Cook County District 3

County Board Meeting held February 28, 2012

2012-02-28T20:28:00.000-08:00

County Board Chair Jan Hall, along with Commissioners Hakes, Martinson and Sobanja were all in attendance at today's County Board meeting. Commissioner Jim Johnson was absent due to illness. Also present were Auditor Braidy Powers and Personnel Director Janet Simonen.

Public Comment
Molly Hoffman expressed desire for more public input in the Community Center project.

Law Enforcement
The Board authorized the purchase of an emergency restraint chair for $1595 as requested by Sheriff Falk. This purchase was budgeted for $2000.

Highway Department
The Board authorized the purchase of (1) pole pruner at a cost of $659 to replace the old pruner that failed. The Board also authorized the purchase of a used 2004 Mitsubishi forklift for $14,700 to replace the 1970 Hyster forklift. $36,000 was budgeted for the purchase of a (new) forklift; instead a good used forklift was bought.

Board Chair Jan Hall expressed concern to David Betts and Russ Klegstad about the brushing and clearing currently in progress on the Chicago Bay Road. Hall has received several calls of complaint.

Lutsen 99er Mountain Bike Race
The County Board approved a special event permit as requested from Adam Harju of Lifetime Fitness for the Lutsen 99er Mountain Bike race to be held on June 23, 2012. This is the 2nd year for this growing event. Letters of support were received from Lutsen Township and the Town of Tofte.

Office of Plannng & Zoning (OPZ)
The County Board approved (2) Solid Waste Hauler license renewals.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Schedule
Residential Household Hazardous Waste
Saturday, June 2 from 9 AM to 1 PM
Saturday, September 15 from 9 AM to 1 PM
Commercial (Clean Shop) Household Hazardous Waste
Friday, September 14 from 9 am to 1 PM

Lakeshore Septic Compliance Program
OPZ Director Tim Nelson informed the Board that 2012 would be a year for follow-up of completed septic inspections and planning for the next 10 years for the Lakeshore Septic Compliance Program. Cook County did not receive grant funding for 2012, so part of this year's focus will be seeking funds in support of the next ten years. Cook County surpassed its goals for first ten-years of the Lakeshore Septic Compliance Program.

New State Legislative Districts
Braidy Powers distributed information regarding State Redistricting. For more information about State Legislative Redistricting, go to http://cookcountydistrict3.blogspot.com/2012/02/redistricting-outcome.html. The redistricting deadline for the County is May 1, 2012. Powers said information will be provided to the public as the County moves through this process.

Minnesota Intelligent Rural Communities (MIRC) Grant
The Board voted to accept the Blandin Foundation MIRC Grant in the amount of $23,245 for the facilitation of broadband deployment in rural areas.

County Fees
The Board scheduled a PUBLIC HEARING on County fees for the Office of Planning & Zoning. This hearing is scheduled for March 13, 2012 at 10 AM in the Commissioner's Room.

County Fair
Due to a lack of support for a County Fair, the Cook County Fair is cancelled for 2012.

Proposed Voter ID Election Legislation
Braidy Powers alerted the County Board to some of the changes and associated costs that will have to occur if the Voter ID Election Legislation (SF1577) passes as a Constitutional Amendment this Fall.

Community Center Project
The County Board approved a letter of support to the Duluth Area Family YMCA to further explore partnering on the Cook County Community Center. The YMCA will first conduct an internal feasibility study. If the results of that study prove promising, the YMCA will contract with SEER Analytical to conduct an additional, independent analysis of the project. The County Board will consider funding part or all of the $5000 for this service.

MN Sheriff's Association Courts & Building Security Training
Commissioner Hakes reported on the 2-day MN Sheriff's Association Courts & Building Security Training she attended in Beltrami County with Sheriff Falk, County Probation Office Steve Borud and Assistant County Attorney Molly Hicken. Hakes said one of the key points stressed at the training was to learn how to recognize Highly Charged Emotional Events and to get a plan in place to deal appropriately with them. This training will be shared at the next meeting of the Courthouse Security Team.

Wetland Replacement Requirements Legislation
The County Board voted to support a resolution as recommended by the Arrowhead Counties Association to modify the wetland replacement requirements for counties with 80% or more of their pre-settlement wetlands remaining (HF2105).

School Trust Lands
Efforts are underway at the State Legislature (HF2244 and SF1889) to take away control of the school trust lands from the DNR to a trust manager from another state agency. County Land Commissioner Mary Black warned the County Board that if this happens, PILT (payment in lieu of tax) payments may not transfer to the new agency. Black and Braidy Powers will work to understand the negative impacts of this potential change while the Commissioners will lobby to prevent it.

Labor Negotiations
The meeting was closed for the County Board to discuss on-going labor negotiations.

Human Services and County Board Meetings held February 21, 2012

2012-02-25T12:20:00.000-08:00

Cook County Human Services Board Meeting
Human Services Board Chair Sue Hakes opened the meeting at 8:30 am. Other board members participating were Jan Hall, Jerry Lilja, Bruce Martinson, Fritz Sobanja. Carla LaPointe and Jim Johnson were excused.

Committee Reports
Committee reports were given by member representatives. If you are interested in learning more about Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency, Arrowhead Health Alliance, Arrowhead Regional Corrections, Community Health Board, Public Health & Human Services Advisory Committee, Health Care Planning or the North Shore Collaborative, please contact me and I'll connect you with the right person.

Elderly Waiver and Alternative Care Grant Funding Programs and Services
Barb Rasmussen, Cook County Social Worker, presented the Board with an overview of the Elderly Waiver (EW) and Alternative Care Grant (AC) programs and services she works to provide qualifying Cook County residents in need. Both EW and AC are funding mechanisms currently in place to provide in-home services to those 65 and older that wish to and are able to stay in their homes with the support of community services.

To determine eligibility for EW or AC, an assessment is conducted by a Long Term Care Consultation Team. To be eligible, an individual must be 65 years or older, meet nursing facility level of care criteria, be eligible for medical assistance (EW), or have income and assets to pay for more more than 135 days of nursing facility services (AC). Examples of services provided in the EW program are in-home meals and emergency phone equipment. The AC program provides day care, skilled nursing, housekeeping services and more.

Rasmussen currently manages 5 Elderly Waiver cases and 1 Alternative Care case for Cook County. Clearly the management of these cases is complicated, but according to Rasmussen "it works!". And, due to the competence and diligence of Rasmussen, "it works well".

Trauncy Process
Grace Bushard, Social Services Supervisor, updated the Board on a new process to address Truancy at ISD 166 Cook County Schools. MN State Law requires students attend school every day. A student who is absent (3) or more days in a school year without being excused by a parent or guardian is a "continuing truant" by state law. If truancy continues a student is considered a "habitual truant" and this can lead to serious consequences. Bushard, the Cook County Attorney's Office, the School Community Action Team (SCAT) are all working with the school, parents, and students to address the truancy problem in ISD166. 19 families met with Assistant County Attorney Hicken and Social Services to understand the consequences of truancy and sign an Attendance Contract between the student, parent/guardian and school.

Director's Report--Sue Futterer
Public Health and Human Services Director Sue Futterer reported on the recent Region 3 Redesign Meeting noting that Child Support will be the next area considered. (Redesign is about finding better ways to provide services to Minnesotans and Region 3 Human Services has been a leader in this effort.)

Futterer reported that TEXT4Life, a suicide prevention hotline for teens, is catching on. So far, approximately 3-6 text messages/day are being received from teens in the 7 participating NE Minnesota Counties. This number is roughly equal to all telephone calls being received statewide. The suicide rate in Northern Minnesota is higher than average; this program was born out of efforts to change that.

With regrets, Futterer asked the Board to accept the letter of resignation from Amy Lacina, RN/PHN. The Board did so, and also approved Futterer's request to advertise to fill the Public Health Nurse vacancy left by Lacina.

Cook County Board Meeting
Board Chair Jan Hall and Commissioners Hakes, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for the February 21 County Board Meeting. Jim Johnson was absent due to health issues. Also present were Braidy Powers and Janet Simonen.

Public Comment
No member of the public opted to address the County Board.

Mush for a Cure Fun Run
The County Board approved the special event permit for the Mush for the Cure Fun Run to be held March 9-11 on the Gunflint Trail.

Board of Appeal and Equalization Meeting
The Cook County Board of Appeal and Equalization Meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 12, 2012 at 6:30 pm in the County Commissioner's Room. In an effort to ensure that taxpayers will have equal time before the Board at this meeting, allotted appointment times will be given. Contact County Assessor Mary Black at mary.black@co.cook.mn.us or 218/387-3650 to learn more.

County Veteran's Service Officer Operational Improvement Grant
The Board accepted a $1400 Operational Improvement Grant to be used by Cook County Veteran Services Officer Clarence Everson for the purchase of approved equipment or training.

Support Services Agreement
The County Board authorized moving forward with a contract to allow County Integrated Financial Systems (IFS) users to access on-line training and support for the new version of our accounting software. The cost is $30/month and will be shared equally by PHHS and the Auditor's Office.

Architectural Services Payment
Last November, the County Board authorized Meyer Group up to $5,000 (plus reimbursable expenses budgeted at $750) for architectural services in designing a modest Recreation Building that would provide a space for ice skaters to warm up and change, store the zamboni and possibly provide concession space. Actual costs for this pre-design work were over $16,000 and Meyer Group requested an additional $5,000 for a total of $10,000. Pre-authorization for this overrun was not received, nor was it submitted to ORB Management for review prior to payment. The County Board authorized payment of $5,444.80 per the original authorization, subject to review by Attorney Tim Scannell.

Redistricting Outcome

2012-02-24T19:15:00.000-08:00

Click here to see the redistricting decisions made by the Special Redistricting Panel based on the 2010 census results.

Redistricting in NE Minnesota

2012-02-19T17:19:00.000-08:00

Read Aaron J. Brown's column on redistricting and its potential impact on NE Minnesota politics. The legislative and congressional redistricting deadline is this Tuesday, February 21. The deadline for County redistricting is May 1, 2012.

County Board Meeting on February 14, 2012

2012-02-14T21:26:00.000-08:00

County Board Chair Jan Hall, along with Commissioners Hakes, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for today's County Board Meeting. Commissioner Jim Johnson was absent due to health issues. Also in attendance were Braidy Powers and Janet Simonen.

Public Comment
No member of the public opted to address the County Board.

Highway Department
The County Board unanimously approved the purchase of one CAT 930H front end loader at a cost of $160,194.93 (plus extended warranty). The Board also approved (3-1 with Martinson opposed) the purchase of two Mack GU713 tandem axle dump trucks with dump truck boxes with plows, wings, sanders and underbellies at costs of $232,038 and $228,811 (plus extended warranties). The purchase of this equipment is in accordance with the Highway Department Equipment Replacement plan and were approved in the 2012 budget.

The County Board approved a proposal from Mn/DOT for the County to provide winter maintenance services for old T.H. 61 aka Rollins Creek Road. This agreement will be in effect through May 2012 and the County will be paid $3000 for this service.

Invasive Species
The Board approved a modification to a US Forest Service Grant to combat invasive species in Cook County. The modification will extend the existing agreement by $41,837 with a September 30, 2014 deadline for spending these funds. The required 20% match for this grant will be provided by in-kind volunteer work.

At the request of Michael Lynch, USFS Cook County Invasive Team Coordinator, the Board approved a request to support a grant application to the MN DNR for the creation and installation of invasive species boot brush signs at trailheads in Northeastern MN.

Dennis, Neitzke, USFS Gunflint District Ranger
District Ranger Dennis Neitzke provided the County Board with a brief update on current USFS issues:
a) The Secure Rural Schools Act (SRSA) ended in 2011. Re-authorization of this funding is anticipated for 2012, but at a reduced amount. Last year Cook County received $550,000 in SRSA funding which is shared with ISD166.
b) Dryness resulting from lack of snow this season is cause for concern. The USFS is keeping a close watch on fire conditions and will react if necessary. Neitzke informed the Board that a fire ban can generally be enacted within a single day, but that reaching all campers in the wilderness often requires up to 4 days. The USFS encourages campers to use common sense in the woods and to not build fires when conditions change to hot, dry and windy.
c) The land exchange between the USFS and Cook County is moving forward. The lands proposed for the exchange have been identified. The feasibility study is underway and the environmental assessment is forthcoming.
d) Dennis Neitzke's decision on the South Fowl snowmobile trail (aka Tilbury Trail) was appealed, so this snowmobile route is not open. The Forest Service has contracted with a sound analysis expert from the National Park Service to examine the sound testing and sound modeling that was conducted by the USFS.
e) Forest Restoration efforts are on-going.

Cook County Tower at Gunflint Magnetic Site
Sheriff Falk, along with District Ranger Dennis Neitzke, informed the Board that the Special Use Authorization for the Gunflint Magnetic tower site has been amended to include replacement of an existing 180 foot self-supporting communications tower with a new 195 foot self supporting communications tower; it will not be guyed or lighted. This tower will be built by AT&T and owned by Cook County on Forest Service land. Per the agreement with the Forest Service, a ~$4000 annual fee will be charged once cell phone service is provided.

Office of Planning & Zoning
As recommended by the Planning Commission, the County Board approved a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to modify property lines for Lot 3, Block 6 within Superior National Golf Properties at Lutsen to incorporate a white pine on the subject property. No change to the acreage of the lot or the open space in the Open Space Subdivision will result from this action.

A Conditional Use Permit to operate a Bed and Breakfast in Tofte within the Single Family Residential (R-1) zone district was approved with just 1 change from the recommendation from the Planning Commission. In response to concerns from the neighbors regarding lighting, a condition to install shading on the existing lighting was added to the permit.

Nancy Grabko, Cook County/Grand Marais EDA Housing Coordinator
The Board approved (2) resolutions as requested by Nancy Grabko:
a) to submit an application for funding under the DEED Small Cities Development program, and
b) to submit an application for funding under the NE Minnesota HOME Consortium program.
These programs would play an integral part of Cook County's ability to assist income qualifying residents in need of home rehabilitation. Grabko also outlined changes to the application and scoring processes.

Grabko also reminded the Board of the collaborative work between the EDA, AEOA and the Duluth HRA in helping qualifying residents obtain Section 8 Rental housing Assistance. For information on help paying the rent, contact the EDA Housing Program at 218-387-3067 or email Nancy Grabko at dngrabko@means.net.

Lutsen Trailbreakers Snowmobile Club
Sharon Hexum-Platzer and Scott Platzer, VP and Administrator of the Lutsen Trailbreakers Snowmobile Club respectively, came before the Board to ask for support in the relocation of a 25' x 40' building from behind the Lutsen Town Hall to a piece of County Land located on the Caribou Trail and adjacent to the Lutsen snowmobile trail. The Club is applying for a MN DNR grant to pay the relocation and remodeling costs associated with this move. As the property owner, the County Board agreed to write a letter of support for this grant, as well as move forward with negotiation of a lease agreement and the Conditional User Permitting process.

The County Board will act as the Fiscal Agent for MN Snowmobile Trail Assistance Program grant funds on behalf of the Lutsen Trailbreakers Snowmobile Club, Cook County Snowmobile Club, and Superior Timber Wolves Sportsmen Club.

Redistricting Overview
Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers informed the Board of the Redistricting Process that occurs with population changes resulting from the Census taken every 10 years. The Redistricting deadline for the County is May 1, 2012, but cannot occur until the City of Grand Marais completes its redistricting which is due to be complete by April 3, 2012. In preparation for this, the County Board passed a resolution regarding Redistricting Principles that states: Each commissioner district will be composed, as nearly as possible, of compact, contiguous territory of equal population and bounded entirely by precinct boundaries. Powers explained the formulas used in determining population changes.

Gambling Permit
The Board approved a permit for the Gunflint Lake Property Owners to conduct a raffle at Gunflint Lodge on July 18, 2012.

Boundary Waters Advisory Committee Trail Grant
The Board approved a resolution to act as Fiscal Agent for the Federal Recreational Trails Program on behalf of the Boundary Waters Advisory Committee.

Budget Review
Braidy Powers reviewed the 2011 General Fund actual vs. budgeted expenses. At the end of 2011, the County Budget came in at 99.7% of the General Fund plan. Powers also reviewed the Cook County investments.

Government Corners
The County Board authorized an additional $1,000 to fund Wayne Hensche for obtaining information showing government survey corners along the Grade area. Cook County Recorder Dusty Nelms has identified this information as vital in surveying lands correctly in Cook County.

Community Center Project
Commissioner Hakes gave an overview of the Community Center Steering Committee Meeting held last week.

Cook County Security Committee
Commissioner Hakes, supported by Commissioner Hall and Janet Simonen, gave an overview of the Courthouse Security Meeting held last week. Janet Simonen updated the Board on the agenda for the County Employee Meeting to be held from 8-10 AM on Thursday, February 16. The Courthouse will be closed for regular business during this time.

Water Advisory Committee Appointments
The County Board approved the appointments of Gary Macicjewski (2nd term) and Don Lease (1st term) to the Water Advisory Committee as presented by Illena Berg, Water Plan Coordinator.

Senator Franken Introduces the Local Courthouse Safety Act

2012-02-08T09:09:00.000-08:00

Senator Al Franken introduced the Courthouse Safety Act on the Senate Floor yesterday with bi-partisan support. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn) and Senator John Boozman (R-Ark) signed on as original co-sponsors of this proposed legislation. Click here for a video of Senator Franken's speech. Click here for a full transcript of Senator Franken's remarks. A summary of the proposed bill follows:

Local Courthouse Safety Act

Local courthouses are dangerous places. Stakes are high. Tempers flare. Victims confront their assailants; defendants confront their accusers; and prosecutors argue with defense lawyers.

A rash of incidents in late 2011 raised serious concerns about security at local courthouses. In September, a defendant opened fire in the Crawford County Courthouse in Arkansas, killing a judge's secretary. Two days later, police killed a defendant in the Adams County Superior Court in Indiana after he pointed a gun at them. Neither of those courthouses had metal detectors. In December, a defendant retrieved a gun from his car, walked into the Cook County Courthouse in Minnesota, and shot the prosecuting attorney, and a witness. That courthouse did not have a metal detector, either. In fact, after that shooting, the Executive Director of the Minnesota Sheriff's Association estimated that most rural courthouses in the state have no metal detector on site.

The Bureau of Justice Assistance recently commissioned the National Center for State Courts and the Center on Judicial and Executive Security to conduct a comprehensive study of local courthouse security. In the mean time, anecdotal evidence demonstrates that security at many local courthouses is lax, particularly in rural and suburban areas where access to equipment and resources is especially scarce. Our local police, court personnel, and communities remain in harm's way as a result. One Minnesota judge put it well in recent correspondence to his colleagues: "I'm no longer willing to risk my life, the life of court staff, (and) the life of the public who have no choice about going to court."

The Local Courthouse Safety Act will give local courthouses access to the resources they need to improve security. It will:

1) Provide local courts with access to security training and risk assessments. The bill will authorize the Justice Department to operate its VALOR Initiative, which provides training and technical assistance to local law enforcement, teaching them how to anticipate and survive violent encounters.

2) Give states authority to use existing grant money to improve courthouse security. The bill will clarify that states can use Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grants and State Homeland Security Grants to improve security at local courthouses.

3) Cut through bureaucratic red tape, giving local courts access to excess federal security equipment. The Defense Department currently has authority to give excess equipment directly to local police and firefighters. This bill similarly would give local courts direct access to excess federal security equipment, like metal detectors, wands, and baggage screening machines.

The Center for Judicial and Executive Security supports this bill. For more information, please contact Joshua Riley at Joshua_Riley@judiciary-dem.senate.gov

Community Center, Courthouse Security, Special Meeting on Opening the Closed Landfill

2012-02-03T22:05:00.000-08:00

The last two days have been filled with meetings. Here's the rundown on (3) of the most interesting:

Community Center Steering Committee Meeting--Thursday Morning
At the direction of the County Board, the Community Center Steering Committee met February 2 from 8 am to Noon. The Steering Committee has been tasked with making a recommendation to the County Board for a new Community Center and Recreation Area to be designed and built at a cost not to exceed $9M. This amount is reduced from just under $11M previously allocated. The County Board also directed the Steering Committee to recommend a location for outdoor ice to be built in time for the 2012-2013 winter skating season, and to consider various options for a warming facility.

After significant discussion including the budget, location of the facility, wetland mitigation, facility management and possible partnership with ISD166, two motions were made and passed: 1) The Steering Committee will pursue working with the YMCA to explore the possibility of having the YMCA manage a new facility, and 2) The Steering Committee will pursue attaching the proposed Community Center to the School. A meeting with the School Board will be requested to explore the merits of this partnership and the County Board will be kept abreast of this effort.

Committee member Paul Sporn volunteered and was elected as the new Steering Committee Chair. Diane Booth was re-elected as Secretary. Other members include Jeanne Anderson, Maggie Barnard, Diane Booth, Bob Fenwick, Sue Hakes, Andra Lilienthal, Paul Nelson, Sue Prom, Karen Kritta Saethre, Fritz Sobanja, Paul Sporn, and alternates Kris Hedstrom, Jim Johnson and George Wilkes. There are still a couple of openings on the Committee; if you are interested in participating, call Diane Booth at 387-3015.

The next meeting of the Steering Committee is TENTATIVELY scheduled for either February 29 (Wed) or March 2 (Fri) from 8 AM to NOON. The Public is welcome to attend these meetings.

Cook County Security Committee--Friday Morning
The first meeting of the newly formed Cook County Security Committee was held Friday, February 3 from 10 AM to approximately 12:30 PM. Sheriff Mark Falk was nominated as the Chair of this Committee to be assisted by Commissioner Sue Hakes. Committee members include: Sheriff Mark Falk, Judge Michael Cuzzo, County Board Chair Janice Hall, County Attorney Tim Scannell, Assistant County Attorney Molly Hicken, Acting Court Administrator Diane Herrick-Schmidt, Probation Officer Steve Borud, Maintenance Director Brian Silence, Public Health & Human Services Director Sue Futterer, Personnel Director Janet Simonen, GIS Analyst Kyle Oberg, and County Commissioner Sue Hakes.

The basic role of this Committee is to review Cook County policies, procedures and facilities and recommend any changes necessary to reasonably ensure the safety of all who enter the Cook County Courthouse.

After a review of actions taken since the December 15, 2011 Courthouse Shooting, the Committee identified and discussed a list of issues and established some priorities. "Making the Courthouse Safe" was of top priority and a sub-committee was established to look at possible physical changes that could/should be made to the County Attorney's Office, Courtroom, Court Administration, Probation, other departments, entrances/exits. It was also decided that the existing Safety Committee would examine the Lockdown Policy and Training (employee safety training, lockdown drills, other training as identified).

The importance of two-way communication with County employees was also discussed at length. A second All Employee Meeting is being scheduled to keep employees informed of actions being taken, as well as to allow employees to ask questions, share ideas, and voice concerns. Department Heads are soliciting input from employees about needs and concerns which will be forwarded to the Committee for consideration and incorporation.

Four members of this committee (Falk, Hicken, Borud, Hakes) will be attending the MN Sheriff's Association Courthouse Safety Training on November 22-23 in Bemidji.

Special Meeting of the County Board of Commissioners--Friday Afternoon
A Special Meeting of the County Board of Commissioners was called to consider a request to support the release of the existing Gunflint Landfill from the Closed Landfill Program. Local businessmen Ray Pederson and Rick Austin (R&R Disposal) requested the County Board support their efforts to have the MPCA re-open the former demolition landfill site approximately 9 miles off the Gunflint Trail on Forest Road 304. Hal Greenwood was also present in support of this request; Mr. Greenwood explained that he has been helping to fast-track this request with Governor Dayton, Senator Tom Bakk and Representative David Dill.

Several years ago, the County Board made a conscious and expensive decision to enter its Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) and Demolition Landfills into the MPCA Closed Landfill Program. This decision was made to mitigate the risks to public health and the environment that can be caused at/near landfills from groundwater contamination, landfill gas migration, and/or chemical leaching. The County paid in excess of $600,000 for the MPCA to be responsible for the long-term care of this facility and remove the County from any liability resulting from this site.

Removing the Demolition Landfill from the Closed Landfill Program (the request does not include the MSW) puts the County at risk in (2) significant ways:

a) First and foremost is the risk to public health and the environment that may be caused by re-opening this site; there is a reason it was closed in the first place.

b) The second is the financial liability to the County, and ultimately the County taxpayers. By re-opening the old demolition landfill, any party that has ever used it becomes liable for damages; the State would bear no liability or responsibility. Both County Attorney Tim Scannell and Director of Planning & Zoning Tim Nelson outlined clearly the liability risks to the County. The MPCA has also explained that in spite of some legislative limits to the County's liability, it could still reach $3 million.

We do need a safe, affordable demolition landfill in Cook County. Unfortunately, the health and liability risks at the old demolition site are too great to fulfill this need.

Ultimately the County Board voted 3-1 (Hakes opposed) in support of writing a letter to Senator Bakk and Representative Dill asking them to work with R&R Disposal and Cook County in exploring the removal of the old Demolition Landfill from the Closed Landfill Program.

January 24 County Board Meeting & One Percent Sales Tax Work Session

2012-01-26T20:51:00.000-08:00

County Board Chair Jan Hall, along with Commissioners Hakes, Martinson and Sobanja were present at the January 24 Meeting of the Cook County Board of Commissioners. Jim Johnson was absent due to illness. Also present were Braidy Powers and Janet Simonen.

Public Comment
Judy Motschenbacher addressed the County Board with her concerns about spending One Percent Sales Tax dollars on projects that the County does not have the money to operate and maintain.

Lake Superior-Poplar River Water District Bonding Proposal
Charles Skinner, West End Resident and Business Owner, presented the County Board with a $4.8 million project proposal for the creation of a Lake Superior-Poplar River Water District. $3.6 million in bonding is requested for a grant from the Public Facilities Authority (State) and $1.2 million in non-state funds will be required as a match. If created, the Lake Superior-Poplar River Water District will own and maintain the water system. Governor Dayton has included this project in his proposed bonding sale. According to Skinner, the $1.2 million match would potentially come from a variety of sources including IRRRB, Superior National Golf Course, and Caribou Highlands. The County Board voted to provide a letter of support for the project with specific language that the Cook County Soil & Water Conservation District be involved.

Local Water Management Plan
Illena Berg, Cook County Water Plan Coordinator, requested the County Board submit any water management issues to the Water Advisory Board for consideration in the Cook County Local Water Management Plan. The Comprehensive Local Water Management Act (MN Statutes, Chapter 103B.301) requires an update and revision of the Cook County Local Water Management Plan in 2012.

Highway Department Capital Requests
The County Board approved (3-1 with Martinson voting no) capital purchases for (2) 2012 GMC Sierra 2500 4WD crew cab pickups at a cost of $31,552 plus tax for a total cost of $67,205.76. The Board also approved (4-0) the purchase of (1) surveyor box for the 2012 GMC 2500 short bed pick up for a total of $7796.53. Each of these items was in the 2012 Highway Department budget.

Cook County Local Energy Project (CCLEP)
George Wilkes, Chair of the CCLEP Energy Planning Committee, and Virginia Danfelt-Martin, CCLEP Coordinator, presented an early version of the Energy Plan they are developing for the City of Grand Marais and Cook County. The overall goal of the Energy Plan is to better prepare our community for the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing energy environment. Go to the CCLEP Website to learn more about this and other projects.

Boundary Water Advisory Committee
Eric Humphrey, on behalf of the Boundary Water Advisory (BWA) Committee, asked the County to act as its fiscal agent for Federal and/or State grant funds. The County Board agreed to do so. The BWA Committee is a nonprofit organization whose mission is "to preserve the existing historic trails in the boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness of the Superior National Forest" and will celebrate the organization's 10th anniversary in 2012.

ORB Management One Percent Project Update
Tom Wacholz, President of ORB Management, presented the County Board with its regular overall update of the One Percent Projects. After a general review, ORB specifically focused on (2) projects:

1. Birch Grove Community Center Update--On Thursday, January 12, the Tofte Design Review Board (TDRB) approved the design for the Birch Grove Community Center Warming House/Storage Building and Pavilion. The TDRB will meet again on February 9 to make final color and materials selections. Upon approval, ORB Management/Meyer Group will solicit contractor bids for the project. To date, $107,404.25 has been spent on this project, nearly all of those costs have been for the kitchen renovation, professional management and design services. As the project moves forward and construction documents are produced, ORB will refine the project estimate and work with Tofte to prioritize the proposed projects. Some portions of the project may be bid as alternate and only completed if they fall within the project budget of $700,000.

2. Grand Marais Public Library--Wacholz acknowledged and thanked the Library Project Team for their hard work and the success of the project: Library Board, Library Project Committee (Fritz Sobanja, Braidy Powers, David Quick, Linda Chapelle), City of Grand Marais, Cook County, DSGW Architects and ORB Management. The final occupancy walk-thru took place on November 28, 2011. The Library Project was completed on time and under budget. Wacholz stated that the best thing about the project is that it was completed safely. ORB Management will manage all warranty issues, coordinate the warranty walk-thru prior to expiration of the 1-year warranty on labor and materials, and remain available as a resouce beyond the warranty period.

Courthouse and County Attorney Office Safety Measures
County Attorney Tim Scannell, Assistant County Attorney Molly Hicken and Sheriff Mark Falk came to the County Board with strong recommendations for taking adequate safety measures in the Courthouse to protect prosecutors, Judges, county employees, Commissioners, and of course, the Public. The County Board agreed and voted unanimously to take the following actions:

a. All doors in/out of the Courthouse will be locked except for the main entrance on the west side of the building. The west door will become the only entrance; all other doors will remain exit only.

b. The Board authorized Sheriff Falk to add deputies at public events, public meetings and court hearings of any sort at his discretion for 3 months without regard to his current budget. (Also at Sheriff Falk's discretion is the use of wand scanning equipment to ensure that no weapons are brought into the Courthouse.)

c. Physical changes will be made to isolate the County Attorney's Office by making it accessible only by key or card, including bullet proof glass on the interior of the office for final access. A small committee consisting of Tim Scannell, Molly Hicken, Sheriff Falk, Building Maintenance Supervisor Brian Silence and Commissioner Sue Hakes was formed to make these changes happen in a timely fashion. Serious consideration is also being given to expanding the County Attorney's office to include its own secure conference room to ensure the safety of victims and witnesses.

d. Signs prohibiting firearms will be posted on the Courthouse doors.

Along with the actions taken above, Sheriff Falk, Molly Hicken, Sue Hakes and potentially others will attend a Courthouse Safety Training sponsored by the MN Sheriff's Association scheduled on February 22-23 in Bemidji.

And as previously established, the Courthouse Security Team (Judge Michael Cuzzo, Court Administrator Diane Herrick-Schmidt, Sheriff Mark Falk, County Attorney Tim Scannell, Assistant County Attorney Molly Hicken, Building Maintenance Supervisor Brian Silence, PHHS Director Sue Futterer, Personnel Director Janet Simonen, GIS Analyst Kyle Oberg, Probation Officer Steve Borud, Emergency Management Director Jim Wiinanen, County Board Chair Jan Hall, and Commissioner Sue Hakes) will work to identify and resolve on-going issues with Courthouse Security such as policy review & changes, safety training, employee assistance, other. Their first meeting is set for February 3.

Labor Negotiations

After the County Board Worksession on One Percent Sales Tax Projects, the meeting was closed and the Board discussed the on-going labor negotiations.

One Percent Sales Tax Work Session
The County Board held a Work Session with the purpose of reviewing the allocation of One Percent Sales Tax Funds.

Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers opened the Work Session by providing 4-5 scenarios for the collection of the Sales Tax, costs associated, varying interest rates and varying terms. The One Percent Sales tax is currently generating enough revenue to pay for just under $17 million in total bonds, assuming the bonds are for 20 year terms and assuming the interest rate is 3.18% or less. To be able to pay $20 million in bonds, Powers offered options for consideration that included delay of expenditures, paying cash from county funds and reimbursing the county from the sales tax reimbursement in future years, or increasing the term of any additional bonds.

This information from Powers, combined with the financial overview provided by ORB Management demonstrated that adjustments need to be made; this was not new information. The budgets for the Library Project ($1.49M), Birch Grove Community Center ($700K) and Broad Band ($4M) are basically set, so most of the discussion surrounded Superior National Golf Course (SNGC), the Community Center, and the Uncommitted Funds.

Several weeks ago, the County Board voted 3-2 (Hakes* and Hall voted against) to increase the One Percent Funding allocated to Superior National Golf Course to $3.1 million. The basic objective of the SNGC project is to create a world-class 18 hole golf course with a total estimated cost of $6 million.

*I voted no because the proposed SNGC project is too financially risk, there is no overall financial plan for $6 million, there is no committed funding beyond the 1% funds, there are too many unanswered questions about land issues, and there is no clear management structure in place. I also voted no because the public passed the sales tax referendum with a significantly smaller allocation to SNGC than $3.1 million.

The County Board also discussed the Community Center Project and the Warming House recently proposed by the Hockey Association. After a significant amount of discussion, the County Board agreed upon the following:

1. Hakes made a motion which passed unanimously to reduce the Community Center project allocation from $11 million (including FFE) to $9 million (including FFE). As before, this project encompasses the Community Center Building and the Recreation Complex surrounding it

2. Building outdoor ice for the 2012-2013 hockey season is a top priority. And, there is strong support on the County Board to provide some type of warming house facility for skaters.

3. There is concern that building a Warming House as proposed by the Hockey Association for $700,000 (for the building only) would preclude the building of a larger Community Center that would serve more users and offer broader programming for all ages.

4. The County Board asked the Community Center Steering Committee to reconvene itself to begin working on the following:
a. Downsize the project to $9 million
b. Get plan to build outdoor ice and modest warming house for next season

County Board Agendas and Board Packets

2012-01-20T15:51:00.000-08:00

County Board Agendas are available on-line. Just recently, the County Board Meeting Packets have also become available on line. Here's the link:

http://co.cook.mn.us/index.php/government/board-of-commissioners/meeting-agendas.

The County Board Meeting Packet is the information provided to Commissioners prior to each County Board Meeting and is always available to the Public.

Human Service Board and County Board Meetings for January 17, 201

2012-01-17T21:11:00.000-08:00

Cook County Human Service Board Meeting
Today's Cook County Human Services Board was called to order by Chair Sue Hakes. Also in attendance were Jan Hall, Jim Johnson, Carla LaPointe, Jerry Lilja, Bruce Martinson, and Fritz Sobanja. County Staff in attendance were Sue Futterer, Jan Parish, Anna Sandstrom and Kristine Swanson.

The first order of business for today's meeting was to appoint (3) persons to the Public Health & Human Services Advisory Committee: Carla LaPointe (President), Jerry Lilja (Vice President) and Sylvia Manthey. As President and Vice President, LaPointe and Lilja are automatically members of the Human Services Board. LaPointe, Lilja and Manthey all bring expertise, professionalism and passion to their roles on this Board.

The next order of business was to elect a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson for the Cook County Human Services Board. I'm thrilled to let you know that I was elected as Chairperson and look forward to serving in that capacity for the 2nd year. Fritz Sobanja was elected as Vice Chair.

Committee Reports
Brief reports for for Arrowhead Economic Opportunity, Arrowhead Health Alliance, Arrowhead Regional Corrections, Community Health Board, Public Health & Human Services Advisory Committee, Health Care Planning Committee and North Shore Collaborative were made by those serving on these committees.

Family Child Care
Kristine Swanson, County Licensor, and Anna Sandstrom, Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) Worker, joined to give the Board an overview of the County/State Child Care Licensing procedures and also information regarding CCAP.

Both Licensed Child Care Providers and Legal Unlicensed Providers exist in Cook County with licensed facilities being routinely inspected by Swanson to ensure State requirements for child/adult ratios, physical environment, safety, sanitation, etc. are being met. Swanson reported that there are currently 8 licensed providers in Cook County. For information about Child Care licensing, contact Kristine Swanson.

Sandstrom reported that qualifying families may obtain financial assistance for child care through CCAP. This assistance is available for both Licensed and Legal Non-licensed Day Care Providers and there is a maximum to the level of support. For information regarding the Child Care Assistance Program, contact Anna Sandstrom.

This work done by Swanson and Sandstrom helps to improve access to safe and healthy child care for children in Cook County. Clearly, the work they do is important to them and to the community.

Financial Report--Jan Parish, Income Maintenance and Fiscal Supervisor
Jan Parish complemented the Family Child Care presentation by explaining that funding for the CCAP program is provided by the State and not the County. Parish also gave the Board an overview of the 2011 Budget as it is known today. Final expenditures and collections won't be finalized until March.

Director's Report--Sue Futterer
Sue Futterer reminded the Board of the Region 3 Redesign Meeting in Eveleth on January 31, 2012 and encouraged Board members to attend.

Futterer then gave an excellent overview of the MN Association of County Social Service Administrators Policy Vision entitlted "Shaping Minnesota's Human Services Future". In this paper, MACSSA provides a vision of the unique role counties are positioned to and should fulfill in the delivery of human services for Minnesota. MACSSA also recommend guidelines for future policy. It's an interesting read and I appreciated Futterer's commentary about the work.

Cook County Board Meeting
County Board Chair Jan Hall called the meeting to order. Also present were Commissioners Hakes, Johnson, Martinson and Sobanja. County Staff present included Janet Simonen and Braidy Powers.

Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to come before the Board.

Cook County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD)
The Board approved a letter of support for a grant to complete a water quality assessment of the Lake Superior Shoreline in Grand Marais as requested by Kerri Fabius, Supervisor of SWCD.

Title III Firewise Funding Request
Richard Johnson and Mike Prom of the Gunflint Trail Fire Department were supported by Dick Parker of the Firewise Committee in their request for Title III Firewise funding to purchase communication equipment to better outfit trained wildfire firefighters. The Board supported this $15,000 request as recommended by the Firewise Committee.

County Sheriff Mark Falk
The County Board voted to accept a Snowmobile Safety Enforcement Grant similar to the grants received in the past as recommended by Sheriff Falk.

Sheriff Falk introduced Greg Gentz as the new hire for the deputy sheriff position assigned to the Grand Portage Indian Reservation. Deputy Gentz brings 13 years of law enforcement experience to the job which includes approximately 5 months as a seasonal deputy in Cook County in 2009. Cook County and the Grand Portage Tribe are working together in this effort; the Grand Portage Tribe will reimburse Cook County for this position.

The County Board authorized the purchase of (3) squads and the equipment to outfit them: 2 replacement squads and 1 additional squad for the Grand Portage Deputy Sheriff position. Squads to be replaced are a 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe with 105,000 miles and a 2005 Chevrolet Impala that was totalled. The Grand Portage RTC will pay for the squad to be used in Grand Portage.

Office of Planning & Zoning
As recommended by the Planning Commission, the County Board approved an Interim Use Permit request to allow use of a Recreational Vehicle (RV) for habitation within the Resort Commercial/Residential zone district. The property owners are making this request to provide temporary housing for themselves during the renovation of their residence and build-out of their property.

As recommended by the Planning Commission, the County Board approved (9) gravel pit permits and (2) gravel pit permits with conditions.

Permit for Lawful Gambling Activity
The County Board approved a permit application for lawful gambling activity for the Cook County Snowmobile Club. The Club will have a fundraiser including a raffle and bingo on February 4 at The Landing on Devil Track.

Broadband Commission Grant Application
The Board voted to authorize application for a Blandin Foundation grant to conduct a tele-health pilot project to demonstrate the use of broadband in helping seniors to stay in their homes longer. North Shore Health Care Foundation is also a potential grant source for this work. The grant application is due February 5, 2012.

Closed Session of the County Board
The County Board conducted a closed session to discuss labor negotiation strategy.

County Board Meeting in a Busy Week!

2012-01-13T20:26:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy week as we settle into 2012 and get back into the routine of County business and regular committee meetings. This week, I attended several: NE Waste Advisory Committee, Arrowhead Health Alliance, North Shore Collaborative and Heart of the Continent. In general, these meetings are important for collaboration between counties to address areas of mutual concern. If any of you is ever interested in learning more about these committees, please don't hesitate to call me. I'd be happy to share.

As promised earlier this month, I'm providing the current 2012 County Commissioner Assignments and updated 2012 Board & Commissions Assignments.

January 10, 2012 County Board Meeting
County Board Chair Jan Hall, along with Commissioners Hakes, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for the regularly scheduled County Board Meeting on January 10. Jim Johnson was absent due to health issues. Also present for the meeting were Braidy Powers and Janet Simonen.

Public Comment
No member of the public opted to address the County Board at this meeting.

Highway Department
The County Board authorized the hiring of Bill Parish on a temporary basis for up to 10 hours/week for up to six months. Parish will assist with various engineering tasks, including the Gunflint Trail Project, to help close the gap left by the vacant Assistant Engineer position.

The Board authorized capital purchases for survey equipment ($112,423) and a used shop truck (up to $46,200). All items were in the budget for 2012.

The County Board passed a resolution in support of the reconstruction of CSAH 5 north of Brule Run Bridge and the application for Local Road Improvement Program (LRIP) funds for this project. Estimated cost for this project is $650,000 with funds to come from Lutsen Mountain, LRIP, State Aid and Gas Tax monies.

The County Board approved a request for 2012 Mile O'Pine road assessments to be spread over 2 years (plus interest equal to the current bond rate plus 2%). This is consistent with the proposed Subordinate Governmental Service District which allows qualifying assessments to be assessed over a period of no more than 5 years.

Forest Service/County Land Exchange Agreement
The County Board approved the "Agreement to Initiate" the Cook County Land Exchange with the Superior National Forest. This document was reviewed by Attorney Jill Nguyn of the Attorney General's Office on behalf of Cook County.

Cook County Zoning Ordinance
On the recommendation of Planning Director Tim Nelson and County Attorney Tim Scannell, the Board adopted the proposed language changes to Cook County Zoning Ordinance Section 4.09(C)(1) and Section 4.17(C)(1)(c). The intention of this proposed amendment is to place the processing and evaluation of all aspects of Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) within the two-mile extended jurisdictional area of the City with the City itself instead of forcing applicants to be processed by both the City and the County.

Warming House/Recreation Building Proposal
Members of the Hockey Association presented a design proposal to the County Board for a Warming House/Recreation Building. Elements of the proposed 4427 square foot building include a garage space for the Zamboni, changing rooms, men's and women's restrooms, a multi-purpose room, concession area, rental area, and storage areas for hockey, softball, soccer, little league, teeball, parent pitch and baseball. Rough cost estimates provided by Architect Tim Meyer are ~$1,200,000 for the building, parking and ice.

This proposed Warming House/Recreation Building definitely meets some of the long-awaited needs for hockey and other sports user groups. This proposal surely fills a gap in our recreation infrastructure and would definitely enrich our hockey, softball, soccer, tennis and little league programs; this is all good. But, while this proposed facility would serve the needs of some, it does not meet the needs for many others within our community. And duplication of programming between the existing Community Center, the proposed Warming House/Recreation Building and a new Community Center need to be addressed.

The County Board has scheduled time between 10:30 and 12:30 during it's January 24 Board Meeting to discuss the One Percent Sales Tax Projects--including this proposal-- further.

Wetland Mitigation
Community Center Director Diane Booth presented information regarding Wetland Mitigation steps and costs for the rest of the Community Center property including some property owned by Cook County ISD #166 Schools. No decisions were made.

Braidy Powers, County Auditor/Treasurer
The County Board approved an agreement with Synergy Graphics to provide Ballot Layout and Ballot Printing services. Cook County, along with most MN Counties, use Synergy Graphics for this very specialized service. The agreed upon rate is the same as in 2010 and will not change for four years.

The County Board accepted grants from the Legacy Grant Program and Local Program for Lutsen Trailbreakers and Banadad Trail Association, respectively.

Worker's Compensation for Elected Officials
Elected officials are paid on an annual salaried basis and do not receive Paid Leave, Sick Leave, extended Sick Leave, or Comp Time benefits. Therefore, if they are on workers comp, they only receive 2/3 of their normal wage and are not able to supplement their income in the same manner as all other county employees. The County Board voted to pay an additional taxable wage by Cook County so that the combination of workers comp payments and county wages will approximately equal the officials average salary.

Courthouse Security
Commissioner Hakes reported that efforts are underway to coordinate efforts between the County, Law Enforcement, MN 6th Judicial District, and the County Attorney's Office to address Courthouse Security issues. A Courthouse Security Committee is being formed and will initially include Sheriff Falk, Judge Cuzzo, Diane Herrick-Schmidt, Tim Scannell or Molly Hicken, Steve Borud, Brian Silence, Janet Simonen, Sue Futterer, Jim Wiinanen, Jan Hall and Sue Hakes.

Candidate Interviews
Commissioner Hakes presented a proposed interview process for County Board consideration. Hakes advocated for the Board to interview Committee and Board applicants at the Board's discretion for key positions such as the Economic Development Authority (EDA).

MN Accountable Government, Innovation and Collaboration (MAGIC) Act
The County Board passed a resolution to recommend the swift passage of the MAGIC Act into law at the State Legislature.

Closed Session/Labor Negotiations
A closed session of the County Board Meeting was held to discuss strategies for the (3) on-going labor negotiations with County employees.

Special Meeting of the Cook County Board of Commissioners

2012-01-03T20:29:00.000-08:00

Special Organizational Meeting of the County Board
The County Board held its annual organizational meeting at the Courthouse this morning. Board Chair, Jim Johnson was absent. Vice-Chair, Jan Hall, and Commissioners Hakes, Martinson and Sobanja were all present. Also present were Janet Simonen, Braidy Powers, and Molly Hicken.

At this first meeting of the year, a new Board Chair and Vice-Chair are elected and appointments are made to various Boards and Commissions. Janice Hall was elected unanimously as the 2012 Board Chair; Bruce Martinson was elected unanimously as the 2012 Board Vice Chair.

In other business...
a) the Cook County News Herald was designated as the official newspaper for 2012
b) the Cook County web page was designated as an official publication of the County
c) travel allowance rates were established at the same rate as 2011

Boards, Commissions, and Temporary Committees
There are several citizen openings on various Boards and Commissions. These openings have been posted and interested citizens are encouraged to consider applying for these positions. It's rewarding to get involved!

Generally speaking, most County Board appointments to Boards and Commissions have remained the same as last year. However, some changes are being made. A final list of assignments will be compiled and I'll post it on my blog when it becomes available.

Commissioner Department Liaison Assignments
As a temporary measure in Jim Johnson's absence, Sue Hakes volunteered and has been appointed the County Board liaison to the County Attorney's Office and Court Administration. Fritz Sobanja has been temporarily appointed as liaison to the Assessor's Office. Hakes and newly elected Board Chair Jan Hall have been designated to work with Law Enforcement, the State, and Department Heads on the issue of Courthouse Safety and Security.

New Year Wishes

2011-12-31T21:00:00.000-08:00

I read this today and thought it was nice...

New Year Wishes

I wish you Health...
So you may enjoy each day in comfort.

I wish you the Love of friends and family...
And Peace within your heart.

I wish you the Beauty of nature...
That you may enjoy the work of God.

I wish you Wisdom to choose priorities...
For those things that really matter in life.

I wish you Generosity so you may share...
All good things that come to you.

I wish you Happiness and Joy...
And Blessings for the New Year.

I wish you the best of everything...
That you so well deserve.

Author Unknown

Employee Meeting, County Board Meeting and the Human Service Board Meeting

2011-12-23T20:51:00.000-08:00

Cook County Employee Assistance Meeting re: 12/15/11 Courthouse Shooting
An all-employee group meeting was held in the Commissioner's Room from 8 am to just about 9 am. Facilitated by the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Counselors, this meeting was well attended by county employees. Information regarding the 12/15/11 shooting at the Courthouse was presented by Sheriff Mark Falk. Information regarding Traumatic Stress and counseling services available was presented by EAP counselors and staff. Information on additional mental health services was provided by Janet Simonen.

Around 9 am, employees broke into small groups facilitated by EAP counselors to talk about the incident, as well as give and receive support to/from co-workers. While attendance and participation was encouraged, these meetings were completely voluntary.

Employees (and community members) are encouraged to a) talk about the incident and share their feelings, and b) exercise. Talking and exercising will aid the healing process.

For more information about the 12/15/11 incident, go to WTIP and listen to interviews with Sheriff Mark Falk and County Board Chair Jim Johnson.

County Board Meeting
County Board Chair Jim Johnson and Commissioners Hakes, Hall, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for the December 20 County Board Meeting. Also present were Janet Simonen and Braidy Powers.

Public Comment
Jim Hall requested the County Board work with the Sheriff and the State to ensure the safety of jurors and others working in the judicial process.

Land Commissioner, Mary Black
As recommended by Mary Black, the County Board approved an abatement request from Property Owner Grant Merritt for the removal of value for land underneath Lost Lake.

Agreement to Initiate Superior National Forest and Cook County Land Exchange (Case #4552)
County Board approved the draft Agreement to Initiate the land exchange with the Forest Service for the county land within the BWCAW. The draft is approved subject to review by Molly Hicken (or other attorney, i.e., Lake County attorney, as recommended by Molly Hicken).

Highway Department
Final payment to Edwin E. Thoreson, Inc. for CR 62 West (storm work in Creechville) was approved for $17,005.51 bringing the final cost of the project to $69,149.15.

Board Per Diem and Salary
The County Board set Cook County Commissioner per diems and salary for 2012 at the same rate as 2011; no increase.

Emergency Management Performance Grant
Cook County has been awarded an emergency management performance grant in the amount of $15,499; the board approved this grant as recommended by Jim Wiinanen

Fund Balances
At the request of the County Board, Braidy Powers provided a comparison of fund balances for all 87 counties in MN for 2008 and 2009. Cook County is in the top 25% of all counties in unreserved fund balance as a percent of total current expenditures.

Safety Committee
Janet Simonen informed the Board that the Safety Committee will be providing a list of all activities in the year 2011. The Board also approved a capital purchase request for an additional Lifepak 500, bio-certified AED defibrillator as budgeted.

The County Board also discussed the need to work with Law Enforcement, Emergency Services, the State and other entities to review the County's security equipment, procedures and policies.

One Percent Projects
A Worksession to discuss One Percent projects was cancelled for 12/20 and rescheduled for 10:30 to 12:30 on January 24 during the regular County Board meeting.

Cook County Emergency Operations Plan
The County Emergency Operations Plan was reviewed and approved by the County Board as presented by Jim Wiinanen.

Cook County Human Services Board Meeting
The Human Services Board Meeting was called to order by Chair Sue Hakes at 1:00 pm. Others Board Members in attendance were Jan Hall, Jim Johnson, Bruce Martinson, Carla LaPointe, Fritz Sobanja. Diane Fitzgerald was absent.

Committee Reports
Committee reports were given for meetings that occurred the past month. Sue Futterer announced that Carla LaPointe will be the new chair for the Public Health & Human Services Advisory Committee.

Adults and Children with Disabilities
Social Worker, Linda Waterhouse, gave the Board a presentation on her work as the Case Manager for the Developmental Disabilities Program. The target population served by this program is adults and children with a diagnosis of Mental Retardation or a related condition such as Autism, Prader-Willi Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy.

Waterhouse provided some background information noting that the US Congress passed the first Development Disabilities (DD) Act in 1974. Minnesota followed this landmark legislation by committing to case management for persons with mental retardation or related conditions in 1977. As case manager, Waterhouse works with the person and his/her family to identify their unique needs. The case manager assists the person and his/her family with locating resources to meet their service and support needs and assures continuity of quality services and supports.

Currently there are 25 cases in Cook County ranging in age of persons from 4 to 83. The focus is on Consumer Directed Community Support which enables the recipient to stay in the community and costs less to support.

Waterhouse was open about the work she finds rewarding, answered questions and was off to an appointment.

Financial Report
Income Maintenance and Fiscal Supervisor Jan Parish presented the November 30, 2011 Finance Report. And as a complement to the presentation from Linda Waterhouse, Parish explained the basics of waivered services for families developing Consumer Directed Community Support Program for Adults and Children with Developmental Disabilities.

Director's Report, Sue Futterer
Director Sue Futterer reported the following;
a) A Region 3 Redesign Meeting will be held on January 31 at IRRB in Eveleth, MN; the agenda is forthcoming.
b) A purchase of service agreement between Cook County and Gregory A. Barnier & Associates is being completed.
c) HDC has hired a mental health counselor, Dr. Webb, who will begin January 2, 2012.
d) Cook and Carlton Counties will enter into a Memorandum of Understanding regarding the Text4Life program for suicide prevention,

Purchase of Service Agreements
Several Purchase of Service Agreements for Cook County were approved by the Board including agreements with NS Hospital and Care Center, AEOA and the Women's Health Center of Duluth.

County Board Meeting for December 13, 2011

2011-12-18T21:05:00.000-08:00

County Board Chair Jim Johnson was absent. Vice-Chair Jan Hall ran the meeting with Commissioners Hakes, Martinson and Sobonja all present. Also present were Braidy Powers and Janet Simonen. County Attorney Tim Scannell was in Court.

Public Comment
(3) members of the Public addressed the County Board during the Public Comment period. Judy Motschenbacher expressed concern about the Hospital Tax and who she might talk with about this concern. (Note: The County Board does not have authority over the Hospital Tax. Motschenbacher was encouraged to seek out members of the Hospital Board.) Lloyd Speck expressed concerns about the County Budget including projected expenses at the Airport, hiring in the County Attorney's office, the need for a Communications Specialist, and the Road & Bridge fund. Steve Carlson expressed his concern about taxes increasing to a point that he believes will prevent people from moving here and buying real estate. Carlson proposed no increase to property taxes.

Broadband Commission
The County Board unanimously approved the appointment of Bob Pranis to the Broadband Commission as recommended and presented by Terry Meath on behalf of the Broadband Commission.

Highway Department
The County Board authorized the purchase of (1) AutoCAD Civil 3D license and (1) replacement Blackberry Mobile Phone. And, the Board unanimously voted to support the passage of HR 2947 regarding the CSAH 8 right-of-way acquisition.

County Assessor/Land Commissioner
The County Board approved Assessor Mary Black's request to hire the County Examiner of Titles to prepare a title insurance commitment on the County Lands within the Boundary Waters at an estimated cost of $50-60/parcel totaling $3000-3500. The Board discussed with Black whether it was a requirement for the Examiner of Titles to conduct this work and whether or not any of the work might be done in-house as a way to reduce costs. Ultimately, it was determined to move forward with the Examiner of Titles due to workload in the County Attorney's office and the short deadline to complete the work.

On behalf of the owners of the Best Western Motel downtown Grand Marais, County Assessor Mary Black requested Board action to change the property classification of the Best Western Motel from Commercial to Seasonal Resort for the 2011 assessment, taxes payable in 2012. The estimated difference in taxes owed is $56,000 less for Seasonal Resort than it is for Commercial. MN Statute 273.13 Classification of Property defines multiple requirements for a property to be classified as 4c including "real and personal property devoted to commercial temporary and seasonal residential occupancy for recreation purposes for not more than 250 days in the year preceding the year of assessment. For purposes of this clause, property is devoted to a commercial purpose on a specific day if any portion of the property is used for residential occupancy and a fee is charged for residential occupancy." The County Board voted 3-1 to approve this abatement with Hakes voting against. Commissioner Hakes supported her NO vote by saying she saw no evidence that the the Best Western Motel was used for residential occupancy less than 250 days/year.

Cook County Soil & Water Conservation District
The Board voted unanimously to accept the Natural Resources Block Grant for the time period from 9/1/2011 to 6/30/2013 as presented by District Manager Kerrie Fabius. The amount of this grant is $14,832. There is an additional $5,000 allocation from the Wetland Conservations Act.

Water Plan Coordinator, Ilena Berg, informed the County Board of the Soil & Water Conservation District's concern regarding water quality impacts of the proposed project at Superior National Golf Course. These concerns will also be shared with the Economic Development Authority (EDA) and the Office of Planning & Zoning (OPZ).

Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) Program
Although Jim Boyd is active in multiple public/government sponsored organizations, he was representing himself when he presented a Business Retention & Expansion Program developed at UMD. Boyd and John Bennett, MN Extension Service, see the BR&E Program as a way to enable local businesses to expand and succeed. Explaining that the BR&E Program is not a study, Boyd explained that such an endeavor would involve our community in a 12-18 month effort to demonstrate local support for local businesses and help solve immediate business concerns. In the longer term, objectives would include building our own capacity to sustain business growth, and establish and implement a strategic plan for economic development. Boyd believes the EDA needs to be involved, but that community involvement and a business leadership team outside of the EDA is necessary for success.

Budget
The County Board authorized payment of $68,647.91 to the City of Grand Marais for funding the Grand Marais swimming pool deficit for 2010. The County Board has budgeted for 1/3 of the pool deficit up to a maximum of $75,000.

The County Board approved a motion made by Commissioner Hakes to reduce the proposed 2.75% increase in the levy by $59,847 and approve this as the final budget and levy. This will reduce the levy increase to ~1.75% with the final percentage to be calculated by Braidy Powers.

One Percent Project Updates
The Library Project is complete. The project was completed under budget and on schedule.

The County Board has a Work Session scheduled to discuss One Percent Project on Tuesday, December 20. (Note that due to the closing of the Courthouse on Friday 12/16 and Monday 12/19 this meeting is cancelled and will be rescheduled at a later date.)

Service of Prayer for Healing and Peace

2011-12-18T10:50:00.000-08:00

As noted on the Boreal Community Calendar, Cook County Ministerium will host a Service of Prayer for Healing and Peace at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 18 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Grand Marais.

Notice of Meeting Changes at Courthouse

2011-12-17T08:36:00.000-08:00

The Courthouse will be re-opened for business at 10 AM Tuesday, December 20. Below is a schedule of Tuesday meetings with some changes noted:

10:00 am County Board Meeting in Commissioner's Room (no change)

1:30 pm Human Services Board Meeting in Commissioner's Room

(note time change from 8:30 am)

The County Board Work Session on One Percent Projects previously scheduled for 1:30 on December 20 is CANCELLED and will be rescheduled in 2012.

A meeting for all County Employees will be held in the Commissioner's Room at 8:00 am on Tuesday, December 20. Representatives from Law Enforcement and the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) will be present to provide support & assistance, information and answer questions.

For general information in understanding traumatic stress that you or someone you care about may be experiencing, see Handout from the Human Development Center (HDC). For more information about the Human Development Center go to the HDC Website.

As Sheriff Mark Falk stated in yesterday's press conference, "We are a resilient community, a strong community, with lots of good people and we will make it through this." The Sheriff also asked us to keep our thoughts and prayers with the victims and their families.

All for now. Peace.

Courthouse Shooting Information

2011-12-16T18:51:00.000-08:00

A press conference was held today regarding yesterday's tragic shooting at the Cook County Courthouse. Click HERE to listen to the report as posted on the WTIP website.

Click HERE for today's news releases from the Office of Communications, a Division of the Minnesota Department of Safety.

Periodic updates will also be provided on the Cook County website.

County Board Meeting for November 22, 2011

2011-11-23T12:44:00.000-08:00

County Board Chair Jim Johnson and Commissioners Hakes, Hall, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for the November 22 County Board Meeting. Also present were Tim Scannell, Braidy Powers and Janet Simonen.

Public Comment
Stan Tull asked the County Board about its contractual relationship with Sirius Golf Advisors wondering if they were still under contract as a Consultant to the Board.

Pat Campanaro encouraged the County Board to seek outside funding for the Superior National Golf Course project and to hire local contractors whenever possible.

County Highway Department
The County Board approved the final payment to Edwin E. Thoreson, Inc. on project CP 10-02 Furnish Aggregate Stockpile, Class I.

Andrew Graupmann was selected from (5) applicants for the Engineering Technician vacated by Fran Johnson. No local applications were received.

Cook County Historical Society
The County Board voted to support an application for grant funding for the Cook County Historical Society from the MN Lake Superior Coastal program for a Maritime Heritage Exhibit. The CCHS, owned by the County, is an excellent site for this type of exhibit as it was once the lighthouse keeper's residence.

Office of Planning and Zoning
The Cook County Planning Commission held a Public Hearing on Wednesday, November 9, to take public comments on formulating recommendations for several proposed ordinance amendments. Nobody from the public was in attendance at this Public Hearing, nor were any comments submitted before or after the Public Hearing. After much deliberation, the Planning Commission unanimously voted to forward the following recommendations. At its November 22 regularly scheduled meeting, the County Board supported the recommendations of the Planning Commission:

Section 1.1 of the Subdivision Ordinance--Proposals for subdivision of property located within the jurisdictional limits of the City of Grand Marais (2 miles beyond Grand Marais City limits) are now exempt by Cook County from the requirements of the Cook County Subdivision Ordinance.

Section 9 of the Zoning Ordinance--The Planning Commission and the County Board felt it was too restrictive to require "Type I" septic system standards for non-conforming lots when the MN Rules Chapter 7080 allows for some more moderate design standards. As such, the words "Type I" have been removed out of Section 9.03(A)(2) and 9.03(B)(2). This modification will result in this one ordinance provision to be less restrictive than the state statute language. The County Board approved this 4-1 with Jim Johnson dissenting.

Section 14 of the Zoning Ordinance--Language for Criteria for Decisions for Variances was tweaked only slightly per the recommendation of County Attorney Tim Scannell. The changes were semantic in nature.

Potential Cook County Zoning Ordinance Amendment--A Public Hearing will be scheduled (most likely in December) and posted for proposed changes to Section 4.09(C)(1) and Section 4.17(C)(1)(c) related to Planned Unit Developments within the jurisdictional boundaries of the City of Grand Marais.

County Attorney
At the recommendation of County Attorney Tim Scannell, the County Board authorized the hiring of Attorney Jean Smith at 35 hours/week for the open Victim's Advocate/Paralegal position. $32,000 of this position is funded by the State.

Maintenance Department
The Board accepted the resignation of Maintenance Department employee John Johnson. A temporary replacement will be hired until a decision regarding how best to fill this position can be made.

1% Library Project
Library Director Linda Chappell and Library Board President David Quick updated the County Board on the Library Project budget line items for carpet replacement, relocation expenses and FFE (Furniture, Fixtures, Equipement). Chappell and Quick also presented a list for FFE at a cost of $95,885. The County Board approved these purchases up to $95,885 to be paid for with a) $50,000 allocated for FFE, b) $9,250 in a Restricted Capital Fund for carpet from the City/County, and c) Unused funds budgeted for the relocation of the Library. It is good news that the relocation of the Library was significantly less than anticipated due to length of construction time and rents negotiated.

1% Community Center Project
Commissioner Hakes reported that Tim Scannell, Braidy Powers, Commissioner Sobanja and she have done some preliminary exploration into potential 3rd party management for the proposed Community Center. An introductory telecon with Mark Hennessy representing the YMCA organization and Tom Wacholz of ORB Management was held to explore the possibility of working together. A follow up meeting with YMCA personnel is being scheduled to discuss this further and to also include Diane Booth. Other management options for the proposed new Community Center include the County and Community Education.

1% Superior National Golf Course Project
On Monday, November 14, the County Board met to discuss the Superior National Golf Course Project. At this November 14th meeting, the Board made a motion to allocate a total of $3.1 million of One Percent Local Sales Option Tax funding for Phase I of this Plan to improve Superior National Golf Course, contingent upon County Board review of the overall One Percent Funding plan. (Please note that Hakes and Hall voted NO on this motion.) The County Board has scheduled a meeting to discuss the overall One Percent Funding on Tuesday, December 20, from 1:30 to 4:30 pm. As always, this meeting is open to the public.

2012 Truth in Taxation Information

2011-11-21T14:31:00.001-08:00

Go to: http://co.cook.mn.us/index.php/public-notices for information regarding 2012 Truth in Taxation.

A Special Meeting of the Cook County Board of Commissioners will be held at the Courthouse on Monday, November 28, at 6 pm. The Board will review the proposed 2012 Cook County budget and levy and the impact that they have on property taxes. This meeting is open to the public and citizens will be given an opportunity to provide input regarding the issues being discussed.

County Board Meeting for November 15, 2011

2011-11-20T16:57:00.000-08:00

My Dad, Herb Hakes, passed away on November 15, so I was not in attendance at the November 15, 2011 County Board Meeting. Minutes from this meeting will be published in the Cook County News Herald or may be obtained by contacting Janet Simonen at 387-3602.

My Dad died on the same date as my Mom, just four years later. His Memorial Service was held Saturday, November 19, in Aitkin.

My Dad was one of the good guys. He was hardworking, honest & true, loving & kind, fair & firm, fun-loving, faithful, optimistic, trustworthy, responsible, thoughtful. He was a Believer. He was my teacher and my "go-to" guy; I trusted him implicitly. Dad always had my best interest at heart. He was forgiving, always giving me (and others) a second chance. He believed in wiping the slate clean and fresh starts.

I miss Dad desperately. I find comfort in knowing that the world is a better place because of my Dad. And, I am a better person because of my him. I am grateful for my Dad and thank God for him.

Dad died after a courageous struggle with Parkinson's Disease and Lewy Body Dementia.

Superior National Golf Course Special Meeting

2011-11-14T16:22:00.000-08:00

A special meeting of the Cook County Board of Commissioners was held this morning to discuss the business plan that Sirius Golf Course Advisors prepared for the Superior National Golf Course in Lutsen. County Board Chair Jim Johnson and Commissioners Hakes, Hall, Martinson and Sobanja were all present. Other County Staff in attendance were Braidy Powers and Janet Simonen.

Discussion at this meeting surrounded the Superior National Golf Course Business Plan as presented by Sirius Golf Advisors. John Waite of Sirius Golf Advisors and Golf Course Architect Jeff Brauer gave a basic overview of the Business Plan and proposed course layout for the "Best 18". Others present were Bob Fenwick, Mike Litfin, Jim King, George Nelson and and a few members of the Public.

For a complete copy of this plan, contact County Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers. In the meantime, read on for a very brief summary of the proposed plan as I understand it today:

The Plan proposed is basically to create a "World Class 18-Holes" resort quality course (currently there are 27 holes at Superior National). The current layout for this "new" course involves part of all three current nine holes, plus two holes that are routed "up the river" on land owned by the ski resort (to be negotiated).

Phase I Construction will begin with renovation of the current River nine holes, an irrigation lake, and a new bridge which will become the "back nine" for the "World Class 18-Holes" course. While the construction for this part is going on, golfers will be playing the Mountain and Canyon 9's as an 18-hole course. Phase II work will include partial rebuilding of 4 holes, rebuilding 2 holes in place, building 3 new holes, and driving range.

The total estimated cost for this work to renovate the existing 27 holes to this "World Class 18-Holes" resort quality course is just under $6 million. Sirius Golf Advisors, the EDA and SNGC Management are requesting that ~$3.1 million of this be funded with One Percent Local Sales Option Tax funds. The balance would be funded through possible grants, bonding, and revenues. Proponents of the Plan believe the total impact to the County will be $3.3 million per year.

After a lengthy discussion, the County Board passed 3-2 a motion to allocate a total of $3.1 million of One Percent Local Sales Option Tax funding for Phase I of this Plan, contingent upon County Board review of the overall One Percent Funding plan.

Voting YES to allocate $3.1M for Phase I as described above were Jim Johnson, Bruce Martinson and Fritz Sobanja. Voting NO were Sue Hakes and Jan Hall.

I voted against this plan for the following reasons:

1. The Plan is too financially risky. There is a lack of supporting evidence for the projected revenues, projected expenses and projected economic impact. Golf is not a growing industry.

2. The proposed Plan is an extreme deviation from what was presented to the Public at the time of the Referendum for the One Percent Tax. Initially, there was a request to the County to pay off ~$400K in bond debt (not allowable under One Percent legislation). At/near the time of the Referendum passing, the SNGC allocation from the County Board was $0. Now the request is for $3.1 million.

3. This plan does not include a commitment from any funding source other than the County. When the County Board earmarked $1.8 million for improvements to SNGC it was based on the idea that there be a sound business plan and success in obtaining funding from other sources without incurring new debt.

I support reasonable improvements at Superior National Golf Course, but to date there is not a sound plan for moving forward.

County Board Meeting for November 8, 2011

2011-11-11T09:56:00.000-08:00

I'm thrilled to report that Board Chair Jim Johnson was in attendance to chair our meeting. Jim has been absent due to some health issues; it was wonderful to welcome Jim back. Commissioners Hakes, Hall, Martinson and Sobanja, as well as Braidy Powers, Tim Scannell and Janet Simonen were also in attendance.

Public Comment
Hal Greenwood presented the County Board with a proposal for renovation of the existing City of Grand Marais swimming pool. The County does not own this pool and recommended Mr. Greenwood present this information to the City Council.

Cook County Highway Department
County Highway Engineer David Betts presented a draft "Subordinate Governmental Service District' described as a Private Roadway Maintenance Policy for Cook County. The purpose of the SGSD is to provide a mechanism for residents and owners of private roadways to maintain their roads and spread the costs equitably. The County Board authorized Betts to publish the policy and to send written copies to those neighborhoods that could potentially benefit from the policy. Betts will also arrange meetings for public comment at the appropriate time. Click here for a copy of the draft proposal (with my scribbles).

Other Highway Department business included 1) authorization of the final payment to Edwin E. Thoresen, Inc. for the Class I Aggregate Stockpile, 2) awarding Bud's Towing & Plowing the Voyageur's Point snowplowing contract, and 3) approving the contract to renew the agreement between the MN DOT and the County for Federal Participation in Construction.

Building Maintenance
The County Board authorized replacing the furnace in the Community Center at a cost of $2816 as presented by Maintenance Director Brian Silence.

Auditor-Treasurer
The Board authorized the execution of certain documents to allow the refinancing of the courthouse/law enforcement debt. Documents will be prepared by the Fryberger Law Firm and reviewed by the County Attorney prior to approval at bond closing.

Outdoor Ice and Warming House
Tim Meyer, Meyer Group Architects, presented the Board with his proposal for additional services related to a warming house for the Outdoor Ice. Meyer Group is proposing a not-to-exceed fee of $5,000 plus a reimburseable expense of $750 for conceptual design services for a warming house. Meyer Group will consider incorporating the warming house into the existing community center, as well as a stand alone structure. Also being considered is the incorporation of a concession stand.

Border Security Bill
The County Board discussed the proposed legislation allowing the Secretary of Homeland Security jurisdiction over all Federal Land within 100 miles of the US Border. The County Board has concerns about the potential for negative impact to the environment. A letter expressing this concern to Senators Klobuchar and Franken and Representative Cravaack from the Cook County Board will be drafted by Commissioner Hakes for review at the next County Board meeting. There was general agreement among the Commissioners that while maintaining national security is critical the proposed bill was "overkill".

PUBLIC HEARING on Cook County Social Host Ordinance
A Public Hearing was held on the proposed Cook County Social Host Ordinance. The City of Grand Marais is also working to adopt this Ordinance.

County Board Meeting

2011-10-25T19:24:00.000-07:00

County Chair Jim Johnson was absent from today's Board Meeting due to illness (http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/bevandjimjohnson) and Vice-Chair Jan Hall was absent as she was participating in the Heart of the Continent International Congress Event. Commissioner Fritz Sobanja chaired the meeting in their absence. Commissioners Hakes and Martison were present, as were Janet Simonen, Braidy Powers, and Tim Scannell.

Public Comment
No member of the public opted to address the County Board.

Cook County Housing Program
Nancy Grabko, Housing Administrator and Mike Litfin, EDA Board Chair, updated the Board on the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) Small Cities Development Program. The Cook County/Grand Marais EDA and the Lake County HRA will make a fourth joint application for additional housing rehabilitation funding and Grand Marais commercial rehab funding in the upcoming application cycle. Pre-applications are due November 17, 2011. If invited, final applications are due January 31, 2012.

Grabko also informed the Board that the Commercial Rehab Review Committee (Hal Greenwood-Chair, Vicki Wenz, Anna Hamilton) has recommended the EDA support the following (2) projects for rehabilitation: Cook County Senior Center and The Garage.

County State Aid Highway 8
At the request of Commissioner Hakes, County Engineer David Betts provided the County Board with cost information to apply Class I gravel to CSAH 8 to alleviate the problems of flat tires and potholes. Betts calculated this cost to be between $113,000 and $147,000. Hakes also asked Betts about crowning the road for possible relief from the problem. Betts said material costs for this were also cost prohibitive. Betts said the County Highway Department will continue to grade the road when possible to make it passable. Winter snowpack should be better for driving conditions. Betts estimates the road will be paved in mid-June 2012.

County/Federal Land Exchange
Two County Board Work Sessions have been scheduled to discuss the County's land exchange with the Federal government: Nov. 4 at 8:30 am and Nov. 15 2-5 pm. These meetings are likely to be held in the Commissioner's Room. Watch for the official posting.

Hospital Sales Tax Funds
The Cook County North Shore Hospital requested funding from their 1994 1% Sales Tax Fund to purchase a Hematology Analyzer for $44,500. This request was approved.

Airport Grant Resolution
The Board approved a resolution for a grant agreement with MN DOT for a runway extension benefit cost analysis and runway design in the amount of $309,510.

Grant Agreement with Arrowhead Electric Cooperative
Arrowhead Electric Cooperative (AEC) has received funding from the USDA Rural Utilities Services under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to build, operate and maintain an advanced, ultra-high-speed broadband network in Cook County. The County Board approved the Grant Agreement between Arrowhead Electric Cooperative (AEC) and Cook County in the amount of $4,000,000 to ensure AEC will deliver high-capacity internet connectivity, video, telephone services and television services to every home business and government agency that now receives electricity from Arrowhead Electric or from the Grand Marais Public Utilities Commission. County funding for this grant is part of the One Percent Local Sales Option Tax being collected and passed by voter referendum in the Fall 2008.

EDA and Superior National Golf Course (SNGC)
EDA Bridge Loan--For the past several years, the EDA has borrowed and paid back ~$200K from the County for cash-flow during the winter months at Superior National Golf Course (SNGC). This $200K loan for 2011 is currently in the proceses of being paid off in full and on time. The County Board approved a new bridge loan for 2012 in the amount of $225K for 1-year at 1%.

SNGC Roof Repair and Equipment Purchase--The County Board approved a) roof replacement on the SNGC Clubhouse ($12,000), and b) the purchase of (5) Toro Mowers (~$183,000) as previously agreed to at the EDA/County Board Work Session on August 18, 2011.

SNGC Business Plan--John Waite of Sirius Golf Advisors (SGA) gave a brief summary of the September 2011 Superior National Golf Course Business Plan. In this report, SGA feels the best option for sustained success for SNGC, and to maximize economic impact to the area would be to become a 36-hole resort quality course. Achievement of this goal would be done in (3) phases:
I. Get 18 "world class" golf holes
II. Build a new clubhouse and cart storage facility
III. Renovate the remaining nine holes and add nine more holes to become a 36-hole resort facility.

At today's meeting, Waite, with the support of the EDA, recommended the County fund Phase I to renovate/build 18 "world class" golf holes in its entirety at an estimated $3.2 Million from the One Percent Sales Tax money. This recommendation was not received well by me for a variety of reasons. (Because I am careful to NOT speak for the other commissioners in my blog, I speak only for myself on this matter. That is not to say that other commissioners did not also express concern about this). I do not believe funding SNGC for $3M (or more) is what the Public had in mind when they passed the One Percent Sales Tax referendum.

Bond Resolutions
The County Board approved (2) resolutions awarding the sale of
I. $1,420,000 for GO Capital Improvement Bonds resulting in ~$138,000 savings/4 years
II. $8,500,000 GO Obligation Sales Tax Revenue Bonds for One Percent Projects

Jim Johnson Coverage
For the next few weeks, Board Chair Jim Johnson will be unable to attend the various meetings for Committees he serves on. While Johnson is out due to illness, other members of the County Board will attend Johnson's Committee Meetings for him. When issues arise, constituents in Johnson's district are encouraged to contact another Commissioner while Johnson is recovering and temporarily unavailable. We miss you, Jim!

Human Service Board and County Board Meetings for October 18!

2011-10-18T22:25:00.000-07:00

Cook County Human Services Board

Chair Sue Hakes opened the meeting at 8:30 pm. Board members present were Jan Hall, Bruce Martinson and Fritz Sobanja. Jim Johnson, Diane Fitzgerald and Carla LaPointe were absent. Also present were PHHS Director Sue Futterer, Jan Parish, Jennifer Rue and Anna Sandstrom.

Committee Reports

No reports were given as none of the Committees met since the last Human Services Board meeting.

Adult Mental Health Case Management

Jennifer Rue gave the Board an informative presentation about her work as an Adult Mental Health Social Worker for Cook County. The target population served by the Adult Mental Health program is adults that are diagnosed with serious and persistent mental illness. This program is voluntary and clients come to the County most often by referral through their therapist or doctor. Others may be referred by family members, other members of the community, or may make the decision on their own.

The goal of the Adult Mental Health program is to assist people in learning how to manage their mental illness to lead a full life. Rue described it as being similar to managing a physical chronic illness such as diabetes. Her role is to connect people with services and resources that are available that they may be unaware of or have no access to.

Rue's current active caseload is approximately 20 clients ranging in age from 22 to 84. Approximately 1/3 of her clients receive services outside of Cook County, most of these are in Duluth. She also attends to an average of 10-15 contacts per month for people in need, but for which a case is not opened. Examples of this might include Cook County visitors that are in crisis or residents of Cook County that need help in securing house.

This work is important and needed. According to national studies, adults diagnosed with serious and persistent mental illnesses are dying on average 25 years earlier than the general public, mostly due to lack of access or information to medical help. In 2010, MN began an initiative at the state level to improve life expectancy of Minnesotans diagnosed with mental illness by 10 years within 10 years.

Jennifer Rue answered several questions from the Board about her work and the Adult Mental Health Initiative. It became quite clear that she finds her work personally rewarding.

Financial Report--Jan Parish, Income Maintenance and Fiscal Supervisor
Jan Parish updated the Board on the budget noting that the Fund Balance is approximately $100,000 less than one year ago. As County Tax funds and grants (PHER) are collected, the fund balance should increase. In general, Parish is reasonably comfortable with the status of the budget expenditures and collections.

Parish complemented Jennifer Rue's presentation by explaining how the Adult Mental Health program is funded by the State of MN through grants and billing for services.

Director's Report--Sue Futterer
Sue Futterer reported that e-Docs has been selected as the vendor to supply management software for Region 3 Income Maintenance Redesign. This decision was based after comparing e-Docs to another very qualified vendor. Ultimately e-Docs was selected based on overall cost, compatibility, reliability, services provided, ability to expand, ease of use.

Futterer participated in the Fall MACSSA Conference held in St. Paul where she gave a presentation on the Region III work in Redesign.

Futterer reported that Public Health has been working with success to contain the spread of Pertusis (aka Whooping Cough) in Cook County. Six cases have been reported in the County.

Futterer provided her 3rd Quarter AWS work report. No problems were noted by either Futterer or the Board.

Items for Board Action
The Board adopted a resolution to adopt the Region III Adult Mental Health Initiative By-Laws. The mission of the Region III Adult Mental Health Initiative is to improve the quality of life of all adults with mental illness through the development and enhancement of resources, support and services in Northeastern Minnesota. Cook County is represented on this Board by Grace Buchard; Grand Portage is represented by Roxy Sherer.

The Board acted to accept the 2012-2013 County MFIP Biennial Service Agreement and the Vulnerable Children and Adults Act Service Plan.

County Board Meeting
County Board Chair Jim Johnson was absent from today's meeting, so Vice-Chair Jan Hall ran the meeting. Commissioners present were Hakes, Martinson and Sobanja. Also present for all/part of the meeting were Braidy Powers, Janet Simonen and Tim Scannell.

Vice-Chair Hall opened the meeting noting that she and Jim Johnson share their birthday today. The County Board wished Jan a happy birthday and also sent their best birthday wishes to Jim Johnson in his absence.

Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to address the County Board at today's meeting.

County Sheriff Mark Falk
The County Board approved the DNR Off-Highway Vehicle Safety Grand for fiscal Year 2012 as requested by Sheriff Falk. This grant has been awarded to Cook County for $14,297.

County Highway Department--Highway Engineer David Betts
David Betts informed the Board that a bid from Winchester Higgins for snowplowing West Rosebush Lane was inadvertently missed when bids were considered and decided upon at the October 11 Board Meeting. Betts requested that the Board amend their previous motion to award the West Rosebush Lane contract to Higgins based on his low bid. No other changes were made to the other low bids approved.

Betts reported that County Road 8 was graded last week and that it is currently more passable. Commissioner Hakes reported that she has still been receiving multiple complaints of flat tires on this 2.5 mile stretch of road under construction. Hakes asked Betts if it made any sense to crown the road. Betts said he would prepare a cost estimate for crowning the road or adding Class I gravel.

Auditor/Treasurer's Office--Braidy Powers
Braidy Powers presented the 2011 3rd Quarter County Budget for Board review. After adjustments, the County is just slightly under budget year-to-date.

The County Board passed a resolution to support the Parks and Legacy Grant program, Regional Trail Grant program and Local Trail Connections program trail administrators and their grant applications.

One Percent Projects Overall
ORB Management provided the Board with an overview status of the One Percent Projects budgets and completion to date.

Community Center Project
ORB Management, supported by Meyer Group and JLG Architects, made a joint recommendation to the Board to locate the proposed Community Center in the NW Corner of the county-owned property at the corner of the Gunflint Trail and 4th Avenue West stating, "The team feels this is the best location considering the pros and cons related to site development cost, political issues and programming".

Discussion by the County Board ensued. Ultimately the Board approved a motion to locate the proposed Community Center in the NW corner as recommended by the Design Team. The Board also felt this location met the Board directive given last June to locate the building in the area that is least disruptive to existing recreation amenities. Placing the building in the NW corner eliminates the need to relocate any of the existing amenities.

Deciding on a location for the building now allows for decision making about locating the outdoor ice, ball fields and other outdoor amenities. The Board has expressed a will to expedite building outdoor ice for hockey, skating and broom ball in time for the 2012-2013 winter season. A meeting with the Community Center ICE Committee, ORB and Meyer Group, and representatives from the Hockey Association and Curling will be meeting in the next week or two to discuss location of the outdoor ice and a warming facility.

Making a decision on the location of the Community Center Building does not change the "suspension" status for designing the Community Center building.

Cook County Historical Society Application for 1% Funding
Historical Society Director Carrie McHugh, accompanied by Historical Society Board members Gene Erickson and Hal Greenwood presented their request for $350,000 of 1% funding to build an annex to the museum building located downtown Grand Marais. The County Board expressed general support for the project, but explained that resolution of the (7) projects identified prior to the referendum vote would need to be made before additional projects could be added to the list.

BWCAW
A Board Worksession has been scheduled for November 15 to discuss the USFS/County Land Exchange. The meeting will be held in the Commissioner's Room.

Legislative Priorities
The Board discussed legislative priorities to be forwarded to both Arrowhead Counties Association and MN Rural Counties Caucus. Priorities for Cook County include Budget issues such as restoring the Market Value Homestead Credit (MVHC), ensuring Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT), and State funding for all mandated programs. Transportation funding for rural MN was also considered a high priority.

County Board Meeting

2011-09-27T20:08:00.000-07:00

Chair Jim Johnson was absent today from the County Board meeting. Vice-Chair Jan Hall ran the meeting. Commissioners Hakes, Martinson and Sobanja were present. Also in attendance were Braidy Powers, Janet Simonen and Tim Scannell.

Public Comment
No member of the public opted to address the County Board at today's meeting.

Association of MN Counties (AMC)
The Cook County Board welcomed Jeff Spartz, Executive Director of the Association of MN Counties, to today's County Board Meeting. Spartz views visiting the various counties throughout the State an important part of his job as Executive Director, stating that "it's where the work is done". He encouraged the Commissioners to continue their participation in the work of AMC.

Proposed Social Host Ordinance
After review and discussion, the County Board moved to start the process to allow adoption of a Social Host Ordinance for Cook County. Among other things, a Social Host Ordinance makes it unlawful to provide an environment where underage drinking takes place. Both County Attorney Tim Scannell and County Sheriff Mark Falk are recommending the County and the City of Grand Marais adopt a Social Host Ordinance. A Public Hearing is scheduled for 11:00 am on November 8, 2011. A comprehensive educational component will be conducted with the adoption of this ordinance.

Economic Development Authority (EDA) Budget Request for 2012
EDA Director, Matt Geretschlaeger, along with several members of the EDA Board were present for a presentation of the 2012 EDA Budget Request. The EDA is requesting the County levy $148,566 for the EDA which includes a 1/2 time Director Salary of $34,000 plus Employment Taxes and PERA. The County Board questioned several of the line item expenses. The County Board also asked about the efforts to sell lots in the Business Development Park. No decision about this request was made but will be discussed as part of the overal 2012 County Budget.

Nancy Grabko was also present at this meeting. She gave a detailed overview of the success of the Cook County/Grand Marais EDA Housing Program for the past 3 years noting that the average return on investment for this program for every dollar spent is $8.40. Grabko, within the EDA Budget, is requesting $20,000 to be used as matching funds for housing projects. These funds would provide the required local support for multiple grant applications.

Highway Department
The County Board approved a capital purchase request for a plasma cutter ($2738) and pallet racks ($5383) for the Highway Department.

The County Board also reported to County Engineer Dave Betts and Maintenance Supervisor Russell Klegstad concerns raised by the public about County Road #8 including reports of flat tires. Betts and Klegstad updated the Board on the status of the project, including the Class 5 gravel that has been put down. Betts and Klegstad urged the Public to heed the speed limit signs for safety purposes and to reduce any damage to tires.

Bond Resolutions
Carolyn Drude of Ehler Financial Advisors was present to answer any questions regarding issuing bonds for a) $1,420,000 for the "refinancing" of the Courthouse and Law Enforcement Center to save an estimated $127,000 over 4.5 years, and b) $8,500,000 for Sales Tax Revenue Bonds for the proposed funding of One Percent Projects including the Library, Birch Grove Community Center, Broadband Grant to Arrowhead Electric, and the Community Center. Both bond resolutions were adopted by the County Board.

Human Services Board, County Board Meeting and Biomass Work Session

2011-09-20T20:55:00.000-07:00

Cook County Human Services Board Meeting
All members of the Cook County Human Services Board were present for today's meeting: Chair Sue Hakes, Jan Hall, Jim Johnson, Bruce Martinson, Fritz Sobanja, Diane Fitzgerald and Carla LaPointe.  County staff present was Sue Futterer, Jan Parish, Anna Sandstrom and Janet Simonen.  Ric Schaefer, Arrowhead Health Alliance Director, was also present.

Committee Reports
Board members reported on the various committees held this past month. The common thread for all is the challenge of doing more (or at least the same) with less funding. Commissioner Hall reported that Arrowhead Regional Corrections has labored to cut nearly $1M from its budget, a portion of which will benefit Cook County.  Hall also reported that ARC has received a 2-year grant from the US Department of Justice in the amount of $590,000. Sue Hakes reported that the North Shore Collaborative heard a presentation from the Two Harbors Area Community Fund about the coming grant cycle. The Two Harbors Area Community Fund has funded the LOTS reading program in the past. And Jim Johnson noted with regrets that Darryl Smith is retiring and will really be missed.

Financial Report--Jan Parish, Income Maintenance and Fiscal Supervisor
Jan Parish gave the monthly PHHS financial report; the budget is on track for 2011. Jan also wrote and shared an interesting (and quite entertaining) anecdote about the changes she has observed and participated in during her 30 years of service in the Cook County Public Health and Human Services Department.

Director's Report--Sue Futterer
Sue Futterer reported that the fiscal case analysis for the Region 3 Redesign Income Maintenance Project is complete and currently being studied by the Human Service Directors in the Region.  They are also evaluating the responses from the (2) potential vendors for the Redesign Software to understand the benefits and trade offs of each system.

Futterer shared a Minnesota Department of Health publication entitled "The Human and Economic Cost of Alcohol Use in Minnesota" dated March 2011. Highlighted in that report is the fact that the economic costs of alcohol use in Minnesota are an estimated 17 times greater than the $296 million in tax revenues collected from alcohol sales.

Futterer reported that the School Community Action Team is focusing on the development of a "Social Host Ordinance". A Social Host Ordinance is different from State laws that prohibit adults from providing alcohol to minors. Instead, it makes it unlawful to provide an environment where underage drinking takes place.

The Vulnerable Children and Adults Act is undergoing some legislative changes. Funding for these service is declining and all indications are that it will continue to decline.

Lastly, Futterer reported that Hilja Iverson has been working on pre-evacuation planning in case it is needed for the Pagami Creek and/or other fires in Cook County.

Arrowhead Health Alliance (AHA) Report--Ric Schaefer, Director
The Board welcomed Ric Schaefer to its meeting. Ric was present to give an overview of the Arrowhead Health Alliance.  AHA is a multi-county health and human services joint powers entity between (4) counties: Cook, Lake, Carlton, Koochiching. The vision of AHA is to serve all of NE Minnesota with integrated pubic health care and human services that are efficient, accessible and affordable. Since its inception AHA has successfully obtained funding for and delivered several programs including a $375,000 HRSA grant for Universal Home Visiting for pregnant or postpartum women and their families. AHA is working to expand its programs to provide services to a greater population base.

Board Actions
The Board formalized (and welcomed) the appointment of Patty Nordahl to the PHHS Advisory Committee to complete the three-year term ending 12/31/12 of the previous Birch Grove Foundation Director.

County Board Meeting
Chair Jim Johnson and all members of the County Board--Hakes, Hall, Martinson, Sobanja--were present for today's meeting. County Staff present included Braidy Powers and Janet Simonen.

Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to address the County Board.

Pagami Creek Fire Update
Members of the Northern Rockies Type I National Incident Team gave the County Board an update on the Pagami Creek Fire burning in Lake County. Approximately 23% of the fire has been contained; it has not crossed into Cook County. It is anticipated that the fire will be under control by Monday, September 26, weather pending. To date $3.3 million has been spent on this fire and two firefighters have been injured.

Maintenance Department--Brian Silence, Director
Representing the Colvill Community Hall Committee, Sharon Bloomquist joined Brian Silence in a request for new tables and chairs for the Colvill Community Hall. The County Board authorized up to $4000 for this purchase. Bloomquist and Silence agreed to comparison shop and reduce the costs if possible. Funding will come from the unorganized township budget.

The County Board authorized Brian Silence to have the walkway on the North side of the Courthouse repaired.

County Assessor--Mary Black
Mary Black gave the Commissioners an overview of the current Cook County Taxation Abatement Policy. Jim Johnson will work with Black to determine whether or not changes are warranted or recommended.

County Engineer--David Betts
Dave Betts notified the Board that Fran Johnson will be retiring effective November 1, 2011. The Board accepted Johnson's resignation with regret and appreciation for his service. The Board authorized Betts to begin the process of filling the position that will be vacated.

The County Board authorized Betts to advertise for snow plowing bids on the Evergreen Road, Voyageur's point, Mile-O-Pine Road, and West Rosebush Lane.

The County Board authorized the Highway Department to enter into a contract for geotechnical borings and evaluations as part of the Highway Department facilities Study and Master Plan. The estimated cost is $3500.

Law Enforcement--County Sheriff Mark Falk
Communications leases between the County and the US Forest Service have been updated for both Gunflint Trail and Mid-trail. Facilities include under these leases include radio communications towers and equipment shelters. Both leases will expire one minute after midnight on 12/31/2030.

Auditor-Treasurer--Braidy Powers
28 annual renewal applications for Liquor Licenses were approved by the County Board. All are subject to applicable approvals from the County Attorney, Sheriff, Town Board, liquor liability and worker's compensation compliance, state and local ordinances, etc.

The Board approved amendments to the Travel Policy as recommended by Braidy Powers to ensure consistency within the Policy as it relates to advances and reimbursements for travel expenses.

The Public Meeting on the 2012 County Budget and Levy (formerly known as Truth in Taxation Meeting) has been set for Monday, November 28. This meeting must be held after 6 pm.

One Percent Projects
ORB Management provided an update to the Master Schedule for all 1% Projects. This schedule has been determined by the County Board and is used as a tool for program tracking and prioritization of projects. ORB updates this schedule regularly and reports to the County Board the 3rd Tueday of each month.

ORB reported on the Library project. Nearly 40% of the total project costs have been paid out on the project. The project is on schedule and budget. Bi-weekly site visits have been scheduled beginning tomorrow, September 21. Sue Hakes will be in attendace at that walk-thru.

ORB also reported on the Birch Grove Community Center. Phase I of this project was completed in mid-August and under budget. Meyer Group was selected by the Tofte Town Board to develop the master plan for this project and to work with ORB to complete the planning a design of the warming house and skating rink. As of September, 8% of the 1% funds allocated to this project have been spent. ORB will continue to work with Tofte to prioritize the proposed projects for the Community Center to stay within the budget.

2012 Budget
The County Board supported a request from Commissioner Hakes to continue meeting on the 2012 budget to decrease spending, lower costs, and increase revenues. The next budget meeting has been set for 9:30 am on Friday October 7 in the Commissioner's Room at the Courthouse.

Biomass Work Session
Representatives from the Cook County Local Energy Project (CCLEP), Dovetail Partners, the University of Minnesota and Local Project Coordinator Gary Atwood met with the County Board to present their report, "Forest Biomass Heating and Electricity in Cook County, MN".  This report presents the results of the first phase of a two-phase study that explores the options, opportunities and implications of using forest biomass as an energy source for the heating of homes, business and public buildings in Cook County.

Phase I of the study focuses on (3) things: 1) the availability of biomass for energy production; 2) the technologies and system configurations which may be suited to the range of potential applications around Cook County; and 3) a financial evaluation of these systems relative to fossil fuel alternatives. Phase II of this study will provide the basis for determining which options presented in the report, if any, are a good idea for Cook County. Public input and Community involvement will be a part of this evaluation.

A copy of this report will be posted on both the CCLEP and Dovetail Partners websites as early as September 21.

Cook County Board of Commissioner's Meeting

2011-09-13T18:54:00.000-07:00

County Board Chair Jim Johnson and Commissioners Hakes, Hall, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for today's regularly scheduled County Board Meeting. Also present were Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers, County Attorney Tim Scannell and Personnel Director/Board Secretary Janet Simonen.

Public Comment
Lance Johnson addressed the County Board during the Public Comment period expressing his concerns about 1% funding being spent on the Community Center and Superior National Golf Course, ORB Management, and the City of Grand Marais contract with Burbach Aquatics.

Fire Update
Melissa Groves of the USFS gave the County Board an update on the fires in both Lake and Cook Counties. She also informed the Board that a Type II Firefighting Team will be on standby in Grand Marais beginning today. Information about these fires may be found at: http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2534/ Information may also be found on the Boreal Homepage, the WTIP North Shore Community Radio Homepage, or on the dial at 90.7 FM.

Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD)
The Board authorized a request from Kerrie Fabius, District SWCD Manager, to support the submission of a Clean Water Fund Grant to upgrade 4 County boat landings (McFarland Lake, Clearwater Lake, (2) on Saganaga Lake). The Board approved up to $15,000 to be used as a match for this effort. Funding will come from the Forest Access Road Fund. Fabius will also explore opportunities in the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage funding.

County Attorney's Office
The County Board accepted, with regrets, the resignation of Victim Witness Coordinator Susan Maijala. The Board also authorized County Attorney Tim Scannell and Personnel Director Janet Simonen to create a job description to expand the position of Victim Witness Coordinator to 35 hours/week by combining it with a ~1/2 time Paralegal position.

PUBLIC HEARING on Intent to Issue Capital Improvement Bonds
A Public Hearing was held to provide an opportunity for the public to express their views concerning (i) the County's Capital Improvement Plan for the years 2011 through 2015; and (ii) the County's intent to issue general obligation bonds in an amount not to exceed $1,450,000. No member of the Public spoke at this Public Hearing and the Board passed a Resolution to accept the plan and to state their intention to issue such bonds. By issuing these Capital Improvement Bonds, the County expects to obtain total savings of approximately $122,445 and eliminate the need for a debt service reserve fund.

Schroeder Township Survey
The County Board authorized a Professional Service Agreement for a Survey in Township 58N Range 5W with Wayne Hensche, Registered Land Surveyor. The cost of the survey will be up to $57,000 with the work to be completed by July 30, 2012.

Hospital Sales Tax Request
Cook County Hospital requested reimbursement of $9659 from the Hospital Sales Tax funds to pay for their 1/2 of the installation of their new facility sign. There is $359,000 remaining in the Hospital Sales Tax Fund to be used to fund capital requests. The County Board approved this request.

Revolving Loan Fund
The County Board approved a Revolving Loan Fund Request for the owners of the Crooked Spoon Restaurant in the amount of $66,800 as recommended by the Revolving Loan Fund.

Preliminary Budget and Levy
The County Board adopted its 2012 Preliminary County Budget and Levy at an increase not-to-exceed 2.75%. In a series of Budget Meetings, the County Board has worked diligently with its Department Heads to increase revenue and cut spending without serious interruption to services. To date the Board has identified over $300,000 in adjustments that will reduce the Levy increase. This work will continue with the Final Budget and Levy to be set in late December.

Abatement Application
The Board approved an Abatement Request from Peggy Lundy for the Cliffdweller Motel by a vote of 4-1 (Commissioner Hakes opposed). The Property Owner requested changing the classification to Ma and Pa Resort from Commercial for assessment 2011/taxes payable 2012. Deadline for submitting this application was January 15, 2011.

Secure Rural Schools Funding
The County Board determined its allocations for Secure Rural Schools (SRS) Funding and will notify the Forest Service of the following: Title I (85%), Title II (8%), Title III (7%). As noted in a National Association of Counties Press Release dated February 16, 2111,

"The Secure Rural Schools Act was passed in 1999 to replace lost revenues to counties and schools because of dramatically reduced timber harvests on federal lands. Since its passage, funding from Secure Rural Schools has allowed counties to continue to provide vitally important public services such as health care, search and rescue operations and maintenance of roads and bridge.

The impact of Secure Rural Schools goes beyond counties and schools. It helps protect vulnerable national forests through enhancement projects and wildfire protection efforts and provides thousands of jobs in the 41states that receive funding under the legislation."

Office of Planning and Zoning
After a long discussion, the County Board voted 4-1 (Commissioner Johnson opposed) to approve a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for Dennis LaBoda to establish a dog kennel operation within the Forest/Agriculture Residential (FAR-2) zone district. The Board approved the CUP as recommended by the County Planning Commission with one additional condition that the dog kennel shall not be less than 500 feet from an existing residence of an adjoining property owner."

Fire Information for Lake and Cook Counties

2011-09-13T15:40:00.000-07:00

Two meetings have been scheduled to provide updates regarding the Fire situation in Lake and Cook Counties:

Tuesday, Sept. 13^th at 7:00 p.m. in the U.S. Forest Service Conference Room in Grand Marais;

Wednesday, Sept. 14^th at 11:00 a.m. in the Poplar Lake Fire Hall on the Gunflint Trail.

Information regarding these public meetings is also being disseminated via Boreal at http://www.boreal.org/ and WTIP at http://www.wtip.org/ or at 90.7 FM.

More on Budgets and the County Board Meeting

2011-08-23T20:22:00.000-07:00

2012 County Budget Hearings
Monday was another full day of Budget Hearings by the County Board. A follow-up meeting with the County Department Heads is scheduled for September 12.

County Board Meeting
County Board Chair Jim Johnson and Commissioners Hakes, Hall, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for today's County Board Meeting. Also present were Braidy Powers, Tim Scannell and Janet Simonen.

Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to address the County Board.

Gunflint Trail Volunteer Fire Department
Chris Steele and Michael Valentini of the Gunflint Trail Volunteer Fire Department (GTVFD) presented the GTVFD proposal for expanding their (3) fire halls: Poplar Lake, Gunflint and Seagull. The proposal includes the addition of a bathroom at Gunflint, storage at Poplar Lake and creation of a Command Post at both Poplar Lake and Seagull. The total cost for this work is estimated to be $550,000 to be paid by raising $50,000 in donations, finding $100,000 in grants and a loan from the County. The County Board authorized a $220,000 loan for 20 years at 1% to the GTVFD to be paid back by increasing the levy in that Fire District. Steele and Valentini said their project has the support of all Lake Associations in the District, Law Enforcement and the Forest Service.

Grand Marais-Cook County Airport Commission
The County Board voted unanimously to update and renew the Operation Service Provider Agreement (OSP), Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) Agreement, Airport Administrator Agreement, and Airport Commission By-Laws as recommended by the Airport Commission.

Highway Department
County Engineer David Betts and Maintenance Supervisor Russell Klegstad asked the County Board for approval to proceed with a surplus equipment auction. The Board approved this request and also a request to replace a broken 3" pump.

Betts also gave a status report on the CSAH 8 road construction project. Originally, this project was ahead of schedule, in part due to the State Shutdown and the availability of the Contractor. Now, due to high demand for the asphalt plant after the State Shutdown, the project is being delayed. CSAH 8 will be prepped and ready for asphalt pavement when it becomes available. The road will have Class 5 gravel laid down.

Law Enforcement
The County Board approved a lease for the County to continue its use of the Devilfish Tower Site. Cook County currently has one antenna on this tower and a small building on the site to house a repeater. This lease is pre-dated to July 1, 2009 and terminates on June 30, 2019 for an annual lease fee of $500.

The County Board also approved a request from Sheriff Falk to support the submission of a $1M grant application to FEMA under the Assistance to Firefighter's Grant (AFG) to offset countywide costs for the migration to the ARMER system.

PUBLIC HEARING to consider changes to the Cook County Fee Schedule
No member of the Public spoke at this Public Hearing and the County Board approved the proposed changes to the Cook County Fee Schedule in Public Health and Human Services and Environmental Health. Most of the changes were slight reductions.

Community Center Ice
The County Board approved a request to purchase Synthetic Ice up to $65,000 using 1% Local Option Sales Tax funds from the Community Center project, subject to a) trial and approval of a sample of this ice by the Cook County Hockey Association, and b) modification to the original Community Center 1% Local Options Sales Tax request.

The Cook County Amatuer Hockey Association and the Community Center Board of Trustees also requested the County Board commit to constructing outdoor ice beginning no later than July 1, 2012. The County Board could not commit to this without a specific plan for the ice; concerns about identifying a location were also expressed. Clearly, however, the County Board is supportive of expediting this process as is reasonable and requested the Hockey Association and Community Center Board of Trustees come forward with a proposal for consideration.

The County Board also reviewed a proposed Lease Agreement between the existing Community Center and the Cook County Curling Club for a period of 5 1/2 months and a fee of $13,750. The Board agreed to the lease agreement in general principal, suggested a few minor changes, and asked County Attorney Tim Scannell to review the contract.

Recycling Center Vehicle
Brian Silence and Tim Nelson requested authorization to purchase a used vehicle for the Recycling Center. The County Board authorized this purchase 4-1 with Commissioner Hakes voting no. Hakes expressed the need to understand the vehicle purchasing policy and confidence that the current policy is the most cost effective.

HOME Consortium Advisory Committee
Sue Hakes asked the County Board to consider appointing Nancy Grabko to the open housing advocate seat on the HOME Consortium Advisory Committee. The Board agreed Grabko would fit the position well and asked Hakes to get a letter of application/interest from Grabko for formal consideration.

One Percent Project Updates
The Board briefly discussed the Superior National Golf Course project noting that $1.8M of the 1% Local Option Sales Tax was set aside for this project at last week's Joint County/EDA Work Session, subject to an acceptable Business Plan. Commissioner Hakes stated that while she appreciated the high bar that the SNGC and EDA had set for themselves to find funding to renovate the golf course and clubhouse, that she would not support any SNGC proposal that required an increase to the levy, bonding, or other new debt. Hakes reminded the Board that the EDA has outstanding debt of ~$1.6M for the Cedar Grove Business Park that is currently the burden of the City of Grand Marais. Overall, the Board shared the concerns expressed by Hakes.

Power It Down Day
Cook County received a friendly, informal memo from the USFS encouraging the County to join with the USFS in "Power It Down Day". The memo asks each of us to turn off our computer, monitor, printer, coffee pot, scanner, copier, plotter and personal appliances when leaving work on Friday. This one simple act helps to cut greenhouse gas emissions from building energy consumption and purchased electricity.

City/County Work Session on Community Center
The County Board and the City Council met to discuss possible options for the City to participate in the Cook County Community Center project.

Budgets, Human Services and the County Board

2011-08-16T19:42:00.000-07:00

2012 County Budget
The County Board, along with the Auditors Office and Department Heads, is working hard on the 2012 Budget. Last Monday and a portion of Tuesday, the County Board held Budget Hearings. These hearings will be completed on August 22. A follow-up meeting with the Department Heads is scheduled for September 12. Click here for the complete 2012 Budget Calendar. These meetings are open to the Public.

Cook County Human Services Board
Human Services Board Chair, Sue Hakes, along with Board members Diane Fitzgerald, Jan Hall, Jim Johnson, Carla LaPointe, Bruce Martinson and Fritz Sobanja were all present for the monthly Human Services Board meeting. Also present were Sue Futterer, Jan Parish, Pat Strand, Anna Jorgenson and Janet Simonen.
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Long Term Care and Waivered Services
Pat Strand, Eligibility Worker and Case Aide, gave an overview of her work. Strand works to provide Long Term Care (LTC) and Waivered Services for the elderly, blind and disabled with the goal of keeping people in their homes as opposed to going to a Care Center facility. Currently there are 34 cases of LTC and Waivered Services and 59 cases of other Medical Assistance and Food Support cases. Strand believes that with recent legislative changes, as well as County demographics and the overall economy, that this caseload will most likely continue to increase.

Strand is the Long Term Care expert in the Human Services Department; her work has been appreciated in Cook County for 23 years.

July 2011 Financial Report
Fiscal and Income Maintenance Supervisor Jan Parish presented the July 2011 Finances. Parish noted that the Cash Balance for the department is down slightly most likely due to the delay in funding caused by the State shutdown. She also noted that the budget is on plan for the current year.

Director's Report
Human Services Director Sue Futterer presented some interesting information she gathered about the impacts and cost benefits of Home Visitation Programs. Currently in Cook County, pregnant or post-partum women and their families are being served by a Universal Home Visiting Grant awarded to Arrowhead Health Alliance. Studies show that programs similar to this have multiple benefits including a significant financial payback.

Futterer updated the Board on the Region 3 Income Maintenance Redesign Project and requested the Board consider funding this project from the General Fund. The Board will take this into consideration as part of setting the overall budget.

Futterer distributed (2) very useful documents for Board information: 2011 Legislative Session: Summary of Laws and 2011 Legislative Session Summary: Local Public Health Association of Minnesota.

Board Actions
The Board approved an amendment to the Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) Agreement between Cook County and Sawtooth Mountain Clinic for bridging funds in the amount of $9,036. The Board also approved a Purchase of Service Agreement between Cook County and Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency (AEOA) for supported work activities for MFIP Clients in the amount of $2,985.

County Board of Commissioners Meeting
Chair Jim Johnson and all Commissioners (Hakes, Hall, Martinson, Sobanja) were present for today's regularly scheduled County Board Meeting.

Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to address the County Board at today's meeting.

Poplar River Alternative Urban Area-wide Review (AUAR)
The Board voted to re-adopt the Lower Poplar River Alternative Urban Area-wide Review (AUAR) along with its mitigation plan for another five year period. This action includes incorporation by reference of two more recent water shed studies.

Highway Department--5th Avenue West Ditch Reconstruction
The County Board awarded the 5th Avenue West Ditch Reconstruction project to low bidder Edwin E. Thoreson for $53,337.81. This project is slated to begin within a week and should be complete by mid-September.

Otis Creek Crossing CSAH 16
County Engineer David Betts provided the County Board with his assessment of the issues and potential solutions for the Otis Creek/CSAH 16 storm flooding. Betts asked the Board to authorize a ditching project at the intersection of CSAH 16 and CR 69 to help alleviate the problem. Because of the potential impact to private property owners, Commissioner Hall requested the neighbors be informed and solicited for input before moving forward.

Betts also recommended that work be continued to reconstruct the Otis Creek crossing at CSAH 16. However, he recommended that this crossing NOT be reconstructed prior to the reconstructing the Stonegate Road and TH 61 Crossings. A letter has been sent to MnDOT. A second letter will be drafted and sent to the Stonegate Homeowners Association.

Lastly, Betts noted that there are insufficient grant funds and Highway Department personnel available to do the ditching or construct this crossing and that State-Aid monies would need to expended which could put other projects in the Five Year Plan in potential jeopardy.

Sawtooth Mountain Bike Challenge
The County Board approved a special permit for the 2011 Sawtooth Challenge Mountain Bike Race scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, August 27.

One Percent Local Option Sales Tax Projects
The Board approved a request to enter into an agreement with DSGW for interior design of the circulation and reference desks, as well as the work flow for the Library Expansion. It is anticipated that this space will be built by local cabinet makers.

A Master Schedule of the One Percent Sales Projects has been created and reviewed by the County Board. This Master Schedule identifies financial placeholders or projected costs and % of completion for (5) projects: Cook County Community Center $11M, Library Addition $1.49M, Birch Grove Community Center $700K, Superior National Golf Course $1.8M, Broadband $4M. The County Board and ORB Management also discussed criteria for prioritizing the projects. Certainly any project needs to comply with the Legislation that was passed. The Board also discussed the importance of giving priority to the projects that were identified when the public voted on the tax.

The County Board discussed the pros and cons of (3) possible locations for the Community Center. They also explored the possibility of locating the facility adjacent to ISD166. There has not been a recent dialogue between the County and the School Board regarding this option, so the County Board will draft a letter to the School Board inviting them to explore this possibility further at the next Joint City/County/School/Tribe meeting already scheduled for August 25 at 4 pm in the City Council Chambers.

A work session to discuss the County Biomass Feasibility has been scheduled for September 20, 2011 at 1 pm.

County Board Meeting

2011-08-09T20:21:00.000-07:00

County Board Chair Jim Johnson and Commissioners Hakes, Hall, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for today's regularly scheduled Board Meeting. Also present were Braidy Powers, Tim Scannell and Janet Simonen.

Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to speak during the Public Comment period.

Maintenance Department
The Board authorized Maintenance Supervisor Brian Silence to enter into an agreement for $4800 with the Jamar Company to conduct an extensive investigation of the tie-in to the original building and gutter eave of that building. This investigation and subsequent repair will be done to prevent water intrusion.

The Board also authorized Silence to purchase 9 personal task lights at a cost of $335 each to be installed on the Commissioner's table. These lights are being installed so that overhead compact florescent lights may be turned off in the presence of people with sensitivity to such lighting. The new lights consume minimal energy.

Information Systems (IS)
Congratulations to Information Systems Director Danna MacKenzie for being selected as a 2011-2012 Policy Fellow at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs. MacKenzie was selected from a large number of robust applicants to develop core leadership competencies necessary to inspire, organize and work effectively to advance the public good. The County Board was pleased to authorize MacKenzie to use $1000 from the IS Department training budget for years 2011 and 2012 to pay ~1/3 of the program fees.

As noted in the Policy Fellows Program Overview, a vibrant community benefits everyone and MacKenzie's participation in this program will certainly benefit Cook County. "Citizens who take part in public affairs must turn from the private interests to take a look at something other than themselves." Alexis de Tocqueville.

Ehlers and Associates
The County Board passed a resolution calling for public hearings on a capital improvement plan and the intent to use capital improvement bonds. More simply stated, the County would like to refinance their debt for the Cook County Courthouse and Law Enforcement Center. By refinancing, the County is likely to save an estimated $122,000 in interest costs.

On another note, Bruce Kimmel of Ehlers and Associates presented an overall bond timing and master cashflow scenario for all one percent sales tax projects. In this scenario, the County will likely issue bonds for $8,500,000 this Fall. Interest rates are very attractive and anticipated to remain low.

PUBLIC HEARING to survey Sections 7-8-9-17-19, T58N, R5W in Schroeder Township
A pubic hearing was held on this matter. No objections from the public were raised and the process will move forward. A citizen petition tallied 67% in favor of this corner restoration survey.

Cook County Historical Society (CCHS)
Carrie McHugh, Cook County Historical Society Museum Director, gave a wonderful mid-year overview of the work the Cook County Historical Society has completed, is working on, or has plans for. Of particular note is the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Exhibit which included a two-room exhibit, digitization of photos and oral histories, as well as an on-line component. And, the CCHS is hopeful they will be successful in their request for a grant from the LLoyd K. Johnson foundation to fund conservation of the Grand Marais Lighthouse Lens to be received on long-term loan from the Coast Guard, perhaps as early as this Fall.

The CCHS requested the County Board continue their annual grant for their important work.

Vacating County Road 79
The Board authorized a resolution to begin the process to vacate County Road 79, formerly a section of Old Highway 61. Recent Mn/DOT Highway 61 road construction in Lutsen created a new access to property owners using CR 79 so it is no longer needed.

Permits and Licenses
The County Board approved a raffle on August 13 at the Midtrail Firehall as requested by the Mid Trail Home Owners Association. The Board also approved a temporary on-sale liquor license for a single day (9/22/11) as requested by the Schroeder Area Historical Society for the an event at the Cross River Heritage Center.

Superior National Golf Course
The County Board reviewed a proposal from Sirius Golf Advisors to conduct a business and marketing plan for Superior National Golf Course. Sirius also proposed a consulting contract to provide assistance in executing the business plan. The County Board agreed that it needs a Work Session with the EDA to determine a) direction and mission of SNGC, b) roles & responsibilities of the County, the EDA and SNGC Staff, and c) funding. The County Board also asked EDA Liaison Bruce Martinson to recommend that the EDA/SNGC Staff immediately implement the no-cost or low-cost suggestions already given by Sirius Golf Advisors to improve operations at SNGC this year. It is anticipated that the County/EDA Work Session will be held Thursday, August 18th at 7 pm in the Commissioner's Room.

Highway 61 Otis Creek Crossing
Highway Engineer Dave Betts drafted a letter to Mn/DOT requesting that Mn/DOT replace the TH61 box culvert over Otis Creek. This request is being made to handle any increase in flow that would result from increasing the size of the CSAH 16 culvert as desired. The existing drainage structure is undersized; excess runoff is impacting local residents and needs to be corrected. The Board authorized Betts' letter.

Broadband Resolution Passed at County Board Meeting

2011-07-26T19:01:00.000-07:00

Today was a very full and productive day at the Courthouse. The County Board met from 8:30 AM until approximately 4:30 PM today (less a lunch break). Following is a summary of the day.

County Chair Jim Johnson and Commissioners Hakes, Hall, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for today's regularly scheduled Board Meeting which included an evaluation presentation on Superior National Golf Course (SNGC) from Sirius Golf Advisors.

Open Forum
Richard Olson and Shawn Perich requested the County work with Hovland property owners to resolve flooding issues caused by the undersized culvert where Otis Creek crosses the Arrowhead Trail. Otis Creek has overtopped the Arrowhead culvert five times over the past six years causing damage to private property. County Engineer Dave Betts is aware of the problem and will prepare a plan to resolve this issue for presentation at the 8/16/11 County Board meeting.

Highway Department
County Engineer David Betts asked the Board to assign (2) Commissioners to the Facility Study Committee to assess the work on the Highway Department Master Site Plan being led by Oertel Architects. Commissioners Martinson and Sobanja will join the Committee of Maintenance Supervisor Russell Klegstad, Maintenance Department Head Brian Silence, Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers and Highway Department Accountant Anne Zellner.

Moose Habitat Collaborative Support Letter
Land Commissioner Mary Black requested the Board write a letter of support for the MN Moose Habitat Collaborative application for Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council funds to restore moose habitat in NE Minnesota. The Board voted unanimously to join the MN Deer Hunters Association, Nature Conservancy, USFS, MN DNR, 1854 Authority, Grand Portage and Fon du Lac Bands of Lake Superior Chippewa, Lake and St. Louis Counties by providing a letter of support.

Office of Planning and Zoning (OPZ)
As recommended by the Planning Commission, the Board unanimously approved a zone change from Lakeshore Residential to Resort Commercial/Residential on property adjacent to Gunflint Lake and owned by John Schloot, dba Cross River Properties.

The Board denied a request for a Conditional User Permit to allow placement of a single family residence on a property owned by Joseph Sanders within the General Commercial zone district. This request was denied for non-compliance with other zoning requirements 4-1 with Commissioner Sobanja dissenting.

The Board unanimously approved a request from Arrowhead Electric Cooperative for an Interim Use Permit to allow the temporary storage of fiber optic cable on property within the Lutsen Town Center Single Family Residential District.

Arrowhead Electric Cooperative Request for 1% Funds
Arrowhead Electric Cooperative (AEC) came before the County Board to request $4 million of 1% Local Option Sales Tax funding for their Broadband Project. AEC has been awarded a combination grant and loan of $16 million through the federal Rural Utility Service for purposes of installing broadband technology throughout Cook County by making high speed internet available to all customers served by Arrowhead Electric and the Grand Marais Public Utilities Commission. AEC is incurring at least $5.4 million in debt to undertake and complete the Broadband Project. AEC needs an additional $4 million to ensure that the system is adequately robust, redundant, and long lasting. The Board approved this request unanimously.

Capital Purchase Request
The Board authorized IS Director Danna MacKenzie to purchase (3) Dell computers as part of the IS Department's regularly planned rotation and maintenance plan as budgeted.

Community Center Project Update
Tom Wacholz of ORB Management informed the Board that sample collections (drilling) at the various Community Center site options will begin tomorrow, July 27. The Board voted unanimously to add samples to be collected from the potential school site option.

ISD166 Superintendent Beth Schwarz updated the County Board on the School Board's two-part motion indicating the School District's willingness to consider a proposal that would attach the Community Center to the School District. Advocates for attaching the Community Center to the School envision this to be at no-cost to ISD166 and should reduce annual operations and maintenance costs for the District.

The County Board discussed possible options to allow the City of Grand Marais to participate in the Cook County Community Center project. Ultimately the Board passed a motion to suspend further Community Center design activities and expenses until the matter of the City's participation is resolved. The contracts with ORB Management for Community Center Contract Management and Meyer Group for Community Center design will be suspended with the exception of the current site evaluation process. The County will invite the City Council to a joint County/City work session on 8/23/11 to discuss the matter further.

Auditor-Treasurer
Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers asked the Board to approve a Public Hearing for Miscellaneous Fees. The Hearing will be scheduled for 10 AM on August 23. Powers also asked the Board to approve an extension to the Tait Lake Firewise Grant, which was approved.

Evaluation of Superior National Golf Course (SNGC) in Lutsen
Sirius Golf Advisors President John Waite and Golf Course Architect Jeff Brauer presented their draft Evaluation of SNGC to the County Board and several members of the Public, including members of the EDA. The final report will be available in approximately 2 weeks; no significant changes are anticipated. An Executive Summary of the ~175 page document was also provided.

Overall response to the study and the presentation was very positive and well-received. The County Board, as well as others in attendance asked clarifying questions of Waite and Brauer. The report noted the original SNGC mission to spur economic development in the area and to bring more tourists into the area. So, at this point, the most important question to be asked is whether or not the original mission statement for Superior National Golf Course is still valid. Answering this question is critical to how the County Board and the EDA should move forward. Sirius Golf Advisors offered (3) different scenarios for consideration, each requiring a different amount of funding. The EDA and SNGC staff will explore possible funding sources in addition to their anticipated request for 1% Local Option Sales Tax funds.

Minnesota Public Radio's Broadband Coverage

2011-07-18T12:39:00.000-07:00

Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) has been tracking seven places around Minnesota --and calling them Ground Level's Broadband 7 -- as these (7) communities continue efforts to provide broadband services to their populations. Cook County is one of those (7).

Read more at:

http://minnesota.publicradio.org/collections/special/columns/ground-level/archive/2011/07/broadband-7-revisited.shtml

For more specific information about the Arrowhead Electric Cooperative broadband project go to:

http://www.aecimn.com/

Possible end to State Government shutdown

2011-07-14T12:57:00.000-07:00

In a sincere effort to "stop the pain" caused by the MN State Government shutdown, Governor Dayton has made a move to drop his pursuit of tax hikes and accept a previously made Republican Party offer with some concessions.

Read more at: http://www.startribune.com/local/125567728.html

County Board Meeting

2011-07-13T05:16:00.000-07:00

County Board Chair Jim Johnson and Commissioners Hakes, Hall, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for today's regular County Board Meeting. Also present were Janet Simonen, Braidy Powers and Tim Scannell.

Public Comment
Hal Greenwood, Matt Hueltner, Gary Gamble, Evelyn Larson and Irene Thompson came before the County Board to present survey information from their "Stop the Madness" Campaign in opposition to the proposed Cook County Community Center. Members of the County Board shared the group's concern about Operation and Maintenance Costs and re-stated their determination to build a facility that is financially sustainable without any increase to taxes. Gamble said that their group wasn't always aware of the on-going decision making process; Hakes extended an invitation to attend any of the Steering Committee Meetings which are always open to the public.

PUBLIC HEARING
A Public Hearing was held to consider adopting proposed amendments to the Cook County Fiber Optic Network Ordinance. The purpose of the Broadband Commission is "to advise and educate on the development, adoption , and use of broadband and directly related technologies". The County Board approved this amendment which becomes effective upon publication.

Maintenance Department
Maintenance Director Brian Silence presented a quote to purchase a new County car for $21,197. The Board passed a motion 4-1 approving this purchase with Commissioner Hakes opposed. Hakes said she couldn't support the purchase without a clear understanding of the current fleet, associated costs, and alternatives to purchasing (lease, employee-owned cars, scheduling).

Highway Department
At County Engineer David Betts' recommendation, the Board approved the easement agreement with the Forest Service for the Junco Creek project and approved entering into an agreement with Midwest Trenchless Technologies to clean and televise the CSAH 12 storm sewer . Betts and Maintenance Supervisor Russell Klegstad gave an overview of the on-going construction and maintenance projects noting that calcium chloride applications began 7/11/11 and should be complete this week.

Office of Planning and Zoning
Planning and Zoning Director Tim Nelson reminded the Board that the Poplar River Alternative Urban Area-wide Review (AUAR) which was initially adopted in June 2006 is up for renewal if it is to continue as an active environmental review document. Nelson recommended the Board re-adopt the original AUAR document and mitigation plan for another five years as well as adopt by reference two additional studies that had been conducted in the Poplar River area and provide more recent information for review in conjunction with the mitigation plan. After discussion, the Board approved the motion unanimously.

Nelson also reported the North Shore Management Board (NSMB) is considering whether or not to initiate another amendment process to the existing North Shore Management Plan. The Board recommends no change to the Plan at this time.

Cook County Local Energy Project (CCLEP)
CCLEP is in need of a Staff person to increase their ability to carry out their mission. George Wilkes, CCLEP Chair, requested the County Board provide $1000 in matching funds toward a 1/2 time Coordinator position to manage CCLEP activities.  CCLEP intends to apply to the Lloyd K. Johnson Foundation for the balance of $19,000. Wilkes' request was approved by the Board.

AT&T Tower Leases
Mark Hemstereet of Insight (representing AT&T), Sheriff Mark Falk, and Duane Ege provided an update of the (2) new towers being considered for construction at Gunflint Magnetic and Gunflint Mid-Trail. The logistics of building these towers is complex, but the general gist of it is that AT&T would pay for the construction of these towers. In return for building the towers, any rents to be paid by AT&T would be abated for 25 years. The estimated cost to build each tower is $200,000. The County will have full ownership of these towers and retain the right to all rental income from both the current towers and the new towers.

Schroeder Township Survey
Citizen petition votes have been tallied at 67% in favor of the corner restoration survey in Sections 7-8-9-17-19 T58N R5W.  A letter is forthcoming to all landowners in those sections and a Public Hearing has been scheduled for August 9 at 10 AM at the Cook County Courthouse. For questions about this process or the survey, contact Cook County Surveyor Wayne Hensche at 387-1172 or County Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers at 387-3646.

Budget Calendar and State Shutdown
Department Heads are working on their 2012 Budgets for submission to Braidy Powers by July 29.

The negative impact of the State Shutdown grows as the Shutdown continues.  Department Heads and the County Board are working to continue the provision of County Services in the least disruptive manner within the budget constraints and unknowns.

One Percent Project
Commissioner Sobanja reported that construction of the Library Addition project is going well.

The County Board discussed a letter received from the Cook County Community Center Board of Trustees regarding the benefits of attaching the proposed Community Center to ISD166.  Beth Schwarz was present for this discussion and took the action to meet with the School Board to determine their interest and willingness to explore this option further. The next Steering Committee Meeting is slated for July 27.

NE MN Area Transportation Partnership (NMATP)
Lutsen Township Supervisor, Diane Parker, applied for the position of Cook County Rep to the NMATP.   The Board approved this unanimously.

Information about the State Government Shutdown

2011-07-02T15:21:00.000-07:00

Check the Cook County website for information regarding the MN State Government shutdown.

More on the Possible State Government Shutdown...

2011-06-28T19:31:00.000-07:00

Uncertainty about the potential State Government Shutdown still looms. The County Board and County Staff are hopeful an agreement between the legislature and the governor on the FY 12-13 budget will be achieved.

We did learn today that MN Supreme Court Chief Justice, Lorie S. Gildea, in an email to judges and court employees said a petition filed in Ramsey District Court seeking continued funding for the courts (in the event their appropriation for FY12-13 is NOT approved by July 1) was granted. This court order enables the operation of the court system in Cook County and throughout MN.

County Board Meeting and Preliminary Budget Worksession

2011-06-28T19:06:00.000-07:00

County Board Vice-Chair Jan Hall ran today's County Board Meeting in Chair Jim Johnson's absence. Commissioners Hakes, Martinson and Sobanja were all present.

Open Forum
No member of the Public opted to speak at today's Open Forum.

County Highway Department
On June 17, 2011 the Cook County Highway Department received five proposals in response to their Request for Proposals (RFP) for a Highway Department Facility Study and Master Site Plan. County Engineer David Betts informed the County Board that the review committee for this project met, scored all (5) proposals, and recommends Oertel Architects/Albertson Engineering for the work. The County Board authorized Betts and the County Attorney to negotiate a contract for this work not-to-exceed $25,300.

Betts, along with support from Anne Zellner and Russell Klegstad, presented the "2010 Annual Report of the Cook County Highway Department". Highlights of the report included personnel changes and finances. It also included summaries of 2010 construction & maintenance programs, gravel crushing, snowplowing, calcium chloride application, pavement and aggregate road surface improvements, and culvert projects.

Betts also reported the Highway Department will be negatively affected by a Government Shutdown, should that occur. The Highway Department has (3) projects started or scheduled to start in July. These projects will require QA Inspections and Independent Assurance tests which are typically done by MN DOT. Betts is working to find acceptable alternatives for this testing to avoid delays in the projects for CSAH 8, Junco Creek Crossing and striping.

Fiber Optic Network Commission
Since the FON Commission was created in 2009, efforts to build broadband infrastructure in Cook County have moved from the County to North East Service Cooperative and Arrowhead Electric Cooperative. Because of this, the activities of the Commission have shifted from preparing to run a telecom business to monitoring, advising, educating, and assisting to ensure broadband infrastructure is built, that it meets the needs of the County and its citizens, and that we have the skills and knowledge to leverage broadband-based technologies once they arrive. Howard Hedstrom, Chair of the Fiber Optic Network (FON) Commission, with support from IS Director Danna MacKenzie requested the County Board review and accept the FON Commission recommended language to reflect these changes in the Ordinance. The Board approved this change and a public hearing is scheduled for July 12 at 8:35 am to officially adopt the recommended amendments.

Cook County Visitor's Bureau (CCEVB)
Sally Nankivell, Executive Director of the CCEVB, presented the CCEVB Income and Expenses for FY 2010-11. She also asked the County Board to approve the CCEVB Budget for FY 2011-2012. The County Board acknowledged the accomplishments of the CCEVB and approved the Budget unanimously.

Cook County Board of Equalization
The County Board recessed the Board of Commissioner meeting and reconvened the 2011 County Board of Equalization meeting in which they accepted the recommendation of County Assessor Mary Black for adjustments in the Estimated Market Values for (2) west end properties. Afterward, the County Board of Equalization was adjourned and the County Board of Commissioner's meeting was reconvened.

1% Sales Tax Projects--Community Center
Commissioner Hakes reported on the last meeting of the Community Center Steering Committee to note that they continued their in depth review of site options. Hakes said that David Demmer of the Office and Planning & Zoning attended that meeting to inform the Committee about the process for delineating wetlands in the NW Corner for possible building of a softball field or the Community Center Building.

WORKSESSION re: Cook County Finances/Budgets/Priorities
The County Board, along with County Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers, County Attorney Tim Scannell, Sheriff Mark Falk, and several Department Heads and Supervisors (Simonen, Futterer, Nelson, Betts, Klegstad, Booth) discussed the 2011 Budget Process. Clearly, the Department Heads are looking for feedback and guidelines from the County Board in setting their budgets for the coming year. Guidance from the County Board is especially important with a pending State Government shutdown as well as the on-going constraints on the County Budget including potential reductions in revenue, levy limits, increased costs, increasing demand for services, etc. It was agreed that the County Board would gather input from the various departments and meet again to discuss this in a Special Meeting of the County Board at 10 AM on Friday July 8.

Possible State Government Shutdown Information

2011-06-27T14:47:00.000-07:00

This just in from the Association of MN Counties Executive Director Jeff Spartz...

Executive Director’s Notes
By Jeff Spartz, AMC Executive Director

Negotiations continue between the governor and legislative leadership. Rumor has it, that they’re now talking about some additional revenues to close the gap between the two parties. The rumor mongers are not clear about which revenue devices would be tapped to make a budget deal fall into place.

Another of the rumors circulating around the Capitol is that there is an agreement to legislate a “lights-on-bill” as the global deal develops. My sense of this is that the governor will not agree to a temporary “lights-on-bill” until he is certain that a budget is firmly agreed to in principle with only details to be worked out.

Ramsey County Judge Gearin is expected to rule momentarily (probably Tuesday) on the proposal to keep critical functions of state government operating. I would expect her ruling no later than tomorrow so that there’s at least a modest window of time for an appeal to the Supreme Court (and there will be at least one appeal).

County Board Meeting

2011-06-22T17:56:00.000-07:00

County Board Chair Jim Johnson and Commissioners Hakes, Hall, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for yesterday's regularly scheduled County Board meeting. Also present were Braidy Powers, Janet Simonen and Tim Scannell (in part).

Open Forum
No member of the Public opted to address the County Board at the open forum.

County Highway Department
The County Highway Department received 2 bids for furnishing and blending 2500 cubic yards of sand for the winter stockpile. The project was awarded to low bidder Edwin E. Thoreson, Inc.

Office of Planning and Zoning (OPZ)
The County Board voted to approve a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) allowing the long-term use of recreational vehicles for habitation at Trail Center. The CUP was recommended for approval by the Planning Commission on a 5-2 vote. All septic systems on the property were inspected in June 2010 and found to be in compliance with MN Rule 7080.

Community Center Site Options Analysis
ORB Management President Tom Wacholz presented the County Board with a proposal for Additional Services for Site Exploration. This proposal was made at the request of the County Board after determining more information is needed about the (3) site options for the proposed Community Center. The proposal is broken into (3) work areas: A) Design and Engineering $58,777.50, B) Subsurface Investigation $10,000, and C) Project Management $19,688.00. The Board authorized this work up to $88,465.50. The (3) locations identified for further consideration include Option 1 which is between the existing Community Center and the School and requires moving the tennis courts and skate park. Option 2 is also between the existing Community Center and the School but the building is reconfigured and does not require moving the tennis courts or skate park. And Option 5 is north of the existing Pappy Wright Field in the NW corner of County owned property. Leadtime for providing this work is estimated to be 4 weeks for the soil borings and geotechnical analysis.

IT Department
IT Director Danna MacKenzie provided the County Board with an update on Regional Broadband Projects including the Lake County, North East Service Cooperative (NESC) and Arrowhead Electric Cooperative projects. MacKenzie reported that Arrowhead Electric has ordered fiber and plans to break ground by the end of July 2011. This is great news. Arrowhead Electric plans to build the west end communities of Schroeder, Tofte and Lutsen first. Those interested in pre-registering may do so at http://aecimn.com.

MacKenzie also reported on the Minnesota Intelligent Rural Communities (MIRC) projects. Two of the MIRC projects include ISD166 streaming of the 2011 Graduation Ceremony and the Historical Society's project to put their records collection on-line.

Veterans Services Officer
Personnel Director Janet Simonen reported that Veterans Services Officer Clarence Everson will continue providing Veterans Services even if the State Government does shut down.

Minnesota Housing Partnership Grant
The County Board voted to support Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency in its request to pursue a $10,000 grant to conduct a community wide planning effort designed to better understand Cook County lack of affordable housing and homelessness problems.

Cook County Human Services Board Meeting

2011-06-22T04:57:00.000-07:00

Cook County Human Services Board

Present for the Cook County Human Services Board were Diane Fitzgerald, Jan Hall, Bruce Martinson, Fritz Sobanja, Jim Johnson and Sue Hakes. Carla LaPointe was absent due to illness. Also present were Sue Futterer, Jan Parish, Anna Jorgenson, Grace Bushard and Janet Simonen.

After approval of the agenda and May 17 Meeting Minutes, Committee Reports were given on Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency (AEOA) by Sue Hakes and Health Care Planning Committee by Jim Johnson. Of particular interest to Cook County is a $10,000 grant submission by AEOA specifically for further exploration of the need for affordable housing in Cook County.

Adult Mental Health Needs Assessment Results and AMHI Update
Grace Bushard gave the Human Services Board an overview of a Mental Health Services Assessment in Region 3 dated December 2010. Strengths and Weakness in services were specifically identified, as well as ideas for improvements. Bushard also discussed a "Crisis Stabilization Virtual Response Model" specifically for supporting persons in a mental health crisis. This model is designed to support persons that don't require emergency mental health hospitalization, but offers a plan to respond locally with mental health responders using Bridge House (Duluth) for coordination. Phase B of this plan would include the use of Certified Peer Specialists.

Bushard's report is a continuation of the Human Services Department to focus on one area of the service they provide and present it to the Human Services Board. These overviews are valuable in understanding the challenges and the work of the Public Health and Human Services Department as they work to meet local needs.

June 2011 Financial Report and AMHI Funds
Jan Parish reported on the overall budget noting that the PHHS Department will be impacted by the potential State Government shutdown. Parish said the Department has a plan in place, but there are many unknowns at this point.
Parish also complemented Bushard's overview of the Adult Mental Health Initiative by giving an overview of the funding and fiscal organization of the program. Cook County does employ a AMH Case Manager that is 100% reimbursed by earnings from Mental Health Targeted Case Management. Cook County is also part of the Region III AMHI in which Lake County is the fiscal agent. Under this initiative, Cook Conty is able to offer multiple client services and programs including crisis intervention and stabilization, emergency response, housing subsidy, suicide prevention, staff trainings, etc.

Director's Report
Director Sue Futterer reported on the potential State Government Shutdown. Futterer shared copies of the letters that were sent to clients and providers that will likely be affected and the State's Recommended Priority One and Priority Two Critical Services. Our County PHHS Department is working hard to minimize any negative impact to clients and providers. If you have questions about services, feel free to contact Cook County Human Services Department at 387-3620.

Futterer and Parish gave an update on Edocs and Caseworks (two potential vendors for providing software services for the on-going Redesign efforts within MN Counties), the Sawtooth Mountain Clinic Master Contract, and NACo Prescription Drug Discount Card Usage.

County Board Meeting

2011-06-14T19:24:00.000-07:00

All County Board members--Jim Johnson, Fritz Sobanja, Bruce Martinson, Jan Hall and Sue Hakes--were present for today's Board Meeting. Also in attendance were County Auditor Braidy Powers and Human Resources Director Janet Simonen.

Public Comment Period
No members of the public opted to address the County Board at today's meeting.

County Car Purchase
Maintenance Director Brian Silence reported that the county car used by the Emergency Management Department has unsafe front tires, needs alignment, has broken left spring, bad left lower ball joint, and old fuel filter. This car has 125,000 miles on it. The County Board authorized Silence to look into replacement costs of this vehicle. Hakes also asked Silence for a summary on the fleet and ideas for reducing fleet costs. This request was supported by the Board and study should include vehicle lease vs. purchase costs, sharing cars, mileage reimbursement for employees, affordable make/models, etc. Silence agreed and will provide the requested information at a future Board meeting.

Poplar River AUAR Update
Planning and Zoning (OPZ) Director Tim Nelson reported that the AUAR (Alternative Urban Areawide Review) for Poplar River is nearing the end of its (5) year cycle. Nelson is soliciting comments for review and consideration and will make a recommendation to the Board for updating or letting it expire.

Nelson also requested Board approval to draft a temporary SSTS (Subsurface Sewage Treatment System) Ordinance to fill the gap between now and the 2014 deadline set by the Legislature to have an SSTS Ordinance in place. The OPZ will also explore offering low interest loans to those qualified and the ability to pay such loans with property taxes over a longer period of time to make payments more affordable.

Ehlers & Associates
Carolyn Drude and Bruce Kimmel of Ehlers & Associates presented a preliminary bond issuance plan as an example of how the County might structure the debt for the 1% Sales Tax projects. This preliminary plan is based on the current estimates for 1% Sales Tax project costs and construction timelines. Bonding for the 1% Sales Tax projects will change as project costs and timelines are confirmed. Ehler's example plan includes issuing a combination of both taxable and tax-exempt GO Sales Tax Revenue Bonds, as well as loaning ourselves money from the County general funds. Coordinating debt services on these issues will help ensure that total annual principal and interest payments are relatively steady to minimize the overall interest expense.

Community Center (existing)
The County Board approved the Community Center Board recommendation to appoint Joanne Smith to replace Bob Spry who has resigned from the Community Center Board of Trustees.

Booth informed the Board that the Cook County Curling Club has requested indoor ice from early October 2011 through April 1, 2012 and will pay $2200/month for ice use. The Curling Club is working to build their club by increasing the number of Bonspiels held and by attracting Canadian curlers. To do so, the Club needs to start their curling season in October.

The needs of the Curling Club for ice time conflicts with both indoor skating and hockey. As a potential solution, the Community Center Board of Trustees asked the County Board to consider purchasing synthetic ice that could be used for both figure skating and hockey. The County Board agreed on a motion to consider paying $60,000 for synthetic ice subject to volunteer committments for maintenance, finding a suitable location (possibly the tennis courts), and storage for the ice.

Booth also asked the County Board to approve a motion to move forward with mitigation of the wetlands between County and School property. This area was delineated in 2006, so the County Board approved a wetland review for an estimated cost of $300.

1% Sales Tax Project Updates
Tom Wacholz of ORB Management gave updates on the 1% projects currently underway: Community Center, Superior National Golf Course, Library Expansion and Birch Grove Community Center

Community Center--Wacholz and Hakes reported that the Community Center Steering Committee met last Friday (June 10) to discuss, among other things, (6) location options for the facility. Hakes informed the County Board that the Steering Committee passed a motion to ask the Board to direct ORB Management to prepare a proposal for estimated sites cost for (3) sites including Options 1, 5, and 6. Hakes requested that the Board also consider Option 2, stating she felt it was too early to eliminate this option. The Board discussed the options, and ultimately asked ORB to prepare the proposal for sites 1, 2, and 5, eliminating the option to attach the proposed facility to ISD166.

Superior National Golf Course--Sirius Golf Advisors prepared and presented a summary of their site visit to Superior National Golf Course last week. After leaving Minnesota, Sirius learned that George Nelson is willing to donate enough land to the County to build an additional 9 holes of golf. The County Board unanimously turned down the Sirius recommendation to perform a second site visit to review this additional land for the purpose of expanding the golf course.

Library Expansion Project--Work on the Library Expansion project continues. The Library will be operating temporarily out of ISD166 and has agreed to pay $2000/month in rent up to $15,000.

Birch Grove Community Center Project--Egle Vanagaite of the Center of Changing Landscapes presented the results from their site analysis, the grading and planting plans and an illustrative master plan for the Birch Grove project. This project has a budget of $700K and includes a tennis court, hockey rink and warming hut, playground, trails and parking.

Auditor-Treasurer Office
The County Board approved Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers' recommendation to hire Angela Cook in his Department. The Board also approved a liquor license for Clearwater Lodge.

2010 ATV Report
As required by Cook County Ordinance #54, the County Board reviewed Sheriff Falk's Report on ATV use in Cook County which included data from Law Enforcement and feedback from the DNR, USFS and Highway Patrol. The Cook County Sheriff's Office generated just 9 calls for service regarding ATV use in Cook County, down from 15 calls in 2009. All of the calls were minor in nature and no citations were issued for violations occurring on ATVs. Several members of the Public (John Bottger, Vil Neilands, Rhonda Silence, Chuck Silence) spoke about how well the Ordinance is working from their individual perspectives.

ATV Club Secretary Rhonda Silence invited the County Board and those in attendance at the Board meeting to the Cook County ATV Club season Kick-Off Party on June 19 at the Cook County Ridge Riders Devil Track groomer building. All are welcome. For more information call 387-9844 or ATV@rideupnorth.com.

Housing
Good news! Nancy Grabko of the Lake and Cook County Joint Housing Initiative and EDA Chair Mike Litfin were pleased to report that Cook and Lake counties were awarded $370,000 from the 2011 Small Cities Development Program to be used for owner occupied housing rehab, rental and/or commercial rehab, or public facility improvements. Leveraging these funds with $106,000 in resources from Grand Marais, Lake County and AEOA results in a $476,000 project.

Grabko is also working to secure Sec 8 Rental Assistance Certificates for both Cook and Lake counties. She will be meeting with the Duluth Housing Redevelopment Authority (HRA) to make this much needed request. Commissioner Sobanja will join this effort on June 23 in Duluth.

Potential Government Shutdown
The Board discussed local areas of concern should the State Government shut down for lack of a budget deal by July 1.

May 2011

2011-06-12T10:26:00.000-07:00

Wow! The month of May 2011 was FULL and absolutely flew by.

The County Board held its regularly scheduled meetings on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Tuesday of the month, as did the Human Services Board meet at its usual time on the 2nd Tuesday of the month. I also participated in several meetings for the various committees I serve on including the Public Health and Human Services Advisory Board, Arrowhead Health Alliance, Fiber Optic Network, NE MN Regional Radio Board. If any of you has questions about these Committees or the work, please ask, I'm happy to share or answer questions.

Community Center Project
In addition to the more typical work of the County Board, there was a huge amount of activity on the Community Center project. Public Meetings were held on May 10 and May 11 in Grand Marais and Tofte respectively. A 3rd Meeting---also open to the Public for input and questions--was held on May 19 at the Senior Center downtown. All (3) meetings were well attended and lasted several hours.   The Community Center Steering Committee met for full day meetings on May 4 and May 20; subcommittee meetings met at various times through the month as well. The Public and the Press are welcome to attend and listen at all of these meetings.

A lot of good feedback about the Community Center has been received at the Public Meetings and recent County Board Meetings. Individual Commissioners and Steering Committee Members are also receiving feedback about the project. It is fair to say that there is both support and opposition to the Community Center Project.  And, it is important to note that there is widespread concern about the affordability and sustainability for the project; a concern that each of us on the County Board shares.

On May 24, the County Board held a Worksession specifically about the Community Center.  Major objectives of this Worksession were to a) Provide detailed information about the design and financials to the County Board, b) Discuss and consider feedback from the Public, c) Give the Steering Committee direction. ORB Management and Meyer Group Architects were present at this 3 hour meeting; in the audience were several members of the Steering Committee and the Public. The meeting was productive and ultlimately the County Board reached consensus to move forward with the Community Center project subject to capping the construction costs at $10M plus FFE (furniture, fixtures, equipment), no increase in existing costs to the taxpayer for O&M (operations and maintenance), City participation in bringing their expertise and financial support of $156,000 annually, and identifying the most cost-effective building location that is least disruptive to existing amenities. The County Board identified the pool as an important (if not the MOST important) feature of the facility. The County Board also discussed the importance of incorporating energy efficienies into the building, as well as planning for future uses of alternative energies.

The Community Center Steering Committee met June 10 to discuss, among other things, the location of the facility. Where to put the building is the most critical decision to be made at this point. We discussed (6) locations in a fair amount of detail; there are pros and cons to each option, of course, and no final recommendation for the County Board has been made. Instead, it was determined that more data is needed and a request to gather more data will be moving forward for County Board consideration.

The Steering Committee Financial Subgroup has also been working diligently to reduce O&M costs for the project. Not surprisingly, staffing is one of the most significant costs for the proposed new facility. As a result, County Staff and the Steering Committee are exploring the possibility of contracating with a Qualified Manager or 501(c)(3) to operate the facility and manage the programming.

As you can see, this project continues to evolve. As Chair of the Steering Committee, I will do my best to keep the Public updated on the project. The current floorplan, design and financials on the Cook County website are out-of-date and will likely be identified as such, or removed from the website.  We're working to update the Cook County website this coming week with some information about the location options and Meeting Minutes. I also intend to begin a Q&A on the Cook County Conversations for folks to ask questions and get current information about the project.

All for now. Stay tuned!

Contractor Bonding 101 Class

2011-04-28T10:34:00.000-07:00

This just in from Cook County Higher Ed---

Contractors in Cook County will soon have the opportunity to bid on the upcoming Library renovation project and later the new Community Center. Within those contracts are certain contractor bond requirements. To give contractors a better understanding of the bonding process and options, Cook County Higher Education is pleased to offer "Contractor Bonding 101" at the Cook County Courthouse on May 11.

Chris James, CIC, and Vice President of Liscomb Hood Mason Company in Duluth will present information on contract surety bonds. More specifically, Mr. James will cover performance and payment bonds, the bonding process and requirements, and various bond options. Chris James, CIC has over 20 years experience in contractor bonding. He specializes in construction, contract surety, small business and professional liability. Liscomb Hood Mason Company is an independent Insurance Company located in Duluth and has been in business for 84 years.

The information session is being held Wednesday, May 11 at 1:30 pm in the Cook County Courthouse Commissioner’s room. This session is being offered prior to the pre-bid meeting scheduled for 3:00pm May 11 at the Library. There is no charge for this information session and all contractors interested in learning more about the bonding process are welcome to attend.

For more information please contact Cook County Higher Education by email highered@boreal.org or call 387-3411. Thank you!

County Board Meeting with Community Center Discussion

2011-04-26T20:12:00.000-07:00

Vice Chair Jan Hall chaired today's County Board meeting in Board Chair Jim Johnson's absence.

Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to address the County Board at today's meeting.

USFS Secure Rural School Program
The Board approved a request to solicit public comment for Cook County's Proposed Use of Funds from the US Forest Service Title III: USFS Secure Rural School Program. Approximately $104,000 in Federal Title II funding is available, but may only be used to a) carry out specific activities under the Firewise Communities Program, b) reimburse the County for Search and Rescue and other emergency services performed on Federal lands, and c) develop Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPP).

Personnel Issues
The Board approved recommendations made from the Personnel Committee to rate the new Assistant County Engineer/Project Manager position, to upgrade the Chief Deputy County Recorder and Registrar of Titles position, to keep the Assistant County Assessor at its current level, and to upgrade the Assessor's Technical Clerk/Appraiser position.

Per MN Statute, the County Board voted to reappoint David Betts as Cook County Engineer for a term of four years.

The Board approved a request to advertise for the open position of Deputy Auditor-Treasurer/Bookkeeper resulting from notice of resignation.

Highway Department
The Board authorized several requests from County Engineer David Betts:
a. Approval of USFS Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) grant to improve aquatic species passages at county roadway crossings on CSAH 6 and CR 75.
b. Authorization to advertise and receive bids for calcium chlroide, gravel crushing, and special service district summer maintenance.
c. Approval of contract for geotechnical services for CR 70 at Flute Reed River, CR 60 at Durfee Creek, CR 75 at Little Devil Track, CSAH 6 at Little Devil Track.
d. Approval of New Roads Cost Accounting Software.
e. Authorization to purchase (2) Kenwood radios.
f. Approval of Special Events permit for the Ham Run Half-Marathon on May 1, 2011 and lastly,
g. Approval to develop a proposal for professional services to prepare a Facility Master Plan for the Highway Department with ORB Management and potentially others.

Auditor-Treasurer
The Board approved the 2011 First Quarter budget report. Overall expenditures after adjustments were at 24.8%. The Board also reviewed and agreed to the terms of the 2010 Audit as presented by the Office of the State Auditor to Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers. The Board also moved to reimburse the North Shore Hospital from the original local sales tax fund for the purchase of a tub system for the Care Center in the amount of $17,466.

Sag Lake Parking Lot Maintenance
The Board approved a Contract for Services with Voyageur Canoe Outfitters to maintain the Sag Lake Parking Lots I and II for $230/week.

Cook County Higher Ed Course on Contractor Bonding
The County Board authorized payment of $250 to cover the cost of a Contractor Bonding course being offered on Wednesday, May 11, from 1:30 to 2:30 pm. The cost for attending this course is FREE. The pre-bid meeting for the One Percent Library Expansion project will be held at 3:00 pm this same day.

Community Center Update
Tom Wacholz, ORB Management, and Tim Meyer, Meyer Group Architects presented an update on the One Percent Community Center project. In their presentation, they overviewed the planning and design work to date, schedule, site layout, floor plans, program spaces, and financial analysis of the project.

Presented to the Board, was the Schematic Design recommendation from the Community Center Steering Committee (CCSC). This recommendation for site layout, floor plan, and program space was based most heavily on community input gathered from stakeholder surveys, stakeholder representation on the Steering Committee, public input given directly to the Steering Committee. In other words, the Steering Committee has been listening and has been working to give the community what we believe is wanted in a Community Center.

Most importantly, the Steering Committee has been working on the financial feasibility of the proposed Community Center. This study includes projections for: Cost to Build, Operations & Maintenance Costs, Revenues. As part of today's meeting, an estimate of the financial picture was presented. This summary shows a Cost to Build of approximately $11 million which is within the $8-12 million budget, although still higher than is desired. However, the Operations & Maintenance Costs are still too high and the Steering Committee recognizes this.

The Steering Committee has a full day meeting tomorrow, April 27, to continue refinement of the design. Alongside the design work, the Steering Committee and the Financial Subcommittee will work to find ways to improve the bottom line. Areas of focus to improve revenues and lower the O&M will include close examination of staffing needs, possible inclusion of the Senior Center, increasing revenues, incorporation of energy efficiencies into the building, and exploration of other funding sources.

The County Board voted 3-1 (Martinson voted nay) to move the project from the Schematic Design Phase to Design Development and also to hold (2) Public Meetings to show the Public the Schematic Design and Financials for the project. Overall, the County Board was favorable of the site plan, floor plan, and programming. Concern was expressed over the O&M costs, and the lack of participation from the City of Grand Marais. These concerns are valid, recognized and will continue to be worked hard.

The County Board unanimously confirmed that the Steering Committee is heading in the right direction with respect to the facility itself, and the need to cut the O&M.

Public meetings will be scheduled for:

In Grand Marais
7 pm, TUESDAY, May 10 in Commissioner's Room

On West End
7 pm, WEDNESDAY, May 11 at Birch Grove Community Center

All members of the Public are encouraged to attend these meetings to learn more about the project and give us feedback. We want to hear from you.

Bonding Process for 1% Sales Tax Projects
Ehlers & Associates was present to give the Board a general overview of the bonding process for 1% projects. Ehlers & Associates is in the process of gathering information about this type of General Obligation Bond to ensure the County has all the information necessary to make sound financial decisions when bonding for these projects.

Human Services and County Board Meetings

2011-04-22T18:28:00.000-07:00

Generally, I try to post blog entries on the same day as the Board Meetings. This week, however, I was unable to do that due to a heavy schedule. Both the Human Services and County Board meetings I'm sharing in this entry occurred last Tuesday, April 19, 2011.

Human Services Board Meeting on April 19, 2011
Jim Johnson is out of the County; Diane Fitzgerald was ill. All other Human Services Board members were present. I called the meeting to order and the agenda and last month's meeting minutes were approved.

Committee Reports
Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency--I reported that the results of the study recently conducted by AEOA on homeless persons in Cook County was reviewed by approximately 12 Cook County residents that actually participated in the study. This meeting was led by AEOA Staff who reported that Cook County is diverse and not what it appears to be upon first blush. Possible solutions to the problem were discussed by the group.
Arrowhead Regional Corrections--Commissioner Jan Hall reported that ARC is in the process of hiring a new director.
Community Health Board--Commissioner Hall reported that the CHB has put several purchases, including bike racks and speed limit signs, on hold until funding decisions are made.

Child and Family Service Reviews
Social Services Supervisor, Grace Bushard, gave a very informative presentation on the Minnesota Child and Family Safety Review (CFSR) Program. Bushard explained that CFSR is a collaborative effort between state and federal agencies that focuses on key child welfare practices and systems. This Child Protection Program focuses on results instead of penalty in (3) key areas of effort: Safety (of children), Permanency (in living situations) and Well-Being (meeting all the needs of children).

Bushard also noted that in both Minnesota and Cook County there is a strong effort to re-unite children with their families or primary caregivers, but only after a safety plan is in place. Cook County will participate in a review to examine social work practice and principles that contribute to improved outcomes for children and families in 2012; our last review was in 2006.

It was clear that Bushard is passionate about this important work.

Financial Report
Income Maintenance and Fiscal Superior, Jan Parish, complemented Bushard's presentation nicely by giving the Board a financial summary of "Out of Home Placements" in Cook County's Public Health & Human Services. In 2010, Cook County handled 14 cases for a total cost of $285,730.

Director's Report
Director Sue Futterer reported on the Region 3 Redesign Income Maintenance Project noting that a market survey will be conducted to explore other vendors for document management systems. Futterer also reported on the PHHS role in the Emergency Management Conference Mock Airplane Crash to be held April 29-30, updates to the legislative process as it affects Public Health and Human Services, and staffing needs resulting from medical leaves.

Items for Board Action
The Board approved a grant contract agreement between the Department of Health Services and Cook County for the purchase of technology upgrades. This grant funding will be used to purchase a laptop to complete MN Choices Program Assessments.

County Board Meeting on April 19, 2011
VIce Chair Jan Hall chaired the meeting in Chair Jim Johnson's planned absence.

Public Comment
Kevin Norby of Herfort/Norby Golf Course Architects addressed the County Board by giving an overview of his firm's qualifications, as well as that of the proposal lead Golf Convergence. Nordby asked the Board to interview Golf Convergence and postpone making a selection for a Superior National Golf Course consultant.

County Highway Department--David Betts, County Engineer
County Board approved a request to replace a pressure washer that was broken after freezing when a garage door malfunctioned last month. Unit cost is $5113.38 with all but $1000.00 covered by insurance.

County Board authorized County Engineer David Betts to hire up to 5 temporary employees this summer. (4) temporary positions are already included in the 2011 approved budget. The 5th temporary employee is needed to offset the unexpected leave of a permanent Maintenance Worker I employee. Estimated wages for these workers is $67,300 and will be paid for from the County State Aid construction fund, County State Aid maintenance funds, GLRI Invasive Species Grant and the Highway Department's maintenance budget.

County Sheriff Mark Falk
County Board approved the Cooperative Law Enforcement Agreement and Operating and Financial Plan between the US Forest Services and the Cook County Sheriff's Office to provide a cooperative effort for law enforcement services on National Forest Services lands within Cook County. Funding provided to this agreement is $11,500, a reduction from the $23,000 received in previous years. Forest Service lands are under Cook County jurisdiction.

Search & Rescue Building
Emergency Management Director Jim Wiinanen requested authorization to purchase the materials needed to make improvements to the Search and Rescue Hall. Commissioner Hall toured the facility and agrees with the needed improvements. The County Board directed Wiinanen and Brian Silence to seek bids for the work.

Maintenance Department
Maintenance Director, Brian Silence, requested authorization to hire a temporary employee in the Maintenance Department for 12 weeks this summer. The County Board approved the request.

11:00 AM PUBLIC HEARING to assess the costs of the Judge Magney Survey
No members of the Public spoke at this hearing although a letter was received from Tom and Mary Hong Loe. County Surveyor Wayne Hensche presented the costs per parcel. After taking into consideration feedback from several property owners prior to today's Public Hearing, as well as the letter from Loe's, the County Board approved the costs of the Judge Magney Survey with payment terms of up to 10 years at 1% interest.

One Percent Projects
Rob Barse of ORB Management was present to give updates and move business forward for Superior National Golf Course and Birch Grove Community Center projects.

The County Board voted 3-1 to hire Sirius Golf Advisors as the Golf Course Consultant for Superior National Golf Course as recommended by the selection committee of Bruce Martinson, Braidy Powers, Tim Scannell, John Lindell, Myron Bursheim, Mike Davies and Sue Hakes. The selection committee confirmed their decision to hire Sirius after an interview was conducted. All responders to the RFP were highly qualified.

The County Board voted to accept the Construction Management Agreement with ORB for the One Percent project to improve infrastructure at Superior National. I learned later, that the Agreement before the Board was a draft and it was premature to authorize it. It is anticipated that the County Board will work with the Economic Development Authority (EDA) to move this project and this agreement forward properly.

The County Board authorized the Birch Grove Community Center Project to move forward on upgrading the Service Kitchen for an estimated project costs of $41,790. The Board also approved the Consulting Sub-Agreement with ORB for this project. Tofte Township intends to contract directly with ORB to be the Construction Manager for this project.

Sentence to Serve
The Board approved the contract for Sentence to Serve as presented by Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers. The State's contribution was lowered from 75% to 50% for this program effective last year.

Airport Lease
The Board approved a lease between Cook County and the State Department of Administration for use of a parcel of airport land for the DNR in the event of fire danger.

Airport Grant
The County Board approved the grant agreement for the previously approved purchase of a John Deer Wide Area Mower at a cost not to exceed $51,863.39. The State will pay 2/3 of this cost leaving the County responsible for $17,287.79.

Community Center One Percent Project Update
I was pleased to report to that the Community Center Steering Committee has come to an agreement on a recommendation of the Schematic Design and location for the new facility. This recommendation comes after several months of study and consideration of past and on-going public input, stakeholder surveys and stakeholder representation on the Steering Committee.

The Committee is now ready to present their recommendation to the County Board for authorization to move forward. Included in this presentation will be an overview of the Financial Feasibility study. The Committee will also be holding (2) Public Meetings in mid-May. The purpose of the Public meetings is twofold: 1) to inform the Public of the current recommendation, and 2) to ask the Public for feedback on the schematic design. We will be listening! Stay tuned for dates and locations.

It should be noted that the current design is subject to change as we get input from the County Board and the Public. It will also change as we move from the pre-design to the design phase and as we work to keep the facility within budget for construction, as well as future Operations & Maintenance costs.

No Net Gain, One Percent Projects & Superior National Golf Course

2011-04-12T21:31:00.000-07:00

Vice-Chair Jan Hall chaired the County Board meeting in Board Chair Jim Johnson's absence.

Public Comment
No member of the public opted to address the County Board during the Public Comment period.

Tuckpointing Project at the Courthouse
The County Board approved a request from Maintenance Director Brian Silence to enter into a Contract with Karr Tuckpointing to do some needed tuckpointing on the original Courthouse. The $35,237 bid will be paid in part with a $20,000 grant; the balance of $15,237 will be paid from the Building Fund.

Highway Department
County Engineer David Betts was given Board authorization to solicit bids for roadway striping on CSAH 1, CSAH 10, and CSAH 17. The Board also approved the Local Bridge Replacement Program Grant for the Junco River Bridge on CSAH 8. No money from the General Fund will be used for this $233,900 project; funding will come from State Aid and the grant.

Leo and Clearwater Landings Annual Maintenance Contract
The County Board authorized a Contract for Services with Gloria Johnson to clean the Leo and Clearwater Landings from May 14 thru October 16, 2011 for $80/week.

No Net Gain of Public Land
On February 17, 2011 the Association of Minnesota Counties asked counties "if your county has ever passed a resolution for no net gain of public land or if you plan to consider this in the future". Because this issue is complex, the County Board decided to discuss it at a Work Session to be scheduled in May. The Board discussion included dramatically different points of view on this matter.

In today's meeting, I stated that, "I am 100% against losing property tax revenue, and that a no net gain policy for State-owned land in Cook County could, in fact, have a negative impact on property tax revenues we are able to collect". The Bill currently before the Legislature, House File No. 332, is not a one-size-fits-all solution and while it may be beneficial for some counties or certain particular situations, I do not believe it is beneficial for Cook County.  It could inhibit Cook County in its ability to use its lands for the highest and best purposes and then nobody wins. In addition, the administration of such a policy has the potential to add another layer of government bureaucracy to be paid for by the taxpayer.

The County Board made the correct decision to thoroughly examine this issue at a Work Session; it's very important to our future.

Water Plan Coordinator
Cook County Soil & Water District Manager, Kerrie Fabius, notifed the County Board of CCSW's intention to hire Illena Berg as the new Water Plan Coordinator replacing Cindy Gentz.

Auditor-Treasurer Concerns
Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers reported that Cook County has been awarded a Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness Grant (HMEP) for $6000 to carry out an airplane crash exercise scheduled for the last weekend in April. Emergency Management Director Jim Wiinanen will provide the 20% match of $1500 from his budget. This Aircraft Crash Exercise is being held as part of the 22nd Annual Cook County Emergency Services Conference.

The County Board approved the March 2011 Terms and Conditions of Accepting Airport Improvement Program Grants.

Tom Wacholz, ORB Management
Tom Wacholz and Rob Barse of ORB Management were present to update the Board on the One Percent Sales Tax Projects they are involved in.

Community Center--Wacholz noted that the next Community Center Steering Committee Meeting is scheduled for this Friday, April 15 from 8-5 pm at the Community Center.  The goal of this meeting is to decide on a recommendation to be made to the County Board and the Public regarding the final location and programming to be included in the Community Center. Wacholz also explained that the Steering Committee has been working on the financial feasibility for the proposed Center.

As the Community Center Steering Committee Chair, I discussed the process and the opportunity for public input into the Community Center design.  Once the Steering Committee makes its decision for recommended programming and location, we will bring it to the County Board to seek approval to continue moving foward, followed by (3) Public Meetings we are working to schedule in May. The Public Meetings have (2) major purposes: 1) to inform the Public about the recommended design and financial picture, and 2) obtain Public input and feedback about the recommended design and financial picture.

I also shared with the County Board the work the Steering Committee has been doing to determine the financial feasibility of the new Community Center. We've been working to project estimated costs for a) building the facility, b) operating and maintaining the facility, and c) determining anticipated revenues for the facility. In addition, we're working to project users of each proposed area of the new facility to aid in our decision-making. This process is complex, but critical to the long-term success of the project.

Birch Grove Community Center--Tofte Town Supervisor, DC Olsen, requested the County Board allow them to hire ORB Management as the Construction Manager for their project to improve the Birch Grove Community Center. This project has been estimated to cost just under $500,000 with the current plan to include upgrades to the commercial kitchen, a new tennis court, hockey rink with outdoor basketball court, parking, outdoor toilet, playground, warming hut and landscaping. While most of the funding will come from One Percent Sales Tax funds, Tofte Township has been working to obtain grants and other funding to offset the total cost. Olsen's request of the County board was approved.

Library Expansion Project--The Board approved the Library Project Construction Management Agreement and the Addendum to the Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) between the City and the County for Library Services. Under the JPA, which has already been approved by the City of Grand Marais, the County will act as the owner of the Library project for purposes of signing all contracts.

Superior National Golf Course--Rob Barse reported that (4) proposals were received in response to the RFP sent out to hire a Golf Course Consultant to study Superior National and make recommendations for an overall strategy to maximize the potential of Superior National. The Review Committee to study the proposals includes Myron Bursheim and John Lindell representing the community at large, Braidy Powers and Tim Scannell, Bruce Martinson and Sue Hakes. Every attempt has been made, and will continue to be made to keep this study and the resulting recommendations a truly independent study. The Review Committee has met to review the proposals and will be conducting interviews this week. It is anticipated that a recommendation will be made to the County Board on April 19. Copies of the proposals are available to the public upon request.

Superior National Golf Course Discussion
The Board discussed the EDA's recent decision to hire a Manager at Superior National Golf Course, a decision I believe to be premature. My recommendation to Bruce Martinson, County Board liaison to the EDA is to wait until the Golf Course Study is complete before making any hiring decisions or spending any money. This is consistent with my position with the EDA and Friends of the Golf Course to not allocate any County or One Percent Funds until there is a sound business strategy in place. Clearly, the EDA has gotten "the cart before the horse" in this matter.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Janet Simonen and Sue Hakes reminded the Board that April 13, 2011 is "Denim Day", a day that has been set aside to wear jeans as a way to raise awareness and take a stand against rape. If you, or someone you know, needs help, you may contact the Violence Prevention Center at 218-387-1262 or on their Crisis Line at 218-387-1237. For more information about the Violence Prevention Center, check their website at http://www.hope-4-u.org/.

Cook County Taxes

2011-04-10T14:22:00.000-07:00

The current issue of North Shore Highway 61 features an interesting and informative article about Cook County local taxes entitled, "How Do Our Property Taxes Compare With Others" written by Jim Boyd. Check it out.

Iron Range Lawmakers Fight the Good Fight But Fail to Prevent Take Away

2011-04-06T08:21:00.000-07:00

ST. PAUL — Iron Range lawmakers waged an emotional fight but failed to prevent the Minnesota House from taking $60 million out of an economic development fund slated for the area. Read full story at:

http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/event/article/id/195735/

Iron Range Lawmakers, both Democrat and Republican, banned together to prevent this unfair takeaway.

County Board Meeting with One Percent Projects Update

2011-03-22T22:39:00.000-07:00

The diversity of the work is a major reason I enjoy being a County Commissioner. As is typical, we covered a variety of topics at today's County Board Meeting.

Public Comment Period
No member of the Public opted to address the County Board at today's meeting. I encourage the Public to use this time to bring issues or concerns to the full Board, as well as become part of the public record. It's a very powerful way to have your voice be heard.

Cook County Comprehensive Water Management Plan
Cindy Gentz, Water Plan Coordinator, requested the Board pass a resolution requesting an extension of the Water Plan from the Board of Water and Soil Resources. This request was made due to staff changes in the Soil and Water Conservation District. The County Board passed this resolution in support of a 2-year extension to the Water Plan (2014).

Highway Department
County Engineer David Betts notified the Board that Highway Department Engineering Technician Bill Parish will be retiring effective June 3, 2011. With regret and appreciation for the dedicated service of Parish, the County Board accepted his retirement.

The County Board authorized the Highway Department to work with the Personnel Committee to prepare a final job description and proceed with the process to replace Parish. Minimum qualifications for this position will be a graduate of a four-year civil engineering program plus 4-10 years experience in highway design and inspection.

The County Board approved a grant application submitted by the Cook County Safe Routes to School Committee for the installation of a driver feedback sign on CSAH 7 (west of the school and facing eastbound traffic).

Planning and Zoning
The County Board approved (3) requests that were reviewed and recommended by the Planning Commission:

1. The County Board approved a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for Ronald Wills to establish a home business within the Forest/Agriculture Residential (FAR-3) zone district. Wills intends to continue the operation of his Caribou Cream maple syrup business on the Caribou Trail.

2. The County Board approved a request for an Interim Use Permit to allow the extended use of a recreational vehicle (RV) for habitation on property adjacent to Greenwood Lake. This is the 2nd permit granted to Walter and Nancy Sellman; it does expire 3-years after approval by the Board of Commissioners.

Note: This is the 2nd request for a Conditional Use Permit to allow an RV on an inland lake lot in 2011. Per the Office of Planning and Zoning (OPZ) it is anticipated that similar requests will be increasing in number. Because of this, I asked OPZ to consider the character and economic impact to neighborhoods and make some type of recommendation to the Board. I suspect one reason for the increase in this type of request is that due to the downturn in the economy, it has become more difficult for property owners to build. I have formulated no opinion on this matter, but felt the County should study it and move forward with careful thought and consideration.

3. The County Board approved a request from Jeff Latz for a zone change from Forest/Agriculture Residential (Far-3) to the Light Business Development Area zone in Lutsen. Rezoning this property is consistent with the Lutsen Town Plan and the Cook County Land Use Guide Plan.

PUBLIC HEARING to consider making changes to the Cook County Fee Schedule
No member of the Public opted to speak at the Public Hearing held to consider changes to the Cook County Fee Schedule. The County Board passed the proposed changes to the County Fee Schedule.

One Percent Projects Update
Tom Wacholz, President of ORB Management, updated the County Board on (3) One Percent Projects:

1. The Community Center Steering Committee continues to work through the Conceptual Design Phase of the project. Wacholz believes this process is approximately 80% complete. The Steering Committee's next full day meeting is slated for April 15. At this meeting the Committee will study estimated costs associated for building, operating and maintaining the various types of programming the Committee hopes to include in the new facility. Wacholz encouraged the Public to call members of the Committee with their ideas and input. As the Steering Committee Chair, I noted that we intend to have Public Meetings regarding the Community Center sometimes between April 15 and 27.

2. The Superior National RFP has been sent out in search of a Golf Course Consultant. Proposals are due 4/1/2011. (Commissioner Martinson is the County's liaison to the EDA.)

3. The County Board authorized County Attorney Tim Scannell to negotiate a Contract with ORB Management to be the Construction Manager (CM) on the Library Expansion Project. The City and the County will create an addendum to their Joint Powers Agreement to allow for this partnership. The Board again discussed the pros and cons of using a CM vs. the more traditional design-build arrangement. Using the CM structure allows greater opportunity for local contractors to work on this project and played an important role in the Board's decision. (Commissioner Sobanja is the County's liaison to the Library Board.)

Clearwater Lodge Satisfaction of Mortgage
On March 15, 2011 the County Board declined a request to further reduce the balance due the County Revolving Loan Fund to $21,750. (Last year the County Board agreed to reduce the balance due from ~$55K to ~$27,500 in an effort to support a potential sale of the Lodge.) Braidy Powers shared that the parties have agreed to $27,500 to satisfy the County's claim and release a Satisfaction of Mortgage.

Economic Development Agency (EDA)
The County Board approved a Service Agreement between the County and the EDA for the Auditor's Office to act as fiscal agent for the EDA (includes Superior National). Prior to the County taking over this accounting-only function, the EDA needs to complete its 2010 Audit Work and ensure that the books are current and accurate as of the date the County takes over. This agreement ends on December 31, 2011 at which time the process will be evaluated. This change is being done to increase accountability for and understanding of EDA finances.
Commissioner Martinson reported that the EDA Board has selected (3) candidates from a field of (5) to be considered for the proposed position of Superior National Golf Course Manager: Todd Gervais, Keith Heckstrom, Bob Fenwick

ATV Ordinance Review
Cook County ATV Club Secretary, Rhonda Silence, (via email) asked to be notified when the County Board conducts it next review of the ATV Ordinance. Our ordinance states "the County Board shall request an annual report regarding ATV use from the Sheriff's Office, the Highway Department and the DNR." The Board will solicit this information from these organizations and will notify the ATV Club of its review process.

Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program (FHPAP)
The County Board passed a resolution to support the FHPAP application for $30,000 for Lake and Cook Counties in the prevention of homelessness. AEOA plans to partner with Kootasca Community Action to apply to the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency for this funding

April is National County Government Month
The National Association of Counties (NACo) has declared April as the month to celebrate County Government. As a way to promote county government programs and services, increase understanding about local government and build a better relationship with the Public, I suggested we hold an open house at the Courthouse. We all agreed that holding this event in April would be too short of notice to do it right. So, I volunteered (at the suggestion of Board Chair Jim Johnson) to take the lead on this and work with the County Department Heads to plan an event sometime this calendar year.

Drug Discount Program for County Residents

2011-03-16T18:39:00.000-07:00

County Board Chair Jim Johnson has been instrumental in working to provide County residents with a drug discount program through the National Association of Counties (NaCO). For more details, listen to this WTIP news report or read the good news in this NaCO News Release.

Meetings! Meetings! Meetings!

2011-03-15T20:08:00.000-07:00

It was a full agenda for the Human Services Board and the County Board today with a Human Services Board Meeting, County Board Meeting, Public Hearing for Judge Magney Area Survey, and One Percent Library Project Work Session.

Human Services Board Meeting

As a reminder, the Human Services Board consists of the County Board, Diane Fitzgerald and Carla LaPointe. All were present today except Jan Hall who was ill.

After some tweaks to the agenda, approval of the February 15 Meeting Minutes and Committee Reports, Wendy Danielson gave an informative presentation on Child Support.

Child Support Officer Report
Wendy Danielson is the Child Support Officer for Public Health & Human Services. From Danielson's presentation I learned that Cook County serves a target population of clients who need, want or require child support services. Most clients are non-public assistance clients. As of March 2011, Cook County had 208 cases compared to 174 last year.

As the Child Support Officer, Danielson works to locate parents, establish paternity and support obligations, enforce and collect support obligations, provide program education and refer clients to other needed resources. This work is important because it benefits children by enforcing parental responsibility.

If you, or someone you know, has questions about child support issues, you may find further information by going to the Minnesota Department of Human Services Child Support web page or the Minnesota Judicial Branch Child Support Self-Help Center. Danielson also encourages those in need or with questions to contact her directly at 218 387 3619.

Financial Report
Jan Parish, Income Maintenance & Fiscal Supervisor, gave a year-to-date financial report. Parish noted that she is still working to close out 2010. She also gave the Board advance notification that the PHHS Fund Balance is likely to go down ~$24,000. This is due mainly to a reduction in property tax collected.

Director's Report
Sue Futterer, Director, reported on revisions to the Region 3 Redesign Income Maintenance Project. This Project is our first step in Minnesota's Human Services Redesign Project to examine how we might deliver Human Services more effectively and more efficiently. Cook County Human Services, working with Carlton, Aitkin, Itasca, Koochiching and Lake Counties has agreed to participate in a Discovery Phase to Redesign Income Maintenance Services by standardizing the business process, improving efficiency, and offering a choice of service area for clients receiving Income Maintenance. The Board approved authorization of $122,298 to be divided among the 6 counties or $20,383. 50% of this amount will be reimbursed from the Federal Government.

Futterer continues to keep an eye on Legislative Issues, particularly as they relate to the Health and Human Services (HHS) Budget. Specific budget cuts in HHS are expected to be released on March 22.

And, upon Futterer's request, the Board has proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month during which the Cook County Human Services Board calls upon all citizens, community groups, religious organizations, medical facilities, and businesses to increase their participation in efforts to prevent child abuse and neglect, thereby strengthening the community in which we live.

Board Actions
Board approved an Amendment to Purchase of Service Agreement between Cook County and Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency (AEOA) to include transportation funds for an MFIP Work Program for 2011.

Board approved a Purchase of Service Agreement between Cook County and the Center for Alcohol and Drug Treatment for Detoxification Services for 2011.

County Board Meeting

Public Comment Period
Sam Parker addressed the Board. Parker stated that Boundary Commissions do solve problems. He also stressed the importance of considering private sector service providers wanting opportunities to bid survey jobs noting that not all survey work needs to be done by the County Surveyor.

Amendment to Lease Agreement for Lutsen Tower
The Board approved an amendment to renew Lease Agreement No. 09623 for an additional term of (5) years from April 2, 2011 through March 31, 2016. This lease agreement is between Cook County and MN DOT for a State owned tower on County owned property.

Clearwater Lodge Satisfaction of Mortgage
The County Board declined a request to further reduce the balance due the County Revolving Loan Fund to $21,750. Last year the County Board agreed to reduce the balance due from ~$55K to ~$27,500 in an effort to support a potential sale of the Lodge.

Discussion of Boundary Commission for End of the Gunflint Trail
After consideration of the need for a Boundary Comission at the end of the Gunflint Trail, County Contract Surveyor Wayne Hensche recommends no action by the County. Hensche explained that areas of concern could be addressed by the affected owners agreeing to corrections and hiring their own surveyors.

11:00 AM PUBLIC HEARING CONTINUATION for Judge Magney Area Survey
This hearing was continued from February 22, 2011. Property owner Tom Fiero asked County Contract Surveyor Wayne Hensche several questions about the plat. The County Board discussed how to most equitably allocate the costs of the survey among the property owners. Historically, the County has divided the cost by the number of acres and allocated the costs by acreage. In an effort to achieve fairness, the County Board has decided to impose a minimum charge of $650 to property owners. As a result, the Public Hearing has been continued to 11:00 AM on Tuesday April, 19, 2011.

US Forest Service Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Invasives Grant (GLRI)
County Engineer/Agriculture Inspector, David Betts, along with Jack Greenlee of the US Forest Service presented (2) Agreements regarding the GLRI Grant--1) Master Agreement with general provisions, and 2) Supplemental Agreement for this specific grant. This GLRI Grant is for $93,825 and requires a 20 percent local match which may be provided as monies or in-kind labor. The purpose of this initiative is to combat invasive plant species within Cook County through various methods including hand-pulling, mowing and spraying. The County Board approved entering into both agreements.

Betts also reported that seasonal road restrictions will go into effect at 12:01 am., Friday, March 18, 2011, and will remain in effect for a minimum of eight weeks. After that period, road restrictions will be lifted on a case-by-case basis as conditions warrant.

2011 County Board Work Sessions
The Board agreed to schedule work sessions to a) discuss the 2012 budget (May) and b) get training on writing objective employee reviews (June).

One Percent Library Project Work Session

A work session was held with the County Board, Library Board, City of Grand Marais representatives Mike Roth and Bill Lenz, County Auditor/Treasurer Braidy Powers, County Attorney Tim Scannell, ORB Management, DSGW Architects to discuss the organizational structure of the One Percent Library Project. ORB Management will provide (2) proposals for County Board review on March 22 outlining services and costs as either a Consultant or Construction Manager.

Understanding Cook County Public Health and Human Services

2011-03-09T16:01:00.000-08:00

WTIP News Reporter Jay Anderson interviewed Sue Futterer, Director of Cook County Public Health and Human Services (PHHS), on WTIP Community Radio's "Third Thursday Community Conversations" on February 17, 2011.

Providing social service programs to local residents is one of Cook County's largest government responsibilities. The annual budget for the PHHS Department is ~$2M and the programs are complex. Listen to Jay's interview with Sue Futterer as she sheds light on these very important and necessary services.

If you, or someone you know, needs help, go to the Cook County website or call 218-387-3620.

County Board Meeting

2011-03-08T16:03:00.000-08:00

Today's County Board Meeting was led by Vice-Chair Jan Hall in Jim Johnson's absence.

Open Forum
City Council Member Tim Kennedy invited the County Board to attend a Superior Cycling Association meeting in Lutsen on March 15 at 2 pm. The purpose of the meeting is to inform the Public about efforts to build a mountain bike trail designed to draw road cycling enthuasiast of every skill level to the Arrowhead Region.

PILT Title III Funding Request
Patty Johnson, US Forest Service Representative, informed the County Board about a GIS Special Data project she has been working on with Kyle Oberg from the County IT Department. Johnson reported that she is seeking County Board support to pursue Title III Funding for a project to create spatial data to be used across agencies and eventually tied into a 911 system. The County Board authorized Johnson to move forward on her proposal and to estimate costs.

Highway Department Capital Purchase Requests
The County Board approved the purchase of (2) 2011 GMC Sierra 2500 4WD Crew Cab Pickups, (1) 2011 MT525B 4WD Tractor and 30' boom with rotary mower and controls, and (1) 23' boom with rotary mower. When questioned as to why it was necessary to purchase (2) new pickup trucks, the Board learned that the newer 2002 truck has 146,000 miles and is in rough condition and the 1994 truck has 180,000 miles on it. Combined, these purchases are over the previously approved budget by $19,400. County Engineer David Betts and Maintenance Supervisor Russell Klegstad stated that this overrun will be managed within their existing budget by rescheduling some non-essential culvert work.

Airport Commission Capital Purchase Reqeust
Rod Roy, Airport Commission, requested approval from the County Board to authorize $17,114.79 to purchase a John Deere WAM Mower to replace a 1985 mower which is worn out. The total cost for this equipment is $51,863.39 including tax. A State FAA grant will pay 2/3 of this cost. The County Board approved this purchase.

County Veterans Service Office Enhancement Grant Program
The County Board approved a resolution to enter into a grant contract with the MN Department of Veteran Affairs for transporting veterans to medical appointments. The State awarded this two-year grant in the amount of $12,350.

Emergency Operations Plans Review
Commissioners Jan Hall and Jim Johnson were appointed to participate in the Cook County Emergency Operations Plan review to be conducted between June and September 2011.

One Percent Project Updates
Commissioner Fritz Sobanja reported that there will be a County Board Work Session on Tuesday March 15 from 1:30-3:00 with the Library Board and representatives of the City to discuss the Library Expansion Project.

Commissioner Bruce Martinson, supported by Tom Wacholz of ORB Management, reported that the RFP seeking proposals from a qualified golf course management expert for the provision of a comprehensive assessment of Superior National Golf Course will be mailed this week with a due to of April 1.

I reported that the Community Center Sub-Committees have met/continue to meet and will reconvene at the next full Steering Committee Meeting to be held from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm on Wednesday, March 16. As a reminder, the public is welcome to attend these meetings.

Discussion of "No Net Gain" regarding Public Land
The Association of Minnesota County's question asking if your County has ever passed a resolution for no net gain of public land or if you plan to consider this in the future, prompted a lively discussion about this issue. Cook County does not currently have a "no net gain" policy on record. I need more information before making a decision with as much impact as this and plan to research it. Clearly, there are compelling arguments to be made on both sides of this concern. Prior to today's meeting, I read with interest an article entitled "Let's Keep Lawmakers Out of the Real Estate Business" written in Points North by local writer and outdoorsman Shawn Perich.

Live Call-in Show on WTIP on the "One Percent' Projects

2011-03-08T14:28:00.000-08:00

Interested in learning more about the new Community Center, Library expansion, Birch Grove Rec Area, Superior National infrastructure improvementes and other projects to be funded under the Cook County One Percent Sales Tax? If so, listen to last week's WTIP North Shore Community Radio's First Thursday Program on the subject. In the studio with Jay Anderson was Commissioner Bruce Martinson, County Auditor/Treasurer Braidy Powers, Librarian Linda Chappell and me! I hope you find the information useful.

Still Getting Up to Speed...

2011-02-25T16:32:00.000-08:00

Part of what I enjoy most about my new job as County Commissioner is the high learning curve. It's been interesting to meet with the various departments and service providers in an effort to learn about the work they do. My overall goal is to meet with every department head and staff. This past month, I was able to connect with a few more!

Crime Victim/Witness Services
Just off of the County Attorney's Office is the Crime Victim/Witness Services office for Cook County.  When I poked my head inside the door, I was greeted by Coordinator Susan Maijala and given an overview of the services she provides.  Established in 2004, the Crime Victim/Witness Services program was created to assist victims with the physical, emotional and financial hardships caused by criminal victimization. Examples of general crimes include theft, forgery, robbery, non-domestic assault, harassment, terroristic threats, vandalism, burglary, homicide and arson. If you or someone you know has been a victim of a crime and needs help, call 218/387-3669.

Veteran's Services Officer
County Veteran's Service Officers (VSO) were established in 1946 to assist veterans and their families in obtaining benefits and services accrued through military service. If you are a veteran, widow of a veteran, child of a deceased or disabled veteran, or parent who lost a son or daughter in military service, your County VSO can assist you by providing information on a wide range of topics including benefits, education, insurance, health care, home loans, other. Veterans can rely on their VSO to either advocate for them or refer them to somebody who can. Clarence Everson is the VSO for both Grand Portage and Cook County. With a big smile on his face, he told me he loves his job, so don't be shy about calling him at 218 475 2780 or 218 370 0646. Everson's email is clarence.everson@state.mn.us.

Recorder's Office
Last week I had a tour of the Cook County Recorder's Office. County Recorder Dusty Nelms showed me the front office and then showed me around the backroom where they still put to good use several beautiful old wood tables, chairs and work tables.  The mission of the Recorder's Office is simple and clear:

"To promptly record, file and preserve documents accurately in an efficient, responsible and professional manner for posterity and legal purposes. The County Recorder in Cook County is the custodian of all legal records pertaining to real estate, birth, death, marriage, military discharges, notary public, Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) and tax liens. This office also serves as a Passport Agent for the U.S. Department of State Passport Services.   All records pertaining to real estate are public records and may be viewed upon request. Upon receipt of payment, the Recorder can process requests for copies of documents or certified copies of vital records. We handle some research requests or can assist you with your research."

The documents meticulously and carefully maintained in the Recorder's Office tell so much of the story about the people of Cook County. It not only provides an important legal purpose, but is an interesting place to dig into local history.

Snowfall Around the State Impacts County's Agenda

2011-02-22T20:01:00.000-08:00

Snowfalls from Minneapolis to Alexandria impacted the County Board Agenda for today's scheduled Board Meeting, Public Hearing and Monthly Worksession. Snowed in and unable to travel safely to Grand Marais were Tom Wacholz and Rob Barse of ORB Management, Contract Surveyor Wayne Hensche, and MCIT Representatives Robyn Sykes and Jennifer Wolf.

Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to address the County Board during the Public Comment period of the meeting.

North House Folk School (NHFS)
Greg Wright, Director of NHFS, gave a very positive overview of the state of North House Folk School. Highlights of Wright's report included notice that this year marks the 10th Unplugged Music Festival and will include NPR's featured music radio show Mountain Stage. Wright also reported on the MN Lake Superior Coastal Program Grant with the City of Grand Marais, their "Raise the Roof" project and finally a financial overview of 2009 thru 2011.

Mush for a Cure Special Event Permit
The County Board approved a Special Event Permit for the Mush for a Cure Fun Run fundraiser to find a cure for breast cancer. The Board agreed to waive the fees for this event scheduled for March 11-12, 2011 on the Gunflint Trail.

Patrol Vehicle Replacement
The Board approved the Sheriff's request to purchase and replace two patrol vehicles. The Sheriff's Department will purchase (2) 2011 Ford Crown Victoria police package vehicles from Elk River Ford as they have the state bid for these automobiles.

Lease Agreement for Eagle Mountain Tower
The County Board tabled a request from the Sheriff's Department to renew Lease Agreement No. 9623 for an additional 5 years from April 1, 2011 through March 31, 2016.  The Board had several questions regarding this lease and how it fits into the overall needs of the County for communications and towers. Because Sheriff Falk was absent from today's meeting and unable to answer our questions, we tabled the discussion until the next Board Meeting.

Town of Tofte Rock Stockpile
The Board approved a Conditional Use Permit to temporarily stockpile approximately 40,000 cubic yards of blasted rock at the abandoned Tofte Cook County Airport. This approval is an amendment to a CUP originally granted for 30,000 cubic yards. No additional material will be transported to this site.

Poplar River AUAR 2011 Update
Tim Nelson, Planning Director/Solid Waste Officer, notified the Board that the Poplar River AUAR will need to be considered in 2011 and that options include letting it lapse, revising or renewing the agreement. The Board directed Nelson to get input from the Poplar River Management Board and Soil & Water Department before making any decisions.

Solid Waste Management Plan
Tim Nelson also reported that the 10 year plan for Solid Waste Managment is due in 2011. This report will be developed in-house and will consider, among other issues, recycling, hazardous waste, electronic waste, and waste transfer.

PUBLIC HEARING for Judge Magney Plat
A Public Hearing to assess the costs for the Judge Magney plat was held. (3) members of the Public expressed concerns about the allocation of costs to property owners, stressing a need for fairness. Due to bad weather, County Contract Surveyor Wayne Hensche was unable to attend today's Public Hearing, so the Hearing will be continued at 11:00 am on March 15, 2011.

Gitchee Gami Bike Trail
Kevin Johnson and Joe Russell of MN DNR Parks and Trails updated the County Board on the engineering design, construction and funding of the Gitchee Gami Bike Trail that runs along the North Shore of Lake Superior. (2) small segments of the Trail are planned for construction in the summer of 2011 in Schroeder and Lutsen. The 8 mile stretch of Trail west of Grand Marais to Cascade River State Park is currently in the Planning Phase.

Community Center Update
ORB Management was unable to participate in today's Board Meeting as they were snowbound in Alexandria. As Chair of the Steering Committee, I presented the list of Steering Committee Members for County Board approval.  And, in ORB's absence I reported on the recent progress of the Committee noting that we are deep into the Design Phase and the decision-making process for programming to be included in the new Community Center facility. ORB will be updating the County Board, ISD 166, the City of Grand Marais, and the Grand Portage Tribal Council at their Joint CCST Meeting at 4 pm on Thursday, February 24 in the Commissioner's Room. As always, the Public is welcome at these meetings.

Citizen Appointments
The Board unanimously approved the appointments of Johnathen Smith to the Cook County Planning Commission and Keck Melby to the Governor's Council on MN Coastal Program.

County Board Worksession on Issues Regarding public Meetings and the Open Meeting Law
The County Board Worksession for February was postponed because Robyn Sykes and Jennifer Wolf of MN Counties Intergovernmental Trust were unable to get to Grand Marais due to the snowstorm in Minneapolis. This meeting will be rescheduled at a later time.

Human Services and County Board Meetings

2011-02-15T20:32:00.000-08:00

Cook County Human Services Board
A monthly meeting of the Human Services Board is held the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 8:30 am.

Statewide Health Improvement Project (SHIP)
Kristen De Arruda Wharton and April McCormick, SHIP Coordinators from Cook County and Grand Portage, provided an update on their respective programs. Although these programs are funded independently of each other, they collaborate where it makes sense. The SHIP program was established by the MN Department of Health to help Minnesotans live better and targets tobacco use, physical inactivity and poor nutrition in communities throughout the state. Joan Farnum wrote an informative article about the SHIP Program in the current issue of Highway 61.

Director's Report
Human Services Director Sue Futterer reported on both the Local Public Health Association of MN (LPHA) and Minnesota Association of County Social Service Administrators (MACSSA) legislative priorities. Futterer also reported on the evaluation recently completed by the Office of the Legislative Auditor (OLA) done for Medical Non-emergency Transportation and the Region 3 Redesign Update noting that costs for this effort are still varying by ~20%.

Futterer invited the new and existing members of the Human Services Board to participate in the "Public Health Update for New Local Elected Officials Orientation to Public Health" to be held on March 28 via ITV from the Courthouse. I know that I'm looking forward to this Session sponsored by the State Community Health Services Advisory Committee and the MN Department of Health Office of Performance Improvement. The world of Public Health is complex and trainings such as this are certainly appreciated by me.

Fiscal Supervisor's Report
Jan Parish elaborated on Sue Futterer's report on Non-emergency Medical Transportation, both noting that it is somewhat cumbersome. Parish also reported that effective March 1, 2011 additional low income adults will be eligible for Medicaid benefits when MN begins implementing the expanded Medical Assistance (MA) program.

Board Actions
The Board approved the appointment of Edwina Hertzberg for a 3-year term on the Public Health & Human Services Advisory Committee through 2013.

The Board also approved (4) Service agreements for the year 2011, including Home Delivered Meals (aka Meals on Wheels).

County Board Meeting

Immediately after the Human Services Board Meeting, the County Board held its regularly scheduled meeting.

County Board of Appeal and Equalization Meeting
On County Assessor Mary Black's recommendation, the Board set the 2011 County Board of Appeal and Equalization Meeting for 6:30 pm on Tuesday, June 21 to hear appeals from property owners who disagree with their assessed value.

Establishing a Boundary Commission
Wayne Hensche, Cook County contract surveyor, was unable to attend today's meeting to discuss the possible need to establish a Boundary Commission for the SAG/Top of the Trail area. In the past, a request such as this has come as a request from the Public. This issue will be added to the agenda for March.

ORB Management
After a healthy discussion, the County Board voted unanimously to accept the proposed Master Consulting Agreement between ORB Management and Cook County. Under this Agreement, the County may enter into Sub-Agreements with ORB to consult on public infrastructure projects funded through the 1% Sales Tax (passed by Voter Referendum in 2009). ORB's role as a Consultant may vary depending upon the project, but will likely include assisting in the management and administration of some or all of the 1% Sales Tax Projects. Under this Agreement, ORB will be paid a consulting fee not to exceed 2.5% of the total cost of each individual 1% Project plus reimbursables (i.e., fees on a $1M project would be $25,000). Either party may suspend or terminate this Agreement upon (60) days written notice to the other party.

ORB also provided a brief update on the Community Center Project, currently in the Design Phase of the project. The Community Center Steering Committee is meeting from 8-5 pm Wednesday (Commissioner's Room) and again Thursday from 3-4 (Community Center) to discuss the programing, facility design and location of the new Community Center. A more detailed presentation will be given to the County Board on February 22. The Public is welcome to attend any of these meetings.

The County Board voted unanimously for Tim Scannell and Braidy Powers to draft for review and approval a proposed Sub-Agreement for ORB Management to assist in the management and administration of the Library Expansion project.

Exterior Courthouse Lighting
The County Board approved a request from Maintenance Director Brian Silence for new exterior lighting fixtures to replace the damaged and not-very-effective lighting that exists on the east side of the Courthouse.

Reports and Concerns
- Dave Saethre was appointed to the Airport Commission.
- The County Auditor/Treasurer's Office continues to explore the pros and cons of assuming EDA financial and payroll functions.

Construction Management and ORB

2011-02-11T19:25:00.000-08:00

I appreciated the Letter to the Editor from Gary Wilhelm of Grand Marais in today's Cook County News Herald. In his letter, Mr. Wilhelm asks several thoughtful and important questions about the role ORB Management is playing in Cook County's 1% Sales Tax Projects. I'd been tossing around the idea of going into greater detail in my blog about ORB Management's involvement in the 1% Community Center Project and welcome the prompt. I hope the following information is useful in clarifying questions and improving overall understanding of the project.

Cook County 1% Community Center Project

ORB Management Corporation has been hired by Cook County as the Construction Manager and Owner's Representative for the Community Center to be built with 1% Sales Tax Funding (the 1% Sales Tax passed by voter referendum in November 2009).   After careful study, thought and consideration, the Steering Committee and the County Board agreed it was in the County's best interest to hire a Construction Manager/Owner's Representative to be contractually obligated to look out for and advocate for the financial well being of Cook County. This contractual relationship is vastly different from other options considered, including the more traditional design-bid-build way of using a general contractor.

Over the years, it's become commonplace for construction projects to use the traditional design-bid-build process. More recently, Cities and Counties (and the private sector) have begun opting for a different approach, "construction management". Minnesota Cities Magazine published a very informative article about construction management and its advantages in an article entitled "A Construction Alternative".   Cook County has hired ORB Management as their Construction Manager in an Agency Relationship as described in this article.

As Construction Manager and the County's Owner's Representative, ORB Management will be acting as an advocate for Cook County. ORB is representing the County, subject to the County Board's final direction and control. Specifically, acting as our Owner's Representative ORB Management will represent the County throughout the entire Project including Pre-Construction, Design, Construction and Warranty/Start Up. See Exhibit A thru Exhibit E for more details about the Services provided by ORB.

From my view, the most significant advantages to hiring a Construction Manager to act as our Owner's Representative are:

1. Control over the project--The County will contract directly with ORB, the Architect and all of the individual contractors. This contractual arrangement allows the County to select the individual contractors for the job instead of having a general contractor make those decisions. It is important to the Steering Committee and the County Board to give local contractors an opportunity to bid on this project.
2. Costs savings--ORB is charging 5% of the total costs of the Project construction which is lower than fees often charged by general contractors, even when combined with the Architect Fees. At the end of the Design Phase, the Parties may agree to a lump sum payment amount. ORB will also assist the County in estimating Operating & Maintenance of the proposed facility to ensure we don't build more than we can afford to maintain and operate.
3. Construction Expertise & Risk Management--Our County Board and Staff does not have the construction experience or expertise required to manage a project of this complexity and magnitude. It was a prudent decision to hire a qualified construction manager that understands the construction business to reduce the County's financial risk and ensure a quality facility.
4. Advising the County Board--ORB Management will advise the Steering Committee, County Staff, and the County Board on a regular basis at Steering Committee Meetings and at least monthly at County Board Meetings.

Note: The Community Center Steering Committee meets at least monthly. These meetings are posted and the Public is welcome. We are currently in the Design Phase of the Project, working with Meyer Group/JLG Architects. As part of the Design Process, we will be hosting Public Meetings to solicit Public input.  These meetings are likely to be scheduled within the next month.

Other 1% Sales Tax Projects

The County Board is also considering using ORB Management on other public infrastructure projects funded through the 1% Sales Tax. At this time, ORB's role as a consultant is undefined, but could range from assisting in the management and administration of some or all of the 1% Sales Tax Projects or expanding the role to one of Construction Management/Owner's Representative.

ORB has proposed a Master Consulting Agreement for Services to Be Provided under which a series of Sub-Agreements may be made for specific 1% Sales Tax Projects at terms to be negotiated. ORB is proposing a consulting fee of 2.5% of the total cost of each individual 1% Project plus reimbursables (i.e., fees on a $1M project would be $25,000). ORB is on the County Board Agenda for February 15 to present their proposal.

Key ORB Management Personnel on both the Community Center Project and future 1% Sales Tax Projects are Tom Wacholz, Owner/President, Wade Cole, Senior Project Manager, and Rob Barse, Project Technical Manager.

Conclusion
As Chair of the Community Center Steering Committee, I'm passionate about the success of this project on all levels. I'm also committed to an open and transparent process and opportunity for public input and involvement.  If you're interested in being part of the team, let me know. We've got a couple of openings on the Steering Committee.

As always, feel free to contact me with your ideas, questions or concerns. You may reach me by email at hakes@boreal.org or 218 387 2111 (home/office) or 218 370 9833 (cell).

Catch Up

2011-02-10T22:14:00.000-08:00

I've attended several meetings these past (2) weeks and wanted to give you an overview.

Local Radio User's Committee Meeting
On February 1, Sheriff Falk called a meeting of local radio users to discuss the pros and cons of Cook County migrating from the current VHF Radio System Equipment to the State of Minnesota Allied Radio Matrix for Emergency Response (ARMER) Radio System. This meeting was well attended by local Fire Departments, EMTs, Public Health, County Representatives, City Representatives, Law Enforcement, etc. Advantages of going to ARMER--such as improved County-wide communications, improved confidentiality, and regional/statewide interoperability--were identified. Disadvantages--such as the difficulties associated in changing the way we currently do business, coverage gaps, and costs--were also discussed. A sub-committee of the Local Users Group (M. Prom, S. Perich, J. Clearwater, S. DuChien, J. Groth, S. Hakes, M. Falk) was created to continue addressing these issues.

Towers Ad Hoc Committee
On February 9, the Towers Ad Hoc Committee met to discuss concerns and issues regarding towers in Cook County. There is a growing need for technical, administrative and legal support regarding existing towers and towers to be built in Cook County. There is also a need for a business plan to maximize potential revenues by leasing space on these towers. Towers play an important role in Public Safety, radio communications and cell phone service, as well as future uses including ARMER, expanded cell phone service and broadband. Sheriff Falk, Duane Ege, Tim Scannell and Kirk Oberg will work as the core group supporting towers.

Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Association (AEOA)
I attended my first AEOA Board Meeting on February 9 in Virginia, MN at the AEOA Office. Also representing Cook County on the AEOA Board is Andra Lilienthal from Community Education. I've appreciated learning more about the AEOA organization these past weeks. The work they do is far-reaching and touches Cook County in a number of ways including Community Education, Food Shelf, Arrowhead Transit, Head Start, Housing Rehab and more. If you go to the AEOA website you will learn that "AEOA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and established as a Community Action Program (CAP) for the northeast Minnesota counties of St. Louis, Lake, and Cook. Service delivery for some programs has extended to the four neighboring counties of Aitkin, Carlton, Itasca, and Koochiching. AEOA strengthens communities by providing opportunities for people experiencing social and economic challenges."

Windomnet Presentation on Broadband
Today, Dan Olsen from Windom, shared his community's experiences around installing a broadband Fiber Optic Network, aka Windomnet. It was extremely interesting to hear Olsen talk about the successes and challenges of this undertaking. Dan--a 27 year telecom industry vet-- shared multiple success stories and the demand from the Windom area business community for Broadband Service. Today's presentation was sponsored by Cook County Higher Ed, University of MN Extensions' Center for Community Vitality and Minnesota Intelligent Rural Communities (MIRC). Olsen spoke before a very full Commissioner's Room filled with interested business owners and residents.

Full Agenda at the County Board Meeting

2011-02-08T19:42:00.000-08:00

We covered a lot of ground at today's County Board meeting. Below is a summary of the highlights from my perspective:

Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to address the County Board today. As a reminder, this time is set aside at the start of each County Board Meeting for members of the Public to bring issues, concerns, questions, or ideas to the County Board. Whether you are a bit shy or quite seasoned at advocating for your cause, coming before the Board is a powerful way to have your voice be heard.

Trunk Highway 61 Intersection Lighting
County Engineer David Betts and Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) Traffic Engineer Rob Ege shared the MnDOT Strategic Safety Plan Initiative in District 1 which includes plans to install intersection lighting at various trunk highway intersections in Cook County. MnDOT will install (1) dark sky compliant light fixture at (3) Highway 61 Intersections in Cook County:  CSAH 2 (Sawbill Trail), CSAH 5 (Ski Hill Road), CSAH 7 (West of Grand Marais). The Board agreed to enter into an agreement with MnDOT to provide power and routine maintenance for these lights; MnDOT will provide major maintenance such as replacement of knocked-down poles and long-term replacements.

Highway Department Winter Maintenance Update
Highway Department Maintenance Supervisor Russell Klegstad reported that the added personnel and the changes made to the snow removal routes has resulted in getting the County's roads plowed more expeditiously.  He also reported that the Highway Department is making plans to ensure that they have enough salt and sand to get us through this winter season.

Committee Openings
Diane Booth presented the U of M Extension Committee request to have Deb Benedict and Tim Nickolay fill openings on their board. She also requested that Don Goodell be appointed as the Extension Committee representative on the Community Center Board of Trustees. The County Board approved both appointments unanimously.

Judge Magney Survey Plat
The County Board approved the plat presented by contract County Surveyor Wayne Hensche for the Magney State Park Citizen Petition. A Public Hearing is being scheduled for February 22, 2011 at 10 am for the public to assess the costs/acre. If landowners have any questions about this plat, the assessments, or the process, they should call Cook County Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers at 218-387-3646 or Wayne Hensche at 218-387-1172.

Grand Marais Library Expansion Project
John Geissler, Architect from DSGW Architects, along with Librarian Linda Chappell and members of the Library Board presented an overview of their progress to date on the Library Expansion project to be paid for with 1% Sales Tax Funds. DSGW presented a Project Budget based on a 2767 sf addition for an estimated $1 million. I stressed the importance of understanding the Operating & Maintenance costs of the proposed addition and building only what the City and County can afford to operate and maintain.

At the request of DSGW and the Library Board, the County Board authorized the Library Board to proceed in seeking construction bids. There was discussion about how to proceed contractually and whether or not to use a Construction Manager, Owner's Representative or General Contractor, but no decision was made.  The County Board will need to make this decision in early March.

Copies of the Library Expansion project may be seen at the Library.

Office Furniture Request
Requests to purchase new office furniture were made and approved for the Attorney's Office, Planning & Zoning, and the Assessor's Office. The motion to purchase passed 3-1 with Commissioner Martinson opposed. (Commissioner Hall was absent from today's meeting and did not vote.) I really struggled with this decision and spent time yesterday looking at the existing furniture and talking with the department heads requesting the furniture. Ultlimately, I supported the decision based on the fact that the existing furniture in each office was either broken down or ergonomically dysfunctional. The furniture will be paid for out of the Building Fund.

Enterprise GIS Software License Agreement
The County Board passed a motion to renew the ESRI Enterprise GIS Software Agreement for (3) years. Danna MacKenzie and Kyle Oberg were able to negotiate with ESRI to reduce the price of this contract by 50% based on a cost analysis of actual software use vs. purchasing other options.

Blandin Minnesota Intelligent Rural Communities (MIRC) Projects
The County Board approved a motion to authorize the expenditure of the MIRC grant budget as approved by the Blandin Foundation. This grant includes $80,400 in project funds for (8) local projects selected to foster sustainable use and adoption of broadband in order to help create technologically and economically vital rural communities.

Allied Radio Matrix for emergency Response (ARMER) Radio System
Sheriff Mark Falk and Geo-Comm Representative Rey Freeman presented for approval the ARMER Paticipation Plan for Cook County; the County Board moved to approve the plan. The Plan will now move forward for approval from the NE MN Regional Advisory Committee (NE RAC), NE MN Regional Radio Board (NE RRB), and the State of MN Radio Board Operations and Technical Committee (OTC).

Project Summary from the Plan:

Cook County and the public safety entities within Cook County have developed a plan for the replacement of the existing VHF public safety radio systems currently used by those agencies. A comprehensive radio system analysis was conducted in 2009, which presented options for either continued VHF radio operations, or a migration to the 800 MHz ARMER system.

The primary goals of a new radio communications system are:
-Meet the FCC mandated migration to narrowband (12.5 KHZ) before the January 1, 2013 deadline.
-Provide improved radio system coverage and capacity.
-Replacement of the existing aging VHF radio system equipment.
-Provide expanded county and region wide interoperability between public safety agencies, whether utilizing VHF or 800 MHz.

After a thorough review of the options available, the County has determined that a migration to the 800 MHz ARMER radio system, utilizing the system's multi-use, digital and trunking tehnologies would best meet the county agencies radio communications goals, and will provide the required level of interoperability between public safety agencies in the region.

Funding for the implementation of the ARMER system within Cook County is being considered from local bonding, local levy and grants.

County Government 101 Training at AMC

2011-01-28T19:42:00.000-08:00

The conclusion of AMC's training for newly elected commissioners included a tour of Minnesota's State Capitol. Designed by Cass Gilbert and modeled after Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome, the unsupported marble dome is the second largest in the world, after Saint Peter's. This photo shows the Star of the North on the floor of the rotunda; the dome is under repair for water damage.

The Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC) sponsored a 2-day training for newly elected County Commissioners this week in St. Paul. As anticipated, the training was excellent and included sessions on Strategic Leadership, duties of a County Commissioner, Open Meeting Law & Parliamentary Procedure, County Government Structure, County Finances, Ethics in Government and the Legislative Process. The presenters were excellent, all of them with experience in their areas of expertise and most of them still serving as County Commissioners, County Administrators or County Coordinators.

If you go to the AMC website, you will learn that "The Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC) is a voluntary, non-partisan statewide organization that has assisted the state’s 87 counties in providing effective county governance to the people of Minnesota since 1909. The association works closely with the legislative and administrative branches of government in seeing that legislation and policies favorable to counties are enacted. AMC also provides educational programs, training, research and communications for county officials." I thought one Cook County Department Head expressed it perfectly today when she said, "AMC is us!"

AMC also provides an excellent way to share ideas and collaborate with County Commissioners from other counties. Counties working together can achieve more than a single county can do on its own. I appreciated the opportunity to meet with AMC's Executive Director Jeff Spartz, AMC Board Members, AMC Staff and Policy Analysts, Presenters & Trainers from other Counties, and all the other newly elected County Commissioners.

I found this training to be inspiring. As evidenced by the non-stop conversation in the room, there was a lot of passion, hope and eagerness from the newly elected. And, it's good to know that our County Board can find support from AMC and the other 86 counties as we face common challenges.

County Board Meeting and Towers Work Session

2011-01-25T21:39:00.000-08:00

Today was an extremely productive day for the County Board with our regularly scheduled meeting and a Work Session.

County Board of Commissioners Meeting

MN Small Cities Development Program Application Public Hearing
A Public Hearing was held this morning to provide information and receive public input and comments on Cook County's submission of a MN Small Cities Application to the MN Department of Employment and Economic Development on behalf of the Lake and Cook County Joint Housing Initiative. The application will request funds for owner occupied housing rehabilitation and commercial rehabilition. Nancy Grabko informed the Board that the Lake/Cook Joint Housing Initiative submitted a pre-application last Fall and was invited to submit a full proposal in February 2011. If successful, the program will fund some rehabilitation for 16 owner occupied homes (8 in Cook County) and 4 commercial properties. The County Board unanimously passed a resolution to support this proposal.

Gravel Permits
The County Board approved (4) Gravel Pit Permits, (3) with modifications as discussed at County Board Meeting on January 11.

Highway Department
County Board unanimously approved the replacement of the Mezzanine Stairway in the Highway Department garage. The temporary stairway was identified by OSHA as a serious hazard and violation of OSHA standard 1910.0024(d). Cost to replace is $6500 and will be paid for from the Building Fund.

County Board unanimously approved the Capital Purchase Request for (2) 2011 Mack Dump Trucks. This purchase is a scheduled replacement for existing plow trucks and was already approved for the 2011 Budget. The price of these trucks is approximately $10,000 higher than the estimate. David Betts and Russell Klegstad of the Highway Department will handle this overrun by the delay or elimination of purchasing other smaller equipment. The Highway Department does have an equipment replacement plan extending out 14 years.

Adam Harju joined the Highway Department and Sheriff Falk to request a special event permit application for a mountain bike race to be held on June 11. Cook County, through the Cook County Visitor's Bureau (CCVB), will be hosting the event in partnership with Lifetime Fitness. Lifetime Fitness is an industry leader in developing and running world class mountain biking and running races and will be paying all associated costs for traffic control and other county personnel expenses. Hosting this race will give Cook County extremely positive exposure to an anticipated 500 racers. Research shows that each racer typically brings an average of (2) other visitors with them. County Board unanimously approved the request for the permit application subject to road closure and traffic plan approvals.

Community Center Project
Tom Wacholz and Rob Barse of ORB Management gave an overview of the proposed Community Center Design Team Selection process. Both the Community Center Steering Committee and ORB Management have recommended Meyer Group/JLG Architects as the selected firms for the project. Meyer Group will be the architect of record. A draft agreement (Standard AIA Form) between Cook County and Meyer Group was presented and discussed. The County Board voted unanimously to approve Meyer Group as the selected architectural firm and authorized ORB Management (as the County's Owner's Representative and Construction Manager) and Tim Scannell to negotiate a contract for County Board approval. Meyer Group/JLG will also retain the following design firms: Structural Engineer: Northland Consulting, Mechanical/Electrical Engineer: Dunham Associations, Associate/Design Architect: JLG Architects, Interior Design: Isola Design, Landscape Architect: Appold Design, Food Service: DHA Associations, Aquatics: Water Technologies, Inc.

As directed by the County Board last week, the Community Center Steering Committee formalized themselves by creating ByLaws and electing a Chair and Secretary. The ByLaws were reviewed by the Committee and approved by the County Board. Sue Hakes and Diane Booth were elected as Committee Chair and Secretary respectively. Committee members are the existing members of the ad hoc committee. Both Diane Booth and I talked about the importance of continuing to keep the process open and transparent and the value of the Steering Committee as it represents stakeholders and reflects our community. It is important to note that all meetings are open to the public. Plans are being made for public participation and input once a preliminary design has been created.

ORB Management submitted a 1% Projects Consulting Proposal to the County Board for review and acceptance. The County Board discussed the proposal at length but made no decision. More information regarding payment options was requested. Generally, the Board agreed that ORB would provide value in their oversight of the 1% projects. Involving ORB could be done on a project by project basis.

Auditor-Treasurer
Braidy Powers presented the Cook County Investment Report and the Cook County Investment Policy for the Board's information. Board discussed the need to protect the County's cash reserves and investments from the State taking it to balance their budget.

Powers also reviewed the 2010 General Fund budget. Overall expenditures after some adjustments were at 104.3%. Additional adjustment for accruals will be made during the audit process.

Towers Work Session
The County Board held its first work session; the topic was Communications Towers in Cook County. This work session was requested by several department heads including: Sheriff Mark Falk, Attorney Tim Scannell, Danna MacKenzie, Mary Black, Tim Nelson. Also in attendance were Duane Ege, Jeff Nemitz and several members of the general public. This work session resulted in identifying several issues surrounding communications towers and a need for better tower management. A small work group was formed to explore creating a job description to meet the Administrative and Technical needs for tower management. The Communications/E911 Committee will be working on tower issues in the future. County Board representatives on that committee are Jan Hall and Sue Hakes.

Maintenance Department and Public Health & Human Services Tours

2011-01-20T18:30:00.000-08:00

Maintenance Department
Today I met with Brian Silence, Head of the Maintenance Department. Brian gave me an overview of the Maintenance Department's responsibilities which includes 16 buildings (including Highway Department facilities, the Community Center, Historical Society, tower buildings and Courthouse), 4 cemeteries, the truck and car fleet, and boat landings. We toured the mechanical rooms where I was able to see some of the building's air handling, electrical, water heater and boiler systems. We also had a general discussion about overall workspace in the courthouse and budget. It was interesting to see "behind the scenes" of the Courthouse and tour areas not typically seen.

Public Health and Human Services (PHHS)
Yesterday, I met with Sue Futterer, Director of Public Health & Human Services (PHHS). This Department is complex, far-reaching, and likely touches the lives of most Cook County residents in one way or another.

In general, the County is responsible for delivering mandated human services on behalf of the State. Sue gave me an overview of Cook County's services by introducing me to the Staff and letting me ask questions about their work. Click here for some interesting facts about Minnesota's Human Services System.

Because I am the County Board liaison to PHHS, Sue and I will be meeting on at least a monthly basis. Jan Parish (PHHS Finance), Sue Futterer and I have scheduled a 2nd meeting for Jan to begin to explain the PHHS funding sources, expenses and overall budget to me.

Human Services and County Board Meetings

2011-01-18T20:53:00.000-08:00

The County Board meets on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Tuesdays of every month at 8:30 am. On the 3rd Tuesday, the Human Services Board meets from 8:30 - 10:00 am as part of the County Board meeting. These meetings are open to the public; County Board Meeting agendas and minutes are posted on the Cook County website.

Human Services Board Meeting

The Human Services Board consists of all members of the County Board plus (2) representatives from the Public Health & Human Services Advisory (PHHS) Committee. The PHHS Advisory Committee Reps are Diane Fitzgerald and Carla LaPointe, Chair and Vice Chair of the PHHS Advisory Committee.

I was pleased to be elected Chair of the Human Services Board; Jan Hall was elected Vice-Chair. My role as the Chair complements my being the liaison to the Public Health and Human Services Department and other related committee assignments (North Shore Collaborative, AEOA, Arrowhead Health Alliance, PHHS Advisory Board). Each of the Human Services related committees is assigned to a County Commissioner and reported on monthly.

Julie Myrhe, Community Health Board Director, reported on the revised recommended language for the State Community Health Services Advisory Committee (SCHSAC).

Jan Parish, Income Maintenance and Fiscal Supervisor, gave a Financial Report for PHHS.

Sue Futterer, Director, provided the Board with 2011 Legislative Initiatives as recommended by the Minnesota Association of County Social Services Administrators (MACSSA) which basically include a) simplifying human service programs, b) aligning funding with outcomes for vulnerable populations, and c) investing in technology to assure efficient administration of publicly funded human services. Sue also gave her Alternative Work Site 4th Quarter Report.

There were several Board Actions taken, the most significant being a commitment to be involved in the Region 3 Human Services Redesign Income Maintenance Project. Other actions taken included approving several Purchase of Service Agreements between Cook County and various service providers.

County Board Meeting

A couple of changes were made to the Agenda. The annual review of Conditional Use Permits for designated gravel pits was moved to next week's County Board Meeting (1/25/11). And, Tim Scannell requested the meeting be closed for ~5 minutes for Board to discuss a threatened litigation.

Open Forum
Two members of the Public opted to address the Board during the Open Forum. Mary Manning requested the Board include the Public in discussions and decision-making regarding the communications towers; she specifically noted the Hovland tower. Bob LaMettry addressed the Board with concerns about the speed in which the 1% Sales Tax funds are allocated and suggested the Board move forward with careful thought toward future needs for infrastructure projects. He also noted Arrowhead Electric Cooperative's proposal to the Fiber Optic Commission for $1.8M to fund up to $400/residence for in-home wiring to connect fiber optics and suggested that the Board consider low interest or no interest loans for this purpose.

Community Center Project Update from ORB Management
Tom Wacholz, President of ORB Management, gave a detailed overview of the overall project process for the Community Center. ORB Management is the Construction Manager representing Cook County in the Community Center project. Wacholz reviewed the project directory, organizational chart, master activity schedule, stakeholders, users, interested parties, project history, guiding principles, and communication tools for the project.

Wacholz then detailed the solicitation process for the design team and the design team selection process. 14 firms requested the Request for Proposal (RFP) with 6 firms submitting proposals. At next week's County Board Meeting, ORB Management and the Community Center Steering Committee will be making a recommendation to the County Board for a single firm to be the Architect of Record for the project. A decision from the County Board is anticipated January 25.

To streamline the process of the Community Center, the County Board unamimously approved (2) motions: 1) The County Board directed the Community Center Steering Committee to formalize the existing ad hoc committee to include between 15-18 members, elect a chair and secretary, and adopt organizationl documents and bylaws, and 2) The County Board will hold regularly scheduled 1% Project worksessions for project managers (or advocates) to meet with the County Board to update the Board and receive direction from the Board

Lastly, Wacholz outlined the design phase for the project which will include soliciting input from stakeholders, staff, and the general public.

County Board Worksessions
The Board agreed to set aside time each month from 1:30-3:00 pm the 4th Tuesday of each month for Worksessions. The first worksession will be held January 25 regarding communications/tower issues and was requested by Sheriff Mark Falk, IS Director Danna MacKenzie, Attorney Tim Scannell, County Engineer David Betts, Planning Director Tim Nelson. Other possible Worksession Topics include Budget, 1% Project Planning & Prioritizing, Broadband, others as necessary. These worksessions will give the Board and Department Heads an opportunity to plan and problem solve for some of the more complex issues facing the County.

More Good Info from the Department Heads

2011-01-13T17:22:00.000-08:00

I had another very productive day at the Courthouse in my on-going effort to learn more about the business of Cook County.

Planning & Zoning
Tim Nelson, Director of Planning & Zoning, and I spent the better part of the morning discussing the work of the Office of Planning & Zoning (OPZ) Department. The OPZ is responsible for land use ordinances, subdivision approvals, platting, conditional use permits and variances, building permits, septic and well inspections, solid waste management, recycling and more. Tim Nelson and I both serve on the NE Waste Advisory Committee (NEWAC)--a cooperative advisory council of (7) area counties and the Western Lake Superior Sanitary District (WLSSD) and the County's Waste Solid Waste Committee.

Information Systems Management (IT/MIS/GIS)
Danna MacKenzie, Director of Information Systems Management (ISM), walked me through the various functions and responsibilities that make up the Information Systems Management (ISM) Department. ISM works closely with all County Departments to ensure the hardware (computers, printers, scanners, telephones, copiers, etc.) and software systems (Tax Programs, CAMA, Document Imaging, etc.) are operational and meeting department needs. ISM is also responsible for developing the geographic information systems that includes web mapping, parcel inventory, E-911 location services, etc.)

Danna also gave me an overview of the current broadband projects in Cook County, including the Arrowhead Electric Broadband Project and the Northeastern Services Cooperative Project. I will be serving on the Fiber Optic Commission which typically meets monthly. I am also the liaison to the Information Systems Management Department.

Board of Commissioners Meeting---First Regular Meeting of 2011

2011-01-11T19:16:00.000-08:00

Today was the first regular meeting of the Cook County Board of Commissioners; highlights of the meeting are below. A complete copy of the meeting agenda and minutes will be posted on the County's website at http://www.co.cook.mn.us/.

Sheriff's Response Unit (SRU) Snowmobiles
The County Board unanimously approved Sheriff Falk's proposal to transfer ownership of (3) older snowmobiles (1990, 1991, 1994) that are no longer in use by the SRU to local volunteer fire departments and/or first responder units. The first transfer will be to the Gunflint Trail Volunteer Fire Department (GTVFD) for rescue missions within their response area. The other (2) snowmobiles will be transferred based on interest and need.

Annual Review of Permitted Gravel Pits
At its December 8, 2010 meeting the Cook County Planning Commission reviewed (13) gravel permits under consideration for renewal for the 2011 calendar year. The Planning Commission recommended 10 of those permits for renewal without modification; the remaining (3) permit renewals were also recommended for permit renewal, but only with some modifications. After some discussion, the County Board approved (9) of the requested permits without change and requested that the Office of Planning and Zoning work with Tim Scannell on the appropriate corrective language for the remaining (4) permits. These (4) permits will be reviewed at the next County Board meeting.

Conditional Use Permit on Caribou Lake
The County Board approved a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to allow the extended use of a recreational vehicle for habitation on property adjacent to Caribou Lake. The Planning Commission recommended this approval with (8) conditions, including limiting the hours of generator operation to between the hours of 8:00 am and 7:00 pm. Bill Lane (OPZ) informed the Board that the noise from the generator was the only real concern raised by the neighbors. I made a motion to approve the CUP as proposed by the Planning Commission, but it died for lack of a 2nd. After some discussion, a second motion was made which included extending the hours of generator operation to 10:00 pm and a requirement to build an insulated box around the generator. This motion passed 3-2 with Jim Johnson and Sue Hakes opposed; Commissioner Johnson and I were both in support of the Planning Commission recommendation without modification.

County Assessor/Land Commissioner Issues
County Assessor Mary Black requested the Board support the Minnesota Association of County Land Commissioners (MACLC) recommendation to move the administration of the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program from the Department of Natural Resources to the Department of Revenue. The County Board voted unanimously to support this change with a letter from Chair Jim Johnson.

Mary Black, with support from ACMU Vice-President Chuck Silence, presented a draft letter from the Arrowhead Coalition of Multiple Use (ACMU) to US Representative Chip Cravaack requesting that the procedures for developing and implementing forest plans, or modifying existing plans be redesigned for improved efficiency, consistency and cost effectiveness.  The County Board agreed unanimously to write a companion letter to Rep. Cravaack in support of streamlining the existing process.

Appointments to Boards and Commissions
The County Board reviewed the Board and Commission assignments making the following changes:
1.  The Broad Band Task Force is obsolete and has been replaced by the Fiber Optic Commission.  Of course this was extremely disappointing to me as I had been named the County Board representative on the Broad Band Task Force. Alternatively, I was named as the alternate to Bruce Martinson on the Fiber Optic Commission. My intention is to be very involved in the FOC as the opportunity for Broadband evolves in Cook County. Bruce and I agreed to work together positively on this important Commission. 2. The County Board also recommended me as the replacement for Bob Fenwick on the Superior Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) as authorized under Title II of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (Public Law 110-343), so I will be making application for that position.

There are still several Board openings for Citizen participation. If you are interested in becoming a member of the Airport Advisory Commission, Community Center Board, NE MN Housing Consortium Advisory Committee, Planning Commission or the Public Health and Human Services Advisory Committee, please contact Braidy Powers at 387-3646 or braidy.powers@co.cook.mn.us.

See complete list of County Board and Commission Assignments.

1 % Project Updates
Commissioner Fritz Sobanja provided an update on the Grand Marais Library expansion project including the DSGW Architectural Firm's preliminary rendition of the building exterior and interior floorplans.

As a member of Community Center ad hoc Committee, I reported that the proposed contract to hire an architectural firm for the Community Center is being prepared by County Attorney Tim Scannell and will be presented to the County Board for review at the 1/18/2011 County Board Meeting.

I suggested that the One Percent Coordination Committee (Hakes, Martinson, Tim Scannell, Braidy Powers) meet to discuss the overall One Percent budget, projects with preliminary approval, projects not yet approved, legislative requirements, project prioritization, schedule, budget, etc. and present to the County Board for discussion in a Work Session to be scheduled. The County Board supported this action and Bruce Martinson offered to schedule the first meeting with the One Percent Coordination Committee.

Public Input at County Board Meetings
In a sincere effort to increase and improve opportunities for Public Input at County Board Meetings, the Board had 4 yes votes (Hakes, Hall, Johnson, Martinson) to add an "Open Forum" to every County Board meeting for a 6-month trial basis. Commissioner Sobanja abstained from voting. During this Open Forum, the public is encouraged to address the County Board with any question, concern or idea related to County Business that they might have.  During the Open Forum period, the County Board will listen and perhaps ask clarifying questions. Comments will be limited to 5 minutes per person. With Board approval, issues raised during the Open Forum may be added to the existing or future agenda as appropriate.

I advocated for the addition of this Open Forum because it guarantees the Public an opportunity to address the full County Board and allows members of the Public the freedom to address issues which may or may not be on any Board agenda. It should be noted that the Open Forum is designed to enhance public participation. Public participation during the regular portion of the County Board meeting will remain as it is. Generally the County Board is liberal in receiving Public input at regular County Board Meetings, but it is technically at the discretion of the Board Chair to call on members of the Public. The Open Forum will guarantee opportunities for the public to raise issues. Coming before the County Board in person is a powerful way for the Public to address the Commissioners. I'm hopeful that Cook County residents and taxpayers will take advantage of the Open Forum as they need to.

Reform

2011-01-10T20:05:00.000-08:00

Praying for the dead and the wounded of Saturday's tragic shooting in Tucsan. Holding their families, friends, and community in my heart.

Searching inside for better ways to reach out, talk with, understand and work with those different from me.

More Getting Up to Speed

2011-01-06T15:53:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy, productive week and it's only Thursday! Immediately after Tuesday's first County Board Meeting of the year, I attended my first Advisory Board Meeting--Public Health & Human Services Advisory Committee. Updates from the Human Services provider organizations, as well as agency reports were an excellent overview for me as a new member to the Board.

And, in an effort to get up to speed with the various departments and functions of Cook County, I met with several more departments. I appreciate the willingness and time being taken by the various department heads to give me a broad understanding of their work, personnel and challenges.

County Department Tours
County Attorney Tim Scannell was gracious enough to spend a couple of hours with me yesterday to discuss the Office of the County Attorney's roles and responsibilities, both criminal and civil. We also discussed the County Attorney's relationship to the County Board, sub-committees, the City of Grand Marais, and the public.

Sherriff Mark Falk and I met this morning for several hours regarding the Sherriff's Department and its operations. Sherriff Falk also gave me an overview on the NE Regional Radio Board and the ARMER project. I will be the delegate to that board, with Sheriff Falk as alternate, so it was very helpful to learn more about ARMER and other communication challenges faced by law enforcement.

As a way to learn more about the Cook County Soil & Water Board, District Manager Kerri Fabius invited me to attend this afternoon's Cook County Soil & Water regular board meeting. It was a good meeting to attend with a Soil Survey Report Presentation from USDA-NRCS Scientist Roger Risley.

And, last Monday, I attended a reception for Judge Michael Cuzzo in the Cook County Courtroom. The event was a comfortable way to meet Cook County's newly elected Judge as well as others working in Court Administration and related areas in Cook County.

Taking the Oath of Office

2011-01-04T18:27:00.000-08:00

I was honored to take the Oath of Office for the position of District 3 Commissioner at today's Special Organizational Meeting of the Cook County Board of Commissioners. Also taking the Oath of Office were Commissioner Jan Hall (District 1), Commissioner Bruce Martinson (District 5), Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers, Attorney Tim Scannell, Recorder Dusty Nelms and Sheriff Mark Falk.

County Board Chair and Vice Chair
The first order of business today was to elect a County Board Chair and Vice Chair; Jim Johnson and Jan Hall were unanimously elected to those positions, respectively.

Official County Publications
The Cook County News Herald and the Cook County Web Page were designated as the official newspaper and publications of the County.

Citizen Boards & Commissions
The Board of Commissioners is seeking citizens to serve on several Boards and Commissions. Contact Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers at 387-3640 or braidy.powers@co.cook.mn.us with interest in serving on any of the following: Airport Advisory Committee, Extension Committee, Library Board, or Planning Commission.

2011 Commissioner Appointments to Boards, Commissions and Temporary Committees
A significant portion of today's Board Meeting was spent assigning the Commissioners to the over 100 Boards, Commissions and Committees we will serve on throughout 2011 which meet anywhere from monthly to annually throughout Northern Minnesota and in St. Paul. The assignments will be compiled for another review at next week's County Board Meeting; once finalized, I'll post that list.

2011 Commissioner Departmental Liaison Assignments
County Department Liaison Assignments were agreed to as follows:

Sue Hakes: Public Health/Human Services, Information Systems Management
Bruce Martinson: Auditor/Treasurer, Recorder, Highway Department
Jim Johnson: Attorney, Assessor/Land Commissioner, Court Administration
Janice Hall: Personnel, Sheriff, Planning & Zoning
Fritz Sobanja: Extension, Community Center, Maintenance

Open Forum and Work Session Discussion
A discussion was held regarding the possibility of adding a Public Comment period to County Board Meetings. I fully support this addition to future agendas. Providing an opportunity for the Public to address the Board with questions, concerns or ideas is an excellent way for the County Board to hear from the Public and begin meaningful dialogue.

Work sessions, in addition to the regularly scheduled Board meetings, were also discussed. I fully support holding work sessions for the Board to discuss and process some of the more complex issues that come before us. Examples of such issues that I would like to see discussed in a work session would include: establishing County Priorities, One Percent Sales Tax prioritization and management, budget, team building and the Economic Development Authority (EDA). The addition of Public Comment and Work Sessions to the County's process of doing business will be discussed again.

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T12:18:00.000-08:00

Wishing everybody a Happy and Safe Year in 2011!

My term as Mayor of Grand Marais officially ends Monday, January 3. On January 4, 2011, I will take the oath of office for District 3 Commissioner. I am looking forward to serving Cook County.

Getting Up to Speed!

2010-12-07T19:06:00.000-08:00

I've been trying to wisely use the time between winning the election on November 2 and being sworn in on January 4. In an effort to get up to speed as much as possible, I've been attending the County Board meetings on a regular basis.
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County Department Tours & Training
Last week I met with David Betts and Russell Klegstad of the County Highway Department for a department overview. I also had the good fortune to meet several of the Highway Department personnel, tour the office and garage facilities and take a closer look at the equipment.

Today I met with Braidy Powers, Cook County Auditor-Treasurer. Braidy and I discussed the overall responsibilities of the Auditor-Treasurer's Department. Braidy gave me a tour of the department and a brief explanation of what each member of the department is responsible for.

Jim Wiinanen conducted an Emergency Response Training for Elected Officials, which I attended. During this training we learned about our individual roles, and also how the various County departments and agencies need to respond and work together in emergency situations. As Mayor, I've already received some of this training and information, but it's extremely important to stay current in understanding our roles so we are prepared should the need arise.

Touring these departments was extremely helpful to me as an incoming Commissioner, and I appreciate the time taken by David, Russell, Braidy and Jim to help get me up to speed. I hope to meet with all of the Department Heads in the coming weeks as their work schedules allow and am in the process of contacting them now.

County Government 101 Training
On January 26-27, I'll be attending a 2-day training sponsored by the Association of Minnesota Counties entitled, "County Government 101: An Essential Conference For All Newly Elected County Officials". This conference is designed for all newly-elected county officials to learn the basics of county government and how to get started in our new positions. I'm really looking forward to this training session in St. Paul.

Election Results

2010-11-05T22:29:00.000-07:00

On November 2, Sue Hakes was elected Cook County Commissioner for District 3. Sue is the current Mayor of Grand Marais; her 2-year mayoral term expires at the end of 2010. She will begin serving her 4 year term on the County Board in early January 2011.

Click here for local election results.