Brent Birkeland

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda, which included several modifications, such as adding a resolution for a mind contract under Tim Ericson's items and amending a conditional use for DHC properties under land and resources items, while striking others. The Board approved a proclamation designating Douglas County Employee Appreciation Day, recognizing the dedication and professionalism of county employees. A significant portion of the discussion involved seeking certification for two easements presented by the US Fish and Wildlife Service: a wetland easement for the Leon and Patricia West Brock Partnership and a habitat easement for Michael Streamera's property. Commissioners debated the perpetuity term of these easements versus renewable terms. Following this, the Board approved hiring temporary social worker staff for the child protection unit, allowing for hiring up to step five for qualified candidates. Finally, the Board awarded a paving contract (SP 021-640-004) for reclaiming and paving County Road 40 to Central Specialties, contingent upon state approval due to federal funding involvement, and proceeded to discuss the 2026 paving contracts.

Key discussions and actions included the approval of the agenda and the minutes from the prior meeting. The Board awarded the 2026 Sign Materials Quote to Sign Solutions USA, LLC. Bids were authorized for advertising for Project SAP 021-614-019. A resolution was adopted to accept the completed construction project (SAP 021-646-012/CSAH 46) with Joe Riley Construction, Inc., and authorize final payment. Another resolution supported a grant application to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for the purchase of a powered riding brush mower, naming Brad Bonk as the fiscal agent. The Board adopted several Excavator/Landscaper Licenses and one Disposal Hauler License. Final Plat -- Arrowood (27-0123-000) was approved, as was the payment of bills totaling $2,414,828.53. An assigned fund balance of $60,000 was approved for a storm shelter at Chippewa Park. The Board subsequently moved into a closed session to evaluate the performance of several non-elected department heads.

The session was designated as a Public Forum concerning the Firearms Zone Policy. The Board Chair provided an overview of recent amendments to Minnesota's Firearms Zone Policy and corresponding state law updates. The public participation protocol was outlined, followed by commentary from several Douglas County residents who shared perspectives on the state's repeal of Minnesota Shotgun Zone requirements and the resulting county authority to determine restrictions or permit rifle use in designated areas.

The meeting began with the approval of the agenda, which included Resolution 26-28. Key discussions involved awarding the 2026 sign materials quote, where the board ultimately voted to award the bid to Sign Solutions because the low quote from Newman Signs was incomplete, despite questions about price discrepancies. The board also approved advertising for bids for grading work on County Road 14, with bid openings anticipated for April 1st. A contract finalization for work completed by Joe Riley Construction on County Road 46 was addressed, noting the application of liquidated damages of $37,500 due to delays, and pending final paperwork. Further discussions covered a resolution supporting a grant application for trail equipment (a ride-on brush mower) for the Big Oie Bike Club, requiring the county to house and maintain the equipment for 20 years. The board also approved licenses, including landscaper/excavator licenses and a disposal hauler license for Waste Management. Finally, the board reviewed the final plat for Arowwood, confirming that existing and planned units meet required setbacks from Lake Alvin and confirming that all rental units must remain managed by Arowwood Resort.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda and subsequent action to adopt Resolution 26-17, which placed proposed highway improvements on the County Highway Improvement Program following a public hearing regarding the 5-Year Highway Improvement Plan. The Board also accepted several donations, including funds for the Sheriff's Office K-9 Unit and funds towards the purchase of a medical vehicle for veterans. Additionally, Resolution 26-22 was adopted to support a grant application to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for a tractor purchase for the Douglas Area Trails Association. The Board approved the setting of wages and positions for various seasonal/temporary roles across Land & Resource, Public Works, and Auditor/Treasurer departments. Furthermore, Resolution 26-23 established minimum salaries for elected officials effective for the 2027 term. Licenses were approved for Disposal Haulers and Excavator/Landscapers, and Preliminary Plats for Rubys Third Addition and Pine Haven First Addition were approved. Resolutions were adopted approving a grant contract for the Next Generation Employment Services Grant (Next Gen ESG) and approving applications for lawful gambling activities (raffles) by NWTF Christina Lake Longbeards and Dragonfly Mental Wellness Foundation. The meeting concluded with the payment of bills totaling $4,685,121.84 and the re-appointment of Sara Richards to the Lakeland Mental Health Center Board.