Mille Lacs County public meetings in 2025

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will convene on December 30, 2025, to approve the agenda and consider a resignation and recruitment matter.

• Consider resignation and recruitment
• Approve agenda with additions and deletions
• Call meeting to order and Pledge of Allegiance

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will discuss and vote on the 2026 budget and levy (Resolution 12-16-25-03). Other items include contract renewals, equipment purchases, and infrastructure projects. The meeting also features a public hearing on the fee schedule and several committee reports.

• Consider Resolution 12-16-25-03: 2026 Budget & Levy
• Consider renewing Tri-Cap Contract for 2026
• Consider purchase of 3 copiers
• Consider replacement of Historic Courthouse UPS and installation of a maintenance bypass switch
• Consider authorization to order 2026 pickups (State Bid 259180)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Planning Commission will consider four rezoning applications submitted by Tony Roback, Ryan Gunderson, and Jacob Mickus. The commission will also review a variance request from Todd and Patricia Ruedy. No other business items are listed for decision at this meeting.

• Rezone request – Tony Roback
• Rezone request – Ryan Gunderson
• Rezone request – Jacob Mickus
• Variance request – Todd & Patricia Ruedy

The Planning Commission unanimously approved rezoning applications submitted by Tony Roback (two requests), Ryan Gunderson, and Jacob Mickus. It also approved the Ruedy variance to expand a non‑conforming structure but denied the request to increase impervious surface coverage. All motions passed with a 7‑0 vote.

• Approved Tony Roback rezoning request (first) – 7-0
• Approved Tony Roback rezoning request (second) – 7-0
• Approved Ryan Gunderson rezoning request – 7-0
• Approved Jacob Mickus rezoning request – 7-0
• Approved Ruedy variance to expand non‑conforming structure – 7-0
• Denied Ruedy variance request to increase impervious surface – 7-0
• Approved November 10, 2025 minutes – 7-0
• Adjourned meeting – 7-0

County Board

The board will vote on a consent agenda that includes a service contract with Volunteers of America, a FY2026 contract for the Fernbrook Family Center, and a mileage and per diem reimbursement for commissioners. The regular agenda contains items such as a planning commission recommendation, an IT policy change for the sheriff’s office, a contract with Milaca School District for a school resource deputy, final acceptance of a highway striping project, and resolutions on drainage assessments and a phased retirement option. A public hearing on truth‑in‑taxation will also be held.

• Consider Purchase of Service Contract with Volunteers of America (consent agenda)
• Consider FY2026 Fernbrook Family Center Contract (consent agenda)
• Consider Contract with Milaca School District for a School Resource Deputy
• Consider Final Acceptance of SP 048-070-013 HSIP Striping Project
• Consider Resolution 12-02-25-02: 2026 Drainage System Assessments

The board adopted a resolution setting drainage assessments for several county ditches, including a $162,500 assessment for Ditch #1 over two years at 3% interest. It also approved a contract with the Milaca School District for a School Resource Officer and authorized a $14,308.39 final payment to Sir Lines-A-Lot, LLC for a striping project. Additionally, the board approved PERA phased‑retirement participation for two employees and adopted the planning commission recommendation, all by unanimous roll‑call votes.

• Adopted drainage assessment resolution for Ditch #1 ($162,500 over 2 years at 3% interest) and other ditches (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Milaca School District for a School Resource Officer (unanimous)
• Authorized final payment of $14,308.39 to Sir Lines-A-Lot, LLC for striping project (unanimous)
• Adopted PERA Phased Retirement Option for Michael Virnig (unanimous)
• Adopted PERA Phased Retirement Option for Susan Koosman (unanimous)
• Approved planning commission recommendation (unanimous)
• Tabled request for sheriff’s email retention policy staff review (unanimous)
• Adopted 2025 AIS prevention aid budget totaling $147,218 (unanimous)

County Board

The County Board will hold a work session to review the 2026 budget and LOST Authorization Resolution. The regular meeting includes decisions on personnel policies, department head and commissioner compensation, and various service contracts.

• Purchase of 2026 Ford Super Duty F-550 Mechanic's Truck for $179,957.30
• Resolution 11-18-25-03 regarding Elected Department Head Compensation
• Resolution 11-18-25-04 regarding Commissioner Compensation & Per Diem
• Resolution 11-18-25-02 for LRIP Grant Sponsorship in Borgholm Township
• Consideration of 2026 Avivo MFIP-DWP Contract and Agreement with SpyGlass Group LLC

The Mille Lacs County Board adopted several resolutions, including septic system abatements and a fee‑schedule public hearing. It approved upgrades to boardroom audio‑visual equipment and a cooperative child‑support program. The board also authorized the purchase of a $179,957.30 Ford Super Duty mechanic’s truck, sponsored a Borgholm Township road grant, and set 2026 commissioner compensation and per‑diem rates.

• Adopted Resolution 11-18-25-01: Septic System Abatements (unanimous)
• Approved scheduling of the Fee Schedule Public Hearing (unanimous)
• Approved boardroom audio‑visual equipment upgrade for $60,334.00 (4‑0 vote)
• Approved cooperative child‑support program agreements (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 2026 Ford Super Duty F‑550 mechanic’s truck for $179,957.30 (4‑1 vote)
• Adopted Resolution 11-18-25-02: LRIP Grant Sponsorship for Borgholm Township (unanimous)
• Approved revised County Attorney’s Office position descriptions (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 11-18-25-04: Commissioner compensation $30,000 and per‑diem rates (unanimous)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Planning Commission will meet on November 10, 2025 at 6:00 PM. The commission will consider a request from Rebecca Haukos for a septic system variance. It will also consider a request from Brian Koski for a conditional use permit for a supply/contractor yard. Standard agenda items such as call to order, pledge of allegiance, and approval of minutes are also on the agenda.

• Septic system variance request – Rebecca Haukos
• Conditional use permit request for a supply/contractor yard – Brian Koski

The commission unanimously approved the October 13, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved Rebecca Haukos’s septic‑system variance and Brian Koski’s conditional‑use permit (with employee limit raised to 15). The board then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved October 13, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved Rebecca Haukos septic‑system variance (5-0)
• Approved Rebecca Haukos septic‑system variance (second motion, 5-0)
• Approved Brian Koski conditional‑use permit with 15 employees allowed (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will review and vote on several items, including a right‑of‑way purchase for County State‑Aid Highway 3. Other agenda items include reviewing elected salaries for 2026, a grant agreement for the SWCD Ag Inspector, and several resolutions from various county offices. The meeting also includes a work session on revised tax‑forfeiture statutes and standard committee reports.

• Consider SP 048‑603‑003 CSAH 3 – Right of Way Purchase
• Review Elected Salaries for 2026
• Review SWCD Ag Inspector Grant Agreement
• Consider Resolution 11‑04‑25‑01: Operation Green Light
• Consider Resolution 11‑04‑25‑02: Nuclear Energy

The board unanimously approved the agenda and the consent agenda. It adopted the Planning Commission’s recommendation for a 10‑acre minimum lot size and 600‑foot width in the Agricultural district. The board unanimously approved Resolution 11‑04‑25‑01 designating November 1‑11, 2025 as Operation Green Light for veterans. It also unanimously approved Resolution 11‑04‑25‑02, joining the Minnesota Nuclear Energy Alliance and urging repeal of the state nuclear moratorium.

• Approved agenda (unanimously)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimously)
• Adopted Planning Commission recommendation (4-1)
• Approved Resolution 11-04-25-01 Operation Green Light (unanimously)
• Approved Resolution 11-04-25-02 Nuclear Energy resolution (unanimously)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimously)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will meet to discuss personnel pay and insurance for 2026. The board is also reviewing opioid settlement grants and a right-of-way acquisition for Highway 23.

• 2026 Uniform Pay Scale and 2026 Non-Union Insurance Contributions
• MNDOT Right-of-Way Acquisition and Temporary Easement for Highway 23
• Public hearing for a proposed name on a waterway
• Opioid Settlement Grants
• CSAH 2/TH 23 ADA Improvements

The board approved the sheriff’s appointment of a new administrative assistant, approved opioid settlement grants and authorized the County Administrator to execute related documents, approved the 2026 uniform pay scale and non‑union insurance contributions, approved the MNDOT right‑of‑way acquisition and temporary easement for Highway 23, and approved staff authorization to apply for SPRA grant funding. All motions passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 9:47 a.m.

• Approved sheriff’s appointment of new Administrative Assistant (unanimous)
• Approved opioid settlement grants and authorized execution of documents (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Uniform Pay Scale and 2026 Non‑Union Insurance contributions (unanimous)
• Approved MNDOT Right‑of‑Way Acquisition and Temporary Easement for Highway 23 (unanimous)
• Approved authorization for staff to apply for SPRA grant funding (unanimous)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Planning Commission will review a county‑requested amendment to the development ordinance that affects zoning. It will also hear four variance applications: a public road frontage variance for Michael & Deborah Tabbert, a non‑conforming structure deck expansion variance for Joshua Breitung, a public road frontage variance for Justis Jedlicki, and a single‑family dwelling addition variance for George Sell.

• Development ordinance amendment regarding zoning (requested by Mille Lacs County)
• Public road frontage variance – Michael & Deborah Tabbert
• Non‑conforming structure deck expansion variance – Joshua Breitung
• Public road frontage variance – Justis Jedlicki
• Single‑family dwelling addition variance – George Sell

The Planning Commission voted 5-1 to amend the Development Ordinance, setting the Agricultural district minimum lot size to five acres with a 300‑foot minimum width. One member opposed the change. The commission also unanimously approved four separate variance requests for road frontage, a deck expansion, and a single‑family dwelling addition.

• Amended Agriculture district minimum lot size to five acres and width to 300 ft (5-1)
• Approved public road frontage variance for Michael & Deborah Tabbert (6-0)
• Approved non‑conforming deck expansion variance for Joshua Breitung (6-0)
• Approved public road frontage variance for Justis Jedlicki (6-0)
• Approved single‑family dwelling addition variance for George Sell (6-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will review and vote on several public‑works items, including a MnDOT TH‑27 agreement, a gravel‑crushing contract, and repairs to the historic courthouse stack. The board will also consider applying for solar‑panel grant funding and snow‑removal proposals for the county campus. Additional agenda items cover service awards, personnel updates, and a transportation agreement for children in foster care.

• Resolution 10-07-25-02: MnDOT TH‑27 Agreement Project 4804‑23
• Award for 2025 Gravel Crushing Project
• Consider Historic Courthouse Stack Repair
• Authorization to Apply for Solar Panel Grant Funding
• Consider Snow Removal Proposals for Cleaning the Campus

The board unanimously adopted Resolution 10-07-25-02, entering the MnDOT TH 27 Agreement for shared‑use path and related construction. It also approved several contracts and policy updates, including a $154,500 gravel‑crushing award and a $24,650 historic courthouse repair. Additional actions included accepting third‑quarter donations, a transportation agreement for foster‑care children, and a temporary assessor position.

• Adopted Resolution 10-07-25-02 MnDOT TH 27 Agreement Project 4804-23 (unanimously carried)
• Approved award to Knife River for Class V aggregate, $154,500 (unanimously carried)
• Approved historic courthouse stack repair, $24,650 to Sentra‑Sota Sheet Metal Inc (unanimously carried)
• Approved Transportation Agreement for Children in Foster Care with Milaca Schools (unanimously carried)
• Approved Personnel Policy Update (unanimously carried)
• Approved Temporary Additional Assessor Position in the County Assessor’s Office (unanimously carried)
• Approved Department of Natural Resources Letter of Support (unanimously carried)
• Adopted Resolution 10-07-25-01 accepting donations and gifts for Q3 2025 (unanimously carried)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will discuss several resolutions, including a public hearing to rename a waterway and the adoption of the 2026 Preliminary Levy. They will also review position descriptions for senior fiscal staff and approve the final acceptance of the CSAH 1 reconstruction project. Additional items include contract amendments for R & R Septic and updates on library and health educator roles.

• Resolution 09-16-25-02: 2026 Preliminary Levy
• Resolution 09-16-25-01: Public Hearing for Renaming Waterway
• Final Acceptance of SAP 048-601-035 – CSAH 1 Reconstruction
• R & R Septic Contract Amendments (Consent Agenda)
• Consider new Senior Fiscal Officer and Chief Financial Officer Position Descriptions

The Mille Lacs County Board unanimously approved the 2026 Preliminary Levy of $26,027,922, a 3% increase over 2025. It also adopted a resolution ordering a public hearing on October 21 to rename an unnamed watercourse. Additional unanimous actions included approving R&R Septic contract amendments, updated health educator and senior fiscal officer/Chief Financial Officer position descriptions, new bank signatories, and final acceptance of the CSAH 1 reconstruction project.

• Approved 2026 Preliminary Levy of $26,027,922 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 09-16-25-01 to hold public hearing for waterway renaming (unanimous)
• Approved R & R Septic Contract Amendments (unanimous)
• Approved Updated Health Educator Position Description (unanimous)
• Approved Senior Fiscal Officer and Chief Financial Officer position descriptions and recruitment (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 09-16-25-03 designating Doug Hansen and Dillon Hayes as bank signatories (unanimous)
• Approved Final Acceptance of CSAH 1 Reconstruction for $339,280.01 (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and agenda amendments (unanimous)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Planning Commission will meet to review several zoning and variance requests, including a property rezone by Tom Henry and septic system variances by Tony Roback, Andrew Miklesh, and Ann Peck. The body will also consider a county-initiated amendment to the Development Ordinance.

• Consideration of a Property Rezone Request by Tom Henry
• Consideration of a Septic System Variance Request by Tony Roback
• Consideration of OHWL Setback and Non-Conforming Structure Variances by Andrew Miklesh
• Consideration of OHWL Setback and Non-Conforming Structure Variances by Ann Peck
• Consideration of a Development Ordinance Amendment regarding Zoning by Mille Lacs County

The Planning Commission approved a commercial rezoning request for Tom Henry and approved septic, setback, and non‑conforming structure variances for Tony Roback, Andrew Miklesh, and Ann Peck, each with a 6‑0 vote. The commission also voted to table a development ordinance amendment concerning zoning. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved Tom Henry commercial rezoning request (6-0)
• Approved Tony Roback septic system variance (6-0)
• Approved Andrew Miklesh OHWL setback and non‑conforming structure variance (6-0)
• Approved Ann Peck OHWL setback and non‑conforming structure variance (6-0)
• Tabled development ordinance amendment regarding zoning (6-0)
• Approved August 11, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will discuss several consent agenda items, including the sale of a retired squad car and the sale of county fleet and public works vehicles through Enterprise. The board will also consider a contract with Data Cloud Solutions for MobileAssessor software and quotes to replace the Justice Center generator base tank. In a work session, board members will review the 2026‑2030 Capital Improvement Plan and the 2026 budget.

• Consider the sale of retired Squad Car Unit 25
• Consider the sale of County fleet and Public Works vehicles through Enterprise
• Consider contract with Data Cloud Solutions for MobileAssessor software
• Consider quotes to replace the Justice Center generator base tank
• Review 2026‑2030 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and 2026 budget

The board unanimously approved the agenda and consent agenda items. It also unanimously approved the planning commission recommendation and the Support Services Supervisor position description. A 4‑1 vote approved selling county fleet and Public Works vehicles via Enterprise. Finally, the board unanimously approved seeking quotes to replace the Justice Center generator base tank for $28,830.

• Approved agenda (additions and deletions) – unanimous
• Approved consent agenda – unanimous
• Approved planning commission recommendation – unanimous
• Approved Support Services Supervisor position description and recruitment – unanimous
• Approved sale of county fleet and Public Works vehicles through Enterprise (4-1)
• Approved consideration of quotes to replace Justice Center generator base tank for $28,830 – unanimous
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will consider three resolutions authorizing and executing real estate transactions. They will also review a revised job description for an Administrative Financial Specialist. Additional items include a memorandum of understanding with Teamsters Local 320 and a resolution to establish UOCAVA and SAF ballot boards for the November special election.

• Resolution 08-19-25-03: Authorization to approve and execute a real estate transaction
• Resolution 08-19-25-04: Authorization to approve and execute a real estate transaction
• Resolution 08-19-25-02: Agreement (details not specified)
• Consider revised Administrative Financial Specialist position description
• Consider MOU with Teamsters Local 320

The board unanimously approved the purchase of four lots in Eriksonville, establishing an absentee ballot board for UOCAVA and Safe‑at‑Home voters. It also approved contracts for door controls ($21,715) and security cameras ($24,480) at the Ericksonville facility, and adopted several administrative and planning recommendations.

• Approved acquisition of Eriksonville Lots 3,4,13,14 (PID 14-240-0100 & 14-240-0150) – unanimous
• Established UOCAVA and Safe‑at‑Home absentee ballot board – unanimous
• Approved Ericksonville Facility Door Controls contract with Electro Watchman, Inc. for $21,715 – unanimous
• Approved Ericksonville Facility Security Cameras CCTV contract with Electro Watchman, Inc. for $24,480 – unanimous
• Approved Planning Commission recommendation for Conditional Use Permit – unanimous
• Approved revised Administrative Financial Specialist position description – unanimous
• Adopted Resolution 08-19-25-03 authorizing real‑estate transaction – unanimous
• Adopted Resolution 08-19-25-04 authorizing real‑estate transaction – unanimous

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Planning Commission will review variance requests from three individuals. The commission will also consider an amendment to the Development Ordinance regarding variances.

• Variance request by Sharon Osborn
• Variance request by David Jurek
• Variance request by Todd Dunbar
• Development Ordinance Amendment regarding variances requested by Mille Lacs County

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment unanimously approved three variance requests from Sharon Osborn, one from David Jurek, and one from Todd Dunbar. The board also approved Mille Lacs County’s development ordinance amendment regarding variances. All motions passed with a 6‑0 vote.

• Approved Sharon Osborn variance request (split property) – 6-0
• Approved second Sharon Osborn variance request (split property) – 6-0
• Approved David Jurek variance request (sell land portion) – 6-0
• Approved Todd Dunbar variance request (deck and garage addition) – 6-0
• Approved Mille Lacs County development ordinance amendment on variances – 6-0

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will review several budget items and agency reports. A key item is the consideration of the Rum River 1W1P Joint Powers Agreement by the Land Services Office. Other agenda points include a vehicle theft grant initiative, a purchase agreement for real property, and a review of the county's energy cooperative tax settlement.

• Consider Rum River 1W1P Joint Powers Agreement
• Consider Aitkin, Itasca, Mille Lacs Vehicle Theft Initiative Grant and JPA
• Consider Purchase Agreement for the Purchase of Real Property
• Review Mille Lacs Energy Cooperative Tax Court Settlement
• Consider Budget Amendment to purchase additional mobile radios

The Mille Lacs County Board approved the Rum River 1W1P Joint Powers Agreement, appointing Commissioner Whitcomb as primary and Commissioner Bjornson as alternate to the JPE Board. The board also unanimously approved the Aitkin, Itasca, Mille Lacs Vehicle Theft Initiative Grant and JPA, a purchase agreement for real property with a post‑closing occupancy agreement, and an agreement with SAVI. All motions were carried and the meeting adjourned at 10:06 a.m.

• Approve Rum River 1W1P Joint Powers Agreement (4-1)
• Appoint Whitcomb as primary and Bjornson as alternate to Rum River Watershed JPE Board (4-1)
• Approve Aitkin, Itasca, Mille Lacs Vehicle Theft Initiative Grant and JPA (unanimous)
• Approve purchase agreement for real property with post‑closing occupancy agreement (unanimous)
• Approve agreement with SAVI (unanimous)
• Approve agenda (unanimous)
• Approve consent agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Planning Commission will review four applications for variances and one application for a conditional use permit. Each request will be discussed and a decision may be made at this meeting. No other business items are listed beyond these land‑use applications.

• Variance request by Tim Marinan
• Variance request by Stephen Tideman
• Variance request by Ed Slaga
• Variance request by Kenneth Bergstrom
• Conditional Use Permit request by Kenneth Bergstrom

The Mille Lacs Planning Commission unanimously approved variance requests from Tim Marinan, Stephen Tideman, and Ed Slaga. The board also approved a conditional use permit for Kenneth Bergstrom's healthcare waste business. All motions passed with a 6‑0 vote.

• Approved Tim Marinan variance (6-0)
• Approved Stephen Tideman variance (6-0)
• Approved Ed Slaga variance (6-0)
• Approved Kenneth Bergstrom conditional use permit (6-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will meet to discuss a cannabis business ordinance amendment and the purchase of oblique and ortho imagery. The board is also considering a grant application for the Soo Line Trail and a contract for CSAH 2 right-of-way services.

• Cannabis Business Ordinance Amendment
• Resolution 07-15-25-01: Sale of Tax-Forfeited Land
• Greater Minnesota Legacy Grant Application for the Soo Line Trail
• Resolution 07-15-25-04: Award 2025 HSIP Pavement Markings
• Professional Services Proposal for CSAH 2 Right-of-Way Services

The board approved the public sale of tax‑forfeited land listed on Official Land Sale List #65. It also approved a cannabis business ordinance amendment, a purchase of aerial imagery, a grant application for the Soo Line Trail, a personnel policy amendment, and contracts for county‑wide pavement markings and right‑of‑way services. Committee appointment motions were split, with one failing and a second carrying.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved sale of tax‑forfeited land (Resolution 07‑15‑25‑01)
• Approved cannabis business ordinance amendment (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of oblique and ortho imagery using land‑based unallocated fund (unanimous)
• Adopted Greater Minnesota Legacy Grant resolution for Soo Line Trail (unanimous)
• Approved personnel policy amendment (unanimous)
• Accepted bid of $293,991.04 for county‑wide pavement markings (unanimous)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will conduct a public hearing to consider amendments to the Cannabis Licensing Ordinance. The board will also act on a consent agenda that includes items such as an out‑of‑state travel request, a vehicle lease through NCL Government Capital, and a resolution to authorize charitable gambling. Additional agenda items cover a review of a part‑time deputy position, purchase of imagery for a 2026 spring flight, and a purchase agreement with South Harbor Township.

• Public Hearing to Amend the Cannabis Licensing Ordinance
• Consider Out of State Travel Request
• Consider Vehicle Lease through NCL Government Capital
• Review Purchase of Oblique and Ortho Imagery‑Pictometry for 2026 Spring Flight
• Consider Purchase Agreement with South Harbor Township

The board approved an exempt temporary gambling permit for Milaca Fire Relief to hold a raffle and pull‑tabs at Stones Throw Golf Course in Milaca Township on July 12, 2025. It also approved a temporary liquor permit for Rum River Trail Association to serve alcohol at 3708 Baptist Church Rd, Princeton Township on August 22‑23, 2025. The board authorized a final payment of $167,637.62 to BCI Construction, Inc. for the completed SAP 048‑040‑001 project at the Mille Lacs County Milaca Shop. Additionally, the board accepted a purchase agreement with South Harbor Township and approved the Planning Commission’s recommendation (details not specified). All actions were approved unanimously.

• Approved exempt temporary gambling permit for Milaca Fire Relief raffle (unanimously)
• Approved temporary liquor permit for Rum River Trail Association (unanimously)
• Authorized final payment of $167,637.62 to BCI Construction, Inc. for SAP 048‑040‑001 (unanimously)
• Accepted purchase agreement with South Harbor Township (unanimously)
• Approved Planning Commission recommendation (unanimously)
• Approved agenda amendments (unanimously)
• Approved consent agenda amendments (unanimously)
• Approved June 17, 2025 Board meeting minutes as amended (unanimously)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Planning Commission will consider three applications at this meeting. Two variance requests are from Craig Linbo and Logan’s Excavating. A conditional use permit request is from William and Anita Eshleman. No decisions have been made yet.

• Variance request submitted by Craig Linbo
• Conditional Use Permit request submitted by William and Anita Eshleman
• Variance request submitted by Logan’s Excavating

The commission unanimously approved Craig Linbo’s variance to add a bedroom and update utilities (6‑0). It also approved William and Anita Eshleman’s conditional use permit for a second ADA‑compliant dwelling (6‑0). Finally, Logan’s Excavating received a variance for a septic system and related site work (7‑0). All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved Craig Linbo variance for bedroom addition and code updates (6-0)
• Approved William and Anita Eshleman conditional use permit for second dwelling (6-0)
• Approved Logan's Excavating variance for septic system and site work (7-0)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold a public hearing on an amendment to the cannabis license ordinance. The board will also consider the sale of a 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe squad car, street‑closing permits for Milaca and Bock, and a purchase of Microsoft Intune MDM. Additional items include a performance measures program resolution and committee appointments. A work session will discuss economic development strategic planning and a Soo Line Trail grant review.

• Consider sale of 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe squad car
• Consider street closing permits – City of Milaca (Rhythm on the Rum) and City of Bock (4th of July, Santa Days)
• Public hearing for cannabis license ordinance amendment
• Consider purchase of Microsoft Intune MDM
• Consider Resolution 06-17-25-01: Performance Measures Program

The board unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda. It also approved the purchase of Microsoft Intune MDM and adopted Resolution 06-17-25-01 establishing a Performance Measures Program. A motion to table committee appointments was carried with a 3‑2 vote, postponing those appointments to the July 15, 2025 meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 9:33 a.m.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Microsoft Intune MDM (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 06-17-25-01 Performance Measures Program (unanimous)
• Tabled committee appointments until July 15, 2025 (3-2 vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:33 a.m. (unanimous)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold its regular meeting, beginning with standard procedural items such as call to order, pledge of allegiance, and agenda approval. The primary substantive item is agenda item 4.1 concerning the County Board of Appeal and Equalization. No further details are provided in the agenda.

• County Board of Appeal & Equalization – agenda item 4.1

The board approved the meeting agenda without opposition. It then unanimously accepted the assessor's recommendations for properties 24-785-0120 and 24-785-0140, as well as for Mr. Helmbrecht's six parcels. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved agenda (unanimously)
• Approved Assessor recommendation for property 24-785-0120 (unanimously)
• Approved Assessor recommendation for property 24-785-0140 (unanimously)
• Approved Assessor recommendations for Mr. Helmbrecht's properties (unanimously)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimously)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will vote on several consent agenda items, including a request from the East Central Solid Waste Commission and a purchase of Tyler Technologies records‑management software for 2026. The regular agenda includes a resolution related to the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act and a review of SSTS abatement bids. Additional items cover new hires, mileage reimbursements, and other routine approvals.

• Consider East Central Solid Waste Commission Certificate of Need Request
• Consider Tyler Technologies Records Management Software Purchase for 2026
• Consider Resolution 06-03-25-01 regarding the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act
• Consider SSTS Abatement Bids
• Review May 2025 New Hires and Leaves

The board unanimously adopted Resolution 06-03-25-01, accepting authority to implement the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act for the portion of Princeton within the county. It approved low‑bid contracts from R&R Septic for SSTS design, permitting and installation at three properties, with a 5‑1 vote. The agenda and consent agenda were approved unanimously, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Adopted Resolution 06-03-25-01 on Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act (unanimous)
• Approved low bids of $18,900, $19,900, $19,900 for SSTS design, permitting, installation (5-1)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will review and vote on several items, including an emergency dishwasher purchase for the jail, revisions to the Soo Line Trail Ordinance, and a five‑year HVAC service agreement. The board will also consider the 2025‑2027 AFSCME bargaining unit contract, technology services position description changes, and liquor license renewals. Additional reports from the Planning Commission, DAC, MCIT, and Public Works will be presented.

• Ratify emergency purchase of a dishwasher for the county jail
• Consider revisions to the Soo Line Trail Ordinance
• Consider a five‑year semi‑annual HVAC service agreement
• Consider 2025‑2027 bargaining unit contract documents with AFSCME
• Review technology services position description revisions

The Mille Lacs County Board unanimously approved the agenda and consent agenda, removed item 4.8 for discussion, and authorized an emergency purchase of a dishwasher for the jail. It also approved two development ordinance amendments (personal-use airports and supply/contractor yards), amended the Soo Line Trail Ordinance, and adopted a five‑year semi‑annual HVAC service agreement. The meeting was adjourned at 10:12 a.m.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda, removing item 4.8 (unanimous)
• Approved emergency dishwasher purchase for jail (unanimous)
• Approved Development Ordinance Amendment for Personal-Use Airports (unanimous)
• Approved Development Ordinance Amendment for Supply/Contractor Yards (unanimous)
• Approved amendments to the Soo Line Trail Ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved Five-Year Semi-Annual HVAC Service Agreement (unanimous)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold a regular meeting to review financial information and discuss 2026 budget goals. The board will consider a land acquisition for Kathio State Park and a public hearing on Soo Line Trail safety regulations. Items include purchasing a video server, awarding a pavement markings project, and appointing the county engineer.

• Public Hearing on Soo Line Trail Rules & Safety Regulations
• Kathio State Park Land Acquisition
• Purchase of an Avigilon Network Video Recording Server
• Award for 2025 Pavement Markings Project
• Resolution 05-06-25-03: County Engineer Appointment

The board unanimously appointed Wesley Davis as County Engineer for an initial one‑year term. It also approved the purchase of an Avigilon video‑recording server, adopted several ordinance amendments, and awarded a $131,861.57 pavement‑markings contract to KAMCO Inc. Additional resolutions recognizing Correctional Staff Week and appointing agricultural inspectors were adopted.

• Approved purchase of Avigilon NVR server with installation (unanimous)
• Approved final plat for Natures Edge (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance amendments LSO 2025‑01, 2025‑02, 2025‑03, 2025‑05 (unanimous)
• Tabled ordinance amendment LSO 2025‑04 for clarification (unanimous)
• Tabled ordinance amendment LSO 2025‑06 for clarification (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 05‑06‑25‑01 recognizing National Correctional Officers Week (unanimous)
• Appointed Wesley Davis as County Engineer for a one‑year term (unanimous)
• Awarded $131,861.57 pavement markings contract to KAMCO Inc. (unanimous)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will discuss and vote on a range of items, including a surface improvement project on County Road 145. Other agenda items cover policy revisions, charitable gambling authorization, opioid settlement agreements, and a new labor contract with Teamsters Local No. 320. The meeting also includes a work session on economic development planning and the county administrator's report.

• Consider CR 145 Surface Improvement Project Bids
• Consider Authorization to Solicit Proposals for SSTS Abatements
• Consider Opioid Settlement Agreements
• Consider 2025-2027 Bargaining Unit Contract with Teamsters Local No. 320
• Consider Resolution 04-15-25-01: Authorizing Charitable Gambling

The board unanimously approved several items, including authorizing staff to solicit proposals for septic system abatements and using contingency funds for those abatements. It also approved the Mille Lacs Health System Social Worker request while tabling the Sheriff’s Office request, accepted a third position on the SCDP loan, and ratified a 2025‑2027 contract with Teamsters Local No. 320. The CR 145 surface improvement project bid was awarded to Anderson Brothers for $922,931.27. The meeting adjourned at 10:03 a.m.

• Authorized staff to solicit proposals for septic system abatements (unanimous)
• Approved use of contingency funds for septic system abatements (unanimous)
• Approved Mille Lacs Health System Social Worker request; tabbed Sheriff’s Office request (unanimous)
• Accepted third position on SCDP loan and executed supporting documents (unanimous)
• Approved 2025‑2027 bargaining unit contract with Teamsters Local No. 320 (unanimous)
• Awarded CR 145 surface improvement project bid to Anderson Brothers for $922,931.27 (unanimous)

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Planning Commission meeting on April 14, 2025 will review a series of requests. Items include a final plat request from KNB Property, LLC, variance requests from John Karpinsky and Sheldon Pool, and several development ordinance amendment requests from the county covering definitions, retail cannabis operations, certificates, personal-use airports, rural event venues, and supply/contractor yards. The commission will discuss and decide on each of these items.

• Final plat request by KNB Property, LLC
• Variance request by John Karpinsky
• Variance request by Sheldon Pool
• Development ordinance amendment regarding retail cannabis operations
• Development ordinance amendment regarding personal-use airports

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will consider several resolutions, including the sale of tax‑forfeited land (Resolution 04‑01‑25‑01) and the adoption of the County Hazard Mitigation Plan (Resolution 04‑01‑25‑03). The board will also act on a revised receipts policy, a contract for emergency‑management training, and procurement items such as a used forklift and a plow truck. Additional items include commissioners' mileage and per‑diem rates, new hires, and a bargaining‑unit contract with Local 49.

• Resolution 04‑01‑25‑01: Sale of tax‑forfeited land
• Resolution 04‑01‑25‑03: Adoption of the Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Consent agenda item 4.1: Revised receipts policy
• Consent agenda item 4.2: Paramount Planning contract for emergency‑management training
• Consent agenda item 4.6: Purchase of used forklift

The board unanimously approved a public sale of all parcels on Official Land Sale List #63, with bids to be posted online from April 7 to April 20, 2025. It also adopted the Mille Lacs County 2024 Hazard Mitigation Plan and declared April 13‑19, 2025 as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. Additionally, the board scheduled a public hearing on revisions to the Soo Line Trail rules for May 6, 2025, and approved the 2025‑2027 bargaining unit contract with Local 49. All actions were carried out by unanimous vote.

• Approved public sale of tax‑forfeited land (unanimous)
• Adopted Mille Lacs County 2024 Hazard Mitigation Plan (unanimous)
• Declared National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (unanimous)
• Approved 2025‑2027 bargaining unit contract with Local 49 (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing on Soo Line Trail revisions for May 6, 2025 (unanimous)
• Amended consent agenda to remove items 4.3 and 4.6 (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:18 a.m. (unanimous)

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will review the Soo Line Trail Ordinance, the 2023 audit, and the County Administrator's report. They will consider several consent agenda items, including a revised general ledger policy, a 2024‑26 State‑County Civil Rights Assurance Agreement, CVS and Administrator warrants, Ericksonville bids, and a request to apply for Congressionally Directed Spending. The regular agenda includes a review of February 2025 new hires and the Tyler Technology Cashiering Module. The meeting will conclude with committee reports and adjournment.

• Revised General Ledger Account Maintenance Policy
• 2024‑26 State‑County Civil Rights Assurance Agreement
• Authorization to Apply for Congressionally Directed Spending Request
• Tyler Technology Cashiering Module
• Ericksonville Bids

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will vote on an amendment to the jail medical contract with Advanced Correctional Healthcare (ACH). The agenda also includes resolutions on a revised gambling permit for Milaca Golf Club, MNDOT detour agreements, and a purchase for the sheriff's office dog kennel. Additional items cover public works equipment transactions, a rural dental grant, and a charitable gambling donation for Ducks Unlimited.

• Amendment to jail medical contract with Advanced Correctional Healthcare (ACH)
• Resolution 03-04-25-02: revisions to approved gambling permit for Milaca Golf Club
• Resolution 03-04-25-04 and 03-04-25-05: MNDOT detour agreements (SP 4906-28 and SP 4811-77)
• Consider Sheriff's Office dog kennel purchase
• Accept Mille Lacs County Rural Dental Connection Grant

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will review several items, including a temporary MNDOT easement, planning commission recommendations, and a resolution on the MRSC Comprehensive Plan. They will also discuss a masonry, preservation, maintenance, and repair project, an application for a Natural Resources Block Grant, and the replacement of Boiler #1 at the Community Veteran's Services Building. A closed session will be held to discuss litigation. The meeting includes a work session with reports and tours.

• Consider Temporary MNDOT Easement
• Consider Masonry, Preservation, Maintenance, and Repair Project
• Consider Applying for the Board of Water and Soil Resources Natural Resources Block Grant
• Consider Replacement of Community Veteran's Services Building Boiler #1
• Consider Sale and Purchase of Public Works Equipment

Planning Commission / Board of Adjustment

The Mille Lacs County Planning Commission will discuss two individual requests: one submitted by Barry Green of Timber Bay Camp and another by Thomas Enger. No further details about the nature of the requests are provided in the agenda. The meeting also includes routine items such as calling the meeting to order, a pledge of allegiance, approval of the January 13, 2025 minutes, and adjournment.

• Approval of the January 13, 2025 meeting minutes
• Consideration of a request by Barry Green, Timber Bay Camp
• Consideration of a request by Thomas Enger

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will hold a regular meeting with a work session on economic development strategic planning. The board will consider a consent agenda that includes items such as a flexible schedule policy, out‑of‑state training, citizen appointments, repurchase of tax‑forfeited property, and a contract with Avivo for MFIP/DWP services. The regular agenda contains recommendations from the Planning Commission, personnel appointments, the addition of two eligibility worker positions, an extension of an interim engineer agreement with Isanti County, a collective bargaining agreement, and a professional services proposal for a CSAH 2 highway right‑of‑way plat.

• Consider 2025 contract with Avivo for MFIP/DWP services
• Consider Repurchase of Tax Forfeited property (Resolution 02-04-25-01)
• Consider Professional Services Proposal for CSAH 2 Highway Right of Way Plat
• Consider the addition of two eligibility worker positions
• Consider extension of interim engineer agreement with Isanti County

County Board

The Mille Lacs County Board will consider a range of items on its January 21, 2025 meeting, including contract extensions, property tax policy updates, and technology purchases. A key decision is the approval of funding from the opioid settlement. Additional agenda items cover a patrol vehicle purchase, a vehicle sale, and solicitation of bids for the Ericksonville project.

• Consider Republic Services recycling contract extension
• Consider county property tax abatement policy update
• Consider opioid settlement funding approval
• Consider patrol vehicle purchase
• Consider authorization to solicit bids for Ericksonville project

Planning Commission

The Mille Lacs County Planning Commission will elect its leadership and review several land use requests. The body will consider a preliminary plat, a conditional use permit, and a rezoning request.

• Preliminary Plat request by KNB Property, LLC
• Conditional Use Permit request by Francis (Marty) Branch
• Rezone request by Joseph Bontrager
• Request by Michael Hagel

County Board

The County Board will elect a Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson for 2025 and set the year's meeting dates. The board is considering several contracts, including an agreement with the Central Minnesota Mental Health Center and a work order for the HCH Ceiling Project. Other business includes appointing committee delegates and reviewing personnel policy revisions.

• Election of 2025 Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson
• CY2025 Contract with Central Minnesota Mental Health Center
• Work Order Contract for HCH Ceiling Project
• Resolution 01-07-25-01: Approval of Gambling for Brandt's Ice Fishing
• Benton Telecommunication Grant