Mark Longtin

The board meeting primarily focused on the public hearing regarding the proposal to establish the Lake Andrew Lake Improvement District. Various property owners provided public comment, discussing concerns about invasive weed control, potential future tax assessments, the role of the DNR, and the request for exemptions for those already managing their own lakefront property treatments. The board also addressed routine agenda items, including the approval of auditor warrants and claims, and a joint powers agreement amendment for the supplemental nutrition assistance program.

The Board of Commissioners conducted a meeting which included a public hearing regarding a proposed no-wake ordinance for several recreational lakes within the county. Discussions focused on the data-driven methodology for determining water levels that trigger the ordinance, the use of visual markers for public and law enforcement awareness, and the impact of boat wakes on shoreline erosion and wildlife, specifically nesting loons. Members of the public provided comments expressing support for the ordinance, concerns regarding notification methods, and requests for additional lake inclusions.

The Board of Commissioners discussed and approved a resolution supporting a grant application for the Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center, which includes plans for trail, boardwalk, and dock improvements, as well as the addition of ADA-accessible yurt facilities. Additionally, the County Assessor provided an informational update regarding assessment procedures, market value data for various property categories, new construction statistics, and upcoming valuation changes.

The board meeting included a public hearing regarding a petition for the partial abandonment of County Ditch 62, which was approved. The board also passed a resolution to appoint members to the Noxious Weed Appeals Committee and set a new per diem rate for the committee members. Additionally, a construction contract for the landfill demolition cell cap was awarded to Swenson and Sons Excavating.

The board held an emergency meeting to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Key discussions focused on a declaration of a state of emergency, which included plans for the closure of county office buildings or limited access to public buildings, while maintaining essential services through appointments and drop boxes. Additional topics included the operational handling of DMV services, legislative requests for waivers regarding face-to-face client requirements, and the role of the medical and emergency operations team in managing the crisis.