02-07-2005 - Laserfiche WebLink

Commission Minutes--February 7,2005 2858 Mr. Vanyo said he understands the commission is being asked to adopt the Cass County Comprehensive Plan as a county ordinance. Mr. Berndt said he believes using the home rule charter ordinance capability may have some additional authority in the event of a legal challenge. Mr. Burdick said there has been limited use of ordinances in the past, and it does provide a good way to locate the document when it is needed. He could not see any disadvantage, if this is the wishes of the board. Mr. Pawluk said he supports implementation of the plan; however, the commission should be aware there may be some controversy in approving it because the plan will present some challenges in terms of growth and development. MOTION, passed Mr. Pawluk moved and Mr. Bennett seconded to discuss the Cass County Comprehensive Plan and set the date for an ordinance first reading on February 22, 2005. On roll call vote, the motion carried with four members voting "Aye" and Mrs. Sorum opposing. 17. CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT, Senate Bill 2301 proposal and amendments Kathy Ziegelmann, Southeast Regional Child Support Enforcement Director, and Social Services Director, Kathy Hogan, were present to discuss Cass County's position on proposed legislation, Senate Bill 2301, calling for the State administration of the child support enforcement program. Mrs. Ziegelmann provided background information on the North Dakota Child Support Enforcement Program, which has been state-supervised and county-administered since its creation in 1975. Mr. Vanyo said he has voiced his concerns about amendments to the bill, about counties paying 40% of the program costs on a permanent basis even though the state would be operating the program, and the addition of 2.5 full-time employees without a plan showing how the program would be operated in a more cost-effective manner. Mr. Burdick was asked to review the question of how county property taxes can be collected to administer a state program. MOTION, passed Mr. Wagner moved and Mr. Pawluk seconded that the Cass County Commission Chairman send a letter to the Chairman of the North Dakota Senate Appropriations Committee, on behalf of the board, respectfully requesting a plan that clearly indicates the anticipated cost-saving measures and organizational efficiencies under Senate Bill 2301; and voicing concern over the use of county taxing authority for administering a state-operated program and request consideration of an alternative state funding mechanism. On roll call vote, the motion carried unanimously. 18. VOUCHERS, Approved MOTION, passed Mrs. Sorum moved and Mr. Wagner seconded to approve Voucher No. 194,576 through No. 194,904. On roll call vote, the motion carried . unanimously.