Pledge of Allegiance. Are we ready? I aliance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and
justice for all. >> All right. Good morning everyone. All right, we will move on to agenda confirmation. Do we have any changes to the agenda? >> Um Madam Chair, I don't have any um modifications to the agenda, but I just
wanted to make a note if you see on your agenda um human resources tiara will be going earlier. She does have some things she's got to get to. Okay. >> And it is scheduled at 9. So, I'm hoping that we can keep that time in line
because I believe Tessa Melvin from DDA is planning on being online, too, in case there were any questions from the board. >> Okay. >> All right. With that being said, I will take a motion to approve the agenda. >> I'll make a motion to approve the agenda.
>> I'll second it. >> All right. Any further discussion? All those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> Opposed? Motion carries. And Barry's here. >> Morning, Barry. >> Morning.
>> When you've been here for over a decade, you can come anytime you want. >> All right, we will move on to the minutes. Does anybody have any additions or corrections to the minutes? >> I had none.
>> I had a couple and I got to find them. Um, if we go to page under transit where it says uh bus purchase in the amount of 165 with our local share of 13,000. I was thinking that should say including our local
share instead of our with our local share. Does that make more sense? page the >> page >> two of three >> two of three of the minutes or page four of >> the packet >> you just want the total reflect
correctly >> yeah it just seems like the purchase amount in purchase >> with our local share being 16,000 yeah being >> Yep. And then um the 245th
update presented by Kevin and Charlie. I don't know that they really presented anything. I'm maybe I'm just was in a mood when I went over minutes, but >> well, it was on the it was on the agenda for administration. So
>> probably more me. >> So just just put an update at >> I mean we could just say >> Kevin and Charlie were present. for the presentation for the up for the update. >> And then on that same thing, I I said uh
>> it says move on with it being a township road probably reference. I just said they are the township is moving forward with with recording that as a township road or as >> documenting it properly for >> recording it or Yeah. >> And then the bullet point number two um
I think September 1st deadline was a county deadline, county imposed deadline. the county, you know, Becker County will have a >> resol pres or plan by September 1st. It wasn't >> the township plan. It was the county
committed to having something. >> Then I had another one, but I don't know. Oh, the under the county um administrator the resolution 2261F delegation of authority with the modification of the annual agreement. I
don't know if we want to include more of what that is that for contracts. >> Yeah, we was that was the contract can sign off from if the increase isn't greater than 5% now we change >> 3%.
>> Yeah. So, I maybe just want to pass the resolution with the with the annual contract increase maximum being 3% rather than the 5% as original. Or you could just eliminate it and say we changed it in >> we changed it to 3% as part of the resolution. So, you don't have to
reference it. If you change it, >> I'm I was just thinking if I'm looking at the minutes and I see this, I would have no idea what that means. >> You could just say pass the resolution. >> Mhm. >> And we changed that before we passed it. So it's >> do you Yeah. Do you maybe need more
words in there for on behalf of the board? Is that what you're thinking? >> Or you could just not say anything. Just say you pass the resolution pertaining to annual contracts renewals >> because the as we record that resolution it will say 3%.
>> It came in the packet as 5% but when it was recorded it will be 3% like we said to change it. Correct. So reference to change will >> doesn't really tell you anything in the minutes. You should refer to that contract anyway that resolution. I mean >> Yep.
>> So it's like the minutes you you don't list the minute the changes in the minutes. You just approve the minutes. >> And then the last one that I had was just under the sheriff number two um with the out of state travel. I just wanted to make note that um the training
was reimbursed and that it was >> and I put detail the details of when and where too. So I mean so it's not a it's not a blanket. It's a one time. >> Yeah. And then I just put that the only cost would be the wages of car rental to the county.
That was all I had. >> Yeah, that was one that I had and you touched on the other one. So >> I'll make a motion to approve the minutes with the changes. All right, I have a motion. Do I have a second? >> Second. >> Any further discussion?
>> All those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> I. >> Opposed? >> Motion carried. All right, then we will move on to the consent agenda. Does anybody want wish to pull anything off the consent agenda? >> I was going to pull something off when I
looked at it initially. Um, I was looking at the assessor abatements and I saw that those were quite large. Then I looked at the looked at the numbers that they pertain to and I know what what they are now specifically the ones that I was so I'm not requiring that uh
>> I don't want but that was those changes struck me pretty quickly and then when I when I pulled those parcel numbers up then I saw what >> I remember the gentleman that was here we corrected that as good as we could. >> Yep. Yep. >> Correct. >> Because I would like some of those changes also.
>> Yes. I I'll vote for that. >> I will too. I think a lot of people. >> So So I will um make a motion to approve the consent agenda. >> All right. I have a motion to approve the consent agenda. Do I have a second? >> I'll second. >> Any further discussion?
All those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> Opposed. Motion carries. >> Open form. >> Nobody signed up. All right, we're moving right along. She might even be able to be on before 9ine.
>> Oh, we have to come on test 9. >> Oh, sure. Okay, we can move on to reports and correspondence. Who wants to go first? >> I want to start out by I brought my Becker eBay, my Becker Bay >> donation. >> This is kind of cool. Two gold backs. I don't know if you guys know what
goldbacks are. These are gold foiled >> gold for gold foiled currency. Cool. Two copper silver rounds. >> Nice, Barry. >> 110th silver. >> Oh, awesome. Thank you. So, now they're
on camera, so everybody's going to know. >> So, now everyone knows that those are >> Thank you. >> What are the gold foiled things? What is that? >> That's it's uh different states put out and I don't think it's stakes sanctioned, but they're they're gold.
There's in the in the >> paper >> in the paper itself, it's gold. So, they have actual value and there's a website that you can go on to and see what their value is compared to the currency. >> And there's some places that take that as currency, >> especially if you're in >> doom and gloom
>> in in the United States. Is it >> there? I can't remember what states are th those two are, but so they go so if you get a the one is a half a half I think that's one 1,000th of a ounce and >> um
>> or so. But they're kind of neat. They're collectible and they actually have value even if the collectible thing goes to goes away. >> Do you want to start with your reports too? Um, >> or do you want to >> Well, >> the second or third
>> I can I can start here. Just give me a second. >> All right. Who had courthouse host with me? Dave, >> I did. >> Um, went over some policies. There will be some policies in front of us. um approved the seasonal 4H staff which
is which is >> it's on the y >> which is u budget for um election judges is before us oh we have that compensation thing that'll be before us >> yeah we'll talk about that >> and then I think only thing that wasn't
that isn't on the agenda are the emails so we're going to start deleting emails that are more than two years old >> and how we're How soon are we going to do that? >> I you >> I can I can talk a little bit more about
that in my report. >> Okay. >> Okay. You You're not going to talk now. >> Oh. Um I >> Is it on your agenda or >> I have it in my list of things? I can talk about it now if it when would you like? >> We can wait till your report. Okay. Um the only other thing in courthouse I
think that's not on us we're going to look um we have an internship opportunity and um that looks like it's going to go well in the veteran service office from Morid State was it Minnesota State Morhead? >> Yes state >> um I call it Morhead State. It's the old
old school Morid State. >> Um oh it's that's on the agenda too. Dang it. Everything's on the agenda. Okay. I had joined powers. that wasn't on the agenda. Um, we had Beth Bethany Bethkkey representing uh DNR uh speak on us,
speak to us and she's she actually works out of Detroit Lakes office. Uh, she's the Red River Basin coordinator for the DNR um only on the Minnesota side obviously. And then we had Cassie Setter talk briefly on the North Dakota Minnesota supply chain soil health partnerships.
Soil health is her role and uh North Dakota has quite a quite a bit of money for soil health projects but they're smaller increments. Um it's better to go through NRCS if you can get those are larger but NRCS has more commitments um
or requirements and um big discussion of beaver control in different counties. of what they what we do with beaver and the bounty they have in Beaver. Um talked about I I brought up the dam removal at Bucks Mills for the sturge and the sturgeon. Um I think
it was two years ago now we had sturgeon that were actually um laying eggs and that's the first time we've had that in in that river. So >> um >> by the way, Commissioner Nelson, that road is closed. They're getting working on the Bucks Mills project or they got
the road closed signs out there. So, they're getting ready to start doing some work. Sweet. >> They mentioned that you had a brother, too. That was really good. It sound like we should try to get him coming to our meeting. >> He's on the North Dakota Water Commission. >> Yeah. So, they were well verssed in that and said that they were hoping that you
couldn't come to this meeting because they'd never get out of there or something. I don't I don't understand what happened. >> Um today, >> payback. They talked one of the things that was mentioned that um there's new there's a new law that's being proposed
or possible that the deal that um that they can take take the buffer law away from counties without them just giving it back. So if you require or remember we can give back the bows or their control over the buffer law but now they're trying to >> trying to have the authority to take it
if they don't feel the county is making them compliant enough or fines are adequate. So, um, that's one thing to keep an eye on. Um, >> is that the going through the legislation? >> It sounded like it was that was being proposed now. >> Okay.
>> Starts today. >> Anyway, um, for right now, that's it. I will organize here and get back on >> your meeting. >> Go ahead. >> Okay. So, I'll go. I can or if you want I hope. So, I I'll go. So, I had a I didn't have a historical society
meeting, but today um is Fat Tuesday and the historic the museum is is doing a shrimp boil from 11 to 1 and and also from 5 to 9:00. Um a shrimp boil is shrimp, potatoes, corn,
uh sausage, there's all kinds of stuff and it's really good. I don't know if anybody's ever had those before or sometimes it's a crab oil. Uh, it's really good. Um, Zeke Froman is uh is is cooking everything. So, and he's done it a bunch of times. So, if you guys want
to go eat sometime today, go to the museum and eat. Uh, I also had a courthouse bear we talked about. Then I had a Lakes Country Service Co-op meeting. And just a little quick little overview of what what what a what the service co-ops are and do. There's nine
service co-ops in in Minnesota. Um, our service co-op, Lakes Country Service Co-op, is pretty much District 4 of AMC except for I think Wadina and Todd counties are not in they're they're in the source service co-op. Um, but
anyway, basically they are a organization that offers services to uh schools, counties, cities, public organizations that for like mostly to schools. So they they give they give they do educating
teachers. They can take classes. They have they also take students like level four EBD students or special education students. They they'll have they have services for that. They have all kind they do all kinds of things. They also have a CDL class that they're working on starting. So there's there's some
there's some might there could be some benefits to our situation too if the especially if the tech school doesn't teach the CDL class anymore. Um, but anyway, back in 1993, they established a >> MState to me >> or Oh, okay. Yeah, I'm sorry. MState. In
93, they established a cooperative resources, Inc. and it was called and back in the 90s, you put incorporated or service, what organization or whatever. He said inc. Anyway, it's a 5013C, which is nonprofit organization. It was originally created to do
procurement with North Dakota. um for you know like when you do procurement they do pricing like Lakes Country Ser or Lakes Country Service Co-op or this this organization would procure pricing from a company and then they'd allow other entities that like schools or
cities or or counties to purchase equipment or items with that pricing and and actually that's what it was originally started but now they have a joint powers agreement with North Dakota so it that is not in effect anymore. So, basically, I'm talking about this cuz they're going to restructure it. Um, and
the advantages to having a 5013C nonprofit attached to or sort of attached to a service co-op is a service co-op can't do certain things or they can't give money to there's there's restrictions on
it and and and through if they have this nonprofit, they can do some of those things. They can get granting with the nonprofit 5013C. So that's why they that's why they have it. And then also one interesting thing that I found out that I didn't know didn't know. >> No, this will be a while. >> No, this won't be a while. This will be
like 30 seconds. So when you So Lakes Country Service Club offers insurance to organizations, public organizations, and they have a pool of money. Well, the state can request and take that pool of
money and then turn it into a statewide insurance if you know I if if it's if it works out if it's possible. Well, to prevent that from happening, they can move that money into the 5013c and then the state can't do that. So, it's kind of a protection gives them more
flexibility to do some of those other things. Um, but they are they're going to redo the bylaws. They're going to change the name and just update it a little bit because it's been a long time since it's was created. So, that's about all and that's about 30 seconds. Uh, and
then Phil and I had a H Heartland Trail meeting. Um, we decided that we are going to we would like to amend the 2011 master plan to include more area. So basically we we talked about including
all the area south of Lake Park and Ottoman pretty much to the Becker County line and then a little jut where that where county road 20 turns goes into Ottertale and juts down a little bit. We want to include that also um because there's a possibility we might look at
going that direction. Um also we want to explore the highway 10 corridor more too. So, because it seems to be a faster way to get the trail done. And that's it. >> Madame Chair, just to uh piggyback off
uh Commissioner Meyers discussion of the Harland Trail. So, uh expanding the corridor where the trail can go. It doesn't include the Corat area right now. >> So, it could take up to 16 months just to get the expanded corridor through. Uh
but things are really slow with the H Heartland Trail anyway. I mean, we've got to get the money and uh studies, but to expand this corridor to see if there would be a way to go through the corner area. It was the was a lot of our discussion
um on that. So, uh are you done? >> Yeah, I'm done. >> Okay. Um yeah, and then uh one call I did call down to Ottertale County. Now, the the trail from Pelican to PUM is not H Heartland Trail. And I just asked what was the county uh share of that, and
they said about 25% is what they thought to get that done because you don't really know where the H Heartland Trail is. There's a lot of trails around, but some of them are Heartland Trail and some of them you can just do your own thing and do offshoots of it because as we head down, we did that study to Bucks
Mills, you know, would that be Heartland Trail or would that be another trail? So all these things kind of intertwine but you have to know where your funding sources are and you know maybe H Heartland Trail funding maybe not. So um that was the discussion ve very enlightening learned a lot there. Um
okay uh the other thing I had is I had my first uh magic meeting. Uh magic is Minnesota association of governments investing in counties. Um US Bank is the back for all of this. They're not, they just handle all the the financial
investing for that. That's what I learned. Um, and their magic fund performance is a little above what you could get at the at the regular bank, but I thought it'd be more actually. Uh, since you're investing 1.9 billion at a time. Um, but just learned about the ins
and outs of that and, uh, pretty easy to do. You take county money, you invest it when they need it back. gets very liquid and goes out the next day whenever counties need it. Um, >> would that would that be something Mary's office would take most of her money then and put in there without and
not do the >> individual CDs like we're doing locally? >> Well, as I've talked to uh Mary, uh, you know, we we could put all of that money in magic if we wanted to, but I think we want to Mary's decided to stay local and and support a few banks around here,
too. There's always that 250 FDIC insured thing. Um I don't know if that applies to government investing as well, but we do try to support local uh banks, which I think is a good thing, but some of that money goes into the magic fund, too.
>> Yeah. As as the banking industry changes, there's less local banks >> around. I mean, what I consider local banks, they're they're big >> corporate banks. Correct. Yeah. Okay. Yeah, I know. I I don't have any problem supporting local local banks and local
economy, but um there's there is a point where the return is is we have to recognize the return for all taxpayers in the county also. So I mean it's a balance balance there I think. So I would like to see us maybe. >> So Commissioner Nelson recognize the
return >> meaning not support local banks because the return is greater at magic >> balance. If if the balance gets to be a point if the if magic gives you significant money more then you go to magic. >> It's not significant in my opinion. But >> that's where I'm saying
>> I think Mary's done a really nice job of >> farming these out to local banks. She has and she she's somebody's got to keep tabs on that and and she's done a nice job in mind. >> That's what I mean though. If there was if it's 2% correct, >> you go to magic. If it's a half a percent, we stay local.
>> And Mary does a very nice job of making sure the local banks know what we're getting at the magic >> and I know she's she takes there and she goes in there and Mary is a very good watchdog for our financials. There's no doubt. >> Thank you, Mary, for what you've done.
Okay. Uh, so that was my magic fun stuff. Also had uh a recreational advisory committee, the rack with Erica. Um, project 412 is working real hard on this trail alliance trying to come up with a logo, so we viewed that. Um, I'd never seen anything on the Dun Locks
tram. I was kind of educated on that. There's a financial component to that and people I I I guess I didn't know that. Um, so um, we run the tram. We're responsible for that as the county. Yes. And at our at our NR meeting, and I just pulled my notes up for that, we are
we've ran we've made money the last couple years, um largely in part because the um I think the Lake Sally Association and and those surrounding that have fundraised for repairs in the past and they've they've got significant money to help with those repairs and the
repairs. Now, I think Mitch and excuse me, Mitch said that that new design or that new wheel is working a lot better and I'm not familiar with that. John John Hokasen was the one that would was spearheading that all unlike Sally. >> Did that dock that new dock get put in this year?
>> Oh, in on the mud lake mean this winter >> or last summer? >> No, last summer. >> Yeah, we had dock. >> We put it last year. >> No, it's kind of coming up. It's not >> But did we put it in last summer or is it going to come in this spring? That was my question. last year did put in did put in last year.
>> I don't know. I think Steve will have to confirm or Mitch to see if that make sure that >> Where's that at? It's It's on the Mud Lake. >> Yeah, because he was we were talking that we unloaded people and big because the boats are getting so big. So, we asked people to unload weight when they
cross the tram because it was too much stress on the tram. >> So, I would get to stay on the >> So, that's we have you push it and then we wouldn't have to even >> That has a lot to do with how well it's been working. >> Yeah. Ask. Yeah, we're unloading on >> we put a dock out so people could easily get off
>> get off there and get their cooler big coolers and stuff off. So that's that. Yeah. So hopefully it'll it'll just keep running nicely. >> Okay. Uh so we discussed that. Thank you for the initial the the extra discussion here. I didn't know those things. Um and
then we talked about the Wanigan roundabout going into Wanigan Park over in Freze and the county commitment and what that all looks like. a lot of details to be worked out there yet. >> Um, Harland trail we talked about and just one other thing in the consent. Uh, we talked about those lit intersections
in the county. Um, so we got the final payment we approved in the consent agenda, but just so you know, and I think this is a big thing to push out to our constituents. We've got 31 lit intersections in our county now. Uh, which I think is a really it's it's a really good thing for our residents. I
they seem to be safer. I see them all around as well. Um, but that was a federal grant. Um, the the the fee is about, what did Jim say? He said $31 to $60 um to to fund those monthly, but to keep
them lit. Uh, that seems like a pretty pretty reasonable cost. Um, 2012 we did five projects. 2018 the county did 13 projects. And then 2025 we had 11 intersections that were lit up with federal grant money. But that's a good thing and I think that's something we
should all u make sure we get out to our constituents that this is making our county better. And that's all I have >> just to add to that and I don't know if this was part of rack I believe I believe project 412 um mentioned it that
the um economic summit on and I think is that through this city it's March 27th um but that it's same number I got >> there is a a session or the economic summit summit is on the economic impact
of outdoor recreation so if anybody's interested in attending And that was all I had um to add to the rat committee. Do you want me to do human services? >> Yeah, I'll let you do that. Okay. >> Um I had NRM with Barry.
>> Uh we talked about the little sugar bush tax forfeited property with the tribe and they're they're going to probably help us maintain and do things there. And they they it looks like we might get a new dock from him, right, Barry? That's what he said. They had >> they said they had a a dock that was
possible. They were going to check into it. >> We might possibly get from them. Um we'll talk about the cabin there later. I see that's coming up later. Um we talked about yurts. I don't know everybody knows what a yurt is, but it's
like a canvas igloo. I learned >> we've been talking about, but they're kind of expensive. >> So, we did find out they're Scandinavian, ain't they? Is that Mongolian? >> Mongolian Mongolian. That's right. Mongolian. That's right. That's what it was. >> What is this for?
>> Well, we're talking. >> Well, we earlier in the year, we put out a a charge to to the rack committee to find one or two spots for like a yurt. >> Yeah. >> Um I don't know and we haven't heard back, but we um they were bringing this
the costs of them back to us to show how much they cost. >> And the tribe is or >> No, no, us. county at NR and and we talked about it earlier in the year to to have a campsite with a yurt. We're looking into what requirements we have to have for for bathroom facility and
water facility. So >> So this would be like a campsite. >> It's an a so it's a little dome >> and it's like most of them are one room. Some of them have plumbing in them, some have nothing. >> Some are some people have. We the kind of expensive so we might go to teepeees
but we >> well the and that's one thing I we were serious >> we ventured >> the teepeees aren't aren't that's not how the >> our local tribe that's not there that's more of a traveling >> but theirs were >> wigwam >> wigwams wigwam
>> were you were there weren't you oh that's right >> so that so I mean it >> it'd be kind of interesting to incorporate that also but >> and this is up for up at sugar that sugar bush No, this was just anywhere on this was just uh anywhere on tax for land to try to find a um suitable site
for u I mean maybe along the hiking trail, >> you know, to give shelter if someone's hiking and they want to spend a night out in the >> um woods. But >> Madam Chair, is this Commissioner Nelson, is this uh permanent or temporary or seasonal? >> Yours are permanent. >> I >> I mean it's permanent as they're just
covered. They're not >> I mean they're not going to last forever. They're not going to be taken out. >> Yeah, I think so. I think the material can be different on all of them and you can fine-tune it however you want, but um it's something that we're looking into trying to move forward with establishing um where a need might be or
and I think and I was pretty sure that we charged that we asked Rack to to find a spot or two for those. I mean, I remember asking it in this meeting. I mean, at the board meeting early in the year, but you've had a lot of information traveling through that little circle spinning wheel.
>> I don't remember. Well, I can find it in >> Did you dream? >> I can go find it in the Thanks >> videos if you want. >> Anyway, >> there's a yurt up on your screen. >> There you go. >> That's a big one. >> That's a big yurt. >> Yeah. >> So, that those those canvas covers are
supposed to last longer. They should last longer than shingles. >> So, they the roof will Yeah, that's what I when I read about them. Yeah, that's what they said. >> Interesting. >> There 20 30 to years maybe they before you have to you can treat it with like something too. about what shingles left.
>> Yeah, I suppose about shingles at 25. >> Hey Barry, you got anything you want? >> The committee add can be 20 like 25 to 35,000. I think we can probably find them cheaper, smaller ones also. Um and that was recommended bring to rack to discuss their interest
or other ideas. Um the Bucks Mills project I think the update Asheville construction of a um was the su successful contractor or 3.1 million and they're obviously um Phyis
said they're already starting that and let's see um one one thing it's we looked at um they wanted some a side by side or another four-wheeler for for NRM for the
Forester. Um they didn't want to share a four-wheeler going through the woods as which seemed reasonable, but um I suggested that we look into um the sheriff has numerous numerous four-wheelers and and UTVs and if we can if they have one in surplus cuz when
they bought that last U the Ranger, we did not get rid of anything. So, I'm sure there there's probably at least a four-wheeler that's in excess. Or maybe we can just share because the amount of use I I just think there needs to be some partnership there. I don't think we
want to buy another how many we saw when we were out on tour. We certainly have enough ATVs and um >> you know, but I you know, two guys on a four-wheeler. No, it just And that's what they're doing now, >> right? But if they had one more, they'd each have a four-wheeler
>> and Oh, okay. Well, that way, but then it's this time of year, it's really nice to have a enclosure in a heater. I don't know if you're if you're talking in back and forth with the logger and going through stuff. I don't know. So, but
yeah, you're right. If if they each had a four-wheeler, it' be a lot better. But >> the other the other thing we talked about is they're looking to upgrade their pickup. They have an old 2018 or 2011 um pickup. Um and then they have a 2018 Chevrolet Suburban that used to be
with the STS crew. Well, we don't certainly need a and the Suburban, I guess, is fairly decent. So, I would suggest that we sell that. Hopefully there's a vehicle that highway or sheriff has that we can up because I think there was some pickups in there, but we got to we got to find inventory
and and make sure we >> Madam Chair, don't we have to be careful about wasn't it SDS? Wasn't that purchased with sheriff funds? Um I'm not sure where the funds were, but I think as that program's dissolved, I think that I mean that's
>> I think and I'm pretty sure that um when we talked about this earlier, the state was very willing to to dissolve these partnerships. So I mean you can't go back and track those. So, but I mean there's some checking to do, but um I think we need to
liquidate some of the equipment we have. And if we need a new new vehicle, then we need a new vehicle. But let's let's exhaust or forward let's exhaust and make sure we can get rid of some. I mean, I think we're I think we have a little bit too much too many too many things sitting around.
>> Yeah. Yeah. And I think we need to get better about partnering between departments and cross >> I mean there's no >> utilizing equipment and >> yeah's about that at finance with snowplowing. >> No reason to sit sit on these
four-wheelers and let them you know >> no and and maybe maybe we trade them in or something too. I don't know. But I I think we need to get an inventory of of all of our equipments and say, you know, if we're going to keep all this, it needs a sh it needs a share department department. I mean, the amount of time
that the NRM would need it is, you know, during the day. I mean, during and if the sheriff had an emergency, I mean, they still have a lot of units, but they needed more, then they could it's already out in the fields and most likely it's going to be closer to where it's needed than I mean, if there's a rescue, it's going to be northeast. It's
not going to be >> you're not going to need multiple ones, I would think. But >> but anyway, I think it's a I think it's a maybe a good session day for discussion, Phil. >> Yeah, work session. >> Thanks. >> But I think we need I would like to have a full inventory of of equipment and and
let's say what what can we share and it will be nice if if we could if as we move forward get a central location for all of this equipment like you know like we're proposing >> um >> and then it would be a lot easier. So, especially if it was if the if if
something comes to fruition, then we have a good spot. It's out a little bit more central located or over to the east a little bit. So, >> um excuse me, Barry. Um Madam Chair, I was just that was on my list as well as far as equipment and vehicles. So, um I
have brought up brought that topic up to some of the department heads as well. So, I think we're all on the same page of how we could better utilize resources within the county. Mhm. Um, >> and I had safety and so now we we have a
nurse trained to do CPR training and AED training. >> And so, uh, we're going to start with highway. I think it's going to take two different sessions. Is that right?
>> Yeah. Yeah, there was at least two. I think they were like eight to 10. >> Yeah, I think they can do eight. She can do eight at a time. And so, um, and she can even train it. She can train people to train, right? Did I get that right >> or not?
>> Uh, she's a trainer. I don't know if she can train us. >> I thought we talked about that, but I don't remember that. I might be wrong. But anyway, now, so that's going to save us some money and we're we're going to get that training done right here. >> Nice. >> Uh, and that's uh Erica, you're going to
handle human services. >> Well, a couple other things on NRM. Um Mary brought up that there's about a hundred unrecorded deeds from the 40s that need to be >> Oh yeah. >> um researched and recorded. Um >> and we brought those to courthouse and and I think we we recommended that that
that we get those done and that we would absorb that cost through the recorder's office. I don't >> that's is that how you interpret it? >> That's how I interpret it. >> Madam Chair, Commissioner Nelson, what uh what kind of cost you're looking at that? >> Well, it's it's work hours. >> Just work hours. I don't think there's
any cost besides you know doing it. I mean the hours that recorder's office would take to do that. Usually they charge the recorder's office charge a fee to do this. That's how we generate income. But you don't we going to charge a fee to the auditor's office to >> I mean let's say
>> okay so it's hours. Okay. >> It's time time and res from 1941 >> 42. >> Um >> commissioner what would that do? How would that help us now or it would just it would just clean it up for the future?
>> It's Mary, you want to touch on it? >> Right now $7,000 >> some of these have been sold many times. It would have cost them a dollar and a quarter. >> Yeah, but they didn't have a dollar and a quarter. >> Okay.
>> And they were handwritten. And we asked Mary if she had handwritten them. She said no. >> Aren't they currently in >> They're in like a paper. >> Yes, we have. We I mean if we lost them, we'd be in a lot more concern. >> I agree. Um,
we also Richard I think and Carrie I know the email was sent to Carrie about there's a meeting um dealing with the with some tribal and DNR people up in Manomomen County that were invited to Rich Richard and I >> we did and this has to do with the the
White Earth Forest um agreement that the DNR and tribe signed. There's some other counties have some concerns and when we talked with Dusty and Dave at our meeting um I mean we I think our relationship has improved drastically. I mean with the tribe and these and
specifically to these two gentlemen and I think Jessica comes down once in a while and Richard Hanks come has been at a couple meetings. I think this this has helped us. I don't think those other counties have that relationship is I don't think they're building that quite as good as we are right now. Um, and
this is part of that. They want to better understand the agreement with the DNR and I think it will help us understand that agreement because there are some concerns that have been brought to my attention and I don't think there's that intent. Um, but I think we need, you know, if you discuss it in a round table, I think that helps. So,
>> well, I think the newspaper did report that somebody from the tribe did mention that this doesn't include anything with the land transfer and then there was a comment about that they they would still like but it's not part of this,
>> right? And I think there there was >> theou y >> and theou and that's there's some just some questions that there was a mention of tax forfeit land in there somehow and and um and I and I told the individual I don't think that they can do that because that's legislatively I mean that that's
>> if if that changes that has to come through legislation. So >> um and we'll I mean if the land transfer we'd we'd fight it with I mean y >> fight at that again or argue that. So, um >> I know I did have um somebody from Forest Township, a supervisor from
Forest Township reach out to me to see what information I knew about the MOU cuz they had had >> because there's a lot of white earth forest land in Forest Township, right? But >> and I I don't know a whole much more than what the newspapers said. >> What Dusty and Dave said, it's it's just putting on paper what they have been
doing. I mean that and I >> I trust these guys. They and I think our foresters worked well together and our um so >> um >> they helped us get that logging done. They helped us get them >> that >> archae archaeological
stuff out of the way. So really it's been very good. It's been a good thing for us. So >> and it goes better when we get a you know when >> there's a good relationship between between us. Oh, >> okay. I just want to mention that meeting that Rich and I are going to go
and I assume that's through an NRM meeting, so we don't need to change anything and >> Okay. >> Okay. I just have um human services, Richard and I had that. We did um I just wanted to bring to this board's attention, we did review a pricing
agreement with Omega Labs. Um it's so human services had had previously had a contract with a third party to complete all their or to do to get their um hair follicle and drug testing supplies from
and they are no longer doing that. They're going to go directly with Omega Laboratories. Um and we didn't feel it was necessary to bring to finance and board because there's no dollar amount. There's no contract that you have to buy this much. it's just this is how much we're going to charge you. Um so we
agreed with it, but we um just said we would bring it up at the in our board report just to let you know that that's um what we're doing. >> So is that cheaper than the previous one? >> I don't I believe so because the this is where the third party was getting the
supplies from. So it kind of takes that middleman out. But um one other thing we just to note, we did review our year-end budget and we did come um come in under budget significantly. So again, kudos to human services for always doing a a
great job with their budgeting. Um and then just the last thing I wanted to note, in January they had um a audit of the an exit review based on 64 files that were randomly sampled for their waiver and disability services. and it
was in adult services, behavioral health and public health and for the first time ever there was no correct corrective actions. Um it was a very positive results. Um it was also noted by the reviewers that through this audit process they interviewed the staff as
well and the staff were very positive. They felt supported. They had no issues with the policies and procedures. So, um, kudos to that team because, as you know, Minnesota's in the news for some not great things, especially around
the that area. So, I think it's it's always great to see that our county is doing such a fabulous job. So, that was all I had for human services. >> Um, just just a quick shout out to human services, too. I mean, there there's a lot of negative press, but I I think
we've our our staff over there is has always been really really good. So, um >> thank you guys. And we've had you know over the years numerous times where we have the highest highest highest >> um respect from state. I mean it seems like the highest respect from state
because our we get all the time we get >> um reports of of high standards. So >> there's very good leadership over there throughout the whole thing. It just is Yeah. Um, one other committee that I haven't touched on was the Buffalo Red Policy
Committee. And Richard, if you received some emails, you're on that committee and and you weren't on you missed that. >> Yeah. And I didn't know about that. >> Um, but anyway, that we we approved moving forward with with a grant application for our mid the one wershed,
one plan. Um, there they they want a midpoint review of that. So we we did move forward with applying for a grant to do that um through and the people that do that would be Houston Engineering. Um the grant is up to 30 50,000. We we approved for the the quote
was 35,000. Um and we also had another meeting looking at options for tracking in the future on on these to make it better. Um, and there's a couple couple of things that we looked at, but we did um contract with uh um Houston's going
to buy this other software and it's a it's no annual fees that we had two choices and one had an annual fee to keep updating the software, but it's just an accounting of the it tracks how much soil and sediment and phosphorus you save and and and just kind of tracks all that stuff. So, um,
>> go to that when my cousin's in for Jay Thomas because >> he's even he's got the uh >> someone online is uh >> talking >> talking. I know that voice. >> I couldn't pick it. So, at um at we're at 9:00.
>> Yep. Any anything else for reports before we move on to Do we have any appointments? I don't think we do. >> No appointments. All right. We will move on to human resources then. >> You can't get much better than that. timing was. >> I know. Perfect.
>> Doesn't happen very often. >> Good morning. I have one item before you all today. So, it's an update to the compensation system policy in the personnel policy. Um, you can go through the updates in the policy, but
really what the biggest update is is adding in how we will move people into the new grades as we do review and maintenance through DDA and place them into those new grades and what step they would come in at. Um, my recommendation
here is to move them into the new grade with a 1.5% at least a 1.5% increase and place them on the next closest step. Um, Tessa is online. Carrie also was here when this all kind of started. So, they have a
little bit more background information, but the other two attachments do highlight what the changes were for 2026, what their rates would have been had they been moved in at the next closest step, no 1.5% increase, what the 1.5%
increases, and then what they would move in at if they had moved at the current step that they were at from 2025 into 2026. Um, the last attachment there goes over what the cost differences would be. So, as you can see, if they move to the
next closest step without the 1.5%, there's really not a huge cost savings for the county. It's about $12,000 in this case. But if they moved into the current step from 25 into 26, there's an additional cost of about $48,000 for the
county. And this is for 11 positions. Yeah, we talked about it quite a bit at finance. Um, you know, there was discussion um that really advocating for us to do the the going
into the step that they're in on the above grade. And I just think that we have we made a decision when we implemented the the wage study, you know, a couple years back to do it this way. And I think I think we stick to
that in my opinion. Yeah, it it it upset people before >> and now if we change it now, it's going to upset people again. So, I think that we should be consistent and stay with the way we were doing it. And >> Madam Chair, Commissioner Barber, I
wasn't here for all this, but I mean, isn't that what you're doing? We are changing something, right? Some of this work in here. >> Not We are, but not >> what we did before. So, what we're doing, Phil, is doing it just the way we did it before. And if we do anything different, we're going to get we're
going to make everybody angry that was angry before. >> And and we should just there isn't any we decided to do it that way and everybody got everybody's getting treated pretty good in the county and to change it now would would not be fair
and you're all about being fair. So, you know, >> and the and the reason we we went this way to begin with was because of the significant costs that it would have to the county. Mhm. >> Um, so I I agree with with what Tira has proposed in that we we look at the next
closest step with that includes a 1 and a half% increase. >> I I I agree with most of what you guys were saying and the only reason I we had we it was brought to our attention in courthouse and I thought about it a lot. So current so we're they're in let's say
they're in a grade eight for example they're they they get a step every every time they get an anniversary they get a step. So that is basically based on how long you've been here. >> Mhm. >> So now they they re-evaluate their position and then they move up a grade,
but they don't get that they don't stay on that same step. Now I understand why, but I also understand they're they're saying that, well, why did I lose a year of experience? Because I got a new a new because my got job got re-evaluated and I got put on a new grade, which is
what's happening. >> And that's what happened. in their in their in their in their in their thought process. So I I see it as a little different. When we started the whole process, we put them in where they were um that when they went into the new they wouldn't go down, they'd go up, you know, to the next step. But now this to
me is a little bit different because now we're evaluating their position and now we're g, you know, we're we're staying with the market instead of moving them into a brand new scale. >> But they they would still they would still remain in the market. >> Yes. But I'm just saying
>> that the market is on the position, not the person. >> Yes, I understand that. But the years of experience goes is not going with the person. That's their argument. >> So where where I end up and and I've I can I'm thinking of mind a specific
situation where we've had a this wasn't in Beck, this wasn't a county employee, it was a affiliate. um when you hire a new person and I I'm I would like to pick examples
but I won't I won't speak specifically specifically but department heads >> so if we are falling behind the market now when you have a retirement or a someone leaving and they're a department
head and you're hiring will you get that person that you knew hire coming in for more less or more money than what you're paying the current one. That's where that's where so you have a department head that that leaves for whatever reason and you hire someone else. Now you're negotiating where are you going
to be in that those lanes. So you have a current one that you're putting in lane one or two and you have this new person that just comes in. You're trying to recruit them and hire them and you're going to put them at five. That's That's where I'm like, we had someone here that was working their tail off for years and now we're
hiring a new person and they're they're making more money than the person that just left. That's where I really find the that's where my rub comes. >> Mhm. >> And I don't know what to do with it. I would just soon go with this and make it easy and move forward. But that really hurts when you leave a place and they re
refill your position with someone higher price than what you left. That's where that's where mine is like, oh crud. when you can negotiate those department heads and and and you to get someone decent. >> Madam Chair, Commissioner, that's where I'm at. So >> wouldn't wouldn't like the longevity things would those overcome that?
>> There's no hardly any longevity in in Becker County right now. What do you have to be for? >> It's at the start of 16 years for anyone that was hired after four years 16 years before. >> How many of our department heads have
been here? I mean that changed in 2018. >> Correct. Yeah. So I would say most the majority >> before 2018 you're getting you're on the old longevity scale which means you're getting >> so maybe maybe Tesla can just >> discuss this a little bit and say you
know cuz now I brought I mean I that's where I'm at. It's like I'd love to just slide into this but if we have to hire someone new and they have to pay them more than what the person just left that's where I'm like dang it we we >> that's where I'm like dang it that's not
that's not fair. That's to me I that's that's a scenario that comes to me and like ah that's not I don't like that that's and I've seen it happen and >> and and I'd also like to point out too that this is from half of the jobs not a
not 25% or a third that we were going that we would review every year you know year so this could be this is probably more than it would be on a normal basis >> I I will actually add madam chair if I Okay. Um, yes, it is from half of the
positions, but these were the smaller departments. So, here in 2026, we'll be reviewing those larger departments like human services, the sheriff's department that have a number of people in positions. So, you could be looking at a significant difference if you just
regrade one position because there's 20 plus people in just that one position. So, I do agree that we we potentially won't have as many that are happening for regrading each year as we do maintenance, but there will be some. And if you do happen to have one in one of
those larger departments that have a number of people, the cost could be significant. >> I guess I guess my question to Tessa would be, is this something that's done normally done or is is it something that that you could do with just department heads to review? I mean a specific group
because that's where that's where kind of my concern is. Well, if it's a position that has numerous then it's not the same. I don't know. Tessa, maybe help me say what I'm trying to think. >> Wow, that's a lot to ask.
>> I know. I don't know if I have that much time. >> Yes. You know my very >> Yes. No, I I you bring up good points. I mean, I would say so overall we work with um you know, I think 60ome counties and I only have one county that actually
does it and I don't remember which one so I apologize but I know that they actually do the you keep your same step. It's expensive to um to your point. Um most will do what is being proposed. you move them into next step closest to um
you know Terra has a 1.5 some will say a 3% that means you're getting at least a step do you know what I mean so you could change that um so I think that's one like side of this I think what you're referring to is department heads
because if they're being reclassified and they have to go back and we hire it's always a rub that somebody will make more than I did when I left and I have all of this experience. I mean, you could have a policy based on leadership pay and that could be addressed that
way. Um, the other thing I was just thinking as you were um >> talking it Yeah. Well, no talking just because I I um you know this is a problem that everyone faces. Nobody they feel like they're going backwards and they're really not
because we don't know exactly when the part of it is the job description changed too. Do you know what I mean? So, have they always been doing those duties? Probably not. But I I get their argument that this is where I was, you know, I want to stay there. But as a
board, it is a lot of money. Um, but one thing you could do is if it's based on tenure, your policy could say if you've been with the county at least, you know, let's just say five or maybe your magic number is eight years, then you you maintain that step. Do you know
what I mean? So you are rewarding for that tenure. Um, and that maybe would help with some of the costs. Sorry Carrie and Tara. I was just thinking this while we were talking. So I don't if you could kick me I'm sure you would. But I think to your point
>> so you bean bags >> may um >> sorry >> we have not talked to Tessa about this. Carrie and I just briefly discussed it. It's a thought. It's an idea. potentially our non-union employees because we have the ability to do it
moving to merit-based pay versus I mean it they would still stay on the scale like in the range that they're currently in that wouldn't change DDA would still review for market but that could be a potential to reward more on merit versus
just on an annual basis you do get a step has not been vetted but it's an idea as well >> and you could start that that's a good point you could start that with leadership pay. Then you can control that where they are and where they move.
You don't have as many people in leadership positions. Do you know what I mean? They're usually single incumbent position. So a reclassification change wouldn't be that much. And leadership pay is um sometimes reviewed differently because if you have
a department head that goes, it's probably going to be a statewide search or even a national search. Do you know what I mean? just for looking for some of the requirements. So that that could be something you you put into effect also. >> I could get I could get behind the
leadership. I don't know that I could get behind the non you know the >> I think the leadership pay is kind of would solve the concern that I have when you have leadership that that has the experience that's been serving and now you know. So, um, Madam Chair, maybe
maybe we um have some more review on this or or see see what that leadership would look like and how to incorporate that incorporate that in the policy. Would that >> is that something we would like to review now or I know Carrie Carrie's in a tough
position because she's >> I just don't really feel like I can offer any um because I'm on this list so I just don't really feel like I can give you any input. >> So, I got a question for Tiara. Do you are these people currently moved to their new grade? It was just what step
we're going to put them on. So they're So I I just want to make sure they're moved to the grade and we can So because if we put this on hold, I don't want them to not get their grade. >> Correct. They did move as of 1 one of the year with the 1.5% okay per >> numerous other discussions, but it was
not in policy previously. So wanting to clean that up and make sure that we have a consistent policy for >> So Tira and Tessa my question would be so if we pass this today and then could we bring back and review um leadership pay would that kind of in a separate or
amended portion to this is that >> I think we also need to define what what is leadership >> advisor is it department head is >> that's where we'd have test come back >> I think you clearly define what that is madam chair um and that would be part of
the policy And it is not atypical to view leadership pay and Carrie doesn't have to be in that conversation. Um but but I think I think it is viewed different become from because of a recruiting standpoint if somebody leaves
as a department head if that's where the the level is defined um the recruitment will be a lot bigger scope. So you have to be um a little bit easier and they're coming in with probably more years of experience. Do you know what I'm saying? Because you're not going to have someone
that's new um generally. So, I think that's a that's a good um effort. And then also the people that are currently moving that Terra is bringing forward. Remember, they're going to get a 1.5% increase with their cola January 1st and then on their step they'll move another
or their I'm sorry on their anniversary date they'll move another step. So, they are moving through the you know. >> So, >> yeah. and and and it won't affect anybody that already had a step because it starts at the beginning of the year.
So, >> yeah. >> Yep. >> I I would like I think move forward with with >> what we have in front of us. Make make that a motion to approve >> um with the >> with more review with Tessa and Tiara on
the >> leadership >> leadership grade and how how that where we would set those numbers or how we would how that would look. But I think there's there's some work there to to review. >> So, >> did you make a motion? >> Motion to approve. >> I will second.
>> All right. I have a motion to approve the compensation policy and a second. Any further discussion? >> Uh, yes, Madam Chair. Um, I'm sorry, I'm I'm behind the curve in all this. All you guys are ahead of me, but what is the difference between uh
leadership pay and longevity pay? Are we have to define this leadership pay? Is this going to be something that's objective or subjective to what >> Tiara Carrie decides? >> I would say Tira and Tira and Tessa and whatever committee we go through, we'll
come up with some guidelines and and put those in front of you. Longevity pay is available for everyone. um leadership pay obviously would be we that's to be defined but I would assume more towards your department heads in your or or maybe even there if there's a position
that's very unique that might have to be nationwide search for something and I don't know what that would be but just positions that are that you would negotiate your salary coming in and and at at the department head range um >> new new employees
that the longevity policy is different. >> So that that longevity policy changed in 2018. >> Yeah, I got it right here. >> So if you were hired after 2018, >> you I mean there isn't essentially >> Yeah. >> 16 years is when it started. >> 16 years.
>> So in addition to to salary, we've got overtime pay, we've got break pay, we've got shift hours, working nights and weekends, we've got uniform pay. So this would be in addition to that subset of your regular pay. This would be an additional thing. >> The leadership pay. Yeah.
>> No, the leadership pay would just be, and you guys correct me if I'm wrong, would just be where we're going to put them on the scale >> there. It's no additional. >> It's it's kind of a negotiation for how we would put them on in the steps. >> Think of it think of it as a pay philosophy of how you pay leadership and
how they move through the scale. They're not getting in addition to pay. All of the pay that you just um listed is for non-exempt employees. um leadership pay wouldn't be um and this would be how
they move through the step system and or if there's an evaluation. >> Okay. So, they would still fit within this chart. >> Yep. Exactly. >> Yep. >> And we have to we would have to define that. >> How how what's the pro we'd have to
define the process of how we put them where we put them. >> Yep. Exactly. >> Madam Chair Tira, does this ever end? This is like building a plane while it's in the air with passengers. I mean, I thought this was going to be done. You know, you went through this DDA study
and and here we are. These issues seem to keep floating to the top. >> You don't know there's a problem until there's a problem. So, I I think as things come up, we're going to continue to address them. And I can't tell you how many more problems are going to come up. I think it's a functioning system
the way that it is until something comes up and a concern is raised and then we have to address it. And this is new to this county, correct? You know, we we haven't >> historically worked with DDA to make sure that our pay scale
>> is maintained. So, this is new to us. This is the first year we've done done it. So, we address it as it comes. So Tessa, when you're dealing with other counties, is this a pretty regular occurrence or is there a time when you kind of level out and things run smoothly or
>> Well, yeah, that's called um you know the the makebelieve world. No, I would say that pay pay is very similar to your pavement improvement plan. Your employees are your organizational infrastructure. Your
roads are your exterior like infrastructure. You're never done with highways. You seal coat them. You crack fill them to maintain them. That's exactly what we're doing with the employees. The difference here is if you say we're done, we're just going to put
it on a shelf and wait. Then you have this huge wage gap to make up. What we're doing is we're having these discussions more frequently so you can get annoyed with me more frequently. But we're trying to minimize the budget disruption and or at least address these
issues as they come up versus waiting for when we have a ret a recruitment or retention issue or you know a a a bigger risk. So it is never done um and it shouldn't be because the market keeps
moving. Um, but the thing is we want it to be as smooth as it can be. So you have good talented employees, but from a fiscal sidepoint, we want to be able to watch where we are and make those minimal dis changes so we're not having
a huge wage gap. So we would rather maintain the road so we don't have a complete reconstruct. >> Thanks for dumbing it down for commissioners. All right. Any further discussion before we vote?
>> All those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> Opposed. >> Motion carries. >> Thank you. >> Thanks, Tessa. >> You too. >> Becker Bay is on next. Uh, has anyone brought in anything for >> I think we had one commissioner bring something.
>> Oh, gee. Who's that? I don't know. That's why I was it fell between my seats. I'm trying I scratched myself in the trying to get it. So that's why I was >> That's why he was late. >> Well, I was that minute of it anyway. >> I was late. >> On to Carrie.
>> On to me. Thank you, Madam Chair. Um just a few updates for you. Um on the 245th Avenue, uh aka Landfill Road. Um I had met with Mr. Skoo and he is getting quotes for different types of fencing
and gating and cameras. So that is all moving forward. I've also had uh further discussion um with Mr. Jaskkins and the township did pass a resolution uh with a timeline. I know we originally talked about September September. um
their resolution had indicated that um they would like the gate um to be removed by June of um 2026. They did pass a resolution with regards to that. >> Madam Chair, I did have a a secondhand
conversation and I was told that that's not that the land owners might not be might prefer just an easement. And I mean, so there's still some area where um if the landowner has agrees to an easement and
the gate and the locked gate at the main road, I think the township can incend if the if the landowner is fine with that, that still might be on the table. This is from I won't say >> Well, I'm not sure which one you talked to, but I talked to the one who's
representing the family group is what he told me. >> I think there's I think there's numerous family members and I don't think there's agreement there either. So that we're having some we're hearing different sides of or different >> well the one that has been talking with
the township that's not on the table at all and they >> that's and that's what I was told. I haven't talked to all he just kind of has has it's um I can't think of his name now. Mike >> Mike
>> Mike Ingam um he's the one he's the one that's been doing all of this with the attorney from he's the one who contacted me in the beginning and he he tells me no so absolutely not because I've asked him several times to make sure that this is what so I haven't heard that from him
um but >> have we have we looked at I know there's been discussion of possible development is that something that it can be developed. Have they do they know the Isn't there some zoning that requires
it? >> If it's a township road, it would be fine for development. >> And if it's not, it has to have a 66T easement. >> Yeah. And it's not going to have a 66 ft easement. No, we have properties, more properties on driveways and roads there.
It can be looked at. There can be some housing back. Our goal here is we want to provide they're going to get the access that they I mean if they wanted a township road it can be I mean I'm fine with it being a township road but that township road might go all the way through their property. >> Mhm.
>> I mean it doesn't >> Well, they're talking about absing that south end of that road and they can do that. >> They they can do that but I'm just saying how what do you mean they can do that? >> They can vacate a road with a public hearing. They can the township can have
a public hearing and vacate and they are but I'm saying I thought you meant the property owner. No, >> we we will support either either way. I mean it makes we will we want to we're going to partner and get this resolved. So if they want to just use an easement for now and come back later, I don't I
don't have a problem either way. >> I don't have a problem with it. But I haven't So the one that the township township is dealing with, Mike, >> I'll touch base with you after the meeting. Yeah, we could I'd see something get worked out. It It doesn't >> It doesn't cost the county. >> Yeah, it doesn't sound like it. And it's not going to cost us what we were
saying. >> No, it's we found out >> it's not going to be that expensive. So, >> but I mean, we're looking for the solution. We're I mean, we're we're >> definitely >> committed to finding the solution that works for the land owner. >> And I think and I think the issue with the the fencing is is it's not just the
cost of it, it's the disruption that it operations. I'm going to tell you I'm not seeing the disruption. >> Well, the disruption would be gating our two gates to cross, >> but the management of security. I mean, and and I know there's there's not
>> significant concern there, but >> you do have to you do have to have something there. But so, I mean, I'm just we're just committed to figure out what's what >> I am, too. And that's and just this is the first I've heard of that and I' I've talked I've talked to Mike quite a few times now. So, >> but if if it depends on who's going to
end up with it of the family, that's the person you want to that's the person that has >> Well, there's a group of them that are going to that are going to own this. There's a group now it's going to be smaller >> in the future. >> Anyway, >> so >> okay.
>> So, that continued moving on getting the quotes >> correct and my conversation with Mr. Jaskkins was also if there is a need or if it would be helpful you know future meetings could be had between you know township family andor county to come up
with the solution. >> Um >> madam chair meetings were I've had a call in to uh the township for two weeks to go out there and drive around and look at some of that stuff and I haven't heard back yet. I've called twice. So, I
mean, >> well, I we looked at it again, Phil, the other day. So, um but but we've also looked at it several times. And so, >> I'd like an invitation to that meeting. >> Well, I know I know you would, but um I didn't know when we were going to do it.
I had some things going on. We wanted to get it done before this meeting and so we we agreed that I had some things going on in between that. Me and Charlie went over there and looked at it. I I talked to um Kevin Olsen about it also.
Um and so and I've been Phil, I've put so much time in this already looking at every way. The only reason I went and looked at it one more time because I wanted to make sure that what I'm saying is true. And it would be very expensive
to go any other way and get those people back to that piece of property. Very, very expensive. And so I mean uh yeah, so we we you know you you're you could go look at it anytime you want, you know. I mean it's out there.
Everything is there. Um you and I don't really agree on this particular thing and so um I don't know and I didn't want to spend a lot more time on tell you the truth. I I went over it one more time and
yeah and I don't I don't see it. So that's not a township road to the east side. So that's all you'd have to get easements all the way from 144 back and then easement through and build a road and it would just it's I don't I don't
see any way that you could afford to do that. Okay. >> So, Madam Chair, the reason I bring that up is just so that it does not go off anybody's radar and to let the board know that um you know, it is still active and and out there.
Um, I do have an initial meeting uh scheduled with a representative from MState tomorrow afternoon to start uh having conversations about what the process is is uh with regards to the MState building and what they um where
they are with their planning and what the again what the actual process is. So that will I was able to get it. It took a bit of uh doing but um I do have a meeting scheduled tomorrow. We had safety committee and I know this
was referenced a little bit um uh with regards to uh AED machines and and we do have a trainer through human services that will be able to provide the uh AED training and the CPR training in the county. Um
in the future there will be um there'll be a policy coming before to have some discussion about the availability of Narcan and it's pretty common to have uh Narcan placed where you have AED machines. Now that isn't necessarily the
only place you have to have it but so that it's available if somebody is in need of or is having some type of an overdose they have access to it. So, um I would expect that that'll be coming before the board uh in the in the near
future. >> Madam Chair, >> Carrie, >> to have Narcan at the the AED site. >> Mhm. >> That that's a that's a thing now. >> Yes.
I mean, so you're saying we've got I mean, you're potentially saying that employees >> could be >> it could be more than just recreational drugs. It could be pain medication you take one too many of. So it it doesn't necessarily mean
>> when you get prescribed any opioid now, they give you Narcan. >> I mean, they they prescribe you a narc or give you a Narcan with it. >> Even if you don't I mean, it's like what Narcan? What's this? You don't even I mean first time I was it was my father-in-law was had back surgery and
they gave him arcan like what the heck you narcan for? Well if you overdose is what you do. >> Yeah. And so it's just a lifesaving thing and that's next to the AED because >> it's a mistaving thing and I'm sorry >> I was thinking it was that big needle that the old days had to drag it in but
it's just a mist in your nose. >> No it is not that >> and it's not it doesn't hurt. I mean, there's no >> you can't overdose on it and it you can't overdose on it. It's all it does is save lives. That's all it does. And who knows? I don't I don't know if we're we're thinking our employees, but it
maybe some in here getting services or something. >> The concern that we have is if you have it, you have to monitor it, make sure it's there, and you have to make sure it's within dates, you know, not expired. Yeah. >> So having having it there's a there's
additional liability ensuring that it's available and it's >> we did talk about that in safety committee and you know with the good Samaritan laws etc it's available but again that doesn't say that the county can't have additional locations you know
such as I think the screeners sheriff's department there are other places but just so there's some access um and that would be maintain our AED machines would be are going to be and are as are being maintained by our maintenance department. So, it'll just
go along with that. And yeah. >> So, do we have to worry about theft of these things? >> No, they're given away everywhere. >> You can get those for free. >> They can't get you high. >> If I think some people think that they're >> No, they're available. >> So, people don't they are everybody can
have them and families take them home if they have kids that are have it could just save a life as in and they do even work. they said at the meeting even after they're expired, they're just not as effective and and our we're going to keep an eye on them to make sure they're
not. So, um, >> all right. Okay, moving on. Um, so internally, um, we and I have referenced this before, um, getting into compliance with the judicial security that we're required to do to hide, um, home
addresses for judges. And so I I believe we are at the very kind of final steps of that. Um we had met um and so I just uh appreciate the input from the departments that have been affected by this. We wanted to make sure that um and
uh Tony was able to build out on our system so that it can be tracked. So we know that um the departments that have to actually hide information um so it's not available to the public, they've done their part and that there's a tracking mechanism in place. So that
is uh at the very tail end >> and and we talked about Mary too. She's got to if there's delinquent taxes on a piece that's not supposed to be listed, how do you how do we >> how do we put that out there? >> So
>> we didn't think of that. I think Judy Judy's the troublemaker that brought that up. >> Yeah, her mind thinks outside the and that's good. Good. >> So, the legislative conference is at the beginning of March. I think all of you
have registered I think if I recall and so my hope would be to put together a legislative priority list for all of us so we are all on the same page and have the information and and Richard you're going to be the speaker. >> Okay. I'm sure I'll get us far.
>> We will your three pieces >> probably AMC will probably have everything lined up for us to attend uh >> with our legislators. So >> yeah, they'll have it lined up, but in case there's anything specific to um us, us meaning Becker County specifically
>> after tomorrow M state, I mean depending on how that meeting goes, that'd be important to just us. >> Correct. So yeah, we do have our overarching priorities as you know county and we belong to EMC but if there's anything in addition that we want to make sure that we you know
having the opportunity that we have that information or if we have a one page bullet I I think we've heard from um uh Joy and Coop that you know it is helpful sometimes to have a very at the time a very quick >> info sheet
>> yes information sheet with bullet points just very straight to the point so they have something in And >> we we do have some of those and we should have them because the next meeting is when we'll be departing after our next meeting. So, we should have that in hand by next meeting. Tanya has something for elections too that would
be appropriate. It's a small thing, but >> yes, >> I think I think we'll have that. Car's pulling all this together for one page. >> That's Yep. >> Yep. But if you do have things that you would like, please feel free to let me know that and I'll make sure that >> I'll send you the email that I got from
Dave Graham that human services had mentioned um something that they wanted us to bring up. >> Yes, I I do remember them. Yep. >> Um this has been referenced already. Um but work has been done and there's a policy written on the email retention. I did get some input from department heads
uh the last department head meeting. Um, again, it's it's a difficult task uh with a county that's never had a any kind of retention policy and they're used to, you know, saving anything and everything. Um, so we will be and I'll
be working with uh probably mostly uh Judy um with regards to this. We've tal what we've talked about is kind of starting um in a in a step process probably you know giving warning that um okay summer start going through things
um and then probably not fully probably rolling this out until the beginning of 2027. We'll take 26 to kind of do it in increments. >> And then having people again, there are some people that have, you know, thousands and thousands of emails that they're going to want to go through
>> and uh not use it like it's been used and space-wise and all those other things. Uh with the idea then um come 2027 then you start rolling backwards per perhaps you uh from the oldest and then rolling it up. Will this also
include Teams chats? >> I don't Did we talk about Teams chats? >> Yeah, it might be might be something >> to include in the retention. Yeah, that's a good idea. I was going to say I don't remember us talking about >> You mean the teams meetings, the Zoom meetings that are public?
>> Nope. Chat like you >> like when you're chatting. I'm going to chat Judy because I want her to do something. >> Oh. Oh. >> So that chat will will stay there >> as of right now forever. Yeah. >> So, I think we
probably should and that I that I think should be significantly less than emails. >> I would I would think so. >> You know, which again is going to be a change for employees that if I'm communicating with somebody in chat that it might not be there next week. So,
make sure that we're documenting that somewhere else. But, >> yeah. So, more work to come, but it is uh it is moving forward. Um, also during the department head meeting, um, we did have representatives from the sheriff's department. They came in and spoke to
the department heads briefly with regards to Alice training. What that is is active shooter training. There hasn't been anything done. Um, and I hate to even think that we need to do that. But obviously, we have to have that on our radar with everything that's kind of
>> just happened in general. Um, so there are I can't remember if it's three or four individuals in the sheriff's department that are being trained, getting trained. Um, so in the future we'll be um looking at training and different so they'll be looking at um
rolling that out within the county. I don't know a timeline on that, but it was uh I think well received by the departments and I think they understand the the the need for having to look at that. Um, last on my report, I was asked
end of March I'll be speaking at the economic summit um that's hosted here locally. Um, so I will I will do that again. I was hoping I did a terrible job last time I wouldn't be asked, but I guess I'm going back to that. So,
um, Becker Bay, we've already referenced that a little bit. We did we have one right on top of that. So, that is coming up. So will be our Peggy. Peggy and uh is it Nikki? Oh Nikki. >> If someone had access to like Super Bowl
tickets, if they had some ins with NFL, could they put those on there? >> They could. >> Okay. Next. >> Could was the key word. >> So Becker Bay, our uh annual Becker Bay auction, we usually do quite well on this. It gets fairly competitive and I
have known people from out of state that have been bidding while they're sitting at the airport. I won't mention any names, >> but we won. >> So, it's it's a it's a fun endeavor with the money um donations going to the local food pantry.
Um I the next agenda item is we did have some discussion I don't recall probably in more than one committee um with um hoping that in the very near future we'll be looking at doing negotiations with our uh union contracts. those
expire at the end of the year and I know uh Tiara and myself when we've had opportunities with business agents kind of putting out the plug there that we you know would like to start sooner than later so we can budget appropriately uh for whatever that's going to look like.
Um which then prompted the next conversation about uh we historically have had two commissioners on that negotiation team. it has just kind of fallen with the um with the chair and vice chair but then as we had some
further discussion I think it must been during our work session um so I was asked to bring it uh as an agenda item here um I don't think we ever um came to any consensus um so I am bringing it up here for discussion >> which basically which one of you two
wants to be on >> yeah that it went to chair and vice chair just because that is what who were the >> historically it has it has not historically been chair and vice. >> Oh, it hasn't been historic. >> It just that year it was the chair and vice chair. >> Oh, okay. I was thinking it was okay. So, I missed >> to be that year. >> Got it.
>> But did either one of you decide what you want to do? >> Well, so >> Erica is not on it. >> So, it's Dave and >> Richard, you didn't want Did you want >> Well, I don't want to, but we'll see what you guys decide. I'm not saying I won't do it. Um
>> I I don't if you I would do it or if you want to do it, that's up. I think for you Richard it was the like there it's a lot of it is a lot of time and >> if you haven't done it I will say it can potentially be a lot of hours it can be a lot of hours um so just keeping that
on there when we do meet usually we schedule um what we have done in the past is half days at a time sometimes we have one or do full days half day and half day um and then as as it depending on how the whole process progresses
there have been times where we're scheduled full days at a time and into the evening. So, I just want that on >> sometimes when it's 10 minutes >> that that Well, I say I should have said that first. >> So, we have Dave. Do we want to um draw
straws name out of a hat or anybody want to >> in our work session? We came back to Barry or I >> with Dave and I >> I defer to Barry. I mean, you you can decide if you >> Well, I will do it if
>> So, I'll make a motion to appoint Commissioner Nelson to the negotiating committee. >> And yourself? >> And I'm already on it and myself. >> Oh, okay. >> Do Do we have a second to for Commissioner Meyer and Commissioner
Nelson on the negotiating committee? >> I'll second that, >> Madam Chair. And then if we are not available, any other commissioners? Yes. Is that is that acceptable? If if we can't make a meeting that any other commissioner can sit in for >> Yep. >> for us. >> Absolutely. >> If that's motion making.
>> Okay. We have a motion to second. Any further discussion? >> All those in favor of Commissioner Nelson and Meyer signify by saying I. >> I. >> Opposed. >> I. >> Motion carries. >> Thank you. As we uh start uh union start
reaching out, I will um I have been kind of uh on the forefront of getting things scheduled. Well, um we'll see. Again, we're hoping to start sooner than later. Um the next item on the agenda is the fleet policy, uh county car usage. Um
this came about at the request of the board um to add in some um discretionary language. If there's a need that uh warrants a take-home of a fleet vehicle, um it would be probably minimal. um if
there's a training or if it makes sense that the um individual is is perhaps leaving very early in the morning or the location training etc. uh work um is closer to their residence versus coming
back into Detroit Lakes. And so we did talk about this at uh courthouse and um this is the policy before you that I would ask for a motion for >> Madam Chair make a motion to approve the Becker County fleet policy use. >> All right. I have a motion. Do I have a
second? >> Second. >> All right. Any further discussion? All those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. I. >> Opposed? Motion carries. >> The last item is um this is just for your information. There's again this is
regarding the the blight properties that we've talked about uh several times and um the policy I'm calling it a policy but it's probably policy maybe isn't the right word. I'm not necessarily asking for approval. This is just really a
workflow and a way to capture how we address these um uh properties that come to the attention of the committee that has formed. And then there was also a checklist and we've talked about recordkeeping. Um it serves a few
purposes. Obviously um you can't necessarily have a blanket policy of how you're going to deal with every situation, but at least you can have some parameters and guidelines of how to begin conversations and then track conversations about what's been tried,
what hasn't worked, what has worked. I'll go with what has worked. And then it's also documentation that if you're trying to address some of these uh blighted properties informally, you have some documentation of things that have perhaps been uh facilitated or tried
through the committee level. And then if it needs to go to the next level um for the county attorney, then the documentation is there. So this is just really for um capturing the information that we've come up with uh during the the
committee. So is there any questions on this? >> I think I felt like it was fairly straightforward. >> So Madam Chair, where are we at then? Are we ready to move forward or so? >> We have started. Yeah. >> Okay. >> Mhm.
>> Okay. Um I on my report I did not I was going to ask the question before you move on to the next item. Sorry. That's okay. Um we had talked about in our last work session potentially if I recall another work session to again pick up our um capital budgeting to start
talking about uh money basically money and policy and bringing and formalizing some of those things. Are we thinking that we want to do that in March or are we not where I don't know that we actually just >> I don't remember what we decided. >> I can't remember either. That's why I'm
asking the question. >> I I thought we were looking at doing it quarterly. >> We talked about a couple different >> when necessary and then you suggested quarterly, but >> and I don't think we ever really decided is what I remember
>> or don't remember. Maybe I don't remember. I would just say when you're ready to move this move it forward or have questions I and I I mean put a few things I think that work session was really I think it was good uh a good work session I think and an informal
work session where we can >> get off topic and just chat I mean uh personal you know you get >> I tried to keep you on task >> no but you get to know >> Barry likes to talk >> you get to know people's >> personally rather than I thought it was helpful but I also felt like we had some
good conversation and I just don't want them to be put in a folder and and not discuss them. So that's why I'm asking the question to try to move them. >> I'd say when you're ready and could we do something in Mar Richard, you get busy in April, right? >> Before that, >> I can schedule something in March if
that's or April. Let's do April. >> You want to do April? >> Mhm. >> Okay. >> But I don't have a date that I could do it. >> Are we looking for a date right now? >> I can give some suggestions. Um, I know I know it t typically has worked for us to do it. Um,
>> April 14, >> give you an inter. >> I mean, >> we did it the day after our board meeting last month, didn't we? So, that would be the 8th. >> We do the >> Is it Wednesday? >> April 8th. >> Is that what we're looking
>> throwing it out there? >> Oh, I'm not here apparently. Peggy says >> here in the afternoon, you're here in the morning. >> Oh, I'm here in the morning. I guess >> human services. >> Human services is in the morning. Oh yeah, we have human services 9th. >> It's a Thursday. >> April 9th. I
>> I would have to do afternoon. >> I haven't gone all day. >> That would help. >> Yeah, you go go faster. >> We could do it on the off Tuesday. >> We just resched >> but we could just do it afterwards. >> You You have R
>> NRM >> NRM at 8:30. >> Take an hour and do it at 9:30. 9:30. >> So, start at 9:30 on >> and I'm sorry, what was the date, Barry? >> The 14th. >> 14th. >> The 14th. We have NRM at >> and we Steve, you might want to schedule
it. >> If we don't have much on the agenda, just 8:30 for an hour, but we usually can get through it in an hour and a half. So, >> 10:00. >> Well, just do 9:30 if we have, you know, I don't know that there's much on the agenda coming up.
9:30 April 14th. >> I'm having Peggy send out a calendar invite as we're talking here for that. >> All right. I still don't get those on my calendar >> really, >> but I haven't fixed it. So, >> so um and anything else for me? If not,
um that's all I have. Okay. Um >> we will >> Can we take a break? >> Yes, we can take a break. We're going to take a five minute break. Let's do >> Brent's been sitt >> He's got one.
>> He's got a portable heater policy. >> Yeah. >> Well, good morning. >> Good morning, Brent. >> Morning. >> We have I have a facilities policy um that like you consider prohibiting personal eating. Um pretty
self-explanatory. I know in the past it's kind of been a gray area. um we kind of define that a little bit more in this policy. The obvious uh you know fire hazards, electrical hazards and all that is what I I'm concerned with. Uh along with they
always seem to plug them into power strips. >> Mhm. >> Which is in addition another hazard. So I don't we we vetted this through our safety committee um with approval through there. It's been through the courthouse too uh to bring it to here.
So, I thought we should put something down. All the facilities I've ever worked at, we've had something on the books that kind of define it. It doesn't necessarily eliminate all personal heaters. Um, we're defining some exceptions there, too. But, um, the ones
that are probably available, they don't heat well. They're just red. But, again, fire hazard, electrical hazard. Um, I guarantee our insurance carrier would like to see something like this. Madame Chair Brent, um is this an issue in all
of our buildings or >> Yes, ma'am. >> Um who's going to police this? >> It's defined in here. Um >> responsibility >> and then also we do have um some wording
in there about supervisors too. I will say congrats to Denise u from human services. she got ahead of this and she found a lot of personal ones that were over there as we were discussing this through the months. So I pulled a lot of them out of there and >> and we also talked at courthouse that if
there's an issue why they need a heater then we got to address that. >> Right. That's we >> we did talk about that at our last safety meeting that cuz there there are some people who are cold. Yep. >> And that's why they're using them. And so, you know, hopefully you can find
>> some way to it it is 2026. We should be able to keep people warm and so that we should be able to and I I realize this is an old building, but we should be able to come up with something there. >> Well, and and even in our newer buildings, yeah, >> there's some areas that just from
engineering purp didn't didn't pan out. So, we do have I mean something I do have since you're talking about capital improvements. I've had this on my list for improving certain areas. There's certain things we can do that aren't portable heaters. There's, you know, the heat panels we
can put up. We can put in exterior um units that are with our own system. Cost money. >> Capital improvement. >> Yeah. >> I've had that on there for a while. So, >> so Brent, people will still be allowed to use the heaters, but they have to be ulisted. there's criteria if they tip
over they have to shut off all those things. So, okay. >> I think in the past they maintenance uh facilities people would pass them up. Now, I was actually in here yesterday. We were doing some lighting projects and I was looking under some there's a lot of them um and some that are would be
electric or fire hazard um that we will speak with the people. >> Um again, we have a new highway some areas there and people sitting at their desks. It's cold air underneath. We're getting air blowing from the top. So, we we recognize that that there's probably
a need for it. Um, my ultimate goal is that we don't need them at all. >> Mhm. >> But again, we just got to work for it. And I think having a policy on the books that explains it a little bit better. >> All right. Candles are still all right. >> Candles.
>> Okay. >> All right. Do I have a motion? >> I'll make a motion to approve the portable heater policy. >> All right. I have a motion by Dave. Do I have a second? >> I'll second. >> All right. Second by Richard. Any further discussion? >> All those in favor signify by saying I.
>> I. >> Opposed. Motion carried. >> Thank you. >> I do I do recognize though the um significance of this. As a as a husband that has a wife that's cold all the time, this is significant. So, we have to
We will start with Judy. >> Good morning. >> Good morning. >> Morning, Judy. >> Good morning, Chairwoman Jeepson and commissioners. What I'm bringing forward today is the computer order for 2026.
It's uh for all the laptops and desktops and we're bringing it about a month early because uh there's a large um increase coming from almost all the vendors out there between we're kind of setting on 20% change because that's what our vendors told us. And uh what
we're looking at is uh some docking stations for the new for some of the new laptops and for for replacements. We're looking at about 20 desktops uh then four desktops that are a little bit more expensive for dispatch. they have more memory. Uh we have a uh 11 new
laptops and those are just the standard replacement laptops and we have one IT laptop that's a little bit more expensive and that's again additional memory. So the refresh for 2026 a total refresh is 50,485 and it is within budget.
>> What was it? I know I can't remember exactly. We were talking about something at the committee level about extending it to fiveyear cycle. You said something. Let's get this on the record. I said >> uh I said I said you were right. >> Oh, >> that I was wrong. Well, I said we should
do it for three years. I said no. You know, you were right. It's been working out great. >> Just couldn't get that. I had to keep that in the committee. Couldn't just keep >> So, we had to get it on record. Barry was right. >> Yes, we did. Yes, Barry was right. >> Do that, Judy. >> Hey, so we are at a fiveyear >> rotation computers.
>> I guess when you're late to a meeting, you have to make up for it somehow, right? Madam Chair, Judy, um could you tell me what a dollar amount of our it just in computers things like this right here that the county has? Like what is our inventory? Obviously,
it's depreciated, but what what like are we talking $5 million worth of this is 20%? >> No, I would say no. >> This is 20% of your >> This is about 20%. So, if you multiply that Well, it's a couple hundred,000. Yeah, I'd say that's and then this is
for for our our own personal devices. Uh you know the one I the one everybody uses at their desk. >> Yes, it would include those >> laptop. I'd say about that and then uh we have servers which is another 100,000. Then we have all the software which is uh it's all done but as a
software service but I I can certainly create that spreadsheet. I I have all >> I mean we have 330 340 employees. Does every employee have >> the sheriff's department? Some people have two because they have one in their their squad and one at their desk. So,
it's a little different than that. Um, but it's it's about one for one. >> So, when you take that old one out and refurbish or whatever, do do you or your staff actually put that in or is that done? >> No, we we put them in. We have a we have a deployment tool that we use and uh it
is run by by one of our one of our IT analysts and uh then uh we bring them we we sometimes ask them to pick them up if it's a laptop if not we normally bring them to their we bring the desktop there and uh put them in. So
>> okay. >> All right. >> I'll make a motion to approve the Okay. Easy. >> All right. I have a motion. I have a second. Any further discussion? All those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> I. >> Opposed. Motion carries. >> Thank you very much. >> Thank you, Judy. >> Thanks, Judy.
>> Next time, forget when Barry's right. >> Just forget about it. It was awesome. >> No need to bring it up again. >> She said it in courthouse, too. >> 100% right. >> She said 100% right. Yeah. >> Okay. Next. Veteran services.
I don't know if you want these. This is just >> Thank you. >> I'll give you one later. You >> Anthony, veteran service officer. uh we have an opportunity for an intern uh
that had asked to serve in our office. It wasn't something I was looking for or trying to find it. Uh, I got a call from the yellow ribbon coordinator out of state and he had asked if I would like
like an intern uh so she can finish her degree and uh it's at no cost to county. Um it's something that they have a grant for that they can pay up to 480 hours of
work for the intern. So the intern will be paid by the Morgan state and that includes work comp and all the benefits that go along with that. So there when we talk about it, it's um I'm looking at I like I would like to support the internship opportunity within our
veteran service office. It offers a meaningful hands-on experience and assisting veterans and their families while enhancing the services we provide in our community. The intent is working through the Minnesota State University under the yellow ribbon advanced uh
program. Um and we talked a little bit about the they do provide up to 480 hours. It's a grant. Um and the intern would do daily operations. Uh it also invests in developing our future professionals dedicated to uh the
veteran advocacy and also gain valuable insight in our office workforce demands. This opportunity also allows the veteran service office to um consider a third person down the road like you know if we
if we feel the need this gives us an opportunity to see if a third person would be beneficial in our office and assisting veterans and the community. Um, so I I just think it reflects the commitment to our continuous improvement and uh and it just helps the veterans
receive uh timely high quality support. Um, and then so what I provided for you was a non-disclosure agreement on the second page and that's just uh through the veterans office because they would be dealing with HIPPA medical records,
personal information, social security number and so they didn't have to sign any disclosure that they discuss any information. Um, and then I worked it out with Terry and Judy. there is a computer that they would uh be eligible
to use. They're able to use uh to utilize some of our programs in working with the veterans and assisting scheduling appointments uh listening in on the interviews. And then there is a Becker County intern policy that was
provided by Denise what they use over at human services. And so we just kind of copied that instead of creating a wheel. This is provided by Carrie. >> That's a countywide policy. >> It's a countywide policy. Yeah. >> Yes, it is. And so, like I said, it's no
cost to Also in that packet is actual agreement from the Morehead State University of of what she can and can't do. So, um hopefully this is something that uh you guys would consider allowing. Like I
said, it's no cost to us. I think it'd be a great benefit to to bring in an intern and uh help somebody, you know, finish their degree and in response, you know, it could help us and the veterans. >> Madam Chair, Anthony, is this a one-year
thing? Uh is it uh will it be recurring or could it be recurring or >> No. Um so the intern uh they would like to her to get as many hours in. She graduates in May. Um, but then the grant is to pay up to 480 hours. So I I'm
guessing she could stay maybe to July or August. That would be about it. It is not a long-term thing. It's just a a 480 hour grant. They would like us to utilize this 480 hours and then she is done with
that process. And then her goal is to work with the veteran service office in a secretary of state or as a you know an assistant VSO somewhere in the state or county or wherever is not a guarantee for employment by us at all. It is an
opportunity for her to succeed her degree requirements. She is a widow of a veteran who passed away in 2020. Um, and she she's familiar with the veteran program and how it helped her husband through the process
before he died and she wants to continue helping other veterans. >> Um, is this so I took my internship at Becker County so I'm a little familiar with internships and also know that taking on an intern can also mean
additional work for um those in the office. So, because it is it is a a learning experience, I'm 100% supportive of it. I just wanted to make sure that that um that it could it could be
additional work. >> Absolutely. Yes. >> Because it is teaching. >> Yes. And myself and my assistant, we've discussed it in length that it could be a little extra work on our behalf, >> but we feel I just we just feel it's like a good
opportunity uh to at least try one and see how >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Madam Chair, I think I think we discussed this too at Courthouse and Anthony was well aware of that if you get a good internship, it will be beneficial, greatly beneficial and um
>> you can give them projects they can they take off on their own. I'm sure in your case it wasn't as good experience, but um >> I actually think I did pretty darn good. Thank you. >> They hired me. Hopefully >> he's he's got YouTube. Hopefully this will be a great opportunity, but I I think it also I
think it shows especially in veteran services we want what's best and and get education for those that are going to be helping veterans too. I I and it's a great uh service that you're providing and and thank you for doing this for >> um hopefully hopefully it works a great
process and Tony said there's they have some projects that could be tasked with and uh hopefully we can get some of those documents done. And if it and if it is a good experience, you know, it is I know at human services they, you know, typically have ones. I don't know if they still do. We used
to have one every semester, but um just something for you to to consider. >> That is something that we discussed as possibly a shared intern >> if we run out of things to do >> that she could meander over to human services side of the house. Yep. because
that's lines up with her degree, you know, and she's we she came in last Friday, the director of the morning state and her came in met Friday and she would be willing to go to the human services if we have lack of
>> at times. >> Okay. >> I'll I'll make a motion to approve the intern placement in the veteran services office. >> All right. Do we have a motion? Do we have a second? >> Second. >> All right. Any further discussion? All those in fa favor signify by saying I.
>> I. >> Opposed. >> Motion carried. >> Thank you. >> Thank. >> Hi Steve. >> Did you figure out what I said? >> I did. >> I got it. >> Okay.
>> Morning. Steve. Uh today we're here to ask for permission to dispose of a to sell off a house located on tax for the property that it's a cabin that was partially
constructed but was never finished and uh advertise that and see if we can sell it. Uh if we're successful in getting a bid for it, >> Steve, is your mic on >> there? Sorry about that. >> Uh if we're successful in in getting
bids where we can get it moved off there, then the county would be responsible for getting rid of the concrete basement and maybe the sewer. >> It says in here still all buildings materials. Does that include the the concrete walls? I mean, I I think we
>> the intent was to >> because we felt that depending upon we I mean we can do that ourselves the concrete walls and might get us a more favorable >> that's the that's the basement foundation I mean that doesn't have concrete it's >> got the wood walls right
>> basement it's got concrete in there concrete walls in the basement >> so we're not asking them to remove the concrete walls but I think >> you just said that yeah >> it's not clear in here is what I'm saying >> oh okay all right >> it says all debris >> all bumos and debris
So >> excluding the concrete, >> we'll clarify that with each >> because if >> Yeah, >> you know, it would take more equipment if I mean it would take a a different type of equipment rather than just So I mean, we have the equipment and and basically you're just going to
>> probably knock them in and fill it. >> Mhm. >> So we can >> That's correct. >> But this is in no way saying and we can reject all bids. I'm assuming that's in here. Yes.
>> Yep. >> I mean, just say just make sure that the county county commission board may reject any and all bids. >> Yep. >> If so, our final decision doesn't have
to be now, but if I mean, if we get high bids 100 bucks, probably not take it. I don't know. That's we'll have to review it and see. Mhm. >> Um with those with those I will make motion to moving forward and
>> with the sale of the c sale and removal of the cabin. >> I'll second it. >> All right. I have a motion and a second. Any further discussion? All those in favor signify by saying I. >> Opposed. >> Motion carried. >> Thank you. >> Thanks, Steve. >> Thanks, Steve.
All right, we'll move on to Kyle with a request for an extension. >> Good morning. >> Morning. >> Morning. >> Uh Mr. Eric Zern here. Uh requesting an extension for permit 694215 uh which was for a feed lot in Spring
Creek Township. Um, Commissioner Nelson, I did go look right after you just mentioned that question. There's no limitation on extension requests, per se. However, the ordinance does say a request for one-year extension. Um, but he's able to ask for
as many of those as he would like, and you're able to guarant cuz did we order we gave it two-year last time, didn't we? >> We did. And I'm guessing we maybe we probably assumed we could do that. Okay. because they are good for two years once implemented. But
>> okay, >> I just went and reread this and >> Madam Chair, I'll make a motion to approve the extension for one year. >> I'll I'll second. >> All right, I have a motion to second. Any further discussion? >> All those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> Opposed. >> Motion carried.
>> Second. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> That was easy. >> That was easy. >> That was easy. >> Way easier than the first time. >> Let's not go there, right? >> Oh, got that one. >> Yeah, man. All right, >> then we just have a commission
appointment discussion. >> Um, so we brought this to courthouse in the zoning ordinance right now under the planning commission requirements. Onethird of the members are supposed to be pointed appointed um annually. So, we
discussed, you know, how we could um accomplish that if we were going to if have some of you appoint members for two years, three years or four years. Um I went and looked at the statute and there's no provision in there requiring that 1/3 annually um provision and it's
not in the board of adjustments. So, I my request would be to eliminate that one-third deal. Um >> is it in our zoning? >> It's in our It's in our zoning ordinance, but it's it's not a statute requirement. All the statute says is that your ordinance shall establish
basically um when and how people are appointed and and whatnot. Basically, what the all the statute says is up to 11 members and that's really it in terms of the makeup of the board itself. There's a couple other provisions about people making
money off of land and things of that nature, but it's just something I think should probably just go away. Um, and then that wouldn't >> we would have to amend our ordinance and >> yes, >> we'd have to to state how we're going to do it, >> right? >> Whether however we do. But one of the one of the big in my opinion look
reviewing these names and the and the terms. They're scattered for the months. I mean, it was it's terrible. How would you track that? So, I think that's the biggest thing. Get them all on a calendar year and serve that calendar year, right? >> Because >> I mean, there was some in one in July,
you know, March, April. It's like, geez, we got to they just got to be the same. So you can >> just the board of adjustments, >> both. >> So in what was probably happening there is someone was resigning or moved out of district, whatever, and they >> instead of fulfilling the ter stating
fulfilling the term, you gave them a pointed. So >> So we can clean that up. I can bring back a resolution and and have them all terminate >> end of December, >> December 31st. Yes. >> Or December 30th, depending upon the year. >> Right.
He said that joke brought that joke up before at the same time. Don't we want stage? >> You want them staggered on a yearly. You don't want them all at the same year, but you want them all to come due at the end of the year, whichever year that is, you know, if it's in at the end of 26,
27, 28. So they staggered yearly, but you want them all to come at the same. >> Yeah. This is February 26, March 27, January 26, July 27, January 27, September, >> July. Yeah. So there's we just want them all. So they're easier to track. So you
know, different. >> So Kyle, every year knows. All right. December we got to renew or get appoint all the members for this term, this next one. So, and then we just also discussed um moving forward, we'll publish every
position whether it's expiring or somebody has resigned or what have you. We'll just put it on the website. Also, obviously give you a heads up each one of you whoever has a vacancy. But, so right now those ones are published as of last Friday. So, um
>> which ones? >> There's quite a few. There's a bunch of the ones that are expiring in February and January, right? >> There's a bunch of them. >> Madam Chair, Kyle, when when is the time
would you do this like at like Barry said, in December, like when things are slow, >> we want them appointed in December. You'd advertise it maybe in November, end of November. So the 30-day notice. >> So the board of adjustments and the planning on it would they'd all be done at the same time of year, right?
>> Yeah. Okay. But before sometimes we were publishing, sometimes the commissioner was just running into somebody in the grocery store getting the yay or nay and appointing them. >> We just talked about at courthouse that we'll just publish every one of them so people have a fair chance to apply. Um
>> and you may take the incumbent and you may not. >> Right. >> Okay. >> And just one other thing I never thought about. Um you know we I think previously it was always three-year terms. You can go up to four years, but not nothing says you can't go to one either. Um, let's say you you want to try out a
member and you don't want to appoint them for four years. You you could do one year and just something to think about. >> What's your recommendation? >> I mean, the longer the terms, the longer the terms is better for us because we
not doing it, but I'm >> Well, it's a learning curve, right? >> Very much. So, >> so I I would prefer having a longer term. If we're if we're going to have a circumstance where there would be a a shorter term, I think we need to
define why we would have a shorter term in our ordinance. >> I think as we as we move forward, I think there might be some shorter term. You don't want a big group coming due one year. So, I mean, I think we want to stagger them for three-year terms. My my opinion, we should try to shoot for a
three-year term. >> Mhm. But there might be some cases where >> you know we want to be about we want a fairly balanced >> annually coming up. >> So Kyle, just for clarity, if someone resigns midterm or moves out of district
or whatever, is that appointed then or would we have to run to fill that? >> No, it' be the same as what we're doing. >> It's all appointed now. >> They're all appointed. >> Yep. You just appoint. We'd advertise it at that point. >> But would it would be just for the to finishing up that person's turn, then they could rent. Okay. Yep. Just do the
remainder. >> Okay. >> So, if it's if that's all acceptable, I'll bring something. I'll have to amend that ordinance that takes the public hearing. Um but if you just want to consider appointments for um I sent you a list, I'll send it again
right now. So, you have it updated if you want to >> reach out to your current people or >> And one thing that we that I noticed I I don't like board of adjustments and planning and zoning same members. I mean there's a over there is one overlap that serves on planning and zoning from board
adjustments but but I see there's two members then are on both and that in my opinion um I prefer that I prefer not having >> I don't have a problem with that. It's hard to find people sometimes do this
>> and it's always at night >> and this this of all the committees I would say is probably the >> Yeah. Man, if I can find somebody that'll do both and they're qualified, I don't know why we wouldn't. I don't really I don't see a conflict, but I I don't So, I'm not maybe seeing it the
way you are, but >> it's it's just like I said, it's just my opinion. I >> Mhm. >> Okay. Any further discussion? >> No. So, we'll just have at your first March meeting the anticipation that a lot of these will be filled.
>> Okay. The only other discussion that we had earlier this year was eliminate planning and zoning and use the county board as as a planning zoning board have that meeting Tuesday night that one night. >> It's one basically for two of us it's nothing more.
>> Mhm. >> Two of you and the rest of us it's one meeting and one viewing more. >> Mhm. >> Well, but it's also there's a lot of leg work there and I I don't know. We have pretty good people on there. I I don't have a problem with them doing it. Um >> I don't have a problem. It's a
recommendation board and and in the difficult in the difficult ones we have to get involved that involved anyway. >> I I think when we when we for planning and zoning we go to planning and zoning then we come it comes to us and we review it and then we micromanage it. It
seems like we're doing it twice. Um I I I've seen that. Um, >> at the end of the day, >> we either trust them at >> the end of the day, we're the elected official, >> at the end of the day, we are the ones that have to make that decision and >> we do, but we we also have some very qualifi I'm looking at the people that
are on there. We have very qualified people >> who give up their time and do it and and they do a good job of it. They they go to the sites and look at them and I appreciate having them do this job myself. um makes it a lot easier for me
to make that decision. So >> maybe when we get to the point where we can't get people to serve, maybe then it would be a time to >> I've always supported the county board do it. I mean, I >> I'm I'm in the and I I don't have a
problem not continuing as we are. But the end of the day, I take the responsibility. It's my it's my decision at the end of the day. I can listen to that recommendation or I cannot. I mean with my own knowledge and >> I agree with that. >> Then why don't you go and do it yourself
beforehand? That's and I I see >> on the difficult ones I do a lot of labor >> and I do too. >> And the difficult ones I go >> So I mean it's >> well the easy ones aren't an issue. >> No, they're not. >> Right. So I mean there's >> I mean you're making your point. I mean >> I'm okay. Any further discussion?
>> I did want to bring up just one more thing. So I did start to go out you know going back to easy ones and hard ones. You know, there we hear a lot of opposition upfront, but I started that process of cup inspections and I got to
say people are on their agame and a lot of those things that are brought up >> never come to fruition. I mean, there's a junkyard in your district north of Osage. >> No, it looks >> the new one. >> It's the nicest business we have in the >> in the county. And it looks better
>> junkyard then. >> Well, a salvage yard. Yeah. It looks better than Menard's. Um, and I it does it or I shouldn't pick on Menards itself, but I mean it is a it just as well manicured. It's Have you seen that the one I'm talking about?
>> I know I know which one you're talking about, but I had not seen it. >> Yeah, I remember when we >> So, Kyle, your point with that. I'm just well just to follow up because I mean it was something that you a lot of discussion in the past few months about doing those inspections but then also I mean a lot of these ones that we had so
many so much opposition to >> it's just non-existent. I mean how the businesses ran >> um >> I mean again I went out to that campground on Toad Lake. Um that's >> what's what's the one up north that we
had a lot of controversy on that big big one. at Jolly. >> Yeah. Next next to Jolly Elbow >> Black Bear. That one. Black Bear Hollow. I have been in that one too. That is very welldeveloped. >> I think I think the
definition of very well-developed and violations are can be the same. I mean, there can be violations and it look wonderful if it's not within the what's allowed to. I mean, I'm I have no idea that they I'm not speaking of any case that I I'm aware of, but just because it
looks good doesn't mean it's within this the rules that it >> No. And when I mean developed, very welldeveloped, I mean it's screened well. Um, you know, it's it's all planted and grass seed. There's no erosion. I mean, it's just it's >> Yeah. There there's some conditions on on some of these that are going to be
almost impossible for us to to to make sure that there's not a violation. almost impossible because there I mean an example would be um you can't have wakes surf boats in in docking in in in I think that was one of I mean it was
more for pontoon fishing. So and those are tough but um I think if they're showing good good management in everything else I I would assume that would carry over into that that they wouldn't you can't stop someone from pulling up but you have say you know this isn't this isn't allowed
we we protect this area. So, um, but thank you for doing that cuz I mean when when people know that we are doing checks, I think the compliance will be, you know, better. I mean, if I think like, uh, speeding is one of those. If you if there were no cops on the roads, we'd all be speeding more. I mean, it's
it's it's the one one law enforcement that that makes you follow the laws is I don't want to >> I think to your to your point though, Kyle, so often when these come in and they're controversial, it's all the like extreme cases of everybody thinks that this is what it's going to be and then
when it comes it's really >> completely different, >> not as bad. Yeah. And I and I think we see that often. So, but I think what we put the conditions on it goodness >> hopefully it appeases their you know their worries some that this won't be as bad as we were thinking it might be
>> and I think if some of those controversial controversial cases if they weren't following it you'd be hearing about it. >> Yeah. And you really don't. I mean, for instance, like that that Toad Lake one. I mean, there I when I went by there, there's like two of those little small L fences that need to be fixed or whatever, but it
>> the place was immaculate. And I would tell you, if you ever go to the landfill, >> uh, directly across the street is that hog pit that, um, we granted a conditional use permit to Kevin Sha for. Pull in there and look at that. It's unbelievable. I don't think you can
authorize us to pull in a business. But >> well, >> just just you're just saying look at it. Yeah. >> The conditional use permit. I think you probably have the authority just as anybody to go look at. It's >> Yeah. I don't I think it'll shed a lot of light on what you hear and, you know,
help your decisions in the future. I mean, not that there isn't one or two out there. You know, Commissioner Hansen has one in his district that has more cars than allowed, but from what we're seeing, the preliminary inspections we did, people are doing a very good job. So, >> you know, another another thing that
condition use some of these requirements are I mean, I think we're all familiar with the business in my in my area that has parking issues being it changed usage. I mean it was an office building. Now it's a you know service industry that has
>> you know can have 30 cars at the business. Well it wasn't built for that. So that was a that that got moved into commercial. So was zone commercial so they can trans change business whatever when you know whenever conditional use permits would re would restrict that and we could alleviate that too if we wanted
to go commercial but we'd have to have some parking requirement. you know, we'd have to have in ordinance if you have a business, you have to have this many parking space per square foot or, you know, something like that. >> But um anyway, I I thank you for uh
following that up and >> yeah, Madam Chair, Kell, I'd say the same thing. Thanks for bringing those that to our attention. Seems like we always hear about the the bad news. I mean, that's I mean, just little tidbits like that is >> Yep. They look good. >> Yeah. So, >> all right. Meeting adjourn.
>> Pat Tuesday. Go get some shrimp oil. >> Oh man, when you're not supposed to boil,