County collects $1.5 million in property taxes in February

According to Eddy County Treasurer Kathy Anderson, 85% of the 2020 taxes were collected by the Feb. 15 early pay deadline. Township and school district payouts were made based on the amount collected, which totaled $1.5 million in February. Letters went out for properties with 2017 taxes due, as the foreclosure process has begun. There were nearly 50 parcels initially on the list, representing about $23,000 in unpaid taxes. Five parcels have been paid since.

The Eddy County Water Resource Board will continue with two members for the time being. The county has not received any letters of interest from residents to fill the position vacated by Peter Larson. Meanwhile, Monty Schaefer presented the Water board a maintenance plan for Rosefield Dam at the February meeting. It is currently under consideration by the board. 

The county received seven applications for the blade operator position. There are two individuals with the experience that meet the criteria advertised, per Weber. He, Williams and Gehrtz will conduct the interviews next week. The goal is to have the new operator start on April 15.

Discussion was held on purchasing a new vehicle for the road department. Commissioners agreed to obtain pricing for a three-quarter-ton vehicle, as it would be more suitable for hauling the trailer, sprayer and other equipment. They will look at the state program and see if a local dealer can match the price. Should a vehicle be purchased, the New Rockford vehicle will be moved to Sheyenne, and Sheyenne vehicle to Hamar.

The local Soil Conservation District is interested in partnering with landowners to plant living snow fences, or rows of trees designed to limit snow drifting and provide a barrier to slow down wind prevent soil erosion. Commissioner Neal Rud noted that some had been planted out by canal bridge on Steinbachs’ land. The trees are growing, so the conditions are getting better, per Rud. The trees are planted at least 200 feet from the roadway to limit snow drift on roads.

Next meeting will be on Monday, March 16 at 8:30 a.m.