Cass commissioners meet in closed session on boundaries

WALKER -- The Cass County Board discussed in closed session Tuesday with County Attorney Earl Maus the status of determining the boundaries of Leech Lake Reservation.

Also discussed was whether a current zoning issue involving Players Club on Highway 200 east of Walker will lead to boundary issues.

No report was issued following that closed meeting.

Auditor-Treasurer Sharon Anderson reported the county has received more interest income than the budget anticipated on general revenue and health and human services fund investments so far this year, but less than anticipated for highway department funds.

The budget anticipated $233,333.33 through April for general revenue interest. Actual receipts were $356,156.16. Health and Human Services has received $29,904.10, compared with the anticipated $25,000.

Highway department funds have generated $10,968.60, compared with the anticipated $16,666.67 through April.

Cass will receive $34,498 from Minnesota Office of Environmental Assistance, funds collected as a tax on garbage disposal fees which is specified for use on recycling projects. The county provides a 25 percent match.

Pike Bay Township sent a letter to the county seeking half the 10 percent the county receives from state collected sales taxes on tribal sales.

It is Pike Bay's contention the township, like a county, where an Indian gaming facility is located, should benefit from this fund.

The county board referred this issue to the county budget committee.

A letter from JoLee and Jeff Higgins of Pillager concerning a reportedly unresolved zoning violation was referred to Environmental Services Department for a written response.

Commissioners Jim Dowson and Virgil Foster will meet with Martin Hecimovich concerning his letter to the board about deficiencies in County Road 141, Steamboat Lake Drive Northwest.

The board approved application for and agreed to serve as fiscal agent for a $20,000 healthy lakes program grant from Central Minnesota Initiative Foundation.

Public hearing on the proposed combined land use zoning ordinance has been moved to the June 19 regular board meeting in Walker.