The Wadena County Board was presented Sept. 21 with a request to make a decision for the reconstruction of the 4-H Building. Three estimates, ranging from $62,879.68 to $66,219.68, exclusive of electrical work, were presented.
Previously the building has been rented out for storage during the winter, providing an income for the 4-H program of approximately $1,750.
The board discussed the effects of reconstructing this fall versus waiting until spring; and if the building were to be reconstructed now, it could still be rented out for storage this winter. However, by waiting until next spring to reconstruct, FEMA Hazard Mitigation Funds would likely be available to aid in part of the expense of reconstruction.
After much discussion, the board adopted a motion to fix what needs to be done immediately for the winter months, reimburse the 4-H program $1,750 for lost revenues and appoint a committee to continue working on a best course of action plan for reconstruction.
Ex officio officer position remains vacant
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Rich Paper, on behalf of the Wadena County Historical Society, requested the board appoint one of its members ex officio officer to serve on its board, as allowed in the Historical Society's bylaws. The Historical Society meets the second Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. The board discussed the request and Commissioner Waldahl stated he would like to see a Commissioner in the ex officio member position. Two board members have other obligations that would conflict with the meeting schedule. Commissioner Schermerhorn recommended the board wait until after the upcoming elections before making such appointment. The board consensus was to take the request under advisement and make a decision at a later time.
Highway department report
Highway Engineer Ryan Odden requested approval for final payment to AAA Stripping Service Company for the completion of project 80-070-01 in the amount of $6,230.08 and final payment to Tri-City Paving, Inc. for the completion of State Aid Project 80-621-11 in the amount of $66,352.77. Both requests were approved unanimously.
Solid waste department report
Mike Hanan and Tammy Ehrmantraut requested the board approve a leave of absence for a Solid Waste Department employee. Granting the leave of absence would create a staffing problem that would need to be addressed. One option to remedy the staffing issue would be to allow one of the temporary employees to continue employment after the allowed 67 days. After 67 days of employment, however, the temporary employee would then be union-eligilble. The other option presented was to "borrow" an employee from Otter Tail County Solid Waste Department, at an hourly rate of $28, plus mileage. After much discussion of the board, a motion to grant the leave of absence and work with Otter Tail County to cover staffing shortages was passed. Commissioner Bounds opposed the motion.
In other action:
- Building Services Director Sean Uselman requested permission to pursue the purchase of a back-up generator for the courthouse, that is capable of providing back-up power for the entire building. A used one is available in Fargo. The board granted his request.
- Approved refund advance of $2,707.62 from Human Services to Solid Waste.
- U.S. Census Bureau presented Wadena County Auditor/Treasurer Char West with a Certificate of Achievement.
- Approved a bud capping contract for tax forfeited land with Bryan and Kira Reoh.
- Adopted a South Country Health Alliance resolution.
