By MaryHelen Swanson

Peace officers, commonly known as policeman and policewoman and deputies, don't often get recognized for the work they do or the sacrifice they make for their fellow citizens.

Nationally, and in Chisago County, the week of May 13-19 will be declared National Law Enforcement week.

Tuesday, May 15, will hold yet another title, Peace Officers' Memorial Day, in honor of those law enforcement officers who, through their courageous deeds, have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their community or have become disabled in the performance of duty.

The Chisago County Board of Commissioners adopted a resolution setting this special week knowing the vital public service that the men and women of the law enforcement agencies of Chisago County provide.

In adopting the resolution, the board calls upon all citizens of Chisago County and upon all patriotic, civic and educational organizations to observe the week with appropriate ceremonies and observances.

As Sheriff Todd Rivard sat before the commissioners, he said he was there to ask for nothing, beyond the approval of this week of observance.

Rivard also introduced the Sheriff's department chaplains and the commissioners learned about the program which is overseen by Deputy Mary McCarthy. (See page 15 for more details).

In other business, the commissioners received an "atta boy" from Chisago Lakes Township resident Jim Froberg.

Froberg commended the commissioners on a good job with the recent purchase of highway equipment. Froberg, who purchased equipment for the University of Minnesota for many years, commended County Engineer Bill Malin and Assistant Engineer Joe Triplett on a job well done.

With recent requests for wireless antennae to be placed in the county, Commissioner Lynn Schultz had thought it necessary to hire a consultant to do a review of the county's ordinance on tower placement.

County Administrator John Moosey and county planner Patrick Hollister had met with a Garrett Lysiak of Owl Engineering and EMC Test Labs, Inc., about hiring him for this jog.

Owl came back with an offer of $2,500 last week and Schultz moved to accept the quote from Owl with duties to include a review of the current wireless ordinance and make recommendations on amendments to modify the ordinance.

Her motion was seconded by Commissioner Bob Gustafson, but after lengthy discussion, the motion was withdrawn.

Commissioner Ben Montzka felt the county didn't need to hire a consultant when it has a planner.

It was noted that about five years ago the county worked on an ordinance on towers that was never formally adopted.

One of Schultz's concerns was the health risks with such towers. Is there proof of such risks. she asked?

The issue will return at future county board meetings, county staff will continue to review it.

Montzka's motion to approve payment for furniture for the new Health and Human Services building in North Branch was unanimously approved, the furniture claims are as follows:

• Alternative Business Furniture, Inc.; $6,995.94

• Alternative Business Furniture, Inc.; $2,826.73

• Alternative Business Furniture, Inc.; $1,077.14

• Alternative Business Furniture, Inc.; $2,822.42

The Board also set a Regional Rail Authority meeting for 1 p.m. May 23, in the County Board Room.