Mr. Cone addressed the board during the open forum, vehemently opposing the removal of dust control measures on gravel roads. He shared personal experiences from residing on a mile-long gravel road, highlighting how dust from passing vehicles forces children indoors and poses health risks. Cone contested the board’s financial justification for the elimination, arguing that calcium chloride, used for dust suppression, is less harmful than sodium chloride, which is applied for de-icing. He also raised concerns about visibility issues for pedestrians and the potential exacerbation of health problems from pollutants in the dust. Urging the board to reconsider, Cone suggested that most county residents would support reinstating dust control measures. In conjunction with this issue, he revisited a concern about noise pollution from the Brainerd International Raceway (BIR), noting that decibel levels in his yard often exceeded 100 during summer, a level he claimed could cause hearing damage.

Following public comments, the board proceeded with various agenda items, including land use changes. Notably, the board approved a land use map amendment for a parcel in Garrison Township, reclassifying it from waterfront commercial to commercial. The amendment involved approximately 26.4 acres and aimed to facilitate general retail and service activities by allowing smaller lot sizes. A public hearing held earlier had resulted in a unanimous recommendation for approval from the planning commission. Despite concerns from a neighbor about potential developments such as mobile homes or trailers, it was clarified that the existing zoning also permitted such establishments. The amendment passed with a vote of four to one, paving the way for businesses like Thompson Concrete to potentially set up operations in the area.

Another approval involved the final plat for the Brainerd International Raceway Luxury Garages. The project, comprising 12 individual lots and one shared outlot, featured a conservation design accommodating smaller units with garage space and living quarters. This initiative aimed to address a lack of interest in larger lots previously proposed. After a public hearing and favorable staff recommendations, the board approved the final plat unanimously.

In a collaborative effort to tackle drug-related issues, the board discussed a partnership with the U Max Tribal on the Lakes Area Drug Investigative Division. The sheriff expressed enthusiasm for this initiative, noting increased activity and efforts to combat rising drug concerns within the community. The partnership seeks to address the reemergence of heavier substances and enhance community safety.

The meeting also included updates from county officials. The county administrator introduced Jory Danielson, who reported on a senior management team meeting focused on compensation strategies and volunteer tracking. Danielson highlighted the involvement of 36 Advanced Placement students from Brainerd High School in discussions about county government, noting the active participation and inquiries from students. There was a suggestion to extend similar educational opportunities to students from Crosby and Pequot Lakes.

Transportation concerns were addressed by the county engineer, who emphasized the importance of public feedback on the long-range transportation plan. Community input on daily commuting challenges was encouraged through surveys and an interactive map on the county’s website. Additionally, the engineer discussed a specific project concerning the bridge on North Coring Road, which has remained closed for some time. The St. Matias Township board expressed interest in the bridge replacement, having saved $85,000 for the project. Efforts to secure federal funding were mentioned, with outreach to congressional representatives and a prepared “bridge book” to support the initiative.

The board meeting concluded with reminders of upcoming community events, emphasizing the need for vigilance during periods of increased traffic. A commissioner recounted a successful town hall meeting in Crosby focused on property taxes and land services, which prompted requests for more such engagements. This effort was positively acknowledged.