HomeMy WebLinkAboutBoard of Commissioners - Minutes - 10/08/2024Board of Commissioners' Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024
OTTER TAIL COUNTY -MINNESOTA
BOARD OF CO MM ISSIONERS' MINUTES
Government Services Center, Commissioners' Room & Via Livestream
515 West Fir Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN
October 8, 2024 I 8:30 a.m.
CALL TO ORDER
The Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners convened at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at the
Government Services Center in Fergus Falls, MN. Commissioners Kurt Mortenson, Chair; Lee Rogness, Vice
Chair; Wayne Johnson, Dan Bucholz, and Bob Lahman were present.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Chair Mortenson called for approval of the Board Agenda. Motion by Johnson, second by Rogness and
unanimously carried to approve the Board of Commissioners' agenda of October 8, 2024, with the following
addition:
Admin/Operations Committee: AMC District Meeting
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Lahman, second by Bucholz and unanimously carried to approve the consent agenda items as
presented:
1. September 24, 2024, Board of Commissioners' Meeting Minutes
2. Warrants/Bills for October 8, 2024 (Exhibit A)
3. Human Services Warrants/Bills for October 8, 2024 (Exhibit A)
4. Approval of the temporary On-Sale Application for Outstate Brewing Company for an
event at Mother Goose & Beans on October 12, 2024.
5. Approval of the temporary On-Sale Application for Outstate Brewing Company for an
event at Mother Goose & Beans, October 19, 2024.
6. Approval of the Issuance of an Otter Tail County Purchasing Card with a 30-day limit of
$2,500 to Brandie Hanson, Chief Deputy Assessor, as requested by County Assessor
Heather Jacobson.
7. Organics Collection Contract Renewal
FINAL PLAT EXTENSION -ADELMAN FIRST ADDITION
Motion by Lahman, second by Bucholz and motion carried with Johnson abstaining to approve a 12-month
Final Plat extension for the Preliminary Plat titled "Adelman First Subdivision" owned by Scott Adelman located
on the West side of Poss Beach Road, Section 31, Dunn Township, Lizzie Lake (56-760), RD.
OUT-OF-STATE TRAVEL
Motion by Rogness, second by Johnson and unanimously carried to approve out-of-state travel for Land and
Resource Management Director Chris LeClair to travel to Spokane, Washington from October 19-24, 2024 to
attend the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association Annual Conference.
Page 1 of 12 ~ 9!.J,!=~N!~~~
CLOSED SESSION
Board of Commissioners' Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024
At 8:37 a.m., Chair Mortenson declared the Board of Commissioners meeting closed to the public for
discussion regarding labor negotiations authorized under Minnesota Statute §13D.03, Subd. 1(b). Present in
the room were Commissioners Kurt Mortenson, Lee Rogness, Dan Bucholz, Wayne Johnson and Bob
Lahman, County Administrator Nicole Hansen, County Attorney Michelle Eldien, Assistant Human Resources
Director Stephanie Retzlaff, County Board Secretary Hannah Anderson and Labor Attorney Josh Heggem
with Pemberton Law Firm. The closed session ended at 8:56 a.m.
RECESS & RECONVENE
At 8:56 a.m., the Board of Commissioners recessed for a short break. The Board of Commissioners meeting
was reconvened at 9:10 a.m.
ESGR SEVEN SEALS AWARD
The Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) awarded Otter Tail County with the Seven Seals
Award in recognition of its exceptional support for service members of the Guard and Reserve. This award
acknowledges the County's commitment to fostering a supportive work environment for military personnel and
their families.
RECESS & RECONVENE
At 9:22 a.m., Chair Mortenson declared the meeting of the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners
recessed for a short break. The Board of Commissioners meeting was reconvened at 9~32 a.m.
MECHANICS ASSISTANT
Motion by Rogness, second by Lahman and unanimously carried to approve the addition of a 1.0 full-time
equivalent (FTE) Mechanic's Assistant position to the compensation structure to improve efficiencies of the
fleet maintenance team. This position is included in the 2024 budget.
APPOINTMENT OF COUNTY ASSESSOR
OTTER TAIL COUNTY RESOLUTION NO. 2024-79
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statute Section 273.061 requires the appointment of a County Assessor by the Board
of County Commissioners; and
WHEREAS, Heather Jacobson was appointed the Otter Tail County Assessor on or about August 22, 2023;
and
WHEREAS, at this time, Heather Jacobson is reappointed as the County Assessor for a four-year-term which
begins on January 1, 2025; and
WHEREAS, this reappointment is subject to approval by the Minnesota Department of Revenue.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, Heather Jacobson is appointed to a four-year-term as the Otter
Tail County Assessor effective January 1, 2025 for a four-year-term.
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was introduced by Commissioner Rogness, duly
seconded by Commissioner Bucholz and, after discussion thereof and upon vote being taken thereon, passed
unanimously.
Page 2 of 12
Board of Commissioners' Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024
Adopted at Fergus Falls, MN this 8th day of October 2024.
OTTER TAIL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Dated: October 22, 2024
Attest: J i' ta<_, f._//j,,/.JW
Kurt Mortenson, Board of Commissioners Chair Nicole Hansen, Clerk
PUBLIC HEARING DATE FOR CANNABIS & LOWER-POTENCY BUSINESS ORDINANCE
Motion by Johnson, second by Lahman and unanimously carried to set a Public Hearing regarding the
Cannabis & Lower-Potency Business Ordinance on November 20, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in the Otter Tail Lake
Room at the Government Services Center (GSC) in Fergus Falls, MN.
PET AND ANIMAL POLICY
County Administrator Nicole Hansen' reviewed the Pet and Animal Policy for Otter Tail County Office Buildings
that was adopted January 6, 2004. The policy was created to provide for a productive and safe work
environment for employees, a safe and healthy environment for clients, visitors, and others, and to reduce
unnecessary expense. Hansen noted that only trained and identified service animals that are properly leashed
or harnessed are allowed in Otter Tail County buildings. The policy will be available on the County website
and signage posted at building entrances.
PROPERTY SEARCH -ASH RECYCLING
Motion by Bucholz, second by Rogness and unanimously carried to authorize the Solid Waste Department to
negotiate a potential purchase agreement for property to be used for ash recycling and other Department
programs as presented by Solid Waste Director Chris Mcconn. The purchase agreement would be contingent
on final Board approval.
PUBLIC HEARING DATE FOR SOLID WASTE PARCEL FEE INCREASE
Motion by Johnson, second by Lahman and unanimously carried to set a Public Hearing regarding the Solid
Waste Parcel Fee Increase on November 19, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. in the Otter Tail Lake Room at the
Government Services Center during the regularly scheduled Board of Commissioners Meeting.
MANUFACTURING MONTH PROCLAMATION
OTTER TAIL COUNTY RESOLUTION NO. 2024-76
WHEREAS, The manufacturing industry is a critically important part of Minnesota's and Otter Tail County's
diverse economy; and
WHEREAS, Manufacturing contributed $57.2 billion to Minnesota's economy in 2023, representing 12% of the
state's gross domestic product; and
WHEREAS, Manufactured exports brought $22.5 billion into the Minnesota economy in 2023; and
WHEREAS, Workers took home $231.6 million in wages from Otter Tail County manufacturing jobs in 2023,
the largest total payroll among private sector industries; and
Page 3 of 12
Board of Commissioners' Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024
WHEREAS, Manufacturing in Otter Tail County pays an average annual wage of $58,885, which is 18% higher
than the state's overall average private sector wage; and
WHEREAS, Manufacturing provides more than 3,900 highly skilled, well-paying jobs, which significantly
contribute to Otter Tail County's high standard of living and economic vitality; and
WHEREAS, There are roughly 86 manufacturing companies in Otter Tail County, making a wide range of
products that improve life, create solutions and bring joy here in Minnesota and around the world.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Board of Commissioners, do hereby proclaim the month of October 2024 shall be
observed as: MANUFACTURING MONTH in Otter Tail County.
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was introduced by Commissioner Johnson, duly
seconded by Commissioner Rogness and, after discussion thereof and upon vote being taken thereon, passed
unanimously.
Adopted at Fergus Falls, MN this 8th day of October 2024.
OTTER TAIL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
By:~Y,,_____________/J_._f11:::t::=::_ _____ _
Kurt Mortenson, Board of Commissioners Chair
Dated: October 22, 2024
Attest: ~ / • td.-L /-J(}/7,s&i --~~---------Nico I e Hansen, Clerk
PUBLIC HEARING
At 10:05 a.m., Chair Mortenson opened the Public Hearing regarding Property Tax Abatements Related to
the Single-Family Tax Rebate Program. Chair Mortenson asked for comments from the public and no
comments were received. Community Development Director Amy Baldwin noted that the department has
started communications with community partners conveying that applications are due by the end of the
calendar year. The Public Hearing was closed at 10:06 a.m.
RECESS & RECONVENE
At 10:07 a.m., Chair Mortenson declared the meeting of the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners
recessed for a short break. The Board of Commissioners meeting was reconvened at 10:14 a.m.
DWI COURT COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT
Motion by Johnson, second by Rogness and unanimously carried to authorize appropriate County Officials'
signatures on the cooperative agreement between Otter Tail County Probation and Otter Tail County DWI
Treatment Court for the DWI Court program that is designed to intervene in the lifestyles of offenders with
substance use disorders and to improve public safety.
DRUG COURT COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT
Motion by Johnson, second by Rogness and unanimously carried to authorize appropriate County Officials'
signatures on the cooperative agreement between Otter Tail County Probation and the Otter Tail County Adult
Drug Treatment Court for the Adult Drug Treatment Court program that is designed to intervene in the lifestyles
of offenders with substance use disorders and to improve public safety.
Page 4 of 12
Board of Commissioners' Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF AGREEMENT
OTTER TAIL COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
OTTER TAIL COUNTY RESOLUTION NO. 2024-77
BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Otter Tail County Sheriff's Office enter into a grant agreement with the
Minnesota Department of Public Safety, for traffic safety enforcement projects during the period from October
1st, 2024, through September 30, 2025.
The Otter Tail County Sheriff's Office is hereby authorized to execute such agreements and amendments as
are necessary to implement the project on behalf of the Otter Tail County Sheriff's Office and to be the fiscal
agent and administer the grant.
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was introduced by Commissioner Johnson, duly
seconded by Commissioner Lahman and, after discussion thereof and upon vote being taken thereon, passed
unanimously.
Adopted at Fergus Falls, MN this 8th day of October 2024.
OTTER TAIL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
By: -----L=-/4::.::!........!Ltt .,.____:tJ'tt...:.......::~=~--
Kurt Mortenson, Board of Commissioners Chair
Dated: October 22, 2024
Attest: J-.-i C {JU_, J-/-wy:JL
Nicole Hansen, Clerk
RECESS & RECONVENE
At 10:30 a.m., Chair Mortenson declared the meeting of the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners
recessed for a short break. The Board of Commissioners meeting was reconvened at 10:39 a.m.
AWARD RECOMMENDATION AND CONTRACTS & BONDS
Motion by Lahman, second by Johnson and unanimously carried to award S.P. 056-619-015 & Etc. MN Project
No. STBG-BFP 5624(272) to John Riley Construction, Inc. of Morris, MN with the low bid amount of
$1,461,950.50 and to authorize appropriate County Officials' signatures to execute the contract between Otter
Tail County and John Riley Construction, Inc. of Morris, MN for S.P. 056-619-015 & Etc. MN Project No.
STBG-BFP. 5624(272).
AWARD RECOMMENDATION AND CONTRACTS & BONDS
Motion by Lahman, second by Rogness and motion carried with Bucholz abstaining to award CP 4186-304
Perham Truck Garage to Hammers Construction, Inc. of Perham, MN with the low bid amount of
$3,114,000.00 and to authorize appropriate County Officials' signatures to execute the contract between Otter
Tail County and Hammers Construction, Inc. of Perham, MN for CP 4186-304 Perham Truck Garage.
COUNTY STATE AID HIGHWAY 3 EASEMENT THROUGH MAPLEWOOD STATE PARK
OTTER TAIL COUNTY RESOLUTION NO. 2024-78
WHEREAS, County Road 41 was established in 1882 by an official County Board Road order; and
WHEREAS, County Road 41 was later renamed County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 3, which was constructed
in 1959 as part of County Project Number 59:03 and an apparent error resulted in the as-built highway location
differing from the platted highway centerline; and
Page 5 of 12
Board of Commissioners' Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024
WHEREAS, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) acquired the underlying land rights through
Sections 20 & 21 in Maplewood Township between 1972 and 1987 for the purpose of establishing Maplewood
State Park; and
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statute 160.05 provides that Otter Tail County and the public are entitled to continued
use of the width of actual use for this portion of CSAH 3 because this road was used and kept in repair and
worked for more than six years prior to the state's acquisition of this land; and
WHEREAS, the enclosed certificate of survey prepared by Houston Engineering, Inc. documents the width of
actual use.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners authorizes the
County Engineer to formalize the county's road rights through Maplewood State Park in accordance with
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) standard procedures for highway easements across DNR
lands.
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was introduced by Commissioner Johnson, duly
seconded by Commissioner Rogness and, after discussion thereof and upon vote being taken thereon, passed
unanimously.
Adopted at Fergus Falls, MN this 8th day of October 2024.
OTTER TAIL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Dated: October 22, 2024
By: -----+-/_f4n-'-'--, _,__Yh:±==--=-c...,.._ ___ _
Kurt Mortenson, Board of Commissioners Chair Nicole Hansen, Clerk
REQUEST FOR COMMUTING WITH COUNTY VEHICLES
Motion by Bucholz, second by Lahman and unanimously carried to authorize Highway Department Group
Leaders, as specified, to use county vehicles for commuting during the winter months for checking road
conditions. Commuting is beneficial to the County and the employee to save time by heading directly to the
areas where attention is needed. Heading to the shop or office first to get a county vehicle can add another 1-
2 hours to the employee's day which can lead to 18-hour days, raising a safety concern for adequate rest and
time at home.
RECESS & RECONVENE
At 10:47 a.m., Chair Mortenson declared the meeting of the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners
recessed for a short break. The Board of Commissioners meeting was reconvened at 10:50 a.m.
LEGISLATIVE REPRESENTATION
Motion by Rogness, second by Bucholz and unanimously carried to authorize appropriate County Officials'
signatures to execute an agreement between Otter Tail County and Psick Capitol Solutions, Inc. to provide
legislative representation for Otter Tail County for the 2025-2026 legislative biennium, beginning January 1,
2025 through December 31, 2026.
Page 6 of 12
Board of Commissioners' Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024
ADJOURNMENT
At 10:58 a.m., Chair Mortenson declared the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners meeting adjourned
with a closed session to follow. The next regular Board meeting is scheduled at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October
22, 2024, at the Government Services Center in Fergus Falls and via livestream.
CLOSED SESSION
At 10:58 a.m., Chair Mortenson declared the Board of Commissioners meeting closed to the public. The closed
session was authorized under Minnesota Statute §13D.05, Subd. 3(c)(3) to discuss the sale/purchase of
property at 1174 Western Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN. Present in the room were Commissioners Kurt
Mortenson, Lee Rogness, Dan Bucholz, Wayne Johnson, and Bob Lahman, County Administrator Nicole
Hansen, County Attorney Michelle Eldien, Deputy Administrator Nick Leonard, Community Development
Director Amy Baldwin, and County Board Secretary Hannah Anderson. The closed session ended at 11 :18
a.m.
OTTER TAIL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Dated: October 22, 2024
By: _A .......... rw-~11 ........... ;k ________ "--i....=-_-~---Attest: L\-1 • f!-OLL, 4~ -------""-----'---------
Kurt Mortenson, Board of Commissioners Chair Nico I e Hansen, Clerk
Page 7 of 12
Page 8 of 12
Vendor Name
A&A RECYCLING LLC
ACME TOOLS
ACTIVE911 INC
ALBANY RECYCLING CENTER
ALEX RUBBISH & RECYCLING INC
ALLEN'S AUTO BODY & TOWING
ALVSTAD & ASSOCIATES
AMAZON CAPITAL SERVICES INC
AMERICAN WELDING & GAS INC
AMOR EXCAVATING INC
ANDERSONfTROY
ARVIG
ASSOCIATfON OF MN COUNT1ES
AUTO VALUE FERGUS FALLS
AVERY, ATTORNEY AT LAW/JILL
AVT FERGUS FALLS
AXON ENTERPRISE INC
BAN-KOE SYSTEMS INC
BARR ENGINEERING CO
BATTERIES PLUS BULBS
BEN HOLZER UNLIMITED WATER LLC
BEYERBOOYSHOPINC
BJERKE/SCOTT
BLACK/KATIE
BRANDNER/COLE
BRIAN"S REPAIR INC
BURRISJWARREN
CARLBLOMIOENNIS
CASS SOIL & WA1ER CONSERVATION DI!
COLUMN SOFlWARE PBC
COMMAND CENTRAL LlC
COMMISSIONER Of TRANSPORTATION
COOPER'S OFFICE SUPPLY INC
CREATED BY JT
CREIGH/SAM
CUWGAN OF WADENA
CUMMINS SALES & SERVICE
DACOTAH PAPER CO
DAHUCOLT
DAtLEY ELECTRIC llC
ECKHARDT/KIMBERLY
EISCHENS/NA THAN
Board of Commissioners' Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024 (Exhibit A}
Amount
690.00
635.00
8,569.60
1,933.04
632.00
130.00
880a00
3,789.79
42.64
6,250,00
26.09
309,769.44
2,780.00
416.12
2,033.40
323.34
30.35
1,837.00
1,660.50
134.78
54.00
175.00
317.48
16.50
45.50
1,281.32
250.00
126.85
6,971.52
37.52
500.00
1,591.34
68.41
180.00
236.51
13.42
1,383.55
995.53
265.32
307.86
2,029.45
27.19
Page 9 of 12
Vendor Name
ELECTION SYSTEMS & SOFlWARE LLC
ERICA MARTIN COMPANY INC
EVER GREEN LAWNS
FARGO FREIGHTLINER
FELLBAUM/KEVIN
FELLING TRAILERS JNC
FERGUS FALLS DAILY JOURNAL
FERGUS FALLS HRA
FERGUS FALLS/CITY OF
FERGUS HOME & HARDWARE INC
FERGUS POWER PUMP INC
FERGUS TIRE CENTER INC
FIDlAR TECHNOLOGIES INC
FORMANEK/ROBERT
FOSTER/KRYSTEN
GAU.AGHER BENEFIT SERVtCES INC
GALLSLLC
GAUDETTE/SCOTT
GOERDT/SARAH D
GOPHERSTATEONECALL
GRAINGER INC
GRIEGERNvlLLIAM
HARTHUN/TRENT
HOUSTON ENGINEERING INC
INNOVATIVE OFFICE SOLUTIONS lLC
INTERSTATE ENGINEERrNG INC
JAKE'S JOHNS LLC
JK SPORTS INC
JOHNSONfDENA
JOHNSONfKENT
JORGENSON/KURT
KILLIAN/BRADY
KIMBALL MIDWEST
KRESS/JEFF
LAKE REGION ELECTRIC COOP
LAKE REGION HEALTHCARE
LAKESCOUNTRYSERVICECOOPERATIV
LARRY OTT INC
LARSON/l YNN
LAWSON PRODUCTS INC
LEADERS DISTRIBUTING
LEIGHTON MEDIA -DETROIT LAKES
Board of Commissioners' Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024 (Exhibit A)
Amount
12,640.11
500.00
425.00
GS.99
30.15
401.10
4,266.57
1,676.00
17.00
9.99
28,177.81
864.15
8,197.77
162.14
336.53
400.00
46,254.62
136.90
50.38
41.85
93.88
65.66
28.00
17,546.25
609.18
2,045.46
310.00
20.00
115.46
285.42
139.99
20.07
481.52
237.85
500.00
2,217.53
70.00
9,750.00
142.71
1,337.32
271.60
110.00
Page 10 of 12
Vendor Name
LEIGHTON MEDIA-FERGUS FALLS
LEROY MOTOR.SPORTS LLC
LIBERTY BUSINESS SYSTEMS INC
LIEN/ERIC
LOCATORS & SUPPLIES INC
LOE/DORIS
~R SIGN CO INC
MARCO TECHNOLOGIES LLC
MARCO TECHNOLOGIES LLC
MARTIN/VALERIE
MCIT
MINNESOTA MOTOR COMPANY
MINNKOTA ENVIRO SERVICES INC
MN STATE COMMUNITY & TECHNICAL CC
MN STATE COMMUNITY & TECHNICAL CC
MNCCCLOCKBOX
NAPA CENTRAL
NATURE'S CALL SEPTIC SERVICE INC
Nfl_SON AUTO CENTER INC
NEWVILLE/HEATHER
NILSONJBRET
NORDSTROI\NKRIS
NORTH CENTRAL INC
NORTHLAND AREA SERVICES
OFFICE OF MNIT SERVJCES
OLSON OIL CO INC
OTTER TAIL CO TREASURER
PARK REGION CO OP
PARKERS PRAIRIE INDEPENDENT LLCffi
PAW PUBLICATIONS LLC
PEMBERTON LAW PLLP
PERHAM STEEL & WELDING
PETERSONJJOEL
PHILLIPPI/DR JAY
PLUNKETTS VARMENT GU.ARD
PRECISE MRM LLC
QUADIENT FINANCE USA INC
QUICK'S NAPA AUTO PARTS
QUINUVAN & HUGHES PA
RADZWILVHANNAH
RDO EQUIPMENT CO
REGENTS Of THE UNIVERSITY Of MN
Board of Commissioners' Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024 (Exhibit A)
Amount
2,403.50
500.92
766.20
28.99
615.13
214.40
3,077.19
95,835.99
975.22
116.00
73.00
568.57
70.00
3,062.87
10,000.00
80.00
66.40
550.00
62,898.00
1,500.00
32227
143.38
19,124.62
30,350.00
1.056.30
884.70
2,102.88
157.16
5,78254
198.00
1,869.50
112.00
201.00
475,00
224.00
2.360.00
5TI.93
63.20
3,410.00
83,08
54725
12,990.62
Page 11 of 12
Vendor Name
RICE/JOHN
RIPLEY/DAVID
ROCK LEAF WATER ENVIRONMENTAL LL
RODER/BETSY
ROLUE/WILUAM
ROSENTHAUGREGORY
SALATHE/KELVIN
SAL VERSO.\JJBRENT
SAMUELSONJHEIDJ
SANITATION PRODUCTS INC
SCHORNACK/DAVID
SCHWANTZ/CHRISTOPHER
SHERWIN WILLIAMS
SKOUGARDJKENNADY
STEEVES/BERNARD A
STEINSINC
STIGMANIRYAN
SUMMIT FOOD SERVICE LLC
SWANSON/RILEY
SWANSTON EQUIPMENT CORP
T &KTIRES
TAFT STETTINIUS & HOLLISTER LlP
THIS WEEKS SHOPPING NEWS
THOMSON REUTERS-VIJEST
THRIFTY WHITE PHARMACY
TRI-STATE PUMP&. CONTROL
TSCHIDA/CRAIG
TYLER TECHNOLOGIES INC
ULINE
UlSCHMID!SUSAN
UNLIMITED AUTOGLASS INC
VANSTEENBURG/JEFFREY
VEOLIA ES TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS LLC
VESTIS
VICTOR LUNDEEN COMPANY
WAASDORPJKA YLEE
WADENA ASPHALT INC
WAGNERFTERRY
WALLWORK TRUCK CENTER
WALVATNE/DOUGLAS
WIDSETH SMITH NOL TING & ASSOCL.l\TE!
'NM CORPORATE SERVICES JNC
WSB & ASSOCIATES INC
Final Total:
Board of Commissioners' Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024 (Exhibit A)
Amount
328.30
116.80
4,035.00
180.00
176.88
177.55
179.56
16.47
'l.87.20
584.79
287.20
140.03
341.61
64.65
126.85
4,759.04
24723
7,72029
26.09
73.TT
225.00
4,566.00
174.60
4,191.13
15.00
1,450.00
85.76
740.00
1,478.74
215.88
927.17
118.14
16,51524
258'67
63.84
119.46
48,180.00
61.08
442.09
2,625.00
26,898.43
26.382.93
1,000.00
923,550.20
Page 12 of 12
Vendor Name
AMAZON CAPITAL SERVICES INC
ASL INTERPRETING SERVICES INC
FERGUS TIRE CENTER INC
FOREMAN/MICHEUE
LAKES COUNTRY SERVICE COOPERATIV
MINNESOTA MONITORING INC
MINNESOTA MOTOR COMPANY
MINNKOTA ENVIRO SERV1CES INC
MN DEPT OF HUMAN SERVICES
MSSA
OLSON/ALIXANDRA
OTTER TAIL 00 SHERIFF
POTIER!TARA
PREMIER BIOTECH INC
QUALITY TOYOTA
RIDGEWAY & ~SOCIATES
SPANGLER/LISA
WADENA CO SHERIFF
Final Total:
Board of Commissioners' Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024 (Exhibit A)
Amount
282.40
138.00
27.00
29.89
15,529.00
80.00
22327
41.30
258,83124
560.00
2627
90.00
45.00
7,305,00
683.81
8,400.00
73.96
75.00
292,441.14
Drainage Authority Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024
OTTER TAIL COUNTY -MINNESOTA
DRAINAGE AUTHORITY MIN UTES
Government Services Center, Commissioners' Room & Via Livestream
515 West Fir Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN
October 8, 2024112:25 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER
The Otter Tail County Drainage Authority convened at 12:25 p.m. Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at the
Government Services Center in Fergus Falls, MN. Commissioners Kurt Mortenson, Chair; Lee Rogness, Vice
Chair; Wayne Johnson, Dan Bucholz, and Bob Lahman were present.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA & CONSENT AGENDA
Chair Mortenson called for joint approval of the Drainage Authority Agenda and Consent Agenda. Motion by
Lahman, second by Bucholz and unanimously carried to approve the Drainage Authority Agenda of October
8, 2024 and the Consent Agenda of October 8, 2024 as follows:
1. September 24, 2024, Drainage Authority Meeting Minutes
RECONVENE DITCH 13 PUBLIC HEARING
Drainage Inspector Colby Palmersheim submitted the final reports, with amendments after viewers
reexamined three (3) properties, for the Redetermination of Benefits for County Ditch 13.
At 12:33 p.m., Chair Mortenson reconvened the Public Hearing regarding Ditch 13 Redetermination of
Benefits. This Public Hearing is continued from the original hearing on July 15, 2024. Chair Mortenson asked
for comments from the public and no comments were received. The Public Hearing was closed at 12:34 p.m.
Drainage Inspector Colby Palmersheim presented the Final Findings and Order Approving the
Redetermination of Benefits, Acquiring Grass Buffer, Confirming Damages, and Directing Payment for County
Ditch 13. Palmersheim reported the final Ditch 13 benefit value of $247,036.00 with a benefit area of 1,414
acres and damage payments of $671 .69 after the secondary reviews were applied . Motion by Rogness,
second by Bucholz to adopt the Final Findings and Order Approving the Redetermination of Benefits for Ditch
13. After discussion thereof, and upon vote being taken thereon, the motion passed on a roll call vote as
follows:
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS YEA NAY ABSENT ABSTAIN
Bob Lahman X
Kurt Mortenson X
Dan Bucholz X
Lee Rogness X
Wayne Johnson X
Page 1 of 7
Drainage Authority Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024
RECONVENE DITCH 19 PUBLIC HEARING
Drainage Inspector Colby Palmersheim submitted the final reports for the Redetermination of Benefits for
County Ditch 19.
At 12:37 p.m., Chair Mortenson reconvened the Public Hearing regarding Ditch 13 Redetermination of
Benefits. This Public Hearing is continued from the original hearing on July 15, 2024. Chair Mortenson asked
for comments from the public and no comments were received. The Public Hearing was closed at 12:39 p.m.
Drainage Inspector Colby Palmersheim presented the Final Findings and Order Approving the
Redetermination of Benefits, Acquiring Grass Buffer, Confirming Damages, and Directing Payment for County
Ditch 19. Palmersheim reported the final Ditch 19 benefit value of $951,407.00 with a benefit area of 3,233
acres and damage payments of $1,640.60. Motion by Lahman, second by Bucholz to adopt the Final Findings
and Order Approving the Redetermination of Benefits for Ditch 19. After discussion thereof, and upon vote
being taken thereon, the motion passed on a roll call vote as follows:
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS YEA NAY ABSENT ABSTAIN
Bob Lahman X
Kurt Mortenson X
Dan Bucholz X
Lee Rogness X
Wayne Johnson X
CONSOLIDATION OF COUNTY DITCHES 13 AND 19
After the orders were approved adopting the redetermined benefits for both County Ditch 13 and County Ditch
19, Drainage Inspector Colby Palmersheim discussed the consolidation of County Ditches 13 and 19.
Palmersheim stated that consolidation would provide for the efficient administration of the drainage systems.
A motion was made by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Lahman to initiate the process
of consolidation of County Ditch 13 and County Ditch 19. After the motion passed unanimously, the following
resolution was introduced to set a hearing:
CONSOLIDATION OF COUNTY DITCHES 13 AND 19
OTTER TAIL COUNTY RESOLUTION NO. 2024-80
WHEREAS, Otter Tail County Ditch No. 13 was established on November 25, 1905 and County Ditch No. 19
was established on October 12, 1906; and
WHEREAS, an order to initiate redetermination of benefits was signed on the 7th day of January 2020, with
an amended order being signed on the 25th day of January 2022; and
WHEREAS, the redetermined benefits were adopted by order on the 8th day of October 2024; and
WHEREAS, a motion was made by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Lahman to initiate
the process of consolidation of County Ditch 13 and County Ditch 19 to provide for the efficient administration
of the drainage systems.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, a hearing be scheduled pursuant to Minn. Stat. §103E.801
subd. 3 for the consolidation of drainage systems of County Ditch No. 13 and County Ditch No. 19. The hearing
shall take place on November 19, 2024 at 12:30 p.m. at the Government Service Center, 510 W. Fir Ave,
Page 2 of 7
STATE OF MINNESOTA
Drainage Authority Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024
OTTER TAIL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
SEATED IN ITS CAPACITY AS A MEMBER OF THE JOINT COUNTY DRAINAGE
AUTHORITY FOR WADENA AND OTTER TAIL COUNTIES JUDICIAL DITCH 2
At a duly noticed and public meeting, the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners, seated as a member of
the Joint County Drainage Authority of Wadena and Otter Tail Counties for Judicial Ditch 2, met to review the
Resolution below. After a presentation and discussion of the matters herein, Commissioner Johnson moved,
seconded by Commissioner Rogness, to adopt the following Resolution:
RESOLUTION TO CONFIRM AND RATIFY WADENA AND OTTER TAIL JOINT COUNTY
DRAINAGE AUTHORITY FOR JD2, CONFIRMING SELECTION OF MEMBERS TO JOINT
COUNTY DRAINAGE AUTHORITY BOARD, DETERMINING SELECTION OF MEMBERS
TO FILL VACANCIES, AND DESIGNATING MAJORITY COUNTY
OTTER TAIL COUNTY RESOLUTION NO. 2024-81
WHEREAS, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 103E.235, subdivision 2, a public drainage system
established or benefitting land in two or more counties requires the formation of a joint county drainage
authority board consisting of five members, with at least one member from each county board of
commissioners; and
WHEREAS, Wadena and Otter Tail Counties Judicial Ditch 2 ("JD 2") is an established public drainage system
that benefits lands in Wadena and Otter Tail Counties; and
WHEREAS, the Joint County Drainage Authority of Wadena and Otter Tail Counties for JD 2 ("Wadena and
Otter Tail JDA") must be established to serve as the public drainage authority over Otter Tail County property
benefited by JD 2 and the Wadena and Otter Tail JDA for JD 2 must include at least one member from Otter
Tail County; and
WHEREAS, a vacancy in the membership of the joint county drainage authority must be filled by joint action
of the boards.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by this Board of Commissioners as follows:
1. The Boards of Commissioners of Wadena and Otter Tail Counties are taking joint and concurrent action
through identical resolutions to each select members from their respective boards of commissioners for
appointment to the Wadena and Otter Tail JDA for JD 2 and to proscribe the process for filling future
vacancies in membership of the Wadena and Otter Tail JDA.
2. That the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners appoints the following initial members from Otter Tail
County as members for appointment to the Wadena and Otter Tail JDA for JD 2:
Dan Bucholz (District 1)
Robert (Bob) Lahman (District 4)
3. That the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners confirms the concurrent appointment by the Wadena
County Board of Commissioners the following initial members from Wadena County as members for
appointment to the Wadena and Otter Tail JDA for JD 2:
Page 4 of 7
Drainage Authority Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024
Fergus Falls, MN. The County Auditor shall give notice by publication to all persons interested in the drainage
system.
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was introduced by Commissioner Johnson, duly
seconded by Commissioner Rogness and, after discussion thereof and upon vote being taken thereon, passed
unanimously.
Adopted at Fergus Falls, MN this 8th day of October 2024.
OTTER TAIL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
By: __j_f~w/-,t~.:........./14:d.L-~~==--==----
Kurt Mortenson, Board of Commissioners Chair
Dated: October 22, 2024
Attest: LY,· IXLL l-/tlrv:v---
Nicole Hansen, Clerk
DITCH 16 -REPAIR REPORT
Motion by Johnson, second by Lahman and unanimously carried to authorize repair on County Ditch 16, along
Bonnie Beach Road and Clitherall Lake, to remove cattail growth as recommended by Drainage Inspector
Colby Palmersheim. Palmersheim will investigate whether a spraying application or mechanical means will be
used for cattail removal.
DITCH 39 -REPAIR
Motion by Rogness, second by Bucholz and unanimously carried to approve repairs to County Ditch 39 in
Western Township, from 160th Street through County Highway 2, to remove sediment and vegetation
obstructions to restore proper flow as recommended by Drainage Inspector Colby Palmersheim.
DITCH 64 -MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT
Motion by Rogness, second by Johnson and unanimously carried to authorize appropriate County Officials'
signatures to execute an updated Memorandum of Agreement between the Fish and Wildlife Service of the
U.S. Department of the Interior, Otter Tail County, Orwell Township, the Buffalo Red River Watershed District
and the West Otter Tail Soil and Water Conservation District for a joint venture for the purposes of relocating
Otter Tail County Ditch 64 tile system in sections 15, 16, and 21, Orwell Township.
DITCH 64 -PETITION FROM US FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Drainage Inspector Colby Palmersheim, along with Stacy Salvevold with the US Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS), provided an update on County Ditch 64. On October 1, 2024 the USFWS filed a petition with Otter
Tail County seeking approval to impound, reroute, and divert drainage system waters on Otter Tail County
Ditch 64 for beneficial use. This impoundment, reroute, and diversion will serve the purpose of restoring
drainage to property owners, restoring and protecting wetlands, and impounding more surface water on the
drainage system reducing the amount of surface water currently draining through the system.
DITCH 64 -ORDER TO ACCEPT USFWS PETITION AND APPOINT ENGINEER
Motion by Johnson, second by Rogness and unanimously carried to accept the Petition to Impound, Reroute,
and Divert Otter Tail County Ditch 64 Drainage System Waters and to approve the Findings and Order to
appoint engineer Merlyn (Wes) Drake, P.E. to investigate the potential and feasibility of the proposed
installation of the County Ditch 64 Drainage System waters.
Page 3 of 7
Murlyn Kreklau (District 4)
Ron Noon (District 1)
Bill Stearns (District 3)
Drainage Authority Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024
4. Future vacancies on the Wadena and Otter Tail JDA for JD 2 from Otter Tail County shall be filled by the
successor Commissioner from the District indicated herein.
5. That since a majority of land benefited by JD 2 is located within Wadena County, Wadena County shall
be the "majority" county under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 103E.
6. That this Resolution, upon being adopted by all counties constituting members of the Wadena and Otter
Tail JOA for JD 2, constitutes the joint meeting directed under Minnesota Statutes, section 103E.235,
subdivision 2, and that said Resolutions by other member counties are cross-ratified by this Board for the
formation of the Wadena and Otter Tail Joint County Drainage Authority for JD 2 and for fulfilling all future
vacancies by and through the process described herein.
7. That the Wadena and Otter Tail JOA for JD 2 established herein shall be perpetual until either dissolved
or modified by future action of the Wadena and Otter Tail County Boards of Commissioners, seated jointly
or through joint action.
After discussion, the Board Chair called the question. The question was on the adoption of the foregoing
resolution and there were 5 yeas, 0 nays, 0 absent, and 0 abstentions as follows:
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS YEA NAY ABSENT ABSTAIN
Bob Lahman X
Kurt Mortenson X
Dan Bucholz X
Lee Rogness X
Wayne Johnson X
Upon vote, the Chair declared the motion passed and the Findings and Order adopted.
Adopted at Fergus Falls, MN this 8th day of October 2024.
OTTER TAIL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Dated: October 22, 2024
By: _fi_'4-n_____,:;..u;;."'-£.-/1t._:::}_uL-.1~~_:::_:::-____ _ I
Attest: Jr,, '{'_ 0 6,., J.+ua9--::
Kurt Mortenson, Board of Commissioners Chair Nicole Hansen, Clerk
STATE OF MINNESOTA
OTTER TAIL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
SEATED IN ITS CAPACITY AS A MEMBER OF THE JOINT COUNTY DRAINAGE
AUTHORITY FOR WADENA AND OTTER TAIL COUNTIES JUDICIAL DITCH 4
At a duly noticed and public meeting, the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners, seated as a member of
the Joint County Drainage Authority of Wadena and Otter Tail Counties for Judicial Ditch 4, met to review the
Resolution below. After a presentation and discussion of the matters herein, Commissioner Johnson moved,
seconded by Commissioner Rogness, to adopt the following Resolution:
Page 5 of 7
Drainage Authority Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024
RESOLUTION TO CONFIRM AND RATIFY WADENA AND OTTER TAIL JOINT COUNTY
DRAINAGE AUTHORITY FOR JD4, CONFIRMING SELECTION OF MEMBERS TO JOINT
COUNTY DRAINAGE AUTHORITY BOARD, DETERMINING SELECTION OF MEMBERS
TO FILL VACANCIES, AND DESIGNATING MAJORITY COUNTY
OTTER TAIL COUNTY RESOLUTION NO. 2024-82
WHEREAS, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 103E.235, subdivision 2, a public drainage system
established or benefitting land in two or more counties requires the formation of a joint county drainage
authority board consisting of five members, with at least one member from each county board of
commissioners; and
WHEREAS, Wadena and Otter Tail Counties Judicial Ditch 4 ("JD 4") is an established public drainage system
that benefits lands in Wadena and Otter Tail Counties; and
WHEREAS, the Joint County Drainage Authority of Wadena and Otter Tail Counties for JD 4 ("Wadena and
Otter Tail JDA") must be established to serve as the public drainage authority over Otter Tail County property
benefited by JD 4 and the Wadena and Otter Tail JDA for JD 4 must include at least one member from Otter
Tail County; and
WHEREAS, a vacancy in the membership of the joint county drainage authority must be filled by joint action
of the boards.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by this Board of Commissioners as follows:
1. The Boards of Commissioners of Wadena and Otter Tail Counties are taking joint and concurrent action
through identical resolutions to each select members from their respective boards of commissioners for
appointment to the Wadena and Otter Tail JDA for JD 4 and to proscribe the process for filling future
vacancies in membership of the Wadena and Otter Tail JDA.
2. That the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners appoints the following initial members from Otter Tail
County as members for appointment to the Wadena and Otter Tail JDA for JD 4:
Dan Bucholz (District 1)
Robert (Bob) Lahman (District 4)
3. That the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners confirms the concurrent appointment by the Wadena
County Board of Commissioners the following initial members from Wadena County as members for
appointment to the Wadena and Otter Tail JDA for JD 4:
Murlyn Kreklau (District 4)
Ron Noon (District 1)
Bill Stearns (District 3)
4. Future vacancies on the Wadena and Otter Tail JDA for JD 4 from Otter Tail County shall be filled by the
successor Commissioner from the District indicated herein.
5. That since a majority of land benefited by JD 4 is located within Wadena County, Wadena County shall
be the "majority" county under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 103E.
Page 6 of 7
Drainage Authority Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2024
6. That this Resolution, upon being adopted by all counties constituting members of the Wadena and Otter
Tail JOA for JD 4, constitutes the joint meeting directed under Minnesota Statutes, section 103E.235,
subdivision 2, and that said Resolutions by other member counties are cross-ratified by this Board for the
formation of the Wadena and Otter Tail Joint County Drainage Authority for JD 4 and for fulfilling all future
vacancies by and through the process described herein.
7. That the Wadena and Otter Tail JOA for JD 4 established herein shall be perpetual until either dissolved
or modified by future action of the Wadena and Otter Tail County Boards of Commissioners, seated jointly
or through joint action.
After discussion, the Board Chair called the question. The question was on the adoption of the foregoing
resolution and there were 5 yeas, 0 nays, 0 absent, and O abstentions as follows:
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS YEA NAY ABSENT ABSTAIN
Bob Lahman X
Kurt Mortenson X
Dan Bucholz X
Lee Rogness X
Wayne Johnson X
Upon vote, the Chair declared the motion passed and the Findings and Order adopted.
Adopted at Fergus Falls, MN this 8th day of October 2024.
OTTER TAIL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
By:_/L..&7._~• _vtz±=-_____ _
Kurt Mortenson, Board of Commissioners Chair
Dated: October 22, 2024
Attest: ~-Ci) t..,_tJ-cvvv
Nicole Hansen, Clerk
ADJOURNMENT
At 1:10 p.m., Chair Mortenson declared the Otter Tail County Drainage Authority meeting adjourned. The next
Drainage Authority meeting will immediately follow the next regular Board meeting on Tuesday, October 22,
2024, at the Government Services Center in Fergus Falls and via livestream.
OTTER TAIL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Dated: October 22, 2024
Atta la!; 1 ' tD 4., j..J WV-J'---..
Kurt Mortenson, Board of Commissioners Chair Nicole Hansen, Clerk
Page 7 of 7