Football Contest page 6
Sauk Rapids Herald Pulse page 8
PRSRT STD ECR U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #861
Sports page 1B
New Look. Same Local Coverage since 1854. Vol. 163, No. 27
Staff nominated for Excellence Award BY ANNA SALDANA STAFF WRITER
SAUK RAPIDS – Interim superintendent Bruce Watkins recognized Àve district staff members who are nominated for the Leadership in Educational Excellence Award. Nick Ostendorf, a sixth grade social studies teacher, Erin Bakke, a Àfth grade teacher at Pleasantview Elementary, Marsha Ergen, a physical education teacher at Mississippi Heights Elementary, Lyrae Ganz, a science teacher at SRRHS, and Jessica Markgraf, an early childhood teacher, will all be recognized. The recognition event will take place Oct. 26 at the River’s Edge Convention Center. The event will acknowledge educational leaders from nearly 40 school districts. In other school board news: • Sharon Henry, Carl Newbanks, April Diedrich, Amanda Groethe and Kelli Pederson were named new Sauk Rapids-Rice Education Foundation board members at the SRREF Sept. 19 meeting.
Ambassadors host 10th annual Parade of Lights BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER
SAUK RAPIDS — Sauk Rapids and surrounding community members will again be invited to partake in the annual Parade of Lights and Family Fun Day. The event, which is a fundraiser and service project for the Sauk Rapids Community Ambassador program, will be celebrating its 10th year and take place Saturday, Dec. 2. The council approved the festivities at Monday’s council meeting. City staff will work with parade organizers to facilitate the event. The day will begin at 10 a.m. with a living Nativity scene presented by Living Waters Lutheran Church in the Coborn’s Superstore parking lot and a Toys for Trots drive at the Sauk Rapids Fire Department. A silent auction and kids’ bingo will commence at 11 a.m. at the Sauk Rapids VFW Post No. 6992, followed by a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. A Trots for Tots 5K starts at 3 p.m.; and steak fry, meat rafÁe and the Holiday Parade of Lights launches at 5 p.m. More information can be found at the city’s website http:// ci.sauk-rapids.mn.us under City Celebrations. In other council news: • Approved posting old city Christmas decorations for sale on a municipal website. If the city is unable to sell the items, they will donate to another town. • Approved the site plan for Dutch Maid Bakery. • Approved Ànal change order to the 2016 Eighth Street North and Third Avenue North Improvements Project. • Awarded the Second Avenue South overhead to underground electrical conversion project to Electrical Solutions, Inc for $10,200. • Approved storm sewer repair on Fourth Street North between Seventh and Eighth Avenues. The project was awarded to Kuechle Underground, the same contractor currently working on Second Avenue. • Approved appointment of James Warzecha to the street maintenance position. Warzecha is a former employee of the city of St. Cloud.
Saturday, October 14, 2017
11 2nd Ave. N., Unit 103, Sauk Rapids, Benton County, MN 56379
District prepares for referendum Open enrollment, security hot topics BY ANNA SALDANA STAFF WRITER
SAUK RAPIDS — A new school, increased security, expanded early childhood, new athletic facilities and rebuilding Pleasantview Elementary were all concepts the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District had plans for as they put a referendum to vote May 23. That $86.9 million referendum failed to pass with 54 percent [2,367 individuals] of voters casting “no.” With an unsuccessful referendum, the district went to work almost immediately to determine what to do next. Board members believe a referendum remains important due to the variety of existing facility needs. “The district is experiencing overcrowding at two of the three elementary schools – Pleasantview Elementary and Mississippi Heights Elementary. Pleasantview also needs signiÀcant remodeling and the district would like to be able to get rid of the portable classrooms at that site,” said Bruce Watkins, SRR Interim Superintendent. “The district would like to expand and improve early childhood spaces. There is also a strong desire to improve the high school athletic facilities and to have these improvements on the site of the high school. The space for athletic improvements already
PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER
The Sauk Rapids-Rice District has hired a consulting Àrm to administer a community survey through the beginning of November. The district intends to put a referendum to a vote in 2018.
exists due to forward thinking of the original planning and layout years ago.” Watkins said the district believes the items, which were brought forward by the community facilities task force, are still of signiÀcant need. The board has hired the Morris Leatherman Company to assist in gathering community input in order to better determine priorities related to the facility needs. Surveys will be conducted via phone and available online later this month through early November. “We are expecting to have survey results from the Àrm by
late November,” Watkins said. “The surveys are intended to help align future building and facilities referendum questions with the community values and priorities. The surveys will also provide valuable information to the administration on other district programs. Responses from the surveys may indicate that the public would like more information; that certain items on the last referendum should be changed or that different items should be added or considered. In general; the surveys will help align the community priorities with the district facility needs and provide
direction as we move forward.” The Àrm’s survey is at a price of $20,000, with the possibility for additional cost. Sauk Rapids resident Dan Johnson feels that money could have been spent elsewhere. “I feel they wouldn’t have had to spend $20,000 on that,” Johnson said. “That $20,000 could go a long way in upgrading security in our schools.” Sauk Rapids City Council member Jason Ellering feels similarly. “The district probably could
Referendum page 2
Dutch Maid Bakery plans relocation in Sauk Rapids
add something that is already there,” is no other Old Capital Tavern. It’s cream or gray colored block. The said Jeff Muntifering, who took over Coborn’s home base. That brings approximately 2,880-square-foot as owner of his father’s business in that identity to Sauk Rapids. I just building will include over 1,000 2001. “I mean, Jimmy’s Pour House want to add to that with Dutch Maid square feet of retail space, with — there is no other Jimmy’s Pour Bakery. We’re going to bring a the rest used for production. Nine Manea’s House. Manea s Meats — there is bakery, obviously, but I want to add parking spaces will accommodate the BY NATASHA BARBER BER other Manea’s Meats. There is business. Muntifering said they will to what’s already there.” no STAFF WRITER The site plan describes a cedar- serve coffee with their confections no other Czarnetzki’s [Sauk colored sided establishment with and seating will be available inside, SAUK RAPIDS — Dutch utch Maid Rapids Hardware red brick and with potential for outdoor seating Hank]. Bakery is moving to Sauk Rapids. as well. Sauk Rapid Housing and The iconic bakery thatt has been T h e r e Development Authority currently operating in East St. Cloud oud since owns the property and sale 1959 is planning to relocate cate negotiations will be its business behind the Sauk uk Ànalized in the coming Rapids Dairy Queen at 81 1 months. Fifth Street N. A site plan The move comes for a new building was after Muntifering’s approved at Tuesday’s uncertainty with his city council meeting. “I’m not looking to ILLUSTRATION BY STEPHEN A RUDNICKI DESIGN bring something to Sauk Dutch Maid Bakery intends to relocate and construct a new facility on Fifth Street North, Sauk Dutch Maid Bakery page 3 Rapids; I’m looking to Rapids. The building will house retail and production space and have storefront parking.
Site plan approved for downtown
Checkmark Alaska Kath completes travel to all 50 states BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER
SAUK RAPIDS — Kathy Kath never quite set out to tour all 50 of the United States. But following a handful of trips, she realized how close she was to achieving the milestone. “As I went to more and more states and I saw how many I had been to, I thought, ‘Oh, I can do this,’” said Kath, who retired as a paraprofessional from Sauk RapidsRice High School. “I think I was down to six or eight states left when Walter [Kath’s late husband] died [in 2008].” Kath made the feat a goal, and the 67-year-old Sauk Rapids resident reached her destination when she completed a trip to Alaska this past August. With good friend Winnie Doroff by her side, Kath Áew Àve hours to Anchorage, Alaska for an inland bus tour that lasted 12 days from Aug. 8-20. The two participated in a group tour that circled a portion of the state’s southeast corner, visiting Anchorage, Denali National Park and Reserve, Fairbanks and Valdez. The Ànal checkpoint in Kath’s lifelong United States travel came many years after her Àrst vacation. Her passion for tourism had been initiated by her father when she was a young girl. By the time Kath was an adult she had set foot in most all the western
states. “He did a lot of traveling, so I grew up traveling,” Kath said. “I went to Glacier and Yellowstone [National Parks], Wisconsin Dells, the Black Hills — a lot of those places as I was growing up.” Having been bit by the travel bug early, Kath continued to travel on her own to see family members and with her husband and children after marrying. The family would often tour different places in the motor home — some the same locations Kath had enjoyed as a young girl — even taking the kids on a 17day California road trip. Kath tallied Pennsylvania, Washington D.C. and all the states i n between while chaperoning her daughter’s marching band trip, and eventually
Kathy Kath page 2
PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER
Kathy Kath, of Sauk Rapids, sits with photographs of her past travels. She recently completed visiting all 50 United States.
PAGE 4 | SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2017 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD
OPINION
Ghost stories
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opened them again. She was still there. I started Last wee, I uploaded a post on our Sauk crying. From there my memory goes blank. It was Rapids Herald Facebook page, soliciting ghost the middle of the day, and I cannot for the life of stories. With Halloween on our heels, I wanted to Ànd a community member or more who had a me remember what I did after the encounter. All tale with a supernatural apparition — whether the I know is, I was so terriÀed and mystiÀed that I story was creepy, crawly or not. No one replied never told this story until I was at least a teenager. or messaged the paper, so I thought I’d share Ghost No. 2: My Àrst home as an adult was a my own ghost stories this week … in hopes that BY NATASHA BARBER trailer house. Due to unfortunate circumstances, someone will come forward with a story I can a person had passed away inside the home and it share. very well could have contained spirits. But this Ghost No. 1: This story took place so long story is less frightening. ago that I couldn’t really tell you whether or not it was a After I had my son, there were occasions where even dream. Or ... in this case, a nightmare. When I was entering when Lucas was not home, I could hear children laughing kindergarten, my parents built their home near Bowlus. in the other room. I very well could have been daydreaming There was an opening in a wooded patch of land where wild and hearing things myself, but I like to believe there were asparagus grew. There was also what seemed to be a couple of others taking joy in his toys and the comforts of our home. remaining foundations from former homesteads or buildings It happened on numerous occasions. Especially after Johnny on the property. To this day I’ve never delved into the history arrived. of the land, but I can say there may have been some unsettled Johnny was Lucas’s imaginary friend. Lucas and he souls. became friends around the time my son was four. He wasn’t My bedroom was located in the basement with a window the type of friend who sat at the dinner table with us; but there at ground level. One day, I lay the wrong way on my bed, with were plenty of times our dinner conversations were Àlled my head where my feet belong. I hung my head over the bed with stories of Johnny, fast cars and adventures. Eventually as if to do a backward somersault, letting my hair touch the according to Lucas, Johnny moved to Texas. We never heard Áoor. I looked up toward my window and froze with fright. I the unexplained children laughing or playing again. couldn’t even make a sound. There through the pane stood an My stories may sound crazy, but life is Àlled with old woman, hunched over, with gray wrinkly skin. Her Àgure mysteries — even those from beyond our world. If you have a was small and she stood only a few inches above the window ghost story to share. I’d be glad to listen. frame, stooping down peering inside. I closed my eyes and
Reconcile or die
about how when we get treated as of no use – “Oh no you didn’t!” That’s what I said when garbage, good for nothing – that we acquire scars a friend came by and tossed a wooden Broyhill too. We might be able to forgive our trespassers desk into our Àre pit. Well, it was more like, and move on, but there is a scar to remind us that “Stop,” as I skidded through the dirt, to a halt, with my hands held up. “That’s a really superwe felt pain. duper, nice desk.” My friend looked at me like I As I was applying the colored paint and just scolded him. I had to explain how the desk seeing the desk transform in front of me, I was could still be used. reminded of how God has transformed me. I lived I have a really hard time throwing things a rebellious life in my youth. I treated myself like away. I’ve gotten better at it since we went garbage with a garbage sailor mouth, and I treated through a move, but I still have trouble throwing BY MERCY NYGAARD others like garbage too. I painted this desk, layer things into the Àre pit or the garbage. after layer, all week long and I saw the message Life by Faith My 9-year-old looked at the desk and said, of reconciliation unfold through it. “I really would like that in my room.” That’s all “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new it took as I looked over, spotting that all it needed was some creation, old things have passed away; behold, all things have sanding off of marker and a name that was carved into it from become new.” the previous child owner. It also needed some hammering Layer by layer, God has painted over me. He didn’t count back into place from the toss off of the truck into the Àre pit. up all of my sins, charging me with them and then toss me into It was fun experimenting with transforming the desk. the Àre. No, He pulled me out. As I surrendered to Him, He Because it was bound for incineration, we felt we couldn’t reconciled me through Jesus. I still bear the scars from people mess it up. My husband routered a design into the top and mistreating me, and I still bear others’ scars from when I Àlled in the grooved design with resin. We then stained the mistreated them. This reminds me of how far God has brought top surface. I primed the rest of the desk for paint and every me. And like the desk, I have many sides and angles that still time I thought I was almost done with my Àrst coat, there was need paint. Always, until the day I get to meet Jesus face to another side and another angle to be painted. While I was face. Each layer of paint made the desk look newer. The old getting every angle, I noticed a scar from the toss. My husband was gone. People who know your past may remember what initially hammered all the loose parts back into place, but there you once looked like, but when you are in Christ, they will see was a big gash from where it had impacted onto the ground too you now, and they will see a new creation. harshly. I painted right over the gash and splintered wood. But You were never destined for the Àre. Surrender, pick up I didn’t leave that section before the Lord had spoke to me the cross and answer your calling.
Education key to connecting schools, community On Oct. 9 at the business meeting of the Sauk Rapids-Rice Board of Education, Community Education Director Nicole Wilke provided an overview regarding the district’s programs. Her presentation detailed an impressive array of community education programs designed to engage all ages. Many of you have in some way or another made use of, or participated in, some aspect of this programming. I wanted to share what I learned about community education and its programs and also encourage you make use of the Sauk RapidsRice Community Education offerings that appeal to you and your family. How, why and when did
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The Sauk Rapids Herald is published on Saturdays by Star Publications. Telephone (320) 251-1971. Hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., OfÀcial Newspaper of the city of Sauk Rapids and Independent School District No. 47
community education begin? In the 1960s, citizens in Flint, Mich. realized that one of their community’s most valuable assets, its school buildings, were sitting dark and empty in the evenings after school children went home. With a bold vision to maximize their resources, the “lighted
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11 2nd Ave. N., Unit 103 Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 (320) 251-1971
by BRUCE WATKINS Interim Superintendent
schoolhouse” concept of community education was born. Local educators and politicians quickly realized the potential, and Minnesota soon became a national leader in community education. How has community education evolved and why is it important? Community education programs are vital to our community by providing quality programs to learners of all ages and abilities. Community education has a long-practiced philosophy of citizen and community engagement and collaborative partnerships, key components of connecting the schools and the community. Sauk Rapids-Rice Community Education served over 6,500 participants during
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the 2016-17 school year. The district has hosted over 97,000 participants in school sponsored activities (not including athletics) and over 154,500 participants from local community groups. Community education’s top priorities are: to close the opportunity gap with our earliest learners; to expand learning opportunities beyond the school day and year; to improve the local workforce through adult basic education programs; and to engage the community. Sauk Rapids-Rice Community Education engages the community by offering over 600 program options each year. There are multiple technology, Àtness, gardening and health and wellness programs, as well as music lessons, painting parties, etc. They also host family events such as the Monster Mash Halloween party, free Movie Madness nights, a parent awareness presentation series, and so much more. Please take the time to visit the district website at http://www.isd47. org/ce to learn more and register. My thanks goes out to Nicole Wilke, director of community education, the community education program staff and more than 70 instructors who help to make these programs so successful.
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Deadlines The deadline for most news in the Herald is noon on Wednesday. Exceptions are obituaries which have a deadline of 10 a.m. Thursday. The deadline for advertisements in the Herald is 5 p.m. on Wednesday. Letters Letters to the editor and other opinion articles are welcomed. Letters must be signed with Àrst and last name and include address and phone number. Letters should be short and to the point (400 words or less). We reserve the right to edit lengthy letters. Corrections/ClariÀcations The Herald strives for accuracy. If you would like to report a factual error, please call (320) 251-1971.
SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2017 | PAGE 7 PULSE CentraCare's "Our Best for You" health fair Public Notices REGULAR MEETING SAUK RAPIDS CITY COUNCIL SAUK RAPIDS GOVERNMENT CENTER, 250 Summit Ave N. Monday, September 25, 2017 6:00PM MINUTES
PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH HOAG
Centracare employees – (from left) Noelia Gonzalez, LouAnn Schuller and Hannah Dockendorf – stand inside a blown up colon that shows the different health ailments a person can go through, such as crohns, polyps or cancer.
(Left) Bev Voigt, of Sauk Rapids, participates in the Virtual Dementia Tour after being given tasks that were impaired by tunnel glasses, headphones emitting load sounds and gloves to affect sensory skills. (Below) Patty Stegeman, an RN at the Diabetes Center for Centracare, tests Rolf Turner’s glucose for diabetes risk.
Grace Grell from page 8 people being inspiring because they have a disability,” Ruff said. “It’s about what they do for the community.” Though the Americans with Disabilities Act prohibiting discrimination based on ability passed in the early 1990s, Ruff said there is still a lot of work to be done nationally – and locally – to eliminate stereotypes. “People with disabilities are still marginalized,” Ruff said. “They are marginalized in housing, transportation, accessibility to different places and that can result in poverty. We as a society are currently operating on the old standard of separate but equal. But what we are advocating is equitable and equal.” Grace said she often gives presentations and speeches for Make-A-Wish. She was a recipient of a trip to the Bahamas in 2015. Grace also promotes her online Make-A-
Wish donation Facebook page where she sells some of her pieces to help give back. But the Celebration of Abilities event will be the Àrst time she will get to share this side of her journey on stage. “I’m going to talk about being your own advocate,” Grace said. “Because no one can experience your abilities like you can. But whatever the disability, it doesn’t matter. I think you just have to be grateful for what you have. For me, I’ve gotten so many abilities. It’s my reality. I don’t remember it being any different.” The Celebration of Abilities event will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 24 at the River’s Edge Convention Center, 10 Fourth Ave. S. The event is free and open to the public.
Flu shots from page 8
others: First and foremost, you can take care of yourself. Eat right and get enough rest and exercise. You can also avoid being exposed to persons who are sick; wash your hands often with soap and water or a hand sanitizer; don’t share drinking cups or straws; regularly clean common surfaces such as door knobs, refrigerator handles, phones and water faucets; cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze, using a tissue or into your sleeve; protect small children and infants by not exposing them to large crowds when Áu is in the community; and avoid contact with sick persons. If you are ill, stay at home. And lastly and most importantly, get vaccinated. Hopefully, you see the pattern here. While many of these actions are easy and effective, getting the
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Áu vaccine is a great way to protect not only yourself but those around you, particularly those who cannot get vaccinated. The more who are vaccinated, the more
protection our vulnerable populations will experience. So this Áu season do something not only for yourself but also for your neighbor — get a Áu shot.
Public Notices NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Benton County Planning Commission will conduct public hearings on October 26th, 2017 in the Commissioner’s Room, Benton County Government Center, Foley, and beginning at 7:00 p.m. The Planning Commission will hear the following: 1. 7:00 p.m. M L D Enterprises, landowner and Novel Oya Eight LLP, applicant, requesting to amend interim use permit #17-288 to construct a community solar energy system in the Agricultural District. Pursuant to Sections 7.1.24C, 9.20 and 11.6.3. The affected property is described as follows: E1/2 NW1/4 and SW1/4 NE1/4, Section 10, Sauk Rapids Township. 2. 7:10 p.m. CF Novel Solar Gardens 8 LLC requesting to amend interim use permit #16-485 to construct a community solar energy system in the Agricultural District. Pursuant to Sections 7.1.24C, 9.20 and 11.6. The affected property is described as follows: part of the W1/2 of the SE1/4, Section 10, Sauk Rapids Township. ANYONE wishing to be heard with reference to the above will be heard at this meeting. R-42-1B ATTENTION BENTON COUNTY RESIDENTS Benton County Board of Commissioners has one opening on the Board of Adjustment. The Board of Adjustment shall consist of Àve members representing each of the Àve commissioner districts. Each member is appointed by the County Board. The members of the Board of Adjustment shall be paid a per diem of $60 and their mileage in an amount to be determined by separate action of the County Board. The Board will be appointing a new member from District 3, Commissioner James McMahon District. If you are interested in the areas of planning and zoning and would like to serve on the Board of Adjustment, please send a letter of consideration, describing your interest and background to Benton County Department of Development Attn. Roxanne Achman, Government Center, 531 Dewey St. PO Box 129 Foley, MN 56329. R-42-1B
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6:00 P.M. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance Mayor Kurt Hunstiger called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. All members present. 2. Additions or Changes to the Agenda Ross Olson requested to add Approve Ending Probationary Employee’s Employment with the City as agenda item 9-E. Olson also requested to add Approving Probationary Pay for AFSCME Employees Working Sunday Liquor Store Hours and Additional Pay for Hourly Employees as agenda item 9-F. 3. Approve the Agenda Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Heinen to approve the Agenda as amended. Motion carried unanimously. 4. Approve Minutes A. 9-11-17 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Sauer to approve the 9-11-17 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes. Motion carried unanimously with Councilperson Thronson abstaining 5. Receive and File NONE 6. Mayor’s Communication • Former O’Reilly Auto Parts Building-Mayor Hunstiger noted that he often gets asked questions regarding the status of the former O’Reilly Auto Parts building. He explained that the building that has sat empty for the past seven years is still current on its long term lease with O’Reilly. Mayor Hunstiger stated that the City feels that the former O’Reilly building, which has been sitting vacant for some time, is in a prime downtown location and the City would like to see something more done with this building. He noted that there had been a potential leasor for the new building adjacent to the O’Reilly building, but a parking disagreement with O’Reilly Auto Parts has caused an issue with the neighboring building attempting to Ànd a tenant. Mayor Hunstiger discussed the letter that the City sent to O’Reilly Auto Parts Corporate OfÀce with the goal of hopefully working out some type of agreement that will at a minimum allow the parking issues to be worked out. Mayor Hunstiger said that he is also hoping that O’Reilly Auto Parts will allow the building owner to make some upgrades to the building so that when the lease is up in three years the building is ready to go. The overall goal here is to keep a viable downtown. Mayor Hunstiger said that the City has not yet received a response from O’Reilly Auto Parts, but he just wanted to provide an update as to where things are at today with the vacant O’Reilly Auto Parts building. 7. Audience Items/Visitors Total Time Limit 2 Minutes for Items NOT on the Agenda Henry Oerhlein, 3425 Golden Spike Road, talked about how for several months he was attempting to determine who owns the ice arena in Sauk Rapids. Oerhlein said that Sports Arena East, LLC is the owner of the arena. Jack Kahlhamer said that he thinks that the Benton County Ag Society owns the building and Sports Arena East, LLC runs the building. Kahlhamer explained that this is why the building is tax exempt. 8. Public Hearings A. Applicant City of Sauk Rapids Purpose To Discuss the Updates of the City’s OfÀcial Assessment Policy As It Relates To Assessment Costs For Downtown Street Lighting 1. Open Public Hearing 2. Close Public Hearing Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Heinen to close the public hearing. Motion carried unanimously. 3. Consider Action Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to approve the ordinance reducing the assessment on Downtown Street lighting in the City’s assessment policy. Motion carried unanimously. B. Applicant Margaret Smolnik Purpose To Consider Rezoning 10.59 Acres From Agricultural 1 To Residential 1 1. Open Public Hearing 2. Close Public Hearing Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to close the public hearing. Motion carried unanimously. 3. Consider Action Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Heinen to approve the rezoning request as submitted on the condition that the Applicant provides a wetland delineation for the site prior to applying for a building permit. Discussion: Mayor Hunstiger said that he spoke with the buyer and he is aware of all of the items being discussed tonight. Motion carried unanimously. Mayor Hunstiger noted that there are a few “islands” in the City that are not currently zoned as they are on the City’s Comprehensive Plan, so now this property is zoned to match the Comprehensive Plan. C. Applicant Purpose Cammo Properties LLC. Purpose To Consider A Ten Foot Variance From The Side Yard Setback. Twenty Feet Is Required To Accommodate A New Building To Be Constructed at 1050 Stearns Drive 1. Open Public Hearing 2. Close Public Hearing Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Heinen to close the public hearing motion carried unanimously. 3. Consider Action Motion: Moved by Councilperson Heinen and seconded by Councilperson Sauer to recommend that the Site Plan and Variance request to move the building 5 feet to the north and Àve feet to the east, that the stormwater, drainage, and utility plans be approved by Engineering before the site plan will be valid, that the dumpster be screened per code, the site plan be updated to reÁect the variance, that the City waive the variance fee. Motion carried unanimously. 9. Consent Agenda A. Approve Posting of Existing Utility Maintenance Position B. Approve Work Order #2 to the 2017 2nd Avenue Improvement Project C. Approve 2017 Plumbing and Mechanical Contractor Licenses D. Approve Old Municipal Park Building Change Order E. Approve Ending Probationary Employee’s Employment with the City F. Approve Additional Pay for AFSCME Employees Working Sunday Liquor Store Hours Motion: Moved by Councilperson Thronson and seconded by Councilperson Ellering to approve agenda items 9A-9F. Motion carried unanimously. 10. Regular Agenda A. All Inclusive Park Presentation Natalie Gerads, Sauk Rapids-Rice High School freshman, presented on her interest to develop an “all inclusive playground” somewhere in Sauk Rapids. Gerads explained that an “all inclusive playground” is a playground that can promote physical, cognitive, learning, visual, and hearing experiences that enrich play experiences for ALL people. Gerads discussed her vision for an inclusive playground in the City of Sauk Rapids and where she envisions this park. She said that currently she prefers the area next to Mayhew Creek. She noted that another possible option in the City, which might be a good location for this park, is Autumn Ridge. Gerads talked about possibly reaching out to the community to see if anyone would be willing to donate park land for this cause. It was suggested that the Public Works Committee of the City Council meet with Gerads to futher discuss this idea an narrow down where in the City it would make the most sense to put in an inclusive park. Todd Schultz mentioned that it might make sense to have two members of the Planning Commisson also on the Committee that would meet with Gerads as the Planning Commission has taken on the role of the former Advisory Park Board. B. 2018 Preliminary Levy Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Heinen to approve a Resolution Adopting a Preliminary 2018 Tax Levy. Motion carried unanimously. 11. Other Staff Items A. Reminder: Next City Council Meeting is TUESDAY, October 10th due to Columbus Day Holiday Ross Olson noted that the next City Council meeting will take place on a Tuesday instead of a Monday due to the Columbus Day holiday. B. Southside/Lions Park Improvements Update Todd Schultz provided a brief update on where things are currently at with the Southside/ Lions Park improvements. He said that the planning is still taking place. Soil borrings and an appraisal, which is needed as part of DNR approvals, are the next needed steps. 12. Other Council Items and Communications NONE 13. Approve List of Bills and Claims Motion: Moved by Councilperson Thronson and seconded by Councilperson Ellering to approve the List of Bills and Claims. Motion carried unanimously. 14. Adjournment Motion: Moved by Councilperson Sauer and seconded by Councilperson Heinen to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried unanimously. Mayor Hunstiger adjourned the meeting at 7:25 p.m. R-42-1B
SPORTS
Attending Sauk RapidsRice Storm football games reminds me of my high school days, and it brings back a ton of memories. Screaming our support under the Friday night lights, going nuts when a big play or a touchdown happens and braving the cold nights with blankets and jackets were all part of the experience. Even though my experiences are a little different now, I still often think back to those carefree days. Now, I stand on the sidelines and look back at the student section with a laugh as they chant things like “you can’t do that” on an opponent penalty or a player’s name after a big play. I try to capture the student’s energy and watch for the team’s reaction. But as the team is wrapping up their regular season in only four days’ time, I Ànd myself being a little disappointed. It doesn’t seem like their season should be as far along as it is, but it is nearing the time for playoffs. As I think about what the team has accomplished in their games so far, I am incredibly proud to be a Sauk Rapids-Rice alumna and to still be in the community and able to attend their games. It helps me connect with my brother too, who is a senior this year. The team started their season with a 16-6 win over St. Francis, which gave the team a boost of conÀdence
BY ANNA SALDANA
for what the rest of the season would bring. Then they beat Brainerd, which was monumental for not only the team, but the school and the community. It was the Àrst-ever win over the Warriors and the Àrst homecoming win in seven years. It gave the SRR community a reason to celebrate. The week after that, they beat Sartell 40-14. It was another great win for the boys with the satisfaction of beating their rivals. With one more regular season game and for sure one playoff game, I’m looking forward to what the team can accomplish. I look forward to watching the energy of the team as they run out onto the Àeld amidst cheers from their hometown crowd for their last regular season game. It is with incredible Storm Pride that I will be cheering right along with the rest of the community, watching each play with bated breath and hoping, praying for another Storm win while standing on the sidelines.
tennis
Tennis team ends season BY ANNA SALDANA STAFF WRITER
The Collision girls tennis team – a cooperative between Sauk Rapids-Rice, St. Cloud Apollo and St. Cloud Cathedral – ended their season at sections Oct. 5 and Oct. 6. The team competed in both team and individual competition, but wasn’t able to push anyone through to the second round. “We had an excellent season and had so many girls that obviously wanted to get better this year,” said coach Jamie Hatlestad. “They really took it seriously but always had fun along the way and never let losses get to them too much. They also always won with class.” Team competition The girls played against Becker, losing 6-1. Rachel
Leen and Andrea Decker had the win in No. 1 doubles, a three-set matchup 7-5, 3-6, 10-7. In singles, Grace Middendorf lost in three sets 6-3, 1-6, 3-10. Taryn Czech lost 2-6, 3-6 in No. 2 singles. Jordyn Kruger lost 1-6, 4-6 in No. 3. Amber McClelland lost 2-6, 1-6 in No. 4. In No. 2 doubles, Mataya Ganley and Madison DeMarias lost 2-6, 2-6. Morgan Thompson and Elie Weinert took their No. 3 doubles matchup to three sets, but ultimately lost 2-6, 6-3, 1-6. Individual competition Middendorf lost in the Àrst round 1-6, 2-6, as did Czech 4-6, 3-6. In singles competition. In doubles, Leen and Decker lost 2-6, 2-6. Ganley and DeMarias lost 4-6, 3-6.
Ringger tops two meets BY ANNA SALDANA STAFF WRITER
Sam Ringger continues to have success on the Sauk Rapids-Rice Storm cross country team. His Oct. 5 performance at the LitchÀeld invitational and his Oct. 9 performance at the Eden Va l l e y - Wa t k i n s - K i m b a l l invitational just add to his list of accomplishments. The team will compete in the conference championships Oct. 17 in St. Cloud. Eden Valley-Watkins Kimball invitational Ringger started things off for Sauk Rapids-Rice taking Àrst with a time of 16:36.20. He surpassed the other 45 competitors running with him to take the top spot. In the girls race, Emma Mader led things for the Storm with a 14th place Ànish and a time of 22:17.23. Boys results: 1st Ringger 16:36.20; 28th Cooper Grau-Firkus 19:51.01; 31st Alex Torvik 20:13.09; 34th Jared Bentrud 20:29.59; 35th Jack Grabinski 20:36.94; 36th Nick Kosloske 20:52.99. Girls results: 14th Mader 22:17.23; 30th Emily Sutton 24:00.95.
LitchÀeld invitational Ringger took Àrst place out of 133 runners from 19 teams at the invitational, beating his closest competitor by nearly 30 seconds. “It felt really exciting to win, especially out of that many people. It makes me excited for upcoming meets,” Ringger said. Ringger also accomplished his personal best time at the meet, clocking in at 16:09. 44. “It was very exciting to be able to run that time,” Ringger said. “It shows how hard work pays off.” Ringger isn’t stopping there. He has his sights set on Ànishing a race in less than 16 minutes and earning all-state honors. The team races again Oct. 17 in St. Cloud for the conference championships. Boys results: 1st Ringger 16:09.44, 73rd Bentrud 18:40.73, 101st Grau-Firkus 19:15.23, 109th Grabinski 19:40.73, 117th Kosloske 20:01.23, 132nd Morgan Freese 22:14.39. Girls results: 66th Sutton 22:01.25, 84th Kayleen Martins 22:20.62, 88th Mader 22:28.32.
football
Welch scores for the Storm, SRR falls to Tech BY ANNA SALDANA STAFF WRITER
The Sauk Rapids-Rice Storm football team fell to St. Cloud Tech 34-6 Oct. 6, despite signiÀcant offensive yardage. JD Bates led the team in rushing, a total of 15 yards. Tristan Welch, who scored the Storm’s touchdown in the fourth quarter on a three-yard run, had 10 rushing yards for SRR. Nathan Waldorf led the Storm in receiving, racking up 87 yards. Anthony Massman received for 35 yards, Jared Schlichting for 24, Braden
Tretter for nine and Marcus Santillana for seven, equaling 162 yards. Cade MiltonBaumgardner completed 12 passes for a total of 107 yards, while Kobe Lee threw three successful passes totaling 56 yards. Camdin CarlsonMathies led the Storm in tackles, knocking down 12 drives. The Storm totaled 49 tackles, spread throughout the defensive roster. SR 0-0-0-6 SC 20-0-8-6 The Storm host Hutchinson Oct. 18 to wrap up their regular season play.
Bowling scores Individual high single game: Chris Aleshire Individual high 3-game total: Ryan Ertl Team high single game: The Blue Line Team high 3-game total: SR Legion League standings The Blue Line Upper Deck Sartell Hardware Hank
SR Legion 288 Greenkeepers ATS 722 St. Cloud Hyundai
1314 Highlights Aaron Schultz: 693 3672 Chris Aleshire: 691 Gregory Steinkopf: 674 64-41 Richard 58-47 Gardner: 674 53.5-51.5 Rick Turch: 663
46-59 46-59 45-60 43-62
BY ANNA SALDANA STAFF WRITER The Storm girls soccer team is kicking their way to the second round of playoffs after a 2-1 win over Little Falls Oct. 12. The Thursday night win marks the second win over Little Falls in a week, after SRR defeated them 4-1 Oct. 9. The girls also played St. Cloud Apollo Oct. 5, winning 4-1. SRR 2, Little Falls 1 The Storm had a slow Àrst half Oct. 12 in the Àrst game of playoffs, allowing a Flyers goal. The Storm responded with two goals of their own in the second half. The Àrst came from Emma Plemel six minutes in. Kaylee Kulus followed with a second goal four minutes later. The girls held up a strong defense in the remainder of the game and Sydney Plemel made several saves to help secure the win. SRR 4, Little Falls 1 The Storm opened scoring 10 minutes into play Oct. 9 against Little Falls. Chloe Stockinger scored the Àrst goal, followed by a goal from E. Plemel shortly thereafter. Tessa Fernholz added two more goals for SRR in the second half to secure the win. S. Plemel helped the Storm earn their win with Àve saves in the net. SRR 4, St. Cloud Apollo 1 Stockinger was the lead scorer for the Storm in their
Oct. 5 matchup against St. Cloud Apollo. Stockinger scored three of the four goals for SRR, making it her second hat trick of the week. “It’s awesome to score and be able to help out the team,” Stockinger said. “I think our team has been playing very well this week. It’s a great time to be playing our best soccer of the season.” Stockinger scored her Àrst goal three minutes into play, her second goal 36 minutes into the Àrst half and then her third with Àve second left of play. Caitlin Schreiner put in the other Storm goal. S. Plemel saved 13 shots for the Storm during the game.
Lumberjacks from page 1B
exciting for Granite City fans. Bissett rocketed the puck passed the goalie, upending Earls’s water bottle at 2:22. The Whalers cooled the game for much of the period, but the Jacks capitalized on a Ànal power play. Granite City slowed down the play, making calculated passes where the puck found itself at the top of the zone. Reid Morin deked the Whalers into thinking he was to pass to his defenseman. Instead, Morin shot and scored — ending the game 10-0. Di Bari led the team with four assists; Jordan Olson tallied three; Logan Neu, Schwehr and Moran each notched two; and Altena, Jake Van Halbeck and Brandon Baker earned one assist point each. Earls completed the game saving 18 of 27 shots on goal, Larsen one of two. Mulligan fended off 15 opposing pucks. The Whalers recorded 45 minutes on 10 minor infractions, one major and one game ejection, while Granite City sat 16 minutes on eight minor infractions. Granite City takes on the WarHawks Oct. 14 as they travel to the Willmar Civic Center Arena.
COME AND SEE US IN WILLMAR TONIGHT! DATE
TIME
Sat., Oct. 14 7:30 PM Fri., Oct. 20
Corey Brown: 656 Bruce Arnold: 633 Curt Dingmann: 628 Jason Terwey: 625 Levi Radika: 621 Kevin Kruse: 603
PHOTO BY ANNA SALDANA
Emma Plemel Àghts for the ball early in the second half of the Oct. 12 playoff game against Little Falls. Shortly after gaining possession, she scored the Àrst goal of the game for the Storm.
7:00 PM
Sat., Oct. 21 2:00 PM
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Go Storm!
Soccer team advances
cross country
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PAGE 2B | SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2017 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD
Public Notices PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE OF PROPOSED PROPERTY SALE The Housing and Redevelopment Authority in and for the City of Sauk Rapids, Minnesota (the “HRA”) gives notice that it will hold a public hearing on November 7, 2017, at 6:00 p.m., or as soon after that as can be heard, at Sauk Rapids City Hall, at 250 Summit Avenue North, Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, to hear all persons present upon the HRA’s proposed sale of real property located at 1005 3rd Avenue South, Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, legally described as Lot Seven (7), Block Two (2), Leech’s Addition to the Original Town (now City) of Sauk Rapids, Benton County, Minnesota, to Jerome E. Rau and Diane G. Rau. The proposed terms and conditions of the property sale are available for review and inspection at the ofÀce of the Community Development Director, City of Sauk Rapids, Sauk Rapids City Government Center, 250 Summit Avenue North, Sauk Rapids, MN during normal business hours. R-42-1B
2017 2017 NFL NFL SUNDAY SUNDAY TICKET TICKET INCLUDED INCLUDED AT AT NO NO EXTRA EXTRA COST COST WHEN WHEN YOU YOU SWITCH SWITCH TO TO DIRECTV. DIRECTV. With CHOICETM Package and above. Subscription renews automatically each season at then-prevailing rate (currently $281.94/season) unless you call to cancel prior to the start of the season. Req’s you to select offer. Out-of-market games only. Select international games excluded.
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Renews at full price. Offer ends 11/04/17. New approved customers only, lease required. Hardware and programming available separately. Other conditions apply. NFL, the NFL Shield design and the NFL SUNDAY TICKET name and logo are registered trademarks of the NFL and its affiliates. ©2017 AT&T Intellectual Property. All Rights Reserved. AT&T, Globe logo, DIRECTV, and all other DIRECTV marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
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PUBLIC NOTICE OF AUCTION (OfÀcial Publication) Public Storage, Inc. PS Orangeco, Inc. and/or Shurgad TRS, Inc. will conduct Sales at Public Storage located at Public Storage Self-Storage, Sauk Rapids 25553, 1111 Franklin Ave., Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 NOTICE OF SALE AND DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell at public auction on October 25, 2017, personal property including but not limited to furniture, clothing, tools and/or other household items at 9:30 a.m. The name of the person(s) whose personal property is to be sold is as follows 1103 Smith, Beth 1123 Tracker, Derrick 1309 Capetillo, Anthony 1314 Scuteri, Michael 1317 Kowalenko, Jermaine 1340 Forrest, Garrett 1436 Lafrance, Christine 1439 Styles, Joesph 1522 Mosley, Esther 2618 Thomas, Andrea 3212 Maher, Colleen 4110 Will, Kurt 4114 Brown, Erica R-41-2B
NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THE RIGHT TO VERIFICATION OF THE DEBT AND IDENTITY OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY LAW IS NOT AFFECTED BY THIS ACTION. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that default has occurred in conditions of the following described mortgage: DATE OF MORTGAGE: November 22, 2006 M O RT G A G O R : Richard A Anderson and Tina A Anderson, husband and wife. MORTGAGEE: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for U.S. Bank N.A. its successors and assigns. DATE AND PLACE OF RECORDING: Recorded January 17, 2007 Benton County Recorder, Document No. A345253. ASSIGNMENTS OF MORTGAGE: Assigned to: U.S. Bank N.A.. Dated July 29, 2009 Recorded August 7, 2009, as Document No. A368021. TRANSACTION AGENT: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. TRANSACTION AGENT’S MORTGAGE I D E N T I F I C AT I O N NUMBER ON MORTGAGE: 100021278831009217 LENDER OR BROKER AND MORTGAGE ORIGINATOR STATED ON MORTGAGE: U.S. Bank N.A. R E S I D E N T I A L MORTGAGE SERVICER: U.S. Bank National Association M O R T G A G E D PROPERTY ADDRESS: 10225 Rose Anna Beach Road Northwest, Rice, MN 56367 TAX PARCEL I.D. #: 120114400 LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY: Lot Eight (8), Block
One (1), Roseanna Beach 1st Addition, according to the plat and survey thereof on Àle and of record in the ofÀce of the County Recorder in and for Benton County, Minnesota. APN 12.01144.00 COUNTY IN WHICH PROPERTY IS LOCATED: Benton ORIGINAL PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF MORTGAGE: $153,772.00 AMOUNT DUE AND CLAIMED TO BE DUE AS OF DATE OF NOTICE, INCLUDING TAXES, IF ANY, PAID BY MORTGAGEE: $133,457.72 That prior to the commencement of this mortgage foreclosure proceeding Mortgagee/Assignee of Mortgagee complied with all notice requirements as required by statute; That no action or proceeding has been instituted at law or otherwise to recover the debt secured by said mortgage, or any part thereof; PURSUANT to the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the above described property will be sold by the Sheriff of said county as follows: DATE AND TIME OF SALE: November 14, 2017 at 10:00 AM PLACE OF SALE: Benton County Sheriff’s OfÀce, 581 Highway 23 Northeast Foley, MN to pay the debt then secured by said Mortgage, and taxes, if any, on said premises, and the costs and disbursements, including attorneys’ fees allowed by law subject to redemption within six (6) months from the date of said sale by the mortgagor(s), their personal representatives or assigns unless reduced to Five (5) weeks under MN Stat. §580.07. TIME AND DATE TO
VACATE PROPERTY: If the real estate is an owner-occupied, single-family dwelling, unless otherwise provided by law, the date on or before which the mortgagor(s) must vacate the property if the mortgage is not reinstated under section 580.30 or the property is not redeemed under section 580.23 is 11:59 p.m. on May 14, 2018 unless that date falls on a weekend or legal holiday, in which case it is the next weekday, and unless the redemption period is reduced to 5 weeks under MN Stat. Secs. 580.07 or 582.032. MORTGAGOR(S) RELEASED FROM FINANCIAL OBLIGATION ON MORTGAGE:None “THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION BY THE MORTGAGOR, THE MORTGAGOR’S PERSONAL R E P R E S E N TAT I V E S OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED TO FIVE WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORDER IS ENTERED UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 582.032, DETERMINING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE MORTGAGED PREMISES ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING OF LESS THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE NOT PROPERTY USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, AND ARE ABANDONED.” Dated: September 6, 2017 U.S. Bank National Association Mortgagee/Assignee of Mortgagee USSET, WEINGARDEN AND LIEBO, P.L.L.P. Attorneys for Mortgagee/ Assignee of Mortgagee 4500 Park Glen Road #300 Minneapolis, MN 55416 (952) 925-6888 19 - 17-005662 FC THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. R-38-6B
PUBLIC NOTICE BENTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES SEPTEMBER 19, 2017
The Benton County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on September 19, 2017 in the Benton County Board Room in Foley, MN with Commissioners Warren Peschl, Jim McMahon, Spencer Buerkle, Ed Popp and Jake Bauerly present. Call to order by Chair Peschl was at 9:00 AM followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Áag. Bauerly/Buerkle unanimous to approve the amended agenda (add item: resolution accepting victim services grant funding). Ken Schiller (120-4th Avenue South, Sauk Rapids) appeared under Open Forum to state his concern with the proposal of Potlatch Corporation for clear cutting of trees at Bend in the River Park. He noted that he was part of the task force that created the master plan for the park, representing the Historical Society. Schiller referenced the wildlife in the park, as well as the monumental pines, stating that he could support selective cutting of trees, but not the removal of all the pines. Popp/McMahon unanimous to approve the Consent Agenda: 1) approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of September 5, 2017 as written; 2) accept and Àle Committee of the Whole Minutes of August 21, 2017 as written; 3) accept and Àle Committee of the Whole Minutes of September 6, 2017 as written; 4) approve Management Representation Letter related to the audit of the Benton County Ànancial statements for the year ending December 31, 2016, and authorize the Chair to sign; 5) approve Letter of Support for a City of Foley grant application to the MN Department of Education, and authorize the Chair to sign; 6) accept annual Emergency Management Performance Grant, and authorize the Chair to sign; 7) approve Benton/ Stearns Household Hazardous Waste Mobile Collection System Agreement, and authorize the Chair to sign; 8) approve Benton/Stearns Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility Agreement, and authorize the Chair to sign; 9) approve Benton/Stearns Agreement to Provide Advanced Inspector Services, and authorize the Chair to sign; and 10) adopt Resolution 2017-#36, authorizing Benton County Attorney, Philip Miller, to execute an agreement for Benton County to receive victim services grant funding. Chris Byrd, County Engineer, announced that bids for the bridge replacement project on CR 42 over Mayhew Creek were opened on September 8, 2017; Landwehr Construction Inc. of St. Cloud was the lowest responsible bidder with a bid of $264,479.25. Byrd noted that the proposed design (which includes two box culverts and three overÁow pipes) is a result of negotiations with MN DNR in order for the county to secure a public waters permit. Bauerly noted that the DNR requirement to add the three overÁow pipes increased the local cost of the project (not all of these costs are covered by the bridge grant). Byrd explained that this design will manage water Áow through use of these structures and not over the top of the road, up to a 100-year storm event. Popp/Bauerly unanimous to award the construction contract for bridge project 005-598-021, bridge replacement on CR 42, to Landwehr Construction Inc., as lowest responsible bidder and as recommended by the County Engineer. Byrd explained that, in order to receive the State bridge grant monies, an agreement must be executed between Benton County and MnDOT; the total grant amount is $150,510.70 (Benton County’s cost is $113,968.55, which will be paid from wheelage tax proceeds, for a total project cost of $264,479.25). Byrd noted that, per the bidding proposal, the project will be completed on or before November 17, 2017. Bauerly commented “…DNR’s regulations are going to raise our cost $30,000…it’s going to be local tax dollars…and they are going to hold the water back longer which is going to affect the neighboring farmers…” Byrd agreed that, in a high-Áow situation such as a rain event, this may be the case; however, he felt that most of the time the water is going to be conveyed through those two box culverts. Following brief discussion, Buerkle/McMahon unanimous to adopt Resolution 2017-#37, authorizing appropriate signatures on the resolution and authorizing signatures on MnDOT Agreement No. 1029158—Local Bridge Replacement Program Grant. Byrd reported that the design plans for the CSAH 29 project are about 60% complete. He provided an update of the design thus far—1) a trafÀc signal will be installed at the intersection of Benton Drive; with a trafÀc signal, lanes can be matched in with the existing bridge; there will also be a signal at the west end of the bridge; there are also trafÀc engineering beneÀts associated with a trafÀc signal as opposed to a roundabout; 2) roadway will be widened by a total of two feet; a center-turn lane will be added; 3) new impervious area will require construction of two storm water ponds; although most of the project is contained within the existing right-of-way, construction of the ponds will require purchase of additional right-of-way. Byrd also addressed construction phasing and trafÀc control/impacts during construction. He noted that, for the most part, the project will be covered by state aid dollars; a City of Sartell road project will be part of this project, but will be paid for by the City of Sartell. Byrd explained that, recently, MnDOT adopted an updated Cost Participation Policy. He stated that, while there can be a lot of project speciÀc nuances that guide the cost participation amount, MnDOT’s participation, for the most part, is limited to trunk highway purposes (if it’s a beneÀt to the trunk highway and the work occurs just outside of the trunk highway right-of-way, MnDOT may participate in the cost). Byrd pointed out that there are other funding mechanisms which may dictate cost participation by MnDOT, i.e. receipt of a Federal grant by MnDOT, legislation or direct allocation, or the project initiator—whether it is MnDOT’s priority or the county’s priority. He stated that a cooperative agreement is required in all cases; the agreement not only dictates who pays for the improvements, but also who maintains the improvements after they are constructed. Byrd pointed out that MnDOT retains the Ànal authority in determining whether or not they will participate in the cost of any project. Popp inquired if the Highway 23 improvement project would be eligible for cost participation by MnDOT. Byrd stated that improvements occurring on our county roads that intersect with that project may be eligible (if there is a trunk highway beneÀt). Bauerly inquired about cost participation by MnDOT for the proposed TH 23/CSAH 8 intersection. Byrd noted that MnDOT’s current proposal for this intersection (Restricted Crossing U-Turns) does not seek any cost participation by the county. Bauerly suggested that, within the next six months, the County Board take a formal position with MnDOT as to what the Board desires to see for this intersection and what is best for Benton County. Monty Headley, County Administrator, provided a summary of major factors in the proposed 2018 budget and levy: • The proposed 2018 levy increases 1.3% or $243,957 from 2017, to a total of $19,574,955 (Benton County’s average levy change from 2009-2018 is a 0.3% increase) • The proposed levy keeps the increase below the 5% expected growth in the County’s payable 2018 tax capacity, which translates into a reduced County tax rate in 2018 • The proposed 2018 operating budget totals $42,924,703, an increase of $156,029 or 0.4% from 2017 • The proposed budget includes the following “policy issues”: • Adds a full-time Social Worker in Human Services to manage workload growth from a new state mandate to conduct annual, unannounced inspections of licensed daycare providers • A part-time support staff position in the County Attorney’s OfÀce is increased to full time to provide clerical assistance in the Probation OfÀce; the position currently provides support to both ofÀces; Probation has experienced increased workload for support staff due to the implementation of “e-Àling” court documents • The proposed budget adds $35,110 for a new electronic timesheet system; it will replace a paper timesheet system used in the Sheriff’s OfÀce and an in-house developed electronic system used by other County Departments • $45,900 is funded in the Auditor-Treasurer’s OfÀce as the match
SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2017 | PAGE 3B
for a state grant to help local governments replace electronic voting equipment • The Sheriff’s OfÀce and Jail budget is increased $17,000 to implement a program of incentives for employees to maintain physical Àtness (with the goal of maintaining or improving employee health and potentially reducing work-related injuries) • Employee compensation and beneÀts add $361,462 to the 2018 budget; this amount funds a 2% general wage increase in labor agreements, plus step and longevity increases; the County will have no health insurance premium increase in 2018 • Increased spending is partially offset by $144,810 in additional County Program Aid; also, new Buffer Enforcement Aid of $73,000 helps to offset the levy increase • Refunding three older bond issuances from 2007 and 2008 saves $40,103 in the 2018 debt service levy • Moving to a private CPA Àrm for the County’s annual audit saves $21,000 in 2018 McMahon/Buerkle unanimous to adopt Resolution 2017-#38, setting the proposed 2018 levy at $19,574,955, and authorize the Chair to sign. Buerkle urged his fellow Board members to “keep an open mind” when considering setting the Ànal levy, commenting “…we (Benton County) try to keep our tax rates moving in the right direction and compress those rates to get them more in line with our neighboring counties…they may have larger levy increases, but they may have had greater growth rates…so we might not be compressing that rate…I’d really like to see some analysis done…to see how we are going to stack up against neighboring counties before we make a Ànal decision on the levy in December…we may need to make an adjustment so we don’t go backwards…(the Board may reduce the preliminary levy, but may not increase it).” Bauerly extended his thanks to the County Board, Administrator Headley and department heads for “helping to make Benton County competitive and not putting our businesses at a disadvantage to other counties… going from a tax rate of 77.74% in 2013 to 63.66% in 2017 is a good improvement...we are trying to draw businesses into our county…I think we are making good progress…” Bauerly/Popp unanimous to adopt Resolution 2017-#39, establishing the proposed 2018 Benton County budget as presented, and authorize the Chair to sign. Chair Peschl announced that the Benton County Board of Commissioners will conduct a Truth in Taxation public meeting on Wednesday, December 6, 2017, at 7:00 PM in the Benton County Boardroom. Headley explained that the current labor agreement with Operating Engineers Local 49 allows the County Engineer to establish an alternate work schedule during the summer months; typically, this schedule consists of nine hour days Monday through Thursday and four hours on Friday. He noted that the County Engineer wishes to extend the “window” during which employees can follow an alternate work schedule. Headley stated that the current language provides an alternate work schedule from Memorial Day through Labor Day; the proposed Memorandum of Agreement provides for an alternate work schedule from the last Monday in April through the last Friday in November—would be effective through December 31, 2019 and could be continued thereafter if desired by all parties to the bargaining agreement. Referencing the snow season, Bauerly asked if the alternate work schedule could be terminated at Thanksgiving. Headley noted that the proposed memorandum simply allows the alternative work schedule to occur in this window; the County Engineer can change it at any time. Popp/McMahon unanimous to approve a Memorandum of Agreement with Operating Engineers Local 49 as presented, and authorize the Chair to sign. Administrator’s Report: • Feedback from Watab Township and the City of Rice on the Potlatch Corporation Proposal to Remove Trees at Bend in the River Park (Jim Whitcomb, Property Manager, reported on his attendance at the Rice City Council meeting and the questions raised by the Council; Commissioner Popp reported that he has received a number of calls in opposition to removing the trees due to various concerns—Watab Township ofÀcials are also opposed; Popp suggested that “we bring back the Park Board and they look at other entities to get a plan to thin it or do something...” Popp added “to clear cut it, in my book, is not even an option at this point…” Bauerly suggested “…defer to the City of Rice and Watab Township to come up with a long-range plan…let them suggest something that we can react to…” Peschl commented “…this is a Benton County Park; it’s not a Rice/Watab park…” He questioned the life expectancy of the trees. McMahon stated his agreement to re-establish the Park Board, re-address the Master Plan for the park, and not allow clear cutting of the trees. Headley pointed out that, over the next year and a half, Benton County will be updating their Comprehensive Plan; perhaps a chapter on Parks can be included to guide the county into the future.) • Discuss Having County Board Forums with Employees (Results of several recent employee surveys show a strong desire on the part of employees, largely in Human Services, to have a forum with the Board to share concerns/issues. Headley suggested that the Board discuss this idea at a future Committee of the Whole. He clariÀed that it would be clearly stated that these forums are not related to “collective bargaining”; all employees would be invited, not limited to Human Services employees. Bauerly commented “…more communication is good…maybe one department at a time…” • Update on Space Needs/Schedule Next Space Needs Committee of the Whole (Headley referenced direction from the Board to explore possible ofÀce space for lease on the county’s west side; to this end, he presented an overview of a number of potential available ofÀce spaces that could work for Benton County. Bauerly referenced the county’s original plan to “lease for 5-7 years while we pay down our debt and then build something here…try the west side of the county for a while and see how that works…” He noted that one of the options presented would involve a commitment by the county to a “west side strategy”—moving part of our Courthouse west. McMahon suggested that the Board tour the buildings identiÀed by Administrator Headley; he suggested that Sartell ofÀcials be invited to the tour of the former Verso paper mill ofÀce building. Headley also noted that Centra Care is developing an RFP to potentially construct space in East St. Cloud; the Board has agreed that Benton County could be part of this RFP. He asked the question—does the Board desire that Benton County be a part of this new facility? Bauerly commented “…redevelopment of the East side should be a priority for everyone…” • Update on “County Priorities” (Headley referenced the current priorities as established by the Board—wellness; employee health insurance; safety and workers compensation; technology; LEAN/ continuous improvement; economic development; employee retention; and “making Benton County a great place to work”. He provided updates on the priorities of technology (three proposals received for new phone system—goal of 7/1/2018 to have “new phones on desks”; ongoing web page re-write with Civic Plus; Board approved new electronic timesheet system), LEAN (new group of employees has gone through LEAN facilitator training; all departments have
been asked to participate in at least one LEAN event per year), safety (implementation of a new online safety training system; working on development of a lock out/tag out program), “Making Benton County a Great Place to Work” (are attempting to address noted concerns of training opportunities, work space, perceived lack of recognition). Headley explained that the issue of self-funded employee health insurance has been a topic of discussion over the last several years; with the arrival of the county’s new broker, Marsh & McLennan, the County was made aware of the Minnesota Public Sector Collaborative Joint Powers Agreement, which brings together the counties of Lyon, Murray, Redwood and Swift, along with Southwest Health and Human Services, to collectively secure the services of a third-party administrator to manage each entity’s self-funded employee health insurance—member organizations also obtain their stop-loss and aggregate reinsurance coverage through one source chosen by the Collaborative. Headley reported that the Collaborative Board agreed to include Benton County in their RFP although Benton County had not formally joined the Collaborative (Benton County desired to Àrst know the costs and also if there was support from the county’s largest bargaining unit to move forward with self-funding). He noted that the costs are now known (new entrant fee of $25 per employee and a member share of the annual $2,000 cost of MCIT insurance) and the AFSCME unit has voted to proceed with self-funding; today’s request is for formal Board approval to join the Collaborative Joint Powers Agreement—if approved by the Board, the next step would be to work out a contract with Preferred One for 2018. At this time, Commissioner McMahon read his prepared statement as follows, in part “To say I am worried about moving forward with this agreement at this time could well be an understatement. Our Assistant County Attorney, Michelle Meyer, has raised some valid concerns with this agreement…I have a major concern of my own with the agreement…that administrator (Lyon County) stated that the JPA has not been audited, primarily because of the small amount of cash received and disbursed…a “legal expert” in the arena of JPA lawsuits, who is retained by MCIT for that purpose, stated she did not believe that this JPA met the requirement of MN law…perhaps the other counties involved never closely examined the JPA for legalities before signing…it is my opinion that at this time we should not approve the motions in this agenda item…I hope we can continue to explore a way to bring about our self-funded goals…” Michelle Meyer, Assistant County Attorney, stated, in part “…this is the Àrst time I’ve not recommended an agreement because it doesn’t meet the statutory requirements…you can’t delegate contracting authority and you can’t delegate the amendment authority…if they were willing to work with us…we could easily amend this agreement to be compliant with the law…at this time, I do not recommend this agreement…” Bauerly commented “…there is risk in everything we do every day…the question is what is the risk/reward ratio…I think the risk of doing nothing is also signiÀcant…sometimes the fear of being sued just stops so many behaviors and improvements…apparently MCIT has insured it…I think we should do it…” Buerkle inquired if the other county attorneys to the agreement have seen Attorney Meyer’s memo of concerns. He stated “…if this was an oversight on these other counties’ part…and they are now aware…they may want to correct it…we need to Ànd a way to communicate that for everyone’s beneÀt…I’d rather have all the partners have a decent agreement…these concerns should be a concern to those counties also…it’s always better to correct it upfront…” Meyer agreed that it may be worth re-approaching the county attorneys from those member counties; she is able to share the information, but not provide advice. McMahon pointed out that the County Boards are the ultimate decision maker; that’s who should be notiÀed. Popp noted that MCIT apparently reviewed the agreement if they agreed to provide coverage for the Collaborative. Peschl stated his support for approving the joint powers agreement. When asked the repercussions of not approving the agreement, Headley stated his understanding that Benton County would need to do their own RFP and evaluate the proposals received; it is likely that the county could not transition to self-funding on January 1st. Bauerly/Popp to adopt Resolution 2017-#40 to join the Minnesota Public Sector Collaborative Joint Powers Agreement and authorize the Chair to sign the Joint Powers Agreement. Headley noted that if Benton County is inclined to join the Collaborative, the County can opt out upon a 90-day notice if desired. McMahon clariÀed “…I’m not against the self-funding initiative…I think it’s a great idea…it’s a money-saving idea for our county…I just don’t agree with the procedure…” Bauerly noted that Benton County’s representative to the Collaborative Board can raise these concerns upon their attendance at their Àrst meeting. Popp stated his agreement, noting also that the AMC Chair from Swift County has had positive comments as a Collaborative member. Motion carried with Bauerly, Peschl and Popp voting aye and Buerkle and McMahon voting nay. Action to designate a County Board representative to the Minnesota Public Sector Collaborative Joint Powers Board was delayed to a future meeting. Buerkle/McMahon unanimous to approve a Memorandum of Agreement with AFSCME accepting self-funded employee health insurance effective January 1, 2018, and conÀrming that employee health insurance premiums shall not increase in 2018, and authorize the Chair to sign. Keith Carlson, Executive Director with the Minnesota Inter-County Association (MICA), provided an overview of the 2017 legislative session and its implications for Benton County. MICA staff members Nancy Silesky (Health and Human Services Liaison) and Ryan Erdmann (Public Safety and Corrections Liaison) were also present. Board members reported on recent meetings they attended on behalf of the county. Under Commissioner Concerns, McMahon suggested revisiting the language in the Development Code regarding Board district representation on the Board of Adjustment and Planning Commission. He also suggested having discussion at a future Committee of the Whole to set parameters as it relates to County Attorney review of contracts. Under Commissioner Concerns, Bauerly commented “…in due respect…attorneys point out the things we need to be aware of, but they are just opinions…I think that, as Board members, we need to do a cost/beneÀt analysis…we are paid to be on this Board to accept some risk…” Popp/Buerkle unanimous to set Committees of the Whole: October 9, Topics of 1) County Board/ Employee Forums; 2) Employee Recognition; 3) Long-Term Plan for Auditor-Treasurer Position; and 4) Five-Year Road Program; and October 24, Tour of Buildings for Potential County OfÀce Space. McMahon/Popp unanimous to adjourn at 11:45 AM. Warren J. Peschl, Jr., Chair Benton County Board of Commissioners ATTEST: Montgomery Headley Benton County Administrator R-42-1B