By Julie Anderson, Douglas County Public Information Officer
Another resort in Douglas County is converting to private use. Vacationer’s Inn Resort on Lake Cowdry has operated in its location for decades. The owner asked the Planning Advisory Commission to approve a planned unit development where eight existing cabins will be sold individually for private use. Commissioners approved the request. Many of the cabins do not meet structural setbacks but any replacement structures would be required to do so. Land and Resource Management Director Dave Rush also said the owners have met all other conditions required for this transition.
Emergency Management
Emergency Management Director Julie Anderson asked the board to approve the updated County Emergency Operations Plan. The plan details the roles and responsibilities of the county, cities, townships, law enforcement, fire departments and many other stakeholders before, during, and following an impactful natural or human-caused event.
Veterans Service
Jacob Turner, Veterans Service Officer, asked the board to accept a donation of $1,500.00 from Robert Hegg to be used for veterans in need. Commissioners Jerry Rapp and Charlie Meyer made and seconded the motion and both thanked Mr. Hegg for his generous donations.
Social Services
Assistant Social Services Director Tresa Schmidt presented commissioners with the good news that Douglas County will be receiving additional funds through a Next Generation Employment Services Grant – a program designed to expand employment services for non-custodial parents in the child support system.
Douglas County initially received $21,891 and is now receiving an additional $38,367. Schmidt said, “We are the model site for the state of Minnesota.” Schmidt also asked for permission to enter into a contract with Rural MN CEP to carry out the grant by providing career coaching, resume development, skills training, and connections to job opportunities that can increase participants’ earning potential.
Public Works
Public Works Director and County Engineer asked commissioners to support an application for a road improvement program which will be coordinated with the city of Alexandria. The project is a future roundabout at County State Aid Highway 46, also known as 34th Avenue, and South Broadway Street.
Commissioners approved that request as well as one for Lakes Road NW in Millerville Township.
Items from the floor
At every county board meeting the chair provides time for input from the public. Mary Kay Vanselow-Middendorf came forward to ask for action on safer railroad crossings at County Road 86 and the shooting park. She said she walks in that area, and people are not stopping for the railroad crossing. She suggested flashing lights at the stop signs. Commissioners said they will contact CPKC railroad and get action on improved safety underway.