Douglas County Board Meeting June 18, 2024

It’s a big yes for the next step in a new library in Douglas County. At the June 18 meeting, the Douglas County Board of Commissioners approved a letter of intent to accept the donation of 10 acres to be used only for a new library. In front of a crowded room, the commissioners heard from Library Board Chair Becky Albright that Brent and Sally Smith have donated land they own on Jefferson Street. The property is commonly referred to as the old Jefferson site. The goal now is to raise funds, build and open a new 34,000 square foot facility by 2028. Board Chair Keith Englund thanked everyone working on this project, including the members of the steering committee. Commissioner Shane Schmidt echoed the feeling that it’s great to keep education on a piece of property that has a long history of education. Albright agreed saying, it’s come full circle. The Smiths received a round of applause for their generous donation of land.

Public Works

County Engineer and Public Works Director Tim Erickson received permission to purchase a lot at 405 S. McKay Avenue. This lot is on the southwest quadrant of McKay Avenue and County State Aid Highway 82. Erickson said it is needed for future improvements to the busy intersection.

Land and Resource Management

Director Dave Rush presented a conditional use permit approved by the Planning Advisory Commission for a private vacation home rental on Lake Cowdry with two units. Any time a private vacation rental is more than one unit, a conditional use permit is required. The two units, which are a main cabin with a kitchen and a bunkhouse must be rented by a single entity and the total overnight guest capacity is 6 persons under the age of 6. Following the vote there was a short discussion on whether the board should review the number and location of private vacation rentals in the county.

The next board meeting is Tuesday, July 2 at 9 a.m. It will be held at the Administration Building 821 Cedar Street, Alexandria.