2012 County Budget Hearings
Monday was another full day of Budget Hearings by the County Board. A follow-up meeting with the County Department Heads is scheduled for September 12.
County Board Meeting
County Board Chair Jim Johnson and Commissioners Hakes, Hall, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for today's County Board Meeting. Also present were Braidy Powers, Tim Scannell and Janet Simonen.
Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to address the County Board.
Gunflint Trail Volunteer Fire Department
Chris Steele and Michael Valentini of the Gunflint Trail Volunteer Fire Department (GTVFD) presented the GTVFD proposal for expanding their (3) fire halls: Poplar Lake, Gunflint and Seagull. The proposal includes the addition of a bathroom at Gunflint, storage at Poplar Lake and creation of a Command Post at both Poplar Lake and Seagull. The total cost for this work is estimated to be $550,000 to be paid by raising $50,000 in donations, finding $100,000 in grants and a loan from the County. The County Board authorized a $220,000 loan for 20 years at 1% to the GTVFD to be paid back by increasing the levy in that Fire District. Steele and Valentini said their project has the support of all Lake Associations in the District, Law Enforcement and the Forest Service.
Grand Marais-Cook County Airport Commission
The County Board voted unanimously to update and renew the Operation Service Provider Agreement (OSP), Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) Agreement, Airport Administrator Agreement, and Airport Commission By-Laws as recommended by the Airport Commission.
Highway Department
County Engineer David Betts and Maintenance Supervisor Russell Klegstad asked the County Board for approval to proceed with a surplus equipment auction. The Board approved this request and also a request to replace a broken 3" pump.
Betts also gave a status report on the CSAH 8 road construction project. Originally, this project was ahead of schedule, in part due to the State Shutdown and the availability of the Contractor. Now, due to high demand for the asphalt plant after the State Shutdown, the project is being delayed. CSAH 8 will be prepped and ready for asphalt pavement when it becomes available. The road will have Class 5 gravel laid down.
Law Enforcement
The County Board approved a lease for the County to continue its use of the Devilfish Tower Site. Cook County currently has one antenna on this tower and a small building on the site to house a repeater. This lease is pre-dated to July 1, 2009 and terminates on June 30, 2019 for an annual lease fee of $500.
The County Board also approved a request from Sheriff Falk to support the submission of a $1M grant application to FEMA under the Assistance to Firefighter's Grant (AFG) to offset countywide costs for the migration to the ARMER system.
PUBLIC HEARING to consider changes to the Cook County Fee Schedule
No member of the Public spoke at this Public Hearing and the County Board approved the proposed changes to the Cook County Fee Schedule in Public Health and Human Services and Environmental Health. Most of the changes were slight reductions.
Community Center Ice
The County Board approved a request to purchase Synthetic Ice up to $65,000 using 1% Local Option Sales Tax funds from the Community Center project, subject to a) trial and approval of a sample of this ice by the Cook County Hockey Association, and b) modification to the original Community Center 1% Local Options Sales Tax request.
The Cook County Amatuer Hockey Association and the Community Center Board of Trustees also requested the County Board commit to constructing outdoor ice beginning no later than July 1, 2012. The County Board could not commit to this without a specific plan for the ice; concerns about identifying a location were also expressed. Clearly, however, the County Board is supportive of expediting this process as is reasonable and requested the Hockey Association and Community Center Board of Trustees come forward with a proposal for consideration.
The County Board also reviewed a proposed Lease Agreement between the existing Community Center and the Cook County Curling Club for a period of 5 1/2 months and a fee of $13,750. The Board agreed to the lease agreement in general principal, suggested a few minor changes, and asked County Attorney Tim Scannell to review the contract.
Recycling Center Vehicle
Brian Silence and Tim Nelson requested authorization to purchase a used vehicle for the Recycling Center. The County Board authorized this purchase 4-1 with Commissioner Hakes voting no. Hakes expressed the need to understand the vehicle purchasing policy and confidence that the current policy is the most cost effective.
HOME Consortium Advisory Committee
Sue Hakes asked the County Board to consider appointing Nancy Grabko to the open housing advocate seat on the HOME Consortium Advisory Committee. The Board agreed Grabko would fit the position well and asked Hakes to get a letter of application/interest from Grabko for formal consideration.
One Percent Project Updates
The Board briefly discussed the Superior National Golf Course project noting that $1.8M of the 1% Local Option Sales Tax was set aside for this project at last week's Joint County/EDA Work Session, subject to an acceptable Business Plan. Commissioner Hakes stated that while she appreciated the high bar that the SNGC and EDA had set for themselves to find funding to renovate the golf course and clubhouse, that she would not support any SNGC proposal that required an increase to the levy, bonding, or other new debt. Hakes reminded the Board that the EDA has outstanding debt of ~$1.6M for the Cedar Grove Business Park that is currently the burden of the City of Grand Marais. Overall, the Board shared the concerns expressed by Hakes.
Power It Down Day
Cook County received a friendly, informal memo from the USFS encouraging the County to join with the USFS in "Power It Down Day". The memo asks each of us to turn off our computer, monitor, printer, coffee pot, scanner, copier, plotter and personal appliances when leaving work on Friday. This one simple act helps to cut greenhouse gas emissions from building energy consumption and purchased electricity.
City/County Work Session on Community Center
The County Board and the City Council met to discuss possible options for the City to participate in the Cook County Community Center project.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Budgets, Human Services and the County Board
2012 County Budget
The County Board, along with the Auditors Office and Department Heads, is working hard on the 2012 Budget. Last Monday and a portion of Tuesday, the County Board held Budget Hearings. These hearings will be completed on August 22. A follow-up meeting with the Department Heads is scheduled for September 12. Click here for the complete 2012 Budget Calendar. These meetings are open to the Public.
Cook County Human Services Board
Human Services Board Chair, Sue Hakes, along with Board members Diane Fitzgerald, Jan Hall, Jim Johnson, Carla LaPointe, Bruce Martinson and Fritz Sobanja were all present for the monthly Human Services Board meeting. Also present were Sue Futterer, Jan Parish, Pat Strand, Anna Jorgenson and Janet Simonen.
.
Long Term Care and Waivered Services
Pat Strand, Eligibility Worker and Case Aide, gave an overview of her work. Strand works to provide Long Term Care (LTC) and Waivered Services for the elderly, blind and disabled with the goal of keeping people in their homes as opposed to going to a Care Center facility. Currently there are 34 cases of LTC and Waivered Services and 59 cases of other Medical Assistance and Food Support cases. Strand believes that with recent legislative changes, as well as County demographics and the overall economy, that this caseload will most likely continue to increase.
Strand is the Long Term Care expert in the Human Services Department; her work has been appreciated in Cook County for 23 years.
July 2011 Financial Report
Fiscal and Income Maintenance Supervisor Jan Parish presented the July 2011 Finances. Parish noted that the Cash Balance for the department is down slightly most likely due to the delay in funding caused by the State shutdown. She also noted that the budget is on plan for the current year.
Director's Report
Human Services Director Sue Futterer presented some interesting information she gathered about the impacts and cost benefits of Home Visitation Programs. Currently in Cook County, pregnant or post-partum women and their families are being served by a Universal Home Visiting Grant awarded to Arrowhead Health Alliance. Studies show that programs similar to this have multiple benefits including a significant financial payback.
Futterer updated the Board on the Region 3 Income Maintenance Redesign Project and requested the Board consider funding this project from the General Fund. The Board will take this into consideration as part of setting the overall budget.
Futterer distributed (2) very useful documents for Board information: 2011 Legislative Session: Summary of Laws and 2011 Legislative Session Summary: Local Public Health Association of Minnesota.
Board Actions
The Board approved an amendment to the Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) Agreement between Cook County and Sawtooth Mountain Clinic for bridging funds in the amount of $9,036. The Board also approved a Purchase of Service Agreement between Cook County and Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency (AEOA) for supported work activities for MFIP Clients in the amount of $2,985.
County Board of Commissioners Meeting
Chair Jim Johnson and all Commissioners (Hakes, Hall, Martinson, Sobanja) were present for today's regularly scheduled County Board Meeting.
Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to address the County Board at today's meeting.
Poplar River Alternative Urban Area-wide Review (AUAR)
The Board voted to re-adopt the Lower Poplar River Alternative Urban Area-wide Review (AUAR) along with its mitigation plan for another five year period. This action includes incorporation by reference of two more recent water shed studies.
Highway Department--5th Avenue West Ditch Reconstruction
The County Board awarded the 5th Avenue West Ditch Reconstruction project to low bidder Edwin E. Thoreson for $53,337.81. This project is slated to begin within a week and should be complete by mid-September.
Otis Creek Crossing CSAH 16
County Engineer David Betts provided the County Board with his assessment of the issues and potential solutions for the Otis Creek/CSAH 16 storm flooding. Betts asked the Board to authorize a ditching project at the intersection of CSAH 16 and CR 69 to help alleviate the problem. Because of the potential impact to private property owners, Commissioner Hall requested the neighbors be informed and solicited for input before moving forward.
Betts also recommended that work be continued to reconstruct the Otis Creek crossing at CSAH 16. However, he recommended that this crossing NOT be reconstructed prior to the reconstructing the Stonegate Road and TH 61 Crossings. A letter has been sent to MnDOT. A second letter will be drafted and sent to the Stonegate Homeowners Association.
Lastly, Betts noted that there are insufficient grant funds and Highway Department personnel available to do the ditching or construct this crossing and that State-Aid monies would need to expended which could put other projects in the Five Year Plan in potential jeopardy.
Sawtooth Mountain Bike Challenge
The County Board approved a special permit for the 2011 Sawtooth Challenge Mountain Bike Race scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, August 27.
One Percent Local Option Sales Tax Projects
The Board approved a request to enter into an agreement with DSGW for interior design of the circulation and reference desks, as well as the work flow for the Library Expansion. It is anticipated that this space will be built by local cabinet makers.
A Master Schedule of the One Percent Sales Projects has been created and reviewed by the County Board. This Master Schedule identifies financial placeholders or projected costs and % of completion for (5) projects: Cook County Community Center $11M, Library Addition $1.49M, Birch Grove Community Center $700K, Superior National Golf Course $1.8M, Broadband $4M. The County Board and ORB Management also discussed criteria for prioritizing the projects. Certainly any project needs to comply with the Legislation that was passed. The Board also discussed the importance of giving priority to the projects that were identified when the public voted on the tax.
The County Board discussed the pros and cons of (3) possible locations for the Community Center. They also explored the possibility of locating the facility adjacent to ISD166. There has not been a recent dialogue between the County and the School Board regarding this option, so the County Board will draft a letter to the School Board inviting them to explore this possibility further at the next Joint City/County/School/Tribe meeting already scheduled for August 25 at 4 pm in the City Council Chambers.
A work session to discuss the County Biomass Feasibility has been scheduled for September 20, 2011 at 1 pm.
The County Board, along with the Auditors Office and Department Heads, is working hard on the 2012 Budget. Last Monday and a portion of Tuesday, the County Board held Budget Hearings. These hearings will be completed on August 22. A follow-up meeting with the Department Heads is scheduled for September 12. Click here for the complete 2012 Budget Calendar. These meetings are open to the Public.
Cook County Human Services Board
Human Services Board Chair, Sue Hakes, along with Board members Diane Fitzgerald, Jan Hall, Jim Johnson, Carla LaPointe, Bruce Martinson and Fritz Sobanja were all present for the monthly Human Services Board meeting. Also present were Sue Futterer, Jan Parish, Pat Strand, Anna Jorgenson and Janet Simonen.
.
Long Term Care and Waivered Services
Pat Strand, Eligibility Worker and Case Aide, gave an overview of her work. Strand works to provide Long Term Care (LTC) and Waivered Services for the elderly, blind and disabled with the goal of keeping people in their homes as opposed to going to a Care Center facility. Currently there are 34 cases of LTC and Waivered Services and 59 cases of other Medical Assistance and Food Support cases. Strand believes that with recent legislative changes, as well as County demographics and the overall economy, that this caseload will most likely continue to increase.
Strand is the Long Term Care expert in the Human Services Department; her work has been appreciated in Cook County for 23 years.
July 2011 Financial Report
Fiscal and Income Maintenance Supervisor Jan Parish presented the July 2011 Finances. Parish noted that the Cash Balance for the department is down slightly most likely due to the delay in funding caused by the State shutdown. She also noted that the budget is on plan for the current year.
Director's Report
Human Services Director Sue Futterer presented some interesting information she gathered about the impacts and cost benefits of Home Visitation Programs. Currently in Cook County, pregnant or post-partum women and their families are being served by a Universal Home Visiting Grant awarded to Arrowhead Health Alliance. Studies show that programs similar to this have multiple benefits including a significant financial payback.
Futterer updated the Board on the Region 3 Income Maintenance Redesign Project and requested the Board consider funding this project from the General Fund. The Board will take this into consideration as part of setting the overall budget.
Futterer distributed (2) very useful documents for Board information: 2011 Legislative Session: Summary of Laws and 2011 Legislative Session Summary: Local Public Health Association of Minnesota.
Board Actions
The Board approved an amendment to the Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) Agreement between Cook County and Sawtooth Mountain Clinic for bridging funds in the amount of $9,036. The Board also approved a Purchase of Service Agreement between Cook County and Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency (AEOA) for supported work activities for MFIP Clients in the amount of $2,985.
County Board of Commissioners Meeting
Chair Jim Johnson and all Commissioners (Hakes, Hall, Martinson, Sobanja) were present for today's regularly scheduled County Board Meeting.
Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to address the County Board at today's meeting.
Poplar River Alternative Urban Area-wide Review (AUAR)
The Board voted to re-adopt the Lower Poplar River Alternative Urban Area-wide Review (AUAR) along with its mitigation plan for another five year period. This action includes incorporation by reference of two more recent water shed studies.
Highway Department--5th Avenue West Ditch Reconstruction
The County Board awarded the 5th Avenue West Ditch Reconstruction project to low bidder Edwin E. Thoreson for $53,337.81. This project is slated to begin within a week and should be complete by mid-September.
Otis Creek Crossing CSAH 16
County Engineer David Betts provided the County Board with his assessment of the issues and potential solutions for the Otis Creek/CSAH 16 storm flooding. Betts asked the Board to authorize a ditching project at the intersection of CSAH 16 and CR 69 to help alleviate the problem. Because of the potential impact to private property owners, Commissioner Hall requested the neighbors be informed and solicited for input before moving forward.
Betts also recommended that work be continued to reconstruct the Otis Creek crossing at CSAH 16. However, he recommended that this crossing NOT be reconstructed prior to the reconstructing the Stonegate Road and TH 61 Crossings. A letter has been sent to MnDOT. A second letter will be drafted and sent to the Stonegate Homeowners Association.
Lastly, Betts noted that there are insufficient grant funds and Highway Department personnel available to do the ditching or construct this crossing and that State-Aid monies would need to expended which could put other projects in the Five Year Plan in potential jeopardy.
Sawtooth Mountain Bike Challenge
The County Board approved a special permit for the 2011 Sawtooth Challenge Mountain Bike Race scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, August 27.
One Percent Local Option Sales Tax Projects
The Board approved a request to enter into an agreement with DSGW for interior design of the circulation and reference desks, as well as the work flow for the Library Expansion. It is anticipated that this space will be built by local cabinet makers.
A Master Schedule of the One Percent Sales Projects has been created and reviewed by the County Board. This Master Schedule identifies financial placeholders or projected costs and % of completion for (5) projects: Cook County Community Center $11M, Library Addition $1.49M, Birch Grove Community Center $700K, Superior National Golf Course $1.8M, Broadband $4M. The County Board and ORB Management also discussed criteria for prioritizing the projects. Certainly any project needs to comply with the Legislation that was passed. The Board also discussed the importance of giving priority to the projects that were identified when the public voted on the tax.
The County Board discussed the pros and cons of (3) possible locations for the Community Center. They also explored the possibility of locating the facility adjacent to ISD166. There has not been a recent dialogue between the County and the School Board regarding this option, so the County Board will draft a letter to the School Board inviting them to explore this possibility further at the next Joint City/County/School/Tribe meeting already scheduled for August 25 at 4 pm in the City Council Chambers.
A work session to discuss the County Biomass Feasibility has been scheduled for September 20, 2011 at 1 pm.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
County Board Meeting
County Board Chair Jim Johnson and Commissioners Hakes, Hall, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for today's regularly scheduled Board Meeting. Also present were Braidy Powers, Tim Scannell and Janet Simonen.
Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to speak during the Public Comment period.
Maintenance Department
The Board authorized Maintenance Supervisor Brian Silence to enter into an agreement for $4800 with the Jamar Company to conduct an extensive investigation of the tie-in to the original building and gutter eave of that building. This investigation and subsequent repair will be done to prevent water intrusion.
The Board also authorized Silence to purchase 9 personal task lights at a cost of $335 each to be installed on the Commissioner's table. These lights are being installed so that overhead compact florescent lights may be turned off in the presence of people with sensitivity to such lighting. The new lights consume minimal energy.
Information Systems (IS)
Congratulations to Information Systems Director Danna MacKenzie for being selected as a 2011-2012 Policy Fellow at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs. MacKenzie was selected from a large number of robust applicants to develop core leadership competencies necessary to inspire, organize and work effectively to advance the public good. The County Board was pleased to authorize MacKenzie to use $1000 from the IS Department training budget for years 2011 and 2012 to pay ~1/3 of the program fees.
As noted in the Policy Fellows Program Overview, a vibrant community benefits everyone and MacKenzie's participation in this program will certainly benefit Cook County. "Citizens who take part in public affairs must turn from the private interests to take a look at something other than themselves." Alexis de Tocqueville.
Ehlers and Associates
The County Board passed a resolution calling for public hearings on a capital improvement plan and the intent to use capital improvement bonds. More simply stated, the County would like to refinance their debt for the Cook County Courthouse and Law Enforcement Center. By refinancing, the County is likely to save an estimated $122,000 in interest costs.
On another note, Bruce Kimmel of Ehlers and Associates presented an overall bond timing and master cashflow scenario for all one percent sales tax projects. In this scenario, the County will likely issue bonds for $8,500,000 this Fall. Interest rates are very attractive and anticipated to remain low.
PUBLIC HEARING to survey Sections 7-8-9-17-19, T58N, R5W in Schroeder Township
A pubic hearing was held on this matter. No objections from the public were raised and the process will move forward. A citizen petition tallied 67% in favor of this corner restoration survey.
Cook County Historical Society (CCHS)
Carrie McHugh, Cook County Historical Society Museum Director, gave a wonderful mid-year overview of the work the Cook County Historical Society has completed, is working on, or has plans for. Of particular note is the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Exhibit which included a two-room exhibit, digitization of photos and oral histories, as well as an on-line component. And, the CCHS is hopeful they will be successful in their request for a grant from the LLoyd K. Johnson foundation to fund conservation of the Grand Marais Lighthouse Lens to be received on long-term loan from the Coast Guard, perhaps as early as this Fall.
The CCHS requested the County Board continue their annual grant for their important work.
Vacating County Road 79
The Board authorized a resolution to begin the process to vacate County Road 79, formerly a section of Old Highway 61. Recent Mn/DOT Highway 61 road construction in Lutsen created a new access to property owners using CR 79 so it is no longer needed.
Permits and Licenses
The County Board approved a raffle on August 13 at the Midtrail Firehall as requested by the Mid Trail Home Owners Association. The Board also approved a temporary on-sale liquor license for a single day (9/22/11) as requested by the Schroeder Area Historical Society for the an event at the Cross River Heritage Center.
Superior National Golf Course
The County Board reviewed a proposal from Sirius Golf Advisors to conduct a business and marketing plan for Superior National Golf Course. Sirius also proposed a consulting contract to provide assistance in executing the business plan. The County Board agreed that it needs a Work Session with the EDA to determine a) direction and mission of SNGC, b) roles & responsibilities of the County, the EDA and SNGC Staff, and c) funding. The County Board also asked EDA Liaison Bruce Martinson to recommend that the EDA/SNGC Staff immediately implement the no-cost or low-cost suggestions already given by Sirius Golf Advisors to improve operations at SNGC this year. It is anticipated that the County/EDA Work Session will be held Thursday, August 18th at 7 pm in the Commissioner's Room.
Highway 61 Otis Creek Crossing
Highway Engineer Dave Betts drafted a letter to Mn/DOT requesting that Mn/DOT replace the TH61 box culvert over Otis Creek. This request is being made to handle any increase in flow that would result from increasing the size of the CSAH 16 culvert as desired. The existing drainage structure is undersized; excess runoff is impacting local residents and needs to be corrected. The Board authorized Betts' letter.
Public Comment
No member of the Public opted to speak during the Public Comment period.
Maintenance Department
The Board authorized Maintenance Supervisor Brian Silence to enter into an agreement for $4800 with the Jamar Company to conduct an extensive investigation of the tie-in to the original building and gutter eave of that building. This investigation and subsequent repair will be done to prevent water intrusion.
The Board also authorized Silence to purchase 9 personal task lights at a cost of $335 each to be installed on the Commissioner's table. These lights are being installed so that overhead compact florescent lights may be turned off in the presence of people with sensitivity to such lighting. The new lights consume minimal energy.
Information Systems (IS)
Congratulations to Information Systems Director Danna MacKenzie for being selected as a 2011-2012 Policy Fellow at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs. MacKenzie was selected from a large number of robust applicants to develop core leadership competencies necessary to inspire, organize and work effectively to advance the public good. The County Board was pleased to authorize MacKenzie to use $1000 from the IS Department training budget for years 2011 and 2012 to pay ~1/3 of the program fees.
As noted in the Policy Fellows Program Overview, a vibrant community benefits everyone and MacKenzie's participation in this program will certainly benefit Cook County. "Citizens who take part in public affairs must turn from the private interests to take a look at something other than themselves." Alexis de Tocqueville.
Ehlers and Associates
The County Board passed a resolution calling for public hearings on a capital improvement plan and the intent to use capital improvement bonds. More simply stated, the County would like to refinance their debt for the Cook County Courthouse and Law Enforcement Center. By refinancing, the County is likely to save an estimated $122,000 in interest costs.
On another note, Bruce Kimmel of Ehlers and Associates presented an overall bond timing and master cashflow scenario for all one percent sales tax projects. In this scenario, the County will likely issue bonds for $8,500,000 this Fall. Interest rates are very attractive and anticipated to remain low.
PUBLIC HEARING to survey Sections 7-8-9-17-19, T58N, R5W in Schroeder Township
A pubic hearing was held on this matter. No objections from the public were raised and the process will move forward. A citizen petition tallied 67% in favor of this corner restoration survey.
Cook County Historical Society (CCHS)
Carrie McHugh, Cook County Historical Society Museum Director, gave a wonderful mid-year overview of the work the Cook County Historical Society has completed, is working on, or has plans for. Of particular note is the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Exhibit which included a two-room exhibit, digitization of photos and oral histories, as well as an on-line component. And, the CCHS is hopeful they will be successful in their request for a grant from the LLoyd K. Johnson foundation to fund conservation of the Grand Marais Lighthouse Lens to be received on long-term loan from the Coast Guard, perhaps as early as this Fall.
The CCHS requested the County Board continue their annual grant for their important work.
Vacating County Road 79
The Board authorized a resolution to begin the process to vacate County Road 79, formerly a section of Old Highway 61. Recent Mn/DOT Highway 61 road construction in Lutsen created a new access to property owners using CR 79 so it is no longer needed.
Permits and Licenses
The County Board approved a raffle on August 13 at the Midtrail Firehall as requested by the Mid Trail Home Owners Association. The Board also approved a temporary on-sale liquor license for a single day (9/22/11) as requested by the Schroeder Area Historical Society for the an event at the Cross River Heritage Center.
Superior National Golf Course
The County Board reviewed a proposal from Sirius Golf Advisors to conduct a business and marketing plan for Superior National Golf Course. Sirius also proposed a consulting contract to provide assistance in executing the business plan. The County Board agreed that it needs a Work Session with the EDA to determine a) direction and mission of SNGC, b) roles & responsibilities of the County, the EDA and SNGC Staff, and c) funding. The County Board also asked EDA Liaison Bruce Martinson to recommend that the EDA/SNGC Staff immediately implement the no-cost or low-cost suggestions already given by Sirius Golf Advisors to improve operations at SNGC this year. It is anticipated that the County/EDA Work Session will be held Thursday, August 18th at 7 pm in the Commissioner's Room.
Highway 61 Otis Creek Crossing
Highway Engineer Dave Betts drafted a letter to Mn/DOT requesting that Mn/DOT replace the TH61 box culvert over Otis Creek. This request is being made to handle any increase in flow that would result from increasing the size of the CSAH 16 culvert as desired. The existing drainage structure is undersized; excess runoff is impacting local residents and needs to be corrected. The Board authorized Betts' letter.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Broadband Resolution Passed at County Board Meeting
Today was a very full and productive day at the Courthouse. The County Board met from 8:30 AM until approximately 4:30 PM today (less a lunch break). Following is a summary of the day.
County Chair Jim Johnson and Commissioners Hakes, Hall, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for today's regularly scheduled Board Meeting which included an evaluation presentation on Superior National Golf Course (SNGC) from Sirius Golf Advisors.
Open Forum
Richard Olson and Shawn Perich requested the County work with Hovland property owners to resolve flooding issues caused by the undersized culvert where Otis Creek crosses the Arrowhead Trail. Otis Creek has overtopped the Arrowhead culvert five times over the past six years causing damage to private property. County Engineer Dave Betts is aware of the problem and will prepare a plan to resolve this issue for presentation at the 8/16/11 County Board meeting.
Highway Department
County Engineer David Betts asked the Board to assign (2) Commissioners to the Facility Study Committee to assess the work on the Highway Department Master Site Plan being led by Oertel Architects. Commissioners Martinson and Sobanja will join the Committee of Maintenance Supervisor Russell Klegstad, Maintenance Department Head Brian Silence, Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers and Highway Department Accountant Anne Zellner.
Moose Habitat Collaborative Support Letter
Land Commissioner Mary Black requested the Board write a letter of support for the MN Moose Habitat Collaborative application for Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council funds to restore moose habitat in NE Minnesota. The Board voted unanimously to join the MN Deer Hunters Association, Nature Conservancy, USFS, MN DNR, 1854 Authority, Grand Portage and Fon du Lac Bands of Lake Superior Chippewa, Lake and St. Louis Counties by providing a letter of support.
Office of Planning and Zoning (OPZ)
As recommended by the Planning Commission, the Board unanimously approved a zone change from Lakeshore Residential to Resort Commercial/Residential on property adjacent to Gunflint Lake and owned by John Schloot, dba Cross River Properties.
The Board denied a request for a Conditional User Permit to allow placement of a single family residence on a property owned by Joseph Sanders within the General Commercial zone district. This request was denied for non-compliance with other zoning requirements 4-1 with Commissioner Sobanja dissenting.
The Board unanimously approved a request from Arrowhead Electric Cooperative for an Interim Use Permit to allow the temporary storage of fiber optic cable on property within the Lutsen Town Center Single Family Residential District.
Arrowhead Electric Cooperative Request for 1% Funds
Arrowhead Electric Cooperative (AEC) came before the County Board to request $4 million of 1% Local Option Sales Tax funding for their Broadband Project. AEC has been awarded a combination grant and loan of $16 million through the federal Rural Utility Service for purposes of installing broadband technology throughout Cook County by making high speed internet available to all customers served by Arrowhead Electric and the Grand Marais Public Utilities Commission. AEC is incurring at least $5.4 million in debt to undertake and complete the Broadband Project. AEC needs an additional $4 million to ensure that the system is adequately robust, redundant, and long lasting. The Board approved this request unanimously.
Capital Purchase Request
The Board authorized IS Director Danna MacKenzie to purchase (3) Dell computers as part of the IS Department's regularly planned rotation and maintenance plan as budgeted.
Community Center Project Update
Tom Wacholz of ORB Management informed the Board that sample collections (drilling) at the various Community Center site options will begin tomorrow, July 27. The Board voted unanimously to add samples to be collected from the potential school site option.
ISD166 Superintendent Beth Schwarz updated the County Board on the School Board's two-part motion indicating the School District's willingness to consider a proposal that would attach the Community Center to the School District. Advocates for attaching the Community Center to the School envision this to be at no-cost to ISD166 and should reduce annual operations and maintenance costs for the District.
The County Board discussed possible options to allow the City of Grand Marais to participate in the Cook County Community Center project. Ultimately the Board passed a motion to suspend further Community Center design activities and expenses until the matter of the City's participation is resolved. The contracts with ORB Management for Community Center Contract Management and Meyer Group for Community Center design will be suspended with the exception of the current site evaluation process. The County will invite the City Council to a joint County/City work session on 8/23/11 to discuss the matter further.
Auditor-Treasurer
Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers asked the Board to approve a Public Hearing for Miscellaneous Fees. The Hearing will be scheduled for 10 AM on August 23. Powers also asked the Board to approve an extension to the Tait Lake Firewise Grant, which was approved.
Evaluation of Superior National Golf Course (SNGC) in Lutsen
Sirius Golf Advisors President John Waite and Golf Course Architect Jeff Brauer presented their draft Evaluation of SNGC to the County Board and several members of the Public, including members of the EDA. The final report will be available in approximately 2 weeks; no significant changes are anticipated. An Executive Summary of the ~175 page document was also provided.
Overall response to the study and the presentation was very positive and well-received. The County Board, as well as others in attendance asked clarifying questions of Waite and Brauer. The report noted the original SNGC mission to spur economic development in the area and to bring more tourists into the area. So, at this point, the most important question to be asked is whether or not the original mission statement for Superior National Golf Course is still valid. Answering this question is critical to how the County Board and the EDA should move forward. Sirius Golf Advisors offered (3) different scenarios for consideration, each requiring a different amount of funding. The EDA and SNGC staff will explore possible funding sources in addition to their anticipated request for 1% Local Option Sales Tax funds.
County Chair Jim Johnson and Commissioners Hakes, Hall, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for today's regularly scheduled Board Meeting which included an evaluation presentation on Superior National Golf Course (SNGC) from Sirius Golf Advisors.
Open Forum
Richard Olson and Shawn Perich requested the County work with Hovland property owners to resolve flooding issues caused by the undersized culvert where Otis Creek crosses the Arrowhead Trail. Otis Creek has overtopped the Arrowhead culvert five times over the past six years causing damage to private property. County Engineer Dave Betts is aware of the problem and will prepare a plan to resolve this issue for presentation at the 8/16/11 County Board meeting.
Highway Department
County Engineer David Betts asked the Board to assign (2) Commissioners to the Facility Study Committee to assess the work on the Highway Department Master Site Plan being led by Oertel Architects. Commissioners Martinson and Sobanja will join the Committee of Maintenance Supervisor Russell Klegstad, Maintenance Department Head Brian Silence, Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers and Highway Department Accountant Anne Zellner.
Moose Habitat Collaborative Support Letter
Land Commissioner Mary Black requested the Board write a letter of support for the MN Moose Habitat Collaborative application for Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council funds to restore moose habitat in NE Minnesota. The Board voted unanimously to join the MN Deer Hunters Association, Nature Conservancy, USFS, MN DNR, 1854 Authority, Grand Portage and Fon du Lac Bands of Lake Superior Chippewa, Lake and St. Louis Counties by providing a letter of support.
Office of Planning and Zoning (OPZ)
As recommended by the Planning Commission, the Board unanimously approved a zone change from Lakeshore Residential to Resort Commercial/Residential on property adjacent to Gunflint Lake and owned by John Schloot, dba Cross River Properties.
The Board denied a request for a Conditional User Permit to allow placement of a single family residence on a property owned by Joseph Sanders within the General Commercial zone district. This request was denied for non-compliance with other zoning requirements 4-1 with Commissioner Sobanja dissenting.
The Board unanimously approved a request from Arrowhead Electric Cooperative for an Interim Use Permit to allow the temporary storage of fiber optic cable on property within the Lutsen Town Center Single Family Residential District.
Arrowhead Electric Cooperative Request for 1% Funds
Arrowhead Electric Cooperative (AEC) came before the County Board to request $4 million of 1% Local Option Sales Tax funding for their Broadband Project. AEC has been awarded a combination grant and loan of $16 million through the federal Rural Utility Service for purposes of installing broadband technology throughout Cook County by making high speed internet available to all customers served by Arrowhead Electric and the Grand Marais Public Utilities Commission. AEC is incurring at least $5.4 million in debt to undertake and complete the Broadband Project. AEC needs an additional $4 million to ensure that the system is adequately robust, redundant, and long lasting. The Board approved this request unanimously.
Capital Purchase Request
The Board authorized IS Director Danna MacKenzie to purchase (3) Dell computers as part of the IS Department's regularly planned rotation and maintenance plan as budgeted.
Community Center Project Update
Tom Wacholz of ORB Management informed the Board that sample collections (drilling) at the various Community Center site options will begin tomorrow, July 27. The Board voted unanimously to add samples to be collected from the potential school site option.
ISD166 Superintendent Beth Schwarz updated the County Board on the School Board's two-part motion indicating the School District's willingness to consider a proposal that would attach the Community Center to the School District. Advocates for attaching the Community Center to the School envision this to be at no-cost to ISD166 and should reduce annual operations and maintenance costs for the District.
The County Board discussed possible options to allow the City of Grand Marais to participate in the Cook County Community Center project. Ultimately the Board passed a motion to suspend further Community Center design activities and expenses until the matter of the City's participation is resolved. The contracts with ORB Management for Community Center Contract Management and Meyer Group for Community Center design will be suspended with the exception of the current site evaluation process. The County will invite the City Council to a joint County/City work session on 8/23/11 to discuss the matter further.
Auditor-Treasurer
Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers asked the Board to approve a Public Hearing for Miscellaneous Fees. The Hearing will be scheduled for 10 AM on August 23. Powers also asked the Board to approve an extension to the Tait Lake Firewise Grant, which was approved.
Evaluation of Superior National Golf Course (SNGC) in Lutsen
Sirius Golf Advisors President John Waite and Golf Course Architect Jeff Brauer presented their draft Evaluation of SNGC to the County Board and several members of the Public, including members of the EDA. The final report will be available in approximately 2 weeks; no significant changes are anticipated. An Executive Summary of the ~175 page document was also provided.
Overall response to the study and the presentation was very positive and well-received. The County Board, as well as others in attendance asked clarifying questions of Waite and Brauer. The report noted the original SNGC mission to spur economic development in the area and to bring more tourists into the area. So, at this point, the most important question to be asked is whether or not the original mission statement for Superior National Golf Course is still valid. Answering this question is critical to how the County Board and the EDA should move forward. Sirius Golf Advisors offered (3) different scenarios for consideration, each requiring a different amount of funding. The EDA and SNGC staff will explore possible funding sources in addition to their anticipated request for 1% Local Option Sales Tax funds.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Minnesota Public Radio's Broadband Coverage
Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) has been tracking seven places around Minnesota --and calling them Ground Level's Broadband 7 -- as these (7) communities continue efforts to provide broadband services to their populations. Cook County is one of those (7).
Read more at:
http://minnesota.publicradio.org/collections/special/columns/ground-level/archive/2011/07/broadband-7-revisited.shtml
For more specific information about the Arrowhead Electric Cooperative broadband project go to:
http://www.aecimn.com/
Read more at:
http://minnesota.publicradio.org/collections/special/columns/ground-level/archive/2011/07/broadband-7-revisited.shtml
For more specific information about the Arrowhead Electric Cooperative broadband project go to:
http://www.aecimn.com/
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Possible end to State Government shutdown
In a sincere effort to "stop the pain" caused by the MN State Government shutdown, Governor Dayton has made a move to drop his pursuit of tax hikes and accept a previously made Republican Party offer with some concessions.
Read more at: http://www.startribune.com/local/125567728.html
Read more at: http://www.startribune.com/local/125567728.html
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
County Board Meeting
County Board Chair Jim Johnson and Commissioners Hakes, Hall, Martinson and Sobanja were all present for today's regular County Board Meeting. Also present were Janet Simonen, Braidy Powers and Tim Scannell.
Public Comment
Hal Greenwood, Matt Hueltner, Gary Gamble, Evelyn Larson and Irene Thompson came before the County Board to present survey information from their "Stop the Madness" Campaign in opposition to the proposed Cook County Community Center. Members of the County Board shared the group's concern about Operation and Maintenance Costs and re-stated their determination to build a facility that is financially sustainable without any increase to taxes. Gamble said that their group wasn't always aware of the on-going decision making process; Hakes extended an invitation to attend any of the Steering Committee Meetings which are always open to the public.
PUBLIC HEARING
A Public Hearing was held to consider adopting proposed amendments to the Cook County Fiber Optic Network Ordinance. The purpose of the Broadband Commission is "to advise and educate on the development, adoption , and use of broadband and directly related technologies". The County Board approved this amendment which becomes effective upon publication.
Maintenance Department
Maintenance Director Brian Silence presented a quote to purchase a new County car for $21,197. The Board passed a motion 4-1 approving this purchase with Commissioner Hakes opposed. Hakes said she couldn't support the purchase without a clear understanding of the current fleet, associated costs, and alternatives to purchasing (lease, employee-owned cars, scheduling).
Highway Department
At County Engineer David Betts' recommendation, the Board approved the easement agreement with the Forest Service for the Junco Creek project and approved entering into an agreement with Midwest Trenchless Technologies to clean and televise the CSAH 12 storm sewer . Betts and Maintenance Supervisor Russell Klegstad gave an overview of the on-going construction and maintenance projects noting that calcium chloride applications began 7/11/11 and should be complete this week.
Office of Planning and Zoning
Planning and Zoning Director Tim Nelson reminded the Board that the Poplar River Alternative Urban Area-wide Review (AUAR) which was initially adopted in June 2006 is up for renewal if it is to continue as an active environmental review document. Nelson recommended the Board re-adopt the original AUAR document and mitigation plan for another five years as well as adopt by reference two additional studies that had been conducted in the Poplar River area and provide more recent information for review in conjunction with the mitigation plan. After discussion, the Board approved the motion unanimously.
Nelson also reported the North Shore Management Board (NSMB) is considering whether or not to initiate another amendment process to the existing North Shore Management Plan. The Board recommends no change to the Plan at this time.
Cook County Local Energy Project (CCLEP)
CCLEP is in need of a Staff person to increase their ability to carry out their mission. George Wilkes, CCLEP Chair, requested the County Board provide $1000 in matching funds toward a 1/2 time Coordinator position to manage CCLEP activities. CCLEP intends to apply to the Lloyd K. Johnson Foundation for the balance of $19,000. Wilkes' request was approved by the Board.
AT&T Tower Leases
Mark Hemstereet of Insight (representing AT&T), Sheriff Mark Falk, and Duane Ege provided an update of the (2) new towers being considered for construction at Gunflint Magnetic and Gunflint Mid-Trail. The logistics of building these towers is complex, but the general gist of it is that AT&T would pay for the construction of these towers. In return for building the towers, any rents to be paid by AT&T would be abated for 25 years. The estimated cost to build each tower is $200,000. The County will have full ownership of these towers and retain the right to all rental income from both the current towers and the new towers.
Schroeder Township Survey
Citizen petition votes have been tallied at 67% in favor of the corner restoration survey in Sections 7-8-9-17-19 T58N R5W. A letter is forthcoming to all landowners in those sections and a Public Hearing has been scheduled for August 9 at 10 AM at the Cook County Courthouse. For questions about this process or the survey, contact Cook County Surveyor Wayne Hensche at 387-1172 or County Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers at 387-3646.
Budget Calendar and State Shutdown
Department Heads are working on their 2012 Budgets for submission to Braidy Powers by July 29.
The negative impact of the State Shutdown grows as the Shutdown continues. Department Heads and the County Board are working to continue the provision of County Services in the least disruptive manner within the budget constraints and unknowns.
One Percent Project
Commissioner Sobanja reported that construction of the Library Addition project is going well.
The County Board discussed a letter received from the Cook County Community Center Board of Trustees regarding the benefits of attaching the proposed Community Center to ISD166. Beth Schwarz was present for this discussion and took the action to meet with the School Board to determine their interest and willingness to explore this option further. The next Steering Committee Meeting is slated for July 27.
NE MN Area Transportation Partnership (NMATP)
Lutsen Township Supervisor, Diane Parker, applied for the position of Cook County Rep to the NMATP. The Board approved this unanimously.
Public Comment
Hal Greenwood, Matt Hueltner, Gary Gamble, Evelyn Larson and Irene Thompson came before the County Board to present survey information from their "Stop the Madness" Campaign in opposition to the proposed Cook County Community Center. Members of the County Board shared the group's concern about Operation and Maintenance Costs and re-stated their determination to build a facility that is financially sustainable without any increase to taxes. Gamble said that their group wasn't always aware of the on-going decision making process; Hakes extended an invitation to attend any of the Steering Committee Meetings which are always open to the public.
PUBLIC HEARING
A Public Hearing was held to consider adopting proposed amendments to the Cook County Fiber Optic Network Ordinance. The purpose of the Broadband Commission is "to advise and educate on the development, adoption , and use of broadband and directly related technologies". The County Board approved this amendment which becomes effective upon publication.
Maintenance Department
Maintenance Director Brian Silence presented a quote to purchase a new County car for $21,197. The Board passed a motion 4-1 approving this purchase with Commissioner Hakes opposed. Hakes said she couldn't support the purchase without a clear understanding of the current fleet, associated costs, and alternatives to purchasing (lease, employee-owned cars, scheduling).
Highway Department
At County Engineer David Betts' recommendation, the Board approved the easement agreement with the Forest Service for the Junco Creek project and approved entering into an agreement with Midwest Trenchless Technologies to clean and televise the CSAH 12 storm sewer . Betts and Maintenance Supervisor Russell Klegstad gave an overview of the on-going construction and maintenance projects noting that calcium chloride applications began 7/11/11 and should be complete this week.
Office of Planning and Zoning
Planning and Zoning Director Tim Nelson reminded the Board that the Poplar River Alternative Urban Area-wide Review (AUAR) which was initially adopted in June 2006 is up for renewal if it is to continue as an active environmental review document. Nelson recommended the Board re-adopt the original AUAR document and mitigation plan for another five years as well as adopt by reference two additional studies that had been conducted in the Poplar River area and provide more recent information for review in conjunction with the mitigation plan. After discussion, the Board approved the motion unanimously.
Nelson also reported the North Shore Management Board (NSMB) is considering whether or not to initiate another amendment process to the existing North Shore Management Plan. The Board recommends no change to the Plan at this time.
Cook County Local Energy Project (CCLEP)
CCLEP is in need of a Staff person to increase their ability to carry out their mission. George Wilkes, CCLEP Chair, requested the County Board provide $1000 in matching funds toward a 1/2 time Coordinator position to manage CCLEP activities. CCLEP intends to apply to the Lloyd K. Johnson Foundation for the balance of $19,000. Wilkes' request was approved by the Board.
AT&T Tower Leases
Mark Hemstereet of Insight (representing AT&T), Sheriff Mark Falk, and Duane Ege provided an update of the (2) new towers being considered for construction at Gunflint Magnetic and Gunflint Mid-Trail. The logistics of building these towers is complex, but the general gist of it is that AT&T would pay for the construction of these towers. In return for building the towers, any rents to be paid by AT&T would be abated for 25 years. The estimated cost to build each tower is $200,000. The County will have full ownership of these towers and retain the right to all rental income from both the current towers and the new towers.
Schroeder Township Survey
Citizen petition votes have been tallied at 67% in favor of the corner restoration survey in Sections 7-8-9-17-19 T58N R5W. A letter is forthcoming to all landowners in those sections and a Public Hearing has been scheduled for August 9 at 10 AM at the Cook County Courthouse. For questions about this process or the survey, contact Cook County Surveyor Wayne Hensche at 387-1172 or County Auditor-Treasurer Braidy Powers at 387-3646.
Budget Calendar and State Shutdown
Department Heads are working on their 2012 Budgets for submission to Braidy Powers by July 29.
The negative impact of the State Shutdown grows as the Shutdown continues. Department Heads and the County Board are working to continue the provision of County Services in the least disruptive manner within the budget constraints and unknowns.
One Percent Project
Commissioner Sobanja reported that construction of the Library Addition project is going well.
The County Board discussed a letter received from the Cook County Community Center Board of Trustees regarding the benefits of attaching the proposed Community Center to ISD166. Beth Schwarz was present for this discussion and took the action to meet with the School Board to determine their interest and willingness to explore this option further. The next Steering Committee Meeting is slated for July 27.
NE MN Area Transportation Partnership (NMATP)
Lutsen Township Supervisor, Diane Parker, applied for the position of Cook County Rep to the NMATP. The Board approved this unanimously.
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