Board Chair Jan Hall and Commissioners Heidi Doo-Kirk, Garry Gamble, Sue Hakes and Bruce Martinson were all present at the June 10 County Board Meeting. Also present were County Administrator Jay Kieft, Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers, Attorney Jeanne Smith, and Administrative Support Bev Wolke.
Consent Agenda
The Consent Agenda including an Amendment to Subsurface Sewage Treatment System Loan Policies and Procedures, Planning Commission Appointment and Claims was approved. Charles LaBoda was apointed to the Planning Commission.
Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to address the County Board.
Management Information Systems
The County Board approved the purchase of (5) Cisco switches at $20,181.59 to support the County facilities Wide Area Network (WAN) and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone systems.
Information/Communications Director, Rena Rogers, presented the MIS Infrastructure Improvement Program Summary, a series of improvement projects that will enable County government to fully realize the potential of Broadband Connectivity. Phase I is currently underway and consists of a Firewall/Security Monitoring Project and the New Server Room/Courthouse Re-cabling Project. Phase 2 will extend Broadband to other County facilities in Grand Marais.
County Highway Department--PUBLIC HEARINGS SCHEDULED
The County Board scheduled (2) dates for Public Hearings on Intersection Lighting and Paved Shoulders and Rumble Strips.
The Cook County Highway Department has received a federal Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) grant for 2015 to provide intersection lighting at the following intersections:
1. CSAH 8 and CSAH 12 (2 lights)
2. CSAH 7 and CSAH 6 (1 light)
3. CSAH 7 and CR 45 (1 light)
Downcast cutoff lights will be used to minimize the spread of the light.
The Cook County Highway Department has received a federal Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) grant for 2015 to provide 2-foot paved shoulders with edgeline rumblestrips on the Gunflint Trail from the city limits near the water tower to the intersection with CSAH 8.
The County Board has scheduled public hearings on both of these matters as follows:
Monday, June 14 at 7:00 pm in the Commissioner's Room at the Courthouse
Tuesday, June 15 at 10:30 am in the Commissioner's Room at the Courthouse
Th public is encouraged to attend either or both of these public hearings to provide input for consideration by the County Board. Let your voice be heard.
Emergency Management
The Board approved a Memorandum of Agreement between Cook County and the Conservations Corps of Minnesota and Iowa. An agreement with Conservation Corps of Minnesota and Iowa would be for services during emergencies and disasters, but can also be used for routine trail work without the need to bid projects out. It allows the County to move more quickly when it needs to.
The Board approved the public notice of a proposal by the Firewise Committee to use the $28,922.22 of Title III funds for the following purposes: 1) Search and Rescue in the amount of $5,000, and 2) compensation for the Firewise Coordinator in the amount of $23,922.22.
The Board approved up to $10,000 to move and set the old Gunflint Trail Volunteer Fire Department Hall (GTVFD) #3 as the mid-trail Search and Rescue Building at the GTVFD Hall #1 Poplar Lake site.
Budget Process Changes, Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers
Braidy Powers has been contemplating changes to the budget process with the goal of improving management and department head understanding of their roles, a smoother process and better predictability.
In addition to changing the date of the budget hearings, Powers is suggesting a general review of department budgets by the Auditor (Powers) and County Administrator Jay Kieft before the County Board budget hearings. Most significantly, Powers is proposing the creation of a Finance Committee consisting of one or two County Commissioners, County Administrator, Auditor and Financial Coordinator. It is believed that more upfront work on the budget will enable greater operating efficiencies through the year.
The County Board is generally supportive of the changes, but asked for clarity on the powers and obligations of the proposed Finance Committee before any decisions will be made.
The Board approved the renewal of Life Insurance plan with MN Life and the Long Term Disability Plan with Madison National; both were low quote.
Highway 61 Centerline Rumble Strips
Commissioner Hakes happily acknowledged the June 5 MN Department of Transportation Press Release that stated in part, " MnDOT will also fill in all of the centerline rumble strips in Cook County except those located north of Grand Portage where there aren't any adjacent homes." MnDOT District 1 acting traffic engineer Jim Miles also noted, "Considering this (housing density), and the mix of tourist and local traffic, which leads to increased passing an driving over the centerline rumble strips, we decided to fill them in."
Hakes commended the Public for making their concerns about the Centerline Rumble Strips known directly to MnDOT and the County Board. It made a huge difference and resulted directly in the positive action taken by MnDOT.
Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC) District One Meeting
Cook County is hosting the Spring AMC District One Meeting on June 12-13. In addition to AMC business, Cook County will host a tour of the YMCA and a tour of the Security enhancements made to County facilities.
Closed Session: Attorney-Client Privileged
The meeting was closed and the Board engaged in an attorney-client privileged closed session.
Meeting Minutes
A copy of the official meeting minutes may be obtained by calling the County Administrator's Office at 218 387 3602 or by going to the Cook County website. A video of this meeting in its entirety may be viewed on Boreal.TV.
Showing posts with label Law Enforcement. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Law Enforcement. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
March 11 County Board Meeting: One Watershed, Property Classification, Forest Service Roads
Board Chair Jan Hall and Commissioners Heidi Doo-Kirk, Garry Gamble, Sue Hakes and Bruce Martinson were all present for today's County Board meeting. Also present were County Administrator Jay Kieft, Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers, Assistant County Attorney Molly Hicken, and Administrative Support Bev Wolke.
Public Comment
No member of the public came before the County Board.
Office of Planning & Zoning (OPZ)
The Board addressed several issues presented by OPZ Director, Tim Nelson:
1. The Board adopted the Cook County Septic Ordinance Number 58, acknowledging the successful process between local government, the MPCA, and concerned/involved citizens.
2. The Board authorized (4-1 Hakes opposed) to move forward with the consulting team of John Powers, Robert Bruce and Tony Kroska to develop a work plan and budget for updating the County's Comprehensive Land Use Guide Plan.
3. The Recycling Center will extend its hours on Tuesdays by opening at 9:00 am. This is in response to the public's request for earlier drop off times.
4. The Board accepted the Solid Waste Committee recommendation to change vendors for waste electronics collection based on lower costs to the public. The County will contract with The Retrofit Company and pay the administrative collection fees; the public will NOT pay a fee for dropping off electronic devices.
5. The Board supported attendance by the Planning Commision, Board of Adjustment, County Attorney and (2) Commissioners at the MCIT Land Use Legal Work Shop in St. Cloud and authorized payment of travel expenses. Commissioners Doo-Kirk and Gamble will respresent the County Board.
6. The Board approved the annual renewals for the solid waste hauler licenses.
Law Enforcement
The County Board authorized (4-1 Martinson opposed) Sheriff Falk to purchase (2) new squads and the necessary equipment to outfit them at a cost of ~$97,000. Funds for this purchase have been allocated and previously approved in the 2014 budget and vendor quoted state contract pricing.
One Watershed, One Plan
Water Plan Coordinator, Ilena Berg, provided the Board with information about the One Watershed, One Plan pilot project. The Board passed a resolution to support Lake and Cook County SWCDS in their pursuit of their proposed joint One Watershed, One Plan pilot project.
Vehicle Needs
The Board authorized Maintenance Director Brian Silence to obtain vehicle quotes for a car needed by the Assessor's Office.
Resort Property Classifications (MN Statute 273.13 Subdivision 25)
At the request of the County Board, Assessor Betty Schulz provided information regarding Class 4c Seasonal Recreation property and how it is determined.
Jim Boyd, Cook County Chamber of Commerce Director, along with Dennis Rysdahl (Owner AmericInn) and Bill Hubbard (Owner Cliff Dweller) came before the Board requesting support for changing the statutory language defining Class 4c Seasonal Recreational properties in Minnesota. Boyd identified (7) Cook County lodging properties that have been inadvertently receiving the tax benefits from being classified in error as Class 4c (Best Western, Aspen Lodge, Spruceglen, Shoreline, Aspen Inn, Cliff Dweller, AmericInn, Mountain Inn). Correction of this error has resulted in significant tax increases for these (7) properties. (Auditor Braidy Powers cautioned it is difficult to determine the exact increase, but roughly estimated it to be $162,000 in total.)
Commissioner Bruce Martinson made a motion to change the statutory language as requested, making it quite easy to be classified as 4c seasonal recreational. Commissioner Gamble supported the motion and it passed 4-1 with Commissioner Hakes opposed.
Discussion: I opposed this motion because taxpayers that have been paying their fair share of taxes are being asked to subsidize the taxes of those who have not been paying the taxes intended by State Legislation. The reduction of property taxes for these lodging establishments will result in an equivalent increase in property taxes for all business and property owners in Cook County, a burden that has already been carried for several years. According to Auditor Braidy Powers, the City of Grand Marais taxpayers will bear the brunt of this shift. I also opposed this motion because nearly all of the businesses being asked to carry this burden are seasonal, not just the (7) requesting the tax relief.
Cook County Local Energy Project
The County Board denied (4-1 Hakes opposed) a request from CCLEP for $4000 to support a part-time CCLEP Coordinator. The County Board contributed $4000 to CCLEP last year.
Superior National Forest Road Maintenance Funding
District Ranger Nancy Larson and District Ranger Kurt Steele supported Civil Engineer John Olson in his presentation on Forest Service Maintenance and funding. Forest Services roads and bridges are being lost. The County Board passed a motion to support Federal funding for maintaining these roads.
NE Minnesota Transportation Planning
Todd Campbell, MnDOT District One, and Jon Mason, ARDC Transportation Planner, presented an overview of MnDOT District One projects for 2014-2018. Mason also overviews the Transportation Alternatives Program for community based projects that enhance cultural, historic and environmental aspects of our transportation infrastructure.
Cook County Community YMCA
Duluth YMCA CEO, Chris Francis, and Cook County Branch Executive Director, Emily Marshall, came before the County Board with an overview of the 2013 Budget and 2014 Year-To-Date budget. Individual memberships are currently at 1361, which has resulted in a significant increase in projected revenues. However, due to the increase in membership, increase in propane costs, and start up costs, expenses have also gone up. Overall, Francis and Marshall are extremely pleased with the start up financial results, but reminded the Board that it is too early to make any year-end projections. The County Board acknowledged their good work.
Francis also said the Y is exploring the feasibility of providing Licensed Day Care and will likely come to the Board with ideas later this year.
Public Health and Human Services (PHHS)
The Board accepted a staff resignation as presented by PHHS Director Sue Futterer, and authorized Futterer to begin the process of filling this position.
Auditor-Treasurer, Braidy Powers
Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers brought several items of business before the Board.
1. The Board approved the Claims.
2. The Board approved the 2013 audit engagement letter and authorized the chair and county auditor to sign it.
3. Powers provided a chart showing County investment earnings since the year 2000. Some years showed earnings in excess of the budget estimate, while other years showed earnings below the budget estimates. Accurately anticipating the financial markets is difficult. Powers noted that the County invests conservatively.
4. The Planning and Zoning Department has set a PUBLIC HEARING for April 22, 2014 at 10:00 am to consider changes to fees charged by the Office of Planning and Zoning.
5. The Board approved hiring Karen Blackburn for the Financial Coordinator position being vacated by John Peterson in April.
Meeting Minutes
A copy of the approved minutes for this meeting will be made available on the Cook County Website or by contacting the County Adminsitrator's Office at 218/387-3602. A video of today's meeting will be made available at Boreal.TV
Public Comment
No member of the public came before the County Board.
Office of Planning & Zoning (OPZ)
The Board addressed several issues presented by OPZ Director, Tim Nelson:
1. The Board adopted the Cook County Septic Ordinance Number 58, acknowledging the successful process between local government, the MPCA, and concerned/involved citizens.
2. The Board authorized (4-1 Hakes opposed) to move forward with the consulting team of John Powers, Robert Bruce and Tony Kroska to develop a work plan and budget for updating the County's Comprehensive Land Use Guide Plan.
3. The Recycling Center will extend its hours on Tuesdays by opening at 9:00 am. This is in response to the public's request for earlier drop off times.
4. The Board accepted the Solid Waste Committee recommendation to change vendors for waste electronics collection based on lower costs to the public. The County will contract with The Retrofit Company and pay the administrative collection fees; the public will NOT pay a fee for dropping off electronic devices.
5. The Board supported attendance by the Planning Commision, Board of Adjustment, County Attorney and (2) Commissioners at the MCIT Land Use Legal Work Shop in St. Cloud and authorized payment of travel expenses. Commissioners Doo-Kirk and Gamble will respresent the County Board.
6. The Board approved the annual renewals for the solid waste hauler licenses.
Law Enforcement
The County Board authorized (4-1 Martinson opposed) Sheriff Falk to purchase (2) new squads and the necessary equipment to outfit them at a cost of ~$97,000. Funds for this purchase have been allocated and previously approved in the 2014 budget and vendor quoted state contract pricing.
One Watershed, One Plan
Water Plan Coordinator, Ilena Berg, provided the Board with information about the One Watershed, One Plan pilot project. The Board passed a resolution to support Lake and Cook County SWCDS in their pursuit of their proposed joint One Watershed, One Plan pilot project.
Vehicle Needs
The Board authorized Maintenance Director Brian Silence to obtain vehicle quotes for a car needed by the Assessor's Office.
Resort Property Classifications (MN Statute 273.13 Subdivision 25)
At the request of the County Board, Assessor Betty Schulz provided information regarding Class 4c Seasonal Recreation property and how it is determined.
Jim Boyd, Cook County Chamber of Commerce Director, along with Dennis Rysdahl (Owner AmericInn) and Bill Hubbard (Owner Cliff Dweller) came before the Board requesting support for changing the statutory language defining Class 4c Seasonal Recreational properties in Minnesota. Boyd identified (7) Cook County lodging properties that have been inadvertently receiving the tax benefits from being classified in error as Class 4c (Best Western, Aspen Lodge, Spruceglen, Shoreline, Aspen Inn, Cliff Dweller, AmericInn, Mountain Inn). Correction of this error has resulted in significant tax increases for these (7) properties. (Auditor Braidy Powers cautioned it is difficult to determine the exact increase, but roughly estimated it to be $162,000 in total.)
Commissioner Bruce Martinson made a motion to change the statutory language as requested, making it quite easy to be classified as 4c seasonal recreational. Commissioner Gamble supported the motion and it passed 4-1 with Commissioner Hakes opposed.
Discussion: I opposed this motion because taxpayers that have been paying their fair share of taxes are being asked to subsidize the taxes of those who have not been paying the taxes intended by State Legislation. The reduction of property taxes for these lodging establishments will result in an equivalent increase in property taxes for all business and property owners in Cook County, a burden that has already been carried for several years. According to Auditor Braidy Powers, the City of Grand Marais taxpayers will bear the brunt of this shift. I also opposed this motion because nearly all of the businesses being asked to carry this burden are seasonal, not just the (7) requesting the tax relief.
Cook County Local Energy Project
The County Board denied (4-1 Hakes opposed) a request from CCLEP for $4000 to support a part-time CCLEP Coordinator. The County Board contributed $4000 to CCLEP last year.
Superior National Forest Road Maintenance Funding
District Ranger Nancy Larson and District Ranger Kurt Steele supported Civil Engineer John Olson in his presentation on Forest Service Maintenance and funding. Forest Services roads and bridges are being lost. The County Board passed a motion to support Federal funding for maintaining these roads.
NE Minnesota Transportation Planning
Todd Campbell, MnDOT District One, and Jon Mason, ARDC Transportation Planner, presented an overview of MnDOT District One projects for 2014-2018. Mason also overviews the Transportation Alternatives Program for community based projects that enhance cultural, historic and environmental aspects of our transportation infrastructure.
Cook County Community YMCA
Duluth YMCA CEO, Chris Francis, and Cook County Branch Executive Director, Emily Marshall, came before the County Board with an overview of the 2013 Budget and 2014 Year-To-Date budget. Individual memberships are currently at 1361, which has resulted in a significant increase in projected revenues. However, due to the increase in membership, increase in propane costs, and start up costs, expenses have also gone up. Overall, Francis and Marshall are extremely pleased with the start up financial results, but reminded the Board that it is too early to make any year-end projections. The County Board acknowledged their good work.
Francis also said the Y is exploring the feasibility of providing Licensed Day Care and will likely come to the Board with ideas later this year.
Public Health and Human Services (PHHS)
The Board accepted a staff resignation as presented by PHHS Director Sue Futterer, and authorized Futterer to begin the process of filling this position.
Auditor-Treasurer, Braidy Powers
Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers brought several items of business before the Board.
1. The Board approved the Claims.
2. The Board approved the 2013 audit engagement letter and authorized the chair and county auditor to sign it.
3. Powers provided a chart showing County investment earnings since the year 2000. Some years showed earnings in excess of the budget estimate, while other years showed earnings below the budget estimates. Accurately anticipating the financial markets is difficult. Powers noted that the County invests conservatively.
4. The Planning and Zoning Department has set a PUBLIC HEARING for April 22, 2014 at 10:00 am to consider changes to fees charged by the Office of Planning and Zoning.
5. The Board approved hiring Karen Blackburn for the Financial Coordinator position being vacated by John Peterson in April.
Meeting Minutes
A copy of the approved minutes for this meeting will be made available on the Cook County Website or by contacting the County Adminsitrator's Office at 218/387-3602. A video of today's meeting will be made available at Boreal.TV
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
Human Services and County Board Meetings: PHHS Staffing, Moving Matters, 0% Levy Increase and Welcome County Administrator Jay Kieft!
Human Services Board Meeting
Human Services Board Chair, Sue Hakes, along with Board Members Heidi Doo-Kirk, Garry Gamble, Jan Hall, Carla LaPointe, Jerry Lilja, and Bruce Martinson were all present for today's meeting. Also present were County Administrator Jay Kieft, PHHS Director Sue Futterer, Fiscal Supervisor Jan Parish, Social Worker Supervisor Grace Bushard, Social Worker Jennifer Rue and Alison McIntyre Case Aid/Office Support.
Inpatient Treatment - Jennifer Rue, Social Worker
Jennifer Rue came before the Human Services Board to talk about her work in Inpatient Chemical Dependency Case Management. The target population for this program is youth and adults struggling with chemical health requiring inpatient treatment. Referrals for this program generally come from Probation or self-referrals.
Rue noted that her caseload for this program has been increasing greatly. At the beginning of 2013, one or two clients received in-patient treatment. In November and December of this year, that number has increased to one or two per week.
Rue also shared the state-level initiative for treatment centers to focus on the dual diagnosis approach to chemical dependency treatment because so many people dealing with chemical dependency also deal with other physical, spiritual or mental health issues. It is most effective to treat chemical dependency and other health issues at the same time as they are so interconnected.
Rue's work and the services she provides are clearly making a positive difference in the lives of individuals and families struggling with chemical dependency issues.
November Financial Report - Jan Parish, Fiscal Supervisor
Jan Parish provide the November Financial Report, noting that the PHHS cash balance has grown to a healthier amount of $705,000. Parish also provided information regarding the Consolidated Chemical Dependency Treatment fund used to cover inpatient chemical treatment costs for people without health insurance to cover these costs.
Parish provided the Board with a MN Department of Human Services quality assurance review on the Cook County Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Cook County's performance is fairly consistent with statewide performance.
Director's Report - Sue Futterer, Director
Sue Futterer gave the Board a Staffing Update and recommendations for filling open positions and the Board approved the following actions:
- Alison McIntyre advanced from Office Support/Case Aid to Eligibility Specialist at 37.5 hours/week effective 12/30/13.
- Talbrey Benson-Goupil was hired to fill the Office Support/Case Aid position at 37.5 hours/week.
- An In Home Support Coordinator and MN Choices Certified Assessor position at 20 hours/week was authorized.
Futterer reported on the Wilderness Outpatient Treatment Program progress toward moving to Electronic Health Records as required by the State to be in place on/before 1/1/2015. Futterer explained that this is an expensive and an important decision, so much thought and study are going into the decision.
Futterer also reported that a Statement of Work for Child Support EDMS has been created and the Region 3 Redesign collaborative effort is moving forward.
Other Items for Board Action
- The 2014 MN Department of Health Assurance and Agreements for the Local Public Health Act Title V, MCH Block Grant and TANF Family Home Visiting was approved.
- The Board approved an agreement between Cook and Carlton Counties for the provision of Child Support Services for Cook County. Under this agreement, Carlton PHHS will provide child support officers, enforcement aids, and child support programmatic supervision to Cook County for the 13 month period of 12/1/13 through 12/31/14.
- The Board authorized a contract for services between Cook County and Financial Worker Mark Wittrock, for Income Maintenance Services from January 29, 2014 through April 30, 2014.
- The Board accepted donations in the amount of $8500 to PHHS. These gifts were given by area churches, individuals and one organization. These funds may be used at the discretion of PHHS to meet client needs when no other funding is available.
- The Board authorized the appointment of Cecelia Bloomquist to replace Matt Webb on the PHHS Advisory Committee.
Committee Reports
Garry Gamble reported that Arrowhead Regional Corrections continues to move forward with a 2-year remodel of NERC that is slated to be finished by 12/31/2015.
Jan Hall reported on the Community Health Board noting that the CHB is looking for an interim director to replace Julie Myrhe as the Director.
Bruce Martinson reported that Cook County Community YMCA Director, Emily Marshall, was present at the Health Care Planning Committee meeting last week to discuss the YMCA and ways to collaborate.
Jerry Lilja provided a briefing paper entitled "The State of Early Learning in Minnesota" from the Early Learning Council. Patty Nordahl of Cook County's PHHS Advisory Committee, serves on the Governor's Early Learning Council.
County Board Meeting
It was a pleasure to welcome County Administrator Jay Kieft to the Board Meeting today!
County Board Chair Jan Hall, along with Commissioners Heidi Doo-Kirk, Garry Gamble, Sue Hakes and Bruce Martinson were all present for today's County Board Meeting. Also present were County Auditor Jay Kieft, Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers, Assistant County Attorney Molly Hicken, and Administrative Support Bev Wolke.
Public Comment
Cook County News Herald reporter, Jane Howard, announced she has accepted a position with the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe as a psychologist and is moving to Onamia. The Board wished Howard well in her new venture.
USFS Land Exchange
The Board authorized an extension of the collection agreement between the USFS and Cook County for the current land exchange. The purpose of this modification, as presented by Assessor/Land Commissioner Betty Schultz, is to extend the expiration date of the agreement to December 31, 2014 to allow additional time for completion of the appraisal of lands in the exchange.
Highway Department
The Board approved (3) requests as presented by Highway Engineer David Betts:
- With the assistance of Congressman Chip Cravaack, Cook County was able to obtain a release of the reversionary clause that had prohibited the purchase of land needed for construction on CSAH 8. The County Board finalized this by approving the dedication of this easement and the $163,100 payment to the Cook County Airport.
- Final inspection of the CSAH 8 Reconstruction Phase 2 has been performed and the work satisfactorily completed. The Board accepted the project and authorized final payment in the amount of $62,764.88 to Ulland Brothers.
- The 2014 John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon is scheduled for January 26-29. The Board approved the permit application for this event.
Crime Victim/Witness Coordinator
The Cook County Attorney's office has been functioning without the benefit of a Crime Victim/Witness Coordinator since approximately October 16 when Jeanne Smith began fulfilling the duties of Assistant Cook County Attorney due to County Attorney Tim Scannell's medical leave. At the request of Molly Hicken, the Board approved filling a temporary, part-time position of Crime Victim/Witness Coordinator at 20 hours a week for the duration of Scannell's medical leave. This position is paid entirely by a state grant at a wage of $13.774.
Emergency Management, Jim Wiinanen
At the request of Emergency Manager, Jim Wiinanen, the Board approved the posting for a Firewise Coordinator to be hired from February 1 to December 21, 2014. SRS Title III and the CCWPP Twin Lake Grant will provide the funding for this position.
The Board also approved applying for a Community-specific Integrated Emergency Management Course to be conducted locally in FY2015 with instructional staff from the Emergency Management Institute at the National Emergency Training Center in Maryland. This training would be held in Grand Portage and include multiple jurisdictions including Grand Portage, Cook County, Neebing and Thunder Bay. If successful, funding for this training will be allocated in 2014 from department training budgets.
The Board approved a motion to apply for a grant from the T.R.A.I.L.S. program of the Polaris Foundation to purchase emergency locator signs on the recreational trails in Cook County.
Moving Matters
Kristin DeArruda-Wharton came before the Board to explain the relationships between the Sawtooth Mountain Clinic wellness programs including Moving Matters, State Health Improvement Program (SHIP), Community Transformation Grant, Safe Routes to School and the Active Living Steering Committee. DeArruda-Wharton shared that Moving Matters is a home-grown, county-wide project of the Sawtooth Mountain Clinic and many local partners working to create safe and accessible walking and biking routes for people of all ages and abilities. Funding for Moving Matters is from a BCBS grant for planning which will include public involvement and facilitation from ARDC.
Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers
Powers reported that the Secure Rural Schools Act was reauthorized for one more year. The County approved Power's recommendation for allocating the funds with 85% to be divided equally for public schools and public roads. Seven percent will be set aside for Title III County projects.
The Board approved making no change to Board per diems and salary. The Board voted to increase the Commissioner's contribution to health insurance from $15 to $25/month (4-1 Hall opposed).
The Board approved a deadline of December 20, 2013 at 2 pm as the deadline for qualified newspapers to submit proof of qualifications and 2014 rates for publishing legal notices.
2014 Budget and Levy
The Board approved the 2014 Budget and set a tax levy of $6,104,890 which is a 0% increase.
Law Enforcement, Judy Sivertson
The Board authorized the purchase of wireless headsets at a cost of $1515 as presented by Judy Sivertson. These headsets will enable dispatchers to dispatch while away from the desk conducting inmate cell checks, lobby business, and typing. These headsets will be paid for from the 9-1-1- fund.
ARMER Radios, Rowan Watkins
Rowan Watkins and Danna MacKenzie of the County's IT Department, came before the Board with a request to purchase 70 ARMER mobile radios and 17 base stations. All but 11 radios and 3 base stations will be funded by a grant.
Economic Development Authority
When asked for an update, Commissioner Doo-Kirk reported that the EDA has laid off 3 of 4 employees at Superior National Golf Course. In addition, the EDA opted not to renew its contract with Community Funding Solutions (CFS). These measures have been taken to address EDA budget issues.
Cook County Community YMCA
Wade Cole, ORB Management, gave the Board a construction and budget update for the YMCA project. The Board authorized up to $16,000 to improve the lobby floor (3-2 Gamble and Hall opposed), $3200 for sun blocker 3M film for the pool windows (4-1 Gamble opposed), and $2250 for gym door mullions and door closers (4-1 Gamble opposed). In addition, the Board authorized adding $10,000 to the contingency fund (4-1 Gamble opposed).
Everybody is invited to the YMCA's Grand Opening on Saturday, January 4! Hope to see you there! On Friday, January 3, there will be a celebration event for Charter Members! Check the Cook County Community YMCA website for membership information! Join before the Grand Opening and become a Charter Member!
Miscellaneous
The Board assigned Commissioner Doo-Kirk to the County Safety Committee. The Safety Committee is different from the Courthouse Security Committee, but the two collaborate on shared goals.
The Board approved Dyan Ebert to pursue reimbursement from the Minnesota Attorney General for prosecution services provide by Thomas Heffelfinger in the Tim Scannell case.
A public hearing on the MN Gypsy Moth program will be scheduled in January.
Meeting Minutes
A copy of these meeting minutes will be posted after they are approved on the Cook County website. A written copy may be obtained by contact the Auditor-Treasurer's Office at 387-3640.
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Cook County Board Meeting on October 8, 2013
County Board Chair Janice Hall and Commissioners Heidi Doo-Kirk, Garry Gamble, Sue Hakes and Bruce Martinson were all present for the 10/8/2013 County Board Meeting. Also present were Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers, and Administrative Specialist Bev Wolke.
Public Comment
The Commissioner's Room was filled with residents concerned about MnDOT's recent installation of Center Rumble Strips (CRS) on Highway 61 east of Grand Marais. Deb Vannett read a letter she and her husband, James Vannett, composed in opposition to the CRS. It appeared the Vannett letter reflected the views of those in attendance. Several other residents spoke in opposition as well. Overall concerns include: noise pollution, hazardous debris from the CRS causing safety concern, negative impact on wildlife, and proximity of CRS to homes. The public comment was very respectful.
Cook County Community YMCA
Emily Marshall, Cook County YMCA Director, came before the Board for approval to purchase a server and switches for the new facility. The Board approved this purchase based on low bid.
MnDOT District 1 Rumble Strips
Duane Hill, MnDOT District 1 Engineer, along with Engineer Jim Miller and Toward Zero Deaths (TZD) Coordinator Holly Kostrzewski provided an update on the Center Rumble Strips (CRS) mitigation efforts and answered questions for the Board and for the Public.
Hill acknowledged the concerns of the public and said he had been communicating with several Cook County residents. He also assured the Board and the public that MnDOT personnel, including Commissioner Charles Zelle, is aware of the problem. Hill reported that MnDOT will be doing some mitigation work on the CRS before snow falls. The first step will be a sound analysis to understand and measure the noise impact of the CRS; this will be done in October. After this, MnDOT will work to find a contractor ready and able to modify the CRS to be less noisy. This work will not preclude further mitigation from being done next year.
The County Board is advocating for MnDOT to address these issues.
Gitchi Gami Express Sled Dog Race
The Board approved a special event permit application for the Gitchi Gami Express Sled Dog Race to be held on January 4, 2014. This race will begin at Mineral Center, follow the snowmobile trail system to Hungry Jack Lodge, Poplar Lake, Devil Track Lake and back to Grand Portage/Mineral Center.
Maintenance
Maintenance Director, Brian Silence, and Carin Gulstrand of E.R. Perry, presented samples of new directory signage for the Courthouse. The Board authorized moving forward with this purchase in the amount of $3349.16.
Emergency Management
The Board authorized purchasing cellular communication enhancement equipment for the Search and Rescue Hall in Grand Marais. The $918.14 cost for this equipment is in the Emergency Management capital expense budget.
Veteran's Services Grant
The 2013 State Legislature modified the structure of the CVSO grant program and funding increased based on a County's Veteran population. Cook County will receive an additional $7500; funds must be spent by May 30, 2014.
Public Hearing for MN Small Cities Development
The County Board will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, October 22, 2013 at 10:00 am in the County Board Chambers of the Cook County Courthouse. The purpose of this Public Hearing is to provide information and to receive public input and comments on Cook County's 2012 MN DEED Small City Development Program.
Office of Planning and Zoning
As recommended by the Planning Commission, the Board approved a Conditional Use Permit to the Town of Tofte, MN Tower Holdings and Verizon Wireless to erect a 190-foot, multi-tenant communication facility on property within the Town of Tofte.
As recommended by the Planning Commission, the Board approved a Conditional Use Permit to Mike Borman to construct an accessory structure in excess of 3000 square feet without a primary residence in the FAR-2 zone district.
As recommended by the Planning Commission, the Board approved an Interim Use Permit for Jon and Anne Holy for the continued use of a recreational vehicle for habitation on property adjacent to Kemo Lake.
Law Enforcement, Sheriff Mark Falk
Sheriff Mark Falk informed the Board that a North Division of the Cook County Search and Rescue is being formalized on the Gunflint Trail. The purpose of this volunteer division of the Cook County Sheriff's Office is to assist the sheriff in fulfilling duties as described in MN Statues 387.03.
As recommended by Sheriff Falk, the Board authorized (4-1 Gamble opposed) the purchase of a portable Multi Energy X-Ray Machine and Walk-through Metal Detector in the amount of $24,500. This X-ray Machine is being sold at a slight discount as it has been used once at the UN General Assembly in NYC September 2013.
Scheef Property Access
The Board appointed a small committee to study the issue regarding access to the John Scheef property. Commissioners Doo-Kirk and Gamble were assigned. (Note: Hakes is going to request replacing Gamble on this committee as the access issues are in District 3 and District 4.) Amy Wilfarht presented a letter to the Board expressing her concerns about development of this property and the access issues.
Council on Aging Audit
The Board and County Attorney Tim Scannell discussed the possible development of a County Policy regarding audit requirements for grant recipients receiving $50,000 or more.
Meeting Minutes
Meeting minutes for all County Board meetings are available by going to the Cook County website or by calling the Auditor's Office at 218-387-3646. A video of this meeting in its entirety is available http://Boreal.TV.
Public Comment
The Commissioner's Room was filled with residents concerned about MnDOT's recent installation of Center Rumble Strips (CRS) on Highway 61 east of Grand Marais. Deb Vannett read a letter she and her husband, James Vannett, composed in opposition to the CRS. It appeared the Vannett letter reflected the views of those in attendance. Several other residents spoke in opposition as well. Overall concerns include: noise pollution, hazardous debris from the CRS causing safety concern, negative impact on wildlife, and proximity of CRS to homes. The public comment was very respectful.
Cook County Community YMCA
Emily Marshall, Cook County YMCA Director, came before the Board for approval to purchase a server and switches for the new facility. The Board approved this purchase based on low bid.
MnDOT District 1 Rumble Strips
Duane Hill, MnDOT District 1 Engineer, along with Engineer Jim Miller and Toward Zero Deaths (TZD) Coordinator Holly Kostrzewski provided an update on the Center Rumble Strips (CRS) mitigation efforts and answered questions for the Board and for the Public.
Hill acknowledged the concerns of the public and said he had been communicating with several Cook County residents. He also assured the Board and the public that MnDOT personnel, including Commissioner Charles Zelle, is aware of the problem. Hill reported that MnDOT will be doing some mitigation work on the CRS before snow falls. The first step will be a sound analysis to understand and measure the noise impact of the CRS; this will be done in October. After this, MnDOT will work to find a contractor ready and able to modify the CRS to be less noisy. This work will not preclude further mitigation from being done next year.
The County Board is advocating for MnDOT to address these issues.
Gitchi Gami Express Sled Dog Race
The Board approved a special event permit application for the Gitchi Gami Express Sled Dog Race to be held on January 4, 2014. This race will begin at Mineral Center, follow the snowmobile trail system to Hungry Jack Lodge, Poplar Lake, Devil Track Lake and back to Grand Portage/Mineral Center.
Maintenance
Maintenance Director, Brian Silence, and Carin Gulstrand of E.R. Perry, presented samples of new directory signage for the Courthouse. The Board authorized moving forward with this purchase in the amount of $3349.16.
Emergency Management
The Board authorized purchasing cellular communication enhancement equipment for the Search and Rescue Hall in Grand Marais. The $918.14 cost for this equipment is in the Emergency Management capital expense budget.
Veteran's Services Grant
The 2013 State Legislature modified the structure of the CVSO grant program and funding increased based on a County's Veteran population. Cook County will receive an additional $7500; funds must be spent by May 30, 2014.
Public Hearing for MN Small Cities Development
The County Board will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, October 22, 2013 at 10:00 am in the County Board Chambers of the Cook County Courthouse. The purpose of this Public Hearing is to provide information and to receive public input and comments on Cook County's 2012 MN DEED Small City Development Program.
Office of Planning and Zoning
As recommended by the Planning Commission, the Board approved a Conditional Use Permit to the Town of Tofte, MN Tower Holdings and Verizon Wireless to erect a 190-foot, multi-tenant communication facility on property within the Town of Tofte.
As recommended by the Planning Commission, the Board approved a Conditional Use Permit to Mike Borman to construct an accessory structure in excess of 3000 square feet without a primary residence in the FAR-2 zone district.
As recommended by the Planning Commission, the Board approved an Interim Use Permit for Jon and Anne Holy for the continued use of a recreational vehicle for habitation on property adjacent to Kemo Lake.
Law Enforcement, Sheriff Mark Falk
Sheriff Mark Falk informed the Board that a North Division of the Cook County Search and Rescue is being formalized on the Gunflint Trail. The purpose of this volunteer division of the Cook County Sheriff's Office is to assist the sheriff in fulfilling duties as described in MN Statues 387.03.
As recommended by Sheriff Falk, the Board authorized (4-1 Gamble opposed) the purchase of a portable Multi Energy X-Ray Machine and Walk-through Metal Detector in the amount of $24,500. This X-ray Machine is being sold at a slight discount as it has been used once at the UN General Assembly in NYC September 2013.
Scheef Property Access
The Board appointed a small committee to study the issue regarding access to the John Scheef property. Commissioners Doo-Kirk and Gamble were assigned. (Note: Hakes is going to request replacing Gamble on this committee as the access issues are in District 3 and District 4.) Amy Wilfarht presented a letter to the Board expressing her concerns about development of this property and the access issues.
Council on Aging Audit
The Board and County Attorney Tim Scannell discussed the possible development of a County Policy regarding audit requirements for grant recipients receiving $50,000 or more.
Meeting Minutes
Meeting minutes for all County Board meetings are available by going to the Cook County website or by calling the Auditor's Office at 218-387-3646. A video of this meeting in its entirety is available http://Boreal.TV.
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
8/13/13 County Board Meeting: More Budgets, County Administrator Recruitment, Highway Department Annual Report
Board Chair Jan Hall and Commissioners Doo-Kirk, Gamble, Hakes and Martinson were present for today's County Board Meeting. Also present were Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers, County Attorney Tim Scannell, and Bev Wolke.
Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to come before the Board.
Tennis Court (moved to earlier spot on the agenda)
During the County Budget Hearings last week, the County Board moved to hire Skadberg Masonry to build the sidewalk and access ramp along the east side of the North and South Tennis Courts. Skadberg Masonry quoted the lowest cost. The Board also authorized Wade Cole, ORB Management, to solicit costs for installing a drinking fountain that had been purchased several years ago by the County, but never installed. Wade Cole participated in today's meeting via Skype to discuss with the Board, the cost of that installation. The Board unanimously authorized moving forward with the drinking fountain at an estimated cost of $1200 for installation, $1300 for PUC hookup. The Board will request that the PUC waive the hookup fees. The County will be responsible for the monthly charges.
Recycling Center
Planning Director Tim Nelson notified the Board that the Recycling Center Operator retired last week and requested the Board authorize posting the position. With regrets, the County Board accepted the resignation of Jeff Sylvester and approved posting the position in-house.
Community Center Director, Diane Booth
The County Board approved the lease agreement between Cook County and the Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency (AEOA) for specified areas of the Cook County Community Center for AEOA Employment and Training activities. The AEOA office has recently been relocated from its former location at ISD166 to the Community Center and is working out well for clients and AEOA Staff.
Private Land Exchange Request
The County Board denied a request from John Scheef to exchange 80-acres of property he owns (PID 53-118-4100) with County-owned property.
Budget Hearings continued
Sheriff Mark Falk and Emergency Manager Jim Wiinanen reviewed their 2014 Budget proposals with the County Board. Falk and Wiinanen were unable to attend the Budget Hearings last week. The Board heard requests from other Department Heads and Community Groups on August 5-6, 2013.
The MN Legislature has capped the property tax levy for Counties to ~3%. Current requests total an approximate 7.79% increase. The Board requests that each Department Head demonstrate what a 5% cut in their expenses would look like and how they might increase their revenues.
The preliminary levy must be adopted by September 10.
Cook County Administrator Recruitment
David Unmacht, Springsted Group, met with the Board via Skype. Unmacht reported that 36 applications have been received for the County Administrator position, noting that 21 of the applicants are from MN. The candidate list will be reviewed and initially pared down to candidates with the most potential. From that list, the top candidates will be selected for interviews. Unmacht and the Board are pleased with the strong response. The Board is working to have Administrator begin work by November 1, 2013.
Personnel Committee
Board Chair Jan Hall and Commissioner Bruce Martinson reported on the recommendations of the Personnel Committee on which they serve. They reported that several jobs in the Highway Department were rewritten with minor changes. Two job descriptions were rewritten due to reorganization of some duties within the Assessor Office and Public Health and Human Services. And, the Personnel Committee recommended an upgraded job description for the Emergency Management Director. All recommendations were discussed and approved by the County Board.
The Personnel Committee also recommended the methodology used by Cook County to rate its jobs be evaluated and upgraded accordingly so that all positions are accurately documented and fairly rated.
Bond Payments for the Cedar Grove Business Park
The County and the City are working on a written agreement regarding the Cedar Grove Business Park bond payments. These payments are ~$120,000 annually to be split equally by the County and the City. Ultimately, this agreement will be signed by Cook County, the City of Grand Marais, and the EDA.
Arrowhead Regional Corrections (ARC)
The Board moved to pay its $81,600 portion of the ARC Asset Preservation and Capital Improvement Projects in full and up front as opposed to making payments.
County Highway Department Work Session
Highway Engineer David Betts, Maintenance Supervisor Russell Klegstad, and Highway Department Accountant Lisa Sorlie presented the 2012 Annual Report for the Cook County Highway Department. In addition, reports were given on the 2nd Quarter Financials for 2013, Maintenance Project updates and Construction Projects. Betts reported that the right-hand downhill lane on the Gunflint Trail will be closed for approximately 3-4 weeks for blasting being done for the Superior Zip Line just north of Grand Marais.
Meeting Minutes
Meeting minutes for this meeting may be obtained by contacting the County Auditor-Treasurer's Office at 218/387-3640 or by going to the Cook County website. A video of this meeting in its entirety may be viewed by going to Boreal.TV
Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to come before the Board.
Tennis Court (moved to earlier spot on the agenda)
During the County Budget Hearings last week, the County Board moved to hire Skadberg Masonry to build the sidewalk and access ramp along the east side of the North and South Tennis Courts. Skadberg Masonry quoted the lowest cost. The Board also authorized Wade Cole, ORB Management, to solicit costs for installing a drinking fountain that had been purchased several years ago by the County, but never installed. Wade Cole participated in today's meeting via Skype to discuss with the Board, the cost of that installation. The Board unanimously authorized moving forward with the drinking fountain at an estimated cost of $1200 for installation, $1300 for PUC hookup. The Board will request that the PUC waive the hookup fees. The County will be responsible for the monthly charges.
Recycling Center
Planning Director Tim Nelson notified the Board that the Recycling Center Operator retired last week and requested the Board authorize posting the position. With regrets, the County Board accepted the resignation of Jeff Sylvester and approved posting the position in-house.
Community Center Director, Diane Booth
The County Board approved the lease agreement between Cook County and the Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency (AEOA) for specified areas of the Cook County Community Center for AEOA Employment and Training activities. The AEOA office has recently been relocated from its former location at ISD166 to the Community Center and is working out well for clients and AEOA Staff.
Private Land Exchange Request
The County Board denied a request from John Scheef to exchange 80-acres of property he owns (PID 53-118-4100) with County-owned property.
Budget Hearings continued
Sheriff Mark Falk and Emergency Manager Jim Wiinanen reviewed their 2014 Budget proposals with the County Board. Falk and Wiinanen were unable to attend the Budget Hearings last week. The Board heard requests from other Department Heads and Community Groups on August 5-6, 2013.
The MN Legislature has capped the property tax levy for Counties to ~3%. Current requests total an approximate 7.79% increase. The Board requests that each Department Head demonstrate what a 5% cut in their expenses would look like and how they might increase their revenues.
The preliminary levy must be adopted by September 10.
Cook County Administrator Recruitment
David Unmacht, Springsted Group, met with the Board via Skype. Unmacht reported that 36 applications have been received for the County Administrator position, noting that 21 of the applicants are from MN. The candidate list will be reviewed and initially pared down to candidates with the most potential. From that list, the top candidates will be selected for interviews. Unmacht and the Board are pleased with the strong response. The Board is working to have Administrator begin work by November 1, 2013.
Personnel Committee
Board Chair Jan Hall and Commissioner Bruce Martinson reported on the recommendations of the Personnel Committee on which they serve. They reported that several jobs in the Highway Department were rewritten with minor changes. Two job descriptions were rewritten due to reorganization of some duties within the Assessor Office and Public Health and Human Services. And, the Personnel Committee recommended an upgraded job description for the Emergency Management Director. All recommendations were discussed and approved by the County Board.
The Personnel Committee also recommended the methodology used by Cook County to rate its jobs be evaluated and upgraded accordingly so that all positions are accurately documented and fairly rated.
Bond Payments for the Cedar Grove Business Park
The County and the City are working on a written agreement regarding the Cedar Grove Business Park bond payments. These payments are ~$120,000 annually to be split equally by the County and the City. Ultimately, this agreement will be signed by Cook County, the City of Grand Marais, and the EDA.
Arrowhead Regional Corrections (ARC)
The Board moved to pay its $81,600 portion of the ARC Asset Preservation and Capital Improvement Projects in full and up front as opposed to making payments.
County Highway Department Work Session
Highway Engineer David Betts, Maintenance Supervisor Russell Klegstad, and Highway Department Accountant Lisa Sorlie presented the 2012 Annual Report for the Cook County Highway Department. In addition, reports were given on the 2nd Quarter Financials for 2013, Maintenance Project updates and Construction Projects. Betts reported that the right-hand downhill lane on the Gunflint Trail will be closed for approximately 3-4 weeks for blasting being done for the Superior Zip Line just north of Grand Marais.
Meeting Minutes
Me
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
County Board Meeting for May 28: Sentence to Serve, County Administrator Job Description, SSTS Ordinance Discussion
Board Chair Jan Hall, along with Commissioners Heidi Doo-Kirk, Garry Gamble, Sue Hakes and Bruce Martinson were all present for today's County Board Meeting. Also in attendance was Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers and Personnel Director/Board Secretary Janet Simonen.
Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to come before the County Board at today's meeting.
Courthouse Remodeling Project
Maintenance Director, Brian Silence, came before the Board with (3) quotes for various Courthouse Remodeling projects. There was a wide discrepency between the bids coming in at $29,029 (S&C), $14,895 (M-Con Construction), and $7,325 (Bryan Carpenter). There was concern that the lowest bid didn't include all materials and labor because it was so low. Of the two remaining bids, the County Board made the award to M-Con Construction as the lowest qualified bidder.
The Board also discussed State bidding laws and how they apply to Cook County bidding procedures. Braidy Powers, Brian Silence, Tim Scannell, Commissioners Doo-Kirk and Gamble will explore this issue and draft a Cook County policy. Commissioner Hakes suggested the policy mirror State bidding laws and not add layers of unnecessary and costly administration to the process.
Colvill Town Hall
Brian Silence presented (2) bids for the removal and replacement of the concrete stairs installed by Hall Masonry at the Colvill Town Hall: $6,170 (Concrete Design and Landscaping) and $1,980 (S&C Masonry). The Board authorized hiring S&C as the low bidder. Hall Masonry is no longer in business and therefore unable to do this remedial work.
Sentence to Serve Program (STS)
Victor Moen, Grand Rapids District STS Supervisor, and Gary Jorgenson, Cook County STS Supervisor came before the County Board to review the 2013 State of Minnesota Income Contract and answer questions about the STS Program. Moen and Jorgenson talked about the benefits of the STS partnership between Cook County and the State Department of Corrections.
Overall, the STS program saves the County money by avoiding costs for out of county incarceration for sentences over 72 hours. In addition, the program provides an opportunity for rehabilitation, building self-worth, training and mentorship. Lastly, the STS program focuses on getting work done that would not otherwise get done.
Moen and Jorgenson also explained the steps taken to ensure that the work performed by offenders in the STS Program does not result in the displacement of current employees or seasonal workers.
The County Board authorized the 2013 Sentence to Serve Contract with the State Department of Corrections.
Miscellaneous
Claims for payment were approved as presented by Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers.
The Board authorized by resolution a request submitted by the Gunflint Lake Property Owners Association for a raffle at their annual festivities at Gunflint Lodge on July 17, 2013.
Powers reminded the Board that on December 18, 2012, the County Board approved the County levy and the EDA levy, ultimately funding the EDA's total request of $209,144 by setting the levy at $150,000 and using fund balance to supply the additional $59,144 to the City of Grand Marais for Cedar Grove Business Development Park bond payments. The December 2012 minutes reflect an EDA levy of $209,144. Based on Powers' recommendation, the Board took the following corrective action:
1. December 18, 2012 motion was rescinded.
2. A Resolution for the County Budget and Levy was approved showing the correction and,
3. EDA Levy was approved at $150,000 and payment of $59,144 was approved to come from the County Fund Balance toward the payment of the City's Cedar Grove Business Development Park bond payment. This approval was made contingent upon getting written agreement with the City of Grand Marais regarding current and future bond payments and income from lot sales and wetland credits.
The Board authorized Commissioners Martinson and Hakes, along with Braidy Powers, to negotiate this agreement with the City of Grand Marais.
Cook County Community YMCA project
Commissioner Hakes reported that the suggestion for ISD166 to pay for the Locker Room/Security Door renovation in exchange for the One Percent project paying for additional bleachers was not going to move forward. In a conversation with Superintendent Beth Schwarz, Hakes learned that there was no plan for ISD166 to purchase bleachers.
Hakes also reported that the exterior walls of the Cook County Community YMCA were going up. Some members of the Board expressed concern about the difference in color for the exterior panels; Hakes said she had already asked Wade Cole to look into the difference in color and report back.
County Administrator Hiring Process
The Board was presented with a proposed County Administrator Job Description as prepared by Commissioners Bruce Martinson and Garry Gamble. Following a discussion of this job description, the Board moved to solicit input on the job description from Personnel Director Janet Simonen, County Attorney Tim Scannell, and Department Heads. The Board also moved (4-1 with Gamble opposed) to negotiate a contract with Springsted to assist and consult the County in the hiring of a County Administrator. Braidy Powers and Janet Simonen, along with Commissioners Gamble and Martinson, will contact Springsted to outline a possible statement of work and schedule a meeting with the County Board.
Pharmaceutical Drop Off Boxes
The Board authorized Tim Nelson to purchase (2) pharmaceutical drop off boxes to be installed at the Cook County Law Enforcement Center and in Grand Portage. For some general information on medicinal disposal, go to the WLSSD web page.
Cook County Septic Ordinance Discussion Number 58
Office of Planning & Zoning Director, Tim Nelson, along with Environmental Health & Septic Officer, Mitch Everson, led the County Board through the 2nd half of the most recent draft of the Cook County Septic Ordinance Number 58 discussion. Also present were licensed installers Dean Berneking and Dave Tuttle. Nelson advised that the next steps in this process would be to incorporate suggested changes and re-route for review. After that review, a public hearing will be set, most likely for August 2013. There were issues identified in today's discussion that the Board is eager to hear from the public on.
(Board Chair Jan Hall was absent from the afternoon session discussing Pharmaceutical Drop Off Boxes and Septic Ordinance Draft.)
Meeting Minutes
Meeting minutes will be made available on the County Website or by calling Janet Simonen at 218-387-3602. A video of this meeting in its entirety is available by going to Boreal.TV.
Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to come before the County Board at today's meeting.
Courthouse Remodeling Project
Maintenance Director, Brian Silence, came before the Board with (3) quotes for various Courthouse Remodeling projects. There was a wide discrepency between the bids coming in at $29,029 (S&C), $14,895 (M-Con Construction), and $7,325 (Bryan Carpenter). There was concern that the lowest bid didn't include all materials and labor because it was so low. Of the two remaining bids, the County Board made the award to M-Con Construction as the lowest qualified bidder.
The Board also discussed State bidding laws and how they apply to Cook County bidding procedures. Braidy Powers, Brian Silence, Tim Scannell, Commissioners Doo-Kirk and Gamble will explore this issue and draft a Cook County policy. Commissioner Hakes suggested the policy mirror State bidding laws and not add layers of unnecessary and costly administration to the process.
Colvill Town Hall
Brian Silence presented (2) bids for the removal and replacement of the concrete stairs installed by Hall Masonry at the Colvill Town Hall: $6,170 (Concrete Design and Landscaping) and $1,980 (S&C Masonry). The Board authorized hiring S&C as the low bidder. Hall Masonry is no longer in business and therefore unable to do this remedial work.
Sentence to Serve Program (STS)
Victor Moen, Grand Rapids District STS Supervisor, and Gary Jorgenson, Cook County STS Supervisor came before the County Board to review the 2013 State of Minnesota Income Contract and answer questions about the STS Program. Moen and Jorgenson talked about the benefits of the STS partnership between Cook County and the State Department of Corrections.
Overall, the STS program saves the County money by avoiding costs for out of county incarceration for sentences over 72 hours. In addition, the program provides an opportunity for rehabilitation, building self-worth, training and mentorship. Lastly, the STS program focuses on getting work done that would not otherwise get done.
Moen and Jorgenson also explained the steps taken to ensure that the work performed by offenders in the STS Program does not result in the displacement of current employees or seasonal workers.
The County Board authorized the 2013 Sentence to Serve Contract with the State Department of Corrections.
Miscellaneous
Claims for payment were approved as presented by Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers.
The Board authorized by resolution a request submitted by the Gunflint Lake Property Owners Association for a raffle at their annual festivities at Gunflint Lodge on July 17, 2013.
Powers reminded the Board that on December 18, 2012, the County Board approved the County levy and the EDA levy, ultimately funding the EDA's total request of $209,144 by setting the levy at $150,000 and using fund balance to supply the additional $59,144 to the City of Grand Marais for Cedar Grove Business Development Park bond payments. The December 2012 minutes reflect an EDA levy of $209,144. Based on Powers' recommendation, the Board took the following corrective action:
1. December 18, 2012 motion was rescinded.
2. A Resolution for the County Budget and Levy was approved showing the correction and,
3. EDA Levy was approved at $150,000 and payment of $59,144 was approved to come from the County Fund Balance toward the payment of the City's Cedar Grove Business Development Park bond payment. This approval was made contingent upon getting written agreement with the City of Grand Marais regarding current and future bond payments and income from lot sales and wetland credits.
The Board authorized Commissioners Martinson and Hakes, along with Braidy Powers, to negotiate this agreement with the City of Grand Marais.
Cook County Community YMCA project
Commissioner Hakes reported that the suggestion for ISD166 to pay for the Locker Room/Security Door renovation in exchange for the One Percent project paying for additional bleachers was not going to move forward. In a conversation with Superintendent Beth Schwarz, Hakes learned that there was no plan for ISD166 to purchase bleachers.
Hakes also reported that the exterior walls of the Cook County Community YMCA were going up. Some members of the Board expressed concern about the difference in color for the exterior panels; Hakes said she had already asked Wade Cole to look into the difference in color and report back.
County Administrator Hiring Process
The Board was presented with a proposed County Administrator Job Description as prepared by Commissioners Bruce Martinson and Garry Gamble. Following a discussion of this job description, the Board moved to solicit input on the job description from Personnel Director Janet Simonen, County Attorney Tim Scannell, and Department Heads. The Board also moved (4-1 with Gamble opposed) to negotiate a contract with Springsted to assist and consult the County in the hiring of a County Administrator. Braidy Powers and Janet Simonen, along with Commissioners Gamble and Martinson, will contact Springsted to outline a possible statement of work and schedule a meeting with the County Board.
Pharmaceutical Drop Off Boxes
The Board authorized Tim Nelson to purchase (2) pharmaceutical drop off boxes to be installed at the Cook County Law Enforcement Center and in Grand Portage. For some general information on medicinal disposal, go to the WLSSD web page.
Cook County Septic Ordinance Discussion Number 58
Office of Planning & Zoning Director, Tim Nelson, along with Environmental Health & Septic Officer, Mitch Everson, led the County Board through the 2nd half of the most recent draft of the Cook County Septic Ordinance Number 58 discussion. Also present were licensed installers Dean Berneking and Dave Tuttle. Nelson advised that the next steps in this process would be to incorporate suggested changes and re-route for review. After that review, a public hearing will be set, most likely for August 2013. There were issues identified in today's discussion that the Board is eager to hear from the public on.
(Board Chair Jan Hall was absent from the afternoon session discussing Pharmaceutical Drop Off Boxes and Septic Ordinance Draft.)
Meeting Minutes
Meeting minutes will be made available on the County Website or by calling Janet Simonen at 218-387-3602. A video of this meeting in its entirety is available by going to Boreal.TV.
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
April 9, 2013 County Board Meeting: Courthouse Security, Cook County Family YMCA, Closed Session, Highway Department Work Session
County Board Chair Jan Hall, along with Commissioners Doo-Kirk, Gamble, Martinson and Hakes were all present for today's 8 1/2 hour Board Meeting. Also present were Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers, Personnel Director/Board Secretary Janet Simonen, and County Attorney Tim Scannell.
Public Comment
Jerome Brandt came before the Board to express his opposition to an X-ray machine and additional deputies in the Courthouse. He stated his fears that if this happens, the County Board (and other Boards) will change from being helpful, kind and considerate to being arrogant bullies. Brandt asked for mercy on the poor and no extravagant spending.
MN Counties Insurance Trust (MCIT)
Jeff Holubar of MCIT came before the Board to present the 2013 MCIT report to Cook County. MCIT is a joint powers entity made up of counties and associated public entities that pool resources to provide property, casualty and workers' compensation coverage to members.
Holubar reported that Cook County's 2013 cost is $137,529, up approximately 40% over the past 3 years. Rates are based on a formula that uses the frequency and severity of work-related injuries and illnesses. Holubar also reported that 31.2% of Cook County employees use the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), a voluntary program that provides access to professional counselors for support and advice on personal issues that may affect an employee's work performance.
State-wide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) Coordinator, Kristin Wharton
SHIP Coordinator, Kristin Wharton, updated the Board on the Active Living Summit held last Fall. The Board also agreed to her request for a letter of support from the County for Sawtooth Mountain Clinic's application to Prevention MN for the "Active Living for All" grant project.
Highway Department, County Engineer David Betts
The Board approved a special event permit for the Ham Run. The Board also accepted the bids as submitted for the CSAH 7 Rehabilitation Project and authorized awarding the project to low bidder Northland Constructors for $2,876,217.14. County Engineer David Betts and Assistant County Engineer Sam Muntean are working to reduce the cost of this project by approximately $200,000. The CSAH 7 Project is slated to begin in June with completion in August of this year.
Office of Planning and Zoning (OPZ) and Solid Waste Officer, Tim Nelson
The Board passed a resolution to continue the Lakeshore Septic System Compliance Program with inspections on (3) area lakes: McFarland, Greenwood, Tom. Cook County, with the assistance of SWCD, has been awarded a Clean Water Legacy grant to fund the inspection of these lakes. Cook County SSTS Loan Ordinance #60 was passed in 2012 authorizing Cook County to establish and administer a low interest public loan program that assists private landowners to finance site evaluation, pumping, design, installation, repair, and replacement of Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems.
The Board authorized hiring Gary Kimball at the Tofte Transfer Station as recommended by Tim Nelson.
The Board authorized writing a letter of support to the appropriate State Legislators in support of H.F. 865 and S.F. 639 to enable manufacturers of carpets, batteries, and paint to implement end-of-life management systems for their products.
Cook County Family YMCA Project
Wade Cole, ORB Management, presented the re-bid results for Earthwork and Aluminum Storefronts/Glazing and the County Board authorized making awards to the low bidders. The costs for the Earthwork and the Aluminum Storefronts/Glazing both went down.
Cole informed the Board that the original low bid for the Painting and Coatings was incomplete. The Board directed ORB to re-bid the Painting and Coatings.
The Board also directed Cole to get bids for HVAC System Commissioning which is the process of assuring that the HVAC system and its components are installed, tested, operated and maintained properly. Once these bids are received the Board will consider authorizing this work.
Courthouse Security
Sheriff Mark Falk, supported by several members of the Courthouse Security Committee, presented a choice of (2) written resolutions on Courthouse Security for consideration by the County Board. These recommendations were based heavily on the professional recommendation of Steven Swenson of CJES Security and 15 months of study by the Courthouse Security Committee. Both are summarized below:
Resolution #1: 2 full-time deputies for Courthouse security. Full screening of persons and bags entering the Courthouse during regular Courthouse hours. Purchase of equipment necessary to screen bags and persons (X-ray and Metal Detection).
Resolution #2: 1 full-time deputy for Courthouse security. Full screening of persons and bags entering the Courthouse during any District Court hours or other highly-charged/high-risk events n the Courthouse at the discretion of the Sheriff. Purchase of equipment necessary to screen bags and persons (X-ray and Metal Detection).
The Board then engaged in a lengthy, passionate, complex and difficult debate about Courthouse Security, but did not approve either resolution.
Ultimately, the Board did pass (3) separate motions in a very fragmented and bumpy manner:
Motion 1. Authorized Sheriff Falk to obtain a used X-ray machine from FBI Office in Duluth at no charge; or if not available or not in working order, authorization to purchase an X-ray machine. (Passed 3-2 with Hakes and Hall opposed because motion did not address staffing or Metal Detector.)
After the motion to obtain the X-ray machine passed, Commissioner Hakes made a motion to support Resolution #2. Jan Hall made the second, but it failed 2-3 with Doo-Kirk, Gamble, and Martinson opposed. (Note that both Commissioners Hall and Hakes were members of the Courthouse Security Committee.)
Motion 2. Authorized Sheriff Falk to hire part-time licensed peace officer to staff the X-ray machine on Court Days. (Passed 3-2 with Hakes and Hall opposed because Sheriff Falk was not consulted.)
Motion 3. Authorized Sheriff Falk to purchase a Metal Detector. (Passed 5-0)
Personal Note on Courthouse Security--
I fully supported the recommendations of Sheriff Falk, the Courthouse Security Committee, Security Expert Steve Swenson of CJES, and the teachings of security trainings I have attended. I believe that Security decisions are best made by those responsible for providing that security, namely the law and order of our County, and should be based on the knowledge and recommendations of those professionals with security expertise.
Beyond that, I believe that NOT taking the recommendations given to the County Board exposes the County to enormous financial liability. This financial liability is in addition to the costs being incurred from the December 15, 2011 shooting (security enhancements to the building, lost work and lost productivity, increased insurance costs, training, workman's comp, staff time working on security issues, health care, Employee Assistance Program services, building cleanup, additional attorney services, etc.).
But far and above all, I'm concerned about the safety and welfare of all those who enter the Cook County Courthouse including members of the Public, County employees, jurors, elected officials, Court Administration and Courtroom Staff, Judges, defendants, victims, witnesses, probation officers and law enforcement.
I was in the Courthouse during the shooting event, I've heard the complete 9-1-1 tape and viewed the photographs of the incident. I've had detailed conversations with the victims, the employees involved in the struggle, and many of the employees in the building at the time of the shooting. I heard the gun shots, the cries for help, and the struggle. I witnessed the chaos and the extreme pain and anguish suffered by the families of those involved and the employees present. Like others, I am forever changed.
I've been accused of being too emotional in my decision-making about Courthouse Security. Yes, I am emotional about it. More importantly, I am aware of what can happen when we least expect it. It can and did happen to us. I don't ever want this to happen to anybody again and will do what I can to ensure that it doesn't.
Certainly, there is no promise that by implementing the proposed security recommendations that we will never have another incident of violence in our Courthouse. But, we need to take all reasonable steps to minimize the possibility of another Courthouse shooting or act of violence. If we do this, we have a good chance of preventing the next emotionally charged person from making a bad decision for him or herself. If we do this, we have a good chance of preventing harm to those who enter the Courthouse. If we do this, we will know that we've done all that we reasonably can. I cannot, in good conscience, support anything less.
Miscellaneous
-The Board approved 10 sesonal liquor license renewals.
-The Board approved a grant agreement for $5000 for the completion of the Gitch Gammi State Trail which included a $5000 match to be paid equally by Cook County, Lake County and the Gitch Gami Trail Association.
-The Board approved a contract with Pro-West and Associates for GIS address point data development to be paid with funds allocated from the Title III USFS SRS funds.
-The County Board agreed to send a letter of support for the grant application being made to the MN Historical Society for Historical and Cultural Legacy grant funds to purchase and stabilize the historic Bally Blacksmith Shop in Grand Marais.
Closed Session of the Cook County Board of Commissioners
Attorney Dyan Ebert of Quinlivan and Hughes was present for a closed session of the Cook County Board of Commissioners pursuant to client/attorney privilege to discuss strategy regarding threatened litigation by Tim Scannell.
Work Session with County Highway Department
The County Board and the Highway Department agree that quarterly work sessions would help the Board understand Highway Department operations and enable better decision-making. This first of these work sessions was held this afternoon and included 2013 Summer Projects, Capital Improvements, Staffing Issues, City Maintenance Agreement, and Event Permits.
Meeting Minutes
Formal meetings minutes may be obtained by going to the Cook County website or by calling Board Secretary Janet Simonen at 218-387-3602. A video of this meeting in its entirety is available by going to Boreal.TV.
Public Comment
Jerome Brandt came before the Board to express his opposition to an X-ray machine and additional deputies in the Courthouse. He stated his fears that if this happens, the County Board (and other Boards) will change from being helpful, kind and considerate to being arrogant bullies. Brandt asked for mercy on the poor and no extravagant spending.
MN Counties Insurance Trust (MCIT)
Jeff Holubar of MCIT came before the Board to present the 2013 MCIT report to Cook County. MCIT is a joint powers entity made up of counties and associated public entities that pool resources to provide property, casualty and workers' compensation coverage to members.
Holubar reported that Cook County's 2013 cost is $137,529, up approximately 40% over the past 3 years. Rates are based on a formula that uses the frequency and severity of work-related injuries and illnesses. Holubar also reported that 31.2% of Cook County employees use the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), a voluntary program that provides access to professional counselors for support and advice on personal issues that may affect an employee's work performance.
State-wide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) Coordinator, Kristin Wharton
SHIP Coordinator, Kristin Wharton, updated the Board on the Active Living Summit held last Fall. The Board also agreed to her request for a letter of support from the County for Sawtooth Mountain Clinic's application to Prevention MN for the "Active Living for All" grant project.
Highway Department, County Engineer David Betts
The Board approved a special event permit for the Ham Run. The Board also accepted the bids as submitted for the CSAH 7 Rehabilitation Project and authorized awarding the project to low bidder Northland Constructors for $2,876,217.14. County Engineer David Betts and Assistant County Engineer Sam Muntean are working to reduce the cost of this project by approximately $200,000. The CSAH 7 Project is slated to begin in June with completion in August of this year.
Office of Planning and Zoning (OPZ) and Solid Waste Officer, Tim Nelson
The Board passed a resolution to continue the Lakeshore Septic System Compliance Program with inspections on (3) area lakes: McFarland, Greenwood, Tom. Cook County, with the assistance of SWCD, has been awarded a Clean Water Legacy grant to fund the inspection of these lakes. Cook County SSTS Loan Ordinance #60 was passed in 2012 authorizing Cook County to establish and administer a low interest public loan program that assists private landowners to finance site evaluation, pumping, design, installation, repair, and replacement of Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems.
The Board authorized hiring Gary Kimball at the Tofte Transfer Station as recommended by Tim Nelson.
The Board authorized writing a letter of support to the appropriate State Legislators in support of H.F. 865 and S.F. 639 to enable manufacturers of carpets, batteries, and paint to implement end-of-life management systems for their products.
Cook County Family YMCA Project
Wade Cole, ORB Management, presented the re-bid results for Earthwork and Aluminum Storefronts/Glazing and the County Board authorized making awards to the low bidders. The costs for the Earthwork and the Aluminum Storefronts/Glazing both went down.
Cole informed the Board that the original low bid for the Painting and Coatings was incomplete. The Board directed ORB to re-bid the Painting and Coatings.
The Board also directed Cole to get bids for HVAC System Commissioning which is the process of assuring that the HVAC system and its components are installed, tested, operated and maintained properly. Once these bids are received the Board will consider authorizing this work.
Courthouse Security
Sheriff Mark Falk, supported by several members of the Courthouse Security Committee, presented a choice of (2) written resolutions on Courthouse Security for consideration by the County Board. These recommendations were based heavily on the professional recommendation of Steven Swenson of CJES Security and 15 months of study by the Courthouse Security Committee. Both are summarized below:
Resolution #1: 2 full-time deputies for Courthouse security. Full screening of persons and bags entering the Courthouse during regular Courthouse hours. Purchase of equipment necessary to screen bags and persons (X-ray and Metal Detection).
Resolution #2: 1 full-time deputy for Courthouse security. Full screening of persons and bags entering the Courthouse during any District Court hours or other highly-charged/high-risk events n the Courthouse at the discretion of the Sheriff. Purchase of equipment necessary to screen bags and persons (X-ray and Metal Detection).
The Board then engaged in a lengthy, passionate, complex and difficult debate about Courthouse Security, but did not approve either resolution.
Ultimately, the Board did pass (3) separate motions in a very fragmented and bumpy manner:
Motion 1. Authorized Sheriff Falk to obtain a used X-ray machine from FBI Office in Duluth at no charge; or if not available or not in working order, authorization to purchase an X-ray machine. (Passed 3-2 with Hakes and Hall opposed because motion did not address staffing or Metal Detector.)
After the motion to obtain the X-ray machine passed, Commissioner Hakes made a motion to support Resolution #2. Jan Hall made the second, but it failed 2-3 with Doo-Kirk, Gamble, and Martinson opposed. (Note that both Commissioners Hall and Hakes were members of the Courthouse Security Committee.)
Motion 2. Authorized Sheriff Falk to hire part-time licensed peace officer to staff the X-ray machine on Court Days. (Passed 3-2 with Hakes and Hall opposed because Sheriff Falk was not consulted.)
Motion 3. Authorized Sheriff Falk to purchase a Metal Detector. (Passed 5-0)
Personal Note on Courthouse Security--
I fully supported the recommendations of Sheriff Falk, the Courthouse Security Committee, Security Expert Steve Swenson of CJES, and the teachings of security trainings I have attended. I believe that Security decisions are best made by those responsible for providing that security, namely the law and order of our County, and should be based on the knowledge and recommendations of those professionals with security expertise.
Beyond that, I believe that NOT taking the recommendations given to the County Board exposes the County to enormous financial liability. This financial liability is in addition to the costs being incurred from the December 15, 2011 shooting (security enhancements to the building, lost work and lost productivity, increased insurance costs, training, workman's comp, staff time working on security issues, health care, Employee Assistance Program services, building cleanup, additional attorney services, etc.).
But far and above all, I'm concerned about the safety and welfare of all those who enter the Cook County Courthouse including members of the Public, County employees, jurors, elected officials, Court Administration and Courtroom Staff, Judges, defendants, victims, witnesses, probation officers and law enforcement.
I was in the Courthouse during the shooting event, I've heard the complete 9-1-1 tape and viewed the photographs of the incident. I've had detailed conversations with the victims, the employees involved in the struggle, and many of the employees in the building at the time of the shooting. I heard the gun shots, the cries for help, and the struggle. I witnessed the chaos and the extreme pain and anguish suffered by the families of those involved and the employees present. Like others, I am forever changed.
I've been accused of being too emotional in my decision-making about Courthouse Security. Yes, I am emotional about it. More importantly, I am aware of what can happen when we least expect it. It can and did happen to us. I don't ever want this to happen to anybody again and will do what I can to ensure that it doesn't.
Certainly, there is no promise that by implementing the proposed security recommendations that we will never have another incident of violence in our Courthouse. But, we need to take all reasonable steps to minimize the possibility of another Courthouse shooting or act of violence. If we do this, we have a good chance of preventing the next emotionally charged person from making a bad decision for him or herself. If we do this, we have a good chance of preventing harm to those who enter the Courthouse. If we do this, we will know that we've done all that we reasonably can. I cannot, in good conscience, support anything less.
Miscellaneous
-The Board approved 10 sesonal liquor license renewals.
-The Board approved a grant agreement for $5000 for the completion of the Gitch Gammi State Trail which included a $5000 match to be paid equally by Cook County, Lake County and the Gitch Gami Trail Association.
-The Board approved a contract with Pro-West and Associates for GIS address point data development to be paid with funds allocated from the Title III USFS SRS funds.
-The County Board agreed to send a letter of support for the grant application being made to the MN Historical Society for Historical and Cultural Legacy grant funds to purchase and stabilize the historic Bally Blacksmith Shop in Grand Marais.
Closed Session of the Cook County Board of Commissioners
Attorney Dyan Ebert of Quinlivan and Hughes was present for a closed session of the Cook County Board of Commissioners pursuant to client/attorney privilege to discuss strategy regarding threatened litigation by Tim Scannell.
Work Session with County Highway Department
The County Board and the Highway Department agree that quarterly work sessions would help the Board understand Highway Department operations and enable better decision-making. This first of these work sessions was held this afternoon and included 2013 Summer Projects, Capital Improvements, Staffing Issues, City Maintenance Agreement, and Event Permits.
Meeting Minutes
Formal meetings minutes may be obtained by going to the Cook County website or by calling Board Secretary Janet Simonen at 218-387-3602. A video of this meeting in its entirety is available by going to Boreal.TV.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
March 12 County Board Meeting: Blacksmith Shop, Courthouse Security, Staffing
Board Chair Jan Hall was absent due to illness so Vice-Chair Bruce Martinson called the meeting to order. Also present were Commissioners Heidi Doo-Kirk, Garry Gamble and Sue Hakes, Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers, Personnel Director Janet Simonen and Assistant County Attorney Molly Hicken.
Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to address the County Board.
Cook County Historical Society
The County Board voted 4-0 to work with the Cook County Historical Society to purchase Bill Bally's Blacksmith Shop, an historical landmark in Grand Marais. The Board approved a purchase agreement offer for $130,000 hopefully to be paid with grant funds from the MN Historical Society. In an effort to minimize any liability from environmental contamination on this site, the County had a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment done per MPCA protocol. As a result of this test, the Seller has agreed to remove all known outside tanks on the property and seal & cap the existing well. Both Tim Nelson, Director of the Office of Planning and Zoning, and Tim Scannell, County Attorney, provided a written summary for the County Board in which they stated that they "remain confident that the County would be adequately protected in the future should we determine to accept the Phase I report and continue with the property acquisition in partnership with the Historical Society without requiring a Phase II assessment". It is the County's intention to transfer ownership of this property to the Historical Society in 5 years.
Law Enforcement, Sheriff Mark Falk
The Board voted to accept the 2013 State of MN Annual County Boat and Water Safety Grant Agreement in the amount of $12,944. These funds will be used for personnel costs, supplies and equipment related to boat and water safety and patrol.
The Board approved the purchase of (5) squad cars at a cost of $154,539 plus ~$10-15,000 per squad for equipment and upfit. This purchase is consistent with the Law Enforcement policy to trade cars with over 85,000 miles and will be paid for from the Sheriff's car reserve fund. This purchasing policy has been in place for several years, allowing for consistent budgeting and ensuring that equipment meets necessary performance standards for Law Enforcement.
The Board approved the purchase of 12 Tactical Shields to enhance officer safety in tactical responses including situations with active shooters, barricaded suspects and high risk entry. The cost for the shields is $34,200 and is in the 2013 budget.
The Board authorized Law Enforcement to use the Cook County Courthouse April 5-7 (after regular work hours) for active shooter training with the US Border Patrol. Friday evening would include classroom instruction and April 6-7 would be hands on training with simunitions. Special notice will be given to all employees of this event, the building will be locked and notices will be posted on entrance doors.
Sheriff Falk and IT Director Danna MacKenzie gave the Board an update on the progress of implementing ARMER in Cook County.
Cook County Courthouse Security
A Courthouse Security Committee was formed after the December 2011 shooting in the County Attorney's office. Many recommendations from the Courthouse Security Committee were implemented in 2012 including: enhanced security in the County Attorney office, enhanced security in the Courtroom and access hallways and conference rooms, limiting entrance to the Courthouse to one door, signage disallowing weapons, employee safety training and drills, adjustments to the floorplan, lockers in Probation, etc.
In addition, Steve Swenson of the Center for Executive Judicial Security (CJES), was contracted to do a Safety Assessment for the Cook County Courthouse. Based on many hours of discussion and deliberation on the CJES recomendations, the Security Committee recommended again on 3/12 the following security enhancements for the Courthouse: X-ray Metal Detector at the Courthouse entrance, duress buttons and security cameras, county-wide paging system, keycard access control system. In addition the Committee recommended duress buttons and security cameras at the Community Center and the Highway Department.
The County Board discussed these recommendations and authorized Brian Silence to proceed on all recommendations with the exception of the X-ray Metal Detector at the Courthouse entrance. Installation of an X-ray Metal Detector will be discussed at an April 9 Work Session of the County Board. Installation of an X-ray Metal Detector was the #1 recommendation from Steve Swenson of CJES, but it is also the most expensive because it requires the attendance of additional law enforcement personnel. However, it was also noted that the December 2011 shooting incident was very costly to the County in a multitude of ways; any future incidents would be very expensive as well.
PUBLIC HEARING: Schroeder Property Survey
A public hearing was held for all interested parties to appear and be heard regarding the assessment of resurvey costs in Sections 7, 8, 9 17 and 18 all in Township 58 North, Range 5 West. After the hearing, the Board moved to establish the costs at $600 for 10-20-30 acre lots and $17.6556/acre for landowners with 40 combined acres of more.
Firewise Committee
Based on the recommendation of the Firewise Committee, the Board approved George Carlson as a vendor to install water-front and non-water front sprinkler systems under the FEMA grant for this work.
Irish Creek Winter Maintenance Subordinate Service District
The Cook County Board of Commissioners will hold a Public Hearing to consider a resolution to withdraw the Irish Creek Winter Maintenance Subordinate Service District and to discontinue the snowplowing service provided within the service district. The Public Hearing will be held on June 25, 2013 at 10:30 am in the County Commissioner's Room at the Courthouse. Notice of this Hearing has been published and sent to each property owner paying a share of the costs.
Cook County Local Energy (CCLEP) Project
George Wilkes and Paul Nelson of CCLEP, along with Mark Spurr of FVB Energy came before the Board to ask the County Board to do two things: 1) release funding for the Step 2 Study for Biomass District Heating in Grand Marais, and 2) provide a letter of intent that expresses the County Board's non-binding interest in becoming an Initial Customer of the prospective district heating system for the following County buildings: Courthouse, existing Community Center, new YMCA facility, County Garages 1 & 2, and the Law Enforcement Center. After an overview and discussion of the Step 1 Study results, the Board approved 3-1 (Gamble opposed) the release of $243,000 of One Percent Sales Tax Funds that had been reserved for the Step 2 Study. It should be noted that this decision was NOT to approve or disapprove of a Biomass District Heat Plant in Grand Marais. That decision will ultimately be made by the City of Grand Marais PUC as they are currently slated to build and manage the facility should it prove viable.
Maple Hill Gravel Pit Operations
Highway Engineer David Betts and Maintenance Supervisor Russell Klegstad presented their report regarding the operations and environmental impacts of the Maple Hill Gravel Pit. This pit consists of upper and lower pits that are joined by a steep and dangerous roadway. Current access to both pits is from the north on CR54, just past the Maple Hill Church. The Maple Hill Pit is an important clay mining operation for Cook County and has been in operation since circa 1980. Betts and Klegstad are recommending the County purchase a ~10 acre parcel of land to build a road that will provide safer and shorter access to the lower Maple Hill Pit. The current plan has been presented to the MPCA and verbal go-ahead given.
Vice-Chair Bruce Martinson opened the discussion up to several members of the Public for comment: William Kloster, Rob Nelson, Mike Gilquist, George Humphrey and Steve Benson. Most of the public comment expressed was concern about erosion, potential contamination of the water table, runoff into the feeder creeks for the Little Devil Track River, and costs.
CLOSED SESSION: Land Purchase Agreement
The County Board held a closed session to discuss the potential purchase of ~10 acre parcel from Hedstrom Lumber Company for building a new access road to the Maple Hill Pit.
After the closed session a motion was moved forward by a 3-1 vote (Doo-Kirk opposed) to approve a purchase agreement for the purchase of ~10 acres from Hedstrom Lumber Company for $45,000 subject to the Seller providing a survey at the Seller's cost, an acceptable appraisal, marketable title, and review by the County Attorney. A second motion was passed 4-0 to hire Forsythe Appraisals to do the appraisal of this property.
Rocksteady Running Fall and Spring Trail Races
The County Board approved special event permits for both the Spring and Fall Rocksteady Running Trail Races. These events will be held May 18-19 and September 6-7, all in 2013.
Cook County Water Plan Advisory Committee
The Board approved the citizen appointment of Chuck Futterer to the Water Plan Advisory Committee as recommended by the Committee.
County Assessor's Staffing
The County Board authorized a new 35-hour week Assessor's Technical Clerk position subject to a job description review. The vote passed 3-1 (Doo-Kirk opposed). The MN Department of Revenue has requested a 5-year plan that demonstrates how Cook County will come into compliance with the assessing requirements of the Department of Revenue. The mandate for doing an on-site review of each property every 5 years is not being met in Cook County, a situation that needs to be corrected to ensure fair and equitable assessments of private property and avoid possible intervention by the Department of Revenue. This new position was approved for 5-years with the potential to add a 6th year based on a 5-year review.
The Board also passed a motion to assess the overall staffing of the County and will use counties with similar demographics as one comparison tool in this assessment.
Courthouse Office Space
The County Board created a Space Subcommittee several months ago to recommend a Courthouse Floorplan that would accomodate two major goals: 1) Safety enhancements, and 2) Creating a space for the IT Department. The County Board approved the Space Committee's recommended Courthouse Floorplan and authorized Maintenance Director Brian Silence to get quotes and begin the work. In an effort to minimize the disruption to the business of the County, these changes may take several months to complete.
Cook County Family YMCA Project
The Board voted to accept ORB's recommendation to engage in a contract with Fabcon Precast. Fabcon Precast was the only company to submit a proposal for the Precast rebid. This contract will be reviewed by the County Attorney.
Meeting Minutes
A complete copy of the official meeting minutes is available on the Cook County website or by calling Janet Simonen at 218/387-3602. A video of this entire meeting may be viewed by going to Boreal.TV.
Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to address the County Board.
Cook County Historical Society
Law Enforcement, Sheriff Mark Falk
The Board voted to accept the 2013 State of MN Annual County Boat and Water Safety Grant Agreement in the amount of $12,944. These funds will be used for personnel costs, supplies and equipment related to boat and water safety and patrol.
The Board approved the purchase of (5) squad cars at a cost of $154,539 plus ~$10-15,000 per squad for equipment and upfit. This purchase is consistent with the Law Enforcement policy to trade cars with over 85,000 miles and will be paid for from the Sheriff's car reserve fund. This purchasing policy has been in place for several years, allowing for consistent budgeting and ensuring that equipment meets necessary performance standards for Law Enforcement.
The Board approved the purchase of 12 Tactical Shields to enhance officer safety in tactical responses including situations with active shooters, barricaded suspects and high risk entry. The cost for the shields is $34,200 and is in the 2013 budget.
The Board authorized Law Enforcement to use the Cook County Courthouse April 5-7 (after regular work hours) for active shooter training with the US Border Patrol. Friday evening would include classroom instruction and April 6-7 would be hands on training with simunitions. Special notice will be given to all employees of this event, the building will be locked and notices will be posted on entrance doors.
Sheriff Falk and IT Director Danna MacKenzie gave the Board an update on the progress of implementing ARMER in Cook County.
Cook County Courthouse Security
A Courthouse Security Committee was formed after the December 2011 shooting in the County Attorney's office. Many recommendations from the Courthouse Security Committee were implemented in 2012 including: enhanced security in the County Attorney office, enhanced security in the Courtroom and access hallways and conference rooms, limiting entrance to the Courthouse to one door, signage disallowing weapons, employee safety training and drills, adjustments to the floorplan, lockers in Probation, etc.
In addition, Steve Swenson of the Center for Executive Judicial Security (CJES), was contracted to do a Safety Assessment for the Cook County Courthouse. Based on many hours of discussion and deliberation on the CJES recomendations, the Security Committee recommended again on 3/12 the following security enhancements for the Courthouse: X-ray Metal Detector at the Courthouse entrance, duress buttons and security cameras, county-wide paging system, keycard access control system. In addition the Committee recommended duress buttons and security cameras at the Community Center and the Highway Department.
The County Board discussed these recommendations and authorized Brian Silence to proceed on all recommendations with the exception of the X-ray Metal Detector at the Courthouse entrance. Installation of an X-ray Metal Detector will be discussed at an April 9 Work Session of the County Board. Installation of an X-ray Metal Detector was the #1 recommendation from Steve Swenson of CJES, but it is also the most expensive because it requires the attendance of additional law enforcement personnel. However, it was also noted that the December 2011 shooting incident was very costly to the County in a multitude of ways; any future incidents would be very expensive as well.
PUBLIC HEARING: Schroeder Property Survey
A public hearing was held for all interested parties to appear and be heard regarding the assessment of resurvey costs in Sections 7, 8, 9 17 and 18 all in Township 58 North, Range 5 West. After the hearing, the Board moved to establish the costs at $600 for 10-20-30 acre lots and $17.6556/acre for landowners with 40 combined acres of more.
Firewise Committee
Based on the recommendation of the Firewise Committee, the Board approved George Carlson as a vendor to install water-front and non-water front sprinkler systems under the FEMA grant for this work.
Irish Creek Winter Maintenance Subordinate Service District
The Cook County Board of Commissioners will hold a Public Hearing to consider a resolution to withdraw the Irish Creek Winter Maintenance Subordinate Service District and to discontinue the snowplowing service provided within the service district. The Public Hearing will be held on June 25, 2013 at 10:30 am in the County Commissioner's Room at the Courthouse. Notice of this Hearing has been published and sent to each property owner paying a share of the costs.
Cook County Local Energy (CCLEP) Project
George Wilkes and Paul Nelson of CCLEP, along with Mark Spurr of FVB Energy came before the Board to ask the County Board to do two things: 1) release funding for the Step 2 Study for Biomass District Heating in Grand Marais, and 2) provide a letter of intent that expresses the County Board's non-binding interest in becoming an Initial Customer of the prospective district heating system for the following County buildings: Courthouse, existing Community Center, new YMCA facility, County Garages 1 & 2, and the Law Enforcement Center. After an overview and discussion of the Step 1 Study results, the Board approved 3-1 (Gamble opposed) the release of $243,000 of One Percent Sales Tax Funds that had been reserved for the Step 2 Study. It should be noted that this decision was NOT to approve or disapprove of a Biomass District Heat Plant in Grand Marais. That decision will ultimately be made by the City of Grand Marais PUC as they are currently slated to build and manage the facility should it prove viable.
Maple Hill Gravel Pit Operations
Highway Engineer David Betts and Maintenance Supervisor Russell Klegstad presented their report regarding the operations and environmental impacts of the Maple Hill Gravel Pit. This pit consists of upper and lower pits that are joined by a steep and dangerous roadway. Current access to both pits is from the north on CR54, just past the Maple Hill Church. The Maple Hill Pit is an important clay mining operation for Cook County and has been in operation since circa 1980. Betts and Klegstad are recommending the County purchase a ~10 acre parcel of land to build a road that will provide safer and shorter access to the lower Maple Hill Pit. The current plan has been presented to the MPCA and verbal go-ahead given.
Vice-Chair Bruce Martinson opened the discussion up to several members of the Public for comment: William Kloster, Rob Nelson, Mike Gilquist, George Humphrey and Steve Benson. Most of the public comment expressed was concern about erosion, potential contamination of the water table, runoff into the feeder creeks for the Little Devil Track River, and costs.
CLOSED SESSION: Land Purchase Agreement
The County Board held a closed session to discuss the potential purchase of ~10 acre parcel from Hedstrom Lumber Company for building a new access road to the Maple Hill Pit.
After the closed session a motion was moved forward by a 3-1 vote (Doo-Kirk opposed) to approve a purchase agreement for the purchase of ~10 acres from Hedstrom Lumber Company for $45,000 subject to the Seller providing a survey at the Seller's cost, an acceptable appraisal, marketable title, and review by the County Attorney. A second motion was passed 4-0 to hire Forsythe Appraisals to do the appraisal of this property.
Rocksteady Running Fall and Spring Trail Races
The County Board approved special event permits for both the Spring and Fall Rocksteady Running Trail Races. These events will be held May 18-19 and September 6-7, all in 2013.
Cook County Water Plan Advisory Committee
The Board approved the citizen appointment of Chuck Futterer to the Water Plan Advisory Committee as recommended by the Committee.
County Assessor's Staffing
The County Board authorized a new 35-hour week Assessor's Technical Clerk position subject to a job description review. The vote passed 3-1 (Doo-Kirk opposed). The MN Department of Revenue has requested a 5-year plan that demonstrates how Cook County will come into compliance with the assessing requirements of the Department of Revenue. The mandate for doing an on-site review of each property every 5 years is not being met in Cook County, a situation that needs to be corrected to ensure fair and equitable assessments of private property and avoid possible intervention by the Department of Revenue. This new position was approved for 5-years with the potential to add a 6th year based on a 5-year review.
The Board also passed a motion to assess the overall staffing of the County and will use counties with similar demographics as one comparison tool in this assessment.
Courthouse Office Space
The County Board created a Space Subcommittee several months ago to recommend a Courthouse Floorplan that would accomodate two major goals: 1) Safety enhancements, and 2) Creating a space for the IT Department. The County Board approved the Space Committee's recommended Courthouse Floorplan and authorized Maintenance Director Brian Silence to get quotes and begin the work. In an effort to minimize the disruption to the business of the County, these changes may take several months to complete.
Cook County Family YMCA Project
The Board voted to accept ORB's recommendation to engage in a contract with Fabcon Precast. Fabcon Precast was the only company to submit a proposal for the Precast rebid. This contract will be reviewed by the County Attorney.
Meeting Minutes
A complete copy of the official meeting minutes is available on the Cook County website or by calling Janet Simonen at 218/387-3602. A video of this entire meeting may be viewed by going to Boreal.TV.
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Cook County Board of Commissioners Meeting: ATVs, Blacksmith Shop, YMCA
Board Chair Jan Hall, along with Commissioners Heidi Doo-Kirk, Garry Gamble, Sue Hakes and Bruce Martinson were all present for today's County Board Meeting. Also present were Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers, County Attorney Tim Scannell, and Personnel Director/Board Secretary Janet Simonen.
Public Comment
No member of the County Board opted to come before the County Board.
Superior Cycling Association
Adam Harju of the Superior Cycling Association came before the Board to request the County support the Federal Recreational Trails Program Grant application for extending mountain bike trails in Cook County. The Board agreed unanimously to be the applicant for this grant and ultimately, the fiscal agent. This project proposes to construct an extension of Cook County Mountain Bike "single track" trails by (2) miles at the Pincushion Recreation Area and (2) miles at the Britton Peak Trailhead for a total of (4) additional miles.
Cook County Historical Society (CCHS)
Cook County Historical Society Director Carrie McHugh and President Gene Erickson came before the County Board to request the County support the Historical Society (CCHS) in its quest to purchase Bally's Blacksmith Shop property for $130,000. Specifically, they requested the County be the Purchaser of the Blacksmith Shop as recommended by the Minnesota Historical Society (MHS) in order to be more successful in the pursuit of funding from the MHS. The County Board authorized entering into a Purchase Agreement with the owners of the Blacksmith Shop for $130,000 with $2000 earnest money, subject to a Phase I Environmental test, successful financing by grant or fundraising, marketable title and County Attorney's Office review. Time is of the essence in getting the Purchase Agreement in place as the grants are due March 15, 2013.
Schroeder Survey
Contracted County Surveyor Wayne Hensche came before the County Board to present the completed survey information, plat, costs and proposed assessments for the Schroeder Survey which was requested by private landowners and approved by both the Schroeder Town Board and Cook County Board. The Board approved the plat and set the Public Hearing for March 12, 2013 at 10 am to assess the survey expense. If you have questions or need information about this process, feel free to contact County Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers at 387-3646.
Norpine Trail Association
The Board agreed to support a grant application to the MN DNR for the Federal Recreational Trail Program 2013 Equipment Grant Application. The County agreed to act as fiscal agent should this grant be awarded to Cook County. A 25% match is being provided by Cascade Lodge and Solbakken Resort.
ARMER Radio Update
Information Systems Director Danna MacKenzie and Rowan Watkins, Sheriff Mark Falk and Deputy Leif Lunde came before the County Board to provide an update on Allied Radio Matrix for Emergency Response (ARMER) installation and use in Cook County. Current and future users of ARMER in Cook County include Law Enforcement, Highway Department, Grand Portage, Fire Departments. Indicators are good that Cook County will received partial funding from FEMA to help pay for radios for the volunteer fire departments. A County-wide Radio Users email list is being compiled so that all users may be kept informed about radio issues both as the ARMER project is implemented and operating.
Highway Department
Assistant County Engineer, Sam Muntean, came before the Board to request authorization to solicit bids for the CSAH 7 Rehabilitation project; the Board approved this request. This project will be paid for using State Aid funds. Muntean reported that the project is due to start in June 2013 and will take 10 weeks to complete. The type of work to be done includes culvert repairs and replacement, bituminous removal, bituminous surfacing, aggregate base, aggregate shouldering. This work is slated for CSAH 7 between Highway 61 and CSAH 6.
PUBLIC HEARING on Cook County ATV Ordinance
A Public Hearing was held to consider removal of the ATV Ordinance expiration/sunset provision. In addition, the Cook County Highway Engineer, David Betts, recommended the ATV Ordinance be changed to allow ATVs on the Gunflint Trail up to County Road 60. In the audience were approximately 20 people. Paul James spoke in favor of making the ATV Ordinance permanent. John Bottger said he commended the ATV riders and hadn't seen any problems. The Board voted unanimously to make the Ordinance permanent, expand riding on the Gunflint Trail up to County Road 60, and make some administrative changes to better identify roads.
Veteran's Services
Commissioner Sue Hakes reported that both she and County Veteran's Service Officer (VSO) Clarence Everson attended a meeting sponsored by ARDC in Duluth last Friday. The purpose of the meeting was to dialogue with other NE Minnesota County Commissioners and VSOs, ARDC Staff, MN Dot, MACV, and AEOA to identify common concerns for Veteran's living in rural MN. Most of the discussion focused on providing Veterans with better access to medical care whether it be through improved transportation, expanding CBOC medical facilities in the area, or restoring fee-based medical services. Hakes gave a short presentation about the recent FUTURES Workshop she attended at Camp Ripley to discuss Veteran's issues. The group is eager to move forward on this work and next steps are being identified at the local, State and Federal levels.
Assessor's Office Staffing Request
Jan Hall led a discussion regarding the need for additional staffing in the Assessor's Office. The Board discussed several options including a) hiring a full-time employee, and b) hiring a year-round employee for 28 hours/week and training an existing County employee to fill in 1 day/week. Hall recommended the subcommittee regroup with County Assessor Betty Schultz to discuss these options further.
Cook County Family YMCA Project
The County Board held a work session to discuss the Cook County Family YMCA. Also present were Attorney Ken Donovan from Fryberger, Tim Scannell, Braidy Powers, Janet Simonen, Wade Cole and Mark Kragenbring from ORB and Dan Miller from JLG Architects.
Wade Cole gave an overview of the changes to the floor plan and cost/scope reductions as recommended to the County Board by the CCFY Steering Committee. The Board approved the floor plan. They also reviewed the Bid Items to determine what work, if any, should be re-bid. After a lengthy discussion, the Board voted to re-bid (2) packages: Earthwork and Storefront. The remainder of the bids were approved to the low bidders contingent upon an acceptable contract which includes value engineering changes.
The CCFY Steering Committee passed a motion to "recommend that the County take any 1% funds unallocated to be held in reserve for the CCFY project and any outdoor county recreation projects as part of the Community Center project." Hakes brought this recommendation before the Board but it was voted down 2-3 (Aye: Hakes and Martinson, Nay: Doo-Kirk, Gamble, Hall).
Commissioner Hakes expressed her concern that the unallocated ~$500K of 1% funding be put in reserve until all existing 1% projects were completed and made this motion which passed unanimously. It was agreed that this reserve was not dedicated for any specific project.
Last note: The Steering Committee is working extremely hard to plan for the inclusion of a water slide at the opening of the facility. And, in response to community requests and feedback, they have re-prioritized bleachers in the gymnasium and will work hard to keep those in the plan.
Meeting Minutes
A copy of the official Meeting Minutes will be made available on the County Website or by calling Janet Simonen at 387-3602. A video of this meeting in its entirety may be viewed by going to Boreal.TV.
Public Comment
No member of the County Board opted to come before the County Board.
Superior Cycling Association
Adam Harju of the Superior Cycling Association came before the Board to request the County support the Federal Recreational Trails Program Grant application for extending mountain bike trails in Cook County. The Board agreed unanimously to be the applicant for this grant and ultimately, the fiscal agent. This project proposes to construct an extension of Cook County Mountain Bike "single track" trails by (2) miles at the Pincushion Recreation Area and (2) miles at the Britton Peak Trailhead for a total of (4) additional miles.
Cook County Historical Society (CCHS)
Cook County Historical Society Director Carrie McHugh and President Gene Erickson came before the County Board to request the County support the Historical Society (CCHS) in its quest to purchase Bally's Blacksmith Shop property for $130,000. Specifically, they requested the County be the Purchaser of the Blacksmith Shop as recommended by the Minnesota Historical Society (MHS) in order to be more successful in the pursuit of funding from the MHS. The County Board authorized entering into a Purchase Agreement with the owners of the Blacksmith Shop for $130,000 with $2000 earnest money, subject to a Phase I Environmental test, successful financing by grant or fundraising, marketable title and County Attorney's Office review. Time is of the essence in getting the Purchase Agreement in place as the grants are due March 15, 2013.
Schroeder Survey
Contracted County Surveyor Wayne Hensche came before the County Board to present the completed survey information, plat, costs and proposed assessments for the Schroeder Survey which was requested by private landowners and approved by both the Schroeder Town Board and Cook County Board. The Board approved the plat and set the Public Hearing for March 12, 2013 at 10 am to assess the survey expense. If you have questions or need information about this process, feel free to contact County Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers at 387-3646.
Norpine Trail Association
The Board agreed to support a grant application to the MN DNR for the Federal Recreational Trail Program 2013 Equipment Grant Application. The County agreed to act as fiscal agent should this grant be awarded to Cook County. A 25% match is being provided by Cascade Lodge and Solbakken Resort.
ARMER Radio Update
Information Systems Director Danna MacKenzie and Rowan Watkins, Sheriff Mark Falk and Deputy Leif Lunde came before the County Board to provide an update on Allied Radio Matrix for Emergency Response (ARMER) installation and use in Cook County. Current and future users of ARMER in Cook County include Law Enforcement, Highway Department, Grand Portage, Fire Departments. Indicators are good that Cook County will received partial funding from FEMA to help pay for radios for the volunteer fire departments. A County-wide Radio Users email list is being compiled so that all users may be kept informed about radio issues both as the ARMER project is implemented and operating.
Highway Department
Assistant County Engineer, Sam Muntean, came before the Board to request authorization to solicit bids for the CSAH 7 Rehabilitation project; the Board approved this request. This project will be paid for using State Aid funds. Muntean reported that the project is due to start in June 2013 and will take 10 weeks to complete. The type of work to be done includes culvert repairs and replacement, bituminous removal, bituminous surfacing, aggregate base, aggregate shouldering. This work is slated for CSAH 7 between Highway 61 and CSAH 6.
PUBLIC HEARING on Cook County ATV Ordinance
A Public Hearing was held to consider removal of the ATV Ordinance expiration/sunset provision. In addition, the Cook County Highway Engineer, David Betts, recommended the ATV Ordinance be changed to allow ATVs on the Gunflint Trail up to County Road 60. In the audience were approximately 20 people. Paul James spoke in favor of making the ATV Ordinance permanent. John Bottger said he commended the ATV riders and hadn't seen any problems. The Board voted unanimously to make the Ordinance permanent, expand riding on the Gunflint Trail up to County Road 60, and make some administrative changes to better identify roads.
Veteran's Services
Commissioner Sue Hakes reported that both she and County Veteran's Service Officer (VSO) Clarence Everson attended a meeting sponsored by ARDC in Duluth last Friday. The purpose of the meeting was to dialogue with other NE Minnesota County Commissioners and VSOs, ARDC Staff, MN Dot, MACV, and AEOA to identify common concerns for Veteran's living in rural MN. Most of the discussion focused on providing Veterans with better access to medical care whether it be through improved transportation, expanding CBOC medical facilities in the area, or restoring fee-based medical services. Hakes gave a short presentation about the recent FUTURES Workshop she attended at Camp Ripley to discuss Veteran's issues. The group is eager to move forward on this work and next steps are being identified at the local, State and Federal levels.
Assessor's Office Staffing Request
Jan Hall led a discussion regarding the need for additional staffing in the Assessor's Office. The Board discussed several options including a) hiring a full-time employee, and b) hiring a year-round employee for 28 hours/week and training an existing County employee to fill in 1 day/week. Hall recommended the subcommittee regroup with County Assessor Betty Schultz to discuss these options further.
Cook County Family YMCA Project
The County Board held a work session to discuss the Cook County Family YMCA. Also present were Attorney Ken Donovan from Fryberger, Tim Scannell, Braidy Powers, Janet Simonen, Wade Cole and Mark Kragenbring from ORB and Dan Miller from JLG Architects.
Wade Cole gave an overview of the changes to the floor plan and cost/scope reductions as recommended to the County Board by the CCFY Steering Committee. The Board approved the floor plan. They also reviewed the Bid Items to determine what work, if any, should be re-bid. After a lengthy discussion, the Board voted to re-bid (2) packages: Earthwork and Storefront. The remainder of the bids were approved to the low bidders contingent upon an acceptable contract which includes value engineering changes.
The CCFY Steering Committee passed a motion to "recommend that the County take any 1% funds unallocated to be held in reserve for the CCFY project and any outdoor county recreation projects as part of the Community Center project." Hakes brought this recommendation before the Board but it was voted down 2-3 (Aye: Hakes and Martinson, Nay: Doo-Kirk, Gamble, Hall).
Commissioner Hakes expressed her concern that the unallocated ~$500K of 1% funding be put in reserve until all existing 1% projects were completed and made this motion which passed unanimously. It was agreed that this reserve was not dedicated for any specific project.
Last note: The Steering Committee is working extremely hard to plan for the inclusion of a water slide at the opening of the facility. And, in response to community requests and feedback, they have re-prioritized bleachers in the gymnasium and will work hard to keep those in the plan.
Meeting Minutes
A copy of the official Meeting Minutes will be made available on the County Website or by calling Janet Simonen at 387-3602. A video of this meeting in its entirety may be viewed by going to Boreal.TV.
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
January 15, 2013 County Board Meeting: Committee Assignments, Capital Expenditures, MCIT Attorney
Board Chair Jan Hall, along with Commissioners Heidi Doo-Kirk, Garry Gamble, Sue Hakes and Bruce Martinson were all present for today's County Board Meeting. Also present was Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers and Personnel Director/Board Secretary Janet Simonen.
Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to come before the County Board.
Mark Falk, County Sheriff
The Board approved a request from Sheriff Falk to approve the Cook County PSAP Grant. This grant will reimburse Cook County for making the improvements necessary for migration from the existing 911 System to the Next Generation 911 System. Law Enforcement and Danna MacKenzie, IT Director, are working now to make these improvements.
Tim Nelson, Office of Planning and Zoning (OPZ) Director
As recommended by Tim Nelson, the County Board passed a motion authorizing members of the Planning Commission, Board of Adjustment, and Board of Commissioners to attend the regional land use legal workshop in Carlton County on February 8. The motion also authorized payment registration fees and mileage reimbursement as budgeted within the OPZ.
The Board authorized the purchase of an Excel EX-63 Horizontal Baler at a cost of $55,329 including freight, installation, training, and $15,000 trade-in value of the old baler. Funds for this purchase are in the 2013 Recycling Center capital purchases budget.
David Betts, County Highway Engineer
The Board approved a special event permit for the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon on Sunday, January 27, 2013. A route map and description was included in the application given to the Highway Department. The County will be named as an additional insured on the liability insurance. Race sponsors agree to pay all costs associated with traffic control, including personnel expenses. Later in the meeting, the Board gave permission to the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon to cross property owned by Cook County during the period of January 27 through January 20, 2013.
The County Board approved the purchase of (2) Mack GU713 tandem axle dump trucks at a cost of $230,871.73 each. The Board also approved the purchase of a 2013 GMC Crew Cab Pickup at a cost of $34,255.72. All (3) vehicles approved for purchases were budgeted to be paid from the Equipment Bond.
The Board authorized the Highway Department to advertise for snowplowing bids on behalf of the Irish Creek Subordinate Service District. Bids are due at 2:00 pm on February 13, 2013. The Board also discussed the negative feedback received from the Public (after the Public Hearing) regarding the Board's decision to approve the Irish Creek Subordinate Service District. In response to this, the Board scheduled a Public Hearing for June 25, 2013 at 10:30 am to consider withdrawing the Irish Creek Subordinate Service District.
Dusty Nelms, County Recorder
The Board approved a new Minnesota Counties Information Systems Joint and Cooperative Agreement as presented by Recorder Dusty Nelms. Nelms reported this document has been reviewed by County Attorney Tim Scannell and found to be acceptable.
Braidy Powers, Auditor-Treasurer
Several actions were taken at the request of Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers:
a) The Board approved the permit for lawful gambling activity as submitted by the Cook County Snowmobile Club for their annual "Fun Run" to be held on February 2 and the Landing at Devi Track.
b) A donation of $500 from North House Folk School to the Cook County GO Team for the development of a strategic economic plan was accepted by the County Board.
c) Powers distributed a copy of the Post-Issuance Debt Compliance Policy as part of the closing of the bond sale for sales tax and equipment bonds last November. This information was for Board awareness with no action required.
d) The Board approved an IRRRB grant received for $103,000 to help defray some of the costs for the new YMCA construction project. Community Center/Extension Director Diane Booth wrote the successful grant; her work and diligence was noted by Commissioner Hakes.
e) The Board passed a resolution appointing Dr. Sandy Stover as the Cook County Coroner..
f) Commissioners Hall and Gamble exchanged their liaison responsibilities with Hall as the liaison to the Assessor's Office and Gamble the liaison to the Recorder's Office.
Appointments to Boards and Commissions
Janet Simonen distributed the list of Board and Commission assignments as determined at last week's County Board Organizational Meeting. This information will be posted on the County website.
One Percent Projects
Commissioner Hakes reported on the construction progress of the Cook County Family YMCA; weekly reports are posted on the Cook County website. The last of the "noisy" work of blasting, jack hammering and hoe ramming should be complete after this coming weekend. Bids for the majority of the construction effort are due January 17.
Land Exchanges
County Assessor Betty Schulz asked the County Board if they wish to re-prioritize the land parcels being exchanged with the USFS. The Board determined they are not likely to make any changes until the appraisal is complete.
Commissioners Hakes and Martinson, Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers, and Assessor Betty Schulz attended a meeting in St. Louis County called by Senator Al Franken. Senator Franken was doing his due diligence in understanding the issues of St. Louis, Lake and Cook Counties with respect to the potential MN School Trust Land exchange.
Dyan Ebert, MCIT Attorney
Attorney Dyan Ebert of Minnesota Counties Intergovernmental Trust (MCIT) met with the County Board in an open session. This session was originally posted as a closed session in the event that the Board would be discussing non-public data or engaging in an attorney/client privileged discussion. However, Ebert explained that non-public data would not be discussed at this meeting and that attorney/client privilege did not apply at this time.
Ebert has been retained by the County Board to assist them in properly addressing and responding to allegations made against the elected Cook County Attorney. Ebert advised the County Board to let the process play out and to not take any unnecessary or inappropriate action. She said it is important to wait until the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) investigation is complete.
Meeting Minutes
A copy of the complete minutes from this meeting will be made available on the Cook County Website once they are typed and approved. You may also obtain a copy by calling Janet Simonen at 218/387-3602. A video of this entire meeting is available for viewing on Boreal.TV.
Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to come before the County Board.
Mark Falk, County Sheriff
The Board approved a request from Sheriff Falk to approve the Cook County PSAP Grant. This grant will reimburse Cook County for making the improvements necessary for migration from the existing 911 System to the Next Generation 911 System. Law Enforcement and Danna MacKenzie, IT Director, are working now to make these improvements.
Tim Nelson, Office of Planning and Zoning (OPZ) Director
As recommended by Tim Nelson, the County Board passed a motion authorizing members of the Planning Commission, Board of Adjustment, and Board of Commissioners to attend the regional land use legal workshop in Carlton County on February 8. The motion also authorized payment registration fees and mileage reimbursement as budgeted within the OPZ.
The Board authorized the purchase of an Excel EX-63 Horizontal Baler at a cost of $55,329 including freight, installation, training, and $15,000 trade-in value of the old baler. Funds for this purchase are in the 2013 Recycling Center capital purchases budget.
David Betts, County Highway Engineer
The Board approved a special event permit for the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon on Sunday, January 27, 2013. A route map and description was included in the application given to the Highway Department. The County will be named as an additional insured on the liability insurance. Race sponsors agree to pay all costs associated with traffic control, including personnel expenses. Later in the meeting, the Board gave permission to the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon to cross property owned by Cook County during the period of January 27 through January 20, 2013.
The County Board approved the purchase of (2) Mack GU713 tandem axle dump trucks at a cost of $230,871.73 each. The Board also approved the purchase of a 2013 GMC Crew Cab Pickup at a cost of $34,255.72. All (3) vehicles approved for purchases were budgeted to be paid from the Equipment Bond.
The Board authorized the Highway Department to advertise for snowplowing bids on behalf of the Irish Creek Subordinate Service District. Bids are due at 2:00 pm on February 13, 2013. The Board also discussed the negative feedback received from the Public (after the Public Hearing) regarding the Board's decision to approve the Irish Creek Subordinate Service District. In response to this, the Board scheduled a Public Hearing for June 25, 2013 at 10:30 am to consider withdrawing the Irish Creek Subordinate Service District.
Dusty Nelms, County Recorder
The Board approved a new Minnesota Counties Information Systems Joint and Cooperative Agreement as presented by Recorder Dusty Nelms. Nelms reported this document has been reviewed by County Attorney Tim Scannell and found to be acceptable.
Braidy Powers, Auditor-Treasurer
Several actions were taken at the request of Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers:
a) The Board approved the permit for lawful gambling activity as submitted by the Cook County Snowmobile Club for their annual "Fun Run" to be held on February 2 and the Landing at Devi Track.
b) A donation of $500 from North House Folk School to the Cook County GO Team for the development of a strategic economic plan was accepted by the County Board.
c) Powers distributed a copy of the Post-Issuance Debt Compliance Policy as part of the closing of the bond sale for sales tax and equipment bonds last November. This information was for Board awareness with no action required.
d) The Board approved an IRRRB grant received for $103,000 to help defray some of the costs for the new YMCA construction project. Community Center/Extension Director Diane Booth wrote the successful grant; her work and diligence was noted by Commissioner Hakes.
e) The Board passed a resolution appointing Dr. Sandy Stover as the Cook County Coroner..
f) Commissioners Hall and Gamble exchanged their liaison responsibilities with Hall as the liaison to the Assessor's Office and Gamble the liaison to the Recorder's Office.
Appointments to Boards and Commissions
Janet Simonen distributed the list of Board and Commission assignments as determined at last week's County Board Organizational Meeting. This information will be posted on the County website.
One Percent Projects
Commissioner Hakes reported on the construction progress of the Cook County Family YMCA; weekly reports are posted on the Cook County website. The last of the "noisy" work of blasting, jack hammering and hoe ramming should be complete after this coming weekend. Bids for the majority of the construction effort are due January 17.
Land Exchanges
County Assessor Betty Schulz asked the County Board if they wish to re-prioritize the land parcels being exchanged with the USFS. The Board determined they are not likely to make any changes until the appraisal is complete.
Commissioners Hakes and Martinson, Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers, and Assessor Betty Schulz attended a meeting in St. Louis County called by Senator Al Franken. Senator Franken was doing his due diligence in understanding the issues of St. Louis, Lake and Cook Counties with respect to the potential MN School Trust Land exchange.
Dyan Ebert, MCIT Attorney
Attorney Dyan Ebert of Minnesota Counties Intergovernmental Trust (MCIT) met with the County Board in an open session. This session was originally posted as a closed session in the event that the Board would be discussing non-public data or engaging in an attorney/client privileged discussion. However, Ebert explained that non-public data would not be discussed at this meeting and that attorney/client privilege did not apply at this time.
Ebert has been retained by the County Board to assist them in properly addressing and responding to allegations made against the elected Cook County Attorney. Ebert advised the County Board to let the process play out and to not take any unnecessary or inappropriate action. She said it is important to wait until the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) investigation is complete.
Meeting Minutes
A copy of the complete minutes from this meeting will be made available on the Cook County Website once they are typed and approved. You may also obtain a copy by calling Janet Simonen at 218/387-3602. A video of this entire meeting is available for viewing on Boreal.TV.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
County Board Meeting 10/23/12: Bonding, Budget, Tom Bakk & David Dill Visit
Board Chair Jan Hall and Commissioners Sue Hakes, Bruce Martinson and Fritz Sobanja were all present for today's County Board Meeting. Jim Johnson was absent. Also present were Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers and Personnel Director Janet Simonen
Public Comment
No members of the public opted to address the County Board.
Peace Scarf Gift
The County Board was given a very special gift today from the Scarves of Peace project. In her gift letter, Founder Karen Lohn shared this, "The scarf was braided by many hands, using strands blessed with peaceful intentions, contributed by diverse peoples from six continents. May you enjoy its beauty and unity of spirit, or regift to encircle another with warm wishes for peace and harmony." The County Board was really touched by this gesture and is planning to hang the scarf in a place of prominence in the County Board Room.
Multi-tenant Wireless Tower in Schroeder
The County Board agreed with the recommendation from the Planning Commission to approve a Conditional Use Permit allowing Allete, Inc., MN Towers, and AT&T to erect a 195-foot, multi-tenant communication facility on property owned by Allete and adjacent to Highway 61 in Schroeder. The parcel is contained within the Heavy Industrial zone district.
Highway Department
The County Board approved a capital purchase request from Maintenance Supervisor for a wheel puller for $1795.50. This tool will be used to remove rims in a secure manner.
Curling Club Lease Agreement
The County Board approved a lease agreement with the Cook County Curling Club for use of specified areas of the Cook County Community Center for Curling and related activities. The lease term begins October 15, 2012 and ends on March 31, 2013. The Curling Club will pay $2500/month.
Auditor-Treasurer, Braidy Powers, Miscellaneous Items
The County Board voted to approve a grant contract between the State of MN through its Commissioner of Public Safety, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management for $1,727,437.50 for waterfront and low water sprinkler installation. A match of $575,812.50 will be paid by the homeowners receiving the systems.
The County Board voted to accept an Emergency Management Performance Grant for 2012 in the amount of $15,481.00 as presented via Powers from Emergency Management Director Jim Wiinanen.
The Board gratefully accepted a donation to Search & Rescue from a Hovland resident for a successful rescue effort to find his wife.
The County Board approved several liquor license renewal applications, all subject to approval from the Sheriff, town board, liquor liability insurance, worker's compensation compliance, and compliance with local and state ordinances governing liquor licensing. The Board also approved several cigarette applications for license renewal.
CLOSED SESSION OF COUNTY BOARD
The Board Meeting was closed to discuss non-public health data of a county employee.
Sheriff Mark Falk, Law Enforcement
The County Board approved a request fro Sheriff Mark Falk to hire Chuck Anderson as a Deputy to begin work November 1, 2012.
ATV Ordinance Discussion
The County Board voted to schedule a Public Hearing for February 26, 2013 at 10:30 to consider making Cook County ATV Ordinance #54 permanent. The current Ordinance is set to expire on July 1, 2013. On 10/9/2012, Sheriff Falk reported from Law Enforcement, the DNR, and the Highway Department that there were no citations reported in 2011 and just one citation reported in 2012.
Emergency Management Handbook for Government Officials
Emergency Services Director, Jim Wiinanen, requested a worksession of the County Board to review the "Emergency Management Handbook for Government Officials". The Board agreed this was a good idea and it will be scheduled for early 2013 to include the new commissioner(s).
One Percent Sales Tax Projects
Commissioner Hakes and Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers requested a Special Meeting of the County Board to discuss the legal contracts for the Community Center. This Special Meeting will be held October 30 at 1:00 pm in the Commissioner's Room.
Capital Equipment Notes and Taxable Sales Tax Revenue Bonds
Vice President and Financial Advisor, Bruce Kimmel of Ehlers Financial presented a financial summary for the County to set two sales for November 27, 2012.
The first sale will be capital notes for the purchase of capital equipment for the purchase of capital equipment for public safety equipment, road construction and maintenance equipment, and for ARMER equipment in the amount of $2,175,000.
The second sale will be taxable general obligation sales tax revenue bonds in the amount of $9,660,000 for the construction of the Cook County Community Center to be managed by the YMCA as the Cook County Family YMCA.
Kimmel also presented the current "Sales Tax Project Spending and Financing Plan" for all of the One Percent Sales Tax Projects. Current sales tax collections and interest rates are favorable.
Review of 2013 Cook County Preliminary Budget and Funding Requests
The Board discussed the 2013 Budget; the preliminary levy was set for 5.76% and the Board is working to reduce that to 2-3%. The discussion resulted in some reduction of the levy due to increased revenues in Planning & Zoning and a projected reduction in the cost of the Taylor Lane road project. Also considered were reductions/postponements of Highway Department capital equipment, proceeds from the sale of tax forfeit property, and use of the County's fund balance.
As part of their budget discussion, the Board also talked about the EDA's request of $200,000, an increase of ~$51,000 from their 2012 levy. At yesterday's joint County/City/EDA Meeting the County expressed concerns about the EDA's lack of clear direction and planning. The EDA agreed, noting that they are in a period of defining their goals & objectives and waiting for information and direction from the GO Cook County work currently underway to identify the needs of small business and non-profits throughout the County. The County Board expressed concern about the requested increase in salary for Community Funding Solutions and the lack of having an EDA Director in place.
Discussion of County/State Issues with Senator Tom Bakk and Representative David Dill
The County Board welcomed Senator Bakk and Representative Dill to their meeting to discuss issues involving Cook County and the State Legislature. Topics discussed included funding for Veteran's Services, the Violence Prevention Center and Victims Advocacy Other issues discussed were Legacy Funding, Airport Runway Funding, elimination of Sales Tax for ARMER, costs of elections if Voter ID passes, Public Health and Human Services streamlining and equipment, and tax classifications of commercial businesses downtown Grand Marais.
It was good to get Cook County issues before these legislators.
Meeting Minutes
For a copy of meeting minutes from this meeting, call or email Janet Simonen at 218/387-3602 or janet.simonen@co.cook.mn.us. You may also get a copy by going to the County Website. You may also view the meeting in its entirety at Boreal.TV.
Public Comment
No members of the public opted to address the County Board.
Peace Scarf Gift
The County Board was given a very special gift today from the Scarves of Peace project. In her gift letter, Founder Karen Lohn shared this, "The scarf was braided by many hands, using strands blessed with peaceful intentions, contributed by diverse peoples from six continents. May you enjoy its beauty and unity of spirit, or regift to encircle another with warm wishes for peace and harmony." The County Board was really touched by this gesture and is planning to hang the scarf in a place of prominence in the County Board Room.
Multi-tenant Wireless Tower in Schroeder
The County Board agreed with the recommendation from the Planning Commission to approve a Conditional Use Permit allowing Allete, Inc., MN Towers, and AT&T to erect a 195-foot, multi-tenant communication facility on property owned by Allete and adjacent to Highway 61 in Schroeder. The parcel is contained within the Heavy Industrial zone district.
Highway Department
The County Board approved a capital purchase request from Maintenance Supervisor for a wheel puller for $1795.50. This tool will be used to remove rims in a secure manner.
Curling Club Lease Agreement
The County Board approved a lease agreement with the Cook County Curling Club for use of specified areas of the Cook County Community Center for Curling and related activities. The lease term begins October 15, 2012 and ends on March 31, 2013. The Curling Club will pay $2500/month.
Auditor-Treasurer, Braidy Powers, Miscellaneous Items
The County Board voted to approve a grant contract between the State of MN through its Commissioner of Public Safety, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management for $1,727,437.50 for waterfront and low water sprinkler installation. A match of $575,812.50 will be paid by the homeowners receiving the systems.
The County Board voted to accept an Emergency Management Performance Grant for 2012 in the amount of $15,481.00 as presented via Powers from Emergency Management Director Jim Wiinanen.
The Board gratefully accepted a donation to Search & Rescue from a Hovland resident for a successful rescue effort to find his wife.
The County Board approved several liquor license renewal applications, all subject to approval from the Sheriff, town board, liquor liability insurance, worker's compensation compliance, and compliance with local and state ordinances governing liquor licensing. The Board also approved several cigarette applications for license renewal.
CLOSED SESSION OF COUNTY BOARD
The Board Meeting was closed to discuss non-public health data of a county employee.
Sheriff Mark Falk, Law Enforcement
The County Board approved a request fro Sheriff Mark Falk to hire Chuck Anderson as a Deputy to begin work November 1, 2012.
ATV Ordinance Discussion
The County Board voted to schedule a Public Hearing for February 26, 2013 at 10:30 to consider making Cook County ATV Ordinance #54 permanent. The current Ordinance is set to expire on July 1, 2013. On 10/9/2012, Sheriff Falk reported from Law Enforcement, the DNR, and the Highway Department that there were no citations reported in 2011 and just one citation reported in 2012.
Emergency Management Handbook for Government Officials
Emergency Services Director, Jim Wiinanen, requested a worksession of the County Board to review the "Emergency Management Handbook for Government Officials". The Board agreed this was a good idea and it will be scheduled for early 2013 to include the new commissioner(s).
One Percent Sales Tax Projects
Commissioner Hakes and Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers requested a Special Meeting of the County Board to discuss the legal contracts for the Community Center. This Special Meeting will be held October 30 at 1:00 pm in the Commissioner's Room.
Capital Equipment Notes and Taxable Sales Tax Revenue Bonds
Vice President and Financial Advisor, Bruce Kimmel of Ehlers Financial presented a financial summary for the County to set two sales for November 27, 2012.
The first sale will be capital notes for the purchase of capital equipment for the purchase of capital equipment for public safety equipment, road construction and maintenance equipment, and for ARMER equipment in the amount of $2,175,000.
The second sale will be taxable general obligation sales tax revenue bonds in the amount of $9,660,000 for the construction of the Cook County Community Center to be managed by the YMCA as the Cook County Family YMCA.
Kimmel also presented the current "Sales Tax Project Spending and Financing Plan" for all of the One Percent Sales Tax Projects. Current sales tax collections and interest rates are favorable.
(Lunch Break Noon to 1:00 PM)
The Board discussed the 2013 Budget; the preliminary levy was set for 5.76% and the Board is working to reduce that to 2-3%. The discussion resulted in some reduction of the levy due to increased revenues in Planning & Zoning and a projected reduction in the cost of the Taylor Lane road project. Also considered were reductions/postponements of Highway Department capital equipment, proceeds from the sale of tax forfeit property, and use of the County's fund balance.
As part of their budget discussion, the Board also talked about the EDA's request of $200,000, an increase of ~$51,000 from their 2012 levy. At yesterday's joint County/City/EDA Meeting the County expressed concerns about the EDA's lack of clear direction and planning. The EDA agreed, noting that they are in a period of defining their goals & objectives and waiting for information and direction from the GO Cook County work currently underway to identify the needs of small business and non-profits throughout the County. The County Board expressed concern about the requested increase in salary for Community Funding Solutions and the lack of having an EDA Director in place.
Discussion of County/State Issues with Senator Tom Bakk and Representative David Dill
The County Board welcomed Senator Bakk and Representative Dill to their meeting to discuss issues involving Cook County and the State Legislature. Topics discussed included funding for Veteran's Services, the Violence Prevention Center and Victims Advocacy Other issues discussed were Legacy Funding, Airport Runway Funding, elimination of Sales Tax for ARMER, costs of elections if Voter ID passes, Public Health and Human Services streamlining and equipment, and tax classifications of commercial businesses downtown Grand Marais.
It was good to get Cook County issues before these legislators.
Meeting Minutes
For a copy of meeting minutes from this meeting, call or email Janet Simonen at 218/387-3602 or janet.simonen@co.cook.mn.us. You may also get a copy by going to the County Website. You may also view the meeting in its entirety at Boreal.TV.
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Human Services and County Board Meetings on October 16, 2012
Human Services Board Meeting
Human Services Board Chair Sue Hakes, along with Commissioners Jan Hall, Jim Johnson, Bruce Martinson and Fritz Sobanja were all present for the 10/16/2012 Board Meeting. Carla LaPointe and Jerry Lilja had excused absences. Also present was Sue Futterer, PHHS Director, and Janet Simonen, Personnel Director.
Committee Reports
Arrowhead Regional Corrections--Comissioners Hall and Sobanja reported that Cook County will host the ARC Board on Friday, 10/19/12.
Community Health Board--Commissioner Hall reported that the Community Health Board will be conducting a local Community Health Assessment and Planning session in Cook County on 10/22/12.
Health Care Planning Committee--Commissioner Johnson reported that the Hospital is working on plans to improve their facility. He also reported that a study has been funded to study mercury levels in Cook County, which are high.
North Shore Collaborative--At its last meeting, the NSC held a facilitated planning session to revisit its Mission, Goals and Structure. At this meeting a Ways & Means Committee was formed. The Collaborative will continue to work to position itself for effectiveness.
Child Support Report
Child Support Officer, Wendy Danielson, gave the HS Board an overview of the services she provides in the Child Support Program for Cook County. In her job, Danielson helps parents establish paternity and financial child support for the parents with physical custody. She currently has 218 open cases.
Danielson's work can get complex; she collaborates with county attorneys, human services staff, out-of-state child support agencies, private attorneys, magistrates, judges, court administration, state staff, law enforcement and probation. And, her performance is closely measured in (5) categories: 1) paternity establishment, 2) support establishment, 3) current collections, 4) arrears collections, and 5) cost effectiveness (ratio of dollars spent to dollars collected).
Cook County's continued high performance is important to Danielson; she works closely with Sue Futterer to continue to maintain high scores. Danielson says to achieve success in her job its important that she stay trained to keep up her expertise.
Financial Report
Income Maintenance and Fiscal Supervisor, Jan Parish, augmented Wendy Danielson's report with some financial information about the Child Support Program. She further explained the expenditures, revenues and incentive revenues in this program.
Parish also gave the Board an overview of the September 30, 2012 PHHS Budget. Generally speaking, the Department is on plan for this time of year.
Director's Report
PHHS Director, Sue Futterer, reported that several candidates have taken the tests necessary to apply for the open social worker and financial worker positions in PHHS.
Futterer was extremely pleased to share Governor Mark Dayton's recognition of Financial Workers and Case Aides and the important, complex work that they do. An Official Proclamation signed by the Governor will be framed and hung in the PHHS Department. This recognition was well deserved!
In other good news, Futterer reported that Minnesota will be receiving $1.2 Million for improvements to the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) also known as Food Support. Approximately 75% of this funding will be distributed to counties. Click here if you need information about getting Food Support.
Sue Futterer gave the Board a high-level overview on the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid Expansion and its impact to Minnesota and Cook County.
Futterer also announced the resignation of Social Worker Hilja Iverson which the Board accepted with regrets.
Cook County Board of Commissioners Meeting
Board Chair Jan Hall and Commissioners Hakes, Johnson, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for the 10/16/12 Board Meeting. Also present were Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers and Personnel Director/Board Secretary Janet Simonen.
Public Comment
No member of the public opted to come before the County Board.
Winter Maintenance for Subordinate Government Service District Roads
The County Board approved snowplowing bids for Evergreen Road, Mile O'Pine Road, Voyageur's Point and West Rosebush Lane with all awards going to the low bidder.
PUBLIC HEARING
A Public Hearing was held to consider making changes to the Cook County Fee Schedule for E911 signs and E911 sign posts. The change to these fees was approved by the Board.
Exterior Courthouse Lighting
The Board authorized purchase and installation of (2) light poles along the north sidewalk at the Courthouse as presented by Maintenance Director Brian Silence at a cost of $4838. These lights are being installed as a safety measure.
Proposed Wind Tower Ordinance Amendments
Office of Planning and Zoning Director, Tim Nelson, presented a copy of a proposed ordinance amendment to the wind tower portion of the Cook County Tower Facility Ordinance. The proposed amendment addresses Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWT). The County Board voted to approve a Public Hearing for this matter to be held before the Planning Commission on November 14, 2012 at a time to be determined by the Planning Commission.
Auditor-Treasurer, Braidy Powers, Miscellaneous Items
The Board accepted a donation of $55 to the Sherrif's Department and a power washer to Search & Rescue. The donation was given in appreciation of Search & Rescue finding missing canoeists on Brule Lake.
Braidy Powers led the County Board through a 3rd Quarter Review of the General Fund Budget. After adjustments for grants, the Net Actual Total is 63% of the Budgeted Total with 75% of the year completed.
The County Board set 10/23/12 from 1-3:00 to review the 2013 Budget as part of the regularly scheduled County Board Meeting.
One Percent Project Updates
Commissioner Hakes reported that legal documents between the County, City of Grand Marais, ISD166 and the YMCA are being finalized.
Other Meetings
Bruce Martinson reminded the Board of the Joint County and City of Grand Marais meeting with the EDA on Monday 10/22/12 at 3:00 pm at City Hall.
MN Senator Tom Bakk will be in attendance at the 10/23/12 Board Meeting. The County Board identified several priority issues to discuss with Senator Bakk including: Parks & Trails Legacy Funding, Cook County Airport runway extension safety issue, Veterans Services, Sales Tax on ARMER, costs associated with Voter ID if it passes, restoration to Violence Prevention funding.
Voter ID
The County Board voted unanimously to oppose the proposed Voter ID amendment. This was a business decision made on the part of the County Board because of the unknown implementation costs. The proposed Voter ID amendment language is vague and there is no clear understanding of how it will be implemented or what the costs will be.
Meeting Minutes
For complete minutes of the County Board Meetings contact Janet Simonen at 387-3602 or by going to the Cook County website. The meeting may also be viewed in its entirety at Boreal.TV.
Human Services Board Chair Sue Hakes, along with Commissioners Jan Hall, Jim Johnson, Bruce Martinson and Fritz Sobanja were all present for the 10/16/2012 Board Meeting. Carla LaPointe and Jerry Lilja had excused absences. Also present was Sue Futterer, PHHS Director, and Janet Simonen, Personnel Director.
Committee Reports
Arrowhead Regional Corrections--Comissioners Hall and Sobanja reported that Cook County will host the ARC Board on Friday, 10/19/12.
Community Health Board--Commissioner Hall reported that the Community Health Board will be conducting a local Community Health Assessment and Planning session in Cook County on 10/22/12.
Health Care Planning Committee--Commissioner Johnson reported that the Hospital is working on plans to improve their facility. He also reported that a study has been funded to study mercury levels in Cook County, which are high.
North Shore Collaborative--At its last meeting, the NSC held a facilitated planning session to revisit its Mission, Goals and Structure. At this meeting a Ways & Means Committee was formed. The Collaborative will continue to work to position itself for effectiveness.
Child Support Report
Child Support Officer, Wendy Danielson, gave the HS Board an overview of the services she provides in the Child Support Program for Cook County. In her job, Danielson helps parents establish paternity and financial child support for the parents with physical custody. She currently has 218 open cases.
Danielson's work can get complex; she collaborates with county attorneys, human services staff, out-of-state child support agencies, private attorneys, magistrates, judges, court administration, state staff, law enforcement and probation. And, her performance is closely measured in (5) categories: 1) paternity establishment, 2) support establishment, 3) current collections, 4) arrears collections, and 5) cost effectiveness (ratio of dollars spent to dollars collected).
Cook County's continued high performance is important to Danielson; she works closely with Sue Futterer to continue to maintain high scores. Danielson says to achieve success in her job its important that she stay trained to keep up her expertise.
Financial Report
Income Maintenance and Fiscal Supervisor, Jan Parish, augmented Wendy Danielson's report with some financial information about the Child Support Program. She further explained the expenditures, revenues and incentive revenues in this program.
Parish also gave the Board an overview of the September 30, 2012 PHHS Budget. Generally speaking, the Department is on plan for this time of year.
Director's Report
PHHS Director, Sue Futterer, reported that several candidates have taken the tests necessary to apply for the open social worker and financial worker positions in PHHS.
Futterer was extremely pleased to share Governor Mark Dayton's recognition of Financial Workers and Case Aides and the important, complex work that they do. An Official Proclamation signed by the Governor will be framed and hung in the PHHS Department. This recognition was well deserved!
In other good news, Futterer reported that Minnesota will be receiving $1.2 Million for improvements to the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) also known as Food Support. Approximately 75% of this funding will be distributed to counties. Click here if you need information about getting Food Support.
Sue Futterer gave the Board a high-level overview on the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid Expansion and its impact to Minnesota and Cook County.
Futterer also announced the resignation of Social Worker Hilja Iverson which the Board accepted with regrets.
Cook County Board of Commissioners Meeting
Board Chair Jan Hall and Commissioners Hakes, Johnson, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for the 10/16/12 Board Meeting. Also present were Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers and Personnel Director/Board Secretary Janet Simonen.
Public Comment
No member of the public opted to come before the County Board.
Winter Maintenance for Subordinate Government Service District Roads
The County Board approved snowplowing bids for Evergreen Road, Mile O'Pine Road, Voyageur's Point and West Rosebush Lane with all awards going to the low bidder.
PUBLIC HEARING
A Public Hearing was held to consider making changes to the Cook County Fee Schedule for E911 signs and E911 sign posts. The change to these fees was approved by the Board.
Exterior Courthouse Lighting
The Board authorized purchase and installation of (2) light poles along the north sidewalk at the Courthouse as presented by Maintenance Director Brian Silence at a cost of $4838. These lights are being installed as a safety measure.
Proposed Wind Tower Ordinance Amendments
Office of Planning and Zoning Director, Tim Nelson, presented a copy of a proposed ordinance amendment to the wind tower portion of the Cook County Tower Facility Ordinance. The proposed amendment addresses Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWT). The County Board voted to approve a Public Hearing for this matter to be held before the Planning Commission on November 14, 2012 at a time to be determined by the Planning Commission.
Auditor-Treasurer, Braidy Powers, Miscellaneous Items
The Board accepted a donation of $55 to the Sherrif's Department and a power washer to Search & Rescue. The donation was given in appreciation of Search & Rescue finding missing canoeists on Brule Lake.
Braidy Powers led the County Board through a 3rd Quarter Review of the General Fund Budget. After adjustments for grants, the Net Actual Total is 63% of the Budgeted Total with 75% of the year completed.
The County Board set 10/23/12 from 1-3:00 to review the 2013 Budget as part of the regularly scheduled County Board Meeting.
One Percent Project Updates
Commissioner Hakes reported that legal documents between the County, City of Grand Marais, ISD166 and the YMCA are being finalized.
Other Meetings
Bruce Martinson reminded the Board of the Joint County and City of Grand Marais meeting with the EDA on Monday 10/22/12 at 3:00 pm at City Hall.
MN Senator Tom Bakk will be in attendance at the 10/23/12 Board Meeting. The County Board identified several priority issues to discuss with Senator Bakk including: Parks & Trails Legacy Funding, Cook County Airport runway extension safety issue, Veterans Services, Sales Tax on ARMER, costs associated with Voter ID if it passes, restoration to Violence Prevention funding.
Voter ID
The County Board voted unanimously to oppose the proposed Voter ID amendment. This was a business decision made on the part of the County Board because of the unknown implementation costs. The proposed Voter ID amendment language is vague and there is no clear understanding of how it will be implemented or what the costs will be.
Meeting Minutes
For complete minutes of the County Board Meetings contact Janet Simonen at 387-3602 or by going to the Cook County website. The meeting may also be viewed in its entirety at Boreal.TV.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)