call the um Cook County Board of Commissioners regular meeting to order on this day um April 28th at 8:30 a.m. We begin our meeting with the pledge. Please rise. >> I pledge allegiance 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. >> Amen. Any adjustments to the agenda? None. I'll have a motion.
>> Madam chair, motion to support the agendas presented. >> Support. >> All in favor? >> I >> I >> opposed. Same sign. Motion passes. At this time, we do offer a public comment period and an opportunity for citizens
to appear before the board with anything they'd like to discuss. Uh, is there anyone who'd like to come forward? Seeing none, we'll move on to the uh Oh, has anyone on the board received any comments? Okay, moving on to the consent
agenda which we have the claims uh the minutes from the um April 14th meeting and then we have staff recognition and oath of office. So a motion to approve that. >> I'll make a motion to approve the
consent agenda. >> All in favor? >> Support. >> Support. Got a support. Who's supportive? >> Ann. >> Okay. All in favor? >> Okay. Sorry. So, somebody's taking our minutes, I take it. >> Yeah, Adrienne is at home. So am I. So,
>> okay. >> You're at home, too. >> She No. So am I. No, she's taking them from there. >> Okay. >> I'm also >> I have a motion and a second. All in favor? >> I. >> Motion passes. >> I am.
>> So, this morning we have a couple recognitions. The first one, staff recognition, will be read by administrator Treble. All right. And if we could have Pat please come join us at the front here.
Sheriff Eli, we'd like to recognize you today for your years of service. Sheriff Pat Eliza's career reflects more than three decades of steady principled service to Cook County. Beginning his law enforcement journey in 1995 with the
Grand Marray Police Department and soon after joining the Cook County Sheriff's Office, he built his career from the ground up, serving as a deputy, a leader within the ranks, and ultimately as sheriff beginning in 2015. As sheriff, Pat led with a clear
commitment to professionalism, accountability, and respect for every individual. Under his leadership, the department modernized its practices with the implementation of bodywn cameras, expanded training, and strengthened its ability to serve the public. He also
understood that public safety in Cook County depends on strong partnerships. Pat worked closely with the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior, Chipua, and other regional partners to establish a collaborative marine unit, ensuring continued water safety after the closure of the Coast Guard station in Grand
Marray. That effort stands as a lasting example of his commitment to collaboration and problem solving across jurisdictions. That's just one example of the many different collaborations and partnerships that he has established. Throughout his career as a deputy, as
chief deputy, and as sheriff, Pat earned the respect of his colleagues, the trust of the community by emphasizing his teamwork and his service. He has supported his staff, strengthened relationships with partner agencies, and helped maintain the strong sense of
community policing that defines Cook County. And beyond the badge, many in the community know Pat for another side of his character, his love of music. Whether with a guitar in hand or sharing a song, he has brought people together in a different but equally meaningful
way, reminding us that public servants are also neighbors, friends, and part of the fabric of this community. Even in retirement from law enforcement, Pat will continue to serve through his work with Head Start in Grand Portage and through his own company, Sentinel, he
remains committed to strengthening and supporting this community he has long called home. After 31 years in law enforcement, and actually I think we're three months short of 31 years, if I'm not mistaken, but almost 31 years, um the sheriff leaves a legacy of
dedication, collaboration, and steady leadership. His impact will be felt not only within the sheriff's office but across the entire community that he has served and will continue to serve us but in different ways. So with that, we thank you for your leadership.
>> We'd like you to sing your response, please. >> Well, thank you. Thank you for that. That was that was fantastic. Um uh just just to just just to clarify, the 31 years was was 31 years in February was when I started with the Gram Police Department. >> Oh, okay.
>> It would have been 31 years with the county in in September. >> Yeah. A long time. >> Yes. A long time. Um if if I may, I'd like to to read something, please. Chairperson, commissioners, county administration, and members of the Cook County team. As I come before you at my
final board of commissioners meeting as sheriff, I want to take a few m moments to simply say thank you. Serving as the Cook County Sheriff has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Over the past 31 years in law enforcement, including the last 12 as your sheriff, I've had the privilege of working
alongside incredible people who care deeply about this county and the people who call it home. I want to thank the board of commissioners for your support, guidance, and willingness to work through difficult issues together. Public service is not always easy, and there have certainly been challenges
along the way, but I have always appreciated the respect and professionalism shown throughout my time serving in this role. I also want to take thank the county administration team, department heads, and staff across all county departments. No one accomplishes anything alone in county
government. The work we do depends on teamwork, communication, and a shared commitment to serving the public. I've always been proud of the relationships we built and the way we work together to support the residents of Cook County. To the men and women of the Cook County Sheriff's Office, dispatch, jail staff,
emergency management, and everyone who has worn the badge or supported this office, thank you. Your hard work, sacrifice, professionalism, and dedication have meant more to me than I can ever fully express. I have been fortunate to work with some truly outstanding people over the years.
I am also grateful to the citizens of Cook County for placing their trust in me. It has been a privilege to serve this community and I will always carry that responsibility with pride and gratitude. While this chapter is coming to an end, I leave knowing that Cook County is in good hands. I'm proud of what we have
accomplished together, proud of the relationships we have built, and proud to have spent my career in service to this county. Thank you all for your support, your trust, and your friendship over the years. It has truly been an honor. >> And Pat, we'll be back with one last
request later. >> We're not done yet. >> Okay. Um, uh, Ben, if I'd have you come up and sit at the seat there by the microphone, please. >> So, I have some opening remarks. Um, Ben, and then, um, we'll have a swearing
in. Today, we recognize a significant moment in transition and continuity in the Cook County Sheriff's Office. Ben Hellberg has been dedicated more than two decades to the service of this community through the sheriff's office. Beginning his career in 2004 as a
dispatcher and jailer, he has served in a wide range of roles including deputy sheriff, jail administrator, dispatch supervisor, and currently chief deputy. His work has included overseeing day-to-day operations at the sheriff's
office, supporting jail and dispatch functions, serving as the DARE uh officer in local schools, and working closely with local and regional law enforcement partners across northeastern Minnesota. In each of these roles, he's
demonstrated a steady commitment to the public safety, professional service, and community trust. So today, in accordance with the actions of the Cook County Board, Ben assumes the responsibility of interim sheriff until the elected
sheriff is sworn in in January 2027. So I'll ask him to come forward. Come forward. Get on camera. I can have you raise your right hand, please, and repeat after me. I, Ben
Halbert, >> I, Ben Hbert, >> do swear and affirm >> do swear and affirm >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> that I will support the Constitution of the United States >> and the Constitution of the State of Minnesota. >> and the Constitution of the State of
Minnesota. and that I will be diligent, faithful, and impartial >> that I will be diligent, faithful, and impartial >> in the performance of the duties >> in the performance of the duties >> of sheriff for the county of Cook >> of the Sheriff of County of Cook
>> in the state of Minnesota >> in the state of Minnesota. >> To the best of my judgment and ability to >> the best of my judgment and ability. >> And in accordance with the law >> and in accordance with the law. So congratulations, Sheriff Hellberg. You're now duly sworn as the interim
sheriff of Cook County. Your service record reflects a deep operational experience within this office. From dispatch and corrections to leadership as chief deputy, you have helped guide the daily operations of the sheriff's
office, supported your colleagues in the field and in the jail, and strengthened relationships across the region's law enforcement and community. This appointment recognizes not only your experience but also the stability and
continuity needed to serve the people of Cook County during this transition period. We thank you for stepping up into this responsibility and for your com uh continued commitment to public safety and the people of this county.
This appointment will remain in effect until elected sheriff assumes office in January 2027. On behalf of Cook County, we thank you for your leadership and service. So the next item on our agenda would be
to call um Patty Lias up with his request marine vessible. >> Thank you everybody. So, um, just to, uh, recap a little bit, um, we worked with Grand Portage to get
a couple of of boats to replace the the hole that the Coast Guard left for us on the north shore of Lake Superior. Um, four boats were procured. Grand Portage kept two of them. Um they gave us one and they gave Lake County one so we
could have the entire Northshore um ready to respond to uh whatever needs need needs in Lake Superior. Um in doing so, Grand Portage requested anou with with Cook County for not just the use of
the boat, but for returning the boat if we ever decide that we do not want the vessel any any longer. Um so County Attorney Peterson was kind enough to drop the agreement. Um, we looked it over. I think it's uh pretty self-explanatory and uh if you have any questions or or or what what whatever um
I will sit here and answer. >> Commissioner Wright, >> for the listening public, I know this one. What is anou? >> Memorandum of understanding. >> Okay. Thank you, >> Commissioner Gabble.
>> Yeah, thank you, Madam Chair. um this uh pursuit of uh replacing the co-star provision that was in place for the county that began at least with some um strong focus 2024
or 2023 would you say? >> I I would that's a good question but it it's been a while. I'd say 2023. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. And so, um, uh, it it appears that Grand Portage took the lead in in pursuing the funding and maybe the
avenue that they could pursue was such that it it made it more realistic to be able to acquire these funds to purchase these these four boats. And there's been discussion since that time, I'm sure, um, as we've looked to try to replace
the Coast Guard uh, provision. Uh, and so I apologize if if some of the questions that I have have been questions that have been brought before this board and the community so that we're aware of these. Um, and if if you'll indulge me on your your last day
before you take your flack jacket off the uh these are some questions that I would have um and especially looking at in at the um brand of understanding that any relationship and we've had relationship certainly uh in law
enforcement with the city and with other organizations and being clear under that understanding and what expectation as long as that's defined clearly in that memorandum of understanding it it prevents misunderstanding and and
surprises. Um I would ask initially if a memorandum of understanding has been established with Lake County and has come before their board and passed if you're aware of that or not. >> It has it. >> It has. Okay. And the language is
similar to the language being proposed today. >> Very very similar. Yes. >> Okay. And so one of my questions is that who will staff the vessel? >> Well, we have two um our our current jail administrator and one of our
deputies um have either finished or are just finishing up their captain's licenses to to uh to run the vessel. Um, obviously they can't do it by themselves, but we would have, you know, staff from the sheriff's office, staff from search and rescue depending on what
the the incident is that we're responding to on Lake Superior, but we have we will have two certified captains to run the vessel. >> Okay. And um so looking at a vessel this size and nature and patterned after coast guard vessels that uh minimum
requirement would would be two in in this regard. And depending upon the nature of uh the search and rescue mission potentially three and and again looking at what certification or licensing is required again relative to
this type of vehicle and you mentioned that uh training has been placed some of that training and and results of that the timeline until you get that certification can be put out you know a number of days. So um this is something
when I when I look at it if I say here's our plan >> here's here's the memorandum of understanding here's what we have looked at on this and so this is the plan that's put in place that we're in compliance and that you know we'll we'll
be able to meet the the requirements associated with this type of service this type of of vessel. The other question I have is um the monies that that came initially the 3 million those monies that Grand Portage had um
acquired those were applied for the purchase or was there a point of that given the price point of where there that half of that money is going towards maintenance or ongoing operations? Um the money was used for the purchase and
whatever was left over. We had we had we had initially assumed we could use that for staff wages, you know, if we wanted to try to get some some seasonal people to come up and and do that specifically during the summer. Uh it turned out that we cannot use that money for wages. Um it's to be used for equipment,
maintenance, things like that. Yes. >> Okay. And um so there is there is some funding that would be available that and um if looking at again that that type of vehicle what ex expectations are
relative to to maintenance that in the memorandum of understanding um unless I missed it um that isn't necessarily detailed as who will take the financial responsibility of that this uh this
partnership between Grand portage and Lake County and Cook County is a a team approach to replacement of services that we no longer have. But the financial component of it is is one what I'm wanting to know and I don't necessarily
see that spelled out clearly in the memorandum. Well, I think um as far as you know like the the operations of of the vessel um you know for fuel um oil equipment things like that I think the sheriff's office would be responsible for for
supplying that. I mean we we have we have different grants that we can use for that specific purpose. We have the the state of Minnesota boat and water grant can be used for for anything in in in that area. um
you know when you when if you're talking about like a major breakdown like like a motor or or a hole in in the in the hull or something like that. Um yeah, I don't know to be honest. >> Okay. And the other question I'd have that's um
in line with that is are you aware of any warranty that has been provided in making that purchase with those warranties being negotiated based upon individual purchase? I'm just wondering if we have anything in that regard. >> I I recall I recall a warranty and I
think it's just a standard warranty for any any vessel that that the company that made the boat and they're called Lake Assault Boats out of Superior, Wisconsin. And I I'm pretty sure that their warranty is pretty much boilerplate across any vessel that they sell to to anybody.
>> Yeah. and and and part of that knowledge is is just to protect us when we're doing projections and when we know that type of boat, you know, how it served us and typical things that you might run into it. Um the other is um who insures
the vessel and have we checked with our insurance provider to see whether or not the nature of the service we provide is covered under that or if we have to have a specialized marine service associated with the use of the vehicle or the vessel. >> That's a good question and I don't have
an answer for you. >> Okay. Um and then the other uh question is um you mentioned about the certification and licensing that is going on with staff and then in your presentation and I didn't see it
in the 2026 budget. Was any of this designated for the costs associated with this program? >> No. Um just just because like like I I'd mentioned before that we will more than likely use our boat and water funds that
we get from the state of Minnesota to supply fuel. >> Yeah. >> Oil um you know lines, life jackets, you know, anything like that. >> Yeah. >> Um we we get a a a decent amount from the state each year for our boat and water
program. Um and many years we never really use that grant up. So, it's it would be a good use for those monies. >> Is that Stone Garden? >> No, that's it's something we uh the the different grants we get at the sheriff's office. Yes, we get Stone Garden. We also get a state of Minnesota boat and
water grant. We get a state of Minnesota ATV grant. We get a state of Minnesota um >> I just lost my train of thought now. >> Yeah. Um but but yeah we we we get many grants um which we can utilize for
equipment for for operational costs anything like that. >> Yeah I I would imagine that the Coast Guard discontinued uh service not necessarily from an assessment that the need doesn't exist but more from a financial standpoint
that it the cost that they were incurring that they had to prioritize as to where they were going to have a presence. um when we and I'm making an assumption there, but when we take a look at it, if we say where we're going to replace that service, then we're
going to look at all these component parts uh in order to find out how will we continue that. Um, we had a van that was donated to us in public health human services, which it was it was great to
have that as a transportation option for our community, but we did not have a a plan or funding or staffing and these components. And so it seems in some regards that answering all of the
questions that are a component of providing this service that we need to be assured that in fact we have it. There's no question that the need exists and there's no question that the initiative that Grand Portage took is to
our benefit. it just looking at it from the standpoint of how we have put these various pieces together to make sure that there's no surprises is is the big component. So in uh the 31 years that you've served
and all of the challenges that that uh you alluded to generically how does this compare? It's a great opportunity and it was mentioned in our recognition that this is something that you partnership with Grand Portage and be able to facilitate. um just looking at the
practical side of the financial side of it. And in my comparison with the the van that was made available to public health human services, it was great to get the van, but we haven't been able to use the van because we didn't have an effective plan that was thorough in its
evaluation moving forward. So, I appreciate your responses, but >> I think I think we have an effective plan. And I mean, like I said, we have two we'll have two certified captains. We have we have uh we have uh funds to to
supply the boat with with needed items. Um funds to to put fuel in the boat for when we need to go out on Lake Superior. And um so I I think I I think we have a plan. I mean, it's it's still a working plan. There's
no doubt about that. >> Yeah. Um, but you know, we we do have some of the pieces of the puzzle put in already. >> All right. Thank you, Pat. Brady, do you happen to know anything relative to insurance? MCI. >> Not a fan. I just sent them an email.
>> Okay. >> I may get an answer before the end of the meeting. >> Yeah. And my understanding there's a specialized marine insurance. And so often times when we step into an area that hasn't been our responsibility, it's making sure that our insurance is in place to handle that. Um,
>> thank you. >> I can add to the insurance piece, um, which is, uh, Brady, I had, um, had a conversation with Adriana regarding adding this to the policy, and I believe that the vessel has been added to the policy. That doesn't answer all the questions that you had,
>> but we do know that that piece has been taken care of. >> Okay. and and so in in um checking in that particular area that the response on that that given the scope and the nature of what we're doing that the insurance is fine in that regard
>> I can't answer that what I can say is the that that's what Brady has emailed MCIT regarding I believe correct >> yes >> just to see if there's anything special about it but >> yeah I mean we put it on the schedule
but Yeah, in my understanding that there is it is a specialized and I I know just insurance for um entities that uh whenever something sort of steps outside of the broad understanding of the provision that's in place. It's just getting an opinion that we know in fact
we are we are covered. And so um just it's a question. So thank you. I appreciate your responses. >> Attorney Peterson. >> Thank you madam chair. Um just in response to the maintenance questions commissioner because this governs the
understanding um but that it is actually a gift to the county excuse me um the presumption would be that the county is maintaining is responsible for the maintenance of the vessel. If there are funds available from the band and they
deem it in the best interest of all of the parties to the MLOU, certainly they could assist with any of the maintenance, but the presumption would be um that we are responsible for maintaining this generous gift from the band. >> Yeah, Madam Chair, for the followup,
appreciate that. Um, I I would just say again looking at a at a program that that the overall maintenance cost is is is certainly significant and it can run from 20 to $100,000 on a on a vessel like that. And we learn from other
people's experiences. We certainly learn from when we make a purchase on a vehicle. often times we're evaluating the the history of of that manufacturer, that vehicle to know that it is an investment that only provides a service
but provides the reliability that we're looking at. So maintenance costs don't end up being an issue. And we see in the highway department facilities that that often times our decisions are based upon the evaluation of ma of maintaining and it gets to a point where then we have to
make different decisions because it's costing too much to maintain. So it is a point of evaluation. Um who takes responsibility for it is is something that I would think in in a plan would be defined. And given the fact that we've been talking about this
for a couple of years at least, uh I would have seen while it might be an unknown, I would have expected to see it as a commissioner in ratifying the 2026 budget a component of that or at least an explanation of that if you understand what I'm saying. And so it's it it's not
an intention to uh be a a a stick in the spokes in in regard to this, but it is from the standpoint of of the management and being clear so that the public is aware of all the component parts and we can be excited about what we get, but we
want to be sure that we've we've anticipated and measured these things. So that's the reason for the discussion. Commissioner White, >> don't look a gift horse in the mouth. Um, do we want to go without without out
a boat out there and rely on our local fisherman? No. So, whatever it costs to maintain this gift to keep our public safe. That is just the cost of doing business. And I don't believe that. Um, I believe we were very fortunate. We did
a stint without the Coast Guard, which was not did we have two or three different saves that had to be done while the Coast Guard was gone. And so whatever it costs, um I have every um I don't know who does
your work, who who does the maintenance on the boats, somebody in Superior. It wouldn't be our highway department. >> But anyway, what whatever it is, the value of having our own boats out there boat out there in the harbor to to save
people is invaluable. And two, the question I originally had is staff that's going out, do you practice saving people or saving boats? I'm just curious, like you have a disabled boat, do you practice hauling one in or
>> Yes. the uh the the two individuals who have gone to captain school and and and some of the search and rescue members have taken Coast Guard training. Yes. >> Okay. That that was my big question. >> Yeah. >> Um I would have to give a little short background on all this. When we found
out in late 22 that Coast Guard was pulling out, um I gathered a group of people with Pat and we said we have to do something about this. Um, it especially is hard and difficult in Grand Portage area when they go out and find people trying to paddle a canoe to
Isle Royal or to get on any kind of other mode of transportation. We sent letters um requesting um support from the director of Isle Royal, Senator Clolobachar, Senator Smith, and it's taken all this long for them and other
people to respond for money for the boats and then to also have included Lake County too. And um the safety of people even being on the shore of Lake Superior is detrimental as we had
somebody who died last year result of a large wave, let alone somebody being in a vessel and being needing help and nobody's there to help them. So um I um along with Commissioner White say in the matter of safety and everything, we need
to support this because it's of utmost importance. Commissioner Mills. >> Yeah, I I agree with both what you're saying and I think to Commissioner Gamble's point, it's more of just understanding. I don't think Commissioner Gamble is saying we shouldn't do it, but we need to have a a a broader understanding of the
operations. But I guess the qualification I would just put there is we've kind of been waiting for a long time a for money and then also for the vessel. And so, um, we can't or it's like where do you put your energy with limited resources? Do you put it towards
something you're not sure when and if it's going to be procured or do you focus on other things that are happening that are very real and tangible challenges? So, um, yes, we do need that, but I did not expect to have a boat for 2026. So, that's why I wouldn't
have thought it to be in the budget, but for 2027, absolutely, we need to understand what the operations and costs and maintenance would be. So, I think we're all on a very similar page. Um just looking for more details. >> Commissioner Gamble. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I appreciate the
discussion and and again it's it it's it's a process of understanding uh our our responsibility both in service to the community and fiscal responsibility and at looking at at the dollar figure. So to Commissioner White's point and the
discussion, uh we we certainly understand what we lost and the risk that we uh inherited as a result of the loss of the Coast Guard. The evaluation of our response to it, how we meet that both in the service and in being able to
manage it through budget is the question. So we've talked about this as a board that when it comes to looking at our budget process a matter of prioritizing and so if if we feel that this moves up because of the nature of the service
provided it moves up in that priority rank we assign limited dollars based upon our evaluation of priority and and that is my point. If we have the component parts that allow us as decision makers to know
the elements that are involved in this service relative to fiscal responsibility, we are in a better position to weigh benefit and priority against limited dollars and that's the whole point of my discussion. So
>> Mr. White, >> well we could just go to how many people might we save on? Let's look at EMS, the budget, and then the boat. How many people would we save with the boat compared to the EMS services? And so, we
would save more with EMS. So, if it's only going to be three or four people, maybe we don't need a boat. That's an absurdity, of course. But yes, I I'm so grateful to Grand Portage that we have it. And I'm assuming all the insuranceances by our insurance people
will be figured out and we will get trained people out there and no one will drown on Lake Superior. Maybe other places but not Lake Superior. >> And again, Madam Chair, and to Commissioner Mills point, I'm I'm not
trying to be an adversary against it. I'm just trying to say this is this is an experience that we have as decision makers that is an opportunity for us to learn both of the opportunity but the fiscal responsibility that comes with us
and uh we've talked about uh sometimes things coming before the board that are requests for significant dollars that we don't have enough information on. We don't have all the component parts. It's very difficult to be a steward of something you know very little about. And that's why in the beginning of my
comments, I'm commenting about the fact that I apologize if if there's components that have been addressed in this area when I was not, you know, sitting on the board as a decision maker. So, I do appreciate the conversation and it's an exercise that
we will continue to have to deal with when we have requests. So, >> oh, Commissioner, >> just another uh parallel um regarding the the PHS van. Um there was a working
plan with that and staff as well and partnerships with other organizations, but unfortunately there's a lot of turnover and and again prioritizing resources. And so, say for instance at the sheriff's office, um, both captains
left, you know, it could be a similar situation. And so, you have to adapt and and work through those things. And >> can't can't predict it all. But I I hear you, I think, uh, on your um point of
needing a a better picture overall. And we'll get that. We'll work through it. Mhm. >> Well, we're making Bishop's last meeting memorable and he's really going to want to get out of here. >> Can't lie easy, but >> enough of this conversation. So, thank
you very much. And he won't take the boat with him, I'm sure. >> No, I can't. >> You want to make a motion? >> No. >> Could Could I could I could I mention something? >> Yes. Go ahead. I I would say, you know, I was just thinking while while this this conversation was going on that we
already do, you know, water activities, water rescues with our search and rescue folks and with our sheriff's office. So, I'm I'm I'm just going to guess that that is probably covered underneath the county's insurance at somewhere >> some point. >> So, I just wanted to get that out there
so so we could think about about that uh aspect as well. >> Activity is not brand brand new. >> Yeah. Yeah. Commissioner Sullivan. >> Madam Chair, I'd like to make a motion to adopt and sign the memorandum of understanding between Cook County and the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior
Chipa. >> I'll support that. >> Any further questions or comments? All in favor? >> I >> oppose. Same sign. Motion passes unanimously. Thank you, Pat. >> Thank you, Pat.
>> Thanks, everybody. Next item, number seven on our agenda is community center extension. >> Come on up. Good morning. >> Good morning. Morning. >> Before you today, we have a proposal to accept a donation of an outdoor AED
cabinet that will be uh placed at the community center. Uh I'm here with Chris Smith who's from the outdoor or from the Arrowhead AED organization which is a newly formed nonprofit that is helping to fund raise and promote these outdoor
uh accessible arrow uh AED cabinets. AED stands for automatic external defibrillator which is a machine that can be used when somebody's having a cardiac arrest to restart their heart. We already of course have one of these
located inside the community center. However, it is not accessible after 4 p.m. or on weekends, which is when many many uh activities are happening at the community center. You can see in your uh notes from our proposal the exact location of where we're proposing this
would be placed. Um and it would greatly expand accessibility to this life-saving technology um 24/7. So, the features of the cabinet are that it similar to kind of like a vending machine. It keeps the
AED from freezing um and protected from the elements. Because of that, it requires hookup to electricity. That's why we're going to locate it on the back of the building where it'll be uh easy to add that electrical hookup. Um and in that location it faces a lot
of the outdoor campus uh amenities such as the tennis courts and the playgrounds, the um hockey rink and is nearby to the ball field as well. Arahead AED is offering uh to donate
both the cabinet and the AED machine as well as the first four years of the maintenance and data plan that would be associated with this technology. After uh those first four years, the county could elect to continue paying
for that maintenance and data plan ourselves. If we decided not to pay for that plan from the company that it's coming from, the machine and the cabinet would still work. We would just have to manually check on it like we check on our other AEDs that we have indoors. And
it wouldn't have the same um feature of when somebody opens the door uh with this data plan, it will uh it can send a message via text to a preset list of phone numbers. So >> it calls 911. >> Yeah. Yeah. So if we didn't have that
plan after the four years, it would be just like our indoor AEDs. Somebody would be able to open it and use it. Um so the majority of the vast majority of the cost of this addition is being generously covered by this local nonprofit. The county would be in charge
of adding the electricity uh outlet to be able to hook up the machine and a very minimal amount of our labor for installing as well as the cost of the electricity to run the cabinet which is estimated to be about $25 per year.
We'll stop there and ask if you have any questions about the proposal. >> Questions or comments? Commissioner Gamble. >> Yeah, thank you, Madam Chair. Uh so a question I would have is just uh because it's it's located outside
>> is that that hookup that connection if we if we're going to make that connection if there's something that is a security measure relative to that connection so that it can't be disabled. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. It's not just like a it's not well I don't understand all the electricity
stuff but it's not just like a power cord you plug in. It's like hooked up. It's It's strict wired, hardwired. So, yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. That was just a question I had if somebody just >> Yeah. And also for um um even vandalism,
>> it's got a camera on it and it even says on the machine, "Smile, you're on camera." >> Yeah. >> So that if someone takes it and drives to with it, we know where it's at. >> Yeah. >> With this plan. >> Yeah. Yeah. It's it's it's great. And we often
wonder where's the money coming from? But when organizations >> when when organizations step up and help out like that, it's greatly appreciated. >> Administer Treble. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I would just like to add that um thank you to Chris
Smith and to Sarah. Um Chris uh reached out to me several months ago regarding this idea and has worked very hard to make this happen for the county. So, I just want to say we appreciate your work and and the effort that you've put into this >> and this is just one. I plan to be here
many times. So, >> I think we're off to a good start. >> Commissioner White >> eggs the question, what's the cost of one of these units? This unit, the prices will rise. I get this, but >> yeah, it's it's listed in the packet. So, the outdoor cabinet itself is
$4,600. The AED machine to go in it is $3,100. Uh the data plan for four years is $400 and the maintenance plan for four years is $537. >> And can I add with the maintenance plan,
what that does is um then our maintenance or the maintenance company when it's used, they will come up right away. They will maintain it. They will replace the pads. So that's part of the maintenance. So there really isn't much cost. And after the four years, my goal
with this um nonprofit is to keep it going for the rest of my life. So after the four years is up, come back to us. Hey, our four years is up. Can we apply for, you know, maybe we can keep paying for the So depends on what we can fund and what we can raise. But our long-term
goal would be to that basically wouldn't cost anybody much money but maybe the electricity until >> for that. So, it's kind of a Commissioner Gamble. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I make a motion to approve the donation of the outdoor AED cabinet along with the AED device
and four years of monitoring and maintenance plan from Arrowhead AED to Cook County >> support. Any further questions or comments? All in favor? >> I oppose. Same sign. Motion passes unanimously. >> Thank you very much.
>> Thank you. We're going to go right now to item A on maintenance and after that we're going down to item 11 because we have two representatives waiting in the audience to discuss um their request. Good
morning. >> Morning. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. um just coming today for approval to replace a old lawn mower. We have um something we've budgeted for for a few years and this year we have the funds to take care of it with the capex.
>> Any questions? >> Yeah, thank you, Madam Chair. Appreciate it. Um >> aren't you out of questions for today, Gary? >> Yeah. So looking at uh the budget that you proposed to us um under uh supplies
small equipment, I'm assuming this comes under the capital purchases line item. >> Yes, sir. >> Yeah. And and uh we saw a significant ask this year. You must have been feeling your oats at the time that you came to make this request um uh with a
1,250% increase in that particular line item which amounts to $100,000 which is just under and bordering on 1% of levy. But um so maybe it just felt like it was a good year to try to catch up. You you
came and you you you got that Bobcat. >> Yep. that came in significantly under what we had initial thought the purchase price was. >> Right. >> And this had been budgeted last year, >> right? >> But with the price increases, we didn't have the extra $4,000. They had only
budgeted $10,000 for the purchase of the new lawn >> mower last year. >> So with the with the extra we had from the purchase of the Bobcat and then the 10,000 we had budgeted >> makes this possible. Yeah. So, does that
does that pretty much take care of that amount of money or will we see something else this being April >> as far as that that budget? >> No, there'll be some left over, but I don't have any other purchases planned. >> Yeah. Okay. >> Yeah. >> And and I appreciate that. I always appreciate if if we have made a decision
to affirm a budget request and then you come and you fulfill you know what that indication is then it's a lot easier than coming in with a surprise that's wasn't included in the budget as so I I appreciate that. Um, so I I'd make a
motion to support the the purchase of the uh Toro 74059 60in 4000Z riding mower as provided for in the budget. >> I'll support that. >> Any further questions or comments? All
in favor? >> I oppose. Same sign. Motion passes unanimously. >> Thank you, Madam. >> Thank you. Just to let um land services know, I'm postponing you for a little bit because we have we're going down to item number 11, the loan to town of
Luden for rescue truck. So, uh we have um Supervisor Hamak and Fire Chief Duclo. For the last couple months, we've been discussing the need for this and um they have put together a packet on that. Um, Supervisor Hamak has been working
with uh, Brady and um, I'll turn it over to Brady if he has any >> uh, >> opening comments. >> No, no, Madam Chair. You did it quite well. Uh, I'll let them go ahead and speak. >> Um, thank you commissioners. Uh, thank
you Brady for your help with this. Um we are here today uh to request the county's help with a loan to purchase a new uh Rosenbower rescue truck for the Loots and Fire and EMS. The loan would be at in the total of 306,51.
Um that is 75% of the purchase. The township would cover the other 25%. And this would be a loan, not a grant. So, um, open to discussing terms and how that may work. Um, we have in the past,
uh, received a loan from Cook County for the construction of our town hall. Um, and so looking for something similar. Um, our goal would be to at least have a preliminary yay or nay. Um, or at least
an idea so that we can sign a contract. The build process for this truck is about 600 days. So, we're looking at at least the end of next year. Have anything you'd like to add? Uh the need for this truck is it's pretty
obvious in our department right now. Our all of our uh what we'd call rescue stuff, whether it be the Jaws of Life, ropes, things like that, they're spread out amongst all the trucks. And uh this is really going to help consolidate things, makes makes our job
easier and better care for patients, things like that. Um we have, you know, one of our trucks also is what we call the brush truck, a wildland truck. So when that gets called out with say the Forest Service or the DNR, we have to take a bunch of
equipment off there that we might need if we get another call when that truck goes out. And that truck might be gone for a day. Um, so it's just trying to make our jobs better so we can better serve the community. >> One of the things that if all of you are
familiar with your fire departments know that things happen suddenly and um at the township meeting this month, it was requested for $500 and they needed it right now. So, you know, your budget just keeps fluctuating and the request
for things immediately is uh okay, we don't have time to really see if we can afford it. We have to do it. So, that's why they need a little bit of help right now. So, um Commissioner Gamble, >> thank you, Madam Chair. Uh Brady, do we have anything? I mean, you mentioned the
loan for the the town hall. Uh, do we have a policy that defines rate and term or is it something that we negotiate? >> It was in the packet for volunteer fire departments. Uh, the policy passed in 2012 said a 1%
>> okay >> rate for under over 100,000 >> and the term >> uh 20 years >> 20 years >> 20 years maximum. >> Okay. >> Oh, I'm sorry. Um, I think it's 25. >> 25. Okay. >> That's 25. Okay. So the the discussion
obviously coming in when you come to the county that we you know the the terms under which you know you're approaching us and it was identified that if the county doesn't provide it then you'd have to look elsewhere which wouldn't be as favorable. So I just the only
question I had is relative to so the public is aware of the term and the basis under which it is so we can come alongside and help in that regard but every but he's clear on what the arrangement is. But the the the thing to think about is that's uh a 14-year-old
policy. Uh interest rates have changed dramatically. >> Yeah. >> Uh we've changed our uh our policy on what we're charging recently. Yeah. >> On another. >> So, uh I think this policy is ripe for some discussion.
>> Yeah. And you probably know more than we know and that's why you hit us while we were down, so to speak. But >> Yeah. No, we uh we were not planning that far ahead or looking at the age of that policy. We just know that it's something that the county has helped with in the past. Sure.
>> Yeah. And this is this is uh obviously how we partnership in providing the services that are needed within our community and and uh I think that the community as a whole certainly agrees that providing these services uh is is important but uh to the point
re-evaluating policy to make sure it's it's current and we're attempting to do that on a lot of fronts. So thank you. >> Yeah. The other thing we haven't discussed um regarding this is just how much of our fund balance is available for things
like this. >> We've put $500,000 set aside for the egg BMP program because of that. Um and and there may be other requests that come forward and and we have a very changed
policy regarding the use of our um available fund balance that changed in 2020. So that comes after this policy which is very dated. So you may want to discuss I would think some of these
things. And to that point, Brady, I would say that um >> keeping us appraised because a lot of times we discuss it in the budget cycle, but we don't necessarily discuss it as we go through the year, but but if we were to look since the beginning of 2026,
the amount that we have taken from that reserve fund that we did with the EDA 200,000. So if you look at it and just letting us know so that we're not thinking that it's free money that is there every every time a request comes
before. So again in a previous conversation it's it's a balance between our fiscal responsibility and meeting need and and we need to have the discipline through evidence-based budgeting that shows that we're good stewards of taxpayer money. So appreciate the conversation.
>> Administrator Travel. >> Thank you Madam Chair. Um, I just want to remind the board that at our last work session, we did talk about county loans. Um, and so I want I just pulled up the minutes um, from that discussion and we did discuss Brady and I working
together to update the loan policy and to look at the interest rate terms. Um, and we talked about also if there should be a match and should we cap how much we have out, providing out um, in loans to ensure that our fund balance remains
where it needs to be as well. Um, and creating criteria for applying or for those applying um, for uh, for these funds as well. And so just to make sure the board remembers that discussion as you considered this request before you,
the one question I would have is um just related to fund balance. Can you share um some information about your current fund balance for the Luden Fire Department? >> Yes. Um so currently uh we have uh 327,000
as of our last meeting in our truck fund. Um that fund was set up a number of years ago um with the intention of sending money aside every year out of our uh fire and township levies to help
support any um large vehicle maintenance uh breakdowns um or the possible future purchase. Um, when you look at current cost of a fire engine or tender or even these rescue
vehicles, you're talking a half million for a rescue vehicle more often than not. For a fire engine or tender, you're talking over a million dollars. So, that truck fund at $327,000 seems like a fair chunk of change, but when you're talking about a million
dollar truck, that's almost it's a little more than what you would need just for a down payment. Um, and so right now, like I said, we have 327,000. Our goal is to use uh little less than a third of that. Um, I believe it was 102
167. Um, and that would be a quarter of this purchase, leaving uh a little over 200,000 as our emergency reserve. Because if we were to have any large mechanical breakdown, um, even to refurbish a fire engine or a tender,
it's $50 to $60,000 to refurbish to keep it in service. If you have a large uh pump breakdown, engine breakdown, or other issues that are not covered by insurance, you could easily be at $100,000. Um, and if it was
something where it was out of service uh completely, that remainder in that truck fund would then be used for um going after a loan to replace that vehicle. Um, and so that's where our
funds are at currently. Chris, can you can you talk about any grants that you may have looked at, things that may be available for uh fire vehicles, >> federal or state? >> Yep. So, through the uh through FEMA,
there is a fire uh assistance grant. Um I don't know if it's specifically for rural departments or not. Uh we have in the past applied for that grant. It's highly competitive. Um we applied for that two years ago when we replaced all of our air packs to the cost of
$110,000. Um and we did not receive it then. Um and so that grant is one that we will go after again when that uh application period opens. Um the reason why the ask is what it is right now is because we
can't bank on receiving any grants because most of these are highly competitive. Um, even at the state level there are grants, but they're $1,000 to $5,000. They're small. At the federal level, they're much larger, but they're much
more competitive. Um, our plan is to apply for anything and everything that we can find. Um, like we did with our drone purchase, which will be a conversation at a later date, but we've been applying for grants. We've received
a few for our drone purchase as well as other equipment at the township level. Um, we have a fairly uh what would you how would you describe Sharon as a grant writer? >> Awesome.
>> Uh, we have a we have a very awesome grant writer in Sharon Hexom Plat. Um, and she is always looking for grants and willing to write them. So, we are going to continue to look for grants, but as of right now, we know of two. Um, we will
be applying when those application windows are open, but in for this purchase and be able to sign a contract, we kind of need to know that at least we have funding. Um, and if we were to receive grants, that would then offset the total amount that we're requesting
in financing. >> Commissioner Gamble. >> Yeah, thank you, Madam Chair. Yeah, there's a question I was going to have if you as you were talking that that uh in pursuit of grants and the and the ask that's coming before us giving the amount of time it takes to get this you
know truck manufactured that uh you you have the option to to reduce the amount that you're asking for based upon the findings but uh in order to put the order in you need to have the asurances that you're going to have the monies there so I appreciate that and I
appreciate the resourcefulness in uh in trying to secure monies in multiple ways. >> Thank you, >> Commissioner Sullivan. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Um either Chris or Steve um maybe could answer this. Um
I know to the public it seems like a huge amount of money, but I also know that these um trucks have a very long lifespan. Can you talk a little bit about the lifespan of one of these? Yeah. So, current NFPA standards, so
like our engine, our tenders, they have a 20-year lifespan. At that point, we can replace them or we can refurbish them. We just refurbished our engine about 6 years ago. That gives us another 20 years. And our tender due, I think, in about 3 years to be refurbished. And
as Chris was mentioning, that's going to be about $50,000. >> Um, it's a lot cheaper than a new truck, of course. Um, you know, this rescue truck's not going to carry any water or anything like that. So, it doesn't quite fall under the same parameters as NFPA
guidelines. >> Um, but it it'll last a long time. I mean, you think about the hours or the miles that we put on them. It's it's pretty minimal. Even our our engine, I think, is a 2005. And again, we were just talking that in 15
years, we'll probably refurbish that again with keeping in mind in 30 years, they're going to have to buy a new engine at that point. Just given the date of it. So, they do last a long time. >> All right. Well, thank you for that information. I think that if the public realizes the type of expenditure that is
being made over many, many years, um there's a better understanding of the value of the this expenditure. Commissioner Mills. >> Um, okay. So, the um vehicle fund, the truck fund
um is important to understand in case there's a catastrophic failure in a vehicle or a truck. And it sounds like it was the one was just refurbished six years ago and then in three years we'll have another one to refurbish. Um,
so what I'm wondering is what is more like I'm just trying to figure weigh fund balance options, how to best use the fund balances that both we have and what you guys have. And I have to trust in you and your operations on,
you know, keeping your uh fund balance healthy and and active and all that. um and and what best practices um because that's out of my wheelhouse. >> Mhm. >> One of the questions I was wondering about and I know the mutual aid where I
mean in here it's you know state and and feds but also any other fire department in the county, right? You guys all work together. What I was curious about was if there's a comprehensive truck plan because, you know, if if
uh you know, four or five fire departments come asking for a, you know, a $300,000 loan, um we can't do that with our fund balance. And so I I can see a lot of benefit. I can also see the
extreme hurdle that would be to coordinate all the departments, but it would really help me better understand what our community's needs are in regards to those capital purchases, which as you pointed out are significant. So, I'm not at all against
this, but I would like to try to coordinate more both with maybe other departments, but um I was really curious like I understand the grants are are very competitive and and probably don't want to hold our breath on those. Um but
I was really curious if there was like Minnesota Fire Department loans. You know, you would hope that the state would provide a lower interest than a commercial loan for these types of purchases. I'm certain there are other communities, rural communities that have
similar challenges. So, um I would like to explore more options, but um I understand the need and um I don't know what the best path is um to to figure all this out timing wise, you
know, because that 600 day buildout. Um but uh wanted to throw that out there for further thoughts and discussion. Okay, Commissioner Gamble. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you,
Commissioner Mills. The when um when we're in the budget cycle and the fire departments come in and make their requests, uh how much communication goes on, uh inter fire department within the county. um some of
the buying power we get if we if we have buying power you know with various counties that are doing something I mean when when facilities purchases through the state site or just looking at you know ways that you can try to get more for your dollar kind of thing that
that's that's a healthy discussion and we you know where we sit we don't know how much that goes on when you're talking to Hovinder you know out the trail relative to these things and whether there's the feasibility of even having equipment
that is usable throughout the county given how large our county is. So if somebody is like farmers, somebody would buy the harvester, somebody would buy the tiller and you know what I'm saying? And then when it came to season, they would they would share that equipment.
But we we are in a position to want to understand which is what your question raised. But but certainly you know more and you can help inform us in that regard just to see and we we we learn from what you inform us about as to how
you approach these things with these big purchases. Well, so um what I can speak to is that there are there is the meeting every month of the fire chiefs association >> every other month >> or sorry every hour of the month. Even know more on that but um I as far as I
know there's not a comprehensive plan across all the departments. Uh when you look at Cook County there are nine departments. Um, when you look at fireh halls alone, there are 12 or 13 throughout the county because you have to look at Maple Hill having
two, Gunflint Trail having three. Um, yes, there are definitely resources throughout the county. Everybody has something different. >> Um, Kleville has a um heavy rescue for vehicles. The Hovind has the stop team.
Um, Grand Marray and Toy both have uh aerial trucks, so ladder trucks with the either platform or um uh nozzles at the top of that ladder available for rescue. So, all of the departments have various
parts and pieces um and like you said, there are mutual aid agreements amongst all of them. As far as I know, like I said though, I don't believe there is a comprehensive plan amongst all the departments. And that would be difficult to do looking at how everything's organized. It's my understanding that
Hovland, Kovville, uh, Gunflint Trail, and Maple Hill don't have the ability to levy uh, funds on their own. I believe that they do it through, uh, in part with the county. Correct. >> And also through fundraising. >> Yep. whereas Loot and Tafty and
Schroeder are all townships and have the various fire districts and the ability to levy funds on their own. >> Um, and so >> not quite sure how a countywide plan would look and if it's even feasible
just given how every organization is structured differently. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. I guess I was just thinking of the big stuff, right? like not all the packs or anything, just like the million-doll truck like the bigger purchase. It might be >> some because I mean Liten Fire
Department's very generous and often times there are, you know, handme-downs that other departments can use. Um and so that's advantageous for everybody. Um um I'm just trying to get a a better comprehensive understanding and you know
I don't know like you said you know how if it's even practical to have that sort of thing but um I appreciate the every other month. >> Um I can >> is that is that for just the county or is that >> that's the county and the state fire
marshall's office. >> Okay. Okay. >> Yeah. And to add to the the mutual aid thing, so say like uh Luton Resort or Caribou Highlands, you know, if Grand Marray's coming, they're going to send the bare minimum cuz you got to protect your own as well. You can't empty your
resources out to go help another person. So, >> and it's the same for us like we're not going to send every truck that we have up the >> gunflint. Strategy. >> Yep. >> Commissioner Gamble. Madam Chair, would you like to make a motion given this is
in your district? Go ahead. >> I'm listening to the discussion first. >> Y >> administrator travel. Um just based on the discussion today, I just have a question for the board and that's um if it would be helpful for Brady and I to look at the impact on our fund balance
and also have some discussion about the interest rate since that came out of the board retreat and bring back more information and put this potentially on the next board agenda for a decision once we have information related to what that percentage rate may look like um
and in the impact on the fund balance. I don't know if the the board needs that information today to make the decision, but I just wanted to put that out there. >> Mr. G. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I I appreciate that. I I think that um being in uh in a
better position as our discussion has showed that that uh it helps us to be informed and to know where we're coming from and that's part of stewardship responsibility. I would say relative to your request that um and the timeline,
what was your anticipation following uh the anticipated approval by this board as far as placing that order? Um the current contract that we have um I believe >> it's May 20th
>> and it's valid until the 20th of May. >> So we'd have one meeting. >> Yep. And so our goal would be to sign this contract after our next township meeting, which I believe is the 19th of May, >> so that we can send it in and remain at this pricing level. Um, given how much
materials in the market are fluctuating on everything right now, there's no guarantee that this price will be available if we >> pass that May 20th date. Yeah. >> And so our goal really was to more or less have a yay or nay on
whether it's it's a loan that you would be willing to do. We don't need to know the exact rate or term at this time. Um just because I was made aware by Brady that um the interest rates and everything else. I I I mean I'm well
aware of what's going on in the market. I looked at commercial loans and I do it for my business all the time. commercial loan rates have fluctuated from 4 and a half to 8%. Um the goal here was though to at least have a year or a on the loan
uh percentage and term to come later still with the hope that that p uh that rate would still be less than going out for a commercial bank loan. >> Our next meeting then would be May 12th and the township meeting is the 19th.
>> Commissioner Sullivan. So, Madame Chair, given every um bit of information we've heard, the really good questions that have been asked, what I'd like to do is make a motion to approve the loan to the town of Looten for the purchase of a rescue truck with on May 12th a decision
to be made on the rate and term. >> Gabble. >> Yeah. And I would I would support that. I appreciate the uh the fact that that we're willing to take a look at this and revisit it. Um
my reaction to that is this is good. That's good. Uh out of respect for where you're at in this process, if you're agreeable to looking at something that is both balancing our stewardship
responsibility but wanting to meet your need. So representing, you know, taxpayer dollars, um, we have that fiscal responsibility to them and we have that commitment to our community to provide the equipment we need in order
to provide the services we want to do. So if you're comfortable with the motion as presented that we would have that discussion, I think that would be a that would demonstrate fiscal responsibility balanced with need to meet need.
So I would support that motion in that context >> with you having that understanding. >> Yes, we that would be great. >> Yeah. >> The motion commissioner SA made a motion and I uh second that. Is there any further discussion? Commissioner Mills?
>> I guess where I was trying to go and failed was uh looking at our options with our fund balance and our needs as a community as a whole. I want I want to support this and I want this to happen. What I'm trying to figure out is the best way to
make this happen. And um what I'm trying to understand is why we wouldn't just back their fund balance and they use their fund balance to to buy it. The the the um the truck balance
uh seems to be what that's for. And it's also kind of an emergency thing. So if an emergency comes up, yeah, we got your back. You know, if you if you guys have a truck breakdown, we got that. But in the meanwhile, you know, you have the money to do that versus
I don't know how it's going to put us as an organization without this is not something that I was anticipating at all in our overall and again fully support needs to happen. I understand we want this to be uh not postponed uh because
of the build time. Uh, and we want our um first responders and and fire departments out as as fast as possible. We want that efficiency. So, I'm just trying to understand all of that. So, I would not want to say we approve this
loan, but I would want to say we support this purchase. Don't know how yet. >> Mr. Gamble. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I would ask Brady with what you know
about fund balance to Commissioner Mills point where would where would this put us? Does this make you uncomfortable or not? And that's predicated on the fact that you're monitoring this on >> I have not looked at this. >> Okay. All right. So
to the motion that's made I um I I would say that and to what you're recommending for us that we would evaluate >> and know the particulars if I were sitting where they're sitting. Um if we
say well you use your money and just know we have your backs if between whatever happens in 600 days and we say well we had good intentions but unfortunately I would not feel comfortable with that. So I >> require an MOU or something you know.
>> Pardon? Yeah. And so so I would say that that um I mean a business makes the decision if they feel that their investment is going to see a significant return um on their investment meaning that I'm
going to borrow this money at this rate at this term and I know that I can use that money to generate or to provide the service that I need to do. that analysis um contributes to my asurances that I'm making a good decision and in so in this
situation with the comments that have been made we want to make this happen how we make that happen I think coming into that May 12th meeting we can answer the question where we're at with our revenues and um what we think is fair
and equitable balancing our fiscal responsibility with meeting community need. And if you're comfortable with that, then I I my recommendation would be that we would make the loan and um
and take the uncertainty out of a changing environment because we how quickly that can change. That would that would be my trying to demonstrate both empathy for if I were sitting in your position and fiscal responsibility on the part of a decision maker for
taxpayers. So, If I may, >> um, at our annual meeting when this was discussed, we, uh, every year have our annual meeting, the same day that we vote on new supervisors and clerk or treasurer, things like that. At that
annual meeting, there were several citizens there, and we put this question out to everyone that was at that meeting. And it was the general consensus at that meeting as well that yes, we have this truck fund and we have
that balance. Um and initially our plan when we discussed it was to actually use um go half and half uh in this purchase. So do 200 or so and then look for financing on the other 200. Uh at that
meeting, the citizens themselves and a few of us in that conversation came to the idea that it's better to have that emergent truck fund where it is and instead of having to possibly fund raise
in an emergency in the future. >> Um and so that was when we're going to our constituents at the township level. Um that was what they wanted. And so that's kind of why we brought it the way we did.
>> Um, understanding that yes, that yes, we do have that truck fund, but it was also balancing what the citizens of Luden were looking for. >> Commissioner Mills. >> Um, I'm I am really curious about the state um equipment contract if we can
tap into that um somehow. I don't know if fire departments are allowed to do that or if we can, but that's an incredible savings when we're able to. Um, and yeah. >> Um, so that's part of the process that we did. Um, normally with a purchase of
this amount, you would have to open it up for uh sealed bidding and go through a sealed bid process. >> Well, the state has Yep. >> Yep. their contracts, which is not >> they have they have the ability to at the township level, you have the ability to buy from any other municipality. you
don't have to go through the sealed bid process then because it's a >> it's and I don't know all of the legal ease behind it. I just know that that's when we talked with Steve Fensky at uh Minnesota Association of Townships. He said that if you're purchasing from another municipality that sealed bid
process you don't have to go through. And so we looked into that. We looked at the state um buying program and I'm blanking on the name of it but I know what you're talking about. And in this case, we went with another group that's very similar, has already done the bid
process on exactly what we want, and that's Sourcewell. And so, it's a variation. I they're a uh how how are they described on the website? >> I'm kind of familiar with Sourceville. >> Yeah. And so, more or less the same
idea. They've already gone out and looked for the contracts and the bids. So, that was part of what we've done. >> Perfect. Thank you. Mhm. >> Commissioner Gamble. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Um, at this point, if the board is comfortable,
if Commissioner Sullivan could restate her motion so we're clear on it given all of the pieces that are moving here. >> Surely. So, my motion was to approve a loan to the town of Looten for the purchase of a rescue truck for use by the Lootson Fire Department with the
rate and term to be determined at our May 12th meeting. >> And I will second that again. Okay. Agreeable. Okay. Any further comments? I'll call for a vote unless there's any more comments.
All in favor? >> I >> oppose. Same sign. >> May 12th. >> Perfect. And so, madam chair, commissioners, >> thank you. >> Thank you guys. >> Thank you. >> All right. So, item number nine is land services.
couple different updates we have. >> Good morning, Madame Chair and board members. I have a couple of items for you from the April 8th planning commission meeting. The first one is a reszone request submitted by Howard Hedstrom. This is very similar to the
reszone request that was approved last month. This is for the adjacent parcel immediately east of the parcel we spoke about that was off of the Gunflint Trail north of Headstrom's Lumber. It's the exact same request to reszone the property from Light Industrial to F3. Mr. Hedstrom is exploring submitting a
request to plat out the property for residential subdivision. And in that discussion with him, uh, we were talking about the platted road going through that parcel we just reszoned, F3. And if that road was to access a 20acre light industrial lot, we would really have a
lot of questions about the intensity of the road. You know, if that property is going to be light industrial, um maybe that road needs to be more than just a residential road. And then he expressed, well, what if I, you know, do the platting with that as well and turn that into residential housing and said, well,
yeah, we could, you know, explore that option. So, that is the option that he is now exploring. And so he has been working diligently on uh putting together a plat proposal for this property to include this 20 acre lot as well as the 40acre lot. We did send out
the public notices. We received no written correspondence and there was no one at the public hearing to speak on the request from the public. Um and so this would effectively allow four 5 acre lots to be added to that residential
platted subdivision. Um, and the light industrial zoning, as a reminder, that typically allows lots down to 2 acres in size. Um, so this would uh actually be a little bit more restrictive to require 5 acre lots. And so I believe this is
consistent with the reszone that was just done. Um, light industrial zoning right next to residential zoning is a little awkward if they were sharing the same road. Um, I think it would lead to a lot of questions in the future. Um, and with the lack of any opposition, the planning commission felt supportive of
this request and unanimously recommended approval. >> Questions or comments? Commissioner Sullivan? >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Um, I did receive some um, inquiries and just some comments from constituents that live in the area and they're very pleased with
this approach and are very supportive of it. Those those people that I spoke to. So, I just wanted to share that. Commissioner Mills, >> bravo on the 20, the additional 20, but is there still no I mean, it's a lot
more affordable to do a roso, isn't it? >> I uh Mr. Hedstrom has looked into that design. Um, again, he's weighing the different market metrics and from his perspective, the fiveacre lots just have a different market value than smaller
lots. tried and true. >> Mr. Sullivan, >> Madam Chair, I'd like to make a motion to approve the resolution for the reszone of the 21.03 acres from light industrial to F3 on parcel 532352300.
>> Support. >> Okay, we have a a motion and a second. Any further questions or comments? >> All in favor? >> I oppose. same sign. Motion passes unanimously. >> Thank you. The second item that was reviewed at the planning commission on
April 8th are proposed amendments to the Cook County Septic Ordinance that have been brought forward by the land services department, specifically our environmental health officer, Jesse Johnson. Um, as he's been moving into this position, uh, there's been fresh eyes on our septic ordinance as he's been taking the various certifications
with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency regarding state septic regulations. and it's um led us to find some inconsistencies with state rules as well as inconsistency with the actual application of our subject program. And so sometimes fresh eyes are a healthy
practice. Um so a lot of these items I believe are housekeeping, but some of them also are addressing some issues that we've been running into that I believe will lead to better consistency in the application of these regulations and a little bit better transparency in our public process. Um, one of the
items, you know, we we did send out the notice of this to all the septic contractors in the county to gather any feedback that they might have. One septic contractor did provide written correspondence back to us and did not express opposition to these requests. If anything, they added they wanted more
clarity in some of the definitions and terms that we have. Um, but we had already publicly noticed this. So, we'll kind of make a note of that for exploration in the future. Um the planning commission when we discussed these items did have some general conversation elements that we uh
elaborated on. Um one of them was the topic of composting toilets. Um, there's a term public domain composting toilet and it's an allowance in our ordinance that when it was originally put in, it was designed to
allow flexibility in what we call a composting toilet that land owners could self-design a composting toilet. And uh, I think there was an idea that we would have these um, a list of what these like self-designed composting toilets would
be. That list never came to fruition. And I think a part of that is just the nature of a self-designed composting toilet. It's a a difficult bar to prove that it's meeting the intent of our septic regulations to protect public health and the environment um and
safety. So we don't have a list of these public domain composting toilets. So if someone comes to us and says, "Well, I'm just going to go to the bathroom and I'm going to mix up with some wood chips and just like I do with my compost at home." Uh you know, at this point we say no, that's that's not okay. But this kind of
leads us to this openness that is really uncomfortable especially when all other elements of the septic ordinance is very prescribed and highly designed um and very specific for the gravity of the public health concerns and um natural resource concerns that could be raised
from these things not being managed correctly. So, uh, we are making the recommendation that we strike that public domain composting toilets, but we still allow patented composting systems. So, this is not removing the opportunity for people to have composting systems.
We know that they can work in Cook County if they're done correctly. And um I think that there's exploration in the future to revisit this idea of the public domain composting toilets if we actually had a a reasonable list that we felt truly was protective and in meeting
the intent of our ordinance. So um that is one of the discussion items we had at the planning commission and you may have seen in your pockets at the end of this item was the updated memo from Jesse Johnson that elaborated on some of these conversation topics at the planning commission. um he's unable to join us today because he's at one of his septic
trainings. But um the other item that was discussed was the option uh the discussion of flow meters. Um this sounds like a big change, but it's actually not. When you have a a pump on your septic tank pumping up to the mound, that essentially is a flow meter. It's keeping track. Um so this is more
of a a bit of a clerical change. I don't believe it has a really substantive change. Um and uh we made some changes to what we would call administrative variances. Uh in the past we had a little bit more open language than we are comfortable with that gave the
environmental health officer potential discretion to allow variances from our septic regulations. And we had some push back to be more lenient with that allowance than we were comfortable with. We feel that if there's a setback variance from a septic system to a lake that really should be vetted through the
board of adjustment through our appropriate variance review process and not up to an individual um and add more transparency to our public process. So that is a that's probably one of the more substantive changes. We will probably see more variances at the board of adjustment because of a result of that. But we feel pretty strongly that
that's a pretty important process. um it might generate some complaints from contractors because it will delay projects if something comes up and they wanted more variance relief. Um but uh at the end of the day, we need to plan for that accordingly during the site design and permitting phase. And then
lastly, um a couple years ago, there was a provision added to the septic ordinance that was trying to nudge contractors to move through projects u clerically with their paperwork a little bit more timely. And so there's a five permit rule requirement that got added into the ordinance. We found that that
really hasn't been applied um very accurately with what it was intended. Didn't really drive the results that were intended for. Uh so we are striking that and I believe that will be uh well received by the contractors. So um again no strong opposition to any of this.
This we feel is adding more protection to our policies and processes and more alignment with the um purposes and intent of the septic ordinance and it was a unanimous recommended approval by the planning commission. >> Questions or comments? Commissioner
Gamble. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you, Ma, for the um comprehensive overview. Um I I take from that um the responsibility that we have for compliance and a policy
that is revisited so that it reflects what is current and what we know. It provides flexibility so we aren't driving an individual to a simple solution, a singular solution. Um, but
we need to create that flexibility within the context of what we know. I'll call it a term that gets abused, science informed. Um, so that uh homeowners realize that we're we're managing our responsibility, balancing
that responsibility for the environment and providing options based upon the choice that a homeowner might want to use. The other thing is that policies and practices that seem to be our cake or we have them in place but they aren't
adhered to, they need to be evaluated so that in fact it is something that we can with integrity make sure that they're being complied with. So I appreciate the discussion that informs how we got where we're at today. So thank you. >> You're welcome.
>> Do you recall when the five permit rule was put in place? I believe it was around 2022. >> Yeah. >> So, is there a plan to address the concern that made the
five permit rule happen? >> Um, I think the hope is that when people engage with a septic contractor, they have a contract in place with them that outlines expectations just like any other business agreement. uh and that it's up to the those property owners to
hold their contractor to those terms um >> because that's what they were asking the county to help with. >> Our office receives multiple times throughout the year um concerns from the public about why their permit is being
delayed and why their contractor is not installing their septic system. Yeah. >> Um and we find that we've issued the permits is just We don't control when the private sector does their work. >> Yeah. >> And there's been cases of people waiting years for this work to happen.
>> Three. Yeah, for sure. Well, that's what I was just wondering like that was the reason for the five permit rule. >> Yeah. >> And now we're going to try eliminating the five permit rule again to try to address that same reason. Right. That's
what I'm just like, huh? I don't know. But it's worth going and trying again. Yeah, it's, you know, it was a I think if I had been director at the time, we probably wouldn't have moved forward with that. It's not a a very um >> Sure.
>> reliable metric in an ordinance. >> I can certainly see the barriers. Absolutely. I'm just trying to find a solution. >> Yes. I mean, we just we try to be transparent with property owners and educate them in this process. Um, but ultimately property owners need to be responsible for their contractors and
know that it's not the county necessarily slowing up these projects. >> Yeah. Well, >> yeah. I also just wanted to say I had a conversation with Neva about the public domain composting toilets because that's what my family has and I feel very strongly about it. Everything Neva said
is absolutely correct. Though it's uh difficult to manage and uh to have consistency is near impossible. we don't have the staffing to go in and like stay on top of and it could get way out of control. It could become unsafe. I can see that
>> from personal experience very easily. So, um I still want to find a solution here. But until we do, I agree that we shouldn't allow it. Um but I will I will still work towards a solution. I've
gotten to the point where, you know, I'm looking at a microscope and looking at, you know, the bacteria in compost. And so, um, we'll get to the bottom of it. >> Yeah. I don't know that I want to get to the bottom. >> Not always.
>> Some people they get their they get a septic designer to uh do the work on their property and go through the process of getting it approved. They cannot control the weather >> which the uh installers which they can't
control the weather or equipment breakdowns or anything like that and we don't have an excess of numbers of contractors in this county. So, um I if somebody one thing if somebody had
a brother-in-law who was a uh certified licensed installer in another county, if they got a permit from Cook County, could they have their brother-in-law come and install the system for them? >> I know no particular situation, but you
know, it's like we have a shortage of installers. >> So, state license, right? >> Yeah. Installation still needs to be done by a licensed installer, >> right? >> But even >> anywhere in the state though. >> In the state. >> Yeah. They don't have to reside in Cook County. It's a state certification.
>> But they still need to follow Cook Countyy's subject regulations. >> Have license will travel. >> Oh, that's a good idea. >> We have contractors from other counties that come up here regularly. Commission. >> Um, and then I didn't catch this before,
but um, reading Jesse's kind of followup comments. >> Um, it says during septic training, this is under the public domain area because that's right, just caring about me, right? >> Uh, during septic training courses,
instructors frequently advised against allowing composting toilets altogether. So that right there gives me a little pause for concern because uh I think they're very important. Um and I
wish they were advocating for them rather than advising against. And so that gives me concern just about education and training at the state level and and the direction or the you
know the view where where things are going because um boy they're expensive when it's a full full system and um and that's a huge barrier and you know that we all know that. Um, so that's why I'm trying to find other solutions, but the
soils in Cook County make it hard for everything. And um, so I don't know >> if I may address that point. I just want to be really clear that our office is supportive of composting toilets. We don't blindly accept the state's opinion
on things. um these especially the patented designs, we have much better um confidence in the consistency of them fulfilling the role that they're supposed to do. So, I don't want this to be um any indication that we're headed
towards a direction of, you know, revoking those in the future. >> Yeah, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to imply the county was I was I was more concerned about the state's view on that. And so I was hoping that they would be looking at other alternatives too, but they're narrowing there. So
>> I think we just want the word choice, you know, that depending on your land and what you can afford and and all of that, that there's still a choice there. >> Commissioner Gamble. >> Yeah, thank you, Madam Chair. Uh again, appreciate the discussion and and I would agree with your point,
Commissioner Mills, and it it's something I was trying to affirm earlier that that we don't want regulatory agencies, be they at the local level or the state level or federal level, to take our options away if in fact our options meet
the intent, which is to protect the environment through what we know and how we do that. And we can refine that if we learn different through our lived experience. But um lobbyists uh have a reputation for sort
of driving you into a certain corral and uh we don't want to be found in a position where we're limiting people's freedoms, but we also have an obligation into the broader community to make sure that we're good stewards. So I I I would
agree wholeheartedly. Let's let's not be uh limiting options, but let's make sure that our options are well reasoned. >> Commissioner Sullivan. >> Madam Chair, I'd like to make a motion to adopt the proposed amendments to the county septic ordinance number 58.
>> I'll support. >> Any further questions or comments? All in favor? I I oppose. Same sign. Motion passes unanimously. Thank you very much for your time. >> Thank you for your work. >> So, human services approve the
appointment of Christopher Shrup as chief deputy investigator. >> Did you say human services? >> Mhm. >> Pardon? >> Did you say human services? You mean human resources? >> Human resources. >> Services. Yeah, you did. >> You do services. I do.
>> Yeah. This >> I only said it because when I had when I officed up outside of the the stairs um >> the stairwell, I can't think of words. Everyone would stop thinking that I was human services and they always wanted to either talk about their case or turn in
their Minnesota their uh um their paperwork, their renewal. I'm like, "Nope, brag." >> No, I didn't mean to give you a new title anymore. >> Um All right. Good morning. >> Morning. >> Um, so today I have one item for you.
Um, and it kind of goes off the tales of uh some of the stuff that occurred earlier this morning at the meeting. So Ben Hullberg took the oath of office. He will be serving um as the appointed sheriff to fill out the remainder of Sheriff Elias's term for 2026. So, with
all of the transitions that are occurring at the sheriff's department in the leadership roles, with um Deputy Halberg moving into the sheriff position, that will then leave a vacancy with our chief deputy role. Um, and per
state statute, we do need to request a board approval for the appointment of a chief deputy. um in talking with Deputy Hallberg um and his intentions in filling that role as soon to be sheriff,
he would like to uh request approval to appoint Deputy Christopher Shrup to that role effective uh May 9th of 2026 in the line of when those transitions occur. >> So before we begin the discussion on that, I'll read a little uh comment
that's been provided. Um, Chief Deputy Christopher Shup has served the Cook County Sheriff's Office with professionalism and steady leadership over his law enforcement career. After joining the department as a deputy in 2013, he has built a strong record of
field experience, public safety service, and operational support across patrol and department functions. Chief Deputy Shrup has recognized uh for his commitment to public safety and dedication to supporting other deputies
in the field while helping ensure the sheriff's office continues to meet the evolving needs of the community. In his new role as chief deputy, he will help oversee daily operations of the sheriff's office, supporting patrol,
correction, coordination, inter agency response efforts across Cook County. He has contributed to maintaining consistent service delivery in our geographical, large, and diverse uh county where deputies routinely
support emergency response, backcountry operations, and mutual aid with partner agencies. Gives us a little background on him. I'll open it up for discussion. Commissioner Gamble. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Allison, maybe
for the community, you could explain our policy in human resources relative to taking leaves of absence and still retaining position to be able to be reinstated. In other words, if if somebody is reading
our packet, uh they might not understand this that they haven't had previous experience. So just saying what is the provision that we have so that when these changes are made like that it is supported by our policy. >> Right? That's a great question. And typically, we only see these requests of
leave of absence in the sheriff's department given the um the kind of number of potentially appointed positions and the the the everchanging parts and the fact that the
county sheriff is an elected position. And there could be movement where if someone is not reelected, that then would uh mean the sheriff, both the sheriff and the chief deputy because the chief deputy is appointed by the sheriff would then kind of no longer have a
position. So, the leaves of absence um would allow them to move back if there's a role for them, if there's an opening, um would be able to revert them back into a position they previously held, like a deputy position, and therefore retain employment with with the county
at no fault of their own if they're not reelected. We just don't want to say that they're no longer hired. Um, so with uh I can't remember the specific state statute, but there is a specific state statute that we reference when a count when a sheriff is appointed or
elected to the position because the state statute actually protects them in requesting that leave of absence to return to the former position again because of that elected status and that may change. The chief deputy role is not covered by that state statute. However,
we recognize the similarities with providing that opportunity to retain them as quality staff if if they're not reappointed to a term. So, we have included that in um similar language without the specific state statute
reference for our chief deputy positions and and county attorney Peterson is so quick. Um it's state statute 3.088. >> Thank you. >> Yes. too many numbers to remember off the top of the head. So, >> and madam chair, if I can add to that
too, this is a practice that's used throughout the state with a variety of different sheriff's offices. >> Commissioner Salvin. >> Madam Chair, I'd like to make a motion to approve the appointment and promotion of Chris Shreup as chief deputy
investigator. >> Support. >> Any further questions or comments? >> All in favor? I oppose. Same sign. Motion passes unanimously. >> Great. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Moving on to item 12, administrator
updates. Thank you, Madam Chair. I just have a few um brief updates. The first one is that construction continues to go well on our two um capital projects. The transfer station in Grand Marray as well as our law enforcement um center. We're in the process of pouring concrete at
both locations and Brooke has assured me that things are moving uh forward very well. So, that's great news. Um, I would also like to thank Commissioner Sullivan and Engineer Hos for testifying before the transportation committee. Um, and
Senator Hoschild. Um, I believe that was on the 22nd while I was out of the office last week. Um, and they did an excellent job. So, just wanted to make sure the community is aware um that we continue to move forward with advocating for funding at the legislature. Um and I
will keep the board apprised of any information that that we receive as we move forward. The last um update is that we have our emergency services conference this week. It's on Friday and Saturday. Um and this is our 34th annual
conference. Um registration is still open. So if anyone is interested in attending some of the key topics are around uh firewise information and resources, suicide mental health training, tribal county coast guard public health information regarding um
988 the Minnesota air rescue team and armed radio training as well. So a lot of great topics. So I encourage anyone to attend if you're available. That's what I have for today. Okay. Thank you. So, we'll move on then to commissioner
meetings and updates. Um, I will go ahead and start um with an unusual situation that I had before me this week. I think you know in January we say we're going to be part of a board or commission and we assign each other and we know what's happening. Well, along
the way, something pops up, and this is something that popped up this week um from Superintendent Lynholm and Commissioner Sullivan for my attention to perhaps attend a meeting on the Iron Range. So, I discussed it with Brady and he said it's important to know what's
going on because we do receive several hundred,000 from range um mining. And so I attended the meeting in Chisum on Wednesday and it's a group called Rams, one range,
one voice and it was um a presentation by just a general background of what is happening in mining and I experienced that living in Grand Rapids um in the year of 80 to 82. My husband was a real estate appraiser and he was called over
to the range to appraise people's homes because they had to leave because they had no job. Right now there are over 600 laid off. Their uh unemployment is uh going to be over within a couple weeks. And another company, a drill company
that employed 77 people is now closing. So those people will be looking for jobs also. So the discussion um centered around be aware that the mining money
may not be there for each of the school districts, the counties in the future. It may not hit us next year, but I think it's something that we need to consider when we talk about our budgeting and what we receive. Um they had a panel
discussion with um Mike Jukovich um from the St. Louis County Commissioner, uh Pete Hudac, who is the mayor of Hibbing, and then um uh Nolles Schmidt who was a uh superintendent. And the panel discussion
really based around being aware in your county what could be happening. They had um and I won't throw out a lot of statistics, but the mining that's been sold, the millions of um tons that have been sold, for instance,
in 2025 was 12 20 million tons. They estimate 62 tons this year and 52 and 27. So, it's going down. and what's happening in many areas. Now, you think, well, it's so easy because we have Lake
Superior Harbor for them to send ore out, but there's competition with now trying to have a distribution in the uh area of lower Texas. So, that throws a wrench into sending out
the property that they have here. Um, also the fact that, well, it probably won't be in our lifetimes, but there will be a time when the minds will be depleted. >> So, that's way off in the future. We don't have to consider that now. But um
one of the things that um Commissioner Jukovich mentioned was the fact that counties need to dig into all kinds of resources to have um money and the fact that um we have land that probably could be brought back onto the tax roles and
of course our land is very limited because you know 92% of our land is already owned by the Fed and the state. So um you know um anything that we can do to look at possibility of a a
distribution being less can be on our radar when we talk about um our budgeting. So um I don't think Brady feels that we're going to lose anything right now for a couple of years, but um it's almost 300,000. So
that's a significant number. That's that's the direct money from production tax that offsets our levy. But we also get the >> tachinite credit, homestead credit. It's up over $500 per household. And then the uh school
gets a tremendous amount, threequarters of the funding for that uh addition back in 1998 97. Um, that's probably coming to an end fairly soon, but that's a big chunk. Uh,
Schroeder, that's what keeps their levy down. They get in the 60,000ish range. Um, and then we get some other smaller amounts um besides the um
the 300,000 production tax, but it's the rest of it isn't real significant. But then a lot of grants through uh my tripb so it's significant. >> It's like a 10ear cycle about >> 74 76 80 82
um 90. So it's about every 10 year cycle that this is that this is happening. But the mining industry is changing quite a bit now >> in the future. >> Mr. Mills, did you have a question? you
look concerned. >> Yeah, I was I was just trying to get a grasp of a dollar amount in the impacts and >> I don't know if it's direct uh a direct relationship. So, we can expect half of that if you're saying the tonnage is about half
>> um and when when how long that takes to >> right >> not get to us? >> Yeah. >> Um >> we don't know. >> No. >> Okay. >> No, >> not at this point. >> It was well attended. the room was folded. Um so you know where Iron World
is, this is a reclamation building behind that >> and Edah Rugavina opened the the meeting with um you know wise advice and just take this into consideration. That's the first of three meetings. So that was the
most convenient one for me to attend. And then also um I've been involved with um selection at the uh ARDC um building and um replacing a financial director
and also a director for ARDC. We've made choices. Now we just wait for acceptance. So we're hoping that that will work out. So I've been busy the last couple weeks. That's all I have. anyone else to share
their meetings or whatever else. >> Yeah. Um uh after our last updates, I've had um Tekkenite Harp or I'm sorry, there was a a mini t a
preview for Takenite Harbor's um kind of conclusion for that for that visioning process and um got a little sneak peek at two different kind of visions that were that were compiled by the group. I was a little surprised not
to see any potential educational and this is all on website. You can go to the EDA's website and then there's a tack harbor tab. So this was um the there's two different ones that seem fairly similar. One has a more of an emphasis on the mixed use and the other
one is more on the indust like industrial commercial side of things. Um, but just what I've heard throughout the community is that there is a desire for some kind of higher educational, whether it be a tech school, trade school, um, something. Um, but but that
wasn't part of that plan, but it was it was interesting to see and just hear a little bit about some of the restrictions. And of course, we don't own the land, right? It's we don't have any control over it. And there's new ownership, and we're not sure how that is going to affect things. So far, it's
been a very um amiable interaction. Um maybe a little bit distant just because of that lack of ownership and don't want to commit to anything. But I I try to remind myself and others that um
our involvement in this has it's been many years, maybe not for me as much, but um it's largely involved kind of this uh broader outreach because of the lack of um any developers stepping up or
any proposals coming to Minnesota Power. They've tried to find somebody and there haven't been any takes. Um so um keep that in mind just because uh if we do want something to happen it it might take public investment rather than just
a private developer or a partnership or something something creative. Um so that was before the EDA meeting and then at the EDA meeting. Um updates um and one that um caught Commissioner Gamble's ear was regarding the golf
course and the cost to hook up the irrigation to the um the Loots and Mountain line that comes from the lake is I think double of what was expected. And so the new plan is to go back to the
old intake, still repairing the system, um, because that's what's needed for the sale as a working system. And then if the new owner down the road decides we want to hook up into this other system, that's still an option, but that was
part of the discussion with the Papa River wershed district, too, is just allowing for that. So, um, I was pretty concerned initially, but it you know, I was um comforted to hear there's, you know, the plan B, of course. Um and then
also um you know, as time goes on here, um the EDA's operating funds or or funds for the golf course are diminishing, but if we get
into the golf season, then um before the uh right of first refusal is received, then there will be income. there will be revenue and that would be advantageous for the EDA and the community, but we also don't want to delay the sale by any
means. So, it's a bit of a dance. Um, and so I asked, are we going to are we going to make it? And >> it was a a careful yes. Um, but it's tight and um and we'll just see when that right at first refusal comes in and
and re-evaluate there. So, um, I think that was all I wanted to share for today. >> Has there been a date set for public comment for Tac Harbor? >> Let's see here. Um,
oh, yeah. Well, that's a good a good question. Good point. Um the there's also we're also filing for an extension for the grant just because we don't want to rush things at the end here, but that too will be a close call for for closing
out that grant. And so um looks like the 15th 16th was kind of the idea. Is that what you have too? Yeah. Yeah. Um but it's I don't have an invite yet. The EDA meeting is the 16th. Um, Stantex's hope
was to have a public meeting the 15th to get public input, compile that, and then present it, um, to the EDA on the 16th. Um, and then the grant needs to be completed, I believe, by the 30th. And
so, um, we're just going to ask for like a 30-day extension just so it's not, >> oh, >> not so compressed there. But >> that's of May because May 15th is a Friday in May. >> June, I'm sorry. June. >> June. June. Okay. Want to end? >> June 15th.
>> Oh, I wasn't aware of that. But um on our timeline there, it looks like there's a public meeting on Yeah. June. Maybe that's what that is. Um >> yep. At the Schroer Town Hall 47. >> June 15th. >> Yep. I didn't have an invite or that graphic. Thank you. >> Yeah. You're welcome. Can I crash the
party? >> I think all people It's public. Yeah. Yeah. So all looking for >> so we don't have to wait for an invite. No, no, no. I I'm sure it'll be broadcasted and the idea is to get as many eyes on the the visions as possible, right? Get as much feedback as
possible. And this is not like >> this isn't a master plan or anything like that, you know? This is all just conceptual and um >> so >> yeah. >> So that's Schroer Town Hall at 7 >> 4 to 7. >> 4 to 7. >> 4 to 7. Okay.
>> You know, our calendars get really busy, so >> Yeah. have a placeholder. Okay, good. Thanks on that. Anyone else? >> Commissioner Gamble. >> Yes. To Thank you, Madam Chair. To your
discussion about the meeting that you attended up in the Iron Range. Um, I'm wondering if if it would be advisable um when it comes to budgeting and having
things on the radar um that if if Brady knowing the financial implications, if the if the nature of the discussion of the points that were made could help Brady in making some projections so that
we as commissioners could look at what it would be if they're saying that that we're one-third of what production has been. >> If you can extrapolate that at that formula is consistent to what one-third would look like and the distribution of
those funds and the year that they're projecting that to be. It's so that it's on our radar and aware of the impacts of that. Uh so that would be helpful if we could do that. Brady doesn't have too much on his plate. Um then the other the
other thing as far as an update uh we did have um and Commissioner Sullivan had attended a statewide u government update relative to the budget uh a week or so ago and there was then AMC held a
federal government update on April 24th. uh two consultants uh that uh presented that um work in Washington and um one of the statements was made that uh
there's no question that the lens of smaller government is of concern to federal representatives. um the direction seems to be going to favoring grants to states rather than counties especially with transportation
which is you know something that that we've been looking at but it just being aware the other thing they pointed out in the house uh federal house 13.3% of all of the uh representatives are up for
reelection and in the senate 33.3% are up for reelection. action. um looking at what they are aware of based upon what uh proposals relative to the budget. Um, the Department of
Defense, uh, there's a proposed 42.2% increase, and I understand statistics are sometimes hard to swallow when you're communicating, but it it does give you a sense. If this were in a graph form, you could see where they're
prioritizing tax dollars be uh, spent. Department of Transportation, 62.2% increase in the budget. Environmental Protection Agency 52% cut. Uh Department
of Labor 25.9% reduction. This was proposed last year and it did not pass. Department of Education at 2.9% reduction. Department of Veterans Affair 7.7%
increase. So um a full report on that was going to be provided. But when we're making decisions having when we reference lens, if we look at things through the lens on the state level and we look at things through the lens on the federal level, it sort of helps us
know what are we seeing and it it is the awareness of these things much like what you referenced in the meeting that you attended Commissioner Sterling is that we need to have these things on our radar. So with a changing environment
then decisions we make need to be in the context of understanding and prioritizing and allocating the the resources that are dwindling in some areas and aware of resources that might be increasing in some areas but they're
restricted in nature and how they get applied. So anyway, >> what we haven't talked about weapons manufacturing at Tac Harbor, but that's >> Oh, yeah. Sounds like that might be the most viable.
>> Make them out of iron or >> anyone else? Commissioner Sullivan. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Um both Commissioner Gamble and I attended um the most recent HRA meeting and just uh talked a little bit about Norrisan which is over in the eastern side of Grand
Marray. Um 12 units will be available. The first two are going to go under construction. So that was really good to hear and that is one of those places where Ir money really helped um 350,000 for infrastructure. So um glad that we
have some funding available and um in our hands right now. Uh we also talked a little bit about the Duval property which is the old Tom Tobota area on 61. Um that has you know been delayed and one thing that was pointed out is that
there is funding they have already received that will go away if nothing happens there by January of 2028. Um, so we'll keep an eye on that. And then we talked about the housing trust fund. Kind of waiting to hear back um from the
county attorney's office, but that'll be another mechanism where we can uh gain funds and utilize those funds um to improve the opportunities for housing in Cook County. We had an airport advisory commission meeting and talked a little
bit about um budgeting looking at not only equipment um over you know the next 20 years. We only have four pieces of equipment. It's not quite like the highway department but how we want to approach that um and then also approach the capital improvement plan in light of
the master plan that's been approved by the FAA. So, we'll be spending a lot of time and I imagine that um Brady will be working with some of our members of our engineering firm as well as the airport manager to um look at that capital
improvement plan and make some tweaks and fine-tune that. We also talked about signage. If you have been out on Devil Track Road and gone up towards the airport, the airport signs are not legible. um they have been damaged um
quite severely by the extreme weather that they have. They were signs that were paid for by the FAA back in 2015 and 2018. And uh so we're looking at making smaller, more affordable signs, doing
them in-house by the county, and um just making sure that we get something that um can be read. uh Gunflint Ranger Station had their annual meeting um up the trail last Thursday and talked a little bit about
their construction on US Forest Service roads that is planned for uh this summer and also for the um prescribed burns that are going to be along the Gunflint Trail. They had a very very good turnout. I imagine that some of their
construction plans for roads are delayed because some of their roads have washed out in the last week uh since we had that meeting and so they're going to have a lot of additional work um to complete over at least the immediate future. Um and lastly AMC had their
solid waste work group which I'm a part of. We have made a decision to meet less frequently. We've been really working hard meeting monthly to try to um bring forward things through the environment and natural resources policy committee.
That is not a priority currently for the legislature. Um, so we are going to meet either quarterly or or maybe every couple of months, but continue with our work looking at e- batteries, e-waste, um, and ways that counties can work
together because there's a potential all landfills will be closed in Minnesota in the very near future and that's going to have a huge impact for us. Um, one real benefit of attending that group is I've become much more aware of grants that
are available through the MPCA. And so I'm going to be sked scheduling a meeting um with Dustin Hansen with Northshore Waste to talk about once all our improvements are made at the transfer station, what is the next step and what funds can we apply for or
grants can we apply for um to make sure that it's not all coming back to the taxpayers. So, we will be working on that. >> Okay. Thank you, Commissioner Mills. >> Um, I I was wondering if it could be appropriate or helpful if we had a
committee the whole um to dig in a little bit more with R and just mining tax. I don't know if Sister Thompson can give us some perspective or if we can learn more through that or if it's too soon and too reactionary, but I just, you know, realized I don't actually know
how I RB is funded exactly or what that mechanism is and what all of our fund mining uh dependencies are. Um that could be really helpful, but no emergency. I just thought it could be
>> Yeah, thank you to that point. I mean it any funny mechanism that we have to understand those in present context would be beneficial when you look at where money we talk about pilt often and we talk secure real rural schools that
came in and Brady had said we usually see that we're just waiting to find out and then it we did get word that it's coming in but um understanding those funding sources and and where they're they're at right now and and whether they'll be const constant ILRB. I think
that the uh the inception of that when there was monies that were designated and handled in the cities that legislators wanted to be able to take some of the revenues that were genered through generated through the mining up here and put them in a funding mechanism
that we could control for local things much like what happens in the cities maybe through the metropolitan council. And so, um, if you look at their structure and how those things are, uh, um, advocated for
in their distribution, um, Cook County, which is not a mining community per se, similar to the Iron Range area, gets more allocation than counties that have mines in their
backyards. And so when we see those dollars distributed, we are benefits of that. If you want to look historically at the amount of money that we've received from ILRB, it is amazing. That fund in its inception was intended to be, we talked
about having, you know, funding sources and reserve funds and things. If mining goes away, families that have made their livelihood off mining need to have something to fall back on. and that would be like their workman's comp. And so
the to the extent that we're getting monies that are there to protect families that lose their livelihood, that that's huge. But again, understanding understanding that and um I I've looked
at that relative to Superior National Golf Course. how much money have we seen that has come from my tripb and in talking to me we've had four grants that are significant and wanting to understand what the request was and what
the response was in regard to that request coming relative to the golf course anyway >> administrator trouble thank you madam chair I really like that idea of having this as a future cow agenda item um I think it might be best to wait until the
legislative session is done >> because we'll have some impacts potentially to PHS that then we could include >> um in in the formula. Um I also think that having that information can help to inform how we address fund balance in the future. So, as we look at the loan
policy that I had mentioned, Brady and I will be working on updating um I mentioned earlier and then just as we have discussions around fund balance, I think having having that um that view of what the future is is bringing us I think would be helpful. So, I I think
that's a great idea. I would just recommend that we look at perhaps June or July for that discussion >> and we could work together on um contacting Commissioner Rukavina and then she would know who would be the most appropriate person that would come. >> Okay,
>> Commissioner Sullivan. >> Uh thank you, Madam Chair. Just um to kind of reiterate, you know, we don't have an active mine, but we have had mining in Cook County. That's why we're part of the Tachinite tax relief area. And the purpose of the funding is to
help diversify the economy. And that is still something that we need here in Cook County as well as other parts of um the ITR area which is about 13,000 square miles. It's huge. But that is still their primary mission and
certainly we can hope to benefit from that in the future. >> Okay. So, moving on just for upcoming meetings and events, we have our budget and facility advisory committee this afternoon at 3:00. Our next uh board
meeting will be Tuesday, May 12th. Also in the packet, we have the HR board report on staffing changes and then we have the lodging tax comparison through February. And before I adjourn, um we have
elections coming up and um they do ask that candidates declare their choices. We have um three districts um of candidates in um our board here. Um we have to declare starting u May 19th
through June >> second >> second. So, it's a very short time and we're waiting for the window to get open so that people can have early voting, too. So, anyway, I will ask each of the districts who are up for uh reelection
unless Brady had something to add. No. Okay. Um each of the districts to declare your your choices. So, I'll start with Commissioner Mills. >> I'm I'm planning on running again. Okay. >> Commissioner White.
I'm on I'm going for it. Okay. >> And um I have decided that after 15 years of public service I will not be reupping as commissioner. >> I feel that um three years as supervisor
and I sat over there many times. When I became a supervisor, I thought, well, this isn't too hard because we we take care of small, you know, township >> events and then we had the proposal of we need to enlarge and make our fire
hall and community center bigger. So, I spent the whole time working on that, which really prepared me for bigger decisions here. So, that was enjoyable, too. So, I think it's time to wind down and and do other things. So, >> that's
>> Yeah. very big news and um >> I don't I I respect your decision of course but makes me a little nervous just uh the transitions right with >> I'm hoping for you know good candidates um with a new eye on looking at things
and a perspective of uh the working with the whole group as as I have enjoyed working with you because it doesn't take one it takes five >> to decide and along with their administrator and our um attorney and
Brady. Um there's a lot of interesting um choices have been made in the past and we move forward with a lot of you know work with capital improvement and and all those topics. So that person will I know do well because you'll
welcome them. >> That's a bold statement >> especially you know. We'll see. >> There being no other further business, we are adjourned. >> It's the restroom. Yeah, you won't have
a >> free >> the budget