Year: 2021

December 14, 2021 Township Board Meeting Minutes

Meeting was called to order at 7:31 p.m. by Charles Kuettel.

Attendance
Town Officers: Supervisor Charles Kuettel, supervisor Donald Swanstrom, supervisor Doug Dressen, clerk Amber Cruz, and treasurer Carol Nelson
Guests: Raymond Barnes

Clerk’s Report
The Following changes were made to the November 9, 2021 Minutes: under Clerk’s report, public comment was changed to read as follows: “under Old Business, in reference to the easement on Moose Lake Road, the wording was changed..”
Motion to accept the November minutes, to include the change, was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0.
Motion to accept the clerk’s report was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0.

Treasurer’s Report
November
Total Funds on hand as of 11/01/2021 (Includes Investments)                      $185,255.87
Plus: Deposits                                                                                     $67.44
Interest on Accounts                                                   $67.44
Less: Disbursements                                                                           $494.75
Payroll                                                                         $261.75
Other Expenses                                                           $233.00
Total Funds on hand as of 11/30/2021                                                           $184,828.56
November check # 1729-1734

December
Deposits (December)                                                              $0
Claims (December)                                                                 $1065.46
December check # 1735-1743
No transfers to the Checking Account will be needed at this time

Motion to accept the treasurer’s report was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

Old Business

• Update on deputy treasurer, deputy clerk and election judge openings: Letters have been mailed. Waiting until the first of the year to do interviews/hire.
• Update on the township website: The map of the township parcel needs to be updated. The contact list needs updated with current contact information. A review on the portion about protocol for masks, etc. needs to be done.

New Business

• Board for Pequaywan Inn: Motion to approve the purchase of a new board with approval of size by the owner Nick was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0
• Upcoming meetings: Monthly Board meeting is to be held on January 11, 2022. The Board of Audit meeting is to be at 7 p.m. on January 25, 2022 followed by the Budget meeting at 7:45 p.m.. The Schedule for March 8, 2022 will be as follows:
• Election 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Annual Board Meeting 8:30 p.m.
• March Board Meeting 9 p.m.
• Board of Canvass Meeting 9:15 p.m.

Motion to approve meeting times and dates was provided by Dressen. Motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

Correspondence
Received

• Email from the Minnesota Association of Townships on Veterans Day, thanking veterans for their service
• Email from Kristin Fogard of St Louis County AG Inspectors containing the 2021 Township and City Year End Invasive Report
• Email from Phil Chapman of St Louis County Elections with information on the VEGA – 3 Grant Application
• Email from the Minnesota Association of Townships containing the November newsletter
• Email from Cathy Rouleau of St Louis County Association of Townships with the tentative agenda for the SLCAT agenda for the 12/01/2021 meeting
• Email from St Louis County Elections with election information for the 2022 March Township elections, as well as a reminder on upcoming deadlines
• Invoice in the amount of $12.50 from Daisy Wallace for the Township website administration.
• Email from Jon Blevins of St Louis County Elections with a reminder of an upcoming deadline

Sent

• signed consent form back to Frontier Communications
• letters of the open deputy clerk, deputy treasurer and election judge positions to residents of Pequaywan Township
• updated contact information and an updated township officer list to the Minnesota Association of Townships

Public Comments

Dressen was asked by a Pequaywan resident if there were any objections to having the township trailed groomed for cross country skiing. The board has no objections.

Next Meeting January 11, 2022 at the Pequaywan firehall. The location will be reassessed 2 weeks prior to January 11, 2022 Township Board meeting. Any changes in location will be made at that time in accordance with Minnesota Association of Townships and the State of Minnesota

Motion to adjourn the meeting was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried 3-0-0

Meeting was adjourned by Kuettel at 8:22 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,

Amber Cruz, Clerk

November 9, 2021 Township Board Meeting Minutes

Meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Chuck Kuettel.

Attendance
Town Officers: Supervisor Chuck Kuettel, supervisor Donald Swanstrom, supervisor Doug Dressen, clerk Amber Cruz (via phone), deputy clerk Lita Wallace and treasurer Carol Nelson
Guests: Ted Wallace, Bonnie Dressen, and Raymond Barnes (stopped to return some keys/didn’t attend the meeting)

Clerk’s Report
The October 12, 2021 Township Board Meeting minutes for approval. The following changes were made: The ending check number for October 2021 was changed from 1726 to 1728. Under Old Business, referencing the easement on Moose Lake Road, the wording was changed to read as follows: “The Township is going to contact Minnesota Association of Townships for advice, and if it is ok the Township will hire a lawyer.” Motion to approve the October minutes to include the changes was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

Treasurer’s Report
October 2021
Total Funds on hand as of 10/01/2021 (Includes Investments)                                  $188,061.72
Plus: Deposit                                                                                       $124.50
Interest on Accounts                                       $124.50
Less: Disbursement                                                                            $2791.83
Payroll                                                             $824.13
Other Expenses                                               $441.51
Form 941 Taxes                                              $404.94
St Louis County Plowing                                $1121.25
Total Funds on hand as of 10/30/2021                                                                       $185,255.87

November 2021
Deposits (November) – $0
Claims (November) – $494.75
November check # 1729 – 1734
No transfers to the Checking Account is needed at this time

Motion to accept the treasurer’s report was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

Old Business

• Update on the deputy treasurer and deputy clerk position: Job opening notices will be mailed to residents that are on the election roster. The job openings will also include the position of election judges. A notice of the open positions will also be posted on the website as well as the Pequaywan Lake Association. The clerk will contact the new owners of the Pequaywan Inn to find out about posting the openings as well as public notices. A motion to approve the mailings as well as postings was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0
• Update for the 66’ easement on the Moose Lake Road: Kuettel contacted Minnesota Association of Townships to inquire and ask for guidance whether the township could be liable if it sponsors the request. Also told them that the township does not want to be liable. This is to acknowledge that the township will not be doing anything anymore on this matter. For this reason, John Wilson will be working directly with the county and state.
• Update on the township website: The Clerka and Daisy Wallace will continue to work on updating information on the township website
• Update on LBAE training: Swanstrom was reminded that the training needs to be completed

New Business

• Staking for snowplow turnaround: The staking is planned in the area where there is a slope towards the lake. The staking will help warn the plow driver where the edge of the road is. The staking will allow the driver to determine where the slope is located and help the driver know where/how far they can push the snow. This is to try and prevent property damage to private property in the area. A motion to approve the purchase of staking material as well as the placement of the stakes was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Dressen, the motion carried 3-0-0
• Frontier Communication requests road Access and permission to bury cable. A motion to accept Frontier Communication’s request was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0. All paperwork was signed and will be mailed promptly

Correspondence
Received

• Email from Debbie Peterson of Lake Superior School District containing information on who will be paying the election judges fr the November 2, 2021 school election
• Email from Debbie Peterson of Lake Superior School District with the official times of the school election
• Email from Debbie Peterson of Lake Superior School District verifying if election judges are needed from other precincts
• Email from Debbie Peterson of Lake Superior School District with information on the pay rate for the election judges
• Email from Lola Haus Lake County Election Administrator stating that the Automark cards and ballots were sent to the townships, but that there was a problem with the software for any St. Louis County townships. The Automark card will not work on any St. Louis County townships.
• Email from Lisa Sweet of St Louis County elections office verifying election judges
• Email from Lola Haus Lake County Election Administrator with updates on the Automark media cards. New cards have been ordered.
• Email from Phil Chapman of St Louis County Clerk of County Board/ Elections Supervisor containing election reminders and information
• Email from Lora Skarman of St Louis County Assessor’s Office with LBAE training availability reminder
• Email from Debbie Peterson of Lake Superior School District with new wage information for Pequaywan Township judges
• Email from Cathy Rouleau of St Louis County Association of Townships on the upcoming monthly meeting
• Email from Heather Gregor of Frontier Communications on the request for access for bury cable on township road
• Email from the Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) containing the October 2021 newsletter
• Email from Cathy Rouleau of the St Louis County Association of Townships containing the minutes of the SCLAT monthly meeting
• Email from Lola Haus of Lake County Elections administration stating the new Automark cards were in and directions on where to pick them up at
• Email from Daisy Wallace containing updates on research and work done for/on the township website
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace for the sum of $37.50 for website administration
• Missing payment invoice reminder from Daisy Wallace for the sum of $12.50 for last month’s website administration
• Email from Lisa Sweet of the St Louis County Elections verifying election judges and the need to find one more judge
• Email from Debbie Peterson of Lake Superior School District with directions on where to return election materials
• Email from Lita Wallace containing her resignation of deputy clerk.
• Email from Phil Chapman of the St Louis County Elections department with the news that Lisa Sweet has transferred to a different department
• Email from the Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) with a notice that the MAT Insurance and Bond Trust has mailed a packet with Worker’s Compensation Invoices and Audit forms.
• Received a packet from MAT Insurance and Bond Trust containing the Worker’s Compensation Invoices and Audit forms

Sent

• Email to Debbie Peterson of Lake Superior School District with questions regarding the upcoming school election
• Email to Debbie Peterson of Lake Superior School District asking what the pay for the election judges is to be
• Email to Daisy Wallace with website update requests
• Email to Debbie Peterson of Lake Superior School District with judges update
• Email to Lisa Sweet of St Louis County with election judges update
• Email to Debbie Peterson of Lake Superior School District inquiring where to drop off election materials
• Phone call to the Lake Superior School District with election results

Public Comment
There was no public comment at this time

Next Meeting December 14, 2021 at the Pequaywan firehall with the additional option of attending via teleconference. The location will be reassessed 2 weeks prior to December 14, 2021 Township Board meeting. Any changes in location will be made at that time in accordance with Minnesota Association of Townships and the State of Minnesota

A motion to adjourn the meeting was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

Kuettel adjourned the meeting at 7:55 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,

Amber Cruz, clerk

Lita Wallace, deputy clerk

October 12, 2021 Township Board Meeting Minutes

Meeting was called to order at 7:30p.m. by Chuck Kuettel.

Attendance
Town Officers: Supervisor Chuck Kuettel, supervisor Donald Swanstrom, supervisor Doug Dressen, clerk Amber Cruz, deputy clerk Lita Wallace and treasurer Carol Nelson
Guests: Raymond Barnes, Ted Wallace, and John Wilson

Clerk’s Report
The September 14, 2021 Township Board Meeting minutes for approval. Motion to approve the minutes was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

Treasurer’s Report

September
Total Funds on hand as of 09/01/2021 (includes investments) $189,167.49
Plus: Deposits (September)                                                                 $131.70
Interests on Accounts                                        $131.70
Less: Disbursements (September)                                                   $1237.47
Payroll                                                                     $1237.47
Other expenses
Total Funds on hand as of 09/30/2021       $188,061.72
September Check # 1707-1716

October 2021
Claims (October) – $2,482.02
October Check # 1717-1728
No transfer to the Checking Account will be needed

The Township Certificates (cds) became due in October. It was decided to roll the cds over for one year then reevaluate. A motion for the rollover was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

A motion to accept the treasurer’s report was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

Old Business

• Update on West Branch Rd: Repairs were performed on the road by Kuettel, Swanstrom and Dressen. The large tree that was near the shoulder of the road was pushed back by Mark Freeman and John Wilson.

New Business

• Deputy treasurer and deputy clerk openings: Permission to make a public notice about the openings was granted. The public notices will be posted on the Township webpage as well as the Pequaywan Lakes Association Facebook page
• Township brush pile: A total of 148 loads were brought in this year over the 3 open days. Richard Arndt provided the assistance on the 3 brush drop off days
• Lake Superior School District elections: The clerk is to contact Debbie Peterson of Lake Superior School District ISD 381 for clarification on who is paying the judges, the time of the election and who all can vote in the election
• The clerk is to send an updated Officers list to the Minnesota Association of Townships. Carol Nelson is to be added to the list and Lynne Scalzo is to be removed from the list

Correspondence
Received

• Email from St. Louis County Planning and Community Development on the decision for the application for variance from Donald King
• Email from Spencer Kellum on landscape Scale Restoration (LSR) – MN & MI Grant DRAFT application
• Email from Phil Chapman Clerk of County Board /Elections Supervisor for St Louis County on possible election judge data requests
• Email from Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) on the approaching deadline for the American Rescue Plan Act
• Forwarded email from Molly Thompson containing a letter from the Sugarloaf in support of the USDA-FS-2022 Landscape Scale Restoration Grant
• Email from MAT containing the September 2021 Newsletter
• Email from Spencer Kellum on the decision to pull the plug on the grant application
• Email from Debbie Peterson of Lake Superior School District ISD 381 on the upcoming districts elections
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace for $12.50 for website administration duties
• Email from Ida Rukavina of Range Association of Municipalities and Schools (RAMS) on the October 4, 2021 deadline for the American Rescue Plan Act
• Email from St Louis County Elections department in response to an email sent to them by Amber Cruz-Pequaywan Township Clerk
• Forwarded email from Kathy Rouleau of St. Louis County Association of Townships on the upcoming goto meeting codes
• Letter from St. Louis County Public Works Department containing the AR Snowplowing 2021-2022 1^st Half Billing for $1,121.25
• Email from Bradley Gustafson on the 2022 CDBG Pre-Applications
• Email from MAT on the extension of the American Rescue Plan Act deadline
• Email from Ida Rukavina of RAMS on the extension of the American Rescue Plan Act deadline
• Email from Lola Haus of the Lake County Auditor office on where to send the Lake Superior School District election materials

 

Sent

• Email sent to St Louis County Elections Department for clarification on the upcoming Lake Superior School District’s election
• Email to Debbie Peterson of Lake Superior School District on their upcoming election
• Email to Lola Haus of the Lake County Auditor Office with the Pequaywan Township clerk mailing address for the Lake Superior School District election materials

Public Comment

• John Wilson is asking for the Township to sponsor the easement on the Moose Lake Road, with Wilson covering all expenses. The Township is going to contact Minnesota Association of Townships for advice, and if it is ok the Township will hire a lawyer. The Township lawyer is going to work with John Wilson’s lawyer. The Township lawyer will also contact the state and St Louis county for clarification on the sponsorship. A motion for the Township to obtain a Lawyer was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Dressen, the motion carried 3-0-0

Next Meeting November 9, 2021 at the Pequaywan firehall with the additional option of attending via teleconference. The location will be reassessed 2 weeks prior to November 9, 2021 Township Board meeting. Any changes in location will be made at that time in accordance with Minnesota Association of Townships and the State of Minnesota

A motion to adjourn the meeting was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

Kuettel adjourned the meeting at 8:23 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,
Amber Cruz, Clerk

September 14, 2021 Township Board Meeting Minutes

Meeting was called to order at 7:31 pm by Charles Kuettel

Attendance
Town Officers: Supervisor Charles Kuettel, supervisor Doug Dressen, supervisor Donald Swanstrom, clerk Amber Cruz, deputy clerk Lita Wallace (via teleconference), treasurer Lynne Scalzo, deputy treasurer Raymond Barnes and Carol Nelson(new treasurer hired effective September 14, 2021)
Guests: John Wilson

Clerk’s Report
The August 10, 2021 Township Board Meeting minutes for approval. Motion to approve the minutes was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Dressen, motion carried 3-0-0

Treasurer’s Report
AUGUST 2021
Total Funds on hand as of 08/01/2021 (Includes Investments)    $183,930.91
Plus: Deposits (August)                                                                 $6,651.44
Taconite Production Tax                                    $2,653.00
General Fund                                $530.60
Roads/Bridge Maint. Fund     $2,122.40
MN DNR                                                                     $3,866.48
Interest on Accounts                                            $131.96
Less: Disbursements (August)                                                    $1,414.86
Payroll                                                 $540.24
Website Administration              $31.25
Road Maintenance                         $750.00
Other Expenses                               $93.37
Total Funds on hand as of 08/31/2021                                                 $189,167.49
August Check # 1698 – 1706

SEPTEMBER 2021
Claims (September) – $1,441.79
September Check # 1707 – 1716
No transfers to the Checking Account will be needed.

Motion to accept the treasurers report was provided by Dressen. Motion was seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried 3-0-0

Old Business

• Update on West Branch Road: The road needs repaired soon, there are 8 to 9 areas that need attention. Supervisors are going to buy supplies from Menards and patch the areas of the road that need repaired. The amount of $300 has been approved to purchase the needed materials for the repairs. A motion to approve the $300 was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Dressen, motion carried 3-0-0
• Treasurer update: Carol Nelson was sworn in by clerk Amber Cruz. The August township board minutes were signed so that Carol can be added to the Township bank account

New Business

• Update on Township Levy Request: The 2022 Levy Certification Form has been submitted to the county
• Request by Rick’s tree service to accept their wood chips. A notice will be placed on the Township webpage that the wood chips will be available. The Lake Association will also be given a flyer to post on the Association’s Facebook page.
• Resolutions 2021-006, 2021-004 and 2021-005 are not opening correctly on the Township website and resolution 2021-003 is missing. Amber is to work with Daisy Wallace to fix the links.
• Weed control: Money for help in dealing with invasive species for our watershed is available. A letter of support for MN DNR Forestry & Fisheries, Lake SWCD, & DCISMA. Motion for Dressen to write letter of support by September 28, 2021 was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried 3-0-0

Correspondence
Received

• Email from Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) containing the August 2021 newsletter
• Email from MAT with an invitation to the MAT District 10 meeting and update on director election
• Email from MAT with a reminder of the MAT District 10 meeting
• Email from Phil Chapman, Clerk of County Board/Elections Supervisor of St Louis County with information on redistricting OSS training
• Email from Brad Gustafson of Planning and Community Development St Louis County Government Services Center on the 2022 CDBG open house
• Email from Jonathan Blevins of St Louis County containing a forwarded email with updates from the Office of the Secretary of State regarding redistricting training
• Email from Jessica Myhrer of Rick’s Tree Service requesting permission to dump wood chips
• Email from MAT with information on “Township Tuesdays”
• Email from MAT with an invitation to The Minnesota Association of Township’s 2021 Education Conference and Annual Meeting
• Email from Daisy Wallace with an invoice of $25.00 for website maintenance
• Email and phone call from John Wilson requesting to be added to the agenda to discuss the Moose Lake road easement
• Email from Brad Gustafson of Planning and Community Development St Louis County Government Services Center with a reminder for the 2022 CDBG open house
• Letter from MAT on in-person training for the ARPA Funding.
• Letter from Nancy Nilson of Saint Louis County Auditor with the Township Final Levy Certification form for taxes payable 2022

Sent

• Email to Quinn Carlson of Sain Louis County Auditor requesting the Township Final Levy Certification Form
• Letter to Nancy Nilson of Saint Louis County Auditor with the Township Final Levy Certification form for taxes payable 2022
• Letter to Lisa Sweet of St Louis County Auditor- elections with the completion form for the online clerk elections training
• Letter to Lisa Sweet of St Louis County Auditor- elections with the completion form for the online election judge training.

Public Comments

• John Wilson requested to discuss the Moose Lake Road easement. Wilson needs the easement to be from Hwy 44 to the end of Moose Lake Road. Wants the township to sponsor the easement with Wilson covering all expenses. Wilson was requested to hire a lawyer to help. The easement request will be visited at the October Board meeting.

Next Meeting October 12, 2021 at the Pequaywan firehall with the additional option of attending via teleconference. The location will be reassessed 2 weeks prior to October 12, 2021 Township Board meeting. Any changes in location will be made at that time in accordance with Minnesota Association of Townships and the State of Minnesota

A motion to adjourn was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

Kuettel adjourned the meeting at 8:16 pm

Respectfully submitted by
Amber Cruz, Clerk

August 10, 2021 Township Board Meeting Minutes

Meeting was called to order at 7:31 p.m. by Charles Kuettel.

Attendance

Town Officers: Supervisor Charles Kettel, supervisor Donald Swanstrom, supervisor Doug Dressen, clerk Amber Cruz, deputy clerk Lita Wallace, treasurer Lynne Scalzo and deputy treasurer Raymond Barnes
Guests: Ted Wallace and Carol Nelson

Clerk’s Report

Copies of the July board meeting minutes were provided to all who attended. An update to the “new business” section was made. Donald King was added to the Application for Variance portion. A motion to accept the changes and the corrected minutes was made by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried 3-0-0

Treasurer’s Report

July 2021
Total Funds on hand as of 07/01/2021 (Includes Investments)  $159,049.65    Plus: Deposits (July)                                                                                       $26,110.34
May/June Tax Apportionment                                          $25,155.87
General Fund                                      $6,924.96
Roads/Bridge Maint. Fund           $6,943.29
Fire Protection                                   $9,534.96
Roads/Bridge Capital Fund           $1,752.66
State of MN Town Aide                                                         $826.50
Interest on Accounts                                                              $127.97
Less: Disbursements (July)                                                                           $1,229.08
Payroll                                                                                         $527.86
Website Administration                                                      $45.00
Payroll Federal Withholding (Form 941)                    $545.22
Other Expenses                                                                       $110.00
Total Funds on hand as of 07/31/2021                                                    $183,930.91    July Check # 1689-1697

August 2021
Claims (August)          $1,414.86
August Check # 1698-1706
No transfers to the Checking Account will be needed

Motion to accept the treasurers report was made by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Dressen, motion carried 3-0-0.

Old Business

• Update on West Branch Rd: Repairs were completed. There will be a new bid placed to do more repairs before the winter season
• Update on the American Rescue Plan: The township doesn’t meet all the qualifications for the ARP.
• Update on the Board of Appeal and Equalization training: Swanstrom will be taking the training in the near future, as the online training is now available
• Update on the open treasurer position: Carol Nelson has completed her training and is ready to assume the role of treasurer. Nelson needs to be added to the township bank accounts. A motion to approve Nelson as treasurer and to be added to the township accounts was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Dressen, motion carried 3-0-0

New Business

• During the July 31, 2021 tree disposal/drop off that was added due to extreme weather, a total of 29 loads were brought in. Many residents stated they will be back for the August tree disposal/drop off.
• Jim Stewart has asked the township for assistance in working with the county on the snow removal near/on his property. Plows have been damaging his property during the snow plowing season by not using the existing turn-around. Kuettel, Dressen and Swanstrom will meet with Stewart on Saturday August 14 at 1 p.m. to look at property. The county will then be contacted to set up a time to meet and discuss a solution.
• Location of the September Township Board meeting will still be held at the firehall. The location will be reassessed 2 weeks prior to September 14, 2021 Township Board meeting. Any changes in location will be made at that time in accordance with Minnesota Association of Townships and the state of Minnesota.

Correspondence
Received

• Emailed July 2021 newsletter from Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT)
• Email from Office of State Auditor – Government Information Division on updated CTAS new account codes
• Email from St Louis County containing the St Louis County broadband newsletter
• Email from Amanda Mitchell, information specialist with the St Louis County Public Works on the county maintenance programs – 2022
• Email from Michelle Claviter-Tveit of the St Louis County Planning and Community Development about the Board of Adjustment hearing information for August 12, 2021
• Email from Jonathan Blevins of St Louis County on the 2021 State Election laws
• Email from Lisa Sweet of the St Louis County Auditor- Elections on initial clerk certification/training
• Email from Brad Gustafson of the St Louis County Government Services Center on housing assistance availability
• Package from Nancy Nilsen of the St Louis County Auditor containing the 2021 Minnesota Election Laws
• Email from Jonathan Blevins of St Louis County on the updates to the Election laws
• Email from Lora Skarman of St Louis County Assessor’s Office with a reminder on the Board of Appeals and Equalization training/update
• Email from St Louis County containing the St Louis County August Broadband newsletter

Sent

• Letter/email to Michelle Clavier-Tveit of the St Louis County Planning and Community Development containing the Township’s stance on the Application for Variance for 8896 West Branch road
• Letter to Don Rigney of the St Louis County Planning and Development with the Township’s motion to approve road access for 9028 West Branch road

Public Comment

There was no public comment

Next Meeting September 14, 2021 at the Pequaywan firehall with the additional option of attending via teleconference. The location will be reassessed 2 weeks prior to September 14, 2021 Township Board meeting. Any changes in location will be made at that time in accordance with Minnesota Association of Townships and the state of Minnesota.

A motion to adjourn the meeting was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried 3-0-0

Kuettel adjourned the meeting at 8:19 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,
Amber Cruz, clerk

 

 

 

 

July 13, 2021 Township Board Meeting Minutes

Meeting was called to order at 7:30 pm. by Charles Kuettel.

Attendance
Town Officers: Supervisor Charles Kettel, supervisor Donald Swanstrom, supervisor Doug Dressen, clerk Amber Cruz, deputy clerk Lita Wallace, treasurer Lynne Scalzo and deputy treasurer Raymond Barnes
Guests: Ted Wallace, Sue Johnson, and Carol Nelson.

Clerk’s Report
Copies of the June board meeting minutes were provided to all who attended. An update to the ‘old business’ section on the West Branch rd portion was made. The following was changed: the original total of $300 was changed to $350. A motion to accept the changes and the corrected minutes was made by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried 3-0-0

Treasurer’s Report
June 2021
Total Funds on hand as of 06/01/2021 (Includes Investments) – $160,462.48
Plus Deposits (June) – $131.29
Interest on Accounts – $131.29
Less Disbursements (June) – $1,544.12
Payroll – $1,436.05
Website Administration – $37.92
Other Expenses – $70.15
Total Funds on hand as of 06/30/2021 – $159,049.65
June Check # 1678 – 1688

July 2021
Claims (July) – $1,229.08
July Check # 1689 – 1697
No transfers to the Checking Account will be needed

Motion to accept the treasurer’s report was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Dressen, motion carried 3-0-0

New Business

• Update on opening for township treasurer position: Carol Nelson is interested in the position and will begin training in the treasurer position. A motion to approve Nelson for training was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Dressen, motion carried 3-0-0
• Road access approval is needed from the Township road supervisor for Sue Johnson’s property, Little Cloquet Cove, located at 9028 West Branch road. The approval is to be on-file with St. Louis County. The clerk is to write a letter of approval granting access to the Little Cloquet Cove. This will then be signed by the Board Chair. Motion to approve the letter was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Dressen, motion carried 3-0-0
• Application for Variance was submitted by Donald King to St Louis County. A Application for Variance meeting is to be held on August 12, 2021 and the County is asking for the township’s comments. The clerk is to write a letter to the county stating that the township approves of the structure. A motion to approve the structure and letter of approval was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Dressen, motion carried 3-0-0
• The American Rescue Plan Act will be looked into further by Kuettel
• Deputy clerk Lita Wallace turned in her laptop, which was in turn given to Carol Nelson for treasurer training.
• A motion to train the clerk Amber Cruz further in CTAS was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Dressen, motion carried 3-0-0

Old Business

• Update on West Branch road: Nick Elmquist will have the repairs completed by winter
• Update on tree/branch disposal: In June a total of 25 loads were disposed of. Richard Arndt has been volunteering to run the disposal. The next disposal date is July 17, 2021 (weather permitting)
• Update on Minnesota Department of Revenue’s demand for missing withholding tax return: it was submitted

Correspondence
Received

• Email from St. Louis County Planning and Community Development on the CDBG citizen advisory committee opening
• Email from Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) about a webinar on requesting American Rescue Plan Act funds
• Email from Judith Strom with information on the tree disposal posted on the Lake Association website
• Email from MAT pertaining to the retirement of the Finance Director
• Email from MAT with important information from Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) on American Rescue Plan Act funds
• Email from MAT containing the June 2021 newsletter
• Email from Sue Johnson regarding the approval of her conditional permit
• Email from Donald Rigney of St. Louis County Planning Commission on the approval of a conditional use permit for 9028 West Branch road
• Email from Sue Johnson requesting approval of road access for 9028 West Branch road to be on-file with St. Louis County
• Email from Pequaywan Township treasurer Lynne Scalzo containing her resignation of township treasurer
• Email from Lora Skarman of St. Louis County Assessor’s Office about upcoming changes to the Board of Appeal and Equalization training
• Invoice of $45.00 from Daisy Wallace for website administration
• Email from Lora Skarman of St. Louis County Assessor’s Office on Minnesota Department of Revenue Board of Appeal and Equalization updated online training for the 2022 appeals season
• Letter from the IRS for address change
• Email from Michelle Claviter-Tveit of St. Louis County Planning and Community Development on a application of variance received by the county
• Invoices from Nick Elmquist in the amounts of $400 and $350 for road repairs

Sent

• Forwarded letter received from St. Louis County Attorney’s Office that was intended for North Star township
• Emal to Sue Johnson pertaining to her conditional use permit approval and the need to attend the July Township Board meeting

Public Comment

There was no public comment

Next Meeting August 10, 2021 at the Pequaywan firehall with the additional option of attending via teleconference

Motion to adjourn was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried 3-0-0

Kuettel adjourned the meeting at 8:12 pm.

Respectfully submitted by,
Amber Cruz, clerk

Meeting was called to order at 7:32 pm. by Charles Kuettel

Attendance
Town Officers: Supervisor Charles Kuettel, supervisor Donald Swanstrom, supervisor Doug Dressen, clerk Amber Cruz, deputy clerk Lita Wallace, treasurer Lynne Scalzo and deputy treasurer Raymond Barnes
Guests: Ted Wallace, Richard Arndt and Maryalice Arndt

Clerk’s Report
Copies of the May board meeting minutes were provided to all who attended. An update to the ‘old business’ section on the Moose Lake easement was made. The following was added: ‘and if township needs to be involved in ownership.’. A motion to accept the changes and the corrected minutes was made by Swanstrom. Dressen seconded the motion, motion carried 3-0-0

Treasurer’s Report
MAY 2021
Total Funds on hand as of 05/01/2021 (Includes Investments) – $162,701.40
Plus: Deposits (May) – $127.71
Interest on Accounts – $127.72
Less: Disbursements (May) – $2,366.63
Payroll – $778.87
2^nd Half Snow Plowing – $1,121.25
Website Administration – $157.50
File Cabinet – 211.21
Other Expenses – $97.80
Total Funds on hand as of 05/31/2021 – $160,517.89
May Check # 1668 – 1677

JUNE 2021
Claims (June) – $1,544.12
June Check # 1678 – 1688
No transfers to the Checking Account will be needed.

Motion to accept treasurer’s report was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Kuettel, motion carried 3-0-0

Old Business

• Update on West Branch road. Nick Elmquist inspected and proposed the township work in two areas first. Gave an estimate of $350 for labor and materials. He will re-evaluate in late August/early September. A motion to accept Nick’s estimate for minor repairs was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Dressen, motion carried 3-0-0. A motion to reimburse Nick for $400 in gravel for burn area was requested by Kuettel. The motion was provided by Swanstrom. Dressen seconded the motion and the motion carried 3-0-0.
• Update on the River road easement. Lita Wallace researched and could not locate any documents or information relating to the River road easement. Kuettel talked to Greg Planting and was informed that Planting has not yet heard from the county. The township and Planting will wait to hear more from the county before any more action is taken.
• Resolution for compensation update. The motion to increase the meeting pay to $50 for each meeting and to keep the rest of the compensation the same was requested by Kuettel. The motion was provided by Dressen and seconded by Swanstrom. Motion carried 3-0-0

 New Business

• Future MAT training available. LBAE training needs to be completed by Swanstrom in June.
• Motion to have Daisy Wallace create an administrator email account for the website was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Dressen. Motion carried 3-0-0
• For file retention, any deeds should be kept permanently in a fireproof storage. A motion to purchase a fireproof envelope for file retention was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Dressen. Motion carried 3-0-0

Correspondence
Received

• Email containing the revised minutes for the 2021 LBAE
• Email from Susan Van Norman from St. Louis County Public Health containing the weekly newsletter as well as the new state and CDC covid guidelines
• Email with the Minnesota Opportunity Collaborative Webinar Series 2021 information
• Email with the monthly newsletter from the Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT)
• Letter from Minnesota Department of Revenue with a demand for missing withholding tax return
• Email from Michelle Claviter-Tveit of the St Louis County Planning and Community Development with a reminder and information on the Planning Commission hearing for June 10, 2021
• Email from the Minnesota Office of State Auditor with a notice of CTAS update
• Email from MAT with an Advocacy Alert
• Email from Cathy Rouleau from St. Louis County Association of Townships (SLCAT) with the access code for the annual meeting on May 26, 2021
• Letter from the SCLAT with information on the May 26, 2021 meeting as well as the 2020 Annual meeting minutes
• Email from Paul McDonald of St Louis County on the county’s new launch of online permitting for septic systems
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace for website administration in the total of $37.92
• Email from Teresa Hirsch of St Louis County Public Works- Maintenance Division with the results of the calcium chloride dust control bid for 2021
• Email from MAT containing information on the American Rescue Plan Act
• Email from Daisy Wallace with a request to add to the agenda
• Letter from the St Louis County Attorney’s Office containing a newsletter
• Letter from MAT containing MAT Official Membership cards for board members

Sent

• Email to SCLAT informing them of the change in clerk address
• Letters of results to residents that submitted appeals for the LBAE meeting
• Letter to MAT requesting 2 more membership cards

Public  Comment

There was no public comment

 Next Meeting July 13, 2021 at the Pequaywan firehall with the additional option of attending via teleconference.

Motion to adjourn was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Dressen, motion carried 3-0-0

Kuettel adjourned the meeting at 8:49 pm.

Respectfully submitted by
Amber Cruz, clerk

Meeting was called to order at 7:36 pm. by Charles Kuettel

Attendance
Town Officers: Supervisor Charles Kuettel, supervisor Don Swanstrom, supervisor Doug Dressen, clerk Amber Cruz, deputy clerk Lita Wallace, treasurer Lynne Scalzo and deputy treasurer Raymond Barnes
Guests: Gregor Planting, Scott Mead, Ron Lake and Judy Strom

Clerk’s Report
Since the meeting was conducted via teleconference, the supervisors read the April 13, 2021 minutes and the Reorganizational meeting minutes from the town webpage. Motion to accept the April minutes was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Kuettel, motion carried 3-0-0. Motion to accept the Reorganizational minutes was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Dressen, motion carried 3-0-0.

Treasurer’s Report
APRIL 2021

Total Funds on hand as of 04/01/2021 (Includes Investments) -$166,048.49
Plus: Deposits (April) – $131.00
Interest on Accounts – $131.00
Less: Disbursements (April) – $3,478.09
Payroll – $1,096.96
Automark Machine – $180.00
Employer’s Federal Tax Form 941 – 1^st Qtr:  $1,806.18
Other Expenses – $394.95
Total Funds on hand as of 04/30/2021 – $162,701.40
April Check # 1652 – 1667

MAY 2021
Claims (May) – $2,366.63
May Check # 1668 – 1677
No transfers to the Checking Account will be needed.

 Old Business

• Update on the West Branch road. Nick Elmquist is inspecting the road over the course of the next few weeks. He is to submit a report and estimate for the June township board meeting.
• It has been requested of residents, Thramer and Planting, to have the county provide proof that the river road is indeed under the township. The township will only get involved upon proof the road is a township road.
• Update for the 66’ easement on Moose Lake road. Supervisors Kuettel and Swanstrom inspected Moose Lake road. It is to be on record, John Wilson has stated that he will pay all expenses and maintenance. He will continue to do so until all the lots have sold. Upon that happening, the expenses and maintenance will transfer to the new landowners. Wilson is still waiting to hear from the county on full clarification and if the township needs to be involved with ownership.
• Resolution for compensation, update. Lynne Scalzo is to look further into comparable townships and their compensation. This will be revisited at the June township board meeting.

New Business

• Tree/Branch disposal for 2021 is to be held from 10 am to 2 pm on June 19, July 17 and August 21 at the township property, weather permitting. The requirements are as follows: the maximum diameter is 10 inches or less, branches must be delimbed/separated from the trunk, and no rotting/decayed wood allowed.
• It is stressed that there is an increased fire danger in the Pequaywan area. It is highly recommended that dead trees and brush be cleared from properties to try and lesson the fire danger. There was a fire in Pequaywan on 5/08/21 that burned 10 acres. This fire had the potential to be much worse.
• The location for future meetings is to be at the Pequaywan firehall. There will be the option of attending via teleconference. For all who attend in person, social distancing guidelines will be followed, and masks will be required at this time.
• There is a St Louis County Planning Commission meeting June 10, 2021 on the application for a conditional use permit for property located at 9038 West Branch Road

Correspondence
Received:

• Email from Katherine Brey from the St Louis County Assessor’s Office containing the 2021 Assessment Book for Pequaywan
• Email from Joell Odell of the St Louis County Assessor’s Office on updates for the Local Board of Appeals and Equalization (LBAE) meeting that was held on May 5, 2021.
• Email from Vaughn Larson about their property’s valuation notice
• Email from the Minnesota Association of Townships – Legislative update and advocacy alert
• Email from Kathy Rouleau of the St Louis County Association of Townships reminding about the meeting held on April 28, 2021.
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace for the total of $157.50 for the township website maintenance
• Invoice from St Louis County Public Works Department for the total of $1121.25 for the AR snowplowing 2020-2021 2^nd half billing
• Minnesota Association of Townships newsletter for April 2021
• Email from Charmin Thramer regarding the vacating of the River Road easement.
• Email from North Shore Title wanting information regarding pending or levied assessments against a property on Pinewood Road.
• Email from Angela Lepak of St Louis County Planning and Community Development regarding an application for a conditional use permit located within Pequaywan Township.
• Email from Joell Odell of the St Louis County Assessor’s Office with the minutes for the LBAE meeting that was held May 5, 2021.
• Email from Charmin Thramer regarding the request to vacate the River Road easement

Sent:

• Email to Joell Odell of the St Louis County Assessor’s Office with the teleconference information for the meeting held May 5, 2021.
• Email to North Shore Title on the request for information on property located on Pinewood Road.
• Email containing the Certification Form for the LBAE meeting that was held on May 5, 2021, to Joe Odell of the St Louis County Assessor’s Office
• Email and phone call to Ron Lake about property located on Pinewood Road.
• Email to John Wilson regarding the request for an easement on Moose Lake Road
• Email to Charmine Thramer regarding the request for vacating an easement on River Road.

Public Comment

• Ron Lake requested permission of the township to extend/create road access to his property off Pinewood road. He was informed that the township has no issue with his plan to extend/create road access.
• Scott Mead, representing the Garden Club, requested township permission to plant a tree and install a plaque on township land, in remembrance of Marylin. Permission was granted under the condition that the plaque be small. Mead will meet with the supervisors to designate a location on the township land.

Next Meeting June 8, 2021 at the Pequaywan firehall with the additional option of attending via teleconference.

Motion to adjourn was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Dressen, motion carried 3-0-0

Kuettel adjourned the meeting at 8:40 pm.

Respectfully submitted by
Amber Cruz, Clerk

 

 

Meeting was called to order at 7:33 p.m. by Charles Kuettel

 Attendance:
Town Officers: Supervisor Charles Kuettel, supervisor Don Swanstrom, clerk Amber Cruz, deputy clerk Lita Wallace, treasurer Lynne Scalzo and deputy treasurer Raymond Barnes.
Guests: John Wilson

 Clerk’s Report
Since the meeting was conducted via teleconference, the supervisors read the March 9, 2021 minutes from the town webpage. Motion to accept the minutes was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Kuettel, motion carried 2-0-0. Board of Canvass minutes were also read from the town webpage. Motion to accept the Board of Canvass minutes was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Kuettel, motion carried 2-0-0.

 Treasurer’s Report
MARCH 2021
Total Funds on hand as of 03/01/2021 (Includes Investments) – $166,038.41
Plus: Deposits – $2,773.68
Forfeited Tax Sale Apportionments – $2,653.90
Interest on Accounts – $119.78
Less: Disbursements (March) – $2,763.60
Payroll – $2,091.22
Officer Life Insurance – $229.00
Other Expenses – $443.38
Total Funds on hand as of 03/31/2021 – $166,048.49
March Check # 1636 – 1651

April 2021
Total Disbursements – $3,478.09
Payroll (April) – $1,096.96
Claims (April) – $2,381.13
April Check # 1652 – 1667
No transfers to the Checking Account will be needed.

 Old Business

• West Branch Road update: There are areas with bad cracking of the road that need to be repaired. Board is requesting that Nick Elmquist inspect the road and submit a bid for the repairs by the May Board meeting. Motion to have Nick Elmquist submit a bid was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Kuettel, motion carried 2-0-0
• Update on the request to vacate part of the River Road easement: The Board is to contact the Minnesota Association of Townships as well as St. Louis County on having a special meeting to vote on the vacating of the easement and to set a resolution. Owners of the property will need to be present. Motion to set-up a special meeting to be held in May provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Kuettel, motion carried 2-0-0
• Minnesota Association of Townships was contacted about record retention for public notices found on the township website. Old public notices can be deleted as there are hard copies of the notices available. All old election training materials have been shredded. A new filing cabinet has been purchased and installed.
• Reminder-Reorganizational meeting to follow Township Board meeting
• Reminder-LBAE (Local Board of Appeal and Equalization) meeting on May 5, 2021, from 3:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.

New Business

• Oath of office conducted 3/20/21 for elected supervisor Charles Kuettel
• The May Township Board meeting will be held via teleconference. Motion to hold the meeting via teleconference was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Kettel, motion carried 2-0-0
• Motion to have the clerk Amber Cruz, create an account on freeconferencecall.com and become the host for all teleconference meetings was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Kuettel, motion carried 2-0-0
• Website update from Daisy Wallace. IT web support, a new Theme for the website had been created and replaced so you will notice a change in the appearance.

Correspondence
Received:

• Email from Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) for Spring Short Course and Registration information
• Email from Local Boards of Appeal & Equalization (LBAE) on the LBAE 2021 Assessment for Taxes Payable 2022
• Email from Susan Van Norman of St Louis County Government on a Covid-19 vaccination eligibility update that those all those 65+ and unpaid essential caregivers, food service, fast food, bar and restaurant workers, and grocery and convenience store workers, postal and mail delivery workers, are now eligible for vaccination.
• Invoice from St Louis County for Automark machine maintenance for $180.00
• Emails from Cathy Rouleau from St Louis County Association of Townships (SLCAT) (1) minutes for the February 24, 2021 meeting; and (2) March 24, 2021 meeting agenda
• Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) March 2021 newsletter
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace for township monthly web maintenance in the amount of $37.50
• Email containing the sales book for the LBAE meeting from Joe Odell, Residential Appraiser for St. Louis County Assessors Department

Sent:

• List of officers emailed to St Louis County Elections, and Minnesota Association of Townships
• Delivered March 2021 town election materials to St. Louis County Elections

Public Comment:

• John Wilson seeks help in getting a 66′ easement from the DNR on the first segment of Moose Lk. Road off Highway 44. Mr. Wilson was requested to get clarification from the state on what role the township is to play, and if a resolution would be efficient. It was also requested of Mr. Wilson to provide a document or letter on what needs to be done for the easement. Supervisors Kuettel and Swanstrom are to do a walk through of the location on April 15, 2021. This is to be readdressed at the May Board meeting.

Next Meeting May 11, 2021, 7:30 p.m. via teleconference

Kuettel adjourned the meeting at 8:27 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by
Amber Cruz, Clerk

 

 

 

Meeting was called to order at 8:32 p.m. by Charles Kuettel

Attendance:
Town Officers: Supervisor Charles Kuettel, supervisor Don Swanstrom, clerk Amber Cruz, deputy clerk Lita Wallace, treasurer Lynne Scalzo, and deputy treasurer Raymond Barnes.
Guests: none in attendance

Discussion of the following resolutions:

• Resolution designating Polling Place for the 2022 election/s as the Pequaywan Firehall at 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road Duluth, MN was approved. The motioned to approve was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Kettel, motion carried 2-0-0
• 2022 Levy in the amount of $55,100.00. Distribution are as follows: General Fund – $18,000.00; Road and Bridges (on-going Maintenance) – $3,600.00; Building and Property Maintenance – $2,00.00; Fire and EMS – $16,500.00; and Road and Bridges (Capital Reserve) – $15,000.00. The motioned to approve was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Kuettel, motion carried 2-0-0
• Resolution appointing Chair as Charles Kuettel and Vice Chair as Don Swanstrom was approved. The motion to approve was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Kuettel, motion carried 2-0-0

Resolutions to be discussed at a later time

• Resolution establishing a Policy for the Compensation and Reimbursement of Town Officers was tabled. Motion to table until the May Board meeting was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Kuettel, motion carried 2-0-0.

Motion to adjourn meeting was provided by Swanstrom and seconded by Kuettel, motion carried 2-0-0. Meeting was adjourned at 9 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by
Amber Cruz, Clerk