PROCEEDINGS OF THE MURRAY COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

AS THE DRAINAGE AUTHORITY FOR MURRAY COUNTY DITCH NO. 34

MURRAY COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER - SLAYTON, MINNESOTA

JUNE 4, 1996 - 11:05 A.M.

Pursuant to notice given and requirements under Minnesota Statue 103E.325, the Murray County Board of Commissioners, as the Drainage Authority for Murray County Ditch No. 34, met in special session on June 4, 1996 with all members present.  Also present were Paul Malone, County Attorney; Leland Bush, Petitioners Attorney; Ron Ringquist and Chuck Gronberg, Sioux Engineering; Tom McCormick and Duane Jans, Ditch Viewers; and 20 interested persons.

The Chairman opened the Public Hearing to consider the Engineer’s Final Report on the Improvement of County Ditch #34.

Ron Ringquist explained that the Engineer is proposing three (3) options to reduce the cost of the project.  A total of $50,000 to $70,000 can be realized with a combination of the options.  The Engineer is unable to make an estimated cost of the project until one of more of the options are decided on by the Board.  Ron did explain that bid specifications can call for different options for either an open ditch or tile.

Several individuals stated that no one from Sioux Engineering had spoken with them to ask their opinion of where the open ditch should cross their land.

Duane Jans explained the methods that were used by the Viewers to determine benefits and damages in the Viewers Report.  Many questions were raised.  Ron Ringquist invited anyone that is dissatisfied with the Viewers Report to meet with the Viewers after the Hearing.

Leland Bush, after consultation with the petitioners and the Auditor/Treasurer, requested a continuation of the Final Hearing for a date and time certain.  The Chairman recessed the Public Hearing at 12:44 P.M. until Friday, June 28, 1996 at 9:00 A.M.  All property owners and ditch viewers will be notified of the Continuation Hearing.