Wanda Auka

The Stutsman County Commission discussed and approved several financial and operational matters. Key items included approving funding for the JSDC Internship program, approving annual reimbursement for JSDC property taxes, and approving loss reimbursement for the Center for Economic Development. The Commission authorized the purchase of a new pickup truck for the Sheriff's Department and a new backhoe for the Highway Superintendent, and approved the use of NDDOT CRRSAA funds for a road project west of Medina. Furthermore, the Commission approved appraisal amounts for the West End Bridge Project right of way acquisitions and entered into an agreement to contract with a remote attorney for the State's Attorney's office. Separately, the Stutsman County Park Board approved a hay land permit, a walking trail proposal at the Reservoir, and repairs for cabin flooring and a window at the Marina building, and also approved monthly bills.

The document covers proceedings for a special meeting and a regular meeting of the Stutsman County Commission, followed by a recessed County Park Board meeting. Key discussions for the Commission included the 2021 preliminary budget, noting a proposed 4.50 mill increase due to emergency fund replenishment needs, insurance increases, and anticipated revenue decreases. Other topics included setting the emergency fund mill levy, reviewing health insurance options, approving the preliminary budget, and planning for future capital needs such as a pumper truck replacement. During the regular session, the Commission approved omitted property assessment values, a feasibility study for Buffalo City Park, payment of regional council dues, and the Give Get Grow campaign contribution. Additionally, the motor grader bid was awarded to RDO due to a better buyback guarantee, and approval was given to proceed with road repairs near the stockyards. The Commission also accepted Emergency Management Performance Grants, discussed 9-1-1 siren installation costs, reviewed the Primary Election Expense Report, and set the date for the Final Budget Hearing. They also discussed the status of a presidential disaster declaration. The Park Board meeting covered approval of mid-month bills and updates on siren funding and debris clearing at the Dam.

The meeting addressed several key property valuation and tax matters. The Jamestown City Assessor reviewed the sales ratio study, confirming no changes for the City of Jamestown. Significant discussion centered on the Cargill Malting Plant's assessment, including the review of exemptions and a requested reduction in building value to $33,320,000. After a recess for a County Commission meeting where property tax exemptions for Cargill were rescinded and a new 5-year graduated exemption was granted, the Equalization Meeting returned to order. The structure value for Cargill Malting Parcel No. 51-2223000 was reduced to $33,320,000. Omitted assessments were presented, and one residential assessment for Jay Williams was removed for 2007 pending further research. The assessments for Chase Lake Township and Roosevelt Township were accepted without changes. Finally, following statistical review, a 2% increase was approved for all agricultural assessments.

The special meeting addressed an emergency situation concerning the grade raise on County Highway 39 (Old # 10) West of Cleveland. The Commission discussed the potential for 100% reimbursement through the emergency relief fund. The emergency grade raise project, estimated at $1.4 million, was approved with Guthmiller Construction lined up as the contractor, aiming for completion by August 25, 2010. Furthermore, the Commission voted to contract with Interstate Engineering for design services related to the emergency grade raise, pending approval from the Department of Transportation's DDIR report.

The Stutsman County Park Board meeting included approval of the agenda. Key discussion points involved park portfolio updates and recommendations, including potential summer part-time employees from the Jimmies football coach and updates on the Pelican Point and Boat Club projects presented by the Auditor/COO. The Board approved payment for an invoice related to dock extensions. Fundraising efforts were discussed, with active fundraising planned after the new year, aiming for $25,000 in donations. Mid-month bills were approved before the meeting adjourned.