion of the Reduced Conflict Intersection Construction
• Consider Reflectorized Pavement Coatings Contract
• Consider PWD Resolution No. 2021-6-15-21-12 to Accept 101 Grading, Base, and Bituminous Surfacing Project
• Approve Liquor, Beer, & Wine Licenses and Tobacco Licenses

The Mille Lacs County Board approved a settlement agreement for the County Ditch 4 landowner dispute after a closed session, and authorized the closure of County Road 1 in Bock for July 4, 2021. The board also approved a variance for state aid funds to cover the local match for the Reduced Conflict Intersection project, a contract with AAA Striping Services for pavement coatings, and a retainer agreement for legal services. All votes were unanimous except for the acceptance of the 101 Grading project, which passed 4-1 with Commissioner Peterson voting nay.

• Approved settlement agreement for County Ditch 4 (CD4) landowner dispute.
• Authorized closure of County Road 1 in Bock on July 4, 2021.
• Adopted resolution requesting variance for state aid funds to cover $308,047.16 local match for RCI project.
• Approved Reflectorized Pavement Coatings Contract with AAA Striping Services for $95,233.35.
• Adopted resolution accepting 101 Grading, Base, and Bituminous Surfacing Project (final cost $3,433,086.67).
• Approved retainer agreement for legal services with Rupp, Anderson, Squires & Waldspurger, P.A. for $5,000.
• Approved Civic Clerk Agenda Management System for $7,328, funded by ARP.
• Approved liquor, beer, wine, and tobacco licenses for multiple establishments.

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board is holding a work session to discuss several administrative and financial items, including a county/tribe MOU, a fund balance report, and the creation of a committee to recommend how to invest an anticipated $6.1 million in American Rescue Plan funds. They will also review the Economic Relief Loan program, consider reclassifying a staff position, and discuss various policies. The agenda is a mix of discussion items and potential decisions, with no formal votes scheduled.

• Creation of American Rescue Plan committee to draft recommendation for investment of anticipated $6.1m in ARP funds
• Review of MLC Economic Relief Loan program
• Consider revising Asst County Administrator/Personnel Director position to Personnel Director, reclassifying Karly Fetters effective June 19
• Review of Fund Balance Policy and possible transfer of funds from CVS to General/Revenue fund
• Discussion of county/tribe MOU

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold its regular meeting on June 1, 2021, covering a consent agenda with routine approvals and a regular agenda with items such as liquor licenses, acceptance of the County Auditor-Treasurer's resignation, transfer of county administrator duties, purchase of picnic tables, and a labor agreement with Local Union No. 70. The meeting also includes a work session on committee appointments and a contract addendum for the Mille Lacs Academy.

• Approve liquor, beer, and wine licenses
• Accept resignation of County Auditor-Treasurer
• Transfer County Administrator responsibilities to County Coordinator
• Approve purchase of picnic tables allotted by SHIP Grant
• Approve labor agreement with Local Union No. 70

The Mille Lacs County Board approved transferring all County Administrator responsibilities to the County Coordinator, with Commissioner Peterson voting against. The board also approved a one-year labor agreement with Local Union No. 70, accepted the County Auditor-Treasurer's resignation, and approved liquor licenses for four establishments. A motion to table a postcard printing request failed, but a revised version was approved.

• Approved transfer of County Administrator responsibilities to County Coordinator (4-1)
• Approved 2021 Labor Agreement with Local Union No. 70 (5-0)
• Accepted resignation of County Auditor-Treasurer in good standing (5-0)
• Approved liquor, beer, and wine licenses for Da Boathouse, Eddy's Resort, Gateway Liquor, and Bayview Bar & Grill (5-0)
• Approved purchase of two picnic tables with $1,900 SHIP grant (5-0)
• Approved addendum to 2021 Mille Lacs Academy Host County Contract (5-0)
• Approved postcard printing and postage from Minutemen with improvements (3-2)
• Approved consent agenda including $115,074.28 legal services payment and two property tax abatements (5-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board is holding an emergency meeting to consider appointing Lisa Herges as interim County Coordinator after Holly Wilson declined the position. The board will also vote on a resolution and employment agreement setting the terms, including a part-time schedule of about 16 hours per week at $60 per hour.

• Resolution No. 05-21-2021-01 appointing Lisa Herges as Interim County Coordinator
• Employment agreement with $60/hour pay, part-time, at-will, ending by calendar year end
• County Coordinator position description attached as Exhibit A
• Background: County abandoned County Administrator Plan on May 18, 2021

The Mille Lacs County Board held a brief emergency meeting and unanimously adopted Resolution No. 05-21-2021-01, appointing Lisa Herges as Interim County Coordinator. The board approved the resolution and employment agreement with a 5-0 roll call vote, then adjourned.

• Adopted Resolution No. 05-21-2021-01 appointing Lisa Herges as Interim County Coordinator (5-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold a regular meeting with a work session, consent agenda, and regular agenda. Key items include considering a resolution to abandon the county administrator plan of government, reviewing the county coordinator position description, and reappointing the county engineer. The board will also hear an annual presentation from Central MN Jobs & Training Services and consider several road and facility projects.

• Consider Resolution No. 05-18-21-01 to authorize sponsorship of OHM Trails
• Approve bid for SAP 048-616-014 (CSAH 16 Box Culvert)
• Consider replacing South Fleet Parking Lot and repair fence
• Approve liquor, beer & wine licenses
• Authorize advertisement for bids for repair of County Ditch 2

The board adopted Resolution 05-18-2021-02 (Resolution B) to abandon the County Administrator plan of government and move to a County Coordinator plan, with Commissioner Peterson voting nay. The board also approved the County Coordinator position description (4-1), reappointed the County Engineer, and approved several other items including a road project bid, liquor licenses, and a fence replacement. The road closure for the Rum River Festival was tabled due to a date discrepancy.

• Adopted Resolution 05-18-2021-02 abandoning County Administrator plan (4-1)
• Approved County Coordinator position description (4-1)
• Awarded SAP 048-616-014 (CSAH 16 Box Culvert) to Houle Excavating, LLC (5-0)
• Approved replacing South Fleet Parking Lot fence and repairing fence (5-0)
• Approved Liquor, Beer & Wine Licenses (5-0)
• Reappointed County Engineer pursuant to MN Statute 163.07 (4-1)
• Approved revised County Auditor-Treasurer position description (5-0)
• Tabled closure of County Roads 29 & 31 in Princeton (5-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board is holding a special meeting to consider two items: a County Coordinator position description and a resolution to abandon the County Administrator Plan of Government. The agenda also includes routine consent items such as approving warrants, minutes, and legal services payment.

• Consider County Coordinator Position Description
• Consider Resolution No. 05-11-2021-01 Abandoning County Administrator Plan of Government
• Approve Payment to Counsel for Legal Services
• Review Auditor's Warrants
• Approve 4/20/2021 County Board Meeting Minutes

The Mille Lacs County Board tabled the County Coordinator position description and a related resolution to abandon the County Administrator plan of government, both until the May 18, 2021 meeting. The board also approved the consent agenda, including warrants, meeting minutes, and legal services payment. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved consent agenda including Auditor's Warrants, 4/20/2021 minutes, and legal services payment (5-0)
• Tabled County Coordinator Position Description until 5/18/2021 (3-2)
• Tabled Resolution No. 05-11-2021-01, Abandoning County Administrator Plan of Government until 5/18/2021 (4-1)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board is meeting to handle routine business including consent agenda items, several regular agenda items such as reappointing the County Engineer, approving personnel policy revisions, purchasing exercise equipment, and awarding a road construction bid. The board will also consider a closed session to discuss tribal litigation.

• Reappointment of County Engineer pursuant to Minnesota Statute 163.07
• Approve revisions to Personnel Policy
• Purchase of portable exercise equipment allotted by SHIP Grant
• Award bid for SAP 048-614-004 (CSAH 14)
• Closed session to discuss tribal litigation

The board approved a settlement proposal for the CR 101 project closeout, assessing 4 days of liquidated damages totaling $10,000, after an earlier motion to follow the engineer's recommendation failed. The board also approved several other items, including a road construction bid, a professional services agreement, and a special meeting. A closed session was held to discuss tribal litigation.

• Approved CR 101 closeout settlement with 4 days liquidated damages ($10,000) (5-0)
• Awarded bid for SAP 048-614-004 (CSAH 14) to Hillman Construction (5-0)
• Authorized professional services agreement for CSAH 14 with WSB (4-1)
• Approved revisions to personnel policy (5-0)
• Approved purchase of portable exercise equipment via SHIP Grant (5-0)
• Scheduled special county board meeting for May 11, 2021 at 8:00 a.m. (5-0)
• Approved proposal for Vetter Johnson Architect Services (5-0)
• Approved UniTrends Backup Enterprise Plus License (5-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold a regular meeting to consider consent agenda items, including approvals for legal services payments, gambling permits, and a jail property room expander purchase. The regular agenda includes extending a partnership agreement with MnDOT for CSAH 8, paying a tree removal contract, and revising several position descriptions. A work session will cover reports and policy discussions.

• Consider extending MnDOT CSAH 8 Partnership Agreement #1003117A02
• Consider payment due for County Ditch 4 tree removal contract
• Consider revised County Auditor-Treasurer, Land Services Director, County Recorder, and County Surveyor position descriptions
• Consider child care variance policy and MDH COVID grant
• Consider gambling permits for Rum River Sno Riders and Wheelhouse Warriors

The Mille Lacs County Board approved a consent agenda, extended a MnDOT partnership agreement for CSAH 8 by three years, and approved a $238,704.43 payment for the County Ditch 4 tree removal contract with a $12,500 holdback. The board also approved revised position descriptions for several county roles and awarded a low bid for mowing tax-forfeited property. All votes were unanimous except for the County Ditch 4 payment, which passed 4-1.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes, warrants, legal payments, and various permits (5-0)
• Extended MnDOT CSAH 8 Partnership Agreement #1003117A02 for three years (5-0)
• Approved County Ditch 4 tree removal contract payment of $238,704.43 with $12,500 holdback (4-1)
• Approved revised County Auditor-Treasurer position description (5-0)
• Approved Land Services Director/Land Commissioner position description with reclassification (5-0)
• Approved County Recorder/Land Services Specialist position description and proceed with hire (5-0)
• Approved revised County Surveyor position description (5-0)
• Awarded low bid for mowing of tax-forfeited property (5-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will consider approving an executive recruitment process to fill the County Administrator vacancy, authorizing staff to solicit quotes for maintenance of tax-forfeited property, extending the plowing agreement with Crow Wing County, and approving a variance for the reduced conflict intersection construction. The consent agenda includes routine approvals such as meeting minutes, auditor's warrants, payments, and various contracts and reports.

• Approve executive recruitment process to fill County Administrator vacancy
• Authorize staff to solicit quotes for maintenance of tax-forfeited property
• Consider extending Mille Lacs and Crow Wing County plowing agreement
• Consider Resolution PWD 2021-4-6-21-11, approve variance for match portion of reduced conflict intersection construction
• Consider renewal of Lumen Viper System maintenance contract

The board voted 3-2 to recruit a County Coordinator to fill the County Administrator vacancy, after a presentation on the differences between the two positions. The board also approved several items, including a variance to use state aid funds for the county's match on Reduced Conflict Intersection construction, a charitable gambling permit for Ducks Unlimited, and a repurchase application for a tax-forfeited parcel. Payments for legal services and a County Ditch 4 tree removal contract were tabled for further discussion.

• Approved recruiting a County Coordinator for the County Administrator vacancy (3-2 vote).
• Approved Resolution PWD 2021-4-6-21-11, allowing use of state aid funds for the ~$83,000 match for Reduced Conflict Intersection construction.
• Approved Resolution No. 04-06-2021-01, granting a charitable gambling permit to Ducks Unlimited for a raffle on May 1, 2021.
• Approved Resolution No. 04-06-2021-02, approving the repurchase of tax-forfeited parcel 15-024-0100.
• Tabled payment for legal services to discuss the timeline for paying attorney fees.
• Tabled payment on the County Ditch 4 tree removal contract; staff will meet with the landowner and contractor.
• Approved the Voluntary Resignation section of the Personnel Policy, tabling other proposed changes.
• Approved the Westlaw Renewal Agreement for 2021.

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold a public hearing on the Sheriff's Office drone program and consider several resolutions, including establishing planning boundaries for watershed projects and supporting a Mississippi River St. Cloud watershed plan. The board will also consider jail plumbing and floor repairs, a maintenance agreement for power quality solutions, and an agreement for executive recruitment services.

• Public hearing on Sheriff's Office drone program
• Consider jail plumbing and floor repair
• Consider 2021 Quality Power Solutions maintenance agreement and battery replacement proposal
• Consider resolutions for Mississippi River watershed planning boundaries and support
• Consider Highway 169 letter of support

The Mille Lacs County Board denied two resolutions related to watershed planning boundaries for the Mississippi River Sartell and St. Cloud watersheds. The board also approved several operational items, including jail repairs, a maintenance agreement, a letter of support for Highway 169, and executive recruitment services. A plowing agreement with Crow Wing County was tabled until April 6, 2021.

• Denied Resolution 03-16-2021-02, planning boundary establishment for 1W1P programs (5-0)
• Denied Resolution 03-16-2021-03, support for Mississippi River St. Cloud watershed project (5-0)
• Approved jail plumbing and floor repair quotes from St. Cloud Refrigeration and Beckers Flooring (5-0)
• Approved 2021 Quality Power Solutions Maintenance Agreement and battery replacement (5-0)
• Approved Highway 169 letter of support (5-0)
• Approved Baker Tilly Agreement for Executive Recruitment Services (4-1)
• Tabled Mille Lacs and Crow Wing County plowing agreement until April 6, 2021 (4-1)
• Authorized County Board Chair to sign letter to Attorney General Ellison (5-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold its regular meeting on March 2, 2021, with a consent agenda and several regular agenda items. They will consider pandemic economic relief grant applications, a penalty and interest abatement for Allstar Childcare, a kennel license public hearing, a conditional use permit for a home occupation, and appointments for Drainage Inspector and County Recorder. The meeting also includes a work session with reports on COVID-19, stakeholder presentations, and department updates.

• Consider Mille Lacs County Pandemic Economic Relief Grant Applications
• Conduct Public Hearing for Kennel License Application, Susan & Jay Kenady
• Consider Conditional Use Permit by Stephan Davy for a Home Occupation
• Consider Resolution No. 03-02-2021-01, Appoint Environmental Resources Director/Land Commissioner as Drainage Inspector
• Consider Resolution No. 03-02-2021-02, Appoint a County Recorder Pursuant to Minnesota Statute 375A.01

The Mille Lacs County Board approved multiple rounds of Pandemic Economic Relief Grants for local businesses and nonprofits, including Muggs of Mille Lacs, Rodeway Inn, Princeton Fitness, and New Freedom, Inc. The board also approved a $10,000 distribution to the Princeton VFW and Milaca Legion. A motion to approve a kennel license for Susan and Jay Kenady failed after staff noted formal approval would occur at the next meeting.

• Approved pandemic relief grants for 16 businesses/nonprofits (5-0)
• Approved pandemic relief grant for Reynolds Balloons (4-0, Reynolds abstained)
• Approved pandemic relief grants for Naomi's Pet Grooming, Allstar Childcare, Brookview Winery, Thompson Lake Country Drug (5-0)
• Approved $10,000 pandemic relief distribution to Princeton VFW and Milaca Legion (5-0)
• Approved pandemic relief grants for Milaca Legion, T-Nails, Madre Loca contingent on documentation (5-0)
• Approved penalty and interest abatement for Allstar Childcare (5-0)
• Denied conditional use permit for Stephan Davy's home occupation (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 03-02-2021-03 issuing trespass notice to Maynard Schwartz (5-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold its regular meeting, addressing consent agenda items including road improvement grants, charitable gambling permits, and a tobacco license, followed by regular agenda items on scheduling a drone program public hearing, supporting a noxious weed prevention program, accepting a resignation, and approving pandemic economic relief grants. A work session will cover COVID-19, a taser upgrade, and filling the administrator vacancy.

• Consider Mille Lacs County Pandemic Economic Relief Grant Applications
• Consider Scheduling a Public Hearing for Drone Program
• Consider PWD Resolution No. 2021-2-16-21-3, Princeton Township LRIP Grant Sponsorship
• Consider PWD Resolution No. 2021-2-16-21-5, Borgholm Township LRIP Grant Sponsorship - 100th Avenue
• Consider Tobacco License for Lake Stop

The Mille Lacs County Board approved several consent agenda items, including charitable gambling permits, road improvement grant sponsorships, and the acceptance of a completed culvert project. They also approved the Republic Services recycling agreement renewal, which extends the contract to February 28, 2022, with a 5% fee increase. The board scheduled a public hearing on the drone program for March 2, 2021, and approved the resignation of the Land Services Director/County Recorder. A motion to table the position description change failed.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes, warrants, tobacco license, and charitable gambling permits (4-0)
• Approved PWD resolutions for LRIP grant sponsorships for Princeton, Borgholm (100th Ave), and Borgholm (110th Ave) townships (4-0)
• Accepted CSAH 5 box culvert replacement project over Prairie Brook (4-0)
• Scheduled drone program public hearing for March 2, 2021 (4-0)
• Approved resignation of Land Services Director/County Recorder Michele McPherson (4-0)
• Approved letter of support for State Noxious Weed Prevention Program funding (4-0)
• Approved Mille Lacs County Pandemic Economic Relief Grant Applications (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 02-16-2021-04, Republic Services Renewal Agreement (4-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold its regular meeting on February 2, 2021, addressing a consent agenda and regular agenda items. Key decisions include approving pandemic economic relief grants, road project resolutions, and various agreements for legal services, cleaning, and mass dispensing sites. The board will also discuss a letter to the governor and attorney general, a joint powers agreement for water management, and a contract with DEED for a Small Cities Development Program.

• Consider Mille Lacs County Pandemic Economic Relief Grant Applications
• Consider Resolution No. 2021-2-2-21-2, 2019 LOST Road Projects 106, 112, and 151
• Consider 2021 Legal Services Agreement
• Consider Mass Dispensing Site Agreements with Milaca and Onamia Schools
• Consider Joint Powers Agreement for Rum River Comprehensive Water Management Plan

The Mille Lacs County Board accepted County Administrator Pat Oman's resignation and approved payment for 240 accrued vacation hours in a 4-1 vote. The board also approved several road project acceptances, a trail agreement, pandemic relief grants, and a chief deputy sheriff wage resolution. The joint powers agreement for the Rum River water plan was tabled.

• Accepted County Administrator Pat Oman's resignation with 240 vacation-hour payout (4-1)
• Adopted Resolution No. 2021-2-2-21-2 accepting 2019 LOST Road Projects 106, 112, 151 (5-0)
• Approved Great Northern Trail Memo of Understanding Agreement (5-0)
• Approved 2021 Legal Services Agreement, Option 1 (5-0)
• Approved letter to Minnesota Governor and Attorney General (5-0)
• Tabled Joint Powers Agreement for Rum River Comprehensive Water Plan (5-0)
• Approved Mille Lacs County Pandemic Economic Relief Grant Applications (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 02-02-2021-02 establishing Chief Deputy Sheriff wage at Step 3, Grade S (5-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold its regular meeting, addressing a consent agenda with routine approvals and a regular agenda that includes opening sealed publishing bids, authorizing a child protection social worker vacancy, and hearing stakeholder presentations. A work session will cover the 2021 state legislative platform, fund balance review, and highway sign placement.

• Open sealed publishing bids
• Authorize filling Lead Child Protection Social Worker vacancy as Child Protection Social Worker
• Consider 2021 Computer Purchase
• Consider Resolution No. 01-14-2021-01, Amending Jail Food Service Contract
• Consider Grant through Hero K9 to Fund Purchase of Equipment for New K9 Squad

The Mille Lacs County Board approved the consent agenda, including the appointment of Kyle Burton as Chief Deputy, and designated the Union-Times as the official county newspaper for 2021. The board also approved filling a Lead Child Protection Social Worker vacancy with a Child Protection Social Worker position. Several stakeholder presentations were heard, but no other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes, warrants, and legal payments (4-0)
• Appointed Kyle Burton as Chief Deputy (4-0)
• Approved APG bid, designating Union-Times as official county newspaper (4-0)
• Approved filling Lead Child Protection Social Worker vacancy with Child Protection Social Worker (4-0)