DNR payments to counties discussed

BACKUS - Recent state audit findings on DNR operations found payments in lieu of taxes the state makes to local governments for state land within counties "is generally more than adequate in replacing the property taxes lost by counties when DNR acquires non-hunting land."

This has led the Legislature to consider reducing or eliminating PILT payments, Land Commissioner Josh Stevenson told Cass County commissioners Tuesday. The state makes about $1.3 million PILT payments statewide and about $67,000 to Cass County annually.

The audit also found the DNR may be inadequately funded to manage the amount of land the state currently holds for natural resource and recreational purposes.

The county board accepted a $51,872 state Conservation Partners grant from the new state sales tax fund to restore pine habitat on 10 acres north of County State Aid Highway 5 on the north side of Woman Lake.

Land Commissioner Josh Stevenson said red and white pines will be planted on the previously logged parcel.

Environmental Services Director John Ringle obtained board approval Tuesday to implement a county planning commission recommendation to enforce the county zoning ordinances in all townships in the county, regardless of whether a township may have its own zoning laws.