September 10, 2024, Township Board Meeting Minutes (Unapproved)

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. Dressen motion to approve the minutes, Wilson 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. Equipmet 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

August 13, 2024, Township Board Meeting Minutes

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

July 9, 2024, Township Board Meeting Minutes

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

June 11, 2024, Township Board Meeting Minutes

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 1stdrop-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

 

May 14, 2024, Township Board Meeting Minutes

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 1stdrop-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

April 9, 2024, Township Board Meeting Minutes

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

March 12, 2024, Township Board Meeting Minutes

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 CommentThe 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

 

March 12, 2024, Annual Town Meeting Minutes (Unapproved)

  • The meeting was called to order by clerk Lita Wallace at 8:40 p.m. The meeting was held at the Pequaywan Fire Hall.
  • Attendees: Clerk Lita Wallace, Bill Scalzo, Lynn Scalzo, Faye Swanstrom, Don Swanstrom, Doug Dressen, Deb Pomroy, Bonnie Dressen, Carol Nelson, Dale Brooks, Corbin Ringsred, Katlin Dellenbach, Lori Rich, John Rich, John Wall, Chris Jussila, Thomas Getchell, Dorothy Galinski, Laurie King, Ken Kost, Mike Nilsen, Nancy Nilsen, Steven Call, Melodee Call, Ted Wallace, Stephen Jones, Stephanie Jones, Steve Mueller, Matt Nielsen, Debbie Maida, Jeff Maida, Charles Kuettel, Brian Linn Penny Linn, Jeff Gruver, Jim Wilson, Mark Freeman, Daryle Waldriff, Thomas Jackson
  • Wallace read the result of Township Election for one open supervisor position as follows: James Wilson, 34 votes; write-in Donald Swanstrom, 22 votes; write-in Dorothy Galinski, 1 vote. James Wilson won the election.
  • Election of a moderator (registered voters at Pequaywan Township): Chris Jussila and Mark Freeman were nominated. Mark Freeman declined. Voters voted for Chris Jussila to be the moderator which he accepted with a unanimous vote.
  • Moderator announced Agenda for rest of Meeting (moderator, subject to modification by vote of electorate) in which there was no change.
  • (Moderator) Review and approve previous year’s annual meeting minutes: The clerk provided copies of the 2023 Annual meeting minutes. A motion and second  to approve the minutes were provided, and voted unanimously, motion carried.
  • Road Report was provided by supervisors Douglas Nelson, Charles Kuettel, and Douglas Dressen. Discussion ensued around how much has been spent on the road over the years, grant status for assistance on repair, and potential assessment for residents. Further discussion to take place at board level. See below for more information on the Road Report.
  • (Treasurer) Reading of Board of Audit Report was completed.
2023 Cash Control Statement 1/1/2023-12/31/2023
Fund Beginning Balance Receipts Disbursements Ending Balance
General Fund $26,772.97 $48,073.55 $33,903.89 $40,942.63
Road and Bridge (On-going Maintenance 11,782.09 4,349.55 9,371.99 6,759.65
Fire and EMS 21,525.28 18,373.31 18,000.00 21,898.59
Building/Property Maintenance Fund 3,500.00 1,994.12 0.00 5,494.12
Roads and Bridges (Capital Reserve) 171,929.15 7,471.73 0.00 179,400.88
Total $235,509.49 $80,262.26 $61,275.88 $254,495.87
  • Treasurer presented comparison of Levy and Expenses from previous years
SUMMARY 2024 LEVY 2023 LEVY   2023 EXPENSES 2022 EXPENSES
General Fund $26.000.00 $35,000.00 $33,903.89 $18,669.77
Road and Bridges (On-going Maintenance 2,000.00 2,000.00 9,371.99 3,168.83
Fire and EMS 25,000.00 18,000.00 18,000.00 16,500.00
Building/Property Maintenance Fund 2,000.00 2,000.00 0.00 0.00
Roads and Bridges (Capital Reserve) 5,000.00 2,000.00 0.00 0.00
Total $60,000.00 $59,000.00 $61,275.88 $38,338.60
  • (Pequaywan Fire Chief Tom Getchell) Report from Pequaywan Fire & EMS and request for 2025 Levy:  The Fire Department is requesting $25,000.00 which is the same as in 2024 and to be paid in two installments in 2025. Electors vote on the amount to provide for fire department, supervisors will render the final decision during March Town Board Meeting. See 2024 Budget at https://pequaywantownship.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/PLVFD.pdf

For 2022 and 2023, their expenses exceeded their income. A question was asked about their 2024 income and expenses and again the loss projected. Getchell said that that future levy requests would be higher. Getchell mentioned that dead balsam issue is a fire hazard. Residents thanked the fire department for taking care of pile of brush on Rossini Road and for the work throughout the year. A resident requests board increase their funding by $5,000 with no action taken.

  • Treasurer presented total levy which was not increased from 2024. The Levy for Roads and Bridges (Capital Reserve) was set at $35,000.00 to make up for the lowered Levy in 2023 and 2024. It was discussed that we should build up this fund in order to be in a better position to apply for matching funds grants for road improvements.
  • (Moderator) Motion(s) to approve general levy and any dedicated levies (road & bridge, plus others determined helpful to treat as designated and not just a budget item from the general fund) and to affirm total levy including funds for Pequaywan Fire & EMS. Eligible voters vote on the 2025 Levy as proposed by the present Town Board.

Motion and second (voted 37 yays and 3 nays) to set a levy of $60,000 as presented including $25,000.00 for Pequaywan Fire & EMS, motion carried.

SUMMARY Estimated Balance 1/1/2025 2025 General Levy (Receipts) 2025 Budget (Disburse ments) Estimated Balance 12/21/2025
General Fund $46,900.00 $5,000.00 $ 30,000.00 $21,900.00
Road and Bridges (On-going Maintenance 3,750.00 5,000.00 5000.00 3,750.00
Fire and EMS 21,900.00 15,000.00 25,000.00 11,900.00
Building/Property Maintenance Fund 7,500.00 0.00 0 7,500.00
Roads and Bridges (Capital Reserve) 184,400.00 35,000.00 0 219,400.00
Total 264,450.00 $60,000.00 $60,000.00 264,450.00
  • General Discussion of Items of Concern: This section can be used to allow the residents to voice their opinions on any matter, but such input is only advisory to the board. Common issues may include culvert policies, desired posting locations, etc.

–A resident recommended to update the community Pequaywan Lake Association directory and suggested to put it on the Association website. However, there was a strong consensus not to put it on the website due to spam concerns and hacking.

  • The State of Minnesota set the Annual Town Meeting on the second Tuesday of March following the Town Election. The Annual Town Meeting will be held at Pequaywan Firehall
  • Motion and second to set monthly Town Board Meeting date, time and location to second Tuesday of each month, 7:00 p.m. with the exception of March Meeting to be scheduled after the Annual Town Meeting. Location is Pequaywan Fire Hall.
  • Motion and second to set time to convene and call to order the 2025 Annual Town Meeting at 8:35 p.m.
  • Motion and second to set primary voting place at Pequaywan Fire Hall; garage in case Pequaywan Fire Hall is not available due to unforeseen circumstances, secondary voting place is Pequaywan Trail Blazer Snowmobile Club (contact person is Ray Barnes)
  • Motion and second to set voting time as follows:
    10:00 a.m.- 8:00 p.m., Presidential Nomination Primary Election, Primary Election and General Election
    10:00 a.m.- 8:00 p.m., State Election
    10:00 a.m.- 8:00 p.m., Special Primary Election  and Special General Election
    5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Township Election
  • Motion and second to set posting areas at:
    – pequaywantownship.org website
    – West Branch Road Marquee
    – Pequaywan Fire & EMS bulletin board
    – Pequaywan Inn bulletin board
    -Pequaywan Lake Community Facebook Page

All motions voted unanimously, motion carried.

  • Motion and second to adjourn meeting at 9:58 p.m., motion carried.Respectfully submitted by:
    Lita Wallace, Clerk
    Shane Stolp, Deputy Clerk

———————————————————–

Annual Road Update by Supervisor Douglas Nelson

During the past year, the township spent $25,071.99 on the West Branch Road. The breakdown is as follows:

Snowplowing $2.298.85
Pothole patch by supervisor $73.14
Sinnot Blacktop, LLC $22,700.00

The largest amount was for Sinnot Blacktop, LLC at $22,700.00. This was in two stages. The first was patching the holes and filling in along the road edges. The second state was to fill the cracks with tar. These repairs have help up very well over the winter and will extend the useful life of the road by several years. The blacktop road is 30 years old. The repairs will buy us some time but it is nearing the end of its useful life.

The township has applied for a grant from the State of Minnesota under the Local Road Improvement Program (LRIP). We must thank Lynne Scalzo for doing all the work on this grant application. If approved, it will rebuild and repave the entire 2.3 miles of township road. The new road would be a 10-ton road limit with 2 layers of blacktop vs. the existing 7-ton road limit and improved shoulders. The grant amount would be in the amount of $1,435.594. The township would be responsible for engineering and miscellaneous expenses approximately $86,135.00. This grant requires us to build the new road to State Specifications. We should hear the results of our request by April 1st.

If we do not get the grant, our next option will be to apply for other state aid programs. These grants are need based and often use matching funds, The township must show that State that they are making a reasonable effort to fund the road project on their own before they are willing to help. During the past years, the township have been setting aside funds in the Road and Bridge Capital Reserve account that can only be used for the township road. We have been buying CD’s within the funds to create some income. To date, we have $179,400.88 in the fund. Last year, we put the funds levied into the General Fund. We now know we are better off having the funds in our Road and Bridge Capital Reserve account so we are better able to get State funds.

In this year’s levy, we are asking for $35,000.00 earmarked for Road and Bridge Capital Reserve. There is no increase in the Levy we are asking for over last year’s funding. Taxes are not going up! We’re just putting the money in a different category. Taxes will probably go down because of the increase in Taxable Market Value based on the recent home sales and new homes being built.

In addition, we get Minnesota State Gas Tax revenue which by law ban only be used for Road and Bridges. In 2023, we received $1,611.68. In 2024, we will receive $1,832.85 from this gas tax.

How does Pequaywan Township taxes “Levy” compare to other townships? We are far lower than most townships. The supervisors over the years have been very frugal with your money.

Pequaywan Township levy in 2023 was 9.011
Northstar Township 14.0256
Alden Township 20.133
Normanna Township 9.793
Unorganized Township 12.279

A little history of the Township road. The original blacktop was done in 1993 at a cost of $75,000.00 The cost was split 50/50 between the landowners and the township portion of West Branch Road and the township itself, each paying $37,500.00, The work was done piggybacking on a County Road blacktop project nearby that greatly reduced the cost. It is cost effective to do our project at the same time the County is doing work nearby.

Several numbers have been put forth about what the new road will cost. We received a bid last year from Sinnot Blacktop to do an overlay of the existing road at a cost of $651,100.00. Sinnott offered that they can do it in 3 phases to spread the cost over time.

In addition, we know there are a couple of areas where a new base needs to be installed. Typically removing about 5 feet of fill, installing stabilization fabric and refill with gravel compacting as you go then new blacktop. My best guess is that by the time we are ready to do the project it will be close to $1,000,000.00. This will be a 7-ton load limit road.

The quality of West Branch Road is important for the residents who use it every day as well as the seasonal cabin owners. No dust in our homes, no flat tires. no chipped windshields, no dirty vehicles and much greater safety.

It is also very important for our EMS and firefighters to have a very good road when every minute counts toward saving a life or putting out a fire. This also applies to Law Enforcement.

The County plow river inspects the road each fall and if he decides it’s not in good repair and would damage his equipment, he can cancel our county plowing contract. This contract is very low and a bargain compared to having a private company do the plowing. We’re paying $2,298.95 now. If we had to find a private contractor, the price would be triple or quadruple.

A quick breakdown of your taxes:
St. Louis County 60,381.00
School District 9,722.00
Pequaywan Township 9.011
Total 79.114

I will use my own house as an example. My 2024 estimated market value is $452,700.00. You can use your house values to interpret your costs. My market value went up by $20,100.00 and my taxes went down by $129.00,

My proposed tax is $3,546.00
St. Louis County $2,647.3
School District $703.85
Pequaywan Township General Fund and Fire Department $156.26
Pequaywan Township Road and Bridge Capital Reserve Fund $218.46

In summary, that is about $18.20 per month.

——————————————

From Supervisor Douglas Dressen: Two of the Supervisors approved this levy.  According to recent meeting notes, Doug Nelson says West Branch is now fixed to be usable for 3 years.  The snowplowing bill from ST. Louis County is under $2500, and there is $8759.65 in the maintenance fund now.  Why are we being taxed another $5000?

There are 493 parcels in Pequaywan and 88 on 2.3 miles of West Branch. These numbers are directly from the Auditor’s office, some of these parcels are not tax paying. Since 2015, I count $179,800 tax dollars have been spent on West Branch and in 2016 $193,695 was taken from the General Fund and put in a Capital Reserve account that cannot be used for anything but West Branch Rd. The Minnesota Constitution that the Supervisors pledge to uphold states in section 10 Public Purpose expenditures, that the criteria for public expenditures will benefit the community as a body.

There are $184,400 in the Capitol Reserve Fund now. I found no mention of a vote from taxpayers to take so much money and designate it to be exclusively for West Branch.  These dollars benefit only a fraction of our population.

Our agreement with county when we split from Alden Township was that we will build a Town Hall for voting and Township business., and maintain the graveled West Branch Road.  The residents on West Branch want an improved and more like County 44 road and there is a fix for this-  a statute passed in 1989 called a Subordinate Service District.  We need to address this in the near future with an all taxpayer vote.

As far as the Levy presented today, if you haven’t seen any benefit from the $179,800 spent, and the $184,400  that the Township Supervisors transferred from the General Fund to the Capital Reserve Fund, I’m hoping you’ll vote no.

February 13, 2024, Budget Meeting

The meeting was called to order by Chair Kuettel at 7:50 p.m.

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

Town officer Absent: Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp

Guest: Nancy Nilsen, Dan Ahonen, Katie Dehenbach, Thomas Getchell, Dorothy Galinski, John Wall, Stephen Jones, Steve Mueller, Chris Jussila, Ed Potter, Ted Wallace

2023 Cash Control Statement
1/1/2023-12/31/2023
Fund Beginning Balance Receipts Disbursements Ending Balance
General Fund $26,772.97 $48,073.55 $33,903.89 $40,942.63
Road and Bridge (On-going Maintenance 11,782.09 4,349.55 9,371.99 6,759.65
Fire and EMS 21,525.28 18,373.31 18,000.00 21,898.59
Building/Property Maintenance Fund 3,500.00 1,994.12 0 5,494.12
Roads and Bridges (Capital Reserve) 171,929.15 7,471.73 0 179,400.88
Total $235.509.49 $80,262.26 $61,275.88 $254,495.87

Discuss and Set-up Proposed Budget for 2025

Name of Fund 2025 Levy Approved by the Board for Presentation at the March Annual Town Meeting (Receipts) 2025 Budget Approved by the Board (Disbursements)
General Fund
$ 5,000.00 $30,000.00
Road and Bridges (On-going Maintenance)
5,000.00 5,000.00
Fire & EMS
15,000.00 25,000.00
Building/Property Maintenance Fund
0.00 0.00
Road and Bridges (Capital Reserve)
35,000.00 0.00
Total Amount
$60,000.00 $60,000.00

The total Levy was not increased from 2024. The Levy for Roads and Bridges (Capital Fund) was set at $35,000.00 to make up for the lowered Levy in 2023 and 2024. It was discussed that we should build up this fund in order to be in a better position to apply for matching funds grants for road improvements.

Nelson motion to approve, second by Kuettel, motion carried. Kuettel yay, Dressen nay, Nelson yay.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Clerk

 

 

February 13, 2024, Township Board Meeting Minutes

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

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

Town officers Absent: Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp

Guests: Chris Jussila, Steve Mueller, Stephen Jones, Deb Pomroy, Ted Wallace, Ray Barnes, Bonnie Dressen, Dorothy Galinski Jim Wilson, John Wall, Kenneth Kost, Aileen Kost, Nancy Nilsen

Clerk’s Report

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

Treasurer’s Report

JANUARY 2024
Total Funds on Hand 1/1/2024 $254,495.87
Plus: Deposits $748.11
Interest on Accounts 416.97
St Louis County Auditor 331.14
Less: Disbursements $2,322.86
-Payroll 564.64
-941 PR Taxes 917.52
-MN Revenue 100.00
-Legal 550.00
Other Expenses 190.70

Total Funds on Hand 1/31/2024 $252,921.12
Checks Written 1967 – 1975

FEBRUARY 2024
Expected Receipts
-St Louis Cty – Road Aid $1,832.85
-Taconite Production Tax not known

Checks Written #1976 – #1985 $11,590.62 (Disbursements include $10,000.00 advance payment to Pequaywan Fire and EMS with agreement that they will submit a request to that effect.

No transfer to checking needed

Nelson motion to approve the minutes, second by Dressen, motion carried. Kuettel yay, Dressen yay, Nelson yay.

Old Business

  • St. Louis County Sheriff’s Department discussion – no one from the Sheriff’s Office was present
  • Update on the West Branch Road: Kuettel read the following statement: “The township has applied for a grant to replace the road (our best option). Most of the cost will be covered by the grant. Other options would be for the township and property owners of West Branch Road 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 done.”
  • Elections reminder: Presidential Nomination Primary Election, March 5 from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; and March 12 Town Election from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., both at Pequaywan Firehall
  • Treasurer Nelson presented possible financial institutions to replace our current one with comparison of interest rates

New Business

  • Spring training on April 5, 2024 at the DECC – Wallace advised the officers to let her know if they are planning on attending and she can submit one registration for everybody.
  • Open position for deputy treasurer – Ed Potter submitted a resignation letter for his deputy treasurer position effective February 13, 2024 due to personal reasons. The vacant position should be posted in posting places.
  • Schedule of LBAE meeting: Tuesday, May 7, 2024, 2:00-3:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall.
  • Approve Resolution to Appoint Election Judges – motion to approve by Nelson, second by Dressen, motion carried. Kuettel yay, Dressen yay, Nelson yay.
  • Approve Resolution to Appoint Absentee Ballot Board – motion to approve by Nelson, second by Dressen, motion carried. Kuettel yay, Dressen yay, Nelson yay.
  • Establish salary for Annual Town Meeting Moderator – Nelson motion a $50.00 salary for moderator during Annual Town Meeting. Moderator must be a resident voter.
  • Discussion about the found March 13, 1990 Annual Town Meeting Minutes that talked about West Branch Road – table till March Annual Town Meeting
  • Unemployment Insurance – appointed officers are covered by Unemployment Insurance and eligible for unemployment compensation on eligible reasons for leaving the employment.
  • Budget Meeting for 2025 right after the Board Meeting tonight
  • Clerk request to purchase Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) software for installation on clerk laptop with one-time purchase in the amount of $149.99 plus tax for one PC – Nelson motion to allow the maximum amount of $450.00 to purchase annual subscription for Microsoft 365 and an anti-virus software for the four (4) laptops owned by the township. John Wall volunteered to research and assist with installation.
  • Help needed to set-up additional chairs and fold tables after the Town Election to get ready for the Annual Town Meeting – several folks have volunteered.

Correspondence

Received:

  • Various emails from St. Louis County Elections regarding the upcoming Presidential Nomination Primary Election as well as the March Town Election including several training modules for the clerk and election judges to complete before the elections. Also email re-guide to operate the new OmniBallot voting machine.
  • Email from MATIT (Minnesota Association of Townships Insurance & Bond Trust re-requirement to submit 2023 Workers’ Compensation Payroll Audit which includes payroll information and W-3 form by February 15.
  • Email from St, Louis County Auditor’s Office to submit the Annual Report of Outstanding Indebtedness for 2023 by February 1.
  • Email from St. Louis County Assessor’s Office for information on the 2024 Local Board of Appeal Equalization date for the township which is May 7, 2024 at 2:00-3:00 p.m.
  • Invoice from Daisy Wallace for February 2024 web maintenance in the amount of $56.25.
  • Email from U.S. Census Bureau to complete the online form for 2024 Boundary and Annexation Survey.

Sent:

  • Mailed Absentee Ballots for Town Election to three residents (clerk)
  • Filled the online form 2024 Boundary and Annexation Survey (BAS) from U.S. Census Bureau with due date of March 1, 2024 (C. Kuettel)
  • Mailed the Annual Report of Outstanding Indebtedness with due date of February 1, 2024 (treasurer)
  • Submitted CTAS financial statement online with due date of April 2024 (treasurer)
  • Mailed MATIT Workers’ Compensation (WC) Survey with due date of February 15, 2024 (treasurer)

Public CommentThe 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:

  1. No more than one public comment per citizen.
  2. Submit your comment information to peqclerk@gmail.com with your full name.
  3. Deadline to submit your request is the first Saturday of the month.
  4. Your presentation will be limited to two minutes.
  5. What you said will be on file, and the board can either address the issue, assign someone to address the issue, or do nothing.

Public comment request by: Bonnie Dressen re-Township Solidarity: She commented that since people pay taxes, they should be able to vote on West Branch Road issue.

Next Meeting, March 12, 2024 at 9:45 p.m. or after the Annual Town Meeting.

Nelson motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:40 p.m., second by Dressen, motion carried. Kuettel yay, Dressen yay, Nelson yay.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Clerk