Clay County Board Examines Cannabis Zoning Amidst Budget and Staffing Debates

Overview: The Clay County Board of Commissioners discussed several topics during their recent meeting, including a proposed amendment to allow cannabis businesses in the Agricultural Service Center (ASC) zoning district, potential budget adjustments, and staffing strategies amidst financial constraints.

Clay County Board Grapples with Public Health Staffing Amid Leadership Transition

Overview: The Clay County Board of Commissioners meeting on September 23 grappled with key public health staffing decisions, particularly concerning the hiring of a full-time sanitarian and the implications of a new delegation agreement with the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).

Clay County Board Approves Event Center Expansion Amid Minimal Public Opposition

Overview: The Clay County Board of Commissioners approved a conditional use permit for Roy and Terresa Gilbertson to expand their event center in Glendon, Minnesota. This decision came after a public hearing where no opposition was voiced, allowing the Gilbertsons to utilize newly acquired property for overflow parking and potential new amenities, aligning with county development plans. Additionally, the meeting addressed a mining permit amendment request and a garage conversion near Silver Lake, highlighting ongoing development initiatives in the county.

Clay County Grants Variance for Garage Construction Despite Prior Denial

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Clay County Board of Commissioners approved a variance for Michael Ward, doing business as Benchmark Builders, to reduce the road centerline setback for an attached garage in Barnesville. This decision comes after a similar variance request was denied in 2020. The landowner, Kyle Schmidt, plans to convert the existing detached garage into part of the house and build a new one 66 feet from the road centerline, a 27% reduction from the standard 90-foot setback required for local township roads.

Clay County Commissioners Approve $300,000 Housing Levy Amid Budget Talks

Overview: In a critical move to address housing needs in Clay County, the Board of Commissioners approved a $300,000 levy requested by the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA). This levy, which is a fraction of the potential $1.8 million maximum, aims to fund programs aiding first-time homebuyers and low-income homeowners.