S V U o l M u m M e E 31 R N u m 2 b e 0 r 0 117 9 Official Publication of the Minnesota Association of Assessing Officers www.mnmaao.org

Region 3 Spotlight Region and county profiles, and the region spotlight property Verso PAGE 27

A Follow Up on “A Challenging Market” in Brooklyn Center PAGE 32

Residential Sales Trends in the City of Alexandria PAGE 34

Cargill PAGE 39

2009 MAAO Annual Conference PAGE 42

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES 1

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 1 5/12/09 4:03:13 PM On the cover 2009 Equal Eyes Photo Contest 3rd Place Winner Article to suggest, letter to the Real Estate Category Editor, or any other correspon- Pam Daly dence for EQUAL EYES? Stevens County Send to: Rebecca Malmquist Splitrock Lighthouse Managing Editor 14600 Minnetonka Boulevard Minnetonka, MN 55345 Phone: 952.939.8222 Fax: 952.939.8243 [email protected]

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES Volume 31 Number 117

CONTENTS Features Departments 2009 MAAO Course Calendar...... 9 Announcements...... 3 MAAO Course Review, Behrenbrinker...... 9 Boards, Directors, Chairs, and Representatives...... 4 Future MAAO and IAAO Annual Conference Schedule...... 10 MAAO Presidential Perspective, Hacken...... 6 Region 3 Spotlight...... 15 Commissioner’s Comments, Einess...... 7 Region Spotlight Featured Property: Let’s Get Acquainted, Moreland...... 8 Verso, Lemke...... 27 State Board of Assessors Meeting Minutes, Lundgren...... 11 A Follow Up on “A Challenging Market” in Brooklyn Out of the Past, Erickson...... 14 Center, Wojcik...... 32 Meet Minnesota’s New AMA and SAMA Designees, Residential Sales Trends in the City of Alexandria, Pidde...... 30 Heidelberger...... 34 Transitions...... 37 Cargill, Inc., Quinn...... 39 International Items, Peterson...... 38 MAAO Fall Conference 2009...... 42 As I See It, Malmquist...... 43

Visit the MAAO website at: www.mnmaao.org

The statements made or opinions expressed by authors in Equal Eyes do not necessarily represent a policy position of the Minnesota Association of Assessing Officers.

2 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 2 5/12/09 4:03:15 PM In The Know

Equal Eyes Fall 2009 Issue Deadline: August 1, 2009

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES Volume 31 Number 117

CONTENTS

Registration is now available online for all 2009 MAAO Courses! Go to www.mnmaao.org

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES 3

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 3 5/12/09 4:03:15 PM EQUAL EYES Rebecca Malmquist, SAMA, CAE City of Minnetonka Managing Editor, Chair

Michael Stalberger, AMA Minnesota Department of Revenue Associate Editor Editorial Board Connie Erickson, SAMA Marci Moreland, SAMA Yellow Medicine County Carlton County

Nancy Wojcik, SAMA Jake Pidde, CMA Tina Diedrich, SAMA City of Brooklyn Center City of Plymouth Stearns County

Executive Board President First Vice President Second Vice President Stephen Hacken, SAMA William Effertz, SAMA Cheryl Wall, SAMA Winona County Assessor Hennepin County Assistant Assessor Wilkin County Assessor 177 Main St A-2103 Government Center PO Box 167 Winona, MN 55987 Minneapolis, MN 55487 Breckenridge, MN 56520 507.457.6300 Fax 507.454.9372 612.348.3388 Fax 612.348.8751 218.643.7162 Fax 218.643.7169 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Secretary/Treasurer Past President Nancy Wojcik, SAMA Stephen Behrenbrinker, SAMA, CAE City of Brooklyn Center Assessor St. Cloud City Assessor 6301 Shingle Creek Parkway 400 2nd St S Brooklyn Center, MN 55430 St. Cloud, MN 56301 763.569.3357 Fax 763.569.3494 320.650.3352 Fax 320.255.7205 [email protected] [email protected]

Region Directors

Region 1 Region 2 Region 3 Loren Benz, SAMA Dave Armstrong, SAMA Greg Kramber, SAMA Wabasha County Assessor Le Sueur County Assessor Wright County Assessor 651.565.3669 507.357.8215 763.682.7365 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Region 4 Region 5 Region 6 Kyle Holmes, SAMA Kathy Hillmer, SAMA Lori Schwendemann, SAMA Carlton County Deputy Assessor Redwood County Assessor Lac qui Parle County Assessor 218.384.9148 507.637.4008 320.598.3187 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Region 7 Region 8 Region 9 Lee Brekke, SAMA Joseph Skerik, AMA Stephen Baker, SAMA, CAE Wadena County Assessor Beltrami County/City Assessor Ramsey County Assessor 218.631.7781 218.333.4146 651.266.2005 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

4 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 4 5/12/09 4:03:15 PM Committee Chairs Agricultural Long Range Planning Sales Ratio Thomas Dybing, SAMA Stephen Behrenbrinker, SAMA, CAE John Keefe, SAMA 304 S Marshall 400 2nd St S 313 N Main St Caledonia, MN 55921 St. Cloud, MN 56301 Center City, MN 55012 507.725.5801 Fax 507.725.2647 320.650.3352 Fax 320.255.7205 651.213.8555 Fax 651.213.8551 Commercial/Industrial Membership & Awards Scholarship Jim Atchison, SAMA Jan Olsson, SAMA, RES Stephen Behrenbrinker, SAMA, CAE A-2103 Government Center 3400 Plymouth Blvd 400 2nd St S Minneapolis, MN 55487 Plymouth, MN 55447 St. Cloud, MN 56301 612.348.4567 Fax 612.348.8751 763.509.5355 Fax 763.509.5060 320.650.3352 Fax 320.255.7205 Conference Coordinator Membership Coordinator Silent Auction Paul Knutson, SAMA, RES Julie Roisen, SAMA, CAE Jane Grossinger, SAMA 320 NW 3rd St, Ste 4 PO Box 8608 33872 MN HWY 15 Faribault, MN 55021-6100 Mankato, MN 56002 Kimball, MN 55353 507.332.6102 Fax 507.332.5999 507.304.4251 Fax 507.304.4075 320.398.6705 Education Nominating Site Selection Committee Bob Wilson, SAMA, CAE, ASA Michelle Bolen, SAMA Stephen Behrenbrinker, SAMA, CAE 4801 W 50th St 555 18th Ave SW 400 2nd St S Edina, MN 55424 Cambridge, MN 55008 St. Cloud, MN 56301 952.826.0426 Fax 952.826.0389 763.689.2752 Fax 763.689.8226 320.650.3352 Fax 320.255.7205 Finance PDA Committee Tax Court Bill Peterson, SAMA, CAE Stephen Behrenbrinker, SAMA, CAE Jack Pasternacki, SAMA, CAE, ASA 1590 Hwy 55, County Admin Center 400 2nd St S 1800 West Old Shakopee Rd Hastings, MN 55033 St. Cloud, MN 56301 Bloomington, MN 55431 651.438.4208 Fax 651.438.4469 320.650.3352 Fax 320.255.7205 952.563.8708 Fax 952.563.4741

Information Systems Research and Planning Weeklong Course Committee Teresa Mitchell, SAMA, CAE Tom Houselog, SAMA Bob Wilson, SAMA, CAE, ASA 1590 Hwy 55, County Admin Center PO Box 509 4801 W 50th St Hastings, MN 55033 Luverne, MN 56156 Edina, MN 55424 651.438.4216 Fax 651.438.4469 507.283.5022 Fax 507.283.1343 952.826.0426 Fax 952.826.0389 Legislative Rules and Resolutions Steve Kuha, SAMA Marvin Anderson, SAMA, CAE PO Box 3000, Courthouse 5200 85th Ave N Walker, MN 56484 Brooklyn Park, MN 55443 218.547.3300 X239 Fax 218.547.2440 763.493.8173 Fax 763.493.8391

Department of Revenue Representatives and the Areas They Represent Lloyd McCormick 612.791.4957 Appraisal Supervisor

Gary Amundson Brad Averbeck Larry Austin 218.575.3183 218.439.3673 651.556.6098 Aitkin, Benton, Carlton, Cass, Cook, Becker, Beltrami, Clay, Clearwater, Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Goodhue, Crow Wing, Douglas, Grant, Itasca, Hubbard, Kittson, Lake of the Woods, Hennepin, Minneapolis, Ramsey, Scott, Koochiching, Lake, Otter Tail, Mahnomen, Marshall, Norman, Sherburne, Washington, Wright St. Louis, Todd, Wadena Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, Roseau

Steve Hurni Tom Nash Michael Stalberger 320.632.3949 507.359.7022 651.556.6071 Big Stone, Chippewa, Chisago, Isanti, Kana- Brown, Cottonwood, Jackson, Lac qui Parle, Blue Earth, Dodge, Faribault, Fillmore, bec, Kandiyohi, McLeod, Meeker, Mille Lacs, Lincoln, Lyon, Martin, Freeborn, Houston, Le Sueur, Mower, Morrison, Pine, Pope, Renville, Stearns, Murray, Nicollet, Nobles, Pipestone, Olmsted, Rice, Sibley, Steele, Wabasha, Stevens, Swift, Traverse, Wilkin Redwood, Rock, Watonwan, Yellow Medicnine Waseca, Winona

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES 5

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 5 5/12/09 4:03:15 PM Presidential Perspective

“...spring is here, and I hope optimism starts to take over...”

Written by Stephen I. Hacken, SAMA Winona County Assessor MAAO President 2008-2009

Local Board of Appeal season has ended years of faithful service. MAAO leadership have been here. I am guessing when retail as I write this. This was my 31st year of is also looking at ways to streamline sales fall, companies need to find places attending these meetings, and it just does collections of membership and conference to cut expenses. Property taxes, never a not get any easier. While I think I handle funds. It appears that now is a good time to popular expenditure even during good times, situations better than when I was a “wet look at ways of consolidating these tasks. become one place savings can be realized. behind the ears” assessor, I still get very A final plan should be available by fall tired and cantankerous. My wife has told me conference time. It has been a tough year for the economy many times that she loves me 11 months of everywhere. Winona County has had many the year; April, she is not so sure of. The Finance Committee, chaired by Bill layoffs. To make matters worse, St. Charles Peterson of Dakota County, has spent lost its largest private employer in April While most assessors are very busy during endless hours researching association credit when the food processing plant had a fire. March and April, MAAO still has many cards for some of our key members. I There were 250 residents employed at that items to work on. Legislative issues are recently approved credit card access for our location. St. Charles is doing everything in some of the most important tasks. As I conference coordinator, secretary-treasurer, its power to make a deal work to have the am sure most everyone knows, the 2009 membership/awards chair, and the weeklong plant rebuild in Winona County. legislature amended the 2008 Green Acres course coordinator. All of these people need bill. Many of the items changed were to purchase materials and services. The Through seven months of the 2009 sales identified early in the session by MAAO credit cards will provide a tracking history study period, Winona County has had one as problems. In talking to area legislators, and will make it more convenient when apartment and one commercial property lobbyists, and other interested parties, it purchases are made. sale. Generally we would be 5 to 10 times was apparent that MAAO’s voice was heard those numbers by May 1. Valuations of these clearly and respected by the legislature. I recently signed up two of my staff members properties will be challenging without sales and myself for summer seminars using the and with the economy struggling. Rob Vanasek does a great job of making MAAO web site and the credit card option. contact with individual legislators. Steve Using my county-issued card, I got all But spring is here, and I hope optimism Kuha of Cass County and his committee three registrations done in little time. We starts to take over. I look forward to summer testify effectively on a daily basis. Also, all quickly received an e-mail confirmation seminars, more time to play golf, and my many of our members have great relationships listing what seminars we were scheduled to son’s graduation from law school. I also with lawmakers. Combined, these elements attend. The process works well, and I hope will try to get around the state this summer convey our message about equitability in other members take advantage of this. to visit some region meetings. I hope to see tax policy. many of you soon. Looking at the number of tax court petitions The Research and Planning Committee, filed around the state this spring, it may be chaired by Tom Houselog of Rock County, a busy year for the Tax Court Committee, continues to look at new ways for MAAO to chaired by Jack Pasternacki of the City of do business. Our membership coordinator, Bloomington. While Winona County has Julie Roisen of Blue Earth County, will be never had a huge number of filings, we had stepping down later this year after many more this year than any other year since I

6 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 6 5/12/09 4:03:15 PM Commissioner’s Comments Consistency is the key to growing trust in the property tax Written by Ward Einess Minnesota Commissioner of Revenue

It is no secret that property tax issues often source of class or liability changes for bring heated debate. Unfortunately, that some taxpayers. debate is not always rooted in the “facts on the ground,” as this legislative session Even before this year’s legislative session and some recent alarmist media stories started, there was widespread agreement demonstrate. that lawmakers would revisit the 2008 changes and address issues with the law Providing accurate and objective information before any 2009 property tax payments about the law and what options taxpayers came due. Yet some landowners very have is challenging – but also crucial. publicly plowed under wooded areas, based must also raise or cultivate agricultural on misinterpretation of a law that was going products. As assessors, you are the first line of to be changed anyway. defense. You also are often the first to feel In some cases, this requires what can be a the heat of public anger that can stem from In some cases, your examination of difficult judgment call by assessors, and that bad information, misunderstanding, or previously enrolled Green Acres land turned call can later be challenged, sometimes even inconsistent application of the law. up parcels that in reality did not qualify for overturned. This is exactly why statewide the program but had nonetheless been taxed consistency is so important. One sound bite or news story about “unfair” property taxes – no matter how slanted or Inconsistent classifications or assessments – misguided – stays in the public memory for “...you are often the first no matter how well-intentioned – complicate far longer than the correction or explanation to feel the heat of public the work of all property tax administrators. that follows. The inflammatory publicity that can be anger that can stem generated when such inconsistencies are The resulting uproar can complicate from bad information, corrected is of secondary importance the collective efforts of everyone who misunderstanding, or compared with the issue of tax fairness. But administers the property tax – from you there are very real effects on how taxpayers assessors all the way to the commissioner’s inconsistent application perceive the property tax system and those office in St. Paul. Beyond inconvenience, of the law...” of us who administer it. such confusion sows mistrust of the property tax, which many taxpayers struggle to in previous years at the lower agricultural As always, we at DOR are committed to understand in the first place. rate. Due to this inconsistency, landowners providing the best possible guidance to help wrongly blamed the Green Acres changes you assessors and your taxpayers understand Last year’s changes to the Green Acres for eliminating property tax deferrals that and comply with state property tax laws. program, for example, drew legitimate they never should have received in the first concern from many of our state’s farming place. For many taxpayers, their assessor is the families. Changes during the 2009 legislative primary – or even only – human face on the session helped address those concerns and The debate over horse boarding operations property tax system. You provide a very markedly improved the law. also shows how important consistency is difficult, but very valuable, public service when classifying and assessing land across through your work to classify and assess Before those changes could be made, the whole state. Some recent high-profile properties in your jurisdiction consistently however, a number of provocative statements cases in Washington and Sherburne counties and correctly. and news articles made it difficult to hold a angered landowners when portions of their neutral discussion about the new law or how holdings were re-classified as commercial, After all, when one landowner pays lower it might be improved. The resulting debate rather than agricultural. taxes than they should under the law, other was not always constructive. Even worse, taxpayers in that jurisdiction are the ones it was often driven by missing or incorrect The DOR believes the law is clear. To who pay for it. Even if it goes unnoticed, information that misinterpreted the new qualify for the lower non-commercial tax that makes our system less fair. rules, or wrongly cited those rules as the rate, commercial horse boarding properties

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES 7

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 7 5/12/09 4:03:15 PM Let’s Get Acquainted Researched and Written by Marci Moreland, SAMA Mike Wacker Carlton County Assessor Editorial Committee Member

Mike Wacker is the newly-appointed Mike is an actual native of assessor of Watonwan County. He started Watonwan County having his new position in January of 2009. Prior to lived all his life there being County Assessor, he was an appraiser except for four months. His since January of 2003. wife works in surgery in Fairmont, Minnesota. He Mike became interested in the assessing says that reminds him of how field when a banker friend referred him. uninteresting his job is. He has been a member of MAAO for seven years and is not currently an IAAO member. His future plans include Mike is serving as Vice President of Region hiring an appraiser to fill the 2 in 2009, and he will assume the President vacancy of his old position position in 2010. and getting ready for Boards of Review. In closing, Mike states, “I have a great staff! Also, he is looking forward to retirement Being the Assessor for a short time, I have a There are 8,000 parcels in Watonwan County -- in 2039!! lot of questions and have relied heavily on within 20 jurisdictions, including twelve them for help. Also, I would like to thank townships and eight cities. The majority of As for his most unusual or memorable my friends around the state for the many the parcels are classified as agricultural and moments, there are the usual close calls e-mails and calls extending their support to single family residential. with the dogs, angry taxpayers, and let’s me. It’s nice to know that until 2039, I will not forget the ‘women in towels.’ If he had be working with a great group of friends.” Mike has a staff of four full time employees: the opportunity to change anything in the two appraisers, one clerical, and one assessment field, it would be to do away technical office manager. There are no local with homesteads. He feels it takes a lot of assessors. time to administer.

Mike has been married to his wife, Darby, The biggest challenge Mike sees is the for 14 years. They have two children, misconceptions that the public has about Brandon, age 9 and Chase, 19 months. He the assessor’s job in general. For example: enjoys hunting, fishing, golf, traveling, and “The County needs more money, so you’re just about anything to do with his wife and raising values” or “I didn’t do anything to kids. my house so how can the value go up?”

WATONWAN COUNTY Watonwan County was officially created on the Democratic ticket on January 5, Industrial development through Tony by an act of the Minnesota Legislature and 1915. Governor Hammond died in office Downs Food Company, ST Industries, made official by the signature of Governor the following year. Westin Automotive, and Swift-Eckrich Alexander Ramsey on February 25, 1860. Inc., plus other smaller - yet enterprising The County was formerly a part of Blue Watonwan County has twelve townships - companies indicates the prospect of Earth County, and both counties were part and eight cities. It is in the heart of a rich industrial expansion in this area to serve the of a huge Brown County -- almost as large agricultural area. Up to very recent times, agricultural industry. as the state of Ohio. the railroads played a vital part in the history and welfare of the county’s economy. In the In 1895, the county seat was established in past years, increased trucking service, and St. James, and during that year, the present use of passenger cars over the state highways Courthouse was built. Watonwan County linking the area with the north, south, east furnished a Governor for Minnesota in the and west have diminished the role of the person of Winfield Scott Hammond, elected railroads.

8 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 8 5/12/09 4:03:16 PM Mike Wacker MAAO COURSE CALENDAR

Assessment Laws and Procedures (ALP) July 13-16, 2009 St. Cloud

Appraisal Principles July 20- 14, 2009 St. Cloud

Appraisal Procedures August 3-7, 2009 St. Cloud

Mass Appraisal Basics August 17-21, 2009 St. Cloud

IAAO 102: Income Approach Sept. 28 - Oct. 2, 2009 Plymouth

MN Assessment Administration October 19-22, 2009 St. Cloud

**For any questions regarding weeklong courses please contact Steve Behrenbrinker at 320.650.3352 or email [email protected]**

MAAO Workshop Review Preparing for the Minnesota Income Property Case Study Exam Written by Stephen Behrenbrinker, SAMA, CAE City of St. Cloud Assessor MAAO Past President Weeklong Course Coordinator

On Monday, March 16, 2009, fourteen complete some of the requirements before you have any questions or comments about Minnesota assessors attended the “Preparing taking this eight-hour exam. Attendees also the Minnesota Income Property Case Study for the Minnesota Income Property Case earned six hours of continuing education Exam, please contact Stephen Behrenbrinker Study Exam” workshop at the Ramsey credit. at 320-650-3352. County Assessor’s Office in St. Paul. Thanks to Steve Baker and his staff member Since the Income Property Case Study exam Workshop Income $1,105.00; Expenses Sandy Ross for providing the free meeting process began in 2002, over sixty Minnesota $303.26; Net Income to MAAO $801.74. room and assistance during the day. assessors have achieved the SAMA level of licensure by successfully completing this The “Writing the Demonstration Form Stephen Behrenbrinker, CAE, instructed process. Appraisal Report and Preparing for the the workshop. Most of the attendees were Residential Case Study Exam” workshop will planning to take this exam in the coming MAAO supplied one scholarship to a be held at the 2009 Summer Seminars. months. Emphasis of the workshop is on the Department of Revenue staff member that income approach to valuation to assist the attended. The workshop student reference attendees in self-study for the exam. Since manual was updated this year and is available this workshop is generally offered only for purchase for $25.00 (per MAAO policy) once per year some attendees still needed to for individuals that were unable to attend. If

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES 9

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 9 5/12/09 4:03:16 PM Future MAAO Annual Conference Dates and Locations:

October 4-7, 2009 Ramada MOA, Bloomington

September 26-29, 2010 Mankato Alltel Center

October 2-5, 2011 Ruttgers Sugar Lake Lodge

September 23-26, 2012 Breezy Point Resort

(Dates and locations for the 2011 and 2012 conferences were chosen at the February Executive Board Meeting)

Future IAAO Annual Conference Dates and Locations:

September 13-16, 2009 Louisville, Kentucky (75th Annual!) August 29-Sept 1, 2010 Orlando, Florida September 18-21, 2011 Phoenix, Arizona September 9-12, 2012 Kansas City, Missouri August 25-28, 2013 Grand Rapids, Michigan 2014 (Date TBD) Sacremento, California

10 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 10 5/12/09 4:03:16 PM State Board of Assessors Meeting Minutes December 2, 2008 St. Cloud Holiday Inn Provided by Pam Lundgren Minnesota Department of Revenue

Vice-chairperson, Doreen Pehrson convened Cindy Brehmer, Lac Qui Parle County 151, PACE, and many seminars. Mr. the meeting at 9:30. Keith Albertsen was Bryan Eder, Olmsted County Connors’ Form Report passed the grading unable to attend. Carol Haataja, Wadena County committee in April 2008, and he passed Marcia Hetletvedt, Rice County the Residential Case Study Examination Minutes of the September 30 and October Joshua Johnsen, City of Plymouth in September 2008 and had a successful 1, 2008 meeting were read and discussed. Colette Ketchum, Norman County oral interview with the Board in September Jan Jackson made a motion to approve the Beth Miller, Hubbard County 2008. Mr. Connors passed the Income minutes as amended. Mike Amo seconded Heidi Moss, Jackson County Case Study Exam in November 2008, and the motion. The motion carried. Jay Sowieja, LeSueur County he has 10 years of assessment experience. Mr. Connors is applying for the Senior Secretary’s Report: Gregg Larson seconded the motion. The Accredited Minnesota Assessor license. Outside activity letters were mailed to 46 motion carried. Steve Sinell made a motion to award the assessors and their employers on November Senior Accredited Minnesota Assessor 4, 2008. The outside activity letters Kevin Wynn, Hennepin County, met with the license to Brian Connors. Dave Marhula are intended to inform the employers of Board for his Accreditation Oral Interview. seconded the motion. The motion carried. assessors who report performing outside His education includes courses A, ProSource activities on their license renewals, that the 101-105, H, J, a successful challenge to Marc Iverson, Renville County. His Board is aware of - but does not condone or Course K, and many additional ProSource education includes courses A, B, H, condemn - the activity. courses. Mr. Wynn’s Form Report passed the Basic Income Approach, Supervision and grading committee in September 2008, and Management, IAAO 102, ProSource 105, Request for CEH’s: he passed the Residential Case Study Exam PACE, and a number of seminars. Mr. Nicholas Rathman, the event coordinator in October 2008. Mr. Wynn has 9 years of Iverson’s Form Report passed the grading for Lighthouse ESP, is requesting CEH’s assessment experience, and he applied for committee in October 2005, and he passed for an 8.5 hour seminar on Cartography & the Accredited Minnesota Assessor license. the Residential Case Study Exam in August Photography. The seminar will be available Dave Marhula made a motion to award the 2006 and had a successful interview with live and on-line. The dates have not yet been Accredited Minnesota Assessor license to the Board in November 2006. He passed set, but the seminar will begin on a Sunday Kevin Wynn. Gregg Larson seconded the the Income Case Study Exam in November and end the next day. Segments of the motion. The motion carried. 2008 and has five years of assessment course include Basic Issues, Location and experience. Mr. Iverson is applying for Plat maps, Aerial Photography, Boundaries, Jason Langer, Washington County, met the Senior Accredited Minnesota Assessor Rural, Waterfront, Land Use, etc. Mike with the Board for his Accreditation Oral designation. Jan Jackson made a motion Amo made a motion to award 8.5 CEH’s Interview. His education includes courses, to award the Senior Accredited Minnesota to the seminar. Dave Marhula seconded A, B, H, J, K, 2-day USPAP, and sufficient Assessor license to Marc Iverson. Gregg the motion. The motion carried. Assessors seminars. Mr. Langer’s Form Report passed Larson seconded the motion. The motion who attend the seminar will need to provide the grading committee in March 2007, and carried. documentation of attendance to the Board he passed the Residential Case Study Exam (including license number) to receive in February 2008. Mr. Langer has 12 years Joyce Schmidt, Pipestone County. Her CEH’s. of assessment experience, and he applied for education includes courses A, B, H, J, the Accredited Minnesota Assessor license. K, IAAO 102, 151, and many seminars. Provisional Status: Steve Sinell made a motion to award the Ms. Schmidt’s Form Report passed the Linda Mortenson, Assessment Laws and Accredited Minnesota Assessor license to Grading Committee in September 2006, Procedures, Basic Appraisal Principles, Jason Langer. Jan Jackson seconded the and she passed the Residential Case Study Basic Appraisal Procedures, Basic Income motion. The motion carried. Examination the same month. Ms. Schmidt Approach to Valuation. had a successful oral interview with the Application for Senior Accredited Board in September 2006 and passed the Minnesota Assessor: Income Case Study Exam in October 2008. Application for Certified Minnesota Brian Connors, Scott County. His education Ms. Schmidt has 6 years of assessment Assessor: includes courses: A, H, K, AIREA alternates experience, and she is applying for the Jan Jackson made a motion to award the for B, Capitalization Theory Parts A and Senior Accredited Minnesota Assessor Certified Minnesota Assessor license to the B (both are income courses), IAAO 102, designation. Dave Marhula made a motion following individuals:

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES 11

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 11 5/12/09 4:03:16 PM to award the Senior Accredited Minnesota There being no further business, the chairman Dave Marhula made a motion to pay all Assessor license to Joyce Schmidt. Deb set the date for the next meeting as Tuesday, meeting expenses. Steve Sinell seconded Volkert seconded the motion. The motion February 3, 2009 at 9:30 at the Department the motion. The motion carried. carried. of Revenue. Dave Marhula made a motion to adjourn the Discussion Items: The date for the March meeting was also meeting. Steve Hurni seconded the motion. The members began the process of going set as Tuesday, March 24th, 2009 at the St. The motion carried. The meeting adjourned through the Minnesota Rules Chapter 1950. Cloud Holiday Inn, and the meeting will at 3:00. Discussion regarding changes continued convene at 9:30. for the remainder of the meeting and will be continued at the February meeting when Harriet Sims from Appeals and Legal will be able to attend and answer questions. State Board of Assessors Meeting Minutes February 3, 2009 Department of Revenue - Harold Stassen Building

Chairperson Keith Albertsen convened the Grading Committee Appointments: A large number of TIF topics will be meeting at 9:30. Vice-chairperson, Doreen The members of the grading committee addressed in addition to topics that will Pehrson was unable to attend. All other are: Steve Behrenbrinker, Bob Wilson, and cover Fiscal Disparities, Bond Market, Board members were present. Kim Jensen. At the Chairman’s request, an Housing Improvement Areas, Disaster e-mail was sent to Stephen Behrenbrinker, Properties, TIF Administration and Case Minutes of the December 2, 2008 meeting Bob Wilson, and Kim Jensen asking each of Study, Arbitrage, Utility Rates, and Senior were read and discussed. Steve Hurni made them if they would consider serving on the Housing, etc. Per Board Policy, 12 hours of a motion to approve the minutes as read. grading committee for another year. Bob continuing education credit will be awarded Dave Marhula seconded the motion. The and Steve have accepted and we’re waiting to assessors who provide documentation of motion carried. to hear from Kim. Mike Amo made a motion having attended the seminars. to reappoint all the grading committee Secretary’s Report: members. Gregg Larson seconded the Request for Provisional Status; The new IRS mileage rate is $0.55 per mile motion. The motion carried. Ali Nkosi, Dakota County. Coursework: effective January 1, 2009. Assessment Laws and Procedures, Request for Continuing Education Residential Appraisal Principles, Residential Officer Elections: Hours: Appraisal Procedures, and Bachelor of The chairman opened the floor for Glen Erickson, Morrison County Assessor, Arts Degree in Housing Study from the nominations for the office of Vice Chair. requested CEH’s for a 4 hour seminar University of Minnesota. The Board of Steve Sinell made a motion to nominate sponsored by the MN Division of Homeland Assessors will accept an application for the Doreen Pehrson, cease nominations, Security and Emergency Management on Certified Minnesota Assessor license from and cast a unanimous ballot. Mike January 21, 2009 at the DOT Center in St. Ali Nkosi upon completion of a year of Amo seconded the motion. The motion Cloud. This seminar provided an overview assessment experience. carried. of the required processes for requesting federal disaster assistance and the state Application for CMA: The chairman opened the floor for and federal disaster assistance programs Steven Sinell made a motion to award the nominations for the office of Chairperson. available following a Presidential disaster Certified Minnesota Assessor License to Jan Jackson made a motion to nominate declaration. Per Board Policy, this seminar Arthur Huber. Jan Jackson seconded the Keith Albertsen. Steve Sinell seconded the will receive 4 CEH’s. motion. The motion carried. motion. The motion carried. Dave Marhula made a motion to cease nominations Announcements: Mike Amo made a motion to award the and cast a unanimous ballot. Steve Ehlers and Associates is presenting the Certified Minnesota Assessor License to Hurni seconded the motion. The motion 2009 Public Finance Seminar on February Michael Paulson, Houston County. Deb carried. 5 & 6 at Northland Inn in Brooklyn Park. Volkert seconded the motion. The motion carried.

12 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 12 5/12/09 4:03:16 PM Application for CMAS: Appointments with the Board: Committee regarding the 3 hour minimum Charles Arbuckle, Carver County. His Daniel Blonigen, Hennepin County, met policy asking the Board to reduce it to 2 education includes courses: Assessment Law with the Board for his Accreditation Oral hours. Discussion resulted in Steve Sinell and Procedures, Appraiser License Number: Interview. His education includes Courses and Gregg Larson agreeing to work on a 2052846, Mass Appraisal Basics, and Basic A, Mass Appraisal Basics, Highest and Best revision of the Board’s Continuing Education Income Approach, in addition to several Use & Market Analysis (520) and Advanced rule (1950.1080 subp2 a-d) and bringing it to seminars. Mr. Arbuckle’s Form Report Sales Comparison & Cost Approaches the March meeting for discussion. passed the grading committee in December (530) from the Appraisal Institute, IAAO 2008, and he has assessment experience 151, a successful challenge to Assessment A letter will be written to the Education since August, 2005. Mr. Arbuckle has Administration, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Committee that we’re considering it along applied for the Certified Minnesota Assessor Real Estate from St. Cloud State University. with other changes. Specialist license. Deb Volkert made a Mr. Blonigen has 3 years of assessment motion to award the Certified Minnesota experience, and he applied for the Accredited Keith brought up a question he was asked Assessor Specialist license to Charles Minnesota Assessor license. Steve Hurni regarding the reference to a four year degree Arbuckle. Gregg Larson seconded the made a motion to award the Accredited in the manual as it relates to experience motion. The motion carried. Minnesota Assessor license to Daniel required and what type of degree. The Blonigen. Jan Jackson seconded the motion. proposed rule changes will address those Application for SAMA: The motion carried. concerns. Mary Black, Cook County. Her education includes Courses A, B, H, J, K, IAAO 102, Harriet Sims joined the meeting to discuss There being no further business, the 151, and many approved seminars. Ms. rule changes. chairperson set the next meeting for Black’s Form Report passed the Grading Tuesday, March 24, 2009, at 9:30 AM at Committee in June 2005, and she passed Discussion Items: the Lake George Community Complex in the Residential Case Study Examination Updates to the manual currently available the Sunroom. in August 2006. She had a successful on the website. oral interview with the Board in October Jan Jackson made a motion to pay all the 2006 and passed the Income Case Study Former assessors conducting “Property Tax” bills associated with the meeting. Mike Amo Examination in December 2008. Ms. Black Seminars. seconded the motion. The motion carried. has 5 years of assessment experience, and she is applying for the Senior Accredited Held over from the December 2, 2008 Steven Sinell made a motion to adjourn. Minnesota Assessor license. Deb Volkert meeting: Non-technical education – should Dave Marhula seconded the motion. The made a motion to award the Senior there be a limit on hours? If so, how many? motion carried. The meeting adjourned at Accredited Minnesota License to Mary How to monitor? In addition, a letter 3:00 pm. Black. Dave Marhula seconded the motion. was received from the MAAO Education The motion carried.

2009 State Board of Assessors Meeting Calendar

May 19, 2009 St. Cloud Holiday Inn, St. Cloud July 14, 2009 MN Department of Revenue, St. Paul October 6 and 7, 2009 Ramada, Bloomington (MOA) December 1, 2009 St. Cloud Holiday Inn, St. Cloud

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56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 13 5/12/09 4:03:16 PM Out of the Past Written by Connie Erickson, SAMA Yellow Medicine County Assessor Editorial Committee Member

5 Years Ago – 2004 15 Years Ago • The regular legislative session ended with – 1994 no tax bill, consequently no property tax law changes. • The deadline for filing property • Gordon Folkman had settled in as the tax petitions was changed from Department of Revenue Property Tax May 15th to March 31st. Also, the Division Director and was coordinating deadline for providing income and expense an internal “remodeling” project that information to the assessor was changed to • Gerald Garski was developing a point will restructure some of the duties and 60 days after the petition was filed rather system which could determine which taxing responsibilities of the division and how the than 45 days before the hearing. jurisdictions would require a higher or lower work is completed. • Morris J. Anderson, Commissioner of designation when requested by the county • MAAP held its annual summer workshop Revenue, appointed Matt Smith to the assessor. at Jackpot Junction Conference Center in position of Assistant Commissioner for the • Don Monk, Hennepin County Assessor, Morton. property tax system. Deb McMartin chose was awarded the Senior Accredited • Douglas Gruber, Wright County Auditor/ to move on to Grant Thornton, a national Minnesota Assessor designation. Treasurer, passed away in June. accounting firm. • The City of Moorhead hired Al Heim, • The Allina exemption cases were still on • Matt Smith’s goals for the property tax former Todd County Assessor, as the new the front burner in tax court – Anoka and system included: working towards sound City Assessor. Meeker County had settled. tax policies, educating assessors about the • Pete Koole moved from Assessor of property tax laws and their responsibilities the City of Brooklyn Center to Assistant under them, and providing feedback on how Assessor and Chief Commercial Appraiser well those requirements are met. for the City of Bloomington. 10 Years Ago – 1999 • Vern Johnson, Grant County Assessor, retired. • In 1999, school districts were getting • John Verlenich resigned his position as additional state aid funding. County Assessor in Kanabec County. • Keith Albertsen was selected to succeed Lila • Wedding bells rang in May for 30 Years Ago – 1979 Benson on the State Board of Assessors. Commissioner of Revenue, Morrie Anderson, • Clyde Allen Jr. was the commissioner • Renville County filled two positions when as he married Deb McMartin, a former of Revenue, and Dick Anderson was the Don Aden and Doug Bruns were hired as Assistant Commissioner of Tax Policy with MAAO President. appraisers. the Department of Revenue. • Fergus Falls and Southwest State • Past MAAO President, Louise Thureen, University were two possible sites for the enjoyed her retirement along the north shore education of assessors. and all of the natural beauty that comes • The subject of field cards was a big topic with it. 20 Years Ago – 1989 of discussion at various region meetings; • MAAO’s President was Mike Sheehy, the hope was to have the field cards be and the Commissioner of Revenue was • Commissioner of Revenue John James private. Matt Smith. was pleased with the new Department • Limited Market Value was a topic of • Minnesota’s property tax system has of Revenue Building located at 10 River discussion. always been a work in progress. Governor Plaza, just across the river from downtown Jesse Ventura’s State of the State address St. Paul. The new building housed all 19 zeroed in on tax reform. Minnesota divisions, with 1,000 employees. The new continues to try to find the perfect property location consolidated offices from nine other tax formula. Until the early 1970’s, late buildings under one roof. The Department 1980’s, and early to mid-90’s, the general had been working on this consolidation for property tax system remained much as it over ten years. was in 1858.

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56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 14 5/12/09 4:03:16 PM Spotlight on MAAO REGION 3 Region Profile MAAO Region 3 is located in the east central part of Region 3 monthly meetings are hosted by member counties Minnesota. Region 3 is comprised of the following counties: on a rotating schedule, with exceptions being: the month of Benton, Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Pine, June, our fishing outing on Mille Lacs Lake, hosted by Mille Sherburne, Stearns, and Wright. Our region has it all: an Lacs County; the month of July, our Olde Timers picnic for urban influence from the metropolitan area, large dairy farming former Region 3 Assessors at Warner Lake Park, hosted by operations, resorts and seasonal recreational properties on Stearns County; the month of September, our golf outing, our many lakes and rivers, commercial aggregate mining, hosted by Chisago County; and the month of December, our and timber lands. joint Christmas Meeting with Region 9, held at the Pebble Creek Golf Course. Region 3 President for 2009 is Jeanne Henderson, Sherburne County; Vice-President is Michelle Bolin, Isanti County Tours taken by Region 3 have included large dairy operations Assessor; Treasurer is Greg Kramber, Wright County in both Stearns County and Isanti County, Traditional Floors Assessor; and Secretary is Troy Stewart, Pine County. Greg in St. Cloud, Smart Wall Company (Hans Hagen Homes) in Kramber also serves as our Region 3 Director. Committee Stacey, and Cold Spring Brewery in Cold Spring. Guests have members include: included Lloyd McCormick, Larry Austin, Steve Hurni, and Al • Agricultural Committee – Jeanne Henderson Heim - all from the DOR; Todd Urbanski, Coldwell Banker • Education Committee – Brian Koester Real Estate; and Thomas Kroll, Land Manager and Arboretum Spotlight • Executive Board – Greg Kramber Director at St. John’s University. • Legislative Committee – Gary Grossinger • MCCC/Tax Advisory – Dan Weber Lengthy discussions have been held at our meetings • Department of Revenue – Steve Hurni and Larry Austin regarding the Green Acres legislation and the Rural Vacant • Editorial Committee – Tina Diedrich-Von Eschen Land classification. Members of Region 3 arranged a land • Tax Court Committee – Jeff Johnson tour of Sherburne, Benton, and Stearns Counties to assist • Commercial/Industrial Committee – Tony Rasmussen them in classifying 2a/2b lands. • Sales Ratio Committee – John Keefe Retirements in 2008 included Gregg Carlson, Chisago County and Dean Boettcher, Isanti County. At A Glance County Size Parcel # Cities / Market Value County Seat Population (sq. miles) Count # Townships (in billions $) Benton Foley City 39,500 408 19,400 8 / 12 3.3 Chisago Center City 50,100 445 29,800 10 / 9 5.9 Isanti Cambridge 38,600 439 22,200 3 / 13 4.3 Kanabec Mora 16,300 525 12,300 4 / 15 1.8 Mille Lacs Milaca 27,700 685 19,000 8 / 17 2.4 Morrison Little Falls 32,800 1,127 30,000 16 / 30 3.2 Pine Pine City 28,200 1,416 30,200 14 / 33 3.2 Sherburne Elk River 88,600 451 42,200 7 / 10 8.6 Stearns St. Cloud 146,100 1,394 75,400 30 / 34 14.2 Wright Buffalo 120,000 716 65,000 17 / 18 14.7

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56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 15 5/12/09 4:03:16 PM Region 3 Counties Benton County

Benton County (2000 population 34,226) was one of the of Irish, Belgians, original nine counties established by the territorial legislature in French, and French- 1849 and was one of the three which were declared organized. Canadians had small Originally, the settlements also. county was about one hundred miles The county seat is in length and at Foley. Originally, nearly forty miles the seat was at Sauk at its widest point. Rapids, then moved It was reduced to Watab in 1856, to its present and back to Sauk s i z e b e t w e e n Rapids in 1859. A 1856 and 1860. move was started to transfer the county seat to Foley, causing The county was much rivalry between the towns of Foley and Sauk Rapids. named in honor An election was held in 1901. The results favored moving of Thomas Hart the seat to Foley by a vote of 1,284 to 788. The present Benton, a senator from Missouri, who worked diligently to courthouse was built in 1902 and 1903. Additions were built have Congress enact the Homestead Act. He thus endeared in 1974 and 1981, and the interior has been remodeled. himself to many settlers, and several counties were named after him in the United States. Historical attractions in the county include Peace Rock, which is a large granite outcropping along the Mississippi When the first explorers came to the county, it was ranged River in Watab Township. It was named Peace Rock in 1832 by the Sioux and Chippewa Indian tribes. The first white by Henry Schoolcraft when he charted the Mississippi. It was settlers chose the land along the Mississippi River. The so named because it marked the 1825 boundary between earliest settlement was established in 1848 by David the Chippewa territory to the north and the Sioux lands to Gilman in Watab. He established a trading post at that the south. place. Jeremiah Russell arrived in 1849 to take charge of the American Fur Company’s trading post in Sauk Rapids. The church of Saints Peter and Paul in Gilman is a highly Settlement expanded into the interior of the county in the visible architectural landmark of Polish influence in the 1860’s and 1870’s. Yankees and immigrants from several community. It has been nominated to the National Register European countries settled in the county in the nineteenth of Historic Places. Spotlight century. The most predominant ethnic group was the Germans, who developed the area around Duelm and Agriculture and dairying, logging, lumbering, granite Mayhew Lake. The second largest nationality represented quarrying, and manufacturing have been active industries in the county are the Polish. “Alberta Colony” was promoted in the past. The timber and granite supplies have been by several prominent Poles in Chicago. It grew quickly after depleted, so the lumber and granite industries have become 1877. This area, around the community of Gilman, is still the defunct. The economy was based mainly on agriculture and most recognizable of the county’s ethnic communities. The dairy farming for many years. In recent years, industrial Scandinavians are the third largest group; they settled mainly parks have been established in Sauk Rapids, Foley, and in the southern and eastern parts of the county. Smaller groups Rice to attract industry to the county. A large employer in Benton County is the Verso Paper Mill (formerly known as the St. Regis Paper Mill) in Sartell. Chisago County

Chisago County is located just northeast of the seven-county Chisago County’s name comes from the Ojibway phrase “Ki Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, in east central Chi Saga” meaning “fair and lovely water.” The county was Minnesota. The eastern boundary of Chisago County is the established in 1851 in Territorial Minnesota, and Taylors Falls scenic St. Croix River, which is also the boundary between was the first county seat from 1852 to 1865. Chisago City Minnesota and Wisconsin. This river brought the early was the county seat from 1865 to 1875, and Center City has Swedish immigrants to Chisago County in the 1850’s. The been the county seat since 1875. Center City is the county 1970’s movie “The Emigrants” portrayed the early Swedes seat with the lowest population in the state. coming to Chisago County. The rest of the county is bordered by the counties of Washington, Anoka, Isanti, Kanabec, and The population of Chisago County was 50,128 as of 2007 Pine. (estimated) and this is up more than 30% in the past decade.

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56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 16 5/12/09 4:03:16 PM The county is 445 square miles in size, has ten cities, nine eleven general recreational lakes and many smaller lakes townships, and currently a total of 29,834 tax parcels. have been a large reason people have migrated to Chisago County. Because of Chisago Some points of interest in Chisago County are two state County’s close parks (Interstate and Wild River), the St. Croix National proximity and Scenic Riverway, the world-renowned Hazelden Foundation easy access to (alcohol and chemical dependency treatment and publishing), the metro job a maximum security state penitentiary in Rush City, a Polaris market by way Corporation engineering and research center, the oldest of I-35, which organized Lutheran congregation in the state, and many runs the length recreational lakes that are easy day-trips from the metro of the county, area. there has been s i g n i f i c a n t John Keefe is the County Assessor, and there are six property r e s i d e n t i a l appraisers plus two support staff that assess the entire county. growth over Chisago County has been a “True County Assessment” county the past 25+ years. While there are some remaining large since the early 1970’s, so there are no local assessors. The agricultural properties, residential and rural residential total estimated market value of property in Chisago County properties are now more prominent. Homes on the county’s is $5.9 billion.

Isanti County Isanti County was founded on February 13, 1857. The The bulk of the early settlement in the county took place county name is from the Izaty Indians, the ancient name for between 1860 and 1885. Creating a farm and home was not the Santee Indians who were members of the Dakota alliance. an easy task for the settlers. Isanti County was largely covered The first Europeans in the area were explorers. They used with trees. Since much of the soil is sandy, the farmers had the Rum River as a highway into the new territory. On his to deal with marginal yields. Most of the settlers who came

Spotlight journey to the region, Joseph Nicollet stopped along the banks to the county became farmers, and the county’s population of the Rum River in Isanti County. boomed during the 19th Century. By 1920, approximately 90 percent of the county was in farms. The settlement period lasted The increasing population, changing land use, and advanced approximately use of technology have been the major factors in the urban from 1845 to expansion period that began around 1970 and continues 1 8 8 5 . S o m e today. By 1990, 51.7 percent of Isanti County residents o f t h e m a j o r worked outside the county and the average travel time to developments work was one half hour. i n c l u d e d l u m b e r i n g , The “new” Isanti County Government Center was built in settlement, and early agriculture. The logging boom began 1993. The previous Courthouse was sold and is now leased approximately in 1947 when Daniel Stanchfield came upon office space. Currently, Isanti County employs 248 full-time white pine growing along the Rum River. About five years and 35 part-time staff. after Stanchfield’s visit, 20 logging firms were established in the area.

Kanabec County Kanabec is the Ojibway Indian word for snake. Kanabec Homesteaders and settlers soon followed the loggers and County was named after the Snake River that flows through created the need for a county government. Kanabec County the county. The river helped make Kanabec County a very was organized in 1859 but had no official courthouse building successful logging territory. The wonderful stands of white until seventeen years later. The Hersey-Bean lumber company pines along the Snake River region were admired by Maine erected a one room county office building near the southern lumbermen. Logging routes went from the Snake River, part of the county in Brunswick Township. By 1882, the one thence down stream to the St. Croix, and finally to the room building was inadequate to serve the growing population. Stillwater saw mills. The city of Mora had just been platted, the railroad had just

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56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 17 5/12/09 4:03:17 PM been built there, and a The last local assessor was in 1995. Most of the townships vote to move the county still hold their own Local Boards of Appeal and Equalization seat north to the city was passed. People are attracted to Kanabec County for its many lakes, endless rivers, and small town atmosphere. There are many A Swedish settler who recreational activities for everyone. Kanabec County is host homesteaded near the area suggested naming the city Mora each February to the Mora Vasaloppet, the largest ski race after his hometown in Dalarna, Sweden. In 1971, a 3,000 in Minnesota, as well as the Snake River Canoe Race in the pound, 22 foot tall, 17 foot long, and 6 foot wide replica of spring, the Mora the Dala Horse statue in Dalarna, Sweden was built in Mora. Half-Marathon in It was built as a reminder of their cultural heritage and as a August, and the tourist attraction. Mora Bicycle Tour along picturesque As of today, Kanabec County has a population of 16,276 within country roads in 4 cities and 15 townships and consists of approximately 12,255 September. parcels. It is no longer a logging community. At present, the county is 51% residential, 26% agricultural, 14% seasonal, 5% exempt, and 4% commercial. It is located 70 miles north of the Twin Cities, making it a great location for people wanting space, but still a short enough commute to work.

Mille Lacs County Mille Lacs County was established May 23, 1857, and was The county is in transition from mostly agricultural (along named for the large lake at the northern border of the county. with some recreational land) parcels to rural residential The name was originally given to the region by French parcels. Approximately 20% of our total county land is exempt voyageurs and traders and means “thousand lakes” or “all because it is part of the Mille Lacs Wildlife Management sorts of lakes” and eventually was applied to the lake and Area, Rum River State Forest, Mille Lacs Kathio State the county. Park, White Fish State Wildlife Area, Father Hennepin State Mille Lacs lake covers Park, or the Sherburne National approximately 200 square miles Wildlife Refuge. With all the state

Spotlight and over 50 miles of shoreline and county managed lands, the lies within the county. The wetlands, lakes, and the Rum southern part of the lake, along River bisecting the county, Mille with the other smaller lakes and Lacs County is a perfect getaway rivers in our county, make up for outdoor enthusiasts. about 15% of the total area of Mille Lacs County. While that The county courthouse was built statistic alone would indicate in 1923 and is on the US National that the county is misnamed, Register of Historic Places. another 25% of the county is Currently, a 60,000 square foot comprised of wetland. expansion is in progress behind the courthouse for courts and court administration. Morrison County

Morrison County was established on February 25, 1856 River approximately 100 miles northwest of Minneapolis/St. and was named in honor of William and Allan Morrison. It is Paul and approximately 150 miles southwest of Duluth. located in the center of Minnesota and is considered by many The cities in Morrison County operate under the Mayor- to be the gateway to the northern Minnesota vacationland. Council form of government. There are five excellent K-12 school systems. St. Gabriel’s Hospital, a 55 bed general acute Little Falls, the county seat, was first settled in 1848 and care facility, provides medical service to the area. Morrison platted in 1855. It was incorporated as a village February 25, County’s economy is based on agriculture, with significant 1879 and as a city in July 1890. It is located on the Mississippi

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56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 18 5/12/09 4:03:17 PM original heirlooms, guests can enjoy a unique experience for overnight stays, weddings, conferences/retreats, family reunions, special events, and tours.

Little Falls was the home of Charles Lindbergh for the first 20 years of his life. Charles A. Lindbergh State Park, containing the boyhood home of the great aviator, was established in 1931. The Minnesota Historical Society operates the home as a historic site. The park is named for Charles A. Lindbergh, Sr., a progressive Republican Congressman who represented central Minnesota from 1907 to 1917 and lost the governor’s race in 1918.

Little Falls is also home to the Minnesota Fishing Museum. The MFM is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving contributions from the manufacturing and retail income the heritage and history of freshwater fishing in Minnesota. industries. Businesses located in the county include Larson The MFM features over 8,000 artifacts in three large display Boats, Crestliner, Inc., Morey’s Seafest, Falls Fabricating, rooms, plus the O’FISH-L Gift Shop, and tourism information. Redwood Industries, Bednarek Trucking, and IWCO. The MFM’s education program includes the DNR’s MinnAqua program for children. Camp Ripley is located on 54,000 acres nine miles north of Little Falls and is a year-round training facility used by the The Morrison County Courthouse is a Romanesque style National Guard, United States Reserve, and active military building constructed of granite and locally manufactured brick units from the entire United States and Norway. Camp designed by the architect C.A. Dunham. By July 1891, the Ripley’s winter training facilities are regarded as the best in building was completed. The 118-year-old building still graces the nation. the courthouse square with its turrets, detailed chimneys, and clock tower. The County now rents the building to community The area offers an abundance of wildlife, lakes, streams, organizations. snowmobiling, and cross country ski trails, as well as excellent access to the Soo Line trail. Morrison County Increasing space requirements prompted the construction Spotlight has twenty parks, including Lindbergh State Park. Cultural of a building annex known as the Administration Building attractions include the Heartland Symphony, Stroia Ballet Co., in 1969. The two-story brick building houses the County Community Theater, the Little Falls Dam Festival, St. Francis Recorder, Auditor, Assessor, Treasurer, Veterans Affairs, Music Center, and the Sidewalk Arts and Crafts Fair - one of Public Health, and Planning and Zoning. Another building the largest of its kind in the upper Midwest. annex was added in the late 1980s. The new Government Center houses the Jail, Sheriff’s Office, Courts, Judges The Linden Hills Historical Event Center (Musser/Weyerhaeuser Chamber, Court Administration, County Attorney, Community Homes) is located in the City of Little Falls. Built in 1898, Corrections, Extension Services, License Bureau, and the two neighboring homes of Charles A. Weyerhaeuser Social Services. With the exception of the County Highway and Richard “Drew” Musser are a physical reminder of the Department, all county departments are housed in a single lumbering era in Minnesota. Furnished with antiques and set of interconnected buildings. Pine County Prior to the organization of the Minnesota vote from Chengwatana Territory in 1849, Pine County was Village to Pine City, where it included within the limits of St. Croix is today. Attempts have failed County in Wisconsin. In 1852, it was over the years to change the put into the limits of Chisago County in county seat location. Also Minnesota and was then established as in 1872, the county built the its own county on March 31, 1856. Pine courthouse on the property County previously included the present- where Petschel’s Café used day areas of Carlton and Kanabec to stand in downtown Pine Counties. City. Our new facility was built in 2006, and we moved in October of 2007. We are now The county was finally organized within its present boundaries located one mile north of Pine City on Northridge Drive. in 1872. In that year, the county seat was moved by popular

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56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 19 5/12/09 4:03:19 PM Pine County was named for the extensive pineries comprised Resorts and campgrounds are another one of the highlights of of White, Norway, and Jack pine for which at one time covered Pine County. There is certainly no shortage of these. Whether 665,000 acres of the total 906,366 acres. Pine City is a you like the water, the woods, or the comforts of a good hotel, beautiful city located between the lakes of Pokegama and we have it here. Grand Casino in Hinckley is also a popular Cross. The Snake River runs between the two lakes, therefore hotspot for travelers and gamblers alike. making for miles of boating, fishing, and other outdoor sports and recreation. Our Assessor’s Office consists of the County Assessor, Deputy Assessor, three staff appraisers, and one clerk/appraiser. We Pine County is home to many bountiful and wonderful lakes have four local assessors. Our office oversees the assessing including Bass, Lower and Upper Pine, Grindstone, Sturgeon, of 30,242 parcels. Our county consists of 33 townships and Island, Sand, and Oak. The county is also home to the tranquil 13 cities. Our population is 28,229. state forests of St. Croix, Banning, Nemadji, Chengwatana, and General Andrews. We are known for some of the best hunting and fishing around the state.

Sherburne County

Located northwest of the Twin Cities, Sherburne County was Crawford was found guilty of first degree murder and hanged established in 1856 and was named for Moses Sherburne, at the Courthouse. Crawford’s trial was the second murder an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the Minnesota trial ever held in Sherburne County. Territory from 1850 to 1853. The first Government Center and courthouse was built in 1877 in Elk River. Previously the Charles Babcock, a native son to Elk River, became the first Commissioners would hold their meetings in private residences State Highway Commissioner from 1917 to 1936. He initiated in Big Lake and Otsego. In 1980, a new government center the “Babcock Plan” which established the state trunk highway was built at its current location along Highway 10 in Elk River system, with Jefferson Highway, now known as Highway 10, with an expansion completed in 1994. being one of the first paved roads in the state. The Babcock Plan became an amendment to the state constitution in On the outskirts of eastern Elk River sits the historic Oliver 1919 and was voter approved in 1920. This plan called to H. Kelley Farm. The farm is a living history farm of the improve 7,000 miles of roads and the creation of 70 major 1860’s focusing on the life of the highways. founder of the National Grange, Oliver H. Kelley. The original home The Great River Energy Plant sits to the of the family was built in 1850 but northwest as you approach Elk River Spotlight was not finished until it was sold in from the south. The first rural nuclear 1900. The farmstead is now owned plant in the United States was at this and preserved by the Minnesota site and went online in 1960. It was later Historical Society, where visitors dismantled in 1974. In 1989, the coal can tour the historic farmhouse and fired plant was converted to a Refuse outbuilding as well as participate Derived Fuel (RDF) plant by Connexus in 19th century farming techniques. Energy and burns garbage to generate The farm is open to the public from energy. Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. On July 22 1967, Sherburne County was hit by a category F2 tornado which In 1889, the Department of Corrections - St. Cloud Reformatory touched down for 25 miles, killed one person, injured 12, was built on an old quarry site just southeast of St. Cloud on destroyed 12 homes, and damaged many more. There have Hwy 10. The level 4, close-security reformatory was built for been five other reported tornados since 1967, each being a offenders ages 16 – 30 who were presumably “salvageable” category F0 with no injuries or deaths reported. from a life of crime. Today the reformatory is still operating and houses male inmates. As of 2009, there were 1,011 inmates, The Sherco Power Plant, which is operated by Xcel Energy, is most ranging in age from 26 through 35. A notable inmate, located near the City of Becker on a 4,500 acre site. This plant John McLaughlin, perpetrator of the 2003 Rocori High School is the largest in terms of square feet, steam production, power shooting, is currently serving a life sentence. generation capability, and coal consumption in comparison to the company’s other generating facilities. There are three In 1904, Sherburne County had one of the last public hangings boiler houses which Xcel owns or partly owns. Property in the state. Known for the famous “Boxcar Murder,” Jim taxes paid by the plant helped lower the property tax rate

20 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 20 5/12/09 4:03:19 PM considerably for the City of Becker, Sherburne County, and ISD Sherburne County has been one of the fastest growing 726 residents. It was so much lower that this area had one of counties in the state. The population exploded from 41,945 the lowest property taxes in Minnesota. Becker has benefited in 1990 to an estimated 88,609 in 2008. With the population from a great tax base, getting 90% of its annual general fund boom, there has been growth in residential and commercial revenue from the plant. In construction countywide. 1999, the plant contributed Over the last 10 years, the roughly $21.1 million in county has averaged 1,084 property tax. As the power new homes per year - the plant depreciates, the tax most occurring in 2003 contribution is now much with 1,578 new homes less, approximately $11.7 and the least in 2008 with million in 2009. Sherburne only 109 new homes. In County now has one of 2008, the county averaged the highest property taxes 1,078 good sales, with in the state, the heaviest an average sales price of burden being placed $230,880. upon residential classified property. Sherburne County has a parcel count of 42,239 The present Sherburne parcels. The distribution of County campus includes the parcels is approximately a federal prison which 3.8% apartments/ has room for 667 inmates commercial/industrial, collecting on average 80.3% residential, 12.4% $13,800 per day. The agricultural, 2.3% seasonal/ federal prison addition opened in 2000 with a 20 year contract recreational, and 1.2% other. The total estimated market with the U.S. Marshal’s Office and Immigrations and Customs value of Sherburne County is approximately 8.6 billion. The Enforcement to house pre-trial detainees. The marshal’s residential estimated market value has grown from $792 service paid $7 million towards the $12 million cost, and the million in 1993 to just over $6 billion in 2007. Sherburne county sold $5 million in bonds to help finance the rest. After County has an overall budget for 2009 of $72 million ($42 Spotlight the 20-year contract ends, the facility can be fully used for million of which is being levied). county inmates. Notable inmates include Zacarias Moussaoui and Tom Petters. In 2000, the county had a net profit of $1.1 The top employers in Sherburne County are diverse: million from boarding federal inmates. Employer Product/Service City # Employees In May 2005, Sherburne County completed an expansion of Accurate Home Care Home Health Zimmerman 1,000 Sherburne County Government Elk River 600 the federal prison which included a shooting range and training Saint Benedict’s Care Center St. Cloud 530 facility. The income received from the prison was used to pay Crystal Cabinets Cabinet Mfgr. Princeton 450 for the expansion, to cover personnel and operating costs, pay Wal-Mart General Merch. Elk River 435 the $500,000 per year bond payment, add security cameras Fairview Northland Health Care Princeton 413 Great River Energy Power Generation Elk River 405 to the Government Center, for software upgrades for the XCEL Energy Power Generation Becker 380 payroll department, to fund major road improvements, and to purchase 18 acres of land just south of the Government Upcoming county events include: Center for future expansions. • Kelley Farm Tours – summer long tour information at http:// www.mnhs.org/places/sites/ohkf/ Railroads that run through the county along the Highway 10 • Wild West Days, Zimmerman – Memorial weekend Corridor will soon be used by the Northstar Commuter Rail • Spud Fest in Big Lake – June 25 – 28, 2009 system. Commuters will be able to travel along the 40 mile • County Fair in Elk River – July 16 – 19, 2009 track from Big Lake to downtown Minneapolis by train at a proposed weekday fare of $8 one-way. This will help alleviate Here are some other interesting Sherburne County facts: the traffic problems to and from the metro area. There are • In 1866 logging was big in Elk River; 160 million feet of currently two stations being built in Sherburne County. One logs floated down the Mississippi and Elk Rivers! in Elk River and the other in Big Lake, which will have a train • Sherburne County is the number one potato-growing repair station. It is estimated that 5,600 people will commute county in Minnesota; Cargill being one of the largest by rail each day. Plans are already in the works to expand agricultural businesses in the county (and country) doing the commuter rail to the City of St. Cloud. research on farm-related products. • Sherburne County National Wildlife Refuge was

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES 21

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 21 5/12/09 4:03:19 PM established in 1965 with more than 30,000 acres. and platted property in the county and became the • Sand Dunes State Forest contains 2,700 acres and is one principal town in the county for several years. of Minnesota’s 56 State Forests established to produce • A school house furnished the first courtroom in 1867. timber, protect water-shed and soils, provide wildlife • Elk River was incorporated in 1880; the countywide habitat, promote outdoor recreation, and perpetuate population was 4,503 at that time. distinctive species of flora and fauna. • In 1916, the Village of Elk River received electricity for • Sherburne County has extensive gravel mining operations the first time. just north of Elk River and in Haven Township near St. • Sherburne County was rated as the 22nd best in job Cloud; Sherburne County land is rich in sand, gravel, and growth in the country by Money Magazine in its July 10, granite and currently approximately 1,242 acres are being 2008 issue based on years 2000-2007. mined. • The first two buildings built in Sherburne County were constructed in 1846 to service traffic on the Red River Ox Cart Trail that followed along the Mississippi. • In May 1855, the Village of Orono was the first surveyed Stearns County

Stearns County is situated in central Minnesota, and is the Because wheat and other cash crops thrived in the rich central largest county by area in the southern half of the state, Minnesota soil, the county’s reputation for good farmland ranking 14th in area overall of all 87 counties. Lakes and spread quickly, and by the beginning of the 20th century the wetlands cover about 4% of the land area. Stearns County county’s population had grown to 44,464. is considered a commercial and tourism gateway because of its strategic position along I-94, one of Minnesota’s major Stearns County was officially established on February 20, traffic corridors. 1855. Originally, the name Stevens County was used to honor Governor Isaac I. Stevens, who had conducted an Our prime location is just one reason Stearns County attracts expedition to the area in 1853. However, the name was and retains so many of its residents. The people who live changed to Stearns to honor Charles Thomas Stearns, a here take advantage of the area’s growing economy, friendly member of the Territorial Council, who had taken an active communities, affordable cost of living, and quality health part in securing the passage of the bill establishing the county. care. They also appreciate our educational opportunities Stearns moved to St. Cloud the following year and became a (home to St. John’s University, College of St. Benedict, St. prominent member of the developing city. His Stearns Hotel Cloud State University, Rasmussen College, Minnesota became the original building on the St. Cloud State University

Spotlight School of Business, St. Cloud Technical College, College campus. The legislative act organizing the county directed the of St. Scholastica, and St. Cloud Beauty College), year- Territorial Governor to appoint three county commissioners round recreation (compliments of our numerous parks, and designated St. Cloud the county seat. The County Board wetlands, resorts, campgrounds, golf courses, hunting first met in April of 1855, and according to the census Stearns areas, snowmobile and ski areas), and expanding cultural County had a population of 4,505 in 1860. There was an environment (historical societies, landmarks and events, attempt to move the county seat to Albany in 1913. As a more distinctive architecture, local attractions, community events, centrally located village though, St. Cloud has always been theatre, gardens, etc.). All this, set against the backdrop of the county seat of Stearns County. beautiful prairies, rolling hills, lush woodlands, colorful granite outcroppings and peaceful lakes and rivers, makes Stearns Stearns County opened its first Courthouse on July 12, 1864 County the best of both city and country. and continued to use it until 1922 when the current structure was dedicated. In the 1800s when commissioners would Stearns County land was home to Ojibwa, Dakota, Sioux and come to attend County Board meetings, they often left the Chippewa tribes long before the first European settlers called day prior to the meeting to get here on time, spending the it home. Stearns County borders the Mississippi River, the night in St. Cloud, conducting county business the next day. largest waterway in Minnesota, and was included in many The Courthouse was never fully locked in those days as there explorers’ travels including the Lewis and Clark expedition in were public restrooms the travelers from the far end of the 1805. Several more explorers came to this area during the county could use, and people would sleep in the attic if it was mid-1800s, fur trading posts were established, and St. Cloud too late to return to their homes. - the county seat - has roots back to 1853. In the early 1850s, the first large influx or immigrants began to arrive. Mostly of The current courthouse is a beautiful structure constructed German Catholic descent, early arrivals came from eastern of brick and granite and raised on a ten-foot pedestal. The states as well as directly from Germany. Craftsmen pursued Stearns County Courthouse is registered as a historic their former occupations, but the vast majority were farmers. landmark. The inscription that lies above the Courthouse’s

22 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 22 5/12/09 4:03:19 PM main entrance reads, “A land which is now part of the park in the early 1900s. Both Landmark of Civic Progress the Landmark Center and the James J. Hill House in St. Paul and a Memorial to Sturdy contain Saint Cloud Red Granite in their structures. This park Pioneers.” This best alone offers diagonal stride and skate cross-country skiing on describes the basis of the 4.3 miles of lighted trails, hiking, instructional & public SCUBA citizens of Stearns County’s diving, swimming, scenic overlooks, fishing ponds and Trout past and the outlook for its fishing, mountain biking, snowshoeing, rock climbing, and citizens of the future. It was environmental education opportunities, in addition to the completed September of scenic woodlands, open prairie, wetlands, and un-quarried 1922 at a cost of $850,000. bedrock areas. The dome is 109 feet tall, has an inner dome that is In addition to parks, Stearns County is home to local and 26 feet in diameter and has regional trails. The largest is the Lake Wobegon Trail which an outside dome that is 46 extends from St. Joseph to Sauk Centre and also has an feet in diameter. extension from Albany to Holdingford. The trail is used by bikers, roller-bladers, walkers, snowmobilers, and skiers The clock on the outside and runs among prairies, farms, forests, small towns, and weighs an astounding 2,000 pounds with the pendulum alone creeks. Stearns County parks and trails offer bike trails, boat weighing 200 pounds. A former St. Cloud jeweler claims the accesses, carry-in canoe accesses, canoe campgrounds, clock is made of such quality material that it will outlast any cross-country ski trails, fishing piers, group camp sites, clock in existence, including the highly-touted Big Ben of historic sites, nature centers, picnic areas, picnic shelters, London. The clock is eight feet tall, four feet wide, and two feet play areas, open prairies, river waysides, snowmobile trails, thick. In addition to the monstrous clock, the granite columns swimming beaches, swimming quarries, trailer campgrounds, at the main entrance are 36 feet high and 4.5 feet in diameter, trout fishing, and walking trails each weighing 50 tons. At the top of the main stairway is a mural depicting the pioneer heritage, which was painted in Major employers in the area (compiled from www. place at the time of construction for $18,000. In 1992, Disney scapartnership.com research data and the St. Cloud Area Studios even filmed the opening scenes of the movie “Mighty Chamber of Commerce) include: Ducks” in the historic Stearns County Courthouse. Employer Employees

Spotlight Centra Care Health Systems/St. Cloud Hospital 6,232 The first six county officers were appointed on April 9, 1855. Today Stearns County has 17 departments. In addition Coborn’s Inc. 2,062 to the growth of departments, the county has also seen State of MN (SCSU, SCTC, Correctional, DOT, etc) 2,182 great evolvement in the structure of its buildings. The ‘new’ Electrolux Home Products 1,850 Courthouse is the result of a $4.2 million renovation in 1991. The Courts Facility building opened in 1991 with granite slabs St. Cloud School District #742 1,899 of the original pre-existing structure being re-cut and refinished Veterans Affairs Medical Center 1,101 to give the building a flavor of the past, the Law Enforcement Gold’n Plump Poultry 867 Center was built in 1986 and houses the headquarters for Cold Springs Granite Company 850 both the City of St. Cloud and Stearns County, and the Administration Center was completed in 1990. Currently the St. John’s University 750 new 45,000 square foot Service Center is under construction City of St. Cloud 735 in Waite Park with plans of opening in the fall of 2009. Stearns County 698 Wolters Kluwer Financial Services 650 Recreational opportunities are abundant in Stearns County. The numerous lakes and rivers in Stearns County support a Top 2008 taxpayers in Stearns County included: thriving tourist trade. Many of the smaller towns in the county • St. Cloud Mall, LLC welcome visitors to their local resorts, attractions, or festivals. • Northern States Power Co. The Stearns County Park System consists of over 1,200 acres • IRET Properties which are both convenient and inexpensive. The largest park • Cold Spring Granite Co. in the system is the 643 acre Quarry Park & Nature Preserve • Coborn’s Inc. located in Waite Park. Formally known as “Hundred Acres • Welsh Fingerhut MN, LLC Quarry,” it is considered one of the most unique county • Allina Health System parks in the United States. Contained within the park are 30 • Levimo, LLC quarries, many of which have filled with water and are now • Beumer Baird, LLC ponds, reflecting pools, and swimming holes – one of which • Centra Care Health System is 112 feet deep! Saint Cloud Red Granite was quarried from • Menards, Inc. • St. Cloud Rainbow Village, LLC

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES 23

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 23 5/12/09 4:03:20 PM Interesting Stearns County Tidbits: • Of our 13 appraisal staff members (County Assessor, Assistant County Assessor, Senior Appraisers and Appraisers), we have a combined knowledge of assessment experience of 240 years! That averages to 18.5 years per person with an actual range of 7 to 34 years. • Mary Jacobs, Support Staff extraordinaire and licensed CMA, has been with our office for 33 years! That’s got to be some sort of record!!! • An annual study by e.Republic’s Center for Digital Government and the National Association of Counties (NACo) to recognize the hard work and innovation of America’s top digital county governments awarded the Stearns County website 2nd place in the less than 150,000 population category in 2008. Designed by renowned architect Marcel Breuer, this • Stearns County is the number one dairy production county gorgeous church serves as the centerpiece for the Saint in the state with over 900 dairies. John’s University campus. • Stearns County has approximately 2,600 livestock • Stearns County is known as part of “Granite Country USA” operations, the most in any county in the state. consisting of the St. Cloud Area and the Central Lakes • MaxBat, one of North America’s leading bat manufacturers area. for both professional and amateur players alike, produces • Cold Spring Granite, formed in 1890 as Rockville Granite its popular maple bats in Brooten, along the western edge Company, the leading quarrier and fabricator of natural of Stearns County. stone in North America, received LEED Gold certification • Cold Spring Brewing Co, the largest brewery in Minnesota, on its new 22,500 square foot corporate headquarters is located in Stearns County. They are the #1 producer of located in Cold Spring. energy specialty drinks in the country and the #1 producer • The Stearns County Assessor’s Office was nominated for of exclusive beer and craft beer brands for major retailers the Stearns County “2009 Team Player Award” for showing in the United States and other companies throughout the exemplary teamwork, vitality, flexibility, creativity, initiative, world. and reliability in both our regular assigned job duties and • The St. John’s Abbey Church is one of the most striking in the planning, implementing, and administrating of the pieces of contemporary architecture in America. “new” Green Acres program.

Spotlight Wright County

Wright County lies in County Coordinator to implement board policies and oversee East Central Minnesota, the functioning of county operations. The county organization bordered on the north by includes 15 departments which provide a variety of services the Mississippi River and to county residents. the east by the Crow River. Due to its proximity to the The Wright County Assessor’s Office is a stand-alone Twin Cities Metropolitan department. The assessment system in place employs 16 Area, this county is one of full-time county assessment personnel and 7 local assessors, the fastest growing in the all of which are MAAO or MAAP members. state. The Wright County Highway Department is responsible for all Farmland, rivers, and lakes characterize the landscape of activities involving Wright County’s 530 mile county highway Wright County. The county was established in 1855, and system. This system is split into 402 miles of County State named - after much debate - for New York politician Silas Aid Highways (which are financed mostly by state and federal Wright, a former U.S. Senator. Pioneers from all over Europe, funds) and 128 miles of County Roads (which are financed with a majority coming from Germany and Sweden, settled only by local property tax). About 50 bridges under county in what was then the Big Woods - large stands of oaks, elms jurisdiction are also included on these routes. and basswood - to make their living from the land. Buffalo was established as the county seat in 1868. The Wright County Sheriff’s Office is the sixth largest The Board of Commissioners, with five elected members, sheriff’s office in Minnesota. The Sheriff’s Office provides is the policy-making governing body. The board appoints a law enforcement services to the unincorporated areas of the

24 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 24 5/12/09 4:03:21 PM county and contract police services to 13 of the 16 cities in A visit to the Wright County Historical Society gives visitors the county. a sense of history of Wright County with exhibits on early settlers and pioneer life. Use the library to study your family’s The Wright County Parks system covers genealogy. See the famous 32-piece 29 county parks, park reserves, forests, one-man-band that was featured in the wayside rests, and lake accesses. An 1932 World’s Fair at Chicago and the excellent system of parks along the North 1926 Model T once owned and used Fork and main branch of the Crow River by Hubert H. Humphrey when he lived offers access to one of the region’s most in Waverly. Other historic sites around scenic and accessible state canoe routes. the county include an 1885 one-room Five parks feature swimming beaches for school and 1880 log cabin located summer fun. Two wooded campgrounds on the Wright County fairgrounds in with lake access provide campers with a Howard Lake, the Fairhaven Mill Historic spot to pitch a tent or park a camper. The Wayside, and the 1908 Chatham Town parks also offer 31.5 miles of trails, 17 Hall. miles of ski trails, six fishing piers, a twelve hole disc golf course, seven playgrounds, and seven picnic shelters.

Location of Region 3

Spotlight

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES 25

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 25 5/12/09 4:03:23 PM Region 3 County Staff Members

Benton County Assessor’s Office Staff: Sherburne County Assessor’s Office Staff: • Brian Koester, County Assessor, SAMA • Gerald Kritzeck, County Assessor, SAMA • Tim Jacobs, Appraiser, CMA • John Cullen, Chief Deputy Assessor, SAMA • Mary Pekarek, Deputy Assessor, CMA • Bill Riley, Residential and Commercial/Industrial Assessor, SAMA • Patti Miller, Certified Assessing Technician, CMA • Greg Olson, Senior Residential Assessor, SAMA • Linda Lefler, Assessing Assistant I • Shelly Murschel, Residential Assessor, SAMA • Carla Abrahamson, Residential Assessor, CMAS Chisago County Assessor’s Office Staff: • Jeanne Henderson, Ag Specialist and Residential Assessor, CMAS • John Keefe, County Assessor, SAMA, current position since 2002 • Theresa Quinn, Residential Assessor, CMAS • Patrick Poshek, Asst. Co. Assessor, AMA, current position since 2004 • Linda Bronson, Residential Assessor, CMAS • Lyn Regenaur, Appraiser, CMA, current position since 1990 • Beth Kautz, Residential Assessor, CMAS • Daryl Moeller, Appraiser, SAMA, current position since 2001 • Dave Selbitschka, Residential Assessor, CMAS • Dan Raboin, Appraiser, CMA, current position since 2005 • Doug Beise, Residential Assessor, CMA • Larry Sandberg, Appraiser, CMA, current position since 2005 • Peter Yager, Residential Assessor, CMA • Cathy Arth, Appraiser, CMA, current position since 2008 • Jackie Meyer, Office Supervisor, CMA • Carol Hauglie, Assessment Asst, current position since 1989 • Deb Nystrom, Commercial/Industrial Assistant • Naomie Thelander, Assessment Asst, current position since 1993 • Kristi Botzek, Administrative Assistant • Penny Herrmann, Administrative Assistant • Marti Delaney, Office Assistant Isanti County Assessor’s Office Staff: • Teri Skarp, Office Assistant • Michelle Bolen, County Assessor, SAMA • Kelly Schroeder, Deputy Assessor, CMA • Gene West, Appraiser, CMA Stearns County Assessor’s Office Staff: • Sandy Hartse, Appraiser, CMA • Gary Grossinger, County Assessor, SAMA • Lorri Houtsma, Admin Assistant III • Jeff Johnson, Assistant County Assessor, SAMA • Randy Lahr, Senior Appraiser, SAMA • Bob Lindvall, Senior Appraiser, AMA Kanabec County Assessor’s Office Staff: • Don Ramler, Senior Appraiser, AMA • Dan Weber, County Assessor, SAMA • Tina Diedrich-Von Eschen, Senior Appraiser, SAMA • Jodi Lindberg, Deputy Assessor, CMA • Mike Cebulla, Appraiser, CMA • Michelle Stemig, Appraiser, CMA • Cheryl Foster, Appraiser, CMA • Jody Anderson, Appraiser, CMA • Nancy Heinzen, Appraiser, CMA • Mike Holmen, Appraiser, CMA Mille Lacs County Assessor’s Office Staff: • Mark Koehn, Appraiser, CMA • Pat Stotz, County Assessor, SAMA CAE • Kathy Korte, Appraiser, CMA • Mary Jo Coleman, Deputy, SAMA • Kelly Lemke, Appraiser, CMA • Kurt Beckstrom, Appraiser, CMA • Jason Vaith, Assessing Technician • Steve Chmielewski, Appraiser • Janet Kaschmitter, Assessing Technician • David Vigdal, Appraiser, CMA • Mary Jacobs, Office Specialist IV, CMA

Spotlight • Lisa Braun, Clerical Staff • Barb DeRoeck, Office Specialist III • Joni Larson, Office Specialist III Morrison County Assessor’s Office Staff: • Glen A. Erickson, County Assessor, SAMA, RES Wright County Assessor’s Office Staff: • Dale F. Beierman, Appraiser, SAMA • Gregory Kramber, County Assessor, SAMA • Linda M. Collins, Appraiser, SAMA • Randal DesMarais, Assistant County Assessor, CMAS • Scott T. Kunkel, Appraiser, AMA • Conrad Anderson, Property Appraiser, CMA • Judy L. Liddell, Admin. Support Specialist II, CMA • Dawn Anderson, Assessment Assistant • Jean M. Popp, Appraiser, SAMA • James Borrett, Property Appraiser, CMA • Julie A. Shelstad, Records Specialist II, CMA • Jean Bresin, Property Appraiser, CMA • Shayla L. Strack, Records Specialist II, CMA • Melissa Janzen, Assessment Assistant • Michael L. Trettel, Appraiser, SAMA, CAE • Edie Kloss, Senior Clerk II • Gale A. Zimmermann, Appraiser, SAMA • Wanda LaSonne', Office Assistant • Danielle Lee, Appraisal Technician Pine County Assessor’s Office Staff: • Wally (Pete) Peterson, Property Appraiser, CMA • Mike Sheehy, County Assessor, SAMA, current position since 2003 • Chase Philipp, Property Appraiser, CMA • Troy Stewart, Dep. Co. Assessor, SAMA, current position since 2001 • Tom Praska, Property Appraiser, CMA • Lana Meier, Staff Appraiser, CMA, current position since 1974 • Anthony Rasmuson, Senior Property Appraiser, SAMA • Larry Veldhouse, Staff Appraiser, CMA, current position since 1989 • Lori Thingvold, Property Appraiser, CMA • Jennifer Mansavage, Staff Appraiser, CMA, current position since 2002 • Keith Triplett, Property Appraiser, CMA • Karen Stumne, Office Manager, CMA, current position since 1994

26 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 26 5/12/09 4:03:23 PM Featured Property: Verso Paper Mill Written by Kelly Lemke, CMA Appraiser Stearns County

The Verso Paper Mill was originally established in 1906, but began as Watab Paper in 1905. In 1946, it became known as St. Regis Corporation. In 1984, Champion International purchased the paper mill and transitioned into International Paper in 2000. Finally in 2006, it became known as what it is today - Verso Paper.

The original mill was built on the banks of the Mississippi River in 1905 in Sartell, Minnesota. The current mill makes lightweight coated and supercalendered paper used in Verso Paper employs nearly 3,000 employees and 471 of magazines, catalogs, newspaper inserts, and supplements. them work at the mill in Sartell. They represent a long and (Supercalendared is a set of steel and fiber-covered calendar distinguished papermaking tradition. It is their hard work and rolls that increase a sheet’s gloss and smoothness.) commitment to excellence that have helped Verso achieve its current market position as North America’s second largest The mill’s papermaking capabilities have been expanded producer of coated ground wood papers and lowest-cost through the investment of millions of dollars in advanced producer of coated fee sheet papers. Verso is open for manufacturing and environmental technologies. The original business 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. There are two paper mill was approximately 196,765 square feet. In 1982, different product lines, lightweight coated and supercalendared the mill began an addition which nearly tripled the size of the papers. Verso also has operations in place to support the facility - which today is 623,000 square feet. The result is manufacturing lines: a pulp mill (which includes the woodroom, a state-of-the-art facility designed to manufacture superior wood yard, TMP plant, and bleach plant), a utilities department products that meet and exceed the strict state and federal that generates power for the mill, a finishing department, and

standards for air, water, and waste emissions. other support group departments such as human resources, Spotlight finance, and purchasing. The mill’s commitment to the environment is long standing. Verso was one of the first paper mills to install a waste water The Mississippi River is an important part of the mill’s history treatment facility. As far back as the early 1960s, a number and daily operations. Since the mill’s early beginnings, the of improvements were made to decrease the amount of solids river has been used for electrical power generation in the going into the Mississippi River. Primary and secondary hydro plant, hydro power to run pulp-making grinders in the treatment plants were completed in the early 1970s. At the old ground wood mill, transportation of logs from up north to mill, the company has spent millions of dollars in pollution the mill, and as a water supply for the paper making process. reduction technology and on research to develop new In the early stages of the paper making process, the paper is and more efficient ways to preserve the environment. For approximately 95 percent water before it enters the dryer. The example, every part of the log when it arrives at the mill is put Sartell mill uses 9 to 10 million gallons of water per day. to good use. When the logs enter the mill, they are debarked. The bark is then burned in the paper mill’s large boilers to Verso Paper produces 1.8 million tons of paper each year. produce both energy and heat for the mill. The log is then On any given day, the mill uses approximately 400 cords of chipped into small pieces and eventually ground down into wood. This produces an eight foot wide sheet of paper that pulp to be used in the paper making process. would span from Sartell, Minnesota to Dallas, Texas.

Whether in the mill or in the forest, doing the right thing Verso currently owns or leases approximately 23,000 acres environmentally is a top priority for Verso Paper. Reducing of hybrid poplar plantations near Alexandria, Minnesota. pollution is critical to maintaining a sustainable manufacturing Harvest from these plantations provides a portion of the wood environment, and Verso Paper is aggressively pursuing goals supply to the mill. The remainder is purchased on the open aimed at continuous performance improvement in these market. Verso primarily uses two different types of wood in areas. the paper-making process, aspen/hybrid poplar (which is hard woods) and balsam/spruce (which are soft woods). The In addition to being a leader in environmental practices, Verso perfect combination of both hard and soft wood makes the Paper also contributes greatly to the community it resides in. best quality paper. The mill is very active in the community by sponsoring many activities and is a major contributor to the United Way.

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES 27

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 27 5/12/09 4:03:24 PM The paper which Verso produces is primarily used for four-stage cleaning system. Cleaned pulp is thickened and magazines and Sunday paper inserts. Some of its largest stored in large towers prior to being transferred to the bleach customers are: Time Magazine, Coldwater Creek, Victoria’s plant. Pulp is bleached in order to make a white sheet of Secret, Sears, K-Mart, Avon Cosmetics, Kohl’s, Best Buy, paper. Since TMP is not strong enough for machine room or Office Depot, and Home Depot. Verso keeps a step ahead of pressroom run ability, they add a more expensive pulp (kraft) the competition in the paper business by giving its customers with the TMP to produce an acceptable grade of publication the power to create, communicate, and work productively to paper. achieve their highest potential. Verso’s keen focus on free sheet and ground wood papers for magazine publishers, From Pulp to Paper catalogs, advertisements, and commercial printers enhances When pulp arrives at the paper machine it is 95% water. its ability to serve by continually improving the products, The dilution control head box discharges the pulp evenly processes, and service to meet each customer’s specific between the two endless forming fabrics in the gap former needs and stay competitive. section of the paper machine. As water drains between the fabrics, pulp fibers and additives remain between the fabrics, The Paper Making Process forming a sheet of paper. In the gap former, a forming roll and The mill in Sartell is part of Verso’s paper coated and vacuum boxes help remove water to rapidly form sheets. The supercalendared paper group. Two paper machines produce press section squeezes out as much water from the sheet as uncoated paper. A third paper machine, which started up possible. The paper then moves on to the dryers where any in July of 1982, produces lightweight coated paper used by remaining moisture is evaporated. some of the nation’s top circulating weekly and Coating monthly magazines. Prior to coating, the dried sheet passes between two steel rolls From Logs to Chips in a calendar stack to smooth T h e p a p e r m a k i n g out the surface. The coating process starts in the used resembles thick white wood yard. Eight foot house paint and provides a logs arrive by truck from smooth printing surface as well northern Minnesota and as improved brightness and Wisconsin. Softwood (fir/ opacity. In the coater section, spruce) and hardwood the top side of the sheet is (aspen/hybrid poplar) coated and, after passing are separated in the through a dryer section, is wood yard. In order to then coated on the bottom side. Spotlight get pulp from the wood, The coated sheet is wound into logs must be stripped a reel at the end of the paper of all bark. Softwood machine. The logs of paper at is debarked in a slowly the reel weigh nearly 25 tons. rotating drum barker At the rereeler, the paper is while aspen (hardwood) bark is removed via a mechanical rewound and defects such as wrinkles and holes are removed ring debarker. The debarked logs then travel to separate and permanent splices are installed. This is an operation hardwood and softwood chippers. In just two-and-a-half conducted to ensure efficient supercalendar run ability. seconds, the chipper chews up an eight foot log, ten inches in diameter, into chips three-quarter of an inch long and a Supercalendars, Roll Wrapping, and Shipping quarter-inch thick. After screening to remove oversized chips At the supercalendars, the rough, dull, unfinished sheet and sawdust, the chips move on to storage bins where hard of paper is changed into the glossy ink-receptive paper and soft woods are stored separately. demanded by the customers. The supercalendars smooth and gloss the print surface as the paper weaves back and forth Pulping and Bleaching through a series of cotton filled and steel rolls. The finished Wood is made up of individual fibers bonded together by a log of paper is taken to the winder where it is wound and natural glue, lignin. In the pulping process, wood chips are cut into individual rolls as specified by individual customers. changed to a fiber/water suspension. At the mill, chips are The rolls are then sent to wrapping where they are wrapped mechanically disintegrated in the TMP (Thermo Mechanical separately to guard against damage. The entire roll wrapping Pulp) plant. The TMP process softens the chips and lignin system is almost entirely automatic. In the paper warehouse with steam and heat in the digester. A three-stage disc refining in Sartell (which can store up to 5,000 tons of finished paper), operation then converts the chips to pulp. Unrefined wood the rolls are kept until they are exported by railcar or truck and dirt that remain after the refining go through a screen and to the printers.

28 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 28 5/12/09 4:03:24 PM Tracking the Paper Product from Order to Customer community pride and spirit are the driving forces that keep The mill’s MAJIQ product tracking system is the key to the Verso mill successful year after year. The commitment managing customer’s orders. Once the orders are placed at to excellence is proven every time a new roll of paper is Verso’s corporate sales office, they are combined and sent shipped to the printer. Next time you pick up the Sunday to the mill for scheduling. As the paper is produced, data is paper and flip through the Kohl’s advertisement, remember continually updated and order status information is available that the very paper you are holing in your hands was made to customers. Access to accurate and timely information from trees grown in Minnesota, processed with water from such as production status and ship date is a critical need for the mighty Mississippi, and made into paper at Verso Paper customers in meeting their business objectives. Therefore, in Sartell, Minnesota. Verson makes providing this information a high priority in the manufacturing process of its top quality paper. Once the Photos by: Kelly Lemke label has been placed on the roll of paper and it is scanned, it Diagram from Verso Paper, Sartell MN needs to match the customer number in the computer. Then Printed with permission after review by Verso Paper it is ready to leave the facility. A special thank-you to Bryan Hansen, Product Quality Operations Coordinator, and Kathy Opatz, HR Specialist, for the wealth of The Verso Paper Mill is an important part of the region’s information provided and time shared to let us tour. economy. The mill’s impact on the lives of its neighbors extends beyond employment numbers and payroll figures. Corporate giving and volunteering are the cornerstones of the mill’s operating philosophy. Quality paper products, superior customer service, environmental responsibility, and

Spotlight

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES 29

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 29 5/12/09 4:03:25 PM Meet Minnesota’s New SAMA and AMA Designees Written by Jake Pidde, CMA City of Plymouth Editorial Committee Member

SAMA Designees

Brian Connors Mary Black Brian Connors, Scott County, was awarded Mary Black, Cook County, was awarded the the SAMA designation on December SAMA designation on February 3, 2009. 2, 2008. His education Her education includes courses: A, B, H, includes courses: A, H, J, K, IAAO 102, 151, and many approved K, AIREA alternates for seminars. Ms. Black’s Form Report passed B, Capitalization Theory the Grading Committee in Parts A and B (both are June 2005, and she passed income courses), IAAO the Residential Case Study 102, 151, PACE, and many Examination in August seminars. Mr. Connors’ 2006. Ms. Black passed Form Report passed the Income Case Study the grading committee Examination in December in April 2008, and he 2008, and she has 5 years passed the Residential of assessment experience. Case Study Examination Congratulations to you, in September 2008. He had a successful Mary! oral interview with the Board in September 2008. Mr. Connors passed the Income Case Study Exam in November 2008, and he has 10 years of assessment experience. Congratulations to you, Brian!

Marc Iverson Marc Iverson, Renville County, was awarded Joyce Schmidt Joyce Schmidt, Pipestone County, was the SAMA designation on December 2, awarded the SAMA designation on 2008. His education includes courses: A, December 2, 2008. Her education includes B, H, Basic Income Approach, Supervision courses: A, B, H, J, K, IAAO 102, 151, and and Management, IAAO 102, ProSource many seminars. Ms. Schmidt’s Form Report 105, PACE, and a number of seminars. Mr. passed the Grading Committee in September Iverson’s Form Report passed the grading 2006, and she passed the Residential Case committee in October 2005, and he passed Study Examination the same month. Ms. the Residential Case Study Exam in August Schmidt had a successful oral interview 2006, He had a successful interview with with the Board in September 2006 and the Board in November 2006. He passed the passed the Income Case Study Exam in Income Case Study Exam in November 2008 October 2008. Ms. Schmidt has 6 years of and has five years of assessment experience. assessment experience. Congratulations to Congratulations to you, Marc! you, Joyce!

30 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 30 5/12/09 4:03:25 PM AMA Designees

Daniel Blonigen Jason Langer Daniel Blonigen, Jason Langer, Washington County, was Hennepin County, awarded the AMA on December 2, 2008. was awarded the His education includes courses: A, B, H, AMA designation on J, K, 2-day February 3, 2009. His USPAP, and education includes s u f f i c i e n t courses: A, Mass s e m i n a r s . Appraisal Basics, Mr. Langer’s Highest and Best Use & Form Report Market Analysis (520) and Advanced Sales passed the Comparison & Cost Approaches (530) from g r a d i n g the Appraisal Institute, USPAP, IAAO 151 c o m m i t t e e & 102, a successful challenge to Assessment i n M a r c h Administration, and a Bachelor’s Degree in 2007, and he Real Estate from St. Cloud State University. passed the Mr. Blonigen has 3 years of assessment Residential experience. Congratulations to you, Dan! Case Study Exam in February 2008. Mr. Langer has 12 years of assessment experience. Congratulations to you, Jason!

Kevin Wynn Kevin Wynn, Hennepin County, was awarded the AMA designation on December 2, 2008. His education includes courses: A, ProSource 101-105, H, J, a To recognize the accomplish- successful challenge to Course K, and many additional ProSource ments of new AMA and SAMA courses. Mr. Wynn’s Form Report desginees we are spotlighting passed the grading committee in September 2008, and he passed them as they are awarded by the Residential Case Study Exam in October 2008. Mr. Wynn has the State Board of Assessors. 9 years of assessment experience. Are you a new designee? Congratulations to you, Kevin! Get your photo ready!

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES 31

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 31 5/12/09 4:03:25 PM A Follow Up on “A Challenging Market” in Brooklyn Center Written by Nancy Wojcik, SAMA City of Brooklyn Center Assessor MAAO Secretary/Treasurer MAAO Editorial Committee Member

“A Challenging Market” was published in the Spring 2008 issue of Equal Eyes. In this ar- ticle, author Nancy Wojcik follows up on the state of the Brooklyn Center market

The finalization of the 2009 assessment left all physical condition, some properties were Our Local Board of Appeal and Equalization assessors with an understanding of the impact found that had significant water damage, had only thirteen appeals, of which six were of the economy and foreclosures on market mold, frozen pipes, and damaged electrical residential properties. Of the six, only three value. Almost all single family, townhomes, services with no attempt to repair the were actual buyers of lender-mediated condominiums, co-ops, triplexes/duplexes, property made by the mortgage company. homes who questioned their value. This, to and four-unit apartments were impacted. Many characteristics had to be adjusted me, was a huge success as I felt our office Our city reached a record number of non- to remove or change condition, quality, was effective at educating the citizens open market transactions representing a total or basement finish. Some homes required through our contact at tax time and value of 72% of our total sales. The preparation of extensive removal of interiors due to mold notification. While very time consuming, a fair, equitable, and defendable assessment damage or physical property damage from the thoroughness of verifying the assessment was our objective - based on 88 open market vagrants. While owners may have left the and all data was very effective in that transactions. Educating the community on property disgruntled, a significant number of every staff member felt confident and well market value versus taxes became a driving properties were damaged due to the inability prepared for the numerous questions we issue for the Assessor’s Office starting of the banks to “winterize” them effectively. received. with the mailing of the Truth in Taxation Many properties were marked as partially notices prior to the finalization of the 2009 complete, or contained unfinished areas, to Looking forward, as stated earlier, the assessment. Educating citizens on “open account for the significant amount of repairs market continues to decline for open market market transactions” and the timing of needed to return the property to a habitable sales, but it is slowing. We have seen a assessments and property taxes forced itself condition. While you may think that these resurgence of lender-mediated sales, but to the front burner immediately. factors are noticeable from an exterior actual improvements are being made to these review, it is unbelievable the number of properties in order to resell them for a profit. With so few open market transactions, the properties that had been remodeled, newly While finance and grant programs continue availability of comparables to discuss with sided, and updated by owners through to concentrate on first-time home buyers and the local citizens was limited but still a refinancing only to be abandoned by them. families, traditional financing still remains high priority. In addition, every citizen that difficult. This in itself has exploded into called compared their home to “all” sales on When the assessment was completed and price reductions and investor purchases in the block, so additional information on the value notices mailed, the overall adjustment our city. My first thought was: here come lender-mediated sales was crucial. While to single family homes in Brooklyn Center the rentals. I realized soon after that an very time consuming, the effort put into was -12.34%. The average assessed value occupied home is better than a vacant home. investigating CRVs and lender-mediated was $159,500, with an average sale of The fact remains that we must maintain our sales, and spent reviewing the physical $170,747 for a 1,000 sq. ft. rambler during housing stock to help the community. The condition of properties paid off. We had the sales study period. The MLS was investors coming in and renovating homes many neighbors that appreciated knowing reporting an average open market sale price to resell or updating properties to rental code the difference between an open market of single family homes in April of $151,000 accomplishes that mission, also. sale comparable and the lender-mediated and a lender-mediated average sale price sales on their block. We also provided a of $103,500. In order to accommodate Sample properties have been included to list of open market sales by style, size, and questions from the public effectively, represent the “stages” of the market impact neighborhood for all property owners who statistics for both lender-mediated and open in Brooklyn Center. had a concern with their value. market sales were needed. While some jurisdictions were able to use “short sales,” Our office continued physical inspections Brooklyn Center had only four sales of a of properties through December to verify total 232 sales rejected that could be used as characteristics of many lender-mediated verified “shorts,” so “shorts” were not used sales. While many remained in average or representative of the market.

32 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 32 5/12/09 4:03:25 PM A Follow Up on “A Challenging Market” in Brooklyn Center

4925 Beard Ave N., Brooklyn Center Original Open Market Sale 12/2003 $157,224 Bank Sale “As-Is” 12/2008 $ 47,000 Pending Sale after Renovations $115,900

4618 65th Ave N., Brooklyn Center Original Open Market Sale 02/2007 $192,000 Bank Sale “As-Is” 07/2008 $ 69,001 Resale 01/2009 $169,955

5921 Bryant Ave N., Brooklyn Center Original Open Market Sale 02/2005 $176,000 Bank Sale “As-Is” 05/2008 $ 83,000 Resale 02/2009 $118,340

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES 33

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 33 5/12/09 4:03:25 PM Residential Sales Trends in the City of Alexandria Written by Reed Heidelberger, SAMA City of Alexandria Assessor

The economic downturn and the declining housing market have received much attention in the media over the past year. Reports of the majority of houses on city blocks being in foreclosure, entire new developments being left vacant, and plummeting home values are considered the norm for the real estate market today. I am sure every assessor has had property owners asking, “How come my value isn’t down, or down more? Don’t you watch the news?” Often the assumption, sometimes unspoken, sometimes spoken very loudly, is that the assessor does not pay attention to or has no clue about what is happening in the market. The reality is that assessors see more data and crunch more numbers about the market in their jurisdictions than the vast majority of property owners ever do.

There are, however, a couple of catches. First, assessors are looking at market data for their particular jurisdiction and that The numbers of total and good sales were Even as the number of sales has fallen, data might be quite different from what is down 8% and 18%, respectively, for the however, the median sale price of the happening elsewhere in the state or nation. most recent period, which is less than the homes sold has continued on an upward Second, the data we have represents the 26% and 30% drop between the two trend. The next chart shows the median past - what has happened in the market. previous periods. This may be an indication sale price of all the good sales reported in It may or may not be a good reflection of that the market is settling back to a volume the previous chart. what is currently happening in the market, that is closer to the historical trend. and trying to use it to predict the future of the market is even more difficult. With this in mind, I would like to share a little bit of what we have been seeing here in the City of Alexandria.

I will focus only on the residential market as that is where we have enough sales for meaningful analysis. The residential real estate market in Alexandria continues its retreat from the record high volume of sales seen in the period from 2002-2006. The chart labeled “Residential Sales” shows sales of single family residential properties in the City of Alexandria from October 2007 to September 2008 and for that same period in previous years. The sales are shown as total number of sales and the number of those total sales that were “good” sales (i.e. included in our sales ratio study.

34 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 34 5/12/09 4:03:25 PM Residential Sales Trends in the City of Alexandria

Alexandria saw a fairly rapid increase in One final chart shows the number of median sale prices beginning in the new foreclosures of single family homes in the millennium. This increase was not as city. rapid nor as large as was experienced in some other jurisdictions in the state, but it was significant for Alexandria. (There is comparatively little lakeshore property in the city limits. Therefore, while there are some lake properties included in these figures, they do not reflect the larger and higher value properties in the Douglas County lakes area.) It is interesting to note that the increase began leveling off in the 2005-2006 period, but was still increasing through the 2007-2008 period. For comparison, the median sale price of good sales in the first part of the most recent sales period (October 2008-March 2009) has declined to $131,000, but that lower figure is still well within the new, higher range established in the last few years. The number of foreclosures is up sharply were owned by a single individual, and one In the area of new construction, the number for the most recent period. Even at this had been owned by the same individual of new single family homes being built in higher number, however, foreclosures who had six foreclosed properties in the Alexandria has decreased over the last four only represent 10% of total sales in the previous period. This suggests that the years. It reached a peak of 90 and 92 houses city. This is far from a situation where number of foreclosures may be somewhat built in 2003 and 2004, respectively, then “the foreclosures are the market,” as one artificially inflated, in which case it may fell to 73 in 2005, 55 in 2006, 43 in 2007, developer tried to tell me. It is interesting not continue on the same trend and increase and just 29 in 2008. While that decline is to note that those 21 foreclosures included 30%. Five of those eight rental properties dramatic, it is again helpful to look at it 14 that were rental properties (six of which were purchased by individuals who are terms of the historical trend for Alexandria. were owned by a single landlord) and two now occupying them as their homesteads. The years 2003 and 2004 were record- partially completed “spec houses.” Only As of April 30, 2009, there are five breaking ones for new home construction five of the foreclosures were on owner- foreclosed properties that are owned by - the crest of a rising wave. The 29 in 2008 occupied homestead homes, and of the 16 banks (i.e. properties already included in is much closer to the norm of 30-35 per non-owner occupied homes, seven were the foreclosure count but not yet re-sold). year in past years. purchased by individuals who are now occupying them as their homesteads. The While even one foreclosure is a bad thing, foreclosed properties were also clustered particularly for the individuals involved, in the bottom half of our value range, with these numbers do have somewhat of a “silver a median value of $121,300 and only six lining” for several reasons. They show that above $150,000. the number of foreclosures is far from being a majority of the market in Alexandria. The Foreclosure numbers for the current period, majority of foreclosures that are occurring from October 2008 to March 2009, seem are non-owner occupied properties. They to indicate that the number of foreclosures are not cases of people losing their own may increase again, perhaps by as much as primary residence, although there is the 30% if the present trend continues. For the potential that the renters may be losing 15 foreclosures that were completed during their residence. This in turn is giving some that period, the same ownership trend people a chance to own their first homes. noted above is continuing as well. Eight of The low number of bank-owned properties the foreclosed properties were non-owner shows that foreclosed properties are getting occupied rental properties. Four of those back into the market relatively quickly,

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES 35

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 35 5/12/09 4:03:26 PM Real Estate Trends, Continued

rather than standing empty and abandoned some of the worst effects of the economic to make the headlines and grab attention. as in other parts of the country. The sales downturn and the problems in the housing As the market’s rise in Alexandria was not ratio has also been remarkably consistent market. It may be that those negative so steep, its decline should not be as steep, for foreclosed properties that are resold. factors will take longer to unfold here, and either. Alexandria’s position as a regional The median ratio has remained solidly in we will continue to see downward trends micropolitan community helps support the range of 130-140%, indicating that and increased foreclosures in the local real continued economic development, even although the properties are selling at a estate market. during the recent downturn. Alexandria’s discount, they are not necessarily selling at location in the lakes area also makes it a “fire sale” prices. A more optimistic alternative, based on very desirable place to live, even during several factors, is also possible. Although economic down times. The hope is that As I mentioned at the beginning of this the real estate market in Alexandria did these positive factors will continue to article, these numbers are based on what increase significantly over the past 10 years, mitigate the negative economic forces, and has happened in the past and as the warning that growth did not occur at the exponential though they will not totally eliminate them, goes, “Past performance is not a guarantee rate seen in some other areas. Many of perhaps they will help soften the impact on of future performance.” It is difficult to those areas, like Florida or Las Vegas or the Alexandria community. Only time will make predictions about what direction even areas within Minnesota, are now the tell. the market may be headed in the future. ones seeing the most dramatic declines. Alexandria has so far been sheltered from Those are the areas and properties that tend Foreclosures Written by Jake Pidde, CMA City of Plymouth Editorial Committee Member

Finance and Commerce reported that during surrounding suburbs is hard to measure. If some specific areas where foreclosures are the first quarter of 2009, the Twin Cities you are just looking at how many homes are more prevalent, those offices are choosing metro area ranked 74th in foreclosures currently in foreclosure, you are missing the to use a discount rate to account for the drop nationwide - just behind Milwaukee. Las bigger picture. Thousands of homes have in value. Vegas ranked number one with 4.5% of already been sold for much lower prices than houses receiving a default or auction notice traditional home sales. or being seized by a lender. Foreclosure activity in the Twin Cities is up 71% from How are these foreclosures and short-sales the first quarter of 2008 but only 9.7% from affecting the market and in turn affecting the fourth quarter of 2008. assessed values? There are a lot of variables that come into play. In speaking with metro In the next few months, the Obama area appraisers, foreclosures are handled administration expects to make a big dent somewhat differently depending on who you in the foreclosure crisis. But it remains to be speak to. Most jurisdictions throw out all seen whether the lending industry will totally short sales and foreclosures and appraise the embrace their efforts, despite a promise of property at market value without considering $75 billion in incentive payments. lender-mediated sales. Other jurisdictions will work with the buyer and review the The impact that foreclosures have had on property and possibly lower the value due the Twin Cities and how it has affected the to condition issues - if only for that year. In

36 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 36 5/12/09 4:03:26 PM MAAO Course Review Real Estate Trends, Continued Transitions Noreen Curry Retires After 45 Years to “pull up our big girl panties and deal with it.” Those admonitions were always accompanied by a smile, a hug, or at least a pat on the back.

Noreen’s career as an assessor began on a cold day in 1964. Noreen decided she needed to earn money to buy a clothes dryer, as her fingers were cold from hanging baby diapers on the Noreen and her husband, Dennis, live in What do Noreen Curry and Larry the Cable clothes line. (Noreen was St. James. Noreen will keep busy quilting, Guy have in common? “green” before we knew that green was more gardening, playing with grandchildren, than a color.) Her father, a member of a visiting children, and writing articles for her The both have the ability to make us laugh town board, encouraged her to attend classes son’s local newspaper in Fairfax. and a “Git R Done” attitude. (he even accompanied her). That was the beginning of a long career as an assessor. When certain assessors in Region II (who Noreen worked as a local assessor in shall remain nameless) would grumble Renville County and then began in about new laws and impossible tasks to Watonwan County in 1978. In 1988, accomplish, we always had Noreen to tell us Noreen became the County Assessor Foreclosures in Watonwan County.

Region II celebrated with Noreen at its December meeting, and Watonwan County entertained in her honor on February 27th. Noreen says she will miss the people – coworkers and taxpayers. I am sure they will miss Noreen’s smiles and hugs.

Attention Region Directors

Please send all Region retirements, promotions, etc to [email protected]

Summer 2009 EQUAL EYES 37

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 37 5/12/09 4:03:26 PM International Items

Written by Bill Peterson, SAMA, CAE Dakota County Assessor MAAO Past President IAAO Representative MAAO Finance Committee Chair

IAAO Financials are Sound that IAAO education and designation Professional Designations: Receive According to Tom May, IAAO Executive qualifications meets the requirements certification that recognizes professionalism Board member, the organization’s of mass appraisal including the new and competency in matters regarding financials are very sound. Like everyone, standards established by TAF. The property appraisal and assessment for IAAO is concerned about the current organization awaits TAF’s response. property tax purposes. worldwide economic picture. Tom Stay tuned. assures us that every decision IAAO is Peer Networking: Meet other assessment making attempts to preserve its current New Member Dialogue Opportunities professionals to share common ideas, financial picture. One of the top benefits of being a part of concerns, and interests. Tap the IAAO an association is networking. IAAO has brain trust with IAAO’s new on-line Education Committee Rewrites developed a presence on the hotly-touted networking forum AssessorNET. The IAAO Education Committee is in sites LinkedIn and Facebook. Members Share and receive ideas at conferences the process of rewriting several items. can have immediate conversation, and seminars. Locate other members All mass appraisal courses are being expressing ideas in a dialogue format through Member Look-Up. redone, as well as the Mass Appraisal rather than a speaker/listener dynamic. of Real Estate textbook. The two day Check it out today! Publications: Fair & Equitable and Journal Highest and Best Use workshop is also of Property Tax Administration, IAAO’s being redone. New Membership Discount monthly and quarterly publications, As of December 31, 2008, IAAO had bring you up-to-the-minute perspectives Foreclosure Papers to be Combined 7,485 members worldwide. That is an and research on today’s assessment As you may be aware, IAAO currently increase of 4% since 2004. We would issues. has two papers published on its web site all like to see that number continue dealing with foreclosure properties. The to grow! I would like to remind you Library Services: Access to a research paper published jointly by MAAO and that IAAO has a special offer for library featuring 10,000 volumes of the Minnesota Department of Revenue new members. First time members literature and over 600 periodicals. was used as a reference in the February will receive a half price membership 28, 2009 document. Congratulations discount ($87.50) if they contact a state Members-only Access and Discounts: to both the department and MAAO! representative. If you are interested Receive rates on publications, text At its meeting in April 2009, the IAAO contact: Jan Olsson, 763-509-5355; Mark books, technical standards, seminars, Executive Board directed the responsible Krupski, 507-281-6293; Tom May, 612- and conference registration. Utilize committees to combine these reports 348-3527; or Bill Peterson, 651-438-4200. special sections and resources on the into one document to become the official Additionally, Steve Behrenbrinker, IAAO Website including access to the position of the organization. This is 320- 650-3352; or Teresa Mitchell, 651- library through Memberlink and the expected to be completed and posted on 438-4200, can get you the same discount Glossary for Property Appraisal and the web site by the time you read this. as Professional Designation Advisors. Assessment. Sign up today!!! The Appraisal Foundation (TAF) Leadership Opportunities: Become and Qualification Issues Key Reasons to become an IAAO author in one of IAAO’s publications. The Appraisal Foundation has been Member Help shape industry policies by in the process of redefining appraiser Education: Cost effective education volunteering for a committee, or qualifications for the past couple of programs help you meet the challenges consider running for the IAAO Executive years. This created quite a stir amongst of an increasingly complex career. Board. many IAAO members and included IAAO offers a range of educational discussions of giving up our seat on opportunities for the beginner to the TAF board. At their meeting in seasoned professional. Textbooks are April 2009, the IAAO Executive Board know for their depth and quality of approved a “statement of compliance” information.

38 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 38 5/12/09 4:03:26 PM Cargill, Inc. Written by Theresa Quinn, CMAS Sherburne County

Cargill is an international producer and business empire that was overleveraged Holland, and Argentina. The company marketer of food, agricultural, financial, and and had grown too quickly. It was obvious weathered the financial turmoil of the industrial products and services. Founded in to his son-in-law, John MacMillan, that the 1930s, as well as a major legal battle with 1865, the privately held company employs company had to be restructured in order to the Chicago Board of Trade. It introduced 160,000 people in 67 countries. satisfy the needs of bankers and customers. new innovations to the industry, including The question was whether MacMillan a teletype wire system (first constructed in Cargill begins in Iowa under the leadership could act fast and strategically enough Omaha, Nebraska) and the establishment of a of W.W. Cargill to preserve the core elevator and grain grain laboratory. Many of these innovations trading business. John MacMillan, as originated directly from Cargill’s new Cargill’s new leader, took quick action. He leader, John MacMillan, Jr. By the 1940s, negotiated with the banks and convinced Cargill had diversified into feed, soybean them to extend credit and give the company processing, seed, and vegetable oil. time to meet its debts. He dissolved much of the businesses outside of the profitable Erwin Kelm becomes the first non-family grain trading, moved the headquarters to member president and Cargill celebrates Minneapolis, and created a plan that would 100 years remove the debt burden over time. Also, M a c M i l l a n implemented i m p r o v e d a c c o u n t i n g p r o c e d u r e s to give management a Starting at the close of the American better financial Civil War in 1865 with one grain storage picture of Left to right: Cargill opens in Canada, 1928; John MacMillan, Jr., 1927; warehouse in Conover, Iowa, Will Cargill the company. the Carlantic on its maiden voyage, November 1941. followed the expansion of the railroad Within six system throughout the newly settled prairie years, the debts In the 1950s, Cargill emerged as a major to gather and process grain. Soon, his two were paid off and Cargill was positioned international merchandiser and processor brothers, Sam and James, joined his business for growth. of agricultural and other commodities. venture and established the company’s Building on strengths, Cargill began global headquarters in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Cargill becomes international, and initiatives with grain-and-oilseed exports As grain and the railroads moved west, diversifies outside of the grain trade Cargill followed with new terminals in the Minnesota towns of Minneapolis, Buffalo, and Duluth. Besides the growing number of elevators, the Cargills were involved in insurance, flour milling, coal, farming, real estate, lumber, and a railroad. .

John H. MacMillan, Sr., guides the company through a financial crisis In 1910, Cargill confronted perhaps the Left to right: Cargill opens in Canada, 1928; John MacMillan, Jr., 1927; the Carlantic on greatest challenge to its existence. The its maiden voyage, November 1941. established grain trader, having grown and the development of a transportation throughout the new states in America’s north Still largely a regional grain trader, Cargill and grain elevator system that enabled it central region, had accumulated too much grew steadily throughout the 1930s and to respond to worldwide demand for basic debt. In 1909, Cargill’s founder, William 1940s and established offices in Canada, agricultural products. In 1964 Cargill issued Wallace Cargill, died, leaving a small

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56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 39 5/12/09 4:03:26 PM its first formal annual report to stockholders Cargill moved even further up the value Cargill Animal Nutrition Innovation which reported sales of nearly two billion chain. The company evolved from trading Campus in Elk River, Minnesota dollars, over 5,000 employees, expansion of soybeans, to processing them into meal and a soybean plant in Spain, two feed mills and oil, to producing high-value natural vitamin The Cargill Animal Nutrition Innovation a seed plant in Argentina, and the purchase E from a soybean byproduct. And it moved Campus is located in Elk River, about of the Hen Voerders company to expand from trading corn, to processing corn into 30 miles northwest of Minneapolis. It Cargill’s feed operations throughout Europe. ethanol and fructose, to creating a whole is the hub of the Cargill Animal Science Grain handling and merchandising, soybean new family of renewable products - from Technology Development Center and processing, flour and corn milling, seed and plastics to fabric - made from corn. serves a key role within the emerging animal feed production, and salt processing Cargill Center of Nutritional Sciences. fueled domestic growth and continued to Serving customers in many diverse play an active role beyond North America. ways The Innovation Campus collaborates Symbolically, the following year saw the with members of the Cargill Animal one-hundredth anniversary of Cargill, and Thousands of customers turn to Cargill for Sciences Technical Development Center in the tenth anniversary of Tradax, its Geneva- innovative solutions across its five major Europe, which is located in Belgium, The based extension. market segments, including: Netherlands, and Italy. • Agriculture: Cargill originates, The Innovation Campus houses many Diversification of businesses and partners processes, and distributes grain, lead Cargill out of the twentieth century resources used to help identify and validate oilseeds, and other commodities scientific principles related to nutrition. Its to makers of food and animal Under Whitney MacMillan’s leadership, extensive laboratories are equipped to enable nutrition products. It also provides Cargill diversified with new operations in the identification of animal responses to crop and livestock producers with beef, pork, and poultry processing, steel nutrients, creative analysis of nutrients, and farm services and products. making, citrus processing, petroleum trading metabolic modeling to explain how nutrients • Food: Cargill collaborates with and merchandising, international metals, are used in the body. food manufacturers, foodservice fibers and tropical commodities origination companies, and food retailers and trading, and fertilizer production. By The Cargill Innovation Campus - known to help them better serve their its 125th anniversary in 1990, Cargill, its informally as the research farm - celebrated customers. It provides high- subsidiaries, and affiliates operated in its 50th anniversary in 2008. Located at quality food and beverage 57 countries representing nearly 55,000 10383 165th Avenue, it was established ingredients, as well as meat and employees – over 10 times the number 25 in 1958 after Cargill purchased more than poultry products. years earlier. 800 acres of land for $55,000. Cargill • Health: Through applied science, closed a small research facility in Missouri, Cargill adopts a new brand and shifts Cargill develops health-promoting transferred the manager to Elk River, focus to partnering with customers ingredients and ingredient and with a handful of local employees systems for makers of dietary and established the new research facility. By the end of the twentieth century, pharmaceutical products. changes in the food industry, including • Risk Management: Cargill Today, the 900-acre campus employs consolidation and tightening commodity provides its agricultural, food, about 100 people, 26 of them with Ph.D.s. margins, meant Cargill could not prosper if financial, and energy customers About 30 additional people are affiliated it kept commodity transactions at the center with risk management and with the campus, according to Mike Craig, of its business. Cargill began forming financial solutions in world technology director for both the Innovation closer relationships with customers to markets. Campus and Cargill’s Animal Science provide them with solutions to their • Industrial: Cargill serves Technology Development Center. pressing business concerns. It recognized industrial users of salt, starch, that its success was inextricably linked to and steel products. It also The facility’s role in Cargill’s operations its customers’ success. develops and markets sustainable products made from agricultural Cargill’s animal nutrition business develops Cargill’s goal of becoming the premier feedstocks. and markets a broad range of animal global food and agriculture company feeds and customized animal productivity pushed a renewed emphasis within the solutions to commercial producers in 27 company on innovation and technology. countries across North and South America,

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56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 40 5/12/09 4:03:26 PM challenge in that industry. Fish research is another frontier Cargill is exploring, with the additiona of an aquaculture facility in 2006. Most of the work Carbill has done to date has been on tilapia and hybrid striped bass. Assuming that Cargill gets the permits it needs to proceed, it also plans to conduct Tucked away on a tidy farm in Elk River is a place where experts have been exploring some research specifically with shrimp and the intricacies of animal nutrition for decades. trout in the future.

Europe, and Asia. Its branded products are sold in the aqua, beef, dairy, poultry, pork, and pet food segments, and its consulting services unit provides technical services, technology licensing, and management services to customers globally. feed or to get the animals to grow faster. Along the way, Cargill has helped put Elk Now the facility is researching everything State-of-the-art lab is located on campus River on the map. Last year alone, 1,600 from omega 3 fatty acids in milk and eggs, people visited the campus. Hundreds of to leaner pork, to getting higher breast The Cargill Innovation Campus is home them were from around the world. There yields in chicken and turkeys because to a state-of-the-art lab. Some of the work is even a special flagpole at the site to people prefer white meat. The feed animals being done there involves studying the recognize foreign visitors. When no foreign receive are based on a desired outcome nutrient value of corn byproducts from the guests are present, the Minnesota flag is for people, whether it’s healthier milk or ethanol industry. The lab also utilizes near flying; otherwise the flag of the visitors’ whether it’s healthier meat. Traditional infrared reflective spectroscopy (NIR), country is raised. measures like average daily gain and food which uses light to determine the nutrient efficiency are considered, but it’s a low content of various ingredients. The campus Cargill produces animal feed for about any priority nowadays, whereas initially that also has a feed mill where the feed for the species you can think of. That translates was the only priority. experimental diets is manufactured. into thousands of formulations globally. Feed formulations even vary according to There are buildings at the innovation campus Overall, there is a core of expertise at the regional preferences. Take the color of devoted to dairy, poultry, pork - even fish. campus. The facility has chemists, animal egg yolks, for instance. You can change There can be as many as 2,000 chickens, nutritionists of every kind, NIR experts, the color of the egg yolk by what you feed 1,150 pigs, 2,250 fish, and 230 dairy cows, and modeling and statistics experts. With the animal. In some regions of Spain, for heifers, and calves at the campus at a given all these people together and focused on example, people prefer egg yolks that are time. About 75 Holstein dairy cows are helping customers, powerful things can very deep orange. The poultry feed sold milked three times a day at the facility. happen. there is formulated to have that outcome, They average 78 pounds of milk per cow while in Great Britain more yellow yolks per day. The kind of research done now The source of information for much of are preferred, resulting in a different is focused on understanding the nutrients this article was found at www.cargill.com formulation for the feed. that cows need to make milk and to make it and the July 22, 2008 Elk River Star News more nutritious. The milk produced at the (erstarnews.com).

campus is sold locally, and has won awards As Cargill changes and evolves over the for its quality. years, so does its research The facility also studies alternatives to Initially the farm focused on poultry and antibiotics. In the case of poultry, for pork. Research revolved around improving example, Cargill Animal Nutrition is looking average daily weight gain in livestock so at alternatives to antibiotics in combating they would grow faster or be more efficient. necrotic enteritis, a disease that poses a Work was done to get the same gain for less

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56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 41 5/12/09 4:03:26 PM MAAO Annual Conference 2009 October 4-7, 2009 Bloomington, MN Ramada MOA www.ramadamoa.com Commissioner’s Session

Educational Seminars Tentatively-scheduled Topics Include: • Government and the Media MAAO Business Meeting • Appaising in a Difficult Market and Current Sales Ratio Issues MAAO Officer Elections • Residential Appraisal • GIS / Pictometry IAAO and NCRAAO Presentations

Annual Banquet

Entertainment Watch for Night Join us for a registration details on night down- www.mnmaao.org on the town via the coming metro light soon! Town! rail.

42 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 42 5/12/09 4:03:26 PM In My Opinion As I See It Written by Rebecca Malmquist, SAMA, CAE 2009 City of Minnetonka Senior Appraiser Equal Eyes Managing Editor Editorial Committee Chair

Warmer weather is upon us, the Local Boards of Appeal and Option for Electronic Only Version of Equal Eyes Being Equalization are wrapping or have wrapped up, and Summer Discussed Seminars are here. While everyone remembers going through the discussions of Equal Eyes being distributed electronically only for an issue Editorial Committee Position Opening or two in attempt to save some money for the association, the The Editorial Committee has once again seen some change. members that voiced their opinion were in favor of keeping it in Marci Moreland, Carlton County Assessor has resigned from her printed paper copy format. The topic has been brought forward position on the committee. Marci has been on the committee for again, but this time in the framework of allowing members to several years and has been an important contributing member. choose the format in which they would prefer to receive the pub- Her enthusiasm and hard work will be missed by all of us on the lication. I have been having discussions with Teresa Mitchell, the committee. This resignation leaves a vacancy that soon needs to IT Committee Chair as well as President Hacken. This will be an be filled. I sent an email to MAAO membership asking anyone agenda item for the Executive Board meeting on May 19, 2009. I who is interested in serving on the committee to contact me. I have researched the cost savings and will present my findings at would like to fill the position by the time we start to work on the that time. We could, via the website, allow members to select if fall issue of Equal Eyes. Please contact me by phone or email by they would like a paper copy or the electronic copy that is pub- Friday, June 26, 2009, if you are interested in serving on the com- lished on www.mnmaao.org. mittee. This is an active committee which requires work on each There will be more information to come… stay posted! issue of Equal Eyes. In addition to assisting on each issue, we meet four times a year either in person or by teleconference. All Print Raffle meeting expenses are covered by the committee budget. Com- Region 2 has been generous enough to donate a print to raffle mittee members also assist in the Summer Seminars by selling at Summer Seminars. Tickets will be available from Editorial raffle tickets and taking photographs. Assistance is occasionally Committee members. The drawing will be held following lunch requested at the Annual Conference to take photos or assist in on Wednesday, May 20, 2009. The proceeds go into the Editorial various projects. Committee budget. Thank you Region 2!

Call for Articles As always, we are looking for articles. We would like to tap into members who have not yet written for Equal Eyes. Many of you have ideas for articles. If you need help getting started, locat- ing resources or just with help writing, please contact myself or one of the other committee members. Do you want to write an article, but can’t settle on a topic? Contact us, we will get you started!

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56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 43 5/12/09 4:03:27 PM EQUAL EYES PRESORT STD PUBLISHED BY THE MINNESOTA CHAPTER OF IAAO AND U.S. POSTAGE THE MINNESOTA ASSOCIATION OF ASSESSING OFFICERS PAID 13636 5th Avenue North Plymouth MN 55441 PERMIT NO. 27 MAPLE GROVE, MN

44 EQUAL EYES Summer 2009

56572_EE_summ09_5.indd 44 5/12/09 4:03:27 PM