Getting Involved in Otter Tail County

Otter Tail County, MN – Otter Tail County invites residents to actively shape their community by serving on local boards, advisory committees, and task forces. Openings become available as terms expire, and residents are encouraged to contribute their perspectives and skills.

The county seeks representation from a diverse range of residents to ensure a variety of viewpoints and expertise in decision-making on the Board of Adjustment, Planning Commission, Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Task Force and Community Development Agency (CDA)

The boards serve specific roles to guide county governance:

Board of Adjustment: This board reviews variance applications to county ordinances and hears administrative appeals. Composed of five members, one from each commissioner district, plus a Planning Commission representative. Members are appointed annually and serve a three-year term.
Planning Commission: This commission evaluates conditional use permits and preliminary plat applications in shoreland and non-shoreland areas and provides recommendations to the County Board of Commissioners. This committee comprises ten members appointed by the County Board of Commissioners who serve a three-year term.
AIS Task Force: The task force members promote public awareness, education, containment, and research and provide recommendations to the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners. AIS Task Force: This task force has ten voting members and six technical advisors
CDA Board: The agency aims to strengthen county communities by expanding housing opportunities, promoting business development, and fostering the coordination of public and private resources. This agency is governed by a nine-member board of commissioners who serve a 6-year term.

Boards collaborate to support Otter Tail County’s goals and vision. Board members are paid a stipend and mileage. Interest forms are managed through the Land and Resource Management and CDA Offices.

Residents interested in serving are encouraged to fill out the interest form for boards that align with their interests and expertise. To learn more about available positions or to submit your interest form, visit the Otter Tail County website or contact the Land and Resource Management Office at 218-998-8095 or the CDA at 218-998-8050.

Story courtesy of Otter Tail County.