Sauk Rapids Herald - March 25, 2023

Logrono named

Interim begins full responsibility July 1

BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

Sauk Rapids small business creates custom masterpieces

CW & Son Metal Fabrication & Woodworking represents tag team effort

BY TIM HENNAGIR | STAFF WRITER

Sandy Logrono is the next principal at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School.

Logrono was named for the position, pending school board approval March 27. As the current interim, Logrono will assume full responsibility for the high school July 1.

Following the resignation of Karl Nohner in spring 2022, the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District sought applications for the high school principal position from Jan. 6 through March 3.

Logrono page 4

SRRHS principal   Spring flooding forecast bears watching

National Weather Service briefs emergency directors

BY TIM HENNAGIR STAFF WRITER

The National Weather Service Twin Cities reports an increased risk of area-wide spring ooding.

The NWS has raised the threat of spring ooding to “above normal” in the watersheds of the Upper Mississippi River in recently issued outlooks.

According to the National Weather Service, the Mississippi River at St. Cloud currently has a 57% chance of reaching moderate ood stage.

Flooding page 3

Carl Weisenbeck can quickly trace the genesis of his Sauk Rapids custom fabrication business.

It all started with a friendly conversation involving the concept of reverse-engineering.

A woodworking friend in Wisconsin knew Weisenbeck was an industrial welder.

“He asked me to build an industrial table base,” he said. “He showed me pictures of his design. It was plate steel.”

Weisenbeck transformed the raw material into what looked like a sand-cast base from the 1880s.

“It turned out better than I imagined,” he said. “That’s kind of what got the business started.”

Producing custom metal bases for other woodworkers and preparing custom furniture and outdoor products began to take more and more of Weisenbeck’s time.

Weisenbeck recalled his youth, when at age 12, he needed a desk at home. He built it himself.

“It was nothing fancy,” he said. “Honestly, I needed help. My son, James, was about age 10 when he started out as a sanding apprentice. He’s moved up, knows how to thread rod, weld and do everything.”

James, now 16, is a sophomore at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School. Like his father, James designed a hanging desk for his room at home.

“He’s also a really good chef,” Weisenbeck said. “One of his teachers thinks he also has a future in writing. So, who knows?”

works full time as a signalman on the Canadian Paci c Railroad. He is gone four days and is home on the weekends.

That is when he lls orders for CW & Son Metal Fabrication & Woodworking.

“It’s not a hobby but a side job,” he said. “It’s a father and son deal. Sometimes, my wife, Michelle, comes out and helps.”

The only one who cannot help is daughter, Carley. She is busy with gymnastics.

Weisenbeck’s product designs come to fruition in his head. He also produces sketches for customers based on their ideas.

“Otherwise, people will just send me a photo of something they have drawn out on a napkin or a piece of paper,” he said. “I just get the dimensions I’m missing from that and ll it in from there.”

Weisenbeck’s preference is having a customer share their ideas and send pictures of what they like.

Brass and aluminum inlays are popular, along with industrial table bases and farmstyle tables.

Weisenbeck page 5

Vol. 168, No. 51

Saturday, March 25, 2023

James and Carl Weisenbeck, of CW & Son Metal Fabrication & Woodworking, share a unique father-son small business bond. Carl developed skills for woodworking at a young age and has passed these skills to James.

Same Local Coverage Since 1854.

2 Second Ave. S., Suite 135, Sauk Rapids, MN  56379

Sandy Logrono

Business PROFILE

Across America

Alloy Insurance serving the community

Alloy Insurance, a privately owned company, started its dedicated journey of providing insurance options to clients over 100 years ago. Allan Karki, agent and owner, took the business into his own hands in 2003.

“Our agency was founded in 1909 in Gaylord, Minnesota, where one of our locations is now,” Karki said. “We now have four locations.”

With offices in Gaylord, Norwood Young America, Sartell and, most recently, Eden Prairie, along with nine licensed agents between the locations, the agency provides help to many Minnesotans. In addition, their services are used by clients in seven other states.

“We have about 3,800 clients currently, including from the surrounding five states as well as Colorado, Arizona and Texas,” Karki said.

They serve both personal and commercial clients as a result of their technology utilization, Karki said.

“We strive to be the leader in the insurance business when it comes to our technology use,” Karki said. “It allows us to serve people well. Many people still want that local representation

– a reason why we are growing our physical locations. But these days with texting, emailing and e-signatures, we are not limited to serving people just around the local area.”

In addition to the enhanced communication modern technology allows, Alloy Insurance offers website services such as instant insurance quotes from multiple carriers. They also offer a customer portal where a wide variety of options like requesting auto ID cards and certificates of insurance are made available at clients’ fingertips.

“We have tried to build the online portion of our business to make it easy for people to do business with us,” Karki said. “We sell a broad range of products –

home, auto, life, business, work comp, liquor liability, professional liability, special event coverages, pet, farms and crops.”

Complimentary insurance reviews is another service Alloy Insurance offers.

“We are an independent agency, so more of a broker,” Karki said. “We don’t just sell for one company, which is how we find savings for people and better coverages than what they might have. We represent a boarder range of companies which we can check with to find people the right policies.”

Because each client has a unique situation, Alloy Insurance values its ability to find the carrier with the best coverages at competitive premiums, Karki

said.

“Alloy as a name is a concept of what we do for people with insurance,” Karki said. “We blend in the right mixture of coverage and rate to find a sweet blend of coverage and price. We try to find that balance for our clients.”

Being community-based means many of Alloy Insurance’s licensed agents live in the towns where they work. The agency also invests heavily into youth and school programs as well as civic organizations.

“We sponsor athletic teams and other extracurriculars,” Karki said. “We try hard to be an active community member in the communities we serve locally.”

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Jay Olson (from left), Darren Brix, Patty Boeder, Molly Krueger, Allan Karki, Michele Castellano, Alexis Eggers, Mike Feter and Kim Eggers are representatives of Alloy Insurance. The privately owned company has offices in Sartell, Gaylord, Norwood Young America and Eden Prairie. Not pictured is Trevor Dummer.

Gifts bring in grants

Over $12,000 raised for SRREF at Stars of the Storm

BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

The Sauk Rapids-Rice Education Foundation, a partner fund of the Initiative Foundation, packed the commons and Performing Arts Center of Sauk Rapids-Rice High School March 17 as over 600 community members came out for the annual Stars of the Storm event.

A talent show was accompanied by demonstrations and displays from the culinary, art, robotics and agricultural programs. Proceeds from tickets, the silent auction, donations and sponsorships will support SRREF, which in turn awards classroom grants for projects that go beyond the district’s

Rice Elementary School third grade students – Easton

McKenna Cool, Victoria Dusek, Grayson Forcier, Aubree Goerger, Piper Anderson, Emily Feia and Leah Schnobrich – sing “Make a Difference” during the Stars of the Storm event March 17 in Sauk Rapids. Brook Stephens, a radio host on Wild Country 99, emceed the event.

operating budget. Over $12,000 was raised at this year’s event.

SRREF has awarded over $122,000 in classroom grants since 2012.

Asher Peine sings and plays guitar to an original song titled, “Young Love,” March 17 at the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Stars of the Storm talent show acts were required to addition before making the final lineup.

COMMUNITY STARS

Castilleja named to academic list ST. PAUL – Macy Castilleja, daughter of Steven and Jennifer

list for achieving a 3.6 GPA or greater.

Saturday, May 6th, 2023 Lake George | St. Cloud, MN Registration opens April 10th www.namistcloud.com | 320-654-1259

PHOTOS BY NATASHA BARBER

Pickner (from left),

Freshman Ivy Shay, a member of the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School art club, throws clay inside the school commons March 17 in Sauk Rapids. Shay has taken a few pottery classes outside of the school system and said the artform is a hobby.

Schweim of Sauk Rapids, was named to the Bethel University fall 2022 dean’s

PHOTOS BY NATASHA BARBER

Community members pack the commons of Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids during a break in the Stars of the Storm talent show March 17 in Sauk Rapids. The culinary, art, robotics and agricultural programs displayed and demonstrated their talents to the crowd.

consists of Lydia Wallace (front, from left), Elsie Redman, Jacob Brouillet, Tyler Schreifels, Collin Shroyer, Benjamin Reker, Jerry Pantuvo, Emilia Almanza and Hunter Lavalle; (second row, from left) Raider Deering, Christina Lavallee, Darby Arickx, Kielon Faundeen, Justin Dober, Brady Salo, Corban Lunde, Cedric Mills, Skyler Teachman and Isaiah Lopez; (third row, from left) Elijah Wilking, Clara Noggle, Tristan Motsko, John Engebretson, Oliver Snavely, Joseph Olson, John Knoblauch, Zachary Riverman, Audrey Lo, Elsa Kirsch and James Brennhofer; (back, from left) mentor Lori Dale, Gabriel Godfrey, Logan Friesen, Logan Miller, Jake Machula, Benaiah Hinz, Charles Peterson, Noah Middendorf, Anthony Wolbeck and mentor Logan Payne.

Rap s -

PHOTO BY R. TAMM PHOTOGRAPHY

The 2022-23 Storm robotics team

NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF LANGOLA TOWNSHIP

Notice is hereby given that there will be a regular meeting of the Board of Langola Township for the purpose of inspecting and making recommendations for the maintenance and improvements of the township roads of Langola. This meeting will take place on April 12th, 2023 beginning at approximately 10:30 AM. The Board will meet at the Rice City Hall and proceed from there. Any resident of Langola Township wishing to join the road tour is welcome.

Anita Seviola, Clerk Langola Township R-11-2B

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Minnesota Statutes

Chapter 333

ASSUMED NAME: Buddy Built RC.

PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS: 4872 5TH AVE NE, SAUK RAPIDS, MN 56379-8705 United States.

NAMEHOLDER(S): Cameron William Oltz, 4872 5TH AVE NE, SAUK RAPIDS, MN 56379-8705 United States.

By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/ her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required elds, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath.

/s/ Cameron Oltz 01/24/2023 R-11-2P

ASSESSMENT NOTICE

Important Information Regarding Property Assessments

This may affect your 2024 Property Taxes.

The Board of Appeal and Equalization for Mayhew Lake Township in Benton County, Minnesota will meet on Tuesday, April 11th, 2023 at 2:30 p.m. at Mayhew Lake Township Hall. The purpose of this meeting is to determine whether property in the jurisdiction has been properly valued and classi ed by the assessor.

If you believe the value or classi cation of your property is incorrect, please contact your assessor’s of ce to discuss your concerns. If you disagree with the valuation or classication after discussing it with your assessor, you may appear before the local board of appeal and equalization. The board will review your assessments and may make corrections as needed. Generally, you must appeal to the local board before appealing to the county board of appeal and equalization.

Given under my hand this 20th day of March, 2023

Lawrence Thell Clerk of the Township of Mayhew Lake R-12-2B

ASSESSMENT NOTICE

Important Information Regarding Property Assessments

This may affect your 2024 Property Taxes.

The Board of Appeal and Equalization for Langola Township in Benton County, Minnesota will meet on Wednesday, April 12th, 2023 at 9:30 a.m. at Rice City Hall

The purpose of this meeting is to determine whether property in the jurisdiction has been properly valued and classi ed by the assessor.

If you believe the value or classi cation of your property is incorrect, please contact your assessor’s of ce to discuss your concerns. If you disagree with the valuation or classication after discussing it with your assessor, you may appear before the local board of appeal and equalization. The board will review your assessments and may make corrections as needed. Generally, you must appeal to the local board before appealing to the county board of appeal and equalization.

Given under my hand this 8th day of February, 2023

Anita D Seviola Langola Township Clerk Benton County R-11-2B

2023 County “SCORE” Grants Available for Solid Waste Abatement, Recycling Projects, and Tire Recycling

Are you looking for a way to positively impact your community but don’t have the funds to bring your idea to life?

Benton County is seeking to enhance existing or promote new solid waste abatement and recycling activities/ programs through our SCORE grant application process. Examples of recently funded projects include recycled material playground equipment, composting, and educational plays at schools. These grants are open to the individuals, public and private sectors.

NEW! Benton County Tire Recycling Program. This grant is now open for applications.

For more information about either grant program and to obtain application forms, please access the Benton County Web site at www.co.benton.mn.us or contact the Benton County Planning & Zoning at: Benton County Government Center, 531 Dewey Street, P.O. Box 129 Foley, MN 563290129, (320) 968-5065. Applications must be received by May 5th, 2023 at the above address.

R-12-1B

WATAB TOWNSHIP, BENTON COUNTY, STATE OF MINNESOTA

ORDINANCE #4 (Amended October, 2022)

AN ORDINANCE REGULATING TOWN ROAD RIGHTS-OF-WAY

The Board of Supervisors of Watab Township, Benton County, hereby adopts and ordains this Ordinance to Manage and Regulate Township Public Rights-of-Way. (It replaces the previously adopted Ordinance 4):

Section 1. Purpose and Authority

A. Purpose. The primary objectives of this ordinance are to protect public safety, reduce interferences with public travel, protect the public’s interest in its rights-of-way, and to provide for the ef cient and uniform administration of the Town’s road rights-of-way. The Board nds that the regulations, requirements, and restrictions, as set forth in this ordinance, are in the best interests of the health, safety, and welfare of the Town’s citizens.

B. Authority. As a road authority, the Board has broad authority to regulate what occurs within the Town’s road rights-of-way. This authority is found in Minnesota Statute

Section 365.10, Subd. 17, a variety of Sections in Chapters 160, 164, 165, 169, 222, 237, 368, and other chapters, as well as the rules associated with those chapters and all other powers granted to Urban Townships.

Section 2. De nitions

Section 3: Prohibition without Permit

Section 4. Town Removal of Facility or Junk

Section 5. Permit Required

WATAB TOWNSHIP, BENTON COUNTY, STATE OF MINNESOTA ORDINANCE #5 (Amended October, 2022) AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING EROSION CONTROL AND STORM WATER MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR LAND DISTURBANCES AND WATER QUALITY

The Board of Supervisors of Watab Township, Benton County, hereby adopts and ordains this Ordinance to Manage and Regulate Township Public Rights-of-Way. (It replaces the previously adopted Ordinance 5.)

Subdivision 1: Purpose

Subdivision 2: Authority

Subdivision 3: Scope

Subdivision 4: Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan: Approval and Administrative

Subdivision 5: Approval Process

Subdivision 6: Conditions

Subdivision 7. Inspections

Subdivision 8: Permit Transfer/ Modi cation or Subdivision

BENTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MARCH 7, 2023

The Benton County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on March 7, 2023, in the Benton County Board Room in Foley, MN. Call to order by Vice-Chair Jared Gapinski was at 9:00 AM followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the ag. A roll call showed Commissioners Beth Schlangen, Steve Heinen, Jared Gapinski and Ed Popp present. Commissioner Scott Johnson was absent. Gapinski noted the absence excused.

Motion by Heinen and seconded by Popp to approve the Agenda as written. Motion carried unanimously.

There was no one present to speak during Open Forum.

Motion by Popp and seconded by Schlangen to approve Consent Agenda items 1-3: 1) approve the contract for outside labor attorney services and authorize the Vice-Chair to sign; 2) approve the Letter of Support for Compostable Products Labeling; House File 1165/Senate File 2243 and authorize the Vice- Chair to sign; 3) accept and le the Administrator’s Report; Monthly Financial Report through 12/31/2022. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Karen Pundsack, Great River Regional Library Executive Director, presented the 2022 Library activities report. This item was for informational purposes only.

Next, County Assessor Brian Folden recognized the Land Services (Recorder’s Of ce) employees Cheryl Kantor, Katie Bursch and Betty Stellmach as our 4th Quarter Award Winners of Benton County’s Employee Recognition program. It is Benton County Policy to recognize workers that go above and beyond in their daily work. There are four categories of awards: Customer Support; Innovation and Ef ciency; Employee Safety/Injury Reduction; and Inspirational Leader. Cheryl Kantor, Katie Bursch and Betty Stellmach were all nominated by Folden and selected as winners by the Employee Recognition Committee in the category of “Customer Service”.

Next, Emergency Management Director Kristen Tschida requested the County Board appoint Sheriff Troy Heck as the Emergency Management Deputy Director. Foley Fire Assistant Chief Larry Nadeau has been the Emergency Management Deputy Director for 15+ years. Chief Nadeau has retired from public safety and no longer has interest in lling this position. It should be changed to an individual with knowledge and authority to run emergency operations and expend County Funds. Motion by Heinen and seconded by Popp to appoint Sheriff Troy Heck as the Emergency Management Deputy Director per MN Statute §12.25. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Wetland and Solid Waste Program Lead Sierra Cotter requested to conduct a public hearing on the 2023 Solid Waste Facility Licenses for Waste Management, Republic Services (Minden Transfer Station), Henkemeyer Land ll Inc., and Sandhill Organics dba Tri-County Organics LLC, Tom Kraemer Inc. dba East Side Transfer and Recycling. Benton County Solid Waste Ordinance #471 requires annual renewal of solid waste management facility licenses including a public hearing before the County Board of Commissioners. Solid Waste Ordinance #471 requires the Board to set bonding, and

Section 6. Permit Application

Section 7. Permit Conditions

Section 8. Permit Denial

Section 9. Work Standards

Section 10. Warning Signs

Section 11. Alteration of Right-of-Way Grade

Section 12. Cultivation and Landscaping

Section 13. Obstructions and Junk

Section 14. Unauthorized Maintenance

Section 15. Doing Damage

Section 16. Mailboxes and Signs

Section 17. Parking of Vehicles within a Right-of-Way

Section 18. Approaches, Culverts, and Headwalls

Section 19. Utilities

Section 20. Animal Waste

Section 21. Town and Contractors

Section 22. Site Inspection

Section 23. Enforcement and Penalty

Section 24. Savings Clause

Section 25. Severability

The entire ordinance is available for viewing in the Clerk’s of ce at the Watab Township Hall, 660 75th Street NW, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379, via email by request, and/or on the Watab Township website. The ordinance is also posted at the Great River Regional Library and on le at the Benton County Law Library.

Dated March 20, 2023

Kathy Sauer, Clerk Watab Township R-12-1B

Registration

Subdivision 9: Plan or Permit Amendments

Subdivision 10: Termination of Coverage

Subdivision 11: Technical Standards and Speci cations

Subdivision 12: Storm Water Discharge Design Requirements

Subdivision 13: Permit Review Fees

Subdivision 14: Prohibition of Illicit Discharges

Subdivision 15: Salt Storage at Commercial, Industrial, and Institutional Facilities

Subdivision 16: Enforcement

The entire ordinance is available for viewing in the Clerk’s of ce at the Watab Township Hall, 660 75th Street NW, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379, via email by request, and/or on the Watab Township website. The ordinance is also posted at the Great River Regional Library and on le at the Benton County Law Library.

Dated March 20, 2023

Kathy Sauer, Clerk Watab Township R-12-1B

insurance requirements and whether to have the facility pay into a test well closure and post closure contingency fund. The Board established the existing facilities requirement at a minimum of $1.5 million in liability insurance and a $10,000 bond, with none of the facilities having to pay into test well closure and post closure contingency fund. The following solid waste management facilities were issued licenses in 2022, and again are applying in 2023: Waste Management, Republic Services (Minden Transfer Station), Henkemeyer Land ll Inc., and Sandhill Organics dba Tri-County Organics LLC, Tom Kraemer Inc. dba East Side Transfer and Recycling. The above listed facilities are all in good standing with the MPCA; the above facilities had on-site inspections by the Benton County Solid Waste staff and appear to be in compliance with MPCA and Benton County requirements. The public hearing opened at 9:20 AM. No one was present in-person or virtually to speak. The public hearing closed at 9:20 AM. There were no emails, letters or other communications to be read into the record. The Department has not received any comments or concerns from any State agencies, cities or townships. No ofcial action was required by an affected Township. Motion by Heinen and seconded by Popp to set the surety bond at $10,000 and to set the insurance at $1.5 million as a part of the 2023 Solid Waste Management Facility Licenses. Motion carried unanimously. Then, Popp motioned to authorize the Benton County Board Chair to sign the facility licenses. Seconded by Heinen. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Interim County Engineer Mark Loidolt provided an engineer’s update. Loidolt shared that Benton County received a grant for $750,000 for the Mayhew Lake Road/ CSAH 1 and County Road 29 roundabout to be used in 2025. So far this year, Benton County has received $2.75 million of outside federal funding for roads. This item was for informational purposes only.

Next, Board members reported on recent meetings they attended on behalf of Benton County.

Under Comments by Commissioners, Popp addressed the letter that was received from Goodhue County Commissioner Linda Flanders regarding clean-up along the Mississippi River and asked if this topic could be brought to the next Regular Board Meeting for discussion.

Popp/Heinen to set the Committee of the Whole Meetings: Tuesday, March 14, 2023 Of ce of the State Auditor Central MN Listening Session, St. Cloud State University, Alumni Room, Atwood Memorial Center, 720 4th Avenue South, St. Cloud, MN 56301, 10:00 AM; Monday, March 20, 2023 Space Need Meeting with GLT Architects, Benton County Boardroom, Foley, 8:30 AM. Motion carried unanimously.

Vice-Chair Gapinski adjourned the Regular Board Meeting at 10:20 AM.

Jared Gapinski, Vice-Chair

Benton County Board of Commissioners

ATTEST: Montgomery Headley Benton County Administrator R-12-1B

BENTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

FEBRUARY 21, 2023

The Benton County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on February 21, 2023, in the Benton County Board Room in Foley, MN. Call to order by Chair Scott Johnson was at 9:00 AM followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the ag. A roll call showed Commissioners Beth Schlangen Scott Johnson, Steve Heinen, Jared Gapinski and Ed Popp present.

County Administrator Montgomery Headley requested to amend the Consent Agenda to add item #12 to consider a Collective Bargaining Agreement with Teamsters Local 320, representing Sheriff’s Licensed Supervisors, for the period of January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2025; and to add Consent Agenda item # 13 to appoint David Manea to the Extension Committee representing Commissioner District 4 (Gapinski). Motion by Heinen and seconded by Popp to approve the amended agenda. Motion carried unanimously.

David Wilson of 7585 Ronneby Rd NE, Foley, MN 56329 was present to speak during the Open Forum to address his concerns regarding the denial of access to Highway 23 for the Wilson Addition development. Wilson stated that he feels he was harassed and discriminated against because of his request for the access to Highway 23. Johnson stated he will need to talk to staff to give Mr. Wilson an answer to his concern.

Gapinski requested to pull consent Agenda item # 13. Motion by Heinen and seconded by Schlangen to approve Consent Agenda items 1 - 12: 1) approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of February 7, 2023 and authorize the Chair to sign;

2) approve the Committee of the Whole Meeting Minutes of February 6, 2023 and authorize the Chair to sign; 3) approve the Collective Bargaining Agreement with Teamsters Local 320, representing clerical employees, for the period of January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2025 and authorize the Chair to sign; 4) approve the Collective Bargaining Agreement with Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc., representing Deputies, Detectives and Court Security Deputies for the period of January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2025 and authorize the Chair to sign; 5) approve the contract with Greystone Construction for Highway Department salt shed roof replacement and authorize the Chair to sign; 6) approve permission to have access to CD’s at First National Bank of Milaca; 7) approve the amended agreement with Benton SWCD to Administer the SSTS Low-Income Fix Up and BWSR SSTS Grant programs on behalf of Benton County; 8) approve the Assessing Agreement with Watab Township and authorize the Chair to sign; 9) approve the one-year contracts for local assessing services for Sauk Rapids Township, City of Sauk Rapids, and City of Foley between Benton County and local assessor and authorize the Chair to sign; 10) acceptance and Final Payment for tied projects SAP 005-058-026 & 005-598-027 and authorize the Chair to sign; 11) approve the 2023 Federal Boating Safety Supplemental Equipment Grant and authorize the Chair to sign; 12) approve the Collective Bargaining Agreement with Teamsters Local 320, representing Sheriff’s Licensed Supervisors, for the period of January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2025 and authorize the Chair to sign. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Gapinski requested to make one change to Consent Agenda item #13 to change the name from David Manea to David Manea Jr. as the appointee to the Extension Committee representing Commissioner District 4 (Gapinski). Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Popp to approve the appointment of David Manea Jr. to the Extension Committee representing Commissioner District 4 (Gapinski). Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Land Services Director Roxanne Achman requested the County Board to consider an agreement with the Department of Agriculture to become an authorized lender of an Agricultural Best Management Practice (AgBMP) loan program funds. The purpose of becoming an authorized AgBMP loan program lender is to assist a housing development within the county in securing a loan to replace/upgrade their community septic system. Funds will pass through the County from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) to the homeowners similar to the way a bank would facilitate loans for home improvement projects. Statute allows for the costs to be collected through a special assessment process. The county receives the funds at 0% interest from MDA and has up to 10 years to repay the loan. In turn, the County may charge up to 3% interest on the loan and collect related fees. County’s may allow applicants up to 10 years to repay the loan. The County has the right to deny requests. It is currently the intent to only entertain requests related to replacing or upgrading of community septic systems. Each request would be subject to County Board approval. The County Attorney’s of ce has reviewed the agreement. Achman noted that this agreement does not commit us to lending, but it makes Benton County an authorized lender. Motion by Heinen and seconded by Gapinski to approve the agreement with the Department of Agriculture to become an authorized lender of AgBMP loan program funds. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Achman requested to discuss the application fee for the AgBMP SSTS Loan Application because setting the fee will require an amendment to the Benton County Fee Schedule. Of the counties that serve as AgBMP lenders, the majority have set a fee of $100 for the application to cover the cost of staff time to log and process the information necessary to begin the loan process. The processing of the application will include working with the Auditor/Treasurer’s of ce to verify all owners listed on the deed have signed the application, that property taxes are current and that the owners are current on their mortgage and/or property liens. Then, collecting all assigned liens that will be recorded against each individual property. The cost of recording the lien will be paid for separately and subject to the current document recording fee. Planning & Zoning staff will need to work with the HOA representative and contractor to ensure the invoices are received and then with the Benton County SWCD and Minnesota Dept. of Ag. to ensure payments are processed accordingly. Finally, upon project completion, county staff will need to complete the pro-

cess of a special assessment against all participating property owners. Staff recommends a minimum application fee of $100 for the AgBMP SSTS Loan Application and proposes to bring an amended fee schedule forward for action after a public hearing at the March 21st Board Meeting. Motion by Popp and seconded by Gapinski to approve the recommended application fee of $100 for the AgBMP SSTS Loan Application, and to bring an amended fee schedule forward for action after a public hearing at the March 21st Board meeting. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Achman requested discussion on the AgBMP SSTS Loan Terms for Eagle View Commons. In accordance with Minn. Stat. §17.117 Subd. 11, the county shall set loan terms that do not exceed a term length of 10 years or exceed an interest rate of 3% per year. In order for staff to nalize the AgBMP SSTS Loan Application and lien document, we need the loan terms de ned. Based on past discussions at the Committee of the Whole level, staff feels comfortable suggesting that the Board consider a term of 10 years and an interest rate of 3% per year. The project is anticipated to cost an estimated $444,000. The cost would be spread amongst 39 property owners, for a total estimated cost of $11,385.00 per property owner. This cost is only an estimate and is subject to change. It will not be nal until all invoices have been received from the contractor for work completed. If the Board is comfortable with the above loan terms, staff will bring back a resolution stating such. It is best to establish the loan terms based on individual projects rather than for the program as a whole due to how different the projects could be, to include the cost and number of property owners involved. Motion by Popp and seconded by Johnson to approve the AgBMP SSTS Loan Terms for Eagle View Commons and to allow staff to bring forward a resolution outlining the terms of the AgBMP SSTS Loan for Eagle View Commons with the loan term of 10 years and an interest rate of 3% per year, for a total estimated project cost of $444,000 to be spread among 39 property owners, for a total estimated cost of $11,385.00 per property owner. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Achman requested to establish a date and time for County Board of Appeal & Equalization or Special Board of Appeal and Equalization (SBAE) for the 2023 Assessment Year. The County Board of Appeal and Equalization or the SBAE appointed by it, shall convene after the second Friday in June and allow for 10 consecutive meeting days in June. Achman recommended the date of Monday, June 12, 2023 from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the Benton County Boardroom. Achman also recommended the following appointments to the 2023 SBAE: Rob Jacobs, Appointee Realtor for District 2 (Popp); Joe Scapanski, Appointee Realtor for District 1 (Johnson); Susanne Barkalow, Appointee Appraiser for District 3 (Heinen); Jason Tangen Appointee Realtor for District 4 (Gapinski); and Bill Eichler, Appointee Appraiser for District 5 (Schlangen). Achman also recommended a per diem cost of $150.00. Johnson suggested the SBAE Appointees be paid mileage as well. Motion by Johnson and seconded by Heinen to set the date of Monday, June 12, 2023 from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM; the meeting may not end prior to 7:00 PM; to appoint the recommended appointees listed above; and to set the per diem rate of $150.00 and to also pay mileage. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Achman provided a Land Services department update on the Planning & Zoning 2022 Activity Report. County Assessor Brian Folden provided a department update on the Recorder’s Report of Recorded Documents and Related Fees. This item was for informational purposes only.

The Regular County Board meeting was recessed at 9:35 AM to conduct a Human Services Board Meeting.

The Regular Board meeting reconvened at 9:38 AM.

Next, Headley requested the County Board consider the Non-union employee general wage adjustment. The County Board had previously approved a 2.5% general wage increase in 2023 for non-union employees on December 8, 2022. Since then, the County’s labor negotiating committee has agreed to a 3.0% general wage adjustment for 2023 for four of the County’s eight bargaining units. Headley recommends revising the non-union 2023 general wage adjustment to match what has been agreed to for these bargaining units, effective January 1, 2023. Motion by Heinen and seconded by Popp to approve the non-union general wage adjustment for 2023 from 2.5% to 3.0% effective January 1, 2023. Motion carried unanimously. Headley also noted how the increase will be nanced. Headley stated that it would cost approximately $212,000 to fund the wage adjustments and health insurance premiums, and that we would be holding some positions vacant to cover the cost. The 3 vacant positions are: the Safety Coordinator position in Human Resources, a Staff Appraiser position in Land Services, and a Social Worker position in Human Services. Headley added that these positions would be vacant for the foreseeable future.

Next, Headley requested the County Board to consider revisions to the County contributions to non- union employee health insurance. Last fall the County Board adopted 2023 employee health insurance rates and County contributions to health insurance premiums. The plan adopted then re ected the County paying 50% of the 12% premium increase, with employees paying the remaining 50% of the increase. Since fall, the County’s labor negotiating committee has agreed to new County contributions that re ect the County funding 80% of the single plan premium, and 75% of the family plan premium. Headley recommends that the County Board adopt this same “80%/75%” plan for non-union employees, retroactively effective to January 1, 2023. Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Johnson to approve the revised 2023 County contributions to non-union employee health insurance, re ecting the County funding 80% of the single plan premium and 75% of the family plan premium, effective January 1, 2023. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Headley requested the County Board to consider a Resolution to vacate County Road right-of-way in connection with the City of Foley odor control facility. The Resolution vacates an easement right-of- way adjacent to County Road

50. Such vacation reverts the land area to the underlying fee title owner. Vacation creates the conditions allowing the City of Foley to negotiate the potential acquisition of land necessary for its wastewater odor control structure. Once the Board approves the Resolution, the Resolution must be served on the adjacent landowners through civil process and posted for 10 days. Final vacation occurs once the County les evidence of posting and service, along with this resolution with the Auditor-Treasurer. Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Johnson to approve the Resolution to vacate County Road 50 rightof-way as described in the Resolution. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Headley requested the County Board to consider a grant agreement with Benton Communications to provide American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for the extension of broadband service to unserved and underserved areas of Benton County. The agreement provides $1,060,008 of the County’s ARPA funds as a portion of the local match to State Border to Border grant funds awarded to Benton Communications to extend ber broadband service to unserved and underserved areas of Benton County. Those areas are identied in the agreement and represent 483 addresses. Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Johnson to approve a grant agreement with Benton Cooperative Telephone Company (DBA Benton Communications) for $1,060,008 in American Rescue Plan Act funds for the extension of ber broadband service to unserved and underserved areas of Benton County. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Headley requested the County Board consider a Resolution supporting Benton Communications application for a State Border to Border Broadband grant and pledging County ARPA funds as a portion of the local match. Benton Communications has proposed to extend ber broadband service to unserved and underserved areas of the County to the South of Trunk Highway 23. Benton County would commit $2 million of the County’s ARPA funds as a local match for a State of Minnesota Border to Border grant project “Benton County South of Trunk Highway 23”. Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Johnson to approve a Resolution supporting Benton Communications application for State Border to Border Broadband funding and committing $2.0 million of the County’s ARPA funds. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Interim County Engineer Mark Loidolt requested the County Board to consider the MnDOT Detour Agreement. MnDOT is planning a reconstruction project on MNTH 23 and MNTH 10 starting this summer. During construction, MnDOT proposes to detour a portion of traf c onto Benton County CSAH 1 and CSAH 3 from TH 23 to TH 10 or TH 10 to TH 23 depending on the stage. This detour is not a full closure of either TH 10 or TH 23. There are two stages that traf c will be detoured onto CSAH 1 & 3: Stage 1: closing the TH 10 northbound ramp from TH 23 onto TH 10. Stage 2: closing the TH 23 eastbound ramp from US 10 onto TH 23. For the use of our roadway for the duration of the detours, MnDOT will pay Benton County approximately $6,514.57. Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Popp to approve MnDOT Agreement 1052517 and authorize deposit of proceeds of approximately $6,514.57 into the Road and Bridge Fund and approve the Resolution. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Loidolt provided an Engineer’s Update. This was for informational purposes only.

Next, Board members reported on recent meetings they attended on behalf of Benton County. There were no comments made under Comments by Commissioners.

There were no new Committee of the Whole Meetings to be added.

Chair Johnson adjourned the Regular Board Meeting at 10:26 AM.

ATTEST:

Scott Johnson, Chair Benton County Board of Commissioners

Montgomery Headley Benton County Administrator R-12-1B

WATAB TOWNSHIP, BENTON COUNTY, STATE OF MINNESOTA ORDINANCE #6 (Amended October, 2022)

AN ORDINANCE TO MEET WATAB TOWNSHIP’S MS4 GENERAL PERMIT—CONSTRUCTION SITE EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL AND POST-CONSTRUCTION STORMWATER MANAGEMENT REGULATORY

The Board of Supervisors of Watab Township, Benton County, hereby adopts and ordains this Ordinance to Manage and Regulate Township Public Rights-of-Way. (It replaces the previously adopted Ordinance 6.)

1. Authorization, Findings, Purpose, Scope, and Interpretation

2. Applicability

3. Exemptions

4. Permit Review Process

5. Site Design and MIDS Calculator

6. Stormwater Volume Reduction Performance Goals

7. Other Design Standards

8. Inspections and Maintenance

9. Financial Securities

10. Enforcement Actions

11. De nitions

The entire ordinance is available for viewing in the Clerk’s of ce at the Watab Township Hall, 660 75th Street NW, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379, via email by request, and/or on the Watab Township website. The ordinance is also posted at the Great River Regional Library and on le at the Benton County Law Library.

Dated March 20, 2023

Kathy Sauer, Clerk Watab Township R-12-1B

MSHSL from front

Though the Storm have quali ed for state tournaments recently in dance, volleyball and baseball, he said no Storm athletic team has won a CLC title in 13 years.

“Our conference is very tough, and that helps us compete at the highest level,” Klaphake said. “When we win a

section game in a sport in the highest class, that’s a massive deal. I’m jealous as heck of the kids who have played at Xcel Energy Center or Target Center. Will it be harder to get there in some cases? Yes, but that’s OK, and that makes the accomplishment even more special.”

Getting to a state tournament, Klaphake said, is the goal of many teams before the season begins. He said getting to state should never be the lone measure of a team’s success.

“It should also be about getting better every day with the ultimate goal of being the best each team and individual can be,” Klaphake said. “High school sports are about way more than just getting to state.”

He said the move will create challenges and put more pressure on him to dig deep to help coaches with any resources possible to help team’s be competitive.

Klaphake’s tone of voice con rms he is ready for it.

“We can decide if we want to be sad about this or if we say, ‘Let’s

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go,’ and do this thing,” he said. “I think we have to do that at some point. Needing to get better is good. Being challenged is good. I want my kids to compete at this level and know that it can push us to be the best that we can be against these schools.”

Parents: Brian and Jill Kothman

Accomplishment: Senior with Sauk RapidsRice High School yearbook class.

What do you enjoy most about being involved with yearbook? Encapsulating the many experiences that occurred this school year was fulfilling. We bring each memory to life on the page as well as tell the story of the pictures students have taken. I enjoyed the friends I’ve made during this class.

What has been the highlight of being involved with yearbook? The highlight of being involved with the yearbook would have to be the pictures I’ve captured of different activities.

What other activities are you involved in at school or in the community? I am

in my school’s drama program. I am also involved in Great Theatre.

What life lesson has being involved in activities taught you? Being involved in the drama program has helped me get over stage fright; it has helped me talk in front of a crowd and not be as scared.

What SRR teacher has made an impact on your life? Jan Lefebvre has made a large impact in my life. She was very patient and understanding and valued her students learning over anything. Her happiness was so contagious, which made class so much fun to go to each and every day.

What do you do to show your Storm pride? Participate in as many school events as I possibly can or show up to a friend’s activity.

What board or yard game is your favorite to play with friends and family? I love to play beach volleyball with my best friend Anna over the summer. I also enjoy playing card games with my mom whenever I can.   What is your dream job? My dream job would have to be something to do with acting. I want to do something new every day, and I feel like the energy of acting would be amazing to work in.  If you could travel anywhere for free, where would you book tickets to? Ever since I saw “Mama Mia” when I was younger, I have always wanted to run away to Greece and live a care-free life. The country is beautiful. It would be calming to wake up to an amazing view of the ocean and the sunrise every day.

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Garden & OME

GUIDE|2023

Regular cleaning regime increases residential curb appeal

A soft touch is best when it comes to exterior maintenance

BY TIM HENNAGIR STAFF WRITER

Hiring a professional exterior cleaning company is one of the best ways to eliminate troublesome dirt, debris and stains from the outside of a home.

However, many homeowners do not know the difference between pressure washing, power washing and soft washing, making it difficult to decide the proper service for their homes.

Homeowners should have an exterior cleaning done annually to remove accumulated dirt, mold, mildew and stains, said Andy McGeary, owner of Sauk Rapids-based Unique Exteriors of Minnesota.

“Once the weather starts to change, people get outside and start doing yard clean-up,” McGeary said. “That’s when they start noticing how dirty the gutters are, or in general, the house.”

Exterior grime can come from several places. Homes that are nearest to residential

streets and those on corner lots can pick up salt and spray from snowplows over winter months.

Trees that hold their leaves longer in the fall also create problems, McGeary said.

“Low hanging branches over the roof will shade one side of the house,” he said. “That will actually hold moisture. The same is true with shrubs that are located too close to the house. If there isn’t enough airflow, the moisture gets trapped.”

Soft washing typically makes a better choice for washing homes because it is safer and will not damage the residence’s siding.

A washer using highpressure water can warp or distort delicate side panels much easier than a soft wash, making pressure washing less preferable.

Using a soft washing system or pressure washer without the necessary experience increases the risk of damaging a home.

“Typically, with a soft wash, it will take about an hour to set everything up,” McGeary said. “It can take anywhere from two

to four hours for a general wash.”

More time is required onsite if a roof wash or gutter cleaning and soffit brightening is requested.

“We get calls from people who have tried their hand at pressure washing, and when we pull up, you can see where they’ve removed the oxidation but only in certain areas,” McGeary said. “You can see the lines where they have used a washer. When we see that, we have to remove the rest of the oxidation.”

Oxidation is the white, chalky coating that builds up on siding. A soft wash with detergent breaks down the oxidation. That process does not bring

back the siding color, but it vastly improves appearance.

“With a south facing residence, you are going to see more oxidation just because the sun is going to break down the siding and the coloring faster on the south side,” McGeary said. “On the north side, there’s more moss or mold, and that’s due to the moisture. It just doesn’t dry out over the summer.”

There are different types of detergents that can be used on metal or steel siding products, McGeary said. It is important to do a test on a small area of siding to make sure the correct

detergents are selected.

“Soffits are the most difficult part of the cleaning process,” McGeary said. “That’s because you have to be very careful with not getting water up and inside the soffit. And, they are just delicate Typically, there’s only one or two nails or staples. If you use too much pressure, you can actually pull it away.”

Noel and Cindy Johnson, of Sartell, had two homes soft washed by Unique Exteriors. The dingy and dirty exteriors became bright and looked new after the work was completed, the couple said.

Cleaning page 2B

PHOTO BY TIM HENNAGIR Andy McGeary, owner of Unique Exteriors of Minnesota, stands near his company vehicle March 7 in Sauk Rapids. McGeary started the Sauk Rapidsbased small business in 2014, working part time sealing pavers for landscaping contractors.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Cedar shakes are shown before and after a special roof washing treatment. Failure to schedule regular exterior maintenance will result in a build up of moss, lichen and organic material.

Cleaning from 1B

The problem with do-it-yourself pressure washing involves not having the needed expertise and a proper amount of caution.

“You have to be really careful,” McGeary said. “You can push water behind the siding. That’s going to create other issues. That’s why we use the soft wash. It’s a higher water volume but lower pressure.”

McGeary said he encounters two schools of thought when it comes to outdoor property maintenance, especially exterior cleaning involving the roof, gutters, siding, sof ts and facia.

Younger generations want the homeowning experience, but many do not want to do scheduled upkeep.

“They are willing to pay somebody to do the maintenance,” McGeary said. “Then, there’s the older generation. They’ve reached the point where they just can’t do it anymore.”

Gutter clean-outs require a special attachment to the pressure washing equipment when it is time to remove leaves and other debris. Exterior window washing is done with ltered, de-ionized water.

“I take a lot of videos for customers,” McGeary said. “They are amazed by the before and after. An initial wash is the most time consuming and the most expensive.”

McGeary suggests homeowners consider an annual or bi-annual cleaning plan.

“We can focus on the roof one year and the rest of the house the next year,” he said.

Victorian cottage gardens mix greenery, flowers to create classic elegance

Greenhouse owners offer seasonal plant selection advice

BY TIM HENNAGIR STAFF WRITER

The key elements of Victorian garden design can be incorporated into any modern garden.

People can cultivate them on their own –whether they live in the country or city and have a backyard large or small. The English cottage garden combined utility with beauty. Flowers encircled cabbage plants and potato crop.

Cottage garden owers found an ardent friend in the person who tended them. Such gardens were

productive spaces where herbs, vegetables, owers and livestock were raised together.

In the Victorian era, the style shifted into informal gardens crammed with owering plants. Victorian cottage gardens represent an idea, said Pete Svihel, owner of Pete’s Greenhouses in rural Foley.

“It’s a lot of greenery, mixed with a few owers,” he said. “A good Victorian perennial garden requires a lot of planning. You have to know what you are buying. Not only the hardiness but blooming times.”

One of the most important things coldclimate gardeners need to know is their plant hardiness zone. Cold hardiness zones are established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture every 20 years or so.

“We don’t sell perennials that aren’t right for zone 3,” said Karen Svihel, greenhouse coowner. “We know that some of our customers come up from the Twin Cities, but zone 4 really won’t make it up here.”

When a customer suggests a garden idea, Karen politely asks to look at the customer’s cell phone.

“I like to look at the photos on their phone,” she said. “I ask where they want to start. We may not have everything they want, but I can see if we can replace something.”

The more elaborate the home, the more elaborate the fence and gate. Cast iron was a popular material. Ornaments included urns, sculptures, garden water fountains, sundials, gazing balls and birdbaths.

Seating included garden benches, seat trellis designs and gazebos, which were made as decorative as possible.

Fencing was essential to past Victorian gardens. In part, it was used to delineate property lines. Gardens page 4B

PHOTO BY TIM HENNAGIR

Pete and Karen Svihel, of rural Foley, stand inside one of their greenhouses Feb. 27. The couple is entering their 19th year in business as owners of Pete’s Greenhouses.

Gardens from page 2B

Karen said natural wickers remain a common material for baskets inside the garden.

Pete said it is important to consider the four blooming stages for perennials – spring, mid or early summer, late summer and early fall. Do not forget about soil. It is 90% of the battle, he said.

Impatiens are great plants if people want loads of color. Their thicker petals and tough foliage are less prone to disease, and their strong, sturdy stems tolerate high heat and humidity, rain and adverse weather conditions. Double impatiens produce beautiful, rose-like flowers and prefer part-sun to shade.

Fuchsia offers an interesting form and color variety. It produces a beautiful, exotic flower with striking two-tone colors. These plants can bloom throughout the growing season in a shady to part-sun area and attract hummingbirds. Plant them in a hanging basket near a garden bench to attract the birds.

Geraniums are iconic, fragrant garden flowers. American growers first fell in love with the geranium

Pete’s Greenhouses

Containers of Moxie Dark red geraniums are planted Feb. 27 at Pete’s Greenhouses in rural Foley. These prolific annuals (genus Pelargonium) are different from perennial geraniums, a diverse group of plants that offers both attractive foliage and colorful flowers.

flower over 200 years ago. They fill hanging baskets, containers and flower beds with fancy leaves that are as attractive as the clusters of dainty blooms they surround.

“You can only keep a geranium alive in a 4.5inch pot for so long,” Pete said. “They get root bound. I do a later planting for people at the end of June. That way, I still have fresh looking plants.”

Victorian cottage gardening is a way to maximize space. Order and neatness is apparent along with a strong nostalgia

element, said Greg Loades, the author of “The Modern Cottage Garden: A Fresh Approach to a Classic Style.”

Pete and Karen have been in the greenhouse business for 19 years. Pete is celebrating his 40th anniversary in horticulture this year.

“A lot of people overthink gardening,” he said. “Focus on the basics. Don’t over feed your plants or play around with them too much. Remember, if your soil doesn’t drain, nothing will grow.”

PHOTO BY TIM HENNAGIR

Cutting gardens bring seasonal beauty indoors

BY TIM HENNAGIR STAFF WRITER

A cutting garden can ensure lots of beautiful, homegrown flowers are always handy.

Some plants tolerate cutting better than others, said Robin Trott, University of Minnesota Extension Educator.

Many of the best cut flowers are annuals, she said. Most can be started from seed.

“Growing them is not hard in Minnesota, even with a short season,” Trott said.

It is best to avoid cutting during the day. That is when flowers are under more stress. Only cut flowers for arrangements in the early morning or evening, Trott said.

“If you are cutting a number of flowers and have buckets, make sure they are in the shade,” she said. “Always put your picked flowers somewhere cool, in the shade or a refrigerator. Strip out the foliage you don’t need in the field.”

Use a sharp and disinfected tool to cut the stems. A dirty tool can spread bacteria and disease.

And, before placing the bouquet or floral

arrangement in a vase, remove any foliage that will sit in water.

“Cut the flowers right into a

preservative,” Trott said. “It will make them last longer.”

Gardens page 7B

PHOTO BY TIM HENNAGIR

Robin Trott, University of Minnesota Extension Educator, holds a vase of carnations and oriental lilies at the Stearns County Extension Master Gardeners Gardening Education Day March 4 in St. Joseph. Trott presented “Flowers for Beauty and Cutting.”

Gardens

from page 6B

Here are Trott’s recommendations for selecting flowers for a cutting garden: FLOSS FLOWER

(Ageratum houstonianum):

These flowers retain color. Recommended varieties are Red Sea or Everest Blue. “It is a great cut flower because it fills in the spaces,” Trott said. “You want your main star flowers, but you also want the fillers.”

LOVE-LIES-BLEEDING

(Amaranthus caudatus):

Recommended varieties are Green Thumb, Dreadlocks, Autumn Touch and Velvet Curtains.

“Planting in a 9-by-9 configuration encourages them to be tall, strong and straight,” Trott said.

Laceflower

(Ammi majus): These flowers last five to eight days fresh. Dry them two to three weeks in a dark, dry place. “Chocolate is really popular,” Trott said. “Follow the directions and start from seed. It’s March. You need to start them soon.”

Snapdragons

(Antirrhinum majus): Recommended varieties include Rocket, Liberty, Twist, Chantilly and Madame Butterfly. Early season snapdragons are Trott’s favorites. “They get really tall,” Trott said. “They like cold weather.”

Plumed cockscomb or silver cockscomb

(Celosia argentea): This annual comes in many colors. “The seeds are very tiny,” Trott said. “You have to be very patient with them. They get really big and tall.”

Mexican aster

(Cosmos bipinnatus): Recommended cut varieties include Versailles or Double Click. Harvest when the buds show color. “If you are cutting it, and you are going to give a boutique to somebody, don’t wait until the flower looks spectacular. That’s too late,” Trott said. “It won’t last long.”

Blue lace flower

(Didiscus coerulea): The lavender-blue flat flower heads of this heirloom resemble Queen Anne’s lace. Its bountiful flowers, curving stems and delicate, deeply lobed leaves are graceful additions to cottage and cutting gardens.

Globe amaranth

(Gomphrena globosa): Like most true annuals, globe is a compact plant with upward growing stems that produce cheerful clover-like bracts in a lovely magenta color over a long bloom period. Strawberry Fields and Fireworks are common varieties. “It’s easy to grow, and it’s easy to dry,” Trott said.

Commons sunflower

(Helianthus annuus): Harvest when one to two petals begin to lift off the face. Recommended varieties include Lemon Queen, Sungold, Floristan, Moulin Rouge, Prado Red, Ring of Fire, Sunrich and Cherry Rose. “Sunflowers

that are fully open last about three or four days before the petals start falling off,” Trott said. “Start picking them when the petals start lifting off of the face.”

Sweet pea

(Lathyrus odoratus):

This annual was introduced into English country gardeners in the late 1600s. These vining plants need support with a trellis or stakes. Floral preservatives and cool temperatures are necessary when harvesting. “Sweet Pea is such a pretty, cool season flower,” Trott said.

Love-in-a-mist

(Nigella damascena): It is best to harvest when these flowers are open or pods form. This flower works well with cottage garden annuals. Miss Jekyll has soft blue, semidouble flowers. Persian Jewels are a mixture of shades of mauve, lavender, purple, rose, light blue and white double flowers. The flowers and the green and burgundy seed pods can be used in fresh or dried arrangements.

Marigolds (Tagetes): Common types include French, African and Signet. These lowmaintenance plants thrive in full sun locations and provide abundant blooms until frost. Blossoms can be orange, yellow, red, gold, copper, brass, white or a combination. Marigolds benefit from

deadheading.

Benary’s Giant

(Zinnia elegans):

Zinnias have a wide range of heights, growth habits and flower colors.

There are three distinct flower types based on floral structure: single, double and semi-double.

Zinnias work great in displays due to a wide color range and petals per

head. Change the water every two days once cut. “Their colors are striking,” Trott said. “You have to go through and deadhead them.”