The meeting opened with a public commentary session where a resident presented a petition signed by 83 shoreline residents urging the board to limit boat traffic on the Cross Lake South Bay Sandbar. The resident cited the transformation of the area into a party venue with an overwhelming number of boats. The resident proposed a tentative figure of 10 boats and noted support from various local agencies, including the Department of Natural Resources. A representative from the Crow Wing County Sheriff’s Office acknowledged the increase in boat traffic since the COVID-19 pandemic, though noted a recent decrease due to poor weather conditions. The possibility of emergency resources accessing the sandbar was confirmed to remain feasible.

Board members expressed differing views on the proposed ordinance. One commissioner raised concerns about the impact on tourism, which is vital to the local economy, arguing that residents should embrace the influx of visitors similar to other attractions like the Brainerd International Raceway. Another commissioner pointed out the enforcement challenges and resource constraints.

The meeting also addressed public health issues, specifically a nuisance case on County Road 138 in Garrison. The property was cited for various violations, including improperly disposed household items and a lack of a certified holding tank. Despite efforts to engage the property owners, compliance was not achieved, prompting the board to approve abatement measures using Solid Waste funds.

The board then shifted to discussions about remodeling projects within the county’s Community Services and Judicial Center. Plans include expanding facilities to accommodate probation staff and addressing overcrowding by adding conference rooms. A bid from High-Tech Construction was approved. The decision emphasized a best value approach due to the project’s complexity, involving infrastructure improvements.

Budgetary considerations were also a focal point as the board reviewed a grant application for armor equipment by the sheriff’s office. The state initiative provides $4 million for such equipment, with the county seeking $424,100 for specific proposals. This includes a bidirectional amplifier to enhance radio communication in Breezy Point, addressing safety concerns for emergency personnel. The grant application was supported unanimously.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing local cannabis regulations. With new state laws in place, the board considered a local ordinance to manage zoning compliance for cannabis-related licenses. The county aims to evaluate applications within 30 days. The ordinance will also implement a registration process for retail licenses, with fees for initial registration and renewal. The board deliberated on the extent of local discretion under state laws, concluding that while they cannot prohibit cannabis establishments entirely, they can regulate their operation. This involves enforcing compliance checks similar to those for tobacco sales, with local law enforcement ensuring age verification and zoning adherence.

The board expressed the necessity of acting swiftly to establish local regulations, recognizing the state’s role in licensing while maintaining local control over compliance.

Finally, an update on ongoing construction projects was provided by the county engineer. The paving of a roundabout and a pedestrian improvement project in Cross Lake were noted, with efforts to keep the public informed through updates and communication strategies. Despite weather-related delays, progress remains on track.