Author: peqclerk

Meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. by Vice-Chair Wilson.

Attendance: 

Town officers Present: Vice-Chair Jim Wilson, Chair Douglas Nelson (by phone), Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson (by phone) Deputy treasurer Ray Barnes

Town officers absent:  Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Deputy clerk Shane Stolp

Guests: Dorothy Galinski, Charles Kuettel, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report

Copies of the minutes were distributed to attendees and they were given time to read it. Nelson motion to approve the minutes, Wilson second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay.

Treasurer’s Report

NOVEMBER 2024
Total Funds on Hand 11/1/2024 $272,085.13
Plus: Deposits $3,180.51
–Interest on Accounts 3,060.01
–Road Permit 120.50
Less: Disbursements $1,668.68
–Payroll 1,209.26
–Other Expenses 459.42

Total Funds on Hand 11/30/2024 $273,596.96
Checks Written 2088-2095

DECEMBER 2024
Expected Receipts Apportionment $23,436.44
YE Adjustment 203.76
Checks Written 2096-2115 $16,086.89
No transfer to checking needed

Nelaon motion to approve the Treasurer’s Report, second by Wilson, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay.

Carol Nelson reported that she and Barnes finally were able to determine with the help of the State Auditor’s Office on how to correct the data entry of the Social Security tax deducted from the election judges’ salaries. This will enable the township to issue correct W-2 income to the judges. In addition, they will receive a refund for the Social Security tax deducted from their income. The township will receive refund from the Social Security office that was paid for the employee and township portion. The treasurer will submit an Amended Form 941 for this effect.

Old Business

• FYI: Nothing to report on West Branch Road
• FYI: On December 7th, Pequaywan Lake Area Fire Department had all their rigs burning the community pile at Rossini Road. The township thanks the Fire Department.
• FYI: waiting for a response from Township Association lawyer for help with the idea on road limit violations.
• Update on installing Microsoft Office for the two new laptops: Since C. Nelson prefer to have the installation done this month, Wallace asked approval from the board to have Daisy, our webmaster, do the installation. Nelson motion to approve, Wilson second. Wilson yay, Nelson yay.
• Invasive Species RFP grant (Bonnie Dressen) – Bonnie is not present at the meeting, this is scheduled next month.
• Proposed 2025 budget plans for Pequaywan Fire Department – Fire Chief Tom Getchell was not able to attend the meeting so is re-scheduled next month.

New Business

• Candidacy Filing for supervisor position open for voting at March Town Election: Wallace reported that there is one open Supervisor position for the March Town Election. Supervisor Douglas Dressen’s term ends in March 2025.The Affidavit for Candidacy form is available by:
  (1) contacting clerk Wallace at peqclerk@gmail.com; or
  (2) access and print the form from https://www.sos.state.mn.us/media/1027/affidavit-of-candidacy.pdf

The Affidavit of Candidacy form must be submitted to the clerk between December 31, 2024 and by 5:00 p.m. on January 14, 2025. There is a new requirement for candidates to show proof of residence in the district in which they are filing for office,

Correspondence

Received:

• Email from St. Louis County Elections re-instructions and information on March Town Elections
•  Workers’ Compensation invoice from January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025 ($276.00) and Workers’ Compensation Audit information from MATIT Insurance
• Email from St. Louis County Assessor’s Office that the Local Board of Appeal Equalization (LBAE) /Training by the Department of Revenue is now available online
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace for November web maintenance in the amount of $25.00

Sent: 

• Re-sent updated list of town officers to St. Louis  County Elections
• Sent Public Notice of Town Election 2025 timeline to St. Louis County Elections

Public Comment: The Public Comment section is a courtesy extended to persons wishing to address the Board. If you wish to comment during the Township Meeting, follow the protocol below. One public comment per citizen which is limited to two minutes. Submit request by the first Saturday of the month to peqclerk@gmail.com with your full name and comment information. The board can either address the issue, assign someone to address the issue, or do nothing.

Public Comment Request:

Next Meeting:  January 14, 2025, 7:00 p.m., Pequaywan Fire Hall

Meeting was motion to adjourn at 7:20 p.m. by Nelson, Wilson second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay.

Respectfully submitted by
Lita Wallace, Clerk

Meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chair Nelson.

 Attendance:  

Town officers: Chair Douglas Nelson, Vice-Chair James Wilson, Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson, Deputy Treasurer Ray Barnes

Absent: Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp

Guests: Bonnie Dressen, Stephanie Jones, Stephen Jones, Deb Pomroy, Daryle Waldriff, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report

Copies of the minutes were distributed to attendees and they were given time to read it. Dressen motion to approve the minutes, Wilson second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Dressen, yay, Wilson yay.

Treasurer’s Report

OCTOBER 2024
Total Funds on Hand 10/1/2024 $276,228.12
Plus: Deposits $406.55
–Interest on Accounts 406.55
Less: Disbursements $4,549.54
–Payroll 1,268.45
–Other Expenses 931.17
–Payroll 941 Report 1,113.67
–St. Louis County 2024-2025- 1/2 Snow Plowing 1,236.25
Total Funds on Hand 10/31/2024 $272,085.13
Checks Written 2073-2087

NOVEMBER 2024
Expected Receipts NONE
Checks Written 2088-2095 $1,663.68
No transfer to checking needed

Treasurer Nelson proposed opening two (2) CD’s at $50,000 each with the National Bank of Commerce. Nelson reported that she will be closing the CD’s with Superior Choice Credit Union.

Dressen motion to approve the Treasurer’s Report, second by Wilson, motion carried. Nelson yay, Dressen, yay, Wilson yay.

Old Business

• Update on West Branch Road by Chair Nelson: On October 30th, we received notice from St. Louis County that our application for snow removal on the West Branch Road had been approved. This was a welcome notice after all the work that had been done removing trees, trimming edges and removing everything overhanging the road. I did a second ride along with Kelly Gronsorowski from St. Louis County and he said we did a really good job. Thanks goes to Jim Wilson, Brian Von Arb, Chris Sands, Jeff Somrock and Jim Hacking. We learned a lot from this project and will be able to do a more efficient job when we are required to do it next time. The residents along the West Branch Road stopped to talk to use and thank us for what we were doing. I received no complaint about cutting the trees that were a problem for the plow.

Kelly reminded me of the area that needs to be patched next year before he signs off on the plowing contract again. I am working with Kevin Smalley with Sinnot Blacktop to set up a game plan for next spring to do the repairs and possibly seal coat the patches that have been done in the past to extend their useful life. We are going to set up a meeting for next week and as soon as I have that information, I will advise everyone.

While working the ditches along the West Brand Road, I discovered a second culvert in a different location than the two main culverts. I have no history on this culvert as to when it was installed.

The Subordinate Service District has been on the back burner with most of our time being devoted to road maintenance. I will begin working on this again very soon.

• Status of Invasive Species grant money by Bonnie Dressen – RFP due at 4:30 p.m. on November 22, 2024 – Bonnie has been working on it and will submit an RFP on the deadline date.
• Update on election process and open hours for voting: Wallace reported that there were a total of 95 in person voting and 29 absentee voting. Forty five voters voted between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. almost half of the voters who voted in person. Due to this, the board decided that they are not going to propose any changes on the start time of voting for all state and federal elections which will remain at 7:00 a.m.
• Purchase of a tarp for covering burn pile. 20 X 20 medium duty at Northern Tool costs $29.99 (20 x 30 HD costs 89.99): For this purpose, an agreement between Daryle Waldriff and the board to purchase a 20’x100′ tarp from Waldriff for $125.00.
• Setting a fine for violation of load limits tabled from last month: D. Nelson said that he contacted the MAT attorney Steve Fenske, General Counsel for advise on this matter but have not hear back as of yet. Again, I will keep you updated as I receive information. Looking to implement this in spring.
• Laptop estimate costs – Barnes proposed buying two HP laptop for $630.00 each which will be for the clerk and treasurer. The laptops now in possession of the clerk and treasurer will be transferred to the deputies. The board requested for Wallace to contact John Wall to help install Microsoft Office.  Dressen motion to approve purchase of two laptops for $630.00 each, second by Wilson, motion carried. Nelson yay, Dressen, yay, Wilson yay.

 

• FYI: 2024-2025 Snow plowing contract of West Branch Road with St. Louis County was approved after the supervisors with community help cleared the trees and brush along the road as required by the county
• CTAS/Social Security Tax: in the past elections, Social Security were taken from election judges’ salary. C. Nelson and Barnes are working with the State’s CTAS folks on how to correct it in CTAS.
• Discussion on distance of the easement: (Action) – Wilson will locate his deed to check what is says about easement.
• Signs will be posted in the township that says:

“Pequaywan Lakes Area Association
Wake Boats are Prohibited on Pequaywan Lake
Thank you”

New Business

• Minnesota Association of Townships is inviting officers to join them for “Township Day at the Capitol” on January 27, 2025. They will pay registration fee.

Correspondence

Received:

• Various election information materials from St. Louis County including Absentee Ballot voter names, rosters and other items needed for the General Election on November 5.
• Email from St. Louis County re-new proposed ordinance which prohibits the operation of cannabis businesses.
• Invitation to participate on the Township Day at the Capitol.

Sent:None

Public Comment: The Public Comment section is a courtesy extended to persons wishing to address the Board. If you wish to comment during the Township Meeting, follow the protocol below. One public comment per citizen which is limited to two minutes. Submit request by the first Saturday of the month to peqclerk@gmail.com with your full name and comment information. The board can either address the issue, assign someone to address the issue, or do nothing.

Public Comment Request: None

Next Meeting, December 10, 7:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall

Meeting was motion to adjourn at 7:50 p.m. by Dressen, Wilson second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Dressen, yay, Wilson yay.

Respectfully submitted by
Lita Wallace, Clerk

Meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chair Nelson.

Attendance:

Town officers: Chair Douglas Nelson, Vice-Chair James Wilson, Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson, Deputy Treasurer Ray Barnes

Guests: Bonnie Dressen, Charles Kuettel, Deb Pomroy, Daryle Waldriff, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report: Copies of the minutes were distributed to attendees and they were given time to read it. Dressen motion to approve the minutes, Wilson second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Dressen, yay, Wilson yay.

Treasurer’s Report

SEPTEMBER 2024
Total Funds on Hand 9/1/2024 $278,559.14
Plus: Deposits $418.23
–Interest on Accounts 418.23
Less: Disbursements $2,749.25
–Payroll 2,093.42
–Other Expenses 220.83
–Hanft Fride 435.00
Total Funds on Hand 9/30/2024 $276,228.12
Checks Written 2055-2072
Void check 2053 – paper jam

OCTOBER 2024
Expected Receipts NONE
Checks Written 2073-2086 $3,313.29
No transfer to checking needed

Treasurer Nelson requested to have a blank check signed by officers for snow plowing as it might be due before the November meeting.

Dressen motion to approve the Treasurer’s Report and the request to sign a blank check, Wilson second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Dressen, yay, Wilson yay.

Old Business

• Update on West Branch Road cleaning for St. Louis County Snow Plow contract for 2024-2025 by Chair Nelson: “I did a ride along with St. Louis County Road Supervisor Kelley Gronsorowski on the West Branch Road to survey the work that has been done to renew our plowing contract. He informed me it was not sufficient and pointed out where more work was needed before he would give his OK. They want all the small trees, overhanging trees and anything that might interfere with the snow plow. He wants a 25′ wide corridor with nothing leaning or growing in that zone. I want to thank especially Jim Wilson for his dedication to getting this work done. At one point, he was on the road cutting trees and brush for eight straight days. As he would say not full eight hour days but several hours each time. Neighbors along the West Branch Road came out to help including Chris Sands, Jim Hacking and Brian VonArb. We greatly appreciate their help as this is a very large project to satisfy the county. Supervisor Doug Dressen got estimates to have private contractors do the work as follows: Rick’s Tree and Stump at $22,548.75; and Duluth Tree Service at $39,430.00. John Wilson sent a crew he has worked with called Treety Outdoor Services and they gave us a bid of $9,000.00. None of these were in the budget we set last meeting which was $4,000.00 so we elected to do it ourselves at a huge savings for the township. Kelley Gronsorowski also pointed out a bad spot in the blacktop that will be a problem for the plow but said he will put it on next year’s list of repairs needed before contract signing. He said he would like the work completed by October 15 and then reinspect. So the work goes on!”
• Invasive species grant money: St. Louis County is soliciting proposals to prevent the introduction or limit the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) in St. Louis County. St. Louis County is the recipient of $707,992.00 grant aid funds for AIS prevention. Applications are due by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, November 22, 2024. Bonnie Dressen volunteered to research if Pequaywan Lakes qualify.
• Results of tree disposal from Saturday, October 5th report from Chair Nelson: “We had our second tree disposal site on October 5. Much smaller numbers than in the spring but we still had 11 loads of trees and brush delivered to the site. I want to thank the people who came and helped. Chuck Kuettel, Jim Wilson and Steven Jones who brought homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies made by his wife. Mark Freeman from the fire department has been discussing how and when to burn for us. He said this was a very valuable service provided by the township as it reduces fire materials from our home and accidentally starting a fire out of control. There was a discussion about putting a large tarp over some of the pile to keep off the snow so it would be easier to ignite and burn. The last attempts at burning the pile was unsuccessful as the wood was too wet and would not ignite. I will price out a tarp.”

A resident mentioned that he has some huge tarps he can sell to the township. The supervisors will check it out.

• Vehicle axle weight limit of 7-ton axle: There is a sign at the entrance to Pequaywan Township at West Branch Road regarding this restriction. An overweight permit can be requested for a fee. A question and discussion arises as what to do if an individual is caught without a permit. A suggestion to contact the town lawyer and table the issue for next meeting to determine how to enforce it.
• Wake boats: Dressen motion to support that the township put up a sign stating “Wake boats are prohibited in Pequaywan Township” as recommended by DNR (Department of Natural Resources. Some residents  volunteered to donate signs. Second by Wilson, motion carried. Nelson yay, Dressen, yay, Wilson yay.

New Business

• • 2024 General Election Information (Absentee voting, election date, polling place, time, election judges, Public Accuracy Test) – Wallace reported the following: (1) Absentee Voting information has been posted on posting places. (2) General Election is scheduled on Tuesday, November 5, 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Pequaywan Firehall. (3) Election judges are Shane Stolp, Bonnie Dressen and Jane Strom. (4) Public Accuracy Test will be scheduled after the ballots are picked up from the county when available for pick-up. To answer a question whether a township can start later than 7:00 a.m. The answer is yes, if the township has less than 500 voters and election can start no later than 10:00 a.m. It must be approved by the voters during the  March Annual Meeting. Wallace mentioned that she researched the time voted during the last few years from 2006 to 2024, the voters approved a start of 7:00 a.m. Nelson instructed Wallace to add the topic for discussion in next year’s March Annual Town meeting.
• Acquisition of two new laptops for the clerk and treasurer. Also Adobe Acrobat software for the use of the clerk. If a purchase is made, the current laptops used by the clerk and treasurer will go to the deputy clerk and deputy treasurer. The laptops used by the deputies were purchased in 2015 and the ones used by the clerk and treasurer were purchased in 2017 or 2018.

Correspondence

Received:

• Invoice from Daisy Wallace, web administrator, in the amount of $25.00 for the month of September
• Invoice from Deborah Pomroy, Noxious Weed Surveyor, in the amount of $480.00 and $32.23 for mileage during the period of July 12 to July 27, 2024
• Various emails from St. Louis County Elections re-General Election information and pick-up of election ballots and other materials
• Email from St. Louis County Planning and Zoning that RFP (grant) for Aquatic Invasive Species is now open
• Email from St. Louis County Auditor’s Office confirming receipt of the 2025 Levy Form

Sent: None

Public Comment: The Public Comment section is a courtesy extended to persons wishing to address the Board. If you wish to comment during the Township Meeting, follow the protocol below. One public comment per citizen which is limited to two minutes. Submit request by the first Saturday of the month to peqclerk@gmail.com with your full name and comment information. The board can either address the issue, assign someone to address the issue, or do nothing.

Public Comment Request: Lake Loss Directory. This request was declined as it is a Pequaywan Lake Association business and not township business.

Nelson motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:50 p.m., Dressen second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Dressen, yay, Wilson yay.

Next Meeting, November 12, 2024, 7:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Clerk

Meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chair Nelson

Attendance:

Town officers: Chair Douglas Nelson, Vice-Chair James Wilson, Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson, Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp, Deputy Treasurer Ray Barnes

Guests: Bonnie Dressen, Dorothy Galinski, Stephanie Jones, Stephen Jones, Charles Kuettel, Deb Pomroy, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report: Copies of the minutes were distributed to attendees and they were given time to read it. Dressen motion to approve the minutes, Wilson second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Dressen, yay, Wilson yay.

Treasurer’s Report

AUGUST 2024
Total Funds on Hand 8/1/2024 $270,992.50
Plus: Deposits $10,266.25
–Interest on Accounts 416.90
–DNR – payment in lieu of taxes 5,757.35
–Taconite Production 4,092.00
Less: Disbursements $2,699.61
–Payroll 310.66
–Other Expenses 379.95
–MATIT 1,009.00
–Hanft Fride 1,000.00
Total Funds on Hand 8/31/2024 $278,559.14
Checks Written 2042-2054
Void check 2053 – paper jam

SEPTEMBER 2024
Expected Receipts NONE
Checks Written 2055-2072 $2,749.25

Dressen motion to approve the treasurer’s report, Wilson second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Dressen, yay, Wilson yay.

Old Business

• Chair Nelson update on West Branch Road (Pequaywan Township Road #2412): Slowly making progress on the Subordinate Services District. I have created a database with every property owner along the township portion of West Branch Road, a total of 66 names with 80% seasonal cabins (53) and 20% residents (13). I am working on a letter survey to explain what we want to do and get their input. I will keep you posted on the survey results.
• Snow plowing contract report by Chair Nelson: Our application for renewal of the West Branch Road plowing contract has been returned back to us labeled rejected: “Following improvements needed to be made before they will approve the application.” County plow supervisor wants a 25′ wide corridor with all overhanging trees trimmed or removed. That’s the width of the pavement plus a 2 foot shoulder. I have been working with Kelly Gronsorowski from St. Louis County as he is the supervisor for the West Branch Road. He is asking that we have the work completed no later than October 15th and contact them for reinspection. There are several people who have said they would help but it will be a major task. The plow truck itself is 12′ high and they want any branches cut off that if covered with snow could hit the truck. This entails riding in the back of a pickup truck with a pole saw. Kelley explained they experienced broken hazard lights and antennas. The lights cost over $500.00 each and $100.00 for antenna plus labor to install. I want to explore hiring this out, maybe anyone who has done this for the township in the past. I request we set a budget not to exceed $4,000.00. We need approval now as the work needs to be done ASAP and we can’t wait until the next meeting to agree to the funding. There is money in the West Branch Maintenance Fund that can be used.

Nelson motion to approve $4,000.00 for the contract to trim the trees as required by St. Louis County, Dressen second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Dressen, yay, Wilson yay.

A few folks have given contact information on companies that can do the project.

• Wake boat update: Talked with DNR. Suggested to post sign on the road and something for the Pequaywan Lake Association to do. The township cannot make a law or enforce it until the county make the law. All that the township can do is support the Association with a petition letter. The petition letter will go to Commissioner Nelson, then DNR, then the State Legislature. Before a petition letter can be created, the board needs a petition letter from the Association.
• Hiking trail update: Dressen reported that he cleaned up the area around the Boy Scout picnic table.
• Fall burn pile drop off will be on October 5, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Location is on the township property in the corner of Rossini Road and Pequaywan Lake Road. Requirements are: (1) maximum diameter must be 10 inches; and (2) branches must be de-limbed or separated from the trunk.
• Weed report: Deb Pomroy reported that she finished surveying West Branch Road and six hours of weed survey in the hiking trail. She plans to do the northeast corner of the township next. Noxious weeds found in the township were: Spotted Knapweed, Common Tansy, Japanese Barberry, Siberian Peashrub, Common Buckthorn, and Bush Honeysuckle.

New Business

• Brush on the side of the road: There was discussion on clearing the brush on the side of the township road. Equipment rental is $100.00-$180.00. No action taken.

Correspondence

Received:

• Email from St. Louis County Assessor’s Office re-list of LBAE certified supervisors
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace, Web Admin, in the amount of $25.00

Sent:

• 2025 Levy form emailed to St. Louis County Auditor’s Office

Public Comment: The Public Comment section is a courtesy extended to persons wishing to address the Board. If you wish to comment during the Township Meeting, follow the protocol below. One public comment per citizen which is limited to two minutes. Submit request by the first Saturday of the month to peqclerk@gmail.com with your full name and comment information. The board can either address the issue, assign someone to address the issue, or do nothing.

Public Comment Request: Lake directory loss

Next Meeting, October 8, 2024, 7:00 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Clerk

Meeting was called to order at 8:30 p.m. by Chair Nelson.

Attendance:
Town officers: Chair Douglas Nelson , Vice-Chair James Wilson, Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson, Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp
Town officer absent: Deputy treasurer Raymond Barnes
Guests: Bonnie Dressen, Dorothy Galinski, Stephanie Jones, Stephen Jones, Marcia Sands, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report

Copies of the July 9, 2024 minutes were distributed to attendees and they were given time to read it. Dressen motion to approve the minutes with correction, second by Wilson, motion carried. Wilson yay, Dressen yay, Nelson yay.

Treasurer’s Report

JULY 2024
Total Funds on Hand 7/1/2024 $238,380.53
Plus: Deposits $37,672.88
–Interest on Accounts 402.22
–First Half – Tax Apportionment 35,937.76
–State of MN – PNP Reimbursement 597.90
–State of Mn – Town Aid 735.00
Less: Disbursements $5,060.91
–Payroll 509.92
–US Treasury – 941 taxes 1,543.08
–Fire & EMS 2,500.00
–Other Expenses 507.91
Total Funds on Hand 7/31/2024 $270,992.50
2030-2039 Checks Written

AUGUST 2024
Expected Receipts $5,757.35
MN DNR- payment in lieu of taxes ?
St Louis Cty – Taconite
Void checks 2040-2042 $2,699.61
Checks Writte 2043-2054
No transfer to checking needed

Wilson motion to approve, Nelson second, motion carried. Wilson yay, Dressen yay, Nelson yay.

Old Business
• West Branch Road Update by Chair Nelson.

“A recap of my conversation with Rashma Brewer, Engineer for State of Minnesota in-charge of LRIP (Local Road Improvement Program) grant programs. We scored in the middle of all the applications:
(1) We were strong in noting Safety Issues Now.
(2) Maps.
(3) Pictures.
(4) Letters of support.

Scored low:
(1) Not detailing future maintenance and matching funds available.
(2) Need ability to maintain and operate road in the future.
(3) Need greater community benefits.
(4 Compelling narrative – tourist destination, etc.
(5) Higher traffic counts.
(6) Not project ready.
(7) Right of way acquisition in advance not done.
(8) Joint with county.
(9) Seasonal usage like winter snowmobile trails.
(10) Logging operations using road for access.
(11) Access to state land for ATV’s, etc.

Status of (Subordinate Service District):
(1) Create list of all current landowners along the township West Branch Road.
(2) Send questionnaire to all owner’s requesting their help attendance at a special meeting to discuss details and share ideas.
(3) Create Citizen Task force to work on details.
(4) Secure required 50% approval of all landowners and create signed petition for township clerk to review.
(5) Consult with engineers to determine scope of work to make sure we properly spend money wisely.
(6) Interview several black top companies to get their input.
(7) Determine length of time and amount of annual assessment to budget for the needed replacement.
(8) Work with County Auditor to determine each new levy based on current property values.
(9) Present proposal to Pequaywan Board of Supervisors for their approval.
(10) Present final approval to County Auditor for implementation.”

• Wake boat – a resident presented information about the damages of having a Wake Boat in Pequaywan Lakes with the Pequaywan Lake Association requesting the board to implement to stop the use of Wake Boats in Pequaywan Lakes. There was discussion and was tabled.

• State Primary Election on August 13, 2024: 32 residents voted out of 143. Chair Nelson congratulated the election officials for their hard work and long Marathon Day. A total of 15 hours worked.

New Business
• Shane Stolp as new Head Election Judge – Nelson motion to approve Shane Stolp as the new Head Election Judge, Wilson second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Dressen yay.
• St. Louis County reclassification of Tax Forfeited Land – Dressen motion to approve, Wilson second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Dressen yay.
• Dressen motion to approve for the clerk to renew the online snow plowing contract with St. Louis County, Wilson second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Dressen yay.
• Notice from Pequaywan Firehall re-filing cabinets – Wallace reported that the Pequaywan Firehall requested to dispose of the township filing cabinet that is no longer needed as they need space in the Firehall for upcoming training in October attended by other fire departments. Wallace also reported that Supervisor Wilson took out the filing cabinet for disposal.
• Public Comment request: Chair Nelson’s response: “For Public Comment Protocol, we have established procedure of one comment per citizen of about two minutes at the end of the meeting. Notify the clerk (Lita Wallace, peqclerk@gmail.com) in advance of your desire to speak and specify the topic. As noted at the Public Comment section of the Agenda, Bonnie Dressen has requested that attendees be allowed to speak on each item in the agenda. The answer is NO. We will continue to operate under the current rules voted by the supervisors. That being said, there will be exceptions to the rule when the supervisors decide and agree they would like more information from the citizens on a particular issue. A case in point would be a discussion on the Wake Boat Surfing issue. When we get to that issue I will invite you to comment.”

Correspondence

Received:
• Email from Minnesota Department of Revenue stating the 2025 amounts for Town Aid
• MAT District 10 Meeting scheduled on August 29, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. in Grand Lake Town Hall 5287 Highway 53, Saginaw MN
• Email from St. Louis County Public Works stating that the online snow plowing contract is ready for renewal

Sent:
• Submitted Final Town 2025 Levy to St. Louis County in the amount of $60,000.00

Public Comment: The Public Comment section is a courtesy extended to persons wishing to address the Board. If you wish to comment during the Township Meeting, follow the protocol below. One public comment per citizen which is limited to two minutes. Submit request by the first Saturday of the month to peqclerk@gmail.com with your full name and comment information. The board can either address the issue, assign someone to address the issue, or do nothing.

Public Comment Request: Bonnie Dressen requesting that attendees be allowed to speak as each item is addressed on the agenda.

Next Meeting, September 10, 2024, 7:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall

Dressen motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:20 p.m., Wilson second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Dressen yay.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Clerk

Meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Vice-Chair James Wilson.

Attendance:
Town officers – Vice-Chair James Wilson, Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Clerk Lita Wallace, Deputy Treasurer Raymond Barnes
Town officers by phone – Chair Douglas Nelson and Treasurer Carol Nelson
Absent: Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp
Guests: Bonnie Dressen, Charles Kuettel, Kristin Larsen, Deb Pomroy, Jim Stewart, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report

Copies of the June 11, 2024 minutes were distributed to attendees and they were given time to read it. Dressen motion to approve the minutes, second by Wilson, motion carried. Wilson yay, Dressen yay, Nelson yay.

Treasurer’s Report

JUNE 2024
Total Funds on Hand 6/1/2024 $239,421.10
Plus: Deposits $413.79
-Interest on Accounts 413.79
-Misc Items
Less: Disbursements $1,454.36
-Payroll 1,310.56
-Other Expenses 143.90
Total Funds on Hand 6/30/2024 $238,380.53
Checks Written 2019-2029

JULY 2024
Expected Receipts
SLC – First Half Taxes $35,937.76 MN –
PNP reimbursement $597.90 Checks Written 2030-2039 $5,060.91
No transfer to checking needed

Dressen motion to approve the Treasurer’s Report, second by Wilson, motion carried. Wilson yay, Dressen yay, Nelson yay.

Old Business

• Update on West Branch Road by Nelson – culvert was flooded but did not go up to the road. There is another opportunity to apply for funding in 2025. In 2024, 119 applied and 18 were granted. Requirement is 1000 amount of traffic.

New Business

• Discuss banning wake boats – Wake boats plow the water and leave a wave big enough for people to surf. It ruins the beach line. Further discussion is tabled for next month
• For information – St. Louis County Licensing Committee recommendation on registration and operation of cannabis business.
• Weed Inspector Update – Deb Pomroy will start conducting the inspection soon. She is available to conduct inspection in Pequaywan residents property if they need help identifying weeds in their property without charge.
• Election changes/Revised Resolution for Election Judges – Wallace reported new election changes. There are now only two major political parties, Republican and Democrats. Starting August election, clerks are no longer allowed to serve as Head Election Judge or election judge.
• Introduce new Head Election Judge – Head Election Judge is Deb Pomroy and new Election Judge hired is Jane Strom.
• Change time of August Board meeting from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. due to election which runs until 8:00 p.m.
• Mark your calendar for election dates, Pequaywan Firehall, 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  August 13, 2024 – State Primary Election
  November 5, 2024 – General Election
• Clerk Wallace and Deputy Clerk Stolp completed the 5-hoour Clerk Training for State Primary Election conducted by St. Louis County Elections
• St Louis County Licensing Committee voted unanimously that the St. Louis County Board enact a county-wide moratorium prohibiting legislation and operation of cannabis business through December 31, 2024.

Correspondence

Received:

• Invoice from Minnesota Association of Townships Insurance and Bond Trust in the amount of $1,009.00 for Inland Marine Policy for coverage of equipment, computers, OmniBallot etc
• Invoice from Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) for $30 in the purchase of two extra Town Government Manual for supervisors.
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace in the amount of $150 for services during the month of June (Web administration and Google group email special project).
• Letter from St Louis County Licensing Committee that they voted unanimously that the St. Louis County Board enact a county-wide moratorium prohibiting legislation and operation of cannabis business through Deember 31, 2024.
• Various emails from St. Louis County Elections re-Head Election Judge training and information and instructions about the August and November elections.
• Email from St. Louis County, MN Sheriff’s Office requesting report of damage to public infrastructure due to the storm in June 2024.

Sent: None

Public Comment: The Public Comment section is a courtesy extended to persons wishing to address the Board. If you wish to comment during the Township Meeting, follow the protocol below. One public comment per citizen which is limited to two minutes. Submit request by the first Saturday of the month to peqclerk@gmail.com with your full name and comment information. The board can either address the issue, assign someone to address the issue, or do nothing.

NONE

Next Meeting: August 13, 2024, 8:3 0 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Clerk

The meeting was called to order by Chair Douglas Nelson at 7:00 p.m.

Town officers present: Chair Douglas Nelson, Vice-Chair James Wilson, Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson, Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp, Deputy Treasurer Ray Barnes

Guests present: Bonnie Dressen, Dorothy Galinski, Stephen Jones, Charles Kuettel, Elizabeth Larsen, Steve Mueller, Mark Munger, Sarah Parker, Deb Pomroy, Kathy Sykes,  Tom Sykes, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report: Copies of the May 14, 2024 minutes were distributed to attendees and they were given time to read it. Nelson motion to approve the minutes with changes (remove garbage truck and repalce with emergency vehicles, and change 100 to 150 miles), second by Wilson, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Dressen yay.

Treasurer’s Report

MAY 2024
Total Funds on Hand 5/1/2024 $241,094.72
Plus: Deposits $405.68
-Interest on Accounts 405.68
-Misc Items
Less: Disbursements $2,079.30
-Payroll 936.14
-Other Expenses 768.16
-MAT – Spring Training 375.00
Total Funds on Hand 5/31/2024 $239,421.10
Checks Written 2003a-2018

JUNE 2024
Expected Receipts
None Expected
Checks Written 2019-2029 $1,454.36
No transfer to checking needed

Nelson reported that (1) the first half of the levy will come in June or July; (2) funds have been moved from Superior Choice Credit Union to National Bank of Commerce.except CD’s; (3) $10,000.00 has been paid to the Fire Department; (4) recommending to buy more CD’s of at least $25,000.00 for 5 or 10 months with interest of 5%. Dressen motioned to approve up to $30,000.00 CD, second by Wilson, motion carried, Dressen yay, Wilson yay, Nelson yay.

Old Business

• Update on West Branch Road from Chair Nelson – My phone conversation with Rashmi Brewer was re-scheduled to June 24th to discuss the LRIP grant application and how to proceed with future grant applications. I spoke with Steve Krasaway, the St. Louis County Engineer. The repaving of the Normanna Road is now scheduled for 2026. They did not receive the LRIP Grant that they applied for. We can piggyback on their contract and have the West Branch Road repaved at a significant savings using their contractor to do both projects at the same time. We will have to notify them in 2025 so we are included in the bid process. We will need to have any engineering and scope of work done in advance so we have a clear idea or what we are doing. I have also talked with Township Attorney Scott Witty asking for an update on work setting up the Subordinate Service District. They have completed their research and feel it would be a good plan for us to proceed with this Service District. They have prepared a checklist for us to follow, and I should receive this within a week’s time. Next step after that, they will be preparing the forms and notices required by law. Our first step will be to secure the required signatures on the petition to create the Special District. So we should be moving forward with a sense of urgency to get our first levy included for the next tax year.
• Results of June 1^stdrop-off  of tree yard waste at Township site – the drop-off went smoothly, special thanks to Charles Kuettel for his assistance.
• Township trail maintenance – Dressen proposed to mow the trail in the amount of $50.00 every time he mows, will mow as needed about five to six times a year. Motion by Wilson to approve, second by Nelson, motion passed. Wilson yay, Nelson yay. Wallace will prepare the Resolution for Conflict of interest.

In the past, the Pequaywan Lakes Association members were the ones who had been working on the trail but most of them already left the area. Dressen had been voluntarily mowing the trail in the past years.

• Status of new file cabinet and lock system for existing cabinets – the new cabinet has been delivered to the firehall. Suggested to add a bar to the older filing cabinets.
• Update on group email – Daisy Wallace, web admin, had created the group email for the Contact form on the town website and Lita will show the officers how it works
• Update on Presidential Nomination Primary Reimbursement – some of the amounts submitted did not qualify for reimbursement. The new amount is $597.90.
• FYI – The township’s OmniBallot and election printer has been serviced for maintenance by the county without charge

New Business

• Introduction of Mark Munger candidate for Minnesota House seat 3B running against Natalie Zeleznikar – Mark Munger is retired abd talked about the different positions he held in office in the Duluth and surrounding community.

Correspondence

Received:

• Invoice from Web Administrator Daisy Wallace for May in the amount of $75.00.
• Minnesota Secretary of State audited the Presidential Nomination Primary Reimbursement submitted last month and determined that some of the expenses were not eligible for reimbursement.

Sent: N/A

Public Comment: The Public Comment section is a courtesy extended to persons wishing to address the Board. If you wish to comment during the Township Meeting, follow the protocol below: One public comment per citizen which is limited to two minutes. Submit request by the first Saturday of the month to peqclerk@gmail.com with your full name and comment information. The board can either address the issue, assign someone to address the issue, or do nothing.

Next Meeting, July 9, 2024, 7:00 p.m.

Nelson motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:50 p.m. second by Wilson, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Dressen yay.

Respectfully submitted by:
Lita Wallace, Clerk

 

The meeting was called to order by Chair Douglas Nelson at 7:00 p.m.

Town officers present: Chair Douglas Nelson, Vice-Chair James Wilson, Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Clerk Lita Wallace, and Treasurer Carol Nelson

Town officers absent: Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp, Deputy Treasurer Raymond Barnes

Guests present: Bonnie Dressen, Dorothy Galinski, Lori Gherna, Charles Kuetttel, Deb Pomroy, Carmi Von Arb, Brom Von Arb, Daryle Waldriff, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report: Copies of the April 9, 2024 minutes were distributed to attendees and they were given time to read it. Dressen motion to approve the minutes, second by Wilson, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Dressen yay.

Treasurer’s Report

APRIL 2024
Total Funds on Hand 4/1/2024 $245,424.95
Plus: Deposits $410.12
-Interest on Accounts 410.12
-Misc Items
Less: Disbursements $4,740.35
-Payroll 1,508.94
-Other Expenses 614.41
-Plowing 1,177.60
-941 Federal Taxes 1,439.40
Total Funds on Hand 4/30/2024 $241,094.72
Checks Written 1988-2011

MAY 2024
Expected Receipts
None Expected

Checks Written 2003a – 2017 $2,079.30
No transfer to checking needed

C. Nelson reported that most of the funds from Superior Credit Union will be moved to National Bank of Commerce when CD’s mature. NBC offers CD for 10 months at 5% interest.

Old Business

• Update on West Branch Road report from Chair Nelson: I walked the full length of the township road and found it to be in reasonable condition. Last year’s patch and seal held up during the winter and spring thaw. I found two new pot holes that need filling and I will buy some material and fill them.We were not successful in our LRIP grant application at this time. They will hold the applications in case the State of Minnesota releases additional funds for this purpose. I have a teleconference with Rashmi Brewer, the engineer in charge of Grant Programs for the state on June 11th. The grants are scored and she will explain how we did compared to other applicants and help with next year’s application. We will keep trying.In addition, I have reached out to the township attorney for advice on how to proceed with setting up a Subordinate Service District. The first step will be to secure a petition from 50% or more of the landowners in the new Service District asking the Township Board to establish the district. If approved, we would then have the ability to levy all landowners along the West Branch township road to accumulate funds for the eventual replacement of the road. I will keep you updated of my progress.Further Discussion: St. Louis County placed the 5-ton restriction on West Branch Road and Pequaywan Lake Road except emergency vehicles. They can increase if the road is travelled by 150 or more cars.
• Reminder about June 1^stdrop-off  of tree yard waste at Township site -11:00-2:00 (time extended one hour)
• Procedure for guests wishing to speak at township meetings – for public comment, contact the clerk by email at peqclerk@gmail.com and specify the topic of your comment. Also, do not interrupt the discussion of the board during the meeting. Wait until public comment portion.
• Discussion about Township trail usage and mowing requirements – Nelson and Wilson will walk the trail and report their finding next meeting. Suggestion to install an outdoor camera to determine how many people use it. There was more discussion if it is worth it to purchase of a pull behind finishing lawnmower.
• Adding past years minutes to township website -discussion on possible hours and cost to accomplish the goal. Decision was not to put the past years minutes on the website. If someone wants to see the files, they can contact the clerk by email at peqclerk@gmail.com
• A request for a Living Memorial for Scott Mead on township land: Family members and friends of Scott Mead travelled to Duluth and planted an oak tree in honor of Scott Mead with help from community members. This is to honor the leadership role he played for the township.

New Business

• Proper and prompt response to e-mails received and open meeting rules – Any requests received will have to be discussed at the meeting for approval.
• Discuss to re-key the old filing cabinets – suggested to put a padlock on the cabinets.
• Update on purchase of a new filing cabinet – Dressen reported that a filing cabinet had been purchased and will be delivered to the Firehall when folks are available to help
• Discuss Mark Munger introduction to the board – Mark Munger who is running for office sent an email request to attend a future board meeting. The board is open to have candidates come and tell us their opinions.
• FYI: Ray Barnes was re-hired as deputy treasurer effective April 10, 2024
• FYI: Wilson completed the Local Board of Appeal and Equalization (LBAE) training as required by the Department of Revenue and received a certificate to take effect in 2025
• Discussion to request web administrator Daisy Wallace to create a group email for officers so everyone gets the email sent via the Contact List from the town website instead of individual officer.
• Someone is requesting if the township can plow the Drummond Road which is presently being plowed by the county since part of the road is under the township and there will be at least five full residents. No action taken.

Correspondence

Received:

• Materials for the Local Board of Appeal Meeting on May 7 from St. Louis County Assessor’s Office (Sales Book, Assessment 2024 Book for CVT 502
• Invoice from Minnesota Unemployment Insurance for unemployment compensation they paid a former Web Administrator Daisy Wallace in the amount of $25.00.

Sent:

• List of officers effective April 10, 2024 to Minnesota Association of Townships and St. Louis County Elections
• Online submission of the Presidential Nomination Primary Election expense reimbursement to the State of Minnesota

Public Comment: The Public Comment section is a courtesy extended to persons wishing to address the Board. If you wish to comment during the Township Meeting, follow the protocol below: One public comment per citizen which is limited to two minutes. Submit request by the first Saturday of the month to peqclerk@gmail.com with your full name and comment information. The board can either address the issue, assign someone to address the issue, or do nothing.

Next Meeting, June 11, 2024, 7:00 p.m.

Dressen motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:05 p.m. second by Wilson, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Dressen yay.

Respectfully submitted by:
Lita Wallace, Clerk

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Vice-Chair Douglas Dressen.

Town officers present: Supervisors Douglas Nelson, Douglas Dressen, James Wilson; Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson

Town officer absent: Shane Stolp, Deputy Clerk

Guests present: Ted Wallace, Lori Gherna, Bonnie Dressen, Daryle Waldriff, Deb Pomroy, Ray Barnes, Stephen Jones, Steve Mueller, Charles Kuettel, Dorothy Salinsky, Ken Kost Aileen Kost, Chris Jussila, Todd Abernethy

Clerk’s Report:

Copies of the March 12, 2024 minutes were distributed to attendees and they were given time to read it. Nelson motion to approve the minutes, second by Wilson, motion carried. Nelson yay, Dressen yay, Wilson yay.

Treasurer’s Report

MARCH 2024
Total Funds on Hand 3/1/2024 $247,167.83
Plus: Deposits $790.76
-Interest on Accounts 393.76
-Misc Items 397.00

Less: Disbursements $2,533.64
-Payroll 2,206.64
-Other Expenses 327.00

Total Funds on Hand 3/31/2024 $245,424.95
Checks Written 1986-1997

APRIL 2024
Expected Receipts
None Expected

Checks Written 1998 – 2010 $4,722.85
No transfer to checking needed

Nelson motion to approve the Treasurer’s Report, second by Wilson, motion carried. Nelson yay, Dressen yay, Wilson yay.

Old Business

• Result of LRIP (Local Road Improvement Program) grant request – the grant request was denied.
• Update on West Branch Road – An attorney has not been contacted yet as waiting to contact other folks for financing.
• Updated Information on the West Branch Road Maintenance from Supervisor Douglas Nelson
• The township has applied for the LRIP (Local Road Improvement Program) grant to replace the road (our best option) which was denied. Most of the cost would have been covered by the grant. Other options would be to apply for other grants. Also an option is for the township and property owners of West Branch to pay for a contractor to replace the road. There is an estimate from a road contractor of $600,000.00 to replace the road that could be spread three (3) years. The property owners of West Branch Road would need to form a committee to make an assessment to pay their portion of the cost. The above mentioned work would not start until at least two (2) years from now. The road repair done last year has given the life span of the road at least more years before any major work is needed.
• Unemployment insurance discussion – A former employee filed for unemployment and was paid $160.48 so the township will be billed by the Minnesota Unemployment Office. Motion to approve payment is tabled until the invoice is received. Treasurer Nelson reported that the township does not have to pay a monthly unemployment insurance but a bill will be sent to the township if someone claims unemployment.
• Update on open Deputy Treasurer position – nobody has applied for the position
• Last reminder: LBAE (Local Board of Appeal and Equalization) meeting scheduled on May 7, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Pequaywan Firehall. The purpose of this meeting is to determine whether property in the jurisdiction has been properly valued and classified by the Assessor. Public Notice posted on posting sites.

New Business

• Appoint Chair and Vice Chair for Township Board – D. Nelson was appointed as Chair and Wilson as Vice-Chair. Nelson and Wilson aye for Nelson to be chair, Dressen nay. Three ayes for Wilson as Vice-Chair.
• Upcoming dates for tree/brush burn area drop off and posting – Saturday, June 1, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. is the next drop-off date to dispose off dead trees. Location is on the township property in the corner of Rossini Road and Pequaywan Lake Road.
  Requirements are: maximum diameter must be 10 inches; and 2. branches must be de-limbed or separated from the trunk.
• Discussion whether the Town Board Meeting Minutes starting in 1980 be added to the town website. There were 50s 60s and 70s which are Association Minutes. – the cost of the project was discussed and was tabled until next month.
• FYI: Oath of office for elected supervisor James Wilson concluded on March 26. 2024 by clerk Wallace
• Reorganizational Meeting (after the Town Board Meeting)
• Discussion to purchase a pull behind finishing lawnmower. Used one is $900.00 to $1,000.00. Brand new one costs $2,800.00. It will be used in the 1.3 miles Walking Trail in the Rossini area land that the township owns. More discussion next month as additional information is gathered.

Correspondence

Received:

• Letter from MN Department of Transportation re-result of the grant application for (LRIP) Local Road Improvement Program
• Email from St. Louis County Assessor’s Office re-info about the upcoming LBAE (Local Board of Appeal and Equalization) meeting
• Several emails from St. Louis County Association of Townships (SLCAT) and United Township Officers of MN re-upcoming voting for changes in the MAT (Minnesota Association of Townships) Bylaws during Spring Short Course training to various locations.

Sent: None

Public Comment: The Public Comment section is a courtesy extended to persons wishing to address the Board. If you wish to comment during the Township Meeting, follow the protocol below: One public comment per citizen which is limited to two minutes. Submit request by the first Saturday of the month to peqclerk@gmail.com with your full name and comment information. The board can either address the issue, assign someone to address the issue, or do nothing.

Next Meeting, May 14, 2024, 7:00 p.m.

Dressen motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:57 p.m., second by Wilson, motion carried. Nelson yay, Dressen yay, Wilson yay. 

Respectfully submitted by:
Lita Wallace, Clerk

The meeting was called to order at 9:45 p.m. by Chair Kuettel.

Town officers Present: Chair Charles Kuettel, Vice-Chair Douglas Dressen, Supervisor Douglas Nelson, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson, Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp.

Guests: Stephanie Jones, Stephen Jones, Steve Mueller, Bonnie Dressen, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report: Copies of the February 13, 2024 minutes were distributed to attendees and they were given time to read it. Nelson motion to approve the minutes, second by Dressen, motion carried. Kuettel yay, Dressen yay, Nelson yay.

Treasurer’s Report:

FEBRUARY 2024
Total Funds on Hand 2/1/2024 $252,921.12
Plus: Deposits $5,837.33
–Interest on Accounts 417.48
–Town Road Aid 1,832.85
–Taconite Production 3,587.00
Less: Disbursements $11,590.62
–Payroll 752.47
–Fire & EMS 10,000.00
–MAT – Township Dues 315.44
–Other Expenses 522.71
Total Funds on Hand 2/29/2024 $247,167.83
Checks Written 1976 – 1985

MARCH 2024
Expected Receipts
Forfeit Land Revenue – not known
Checks Written 1986 – 1997 $2,531.14
No transfer to checking needed

Motion made by Nelson, second by Dressen to accept Treasurer’s Report. Motion carried. Kuettel yay, Dressen yay, Nelson yay.

Treasurer Nelson will move checking and savings accounts to National Bank of Commerce from Superior Choice Credit Union and the officers will sign using “DocuSign”, sign paperworks online. Motion carried. Kuettel yay, Dressen yay, Nelson yay.

Old Business

• Reminder: Spring training on April 5, 2024 at the DECC for town officers
• Reminder: schedule of LBAE meeting: Tuesday, May 7, 2024, 2:00-3:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall
• Update on the computer software (Microsoft Office and Bit Defender) – Wallace reported that the software MS365 has been purchased and installed on the clerk laptop with John Wall’s help. He will get in contact with other officers to get it installed in their laptops. Wallace also mentioned that Ray Barnes has 4 Bit Defender licenses that he can share with the township. Bit Defender on the clerk’s laptop is working. Treasurer and deputy clerk will need to contact Ray Barnes to get access code for Bit Defender.
• Update on the West Branch Road: If the township did not get the grant, Plan B would be to have assessment going to property owners. Kuettel motion for Nelson to work with a local lawyer to obtain information on how to establish an assessment for residents and the legality of it. Nelson to also inquire if obtaining an assessment will prevent future grants. Kuettel second. Motion carried. Kuettel yay, Dressen yay, Nelson yay.

New Business

• Motion by Nelson, second by Kuettel to accept the 2025 Levy in the amount of $60,000.00 with $25,000.00 for Pequaywan Fire & EMS as accepted at the Annual Town Meeting. Motion carried. Kuettel yay, Dressen nay, Nelson yay. Dressen votes nay as he believes the road plan goes against the oath that he took as a town supervisor not to tax anyone who doesn’t live on the road. Motion carried.
• Results of the township election James, Wilson 34 votes; write-in Donald Swanstrom, 22 votes; write-in Dorothy Galinski, 1 vote. Wilson is being elected as the new supervisor to replace Charles Kuettel.
• A new filing cabinet purchase was requested. Motion by Dressen, second by Nelson to approve, motion carried. Motion carried. Kuettel yay, Dressen yay, Nelson yay. Dressen will purchase the filing cabinet.
• Question whether deputy clerk gets paid for attending Annual Town Meeting as requested by the clerk as it is part of training purposes and assistance to the clerk – per MAT it is at the discretion of the board: Nelson motion to pay meeting rate, Dressen second. Motion carried. Kuettel yay, Dressen yay, Nelson yay.
• Unemployment Insurance was discussed. Board requested the treasurer to follow-up and report an update next month.
• Discussion on Pequaywan Fire and EMS to do a monthly update and safety column on the town website and/or Facebook page: Nelson discussed with fire chief at last meeting. Chief was in favor. Motion by Nelson to add, second by Dressen. Motion carried. Kuettel yay, Dressen yay, Nelson yay.
• Letter from Representative Natalie Zeleznikar: a task force was formed to financially help EMS programs in Minnesota
• Per Minnesota Association of Townships, the following are information that should be in the minutes of board meetings:

1. the kind of meeting (e.g., regular town board meeting);
   2. name of the governing body;
   3. date, time, and place of the meeting;
   4. full name of all the town officers, present or absent;
   5. reading and approval of previous meeting minutes;
   6. reading and approval of the financial report;
   7. the individual items of business raised and the full name of the officers making and       seconding the motion;
   8. the votes of the supervisors on any action taken in the meeting, including the vote of     each supervisor on each appropriation of money, except for payments of judgments,           claims, and amounts fixed by statute; Minn. Stat. § 13D.01, subd. 4(b);
   9. adjournment and time of adjournment; and
   10. signature by the clerk and chair upon approval.

Correspondence
Received:

• Various emails from St. Louis County Elections regarding the March elections
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace for March 2024 web maintenance in the amount of $75.00,
• Letter from Representative Natalie Zeleznikar

Sent:

• Mailed Absentee Ballots for Town Election residents

Public Comment: The Public Comment section is a courtesy extended to persons wishing to address the Board. If you wish to comment during the Township Meeting, follow the protocol below: One public comment per citizen which is limited to two minutes. Submit comment information by the first Saturday of the month to peqclerk@gmail.com with your full name . The board can either address the issue, assign someone to address the issue, or do nothing.
Public comment request: N/A

Next Meeting, April 9, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.

Dressen motion to adjourn the meeting at 10:40 p.m., second by Nelson, motion carried. Kuettel yay, Dressen yay, Nelson yay.

Respectfully submitted by:
Lita Wallace, Clerk
Shane Stolp, Deputy Clerk