04-20-1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

Commission Minutes-April 20, 1998 1798 Mrs. Schneider invited comments from Commissioners and from the audience. Scott Whitmore, representing South Gate Stables, said his family began their business less than three years ago; and they feel this tax exemption would give Mr. Sonderland an unfair advantage over them as they operate a similar facility in close proximity to Mr. Sonderland's. Clarence Samuel, Fargo, addressed the board as a citizen of Stanley Township, who lives in the area of South Gate Stables. Mr. Samuel disagreed with a comment from Mr. Sonderland that his business will generate additional revenue as he believes a number of small stables in the area will lose business to Mr. Sonderland rather than new business being generated. Mr. Meyer said the county generally promotes economic development, however, the county's tax incentive policy references a new business to the community not gaining an unfair advantage over existing competitors through the use of an exemption. Commissioners received a letter today from John Goff, State's Attorney, in response to the Board's question at the April 6, 1998, meeting concerning the legality of exempting a single family residence to be occupied by an employee of Breezy Manor Equestrian Centre. It was Mr. Goff's opinion, upon reviewing economic development statutes, that the County Commission would have authority to grant a partial or complete property tax exemption on the application of Breezy Manor Equestrian Centre, which includes a single family residence, since it appears the house would be used in conjunction with the business operation. Mr. Wieland agreed with Mr. Meyer that this is a competitive business and said he cannot support the exemption for economic development purposes since it does not create jobs for a substantial number of people. MOTION, passed Mr. Meyer moved and Mrs. Quick seconded that the application for tax exemption for Breezy Manor Equestrian Center, Inc. be denied. Mrs. Schneider called for further discussion and hearing none, declared the discussion closed. On roll call vote, motion carried unanimously. 12. FLOOD UPDATE, Report by IN Rustad Irv Rustad, Lake Agassiz Regional Development Corporation, provided a hand-out on fund balances and reported on progress of 1997 flood mitigation projects. Mr. Wieland expressed safety concerns about open basements where homes have been removed. Commissioners discussed temporarily filling the basements with dirt until the demolition process is completed and basements will be permanently filled. Mr. Rustad will find out if program income from the sale of homes can be used to cover the cost of putting dirt in open basements due to the board's concerns. MOTION, passed Mr. Meyer moved and Mr. Wieland seconded to authorize Lake Agassiz Regional Development Corporation to make arrangements to fill all open basements in flood areas with dirt for health and safety reasons; and that Mr. Rustad mitigate the costs to the county as much as possible. On roll call vote, motion carried unanimously.