Mille Lacs County public meetings in 2024

Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Board of Adjustment will discuss four separate requests submitted by local residents. The agenda lists requests from Janet Norman (two items), Michael Hagel, and Bill Davison Jr. No further details about the nature of the requests are provided in the agenda.

• Consideration of a request by Janet Norman
• Consideration of a second request by Janet Norman
• Consideration of a request by Michael Hagel
• Consideration of a request by Bill Davison Jr

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will review and act on the 2025 budget, including a levy resolution. The meeting also includes contract approvals, ordinance considerations, and updates on public works projects. Several resolutions on salaries, commissioner compensation, and cannabis regulation will be discussed.

• Consider Resolution 12-17-24-04: 2025 Budget & Levy
• Consider amendment to Jail Food Service Contract
• Consider County Building Official Contract with Mid-MN Inspections LLC
• Consider Engineering Proposal for CSAH 1/CSAH 18 Joint Reconstruction
• Review County Jail Project

The board adopted the 2025 budget and levy, totaling $50.05M budget and $25.27M levy, reflecting a 6.09% increase. It also set 2025 salaries for the sheriff at $145,600 and county attorney at $154,000, and approved a 7% commissioner salary increase to $28,900. The board approved a revised liquor ordinance, a cannabis business ordinance, and a fee schedule, among other items.

• Adopted 2025 budget and levy of $50,052,382 and $25,268,847 (unanimous)
• Set 2025 sheriff salary at $145,600 (4-1)
• Set 2025 county attorney salary at $154,000 (4-1)
• Adopted commissioner compensation at $28,900 with $50 per diem (unanimous)
• Adopted cannabis business ordinance and resolution (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 fee schedule effective Jan 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 non-union uniform wage scale (3-2)
• Approved county-owned land sale bids (unanimous)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will conduct a public hearing on the Truth-in-Taxation issue. No decisions are recorded on the agenda; the hearing is for public input. The meeting otherwise follows standard procedural items.

• Truth-in-Taxation Public Hearing

The Mille Lacs County Board convened for a truth-in-taxation public hearing on the 2024 budget, where residents voiced concerns about rising property taxes and land values. No formal decisions were made during the hearing; the board only opened and closed the hearing and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Opened truth-in-taxation public hearing at 6:26 p.m. (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing at 7:20 p.m. (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:20 p.m. (unanimous)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will review the 2025 budget, consider several contracts and resolutions, and hold a public hearing on a new cannabis business licensing ordinance. Items on the consent agenda include a safe‑and‑secure grant, a revised local‑option sales tax agreement, and opioid agreement contracts. The regular agenda features bridge inspection proposals, ditch assessments, and a bridge replacement resolution.

• Public Hearing for Cannabis Business Licensing Ordinance
• Consider Revised Local Option Sales Tax Agreement with MN Department of Revenue
• Consider Opioid Agreement Contracts
• Consider 2025-2027 Bridge Inspection Proposal
• Consider Resolution 12-03-24-04: Bridge Replacement

The Mille Lacs County Board held a public hearing and unanimously approved a cannabis business licensing ordinance that limits retailers to three facilities, the minimum required by state law. The board also approved several public works items, including a bridge inspection contract, ditch assessments, and a bridge replacement priority list. Additionally, the board approved the sale and lease of county vehicles, summer intern positions, and revised position descriptions from a compensation study.

• Approved cannabis business licensing ordinance limiting retailers to three (unanimous)
• Accepted Erickson Engineering bridge inspection proposal for $91,010 (unanimous)
• Approved County Ditch 14 inspection report and authorized repairs (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 12-03-24-02 for 2025 County Ditch Assessments (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 12-03-24-03 supporting Soo Line Trail regional designation (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 12-03-24-04 listing bridge replacement priorities (unanimous)
• Approved sale of 8 vehicles and lease of 4 new vehicles (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 summer intern positions and recruitment (unanimous)

County Board

The County Board will hold public hearings regarding the fee schedule and liquor ordinance amendments. Members will consider the 2025 Comprehensive Land Use Plan and a Housing Trust Fund Ordinance. The meeting includes reviews of the 2025 budget and various county contracts.

• Public hearing for Liquor Ordinance Amendment
• Resolution 11-19-24-02: 2025 Mille Lacs County Comprehensive Land Use Plan
• Housing Trust Fund Ordinance
• Historic Courthouse Tuckpointing RFP and project bids
• 2025 County Fleet and Public Works Vehicle Leases

The Mille Lacs County Board approved multiple planning and land use items on November 19, 2024, including the adoption of the 2025 Comprehensive Land Use Plan and the Housing Trust Fund Ordinance. The board also approved historic courthouse project bids with a majority vote, authorized a septic system abatement assessment, and approved several planning commission requests. Additionally, the board tabled a decision on 2025 county fleet and public works vehicle leases until December 3, 2024.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Approved septic system abatement assessment of $13,725 for parcel 08-012-0901 (Resolution 11-19-24-01)
• Approved Janet Norman CUP for a Home Extended Business on parcel 01-010-0406 (5-0)
• Approved rezoning parcel 14-240-0420 from A-R Agricultural Residential to R-2 Medium Density Residential for William Hill Jr. (5-0)
• Approved Mille Lacs County rezoning request for parcel 14-240-0090 from A-R Agricultural Residential to C-1 General Commercial (5-0)
• Approved Development Ordinance Amendment regarding Cannabis Cultivation (5-0)
• Approved Development Ordinance Amendment regarding the Board of Adjustment and Planning Commission (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Mille Lacs County Planning Commission will review several items at its November 12 meeting. It will consider adopting the 2025 Comprehensive Land Use Plan, a conditional use permit for Janet Norman, a rezoning request from William Hill Jr., a rezoning of parcel 14-240-0090, and two development ordinance amendments (LSO 2024-13 and LSO 2024-14). Decisions on these items will be made during the meeting.

• Consider adoption of the 2025 Comprehensive Land Use Plan
• Janet Norman request for a conditional use permit
• William Hill Jr request for rezoning
• Consider rezoning of parcel 14-240-0090
• Consider Development Ordinance Amendments LSO 2024-13 and LSO 2024-14

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold a regular meeting to discuss the 2025 budget, approve contracts, and hold public hearings on liquor and cannabis ordinances. A work session will precede the meeting to review the 2025 County Ditch Levy and Land Services Fee Schedule.

• Consider CY2025 POS Contract with Lighthouse Child & Family Services
• Public Hearing for Liquor Ordinance Amendment
• Public Hearing for Cannabis License Ordinance
• Consider Salt Spreader Acquisition
• Consider 2025 Non-Union County Insurance Contributions

The Mille Lacs County Board approved the 2024 Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Aid budget totaling $112,217, and authorized two tax-forfeited property repurchases. They also approved the 2025-2027 University of Minnesota Extension agreement, 2025 non-union insurance contributions, and a salt spreader acquisition. The board authorized applying for an MPCA recycling grant despite one opposition vote.

• Approved Resolution 11-06-24-01: 2024 AIS Prevention Aid budget of $112,217 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 11-06-24-02: Repurchase of tax-forfeited parcel 21-356-0070 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 11-06-24-03: Repurchase of tax-forfeited parcels 09-969-1630 and 09-969-1640 (unanimous)
• Authorized staff to apply for MPCA Greater MN Recycling Grant (roll call vote, Peterson opposed)
• Approved 2025-2027 University of Minnesota Extension Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 non-union county insurance contributions (unanimous)
• Authorized salt spreader acquisition from Central Hydraulics for $11,664.00 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Board of Adjustment will meet to review two requests submitted by Paul Jackson. The board will also approve the minutes from the September 23, 2024 meeting.

• Consideration of a request by Paul Jackson
• Consideration of a second request by Paul Jackson
• Approval of September 23, 2024 minutes

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will consider approving contracts, grants, and a public hearing for a housing trust fund ordinance. The meeting includes a work session on land sales and a liquor license update.

• Consider Metropolitan County Consortium Contract Amendment
• Consider Covid-19 Recovery Funding- Princeton School Agreement
• Consider Public Hearing for Housing Trust Fund Ordinance
• Consider Highway Maintenance Agreement with the City of Princeton
• Consider Mille Lacs County Childcare Grants

The Mille Lacs County Board approved several routine items, including establishing an Absentee Ballot Board and scheduling the County Canvass Board Meeting for November 13, 2024. They also approved contract amendments for septic services, a highway maintenance agreement with Princeton, and an application for a veterans job training program. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Resolution 10-15-24-01 establishing Absentee and UOCAVA Ballot Boards (unanimous)
• Approved scheduling County Canvass Board Meeting for November 13, 2024 at 10:00 am (unanimous)
• Approved Amendment No. 1 to Assured Septics LLC service agreement, extending deadline to November 30, 2024 (unanimous)
• Authorized application to MDVA for On the Job Training Program (unanimous)
• Approved City-County Road Maintenance Agreement with City of Princeton (unanimous)

County Board

The County Board will hold a work session to review the 2025 budget and discuss the Princeton Maintenance Agreement. The regular meeting includes decisions on service contracts and a proposal for the Historic Courthouse ceiling.

• Review of 2025 Budget
• Solicitation of price quotes for CHIPS and Public Defender Services
• Resolution 10-01-24-01 supporting Operation Green Light for Veterans
• Arrows Family Services Host County Contract
• Historic Courthouse Ceiling Proposal

The Mille Lacs County Board unanimously approved a host county contract with Arrows Family Services for 2025-2026. They also authorized solicitation of proposals for the Historic Courthouse Ceiling project and approved legal fees of $26,115.00 to Kelly Wolter as part of the Consent Agenda. The board passed a resolution supporting Operation Green Light for Veterans and approved the September 24, 2024 meeting minutes.

• Approved Arrows Family Services host contract for 2025-2026 (unanimous)
• Authorized solicitation of proposals for Historic Courthouse Ceiling project (unanimous)
• Approved legal fees of $26,115.00 to Kelly Wolter (Consent Agenda)
• Adopted Resolution 10-01-24-01 supporting Operation Green Light for Veterans
• Approved September 24, 2024 County Board meeting minutes
• Approved Consent Agenda as presented (unanimous)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will consider a resolution for a 2025 preliminary levy. It will also review a septic system abatement resolution, a 2022 EMPG grant agreement, and a tandem axle plow truck acquisition. These items appear on the consent and regular agenda items for the September 24 meeting.

• Resolution 09-24-24-01: Septic System Abatement
• 2022 EMPG Grant Agreement
• Resolution 09-24-24-02: 2025 Preliminary Levy
• Tandem Axle Plow Truck Acquisition

The board unanimously adopted a 2025 preliminary maximum levy of $25,409,123, a 6.09% increase over 2024. It also approved a special assessment of $15,225 for a septic system abatement on a property owned by Ryan Pederson, authorized a $312,402 tandem axle plow truck acquisition, and approved the consent agenda and prior meeting minutes with a correction.

• Adopted 2025 preliminary levy of $25,409,123 (unanimous)
• Approved $15,225 special assessment for septic abatement on PID 02-002-0103 (unanimous)
• Authorized $312,402 plow truck acquisition from Boyer and Towmaster (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved Sept 17, 2024 minutes with spelling correction (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Board of Adjustment will meet to review requests from three individuals. The board will consider one request from Randy Simons and two requests from Jesse Latterell.

• Consideration of a request by Randy Simons
• Consideration of two requests by Jesse Latterell

County Board

The County Board will hold a work session to review the 2025 budget. The regular meeting includes decisions on the appointment and salary of the County Attorney and a contract renewal for animal control services.

• 2025 Budget Review
• Resolution 09-17-24-02: Appointing County Attorney and establishing salary
• Contract renewal with OnLine Retrievers for animal control services
• Opioid Settlement Agreement
• Gambling Permit for Isle Lions Club (Resolution 09-17-24-01)

The Board appointed Corey Haller to fill the County Attorney vacancy for the remainder of the term. Other actions included approving legal fee payments and renewing an animal control services contract.

• Appointed Corey Haller as County Attorney effective Sept. 15, 2024 (4-1)
• Established County Attorney salary for remainder of 2024 at $41,913.30 (4-1)
• Approved $22,200 payment to Nolan, Thompson, Leighton, & Tataryn PLC (unanimous)
• Approved contract renewal with OnLine Retrievers for Animal Control services (unanimous)
• Approved exempt gambling permit for Isle Lions Club for Oct. 26, 2024 (unanimous)

County Board

The County Board will hold work sessions to review the 2025 Public Works, Land Services, and Extension budgets, as well as the preliminary levy. The regular meeting includes decisions on a master agreement with BCI Construction and a telecommunication grant application for Benton.

• Master Agreement with BCI Construction
• Benton Telecommunication Grant Application
• Revised Tobacco Ordinance
• Resolution 09-03-24-01 to classify tax forfeited lands
• Sale of decommissioned squad cars

The Mille Lacs County Board approved two rezoning requests, denied a proposed Development Ordinance Amendment regarding Recreational Camping, and tabled a separate amendment on Residential Lots. The board also authorized a $2,000 grant application to Benton Telecommunications and approved a master agreement with BCI Construction. All other agenda items were approved as part of the consent agenda.

• Approved rezoning parcel 14-030-0800 from A-R to L-1 (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning parcel 11-013-0900 from L-1 to A-R (unanimous)
• Denied Development Ordinance Amendment for Recreational Camping (3-2)
• Tabled Development Ordinance Amendment for Residential Lots (unanimous)
• Authorized $2,000 grant application to Benton Telecommunications (unanimous)
• Approved master agreement with BCI Construction (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including sale of squad cars and tax forfeited land classification (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Board of Adjustment will meet to review requests from eight different individuals. The board will also approve the minutes from the August 6, 2024 meeting.

• Request by Greg Chaffin
• Request by Casey Zimmerman
• Requests by Joseph Bontrager
• Request by Nathan Neuhart
• Requests by Randy Simons, Shanda Paulson, and Cole Draxten

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold a public hearing on a proposed amendment to the county tobacco ordinance. The board will also consider several livestock feedlot permits, the reappointment of the county assessor, and a purchase of equipment using drug forfeiture funds. Additional items include budget reviews for the County Attorney’s Office and CVS, a presentation by the Central Minnesota Council on Aging, and pavement resurfacing project bids.

• Reappointment of Mille Lacs County Assessor (Resolution 08-20-24-01)
• Ash Farms Livestock Feedlot Permit
• B & G Dairy LLC Feedlot Permit
• Public hearing on amendment to the county tobacco ordinance
• Consider purchase of equipment using drug forfeiture funds

The Mille Lacs County Board approved a $1,367,315.94 pavement resurfacing contract with Knife River, reappointed Lisa Olson as County Assessor for a four-year term, and approved several feedlot permits. The board also voted to make an offer to the County Attorney finalist from the August 6 meeting and authorized the Executive Committee to negotiate, with a final decision expected September 3. A motion to interview a new applicant and set a decision deadline failed on a 2-3 vote.

• Approved $1,367,315.94 pavement resurfacing bid from Knife River (unanimous)
• Reappointed Lisa Olson as County Assessor for 2025-2028 (unanimous)
• Approved Ash Farms, B & G Dairy, and Shelley Farms livestock feedlot permits (unanimous)
• Approved renewed DNR lease agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Personnel Policy revisions (unanimous)
• Approved revised Public Works Director position description and grade (unanimous)
• Failed motion to interview new County Attorney applicant and set Sept. 3 deadline (2-3)
• Approved making offer to County Attorney finalist from Aug. 6 meeting (4-1)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to consider two rezone requests and an amendment to the development ordinance. The body will also review minutes from the July 8, 2024 meeting.

• Leon Wagner request for rezone
• Warren Peterson request for rezone
• Steve Smith request for Development Ordinance Amendment regarding Recreational Camping
• Mille Lacs County request for a Development Ordinance Amendment

Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Board of Adjustment will meet to review requests from two individuals and one township. The board will also vote to approve the minutes from the June 24, 2024 meeting.

• Request by Paul Jackson
• Request by Borgholm Township
• Request by Johnathon Kemp

County Board

The County Board will meet to discuss the 2025 budget for the Sheriff's Office and Probation. The board is deciding on a local option sales tax extension and proposals for pavement resurfacing and sewer pipe lining.

• Resolution 08-06-24-02: Local Option Sales Tax Extension
• Authorization to solicit proposals for pavement resurfacing
• Proposals to line the sewer pipe at the South Maintenance Facility
• Budget amendment for E911 Funds
• Resolution 08-06-24-01: Temporary Liquor License

The County Board extended a 0.5% local options sales tax for transportation to fund paved local roads and the paving of County Roads 131 and 140. The board also approved several equipment purchases for public works and a budget amendment for E911 funds.

• Extended 0.5% local options sales tax for transportation through Dec 31, 2040 (unanimous)
• Approved E911 Funds budget amendment of $63,492.39 (unanimous)
• Approved $64,175.80 Belly Dump Trailer from Ziegler (unanimous)
• Approved $62,438.00 2021 Morbark 1621X from TrenchersPlus (unanimous)
• Approved $54,200 for two 2007 Mack Granite tractors from Nuss Equipment (unanimous)
• Adopted Facility Access Policy (4-1)
• Approved temporary liquor license for Rum River Trail Association (unanimous)
• Scheduled tobacco ordinance public hearing for August 20, 2024 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Board of Adjustment will meet to review requests from Paul Jackson, Borgholm Township, and Johnathon Kemp. The board will also approve the minutes from the June 24, 2024 meeting.

• Request by Paul Jackson
• Request by Borgholm Township
• Request by Johnathon Kemp

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold two public hearings: one on extending the local options sales tax and another on a cannabis business moratorium ordinance. The board will also review planning commission recommendations, discuss revised public safety telecommunicator roles, and consider bids for ditch spraying and gravel crushing.

• Public hearing on Local Options Sales Tax Extension
• Public hearing on Cannabis Business Moratorium Ordinance
• Consider Planning Commission Recommendations (Land Services Office)
• Consider Ditch Spraying Bids (Public Works)
• Consider Gravel Crushing Bids (Public Works)

The Mille Lacs County Board approved a Cannabis Businesses Moratorium Interim Ordinance after a public hearing with no public input. The board also approved a conditional use permit for a contractor/supply yard, a rezoning from agricultural to commercial, and equipment acquisitions totaling $197,967.33. A ditch spraying bid was awarded to Central Applicators, and an interim engineer agreement with Isanti County was authorized. No gravel crushing bids were received, so no action was taken.

• Approved Cannabis Businesses Moratorium Interim Ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved CUP for contractor/supply yard by Scott Karst (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance # LSO 2024-10 rezoning parcel 15-024-0106 from A-R to C-2 (unanimous)
• Approved ditch spraying bid from Central Applicators for ditches 2, 3, 4 (unanimous)
• Approved interim County Engineer agreement with Isanti County (unanimous)
• Approved CAT 938 Loader, BA30 Power Broom, Water Tank Kit for $61,756.19 net (unanimous)
• Approved CAT 265 Skidloader and CAT HM316 mulching head for $136,211.14 net (unanimous)
• No action on gravel crushing bids as none were received

Planning Commission

The commission will consider a Conditional Use Permit for a supply and contractor yard requested by Scott Karst. The meeting also includes consideration of a request by Kirk Kroll.

• Supply/Contractor Yard CUP request by Scott Karst
• Request by Kirk Kroll
• Approval of June 10, 2024 minutes

County Board

The board will review the year-to-date budget report and legislative platform during a work session. The regular meeting includes consideration of sheriff's office budget amendments and an architectural services contract. Additionally, the board will schedule a public hearing for a cannabis business moratorium ordinance.

• Sheriff's Office budget amendments and correctional officer positions
• Contract with Klein McCarthy for architectural services
• Scheduling a public hearing for Cannabis Business Moratorium Ordinance
• Local Option Sales Tax Public Hearing consideration

The Mille Lacs County Board approved the addition of two correctional officer positions and a contract for architectural services. The board also authorized the posting of a vacancy for the County Attorney position and approved two land rezoning and plat requests.

• Approved rezoning of parcel 13-023-0700 (5-0)
• Approved Natures Edge Final Plat (5-0)
• Approved two new correctional officer positions and budget amendments (5-0)
• Approved architectural services contract with Klein McCarthy (5-0)
• Authorized posting of County Attorney vacancy (3-2)

Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Board of Adjustment will meet to consider requests from five individuals. The provided agenda does not include specific details regarding the nature or location of these requests.

• Request by Kathy Fitschen
• Request by Marilyn Peterson
• Request by Eric Lee Blumke
• Request by Thomas Pearson
• Request by Mike Larsen

County Board

The County Board will hold a public hearing regarding the Local Options Sales Tax Extension. The meeting also includes a work session on the 2025 budget and consideration of various administrative resolutions.

• Public hearing for the Local Options Sales Tax Extension
• Gambling permit for Milaca Golf Club
• MOU for Community and Veterans Services and Nexus Kindred
• Snowmobile - ATV Club Sponsorship resolution
• Consideration of ditch spraying

The County Board approved the appointment of an Absentee Ballot Board for the upcoming primary election and authorized a multi-year sponsorship for local snowmobile and ATV trails. Commissioners also adopted a performance measurement program and approved an MOU for community and veteran services. A public hearing was held regarding the local option sales tax extension.

• Approved June 4 meeting minutes with corrections (5-0)
• Appointed Ballot Board and UOCAVA Ballot Board (5-0)
• Approved Milaca Golf Club gambling permit (5-0)
• Approved MOU with Nexus Kindred (5-0)
• Adopted snowmobile/ATV trail sponsorship resolution (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted performance measurement program (5-0)
• Approved ditch spraying contract (5-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will meet on June 17, 2024. The agenda includes the consideration of parcel appeal recommendations.

• Consideration of parcel appeal recommendations

Planning Commission

The Mille Lacs County Planning Commission will review the May 13, 2024, meeting minutes. The commission will also consider a request for the Final Plat of Natures Edge by KNB Property, LLC, and a request from Joe Heike.

• Final Plat of Natures Edge by KNB Property, LLC
• Request by Joe Heike
• Approval of May 13, 2024 meeting minutes

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will review the 2024-2029 Capital Improvement Plan and a letter from MNDOT regarding the Highway 169/27 roundabout. The agenda also includes consideration of personnel policy revisions and a road agreement between Princeton and Wyanett Township.

• 2024-2029 Capital Improvement Plan
• MNDOT letter regarding Highway 169/27 roundabout
• Contract for 2024 Pavement Markings
• Retention Bonus Memorandum of Agreement with LELS Bargaining Unit
• Community and Veterans Services Building concrete and pavement services project

The Board approved several amendments to the Development Ordinance regarding residential lots and home-based businesses. It also authorized an $88,157.30 concrete project and a revised 2024-2028 Capital Improvement Plan. A request for a contractor/supply yard was tabled for further review.

• Approved $88,157.30 bid from Hjort excavating for CVS building concrete and pavement (unanimous)
• Approved Development Ordinance amendments for multi-family dwellings, residential lots, home extended business, and custom meat processing (unanimous)
• Approved revised 2024-2028 CIP and sale of 12 capital assets (unanimous)
• Approved MNDOT letter regarding Highway 169/27 roundabout (4-1)
• Tabled contractor/supply yard CUP for further Planning Commission review (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of liquor licenses (unanimous)
• Approved starting wage of step 11 for temporary 911 Communications Specialist (unanimous)
• Denied proposal to split road responsibility between Princeton and Wyanett Townships; encouraged mediation (4-1 / unanimous)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board is reviewing the 2025 budget and approving various operational items, including legal fees and a contract with Isanti County for adult mental health services. The board will also award the bid for CSAH 4 and consider a public hearing date for the LOST project. Additionally, the board will review the 2024 pavement marking bid award and discuss zoning updates.

• Review 2025 Budget
• Consider Adult Mental Health Initiative Contract with Isanti County
• CSAH 4 Bid Award
• Consider Bid Award for 2024 Pavement Marking
• Consider Proposed LOST Public Hearing Date

The Board approved several revised position descriptions and budget amendments for the Sheriff's Office, including the recruitment of an Investigative Sergeant and a part-time 911 Telecommunicator. Other actions included granting gambling permits and awarding a pavement marking contract.

• Approved Facility Operations Policy (Unanimous)
• Authorized $3,281.00 payment to Taft LLP for March 2024 legal fees (Unanimous)
• Approved gambling permit for Suicide Awareness Voices of Education at Onamia Veteran's Club (Unanimous)
• Approved exempt gambling permit for Milaca Fire Relief raffle (Unanimous)
• Denied Resolution 5-21-24-03 regarding Mississippi River Sartell Planning Grant support (3-2)
• Approved revised Detention Services Lieutenant and Family Home Visiting Coordinator position descriptions (3-1)
• Authorized recruitment of Investigative Sergeant and related budget amendments (3-1)
• Awarded 2024 Pavement Marking contract to Sir-Lines-Alot (Unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Mille Lacs County Planning Commission will consider a conditional use permit for a supply and contractor yard. The commission will also discuss a request from Mille Lacs County to amend the Development Ordinance.

• Scott Karst request for Supply/Contractor Yard CUP
• Mille Lacs County Development Ordinance Amendment request

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board approved KNB Property, LLC's Preliminary Plat "Natures Edge" on a unanimous vote and approved an additional Health Educator position in Public Health 4-1, with Commissioner Oslin opposed. The Board also adopted resolutions for a liquor license for Izaty's LLC, National Correctional Officer Week, and the appointment of Agricultural Inspectors, and approved the 2024 County Agricultural Inspector Work Plan and the Probation Comprehensive Plan. Legal fees of $15,010.00 to Kelley, Wolter, & Scott PA were approved as part of the Consent Agenda.

• Approved Planning Commission recommendation for KNB Property, LLC's Preliminary Plat "Natures Edge" (unanimous)
• Approved additional Health Educator position in Public Health (4-1, Oslin opposed)
• Adopted Resolution 05-07-24-01 authorizing a Liquor License for Izaty's LLC in South Harbor Township (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 05-07-24-02 recognizing National Correctional Officer Week (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 05-07-24-03 appointing Agricultural Inspector and County Designated Employees (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 County Agricultural Inspector Work Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Probation Comprehensive Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda as amended, including legal fees of $15,010.00 to Kelley, Wolter, & Scott PA (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Board of Adjustment will hold a public meeting on April 22, 2024, at 7:00 PM. The agenda includes routine procedural items such as approving the March 25, 2024 minutes. The primary substantive items are two variance requests: one by Steve Secraw and one by Paul Golberg. No specific property addresses or project details are listed in the provided agenda text.

• Variance request by Steve Secraw
• Variance request by Paul Golberg
• Approval of March 25, 2024 Board of Adjustment minutes

County Board

The County Board will meet to consider various permits, grant applications, and policy revisions. The session includes a public hearing regarding a prohibited animals ordinance and discussions on broadband and road infrastructure.

• Public hearing for Prohibited Animals Ordinance
• Street closing permits for Rum River Festival and Northland Crane Service
• Resolution 04-16-24-02 regarding ECE Broadband Project
• RFP for 2024 Pavement Marking
• Application for MPCA Local Climate Action Grants

The Board approved a $366,156 bridge replacement grant and requested a $2,406,009.04 advance for highway projects. Other actions included approving a prohibited animals ordinance and committing $20,000 to a broadband project.

• Approved Prohibited Animals Ordinance amendment (unanimous)
• Approved $366,156 Local Bridge Replacement Program grant (unanimous)
• Requested $2,406,009.04 advance for County State Aid Highway funds (unanimous)
• Committed $20,000 matching funds for East Central Energy Broadband Project
• Approved MPCA Local Climate Action Grant application (3-1)
• Approved Co-Responder Grant application (unanimous)
• Approved stop sign installation at 3rd Avenue and 3rd Street, Milaca (unanimous)
• Authorized special assessments for SSTS upgrades for five parcels

Planning Commission

The Mille Lacs County Planning Commission will meet to approve previous minutes and consider a request from KNB Property, LLC.

• Request by KNB Property, LLC

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board is holding a regular meeting with a work session on zoning violations, citations, and a prohibited animals ordinance. The board will consider consent agenda items including a health educator position, legal fees, a lawful gambling permit, and a jail healthcare contract, plus regular agenda items on planning commission recommendations, tax-forfeited property repurchase, a grant application, donations, and a construction contract.

• Zoning discussion on violations, citations, and prohibited animals ordinance
• Resolution 04-02-24-01: Authorize lawful gambling permit
• Resolution 04-02-24-02: Repurchase of tax forfeited property
• Resolution 04-02-24-03: MNGeo PLSS Monument Grant application
• Construction contract for SAP 048-598-014

The Board approved several zoning amendments and the rezoning of one parcel to Highway Commercial. It also authorized the repurchase of a tax-forfeited parcel in East Side Township and approved a construction contract for SAP 048-598-014.

• Rezoned parcel 12-001-2301 to Highway Commercial (unanimous)
• Amended Provision 504.25 and Article 1301 regarding campers/recreational storage (4-1)
• Amended Provision 506.2 (unanimous)
• Approved repurchase of tax-forfeited parcel 05-804-0780 (unanimous)
• Authorized MNGeo PLSS Monument Grant application (unanimous)
• Approved $409.50 in legal fees to TAFT (unanimous)
• Approved construction contract for Houle Excavting, LLC for SAP 048-598-014 (unanimous)
• Tabled Health Educator Position until after next Community Health Board meeting (3-2)

Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Board of Adjustment will meet to consider variance requests. The board is also scheduled to approve the minutes from the February 26, 2024 meeting.

• Variance requests by Paul Goldberg
• Variance requests by Andrew Thom
• Approval of February 26, 2024 meeting minutes

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold a public hearing regarding an amendment to the short-term rental licensing ordinance. The board is also considering several contracts, including one for the Ericsonville Facility remodel and the County Surveyor position.

• Public hearing for Short-Term Rental Licensing Ordinance Amendment
• Scheduling of public hearing for Prohibited Animals Ordinance
• HMA AIA Contract B101 - 2017 for the Ericsonville Facility Remodel
• KLD Contract for County Surveyor Position
• MFIP/DWP Employment Services Contract with Avivo

The Mille Lacs County Board approved an HMA AIA Contract B101 - 2017 for the Ericsonville Facility Remodel and approved Klein McCarthy Architect's proposal for the jail request for proposal, authorizing the County Administrator to initiate contract negotiations. Both votes were 3-2, with Commissioners Whitcomb, Reynolds, and Peterson in favor and Commissioners Tellinghuisen and Oslin against. The Board also approved a Short-Term Rental Licensing Ordinance amendment after a public hearing with no public input, and approved an MFIP/DWP employment services contract with Avivo for $198,302.00.

• Approved HMA AIA Contract B101 - 2017 for Ericsonville Facility Remodel (3-2)
• Approved Klein McCarthy Architect's jail proposal and authorized contract negotiations (3-2)
• Approved Short-Term Rental Licensing Ordinance amendment (unanimous)
• Approved MFIP/DWP employment services contract with Avivo for $198,302.00 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 03-19-24-01: Repurchase of Tax-Forfeited Property (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Pay Equity Compliance Report (unanimous)
• Approved four intern positions for a maximum of 67 days in a calendar year (unanimous)
• Approved legal fees of $4,119.10 to TAFT as part of Consent Agenda

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will meet to discuss administrative technology purchases and a prohibited animals ordinance. The board will also consider a lawful gambling permit and the North STAR Act.

• Scheduling a public hearing for a Prohibited Animals Ordinance
• Purchase of RingCentral Telephone System
• Purchase of Juniper Network Switches
• Resolution 03-05-24-01 to authorize Lawful Gambling Permit
• Resolution 03-05-24-02 regarding the North STAR Act

The County Board passed a resolution urging the Governor and legislative delegation to reject the North STAR Act. The Board also approved several technology purchases and legal fee payments.

• Adopted Resolution 03-05-24-02 opposing the North STAR Act (unanimous)
• Approved $84,870.20 purchase of 15 Juniper network switches from SHI (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of RingCentral telephone system through Dennison Technology (unanimous)
• Approved $30,810.00 payment to Kelly, Wolter, & Scott, P.A. for July 2023 fees (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved amended Consent Agenda (unanimous)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold a public hearing to amend the Subdivision Plat Review Ordinance. The agenda includes resolutions for three MnDOT detour agreements and a proposal for Soo Line Master Plan consulting services. Additionally, the board will consider purchasing Sapphire Electronic Medical Records Software and a KnowBe4 CyberSecurity Program.

• Public Hearing to Amend the Subdivision Plat Review Ordinance
• Resolution 02-20-24-03: MnDOT Detour Agreement for SP 4811-80
• Resolution 02-20-24-04: MnDOT Detour Agreement for SP 4811-76
• Resolution 02-20-24-05: MnDOT Detour Agreement for SP 4802-25
• Proposal for Soo Line Master Plan Consulting Services

The Board adopted an amended Subdivision Plat Review Ordinance and approved several MnDOT detour agreements. Other actions included approving a conditional use permit for a single-family dwelling and purchasing medical records software for the Sheriff's Office.

• Adopted amended Subdivision Plat Review Ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved $9,010.00 payment to Nolan, Thompson, Leighton, & Tataryn PLC (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Sapphire Electronic Medical Records Software up to $14,100.00 (unanimous)
• Approved CUP for a Single-Family dwelling on parcel 01-036-0800 (unanimous)
• Approved removal of Bed and Breakfast use from C1 General Commercial Zoning District (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 02-20-24-02 to direct hearing on County Ditch 5 (unanimous)
• Appointed Kyle Lau as County Drainage Inspector through Dec 31, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved three MnDOT detour agreements for projects SP 4811-80, SP 4811-76, and SP 4802-25 (unanimous)

County Board

The County Board will meet to decide on several administrative contracts, budget amendments, and the scheduling of public hearings. The agenda includes reviews of public health awards and infrastructure projects.

• Scheduling public hearings for Short-Term Rental Licensing and Subdivision Plat Review ordinances
• Award for SAP 048-598-014 Box Culverts Replacement on CR 105 and CR 119
• Budget amendment to transfer Public Safety Aid Funds to the Sheriff's Office
• Purchase of Microsoft Office 365 Licenses and Splunk security software
• Resolution 02-06-24-03 regarding opposition to redesigning the State Flag & Seal

The Board adopted a resolution urging the Governor and legislature to retain the existing state flag and seal. Other actions included establishing absentee ballot boards for upcoming elections and approving various IT and infrastructure purchases.

• Adopted Resolution 02-06-24-03 opposing the redesign of the state flag and seal (unanimous)
• Established Absentee Ballot Board for PNP Election via Resolution 02-06-24-01 (unanimous)
• Established Absentee Ballot Board for Special Primary and Special Election via Resolution 02-06-24-02 (unanimous)
• Approved $53,412.50 in legal fees to Kelly, Wolter & Scott, P.a. (unanimous)
• Approved purchase and installation of Splunk security software (4-1)
• Approved professional services to install Splunk server system (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Microsoft Office 365 licenses (unanimous)
• Approved budget amendment to transfer public safety aid funds to Sheriff's Office (unanimous)

County Board

The Board approved several high-cost technology upgrades for land services and the Sheriff's Office. Other actions included authorizing the repurchase of tax-forfeited property and funding opioid settlement recommendations.

• Approved $450,000 purchase of Tyler Technologies Tax/Cama Software for 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved $443,990 contract with Pro Phoenix for new RMS/CAD system (unanimous)
• Approved $130,000 for Opioid Advisory Group recommendations using settlement funds (unanimous)
• Approved $39,917.15 for a Polaris side-by-side and disposal of 2005 Polaris Ranger (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 01-16-24-01 to allow repurchase of tax-forfeited parcel 16-024-0902 (unanimous)
• Approved $90,290.36 for Dell server and SAN appliances (unanimous)
• Approved $44,470.92 for 24 Dell computers (unanimous)
• Authorized $15,548.69 payment for legal fees to Taft

County Board

The County Board will elect a 2024 Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson and establish the 2024 meeting schedule. The board will also consider administrative resolutions regarding fund establishment and newspaper bids. A work session is scheduled to discuss zoning violations and strategic planning.

• Election of 2024 Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson
• Consideration of Law Library fee change
• Assessment of delinquent animal control fees
• Review of 2024 newspaper bids
• Discussion of zoning violations

The Board appointed Commissioner Peterson as Chair and Commissioner Oslin as Vice-Chair. Several resolutions were adopted to delegate warrant approval and electronic funds transfer authority to the County Administrator. The Board also established departmental change funds and approved 2024 committee appointments and meeting dates.

• Appointed Commissioner Peterson as 2024 Board Chair (4-1)
• Appointed Commissioner Oslin as 2024 Board Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Approved assessment of delinquent animal control fees (unanimous)
• Designated Mille Lacs Messenger as official paper for 2024 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 01-02-24-01 delegating specific warrant approval to County Administrator (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 01-02-24-02 establishing change funds for Auditor-Treasurer, Recorder, Zoning, CVS, and Sheriff (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 01-02-24-03 authorizing County Administrator to make electronic funds transfers (unanimous)
• Approved revised mental health co-responder position description and personnel policy revisions (unanimous)