03-05-2007 - Laserfiche WebLink

Commission Minutes-March 5, 2007 3183 Mr. Newman said the additional 10 to 20 cents paid per bushel of corn will amount to an additional $5 to $7 million in revenue for growers. Mr. Vanyo asked about the possibility of changing the plant to produce another product, if necessary. Mr. Newman said the facility could be modified, but feels corn is the most efficient feed stock. Mr. Vanyo also questioned whether an ample water supply will be available and Mr. Newman said their company is looking at ways to re-use water and is fairly certain the supply will be available. Keith Berndt, County Engineer, discussed the township road between Cass County Highway 10 and Interstate 94, approximately 2 % miles west of the Casselton interchange located in Casselton and Everest Townships. He said a two-mile segment will require improvements to support the level of truck traffic created as a result of the new plant and the townships prefer to add the road to the county system. Cost estimates for improvements range from $1.5 to $1.8 million and if the county is the lead agency in construction, a portion of the costs may be funded with a special allotment of federal highway funds and potential grant funds. He suggested, if approved, the county fund $20,000 toward construction costs and anything not funded by federal or state sources will be provided by the developer. The chairman opened the public hearing and invited comments from the audience. Herb Ulmer, Casselton Township Board member, was present. He feels the projected revenue for farmers is conservative and fully supports the project. Bob Runck, Casselton Township Board member, was present. He also supports the project. He has not heard any negative comments and feels the plant will bring more business to the Casselton area. David Habiger, resident of rural Amenia, was present. He is in favor of the project but is concerned with the property tax exemption. He feels the business should deal with its own money and not rely on any tax breaks. Scott Kost, resident of Casselton, was present. He serves on the Central Cass School Board and has heard nothing but favorable comments and supports the project. The chairman asked for any further comments and hearing none, the public hearing was closed. Mr. Vanyo said he supports social justice; however, the county seldom sees this kind of opportunity and the benefits of this project will help lower property taxes for all citizens. He said if property tax incentives are not offered, the county will lose these types of businesses. MOTION, passed Mr. Vanyo moved and Mr. Bennett seconded to approve a property tax exemption for Tharaldson Ethanol Plant I LLC located in that part of Section 33, Township 140 North, of Range 52 West of the Fifth Principal Meridian, south of the Burlington Northern Railroad tracks, according to the ten-year exemption schedule in the Cass County Commission Policy Manual, Tax Incentive Policy Section 34.00. Discussion: Mr. Wagner said this business will generate :1;4::; million in wogea ond feela It will benefit taxpayers. On roll call vote, the motion carried unanimously.