Crow Wing County Hosts Open House on Transportation Feedback

An open house held on August 28, 2023, in Crow Wing County provided residents an opportunity to engage with local officials on the county’s long-range transportation plan. The event, which took place from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the Land Services Building, featured a presentation summarizing feedback from over 500 public comments. Tim Bray, the county engineer, emphasized the importance of community input, particularly on issues such as safety, congestion, and nonmotorized transportation.

During the presentation, Bray highlighted that the feedback received would not only validate ongoing projects but also guide future initiatives. An executive summary will be available on the county’s website following the meeting, allowing residents who could not attend to stay informed. Bray stated, “We want to provide another opportunity. What are we missing that we have not captured? Then we will move into drafting a plan.”

In addition to the transportation discussions, the county board reviewed several other matters during the meeting. A request from the Fair Association for a new addition to the livestock arena at the Crow Wing County Fairgrounds was approved. The addition will consist of a lean-to measuring 10 feet wide by 80 feet long, with an estimated cost of $12,950 for materials.

The board also addressed findings from a recent audit, focusing on documentation practices related to federal funding eligibility. A significant part of the discussion revolved around enhancing cybersecurity measures and ensuring that employees promoted to supervisory roles receive adequate training and resources.

In a notable personnel change, Kelsey Hopps was promoted to county attorney effective September 13, succeeding Don Ryan, who had served in the role for 31 years. Hopps expressed her enthusiasm for the new position, stating, “I’m super excited to step into this new role and continue the momentum that Mr. Ryan has pushed through for 31 years.”

The county also welcomed new hires, including correctional officers and deputies. Notably, Cassy Peterson, an accounting technician, has departed the county.

Further decisions included the allocation of $11,817.90 in Solar Tax Settlement funds to the Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport and a $50 donation from the Crow Wing County Fair to the Brainerd Lakes Area Drug Education coalition. The board approved grants totaling $203,000 to eleven organizations through the BLADE/Opioid Coalition. Notable recipients include the Breezy Point Police Department and the Minnesota Prevention and Recovery Alliance.

The board also agreed to advertise for sealed bids for a project with the Department of Natural Resources, aimed at resurfacing Lily Pad Road, which provides access to Goodrich Lake. Additionally, a reclassification of a parcel sold to Brainerd in April as conservation land was supported. This 32.06-acre forested area is located within a floodplain, stretching from Bluff Avenue to the Mississippi River.

A budget amendment of $1,610,000 for the tax-forfeited fund expenditures was approved, along with a purchase agreement for over 3,141 acres of land in Mission Township. This acquisition is expected to generate timber sales, funding park maintenance while consolidating public land.

Lastly, the board authorized a joint powers agreement for the Work Release Program, with state payments set at $75 per day for state offenders. A new agreement with Network Communications International Corp. will provide video visitation services for inmates, ensuring communication access for at least 16 hours daily. The agreement runs from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2030, with no installation costs for the county.

The meeting concluded with an emphasis on community engagement and the importance of ongoing public input in shaping the future of Crow Wing County.