The most notable topic of the meeting was the board’s decision to apply for a local Housing Trust Fund matching grant. This proposal, initially removed from the consent agenda for further discussion, was spearheaded by Eric Sharpener from the Housing Redevelopment Authority. Sharpener provided an overview of the state-allocated $1 million for matching funds in 2021, which was increased to $5.8 million in 2023. He emphasized that Crow Wing County, being one of the first to establish a local Housing Trust Fund in 2020, already had sufficient previous contributions to meet the grant’s matching requirements.

The grant aims to bolster housing initiatives in the county, including down payment assistance and property development. Sharpener clarified that the funds would function as a revolving loan fund, supporting ongoing programs. Despite the potential benefits, the grant application faced opposition. A concerned commissioner cited national debt and state budget deficits as reasons for voting against the application, underscoring their stance with, “I will be voting no on this… we got to stop this spending and I think it has to stop right here.”

Commissioner Franzine argued for accepting the funds, stating, “this money is out there and if we don’t take it it’s still going to be spent just not on our County.” Commissioner Ly, reflecting on his experience as a former mayor, supported the grant, leading to a motion, seconded by Franzine. The board conducted a roll call vote, passing the motion with Franzine, Ly, and another commissioner in favor, while two commissioners opposed.

The meeting also addressed a public health nuisance issue presented by the Community Services director, Miss Imren. A property plagued by waste accumulation, including tires and open containers, was deemed hazardous due to potential disease risks. With multiple attempts to contact the property owner proving ineffective, Miss Imren sought approval to use Solid Waste funds for cleanup if compliance was not achieved. The board resolved to declare the property a public health nuisance, approving the necessary motion.

Another agenda item was a proposed amendment to the county’s land use map. The amendment involved changing a 44.8-acre parcel’s zoning designation from rural residential 5 to rural residential 2.5. The Planning Commission had recommended this modification to balance residential development with natural resource preservation. The recommendation considered consistency with surrounding properties, which predominantly featured larger lot sizes. Commissioner Coring noted opposition from residents concerned about infrastructure and housing prices, but the board ultimately approved the amendment unanimously.

Roadway infrastructure also featured prominently in the meeting. County Engineer Tim Bray presented updates on new township-level roads, Sanctuary Lane and Sanctuary Path, which are part of a larger development project. Bray confirmed that the roads met updated standards after multiple inspections and adjustments by the developer. The board unanimously approved the acceptance of these roads.

Bray also discussed a RightWay settlement with Breezy Point, involving an easement for a previously used gravel pit road. The board authorized the County Chair to sign documents related to both permanent and temporary easements following a unanimous vote, despite lingering concerns about charging the city for the easement.

Additional discussions included the fate of a red flashing light at a Pine Center intersection. Amidst community feedback, a commissioner successfully advocated for retaining the light, with plans to install solar-powered LED stop signs to enhance safety. The meeting also covered an out-of-state travel request for Veteran Service Officer Eric Flowers and his colleague Natalie Peterson.

The Sheriff provided updates on community events, including the successful Fish Extravaganza, and reported an alarming trend in scams affecting residents. He also highlighted a growing homelessness issue.