At the county board’s November 10 meeting, new County Administrator James Joerke recommended that commissioners “make a finding that it would be imprudent to allow in-person participation at the December 1, 2020, Truth in Taxation public meeting.”
Noting the recent rapid rise in COVID-19 cases in the County, Joerke further explained that the majority of cases have been identified in the last few weeks, indicating that community spread (i.e., transmission resulting from person to-person contact) is taking place. People meeting in indoor spaces, even if masking and social distancing recommendations are followed, can increase the likelihood of transmission, Joerke said.
While Joerke pushed against having an in-person meeting, he added, “At the same time, the county strongly desires public input on the proposed levy and encourage residents to provide feedback on the proposal.” He cited three ways for that to happen.
1) By participating in the meeting via Zoom videoconference using a link on the county website.
2) By participating via telephone using a call-in number that will be posted on the county’s website, or
3) By sending written testimony to the County Administrator at james.joerke@co.cook. mn.us
Commissioners agreed with Joerke and the December 1, 2020 Truth in Taxation meeting will be conducted via Zoom videoconferencing.
Any testimony received will be read by the Administrator Joerke at the public meeting and entered into the meeting’s public record. The public is invited to call Administrator James Joerke at 218-387-3687 with any questions.
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