After a public hearing without public comment Tuesday, the Sherburne County Board modified the county’s existing Local Option Sales Tax.

Public Works Director Andrew Witter said the modification is required by statute because the transportation project list has changed.

He said the one-half percent sales tax, which was approved five years ago, has been instrumental in getting projects completed.

“It helps fill a portion of  the funding gap that most counties see,” said Witter. “It’s been a great source for funds to help complete and maintain our transportation system for area commerce, safety purposes and encouraging development throughout the area.”

Administrator Bruce Messelt wanted to make sure the public understood it wasn’t a tax increase.

“It’s a change in the type and number and specificity of projects.” he said.

He also said the current tax would continue as is even if the board decided not to modify the resolution.

Admin Review

The board approved a salary increase for Administrator Bruce Messelt based on a performance evaluation held Aug. 20.

The summary of the evaluation said, “Mr. Messelt’s performance over the past year has exceeded the county board’s expectations. He has recommended and implemented sound policies and strategies and also has demonstrated a strong commitment to the position and the county. Mr. Messelt identified multiple goals for the upcoming year including, but not limited to, developing and implementing local cannabis ordinances, developing and implementing the 2024-2025 legislative platform, helping manage the 2024 election process (in close partnership with the Auditor-Treasurer), and continuing to advance internal and external communication/relationships.”

Based on the evaluation, the salary increase for Messelt is 7.75%, or a $15,618 annual salary adjustment.

Haven Twp. Agreement

The board approved a joint powers agreement with Haven Twp. delineating roles and responsibilities for completion of a mandatory Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) /Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for a proposed gravel mine operation in Haven Twp.

Parcel Turnover   

The board approved turning over a parcel in Big Lake to MnDOT that currently serves as a park-and-ride.

Assistant Administrator Dan Weber  said the parcel is a highly desirable location but deed restrictions limit it to transit use.

“The hope is by turning it back to MnDOT it could be opened up for commercial use,” he said. “This would be the first step to make it a little easier for MnDOT to get it back on the tax rolls.”

Other Business

In other actions the board:

• Approved reimbursement of $490 to the Becker Boy Scout Troop 92 for two separate invoices incurred during December 2023 as a result of their 2023 Cardboard Recycling Program;

• Approved  the reappointment of Michelle Moen as the Sherburne County Assessor, effective Jan 1. 2025 through Dec. 31, 2028 and administered the Oath of Office;

• Welcomed Brian Fleming as Sherburne County Economic Development Coordinator;

• Approved the 2025 Proposed Regional Rail Levy in the amount of zero dollars;

• Approved advertising for a public hearing on Oct. 1 to consider possible changes to the Sherburne County All Services and Fee Schedule.