Author: peqclerk

September 13, 2022 Board Meeting Minutes

Pequaywan Fire Hall
8764 Pequaywan Lake Road
Duluth, MN 55803

Meeting was called to order by Charles Kuettel 7:00

Attendance
Officers: Supervisor Charles Kuettel, Supervisor Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor Doug Dressen, Treasurer Carol Nelson, Deputy Treasure Ed Potter, Deputy Clerk Diana Potter.

Guests: Ray Barnes, Deb Pomroy Gloria Redburn, John and Sandie Wilson

Clerk’s Report

The August 9^th,2022 Township Board Meeting Minutes for approval. Kuettel requested to amend the Minutes to reflect a 9:00pm starting time. Swanstrom moved to accept as amended, the motion was seconded by Dressen, the motion passed 3-0-0

Kuettel requested to amend the Meeting Minutes of June 2022 to reflect a motion made that was omitted.  Motion made by Swanstrom to have Dressen make a 5 feet wide pathway from the Parking area to the walking path and put in fencing.  Dressen made the second. Motion passed 3-0-0

Swanstrom moved to accept the June Minutes as amended, Dressen seconded Motion Passed 3-0-0

Treasurer’s Report

August 2022
Total Funds on hand as of 08/01/2022 (Including Investments) $214,541.52
Plus: Deposits                                                                                     $3136.40
Interests on Accounts                                        $66.40
St Louis County Taconite Production               $3070.00
Less: Disbursements                                                                           $479.77
Payroll                                                                $304.75
Other Expenses                                                  $175.02
Total Funds on hand as of 08/31/2022                          $217,198.15
August check #1805-1809

September 2022
Deposits – none anticipated
Disbursements – $2071.76
Checks written #1810-1821
No transfers to the Checking Account will be needed

 

Carol called DNR for funds, will get by next month. PILT taxes due from county.

Motion to accept the treasurers report made by Dressen, seconded by Swanstrom. Motion passed 3-0-0

Old Business

• Road Repair on West Branch still planned with A1 out of Brainard. Dressen will discuss with contractor. Dressen got the fire number that was requested.
• Update on snow plowing contract for West Branch made by Kuettel. Amber is working on getting the contract to Kuettel for signatures. There is a tight timeline.

New Business

• Training has been completed for election judges
• Diana still needs initial training. Carol will call the Minnesota Association of Townships to get her in the system
• Carol will call St Louis County Auditor requesting invoice for maintenance on the election machine
• Diana will contact Amber regarding website changes to include removal of last tree drop off date, changing the November meeting to Tuesday November 1, 2022 to accommodate Elections on the regularly scheduled meeting date and adding Election dates, times and location

Correspondence
Received

• Email from Bradley Gustafson of St Louis County Planning and Community Development with a save the date reminder for the 2023 CDBG Open House
• Email from the Minnesota Association of Townships with an application for LRIP Township Representative
• Email from Jon Blevins of St Louis County Elections with and update on the Candidate Filings for General Election
• Email from the Minnesota Association of Townships containing the August 2022 Newsletter
• Email from the Minnesota Association of Townships with a reminder of the District 10 meeting on August 25, 2022
• Email from Jon Blevins with a daily ballot proof update
• Email from Jon Blevins with a daily ballot proof update
• Email from Jon Blevins with a daily ballot proof update
• Email from Jon Blevins with a daily ballot proof update
• Email from the Minnesota Association of Townships with an invitation to the legislative and research committee meeting August 31
• Invoice in the amount of $30 from Diasy Wallace for website administration
• Email from Kevin McConnell of St Louis County Public Works with a reminder for the snowplow applications for 2022-2023
• Invoice for $180 from Marilyn Nelson of the St Louis County Auditor
• Email from Jon Blevins of St Louis County Elections about two out of precinct voters
• Email from Lora Skarman of St Louis County Assessors Office with a Boad of Appeal and Equalization training reminder

Sent

Public Comment

• Deb Pomlroy and Raymond Barnes stated that there are possible snails found in Big Lake. Hey will investigate later this week.
• Raymond Barnes state Purple Loose Strife has been documented south of the township in two separate patches and new strain of Buckthorn found in Duluth
• Sandie and John Wilson came to discuss the possible patching of potholes on West Branch Road. Kuettel explained that there is a company from Brainard coming to patch and fill. They also wanted to make note of the large number of dead trees on West Branch and the fire hazard they present.

Upcoming Meeting

• Monthly Board meeting October 11 at 7pm located at the Pequaywan Fire Hall
• Monthly Board meeting November 1 at 7pm located at the Pequaywan Fire Hall

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

The meeting was adjourned by Kuettel at 7:50 pm.

respectfully submitted by,

Diana Potter
Pequaywan Township Deputy clerk

August 9, 2022 Board Meeting Minutes

Pequaywan Fire Hall
8764 Pequaywan Lake Road
Duluth, MN 55803

Meeting was called to order at 9pm by Charles Kuettel

Attendance
Officers: supervisor Charles Kuettel, supervisor Douglas Dressen, supervisor Donald Swanstrom, clerk Amber Cruz, deputy clerk Diana Potter, treasurer Carol Nelson and deputy treasurer Edward Potter

Clerk’s Report
July 12, 2022 Board Meeting minutes for approval. Motion to approve the minutes was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

Treasurer’s Report
July 2022
Total Funds on had as of 07/01/2022 (Including Investments)                                  $182,326.75
Plus: Deposits                                                                                     $33,009.15
Interest on Accounts                                          $64.64
St. Louis County Tax Apportionment               $32,116.51
State of MN Township Aid                               $828.00

Less: Disbursements                                                                           $794.38
Payroll                                                               $295.52
Other Expenses                                                 $21.50
941 Payroll Taxes                                             $477.36

Total Funds on hand as of 07/31/2022                                                                       $214,541.52
July Checks written: # 1801- 1804

August
Deposits – St. Louis County – Payments in leu of taxes and Taconite Production Tax
Disbursements – $479.77
August Checks written: # 1805-1809
No transfers to the Checking Account will be needed

A motion to accept the report was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Dressen, the motion passed 3-0-0

Old Business

• Update on West Branch Road: A-1 Asphalt of Brainerd gave a quote of $2000 for 1 ton of mix. The 18 cracks would be separate from the quote. It was decided to try A-1 Asphalt for a year and re-evaluate. A motion to accept the asphalt quote was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

New Business

• Clerk Report on Primary Election/ upcoming elections: There was a good turnout for primaries. There are 146 registered voters for Pequaywan township. The general election November 8, 2022 will interfere with the monthly township meeting. The supervisors have decided to hold the township meeting on November 1, 2022 at 7 pm. The clerk will send notice of the change of date for the meeting as well as a notice for absentee ballot application deadlines to township residents. A motion to change the date of the meeting was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Dressen, the motion carried 3-0-0
• Discussion on the request of the township creating an ordinance: Pequaywan Township does not create ordinances

Correspondence
Received

• Forwarded email from Kristin Anderson of St Louis County on the Federal acceptance of the flood/damage relief request sent by Governor Waltz
• Email from Jon Blevins of the St Louis County Elections Department contain the elections public notice and a sample ballot
• Email from Marilyn Nelson of St Louis County Auditors Office with the time and location for election materials pickup
• Email from the Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) containing the July 2022 newsletter
• Email from MAT with an invitation to the District 10 meeting August 25, 2022
• Email from Jon Blevins of St Louis County Elections Department with update on the election judge training
• Email from Amanda Mitchell of St Louis County Public Works with information on the 2023 St Louis County Maintenance Programs
• Email from Jon Blevins of St Louis County Elections Department with administration codes for the Automark and DS200
• Email from Marilyn Nelson of St Louis County Auditors Office with information on the required public accuracy test
• Email from Gary Gustafson contain update to the election roster
• Email from Kevin McConnell of St Louis County Publics Works with the Pequaywan Township Snowplow Application
• Forwarded email from Holly Olson of St Louis County Sheriffs Office with the FEMA DR 4659 Applicant Briefing
• Email from Jon Blevins of St Louis County Elections Department with information on election materials returns
• Email from Wendy Johnson of St Louis County Elections Department with updated Master List for the elections
• Email from Jon Blevins of St Louis County Elections Department with election day contacts and reminders
• Email from Jon Blevins of St Louis County Elections Department with election night results reporting instructions
• Email from Marilyn Nelson of St Louis County Auditor with election day apparel guidelines

Sent

• Clerk returned election materials and results to courthouse after poll closing

Public Comment

There was no public comment at this moment

Upcoming Meetings

• Monthly Board meeting September 13 at 7pm located at the Pequaywan Fire Hall
• Monthly Board meeting November 1 at 7pm located at the Pequaywan Fire Hall

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

The meeting was adjourned by Kuettel at 9:56 pm

Respectfully submitted by,
Amber Cruz, township clerk

July 12, 2022 Board Meeting Minutes

Pequaywan Fire Hall
8764 Pequaywan Lake Road
Duluth, MN 55803

The meeting was called to order at 7:05 pm by Charles Kuettel

Attendance
Officers: Supervisor Charles Kuettel, supervisor Donald Swanstrom, clerk Amber Cruz, deputy clerk Diana Potter, treasurer Carol Nelson and deputy treasurer Edward Potter.
Guests: Paul Klassen

Clerk’s Report

June 14, 2022 Board Meeting minutes for approval with the removal of the Lake Association dates as they were incorrect.  Motion to accept the minutes was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Kuettel. Motion passed 2-0-0

Treasurer’s Report-

June 2022
Total Funds on hand as of 06/01/2022 (Includes Investments)                                  $184,258.38
Plus: Deposits                                                                                                 $65.93
Interest on Accounts                                                                  $65.93
Less: Disbursements                                                                                       $1,997.56
Payroll                                                                                       $1,717.70
Other Expenses                                                                         $279.86
Total Funds on hand as of 06/30/2022                                                                       $182,326.75
Junes Checks written #1790 – 1800

July 2022
Deposits – First half of Tac Apportionment payments ($32,116.51)
Disbursements – $794.38
Checks written #1801 – 1804
No transfers to the Checking Account will be needed

Old Business

• Update on West Branch Road: The supervisors have been having difficulties finding contractors. Elmquist will be able to make the repairs in August at the earliest. A tentative budget of $4,000 has been given to Elmquist. A motion to approve the tentative budget was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Kuettel, the motion carried 2-0-0
• Upcoming elections: Elections are to be held at the Pequaywan Fire Hall on August 9, 2022. The election hours are 7 am to 8 pm. Alternative location incase of the inability to use the Fire Hall will be at the Trailblazers snowmobile club. The alternative location was motioned for approval by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Kuettel, the motion carried 2-0-0

New Business

• Training updates: Motion to approve the reimbursement of the election judges was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Kuettel, the motion carried 2-0-0

Correspondence
Received

• Email from Angela Lepak of St Louis County Planning and Community Development containing the Findings of Fact, Conclusions and Decision the Board has formally approved for the Allen Hanson application
• Email from John Blevins of the St Louis County Elections department on the available online training for potential election judges
• Forwarded email from Holly Olson of the St Louis County Sheriffs office pertaining to the damages caused by the May 29^th/30^th and June 20^th storms
• Email from the Minnesota Association of Townships containing the June 2022 newsletter
• Email from the Minnesota Association of Townships Insurance and Bond Trust containing a letter
• Invoice in the amount of $21.50 from Daisy Wallace for website maintenance
• Email from Marilyn Nelson of St Louis County Auditors office on upcoming election training events

Sent

• Email to the St Louis County Elections department with the names, emails and phone numbers of judges that needed election judge training.

Public Comment

• Paul Klaussen wanted the township to know that his neighbor was conducting a type of short-term rental with his neighbor’s church without the required permits. The township cannot enforce the permit requirements, this is up to the county to enforce the permits.

Upcoming Meeting

• Monthly Board meeting August 9, 2022 at 9pm located at the Pequaywan Fire Hall

A motion to adjourn the meeting was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Kuettel, the motion carried 2-0-0

The meeting was adjourned by Kuettel at 7:53 pm.

Respectfully submitted by,
Amber Cruz, Pequaywan Township clerk

June 14, 2022 Township Board Meeting
Pequaywan Fire Hall
8764 Pequaywan Lake Road
Duluth, MN 55803

Meeting was called to order by Charles Kuettel at 7pm

Attendance
Officers: Supervisor Chuck Kuettel, supervisor Donald Swanstrom, supervisor Doug Dressen, treasurer Carol Nelson, deputy treasurer Edward Potter, clerk Amber Cruz (via phone) and deputy clerk Diana Potter
Guests: Gloria Redburn

Clerk’s Report

• Swanstrom asked that all correspondence be forwarded to the supervisors before the meetings for review
• The May 10, 2022 Township Board Meeting Minutes for approval. Motion to approve was provided by Swanstrom. The motion was seconded by Dressen, motion carried 3-0-0

Treasurer’s Report

May 2022
Total Funds on hand as of 05/01/2022 (Includes Investments) $189,121.65
Plus: Deposits                                                                                                 $64.57
Interest on Accounts                                                                  $64.57

Less: Disbursements                                                                                       $1,927.84
Payroll                                                                                       $429.43
Other Expenses                                                                         $377.16
St Louis County Plowing                                                          $1,121.25

Total Funds on hand as of 05/31/2022                                                $184,258.38        May Checks written: #1780-1788
Void check 1789

June 2022
Deposits: $0
Disbursements: $1,997.56

Checks written #1790-1800

No transfers to the checking account will be needed at this time.

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

Old Business

• West Branch Road update: Supervisors are looking for different contractors to work on the road. Cracks need sealed. The road is going to be too big of a project for individuals, and due to liability issues, a company needs to be involved.
• Tree/branch drop date changes for the Township website:
  June 18, July 16 and August 27
• township property: there was a discussion about adding a 5 foot wide trail head at the property. this will be revisited at a later date

New Business

• Current and future election judges will need training in July for upcoming elections. Due to changes in the law, all current judges must retrain to maintain their election judge positions. Training is to be a 4 hour long training done online.
• Elections: the primaries are in September. Election judges need to have their training completed by the end of July. Information about the primaries will be mailed to residents as well as posted in the North Shore Journal. Information will also be posted on the bulletin boards.

Correspondence
Received

• Email reminder from Cathy Rouleau of St Louis County Association of Townships (SLCAT) to submit any reservations for the annual meeting and dinner to be held on May 25, 2022
• Email from Sherry Elleraas of Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) confirming receipt of new/updated officer list
• Email from Marilyn Nelson of St Louis County Elections Department with a reminder of the upcoming mandatory elections administration training for all township clerks
• Email from Jonathan Blevins of St Louis County Elections department with a election judge party list
• Email from MAT containing information on Minnesota’s Frontline Worker Pay
• Email from MAT with a legislative update and advocacy alert
• May 2022 newsletter from MAT
• Email from Holly Olson of St Louis County with information on damage reporting for St Louis County Townships and Cities
• Email from Angela Lepak of St Louis County Planning and Community Development with the decision of the BOA
• Email from Holly Olson of St Louis County with information on damage assessment visit with MN HSEM
• Invoice of $32.40 from Daisy Wallace for website maintenance
• Email from Teresa Hirsch of St Louis County Public Works with the results for the 2022 Calcium Chloride Dust Control Bid #5808 letter
• Email invite from Laura Birnbaum of St Louis County to celebrate an effective end to veteran homelessness in St Louis County
• Email from Angela Lepak of St. Louis County Planning and Community Development with the new St Louis County draft zoning ordinance amendments (CWD)
• Email from Bradley Gustafson of St Louis County Planning and Community Development on the 2022 CDBG Income/rent limits and ESG income limits

Sent

• Email to Marilyn Nelson of St Louis County Elections department confirming the mandatory clerk training to take place June 9, 2022

Public Comment

There was no public comment

Upcoming meetings

• Township board meeting July 12, 2022 starting at 7 pm at the Pequaywan Fire Hall
• Township board meeting August 9, 2022 starting at 7 pm at the Pequaywan Fire Hall

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

The meeting was adjourned by Kuettel at 7:15 pm

Respectfully submitted by,
Amber Cruz, Clerk

May 10, 2022 Township Board Meeting Minutes
Pequaywan Fire Hall
8764 Pequaywan Lake Road
Duluth MN, 55803

The meeting was called to order at 7:02 p.m. by Charles Kuettel

Attendance
Officers: Supervisor Charles Kuettel, supervisor Doug Dressen, clerk Amber Cruz, treasurer Carol Nelson (via teleconference), deputy treasurer Ed Potter, deputy clerk Diana Potter
Guests: Richard Arndt, Raymond Barnes, Deb Pomroy, Daryl Waldriff

Clerk’s Report
The April 12, 2022 Township Board Meeting Minutes for approval. A motion to approve the minutes was provided by Dressen. The motion passed 2-0-0

Treasurer’s Report
April 2022
Total Funds on hand as of 04/01/2022 (Includes Investments)                                  $188,417.18
Plus: Deposits                                                                                                 $65.86
Interest on Accounts                                                      $65.86
Less: Disbursements                                                                                       $2,361.39
Payroll                                                                            $2,075.31
Other Expenses                                                              $286.08
Total Funds on hand as of 04/30/2022
April checks written #1769-1779

May 2022
Deposits – $0
Disbursements – $1,927.84
Checks written #1780-1788
No transfers to the Checking Account will be needed

A motion to accept the report was provided by Dressen. The motion passed 2-0-0

Old Business

• Update on West Branch Road: There are numerous small repairs that are needed. The Township will seek bids on the road repairs.
• Township Land update: There is a concern of access to the trail head. Dressen proposed the making of a 5ft path from the parking area to the trail head. This will be relooked at the next monthly board meeting to be held in June.

New Business

• A motion was provided by Dressen to add Diana Potter to the Township bank accounts. The motion passed 2-0-0
• The Census Bureau survey will be completed and submitted by Kuettel

Correspondence
Received

• Email from Katherine Brey containing the 2022 assessment book
• Email from Minnesota Association of Townships on registering for Town Law Review Training
• Email from Jonathan Blevins of St Louis County on the extension of the deadlines in VEGA-3 Contracts
• Email from Marylin Nelson of the St Louis County Auditor on the filing notice for the 2022 State General Elections
• Email from Marylin Nelson of the St Louis County Auditor on the AutoMark machine required maintenance
• Email from Minnesota Association of Townships with the April Newsletter
• Email from the Minnesota Association of Townships on the upcoming demonstration on ARPA reporting
• Email from Minnesota Association of Townships with a reminder: town law review training- agenda/speakers
• Email from Minnesota Association of Townships with a reminder of the demonstration on ARPA funding
• Emai from Michelle Claviter-Tveit of St Louis County with email for the upcoming Board of Adjustment hearing for a variance application from Allan Hanson
• Email from Holly Olson of St Louis County containing forwarded information from the county on flood damage due to rain and snow melt
• Email from Jonathan Blevins of St Louis County with an amended filing notice for the 2022 State General Elections
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace in the amount of $14.50 for website maintenance
• Email from Joel Odell of St Louis County Assessor’s asking the clerk to contact him to discuss the LBEA meeting
• Email from Marylin Nelson of St Louis County on the AutoMark machine being ready for pickup
• Email from Cathy Rouleau of St Louis County with information on the Annual Meeting and Reservations for Dinner
• Letter from the IRS stating that the township account was reviewed and a refund of $6.95 is being processed.
• Letter from the U.S. Census Bureau about the 2022 Census of Governments, Survey of Public Employment and Payroll

Sent

• Phone call to Joel Odell of St Louis County to prep for the LBAE Meeting
• Letters to the registered voters of Pequaywan Township containing the Notice of Filing for the 2022 State General Elections

Public Comment
Pomroy offered to help with weed inspections. Informed the supervisors that the order for all township supervisors will be coming from the state in the near future.

Next Meeting

• Township Board Meeting June 14, 2022 starting at 7pm at the Pequaywan Fire Hall

 

A motion to adjourn the meeting was provided by Dressen. The motion passed 2-0-0.

Kuettel adjourned the meeting at 7:48 p.m.

 

Respectfully submitted by,
Amber Cruz, Clerk

April 12, 2022 Township Board Meeting Minutes

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

Attendance
Officers: supervisor Charles Kuettel, supervisor Douglas Dressen, supervisor Donald Swanstrom, clerk Amber Cruz, treasurer Carol Nelson and deputy treasurer Ed Potter
Guests: Diana Potter and Richard Arndt

Clerk’s Report
The March 8, 2022 Township Board Meeting Minutes for approval. A motion to approve the minutes was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0.
The Board of Canvass 2022 minutes for approval. A motion to approve the minutes was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

Treasurer’s Report
March 2022
Total Funds on hand as of 03/01/2022 (Includes Investments)                                  $188,195.99
Plus: Deposits                                                                                     $2,203.35
2021 St Louis County Forfeit Land Revenue    $2,154.83
Interest on Accounts                                          $48.52
Less: Disbursements                                                                           $1,982.16
Payroll                                                                $1,593.18
Other Expenses                                                  $388.98

Total Funds on hand as of 03/31/2022                                                                       $188,417.18
March Checks Written #1761-1768
Voided Check 1760 for Officers’ Insurance

April 2022
Deposits -$0
Claims -$2,361.39
Checks Written #1769-1779
No transfers to the Checking Account will be needed

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

 

Old Business

• Reminder that the LBAE meeting is scheduled for May 4, 2022 from 3pm to 4 pm at the Pequaywan Fire Hall
• Update on deputy treasurer and deputy clerk as well as the spring training.

1. Ed Potter was sworn in 04/12/2022 for the position of deputy treasurer
2. Diana Potter’s appointment to deputy clerk was given. A motion to approve appointment was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0. Diana Potter was sworn into office 04/12/2022
3. Motion to approve spring training for the clerk, deputy clerk, treasurer and deputy treasurer was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0.

• Update on the West Branch Road. The road will be inspected in the upcoming weeks by the supervisors. The supervisors will check on a camera to inspect the culverts. The Township will accept bids for culvert repairs. The dead/down trees will be addressed in the upcoming weeks.

New Business

• Elect supervisor chair and vice chair.
  Kuettel was nominated for chair. A motion approving the nomination was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0.
  Dressen was nominated for vice-chair. A motion approving the nomination was provided by Kuettel. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0.
• Review variance application for Allen Hanson.
  The Township has no objections to the variance application. A motion stating to no objections was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0. A notice of the Township’s position will be sent to St Louis County.
• Schedule future dates for the tree and brush drop off.
  The dates will be as follows: June 19, July 17 and August 27 from 10am to 2pm.
  The restrictions will be as follows: the maximum diameter is 10 inches or less. The branches must be delimbed/separated from the trunk. No rotting/decayed wood allowed.
• Township trail and land use:
  The Township will be accepting bids for extending the driveway/parking area of the Township land. For his help in maintaining the trail on the township land, the Township will be giving Paul Klaussen a gift card of $100. A motion to approve the gift card was given by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0.

Correspondence
Received

• Email from Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) with information on the Spring Short Courses
• Email from John Blevins of St Louis County Elections on the return of election materials
• Email from Lora Skarman of St Louis County Assessor’s Office with materials for the LBAE meeting to be held in May
• Email from MAT with an advocacy alert for townships
• Email from Amy Sanda of DOT with Municipal Mapping Status Report
• Email from MAT with the March 2022 Newsletter
• Email from Cathy Rouleau of St Louis County Association of Townships containing the March 23^rd Agenda and minutes from February 23^rd
• Email from MAT with Cyber Security Survey for Township Officers
• Email from MAT About and email from U.S. Treasury Dept. not being a scam
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace for $162.88 for website maintenance and yearly website fee
• Email from Michelle Claviter-Tveit of St Louis County Planning and Community Development about a Variance hearing May 12, 2022 for a Pequaywan resident
• Email from John Blevins of St Louis County Elections with a reminder that the Automark machine is required to have maintenance
• Email from MAT that there is going to be 4-corners training for clerks and treasurers

Sent

• Package sent to St Louis County Elections Department containing the election materials and results.

Public Comment

No public comment at this time

Next Meeting

• LBAE meeting May 4, 2022 from 3pm-4pm at the Pequaywan Fire Hall
• Township Board Meeting May 10, 2022 starting at 7pm at the Pequaywan Fire Hall

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

The meeting was adjourned at 7:51pm by Kuettel

Respectfully submitted by,
Amber Cruz, clerk

2022 Board of Canvass

Meeting was called to order at 9:33 p.m. by Chair Charles Kuettel.

Attendance:
Officers: Supervisor Charles Kuettel, Supervisor Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor Douglas Dressen, clerk Amber Cruz and treasurer Carol Nelson
Guests: Mark Freeman, Bonnie Dressen and Scott Gronseth

The Town of Pequaywan Canvassing Board certified the following official results for the March 8, 2022 Town Election:

Douglas Dressen was elected for the Supervisor position with term date of 2022-2025.

The Town of Pequaywan Canvassing Board consisted of:

Charles Kuettel, Chair
Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor
Douglas Dressen, Supervisor

Meeting was motioned to adjourn at 9:34 p.m. by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried 3-0-0.

Respectfully submitted by:
Amber Cruz, clerk

 

March 8, 2022 Township Board Meeting

The meeting was called to order at 9:09 p.m. by Charles Kuettel

Attendance
Officers: Supervisor Charles Kuettel, supervisor Donald Swanstrom, supervisor Douglas Dressen, clerk Amber Cruz and treasurer Carol Nelson
Guests: Scott Gronseth, Mark Freeman and Bonnie Dressen

Clerk’s Report
The February 2, 2022 Township Board Meeting Minutes for approval. Motion to accept the minutes was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0.

Treasurer’s Report
February 2022
Total Funds on hand as of 02/01/2022 (Includes Investments)                      $185,239.87
Plus: Deposits                                                                                     $5,358.97
2021 St Louis County Town Aid                                $2,223.96
2021 St Louis County Taconite Production               $3,070.00
Interest on Accounts                                                   $65.01
Less: Disbursements                                                                           $2,402.85
Payroll                                                                         $327.98
Other Expenses                                                           $465.04
MATIT Commercial Insurance                                  $973.00
St Louis County Township- Dues                              $478.38
MAT Training Registration                                        $90.00
St Louis County- Proposed tax notice                        $68.45
Total Funds on hand as of 02/28/2022                                                           $188,195.99
February checks written #1751-1759

March 2022
Deposits – $0
Claims    – $2,147.16
Checks written #1760-1768
NO transfers to the Checking Account will be needed

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

Old Business

• Upcoming LBAE ( local board of appeal and equalization meeting. The LBAE meeting is scheduled for May 4, 2022 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. located at the Pequaywan Fire Hall.
• Results of the township election. Supervisor Douglas Dressen has been re-elected for another term.
• Update on training, new board members and election judges.

1. Douglas Nelson completed the training/certification to be an election judge
2. Ed Potter has been appointed to deputy treasurer. He will start his training tentatively in April. A motion of Potter’s appointment was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0
3. The following training is scheduled through Minnesota Association of Townships:
   – March 15 from 8am to 5 pm for Supervisors
   – March 16 from 8am to 12 pm for treasurer/clerk

New Business

• 2023 Levy was accepted at the Annual Town Meeting. A motion to accept was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0
• Resolution to accept precinct boundaries. A motion to accept the precinct boundaries and create a resolution was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0
• Insurance policies for board members. A motion to cancel the insurance policies was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

Correspondence
Received

• Email from Kristin Fogard of St Louis County Land and Minerals Department on February Weed of the Month: 2021 New County Finds of Prohibited Eradicate Noxious Weeds
• Email from Lora Skarman of St Louis County Assessor’s Office with the tentative LBEA meeting schedule
• Email from Cathy Rouleau of St Louis County Association of Townships (SLCAT) containing the SCLAT minutes for the February 23, 2022 meeting
• Email from the US Census Bureau with a reminder of the March 1, 2022 deadline for the 2022 Boundary and Annexation Survey
• Email from the Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) with a reminder to RSVP today for MAT District 1 Township Lobby Day on March 24
• Email from the MAT containing the February 2022 newsletter
• Email from the Minnesota Benefit Association with a reminder of the April 1, 2022 deadline for the Township Group Life and Disability Program
• Email from Phil Chapman of St Louis County with redistricting reminders
• Email from John Blevins of St Louis County Elections Department with township rosters for the election
• Forwarded email from Phil Chapman of St Louis County with the VEGA-3 Grant Award Process update
• Email from Diasy Wallace containing a notice of the annual subscription fee for the township website coming due
• Email from Steve Nelson St Louis County Planning and Community Development with a notice of funding available for covid related projects
• Email from John Blevins of St Louis County Elections with a election day reminder
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace in the amount of $46.75 for website maintenance
• Email from MAT with clarification on email received from MMB on ARPA
• Email from Lora Skarman of St Louis County Assessor’s Office containing 2022 Local Board of Appeals and Equalization materials
• Email from Angela Lepak of St Louis County Planning and Community Development with the St Louis County DRAFT subdivision ordinance amendments
• Email from Bonnie Dressen confirming ability to be an election judge March 8, 2022
• Email from John Blevins of St Louis County Elections with a final reminder of March township election returns
• Email from Carol Nelson that her husband Doug Nelson has completed training to be an election judge and will be helping March 8, 2022
• Package from Nancy Nilsen St Louis County Auditor containing the township election roster

Sent

• Email to St Louis county pertaining to the election and ballots
• Email to Bonnie Dressen asking for election judge help
• Email to Carol Nelson with election judge training information for Doug Nelson
• Email to Carol Nelson confirming the election judge times for Doug Nelson

Public Comment

No public comment at this time

Next Meeting

The April Township Board Meeting is April 12, 2022 at 7 pm. at the Pequaywan Fire Hall.

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

The meeting was adjourned at 9:26 pm by Kuettel

Respectfully submitted by,
Amber Cruz, clerk

March 8, 2022 Annual Town Meeting

Meeting called to order: Town clerk Amber Cruz called the meeting to order at 8:30 p.m. The meeting was held at the Pequaywan Fire Hall.

Attendance: Amber Cruz, Carol Nelson, Bonnie Dressen, Doug Dressen, Charles Kuettel, Donald Swanstrom, Scott Gronseth, Mark Freeman, Thomas Getchel

Election of a moderator Mark Freeman was nominated and elected as the moderator

Announce the Agenda for the Rest of Meeting (moderator, subject to modification by vote of electorate): No change

Review and approve 2021 Annual Meeting minutes (clerk): Motion to approve minutes of the 2021 Annual Meeting Minutes (copies provided by the clerk): Charles Kuettel motion to approve the 2021 Annual Meeting Minutes. The motion was seconded by Carol Nelson. All were in favor, the motion carried

Reading of Board of Audit Report as posted prior to meeting (clerk)

Annual Board of Appeals and Equalization
scheduled on May 4, 2022, 3:00-4:00 p.m. at the Pequaywan Fire Hall

Results of Township Election Cruz reported that there is one supervisor position open for election. Out of 145 registered voters, 18 were received. Doug Dressen was elected with 17 votes

Road Report for West Branch Road Chair Charles Kuettel reported that the culvert remains a big concern and will need to be replaced in the near future. On going maintenance has been performed on the road. The dead/dying trees along the road remain a concern. Landlords were contacted and some refused to address the trees. The township will look into options to address the trees over the next year.

Update, Suggestions and discussion The fire department has found that the repair of the roof is estimated to be less expensive than initially thought. The fire department would like the township’s help with the roof repair as well as with some general maintenance

2023 Levy: Discussion and motion to approve general levy and any dedicated levies (road & bridge, plus others determined helpful to treat as designated and not just a budget item Pequaywan Fire & EMS in the amount of $18,000.00. A motion to approve the levy was provided by Mark Freeman. The motion was seconded by Charles Kuettel. All were in favor, the motion carried.

SUMMARY	2023 LEVY	2023 BUDGET
General Fund	$35,000.00	$35,000.00
Road and Bridges (On-going Maintenance)	$2,000.00	$2,000.00
Building/Property Maintenance Fund	$2,000.00	$2,000.00
Fire and EMS	$18,000.00	$18,000.00
Roads and Bridges (Capital Reserve)	$2,000.00	$2,000.00
Total	$59,000.00	$59,000.00

  Other years’ financials

 

SUMMARY	2022 LEVY	2022 BUDGET
General Fund	$18,000.00	$18,060.00
Road and Bridges (On-going Maintenance)	$3,600.00	$3,500.00
Fire and EMS	$16,500.00	$16,500.00
Building/Property Maintenance Fund	$2,000.00	$2,000.00
Roads and Bridges (Capital Reserve)	$15,000.00	$15,000.00
Total	$55,100.00	$55,060.00

 

SUMMARY 2021	2021 LEVY	2021 BUDGET	2021 RECEIPTS	2021 DISBURSEMENTS	Ending Balance
General Fund	$  12,000.00	$15,500.00	$23,892.74	$20,797.99	$13,639.17
Road and Bridge (On-going Maintenance	$3,000.00	$ 3,000.00	$ 4,484.12	$ 3,233.91	$9,200.32
Fire and EMS	$16,500.00	$16,500.00	$16,501.28	$16,500.00	$21,516.08
Building/Property Maintenance Fund	$0.00	$1,500.00	$0.00	$0.00	$1,500.00
Roads and Bridges (Capital Reserve)	$12,000.00	$10,000.00	$14,797.81	$0.00	$156,402.96
Total	$43,500.00	$49,500.00	$59,675.95	$40,531.90	$202,258.53

 

2023Annual Town Meeting: the state set the Annual Town Meeting on the second Tuesday of March following the Township Election. The Annual Town Meeting will be held at the Pequaywan Fire Hall.

Motion to set monthly Town Board Meeting date and time: Carol Nelson motioned to set the Town Board meeting on the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at the Pequaywan Fire Hall. The motion was seconded by Doug Dressen. All were in favor, the motion carried. Exception of March Meeting to be scheduled after the Annual Town Meeting

Motion to set Voting place Charles Kuettel motioned to set Pequaywan Fire Hall as the primary voting place. The motion was seconded by Donald Swanstrom. All were in favor, the motion carried.

Motion to set voting times
7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., Presidential Nomination Primary Election, Primary Election and General Election
7:00 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. – 8:00p.m., Township Election

Mark Freeman motioned to set the voting times as listed. The motion was seconded by Donald Swanstrom. All were in favor, the motion carried.

Posting areas

-Pequaywan Township website: pequaywantownship.org
-Pequaywan Fire & EMS bulletin board
– Pequaywan Inn Bulletin Board

A motion to set the posting locations was provided by Mark Freeman. The motion was seconded by Charles Kuettel. All were in favor, the motion carried.

General Discussion of Items of Concern

Donald Swanstrom brought up the idea of creating a ride share program. The township is tabling the idea until the 2023 Annual Meeting to allow Swanstrom to gather more information.

Adjourn Mark Freeman motioned to adjourn the Annual Town Meeting at 9:07 p.m. The motion was seconded by Scott Gronseth. All were in favor, motion carried

Respectfully submitted by,
Amber Cruz, clerk

February 8, 2022 Township Meeting Minutes

The meeting was called to order at 7:34 p.m. by Charles Kuettel

Attendance
Officers: Supervisor Charles Kuettel, supervisor Donald Swanstrom, supervisor Douglas Dressen, clerk Amber Cruz, and treasurer Carol Nelson
Guests: Dale Brooks

Clerk’s Report
The January 11, 2022 Township Board Meeting Minutes for approval. Motion to accept the minutes was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

The Board of Audit Minutes for approval. Motion to accept the minutes was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

The Budget Meeting Minutes for approval. Motion to accept the minutes was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

Treasurer’s Report
January 2022
Total Funds on hand as of 01/01/2022 (Includes Investments)                      $202,258.53
Plus Deposits:                                                                         $1,038.62
Dec 21 Tax Apportionment                $972.45
Interest on Accounts                           $66..17
Less Disbursements:                                                               $18,057.28
Payroll                                                 $193.28
Fire & EMS                                        $16,500.00
Other Expenses                                   $230.94
MATIT WC Insurance                        $265.00
4^th QRT 941                                        $868.06
Total Funds on hand as of 01/31/2022                                                           $185,239.87
January Checks # 1744 – 1750

February 2022
Deposits (February) – $0
Claims (February) – $2,402.85
February Check # 1751 – 1759

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

Old Business

• Update on the township open positions:

1. There is no update on the deputy clerk position or the election judge position
2. For the deputy treasurer position, Ed Potter was nominated by Nelson to become the new deputy treasurer. A motion to accept the nomination was provided by Dressen. The motion was seconded by Swanstrom, the motion carried 3-0-0

• Update on the township website: The dates for upcoming meetings need to be double checked
• Upcoming meetings: The Annual Township Meeting, Board of Canvass and the March Township Board meeting will be held at the firehall.
• Upcoming training for all officers: the Spring short-courses are in April

New Business

• Minnesota Benefit Association letter regarding officers’ benefits: the clerk is to send an updated officer list
• Fire Department: The fire department had a meeting where they discussed the replacement/repair of the firehall’s roof. John Luca gave an estimate of $45,000.00 for repairs/replacement for this summer. The fire department is waiting to hear back from other companies on estimates. The fire department is asking the Township to pay for half the cost of the replacement/repair. The township will give what they can this year and give the rest in 2023.

Correspondence
Received

• Email from the St Louis County Elections department with clarification to the clerk inquiry on filing for candidacy
• Email from the US Census Bureau on the 2022 Boundary and Annexation Survey (BAS)
• Email from Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) with the Invitation: Legislative & Research Committee Meeting February 24, 2022 Details and Registration
• Email from Yvonne McCauley of St Louis County Auditor with the Annual Report of Outstanding Indebtedness form
• Forwarded email from Lora Skarman of St Louis County Assessor’s Office on the Minnesota Department of Revenue Board of Appeal and Equalization Information update
• Email from Cathy Rouleau of St Louis County Association of Townships (SCLAT) containing the minutes from 12/01/2021, resolutions to vote on January 26, 2022, and dues statement of 2022
• Email from Nicholas Alexander, the owner of the Pequaywan Inn, about what board the township can use
• Email from John Blevins of St Louis County Elections department containing the March 2022 Master list
• Email from Lora Skarman of St Lousi County Assessor’s Office with a reminder about the Board of Appeal and Equalization
• Email from MAT containing a reminder invitation to the legislative and research committee meeting on February 24, 2022
• Email from Minnesota Benefit Association containing the invoice from Minnesota Benefit Association for GRP# 2397 – Pequaywan Lakes Township
• Email from MAT containing the January 2022 newsletter
• Forwarded email from Holly Olson of the St Louis County Sheriff’s Office containing the Local Community CWPP Planning Request Letter
• Email from the Office of the State Auditor with the notice that the 2022 CTAS is now available through SAFES
• Email from Kristin Anderson of the Louis County Commissioner on the Competitive Infrastructure Funding Opportunities for Local Governments fact sheet
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace for website administration in the amount of $27.00
• Email from Lora Skarman of St Louis County Assessor’s Office with the Board of Appeal and Equalization Trained Member Rosters
• Email from Alex Pendergast of MAT with registration confirmations for training for the clerk and treasurer
• Email from John Blevins of St Louis County Elections Department with a reminder of the Absentee Ballot voting
• Email from Minnesota Benefit Association with information regarding the Group Life and Group Disability Income program for MN Township Officers
• Letter from the US Census Bureau about conducting the Boundary and Annexation Survey (BAS)
• Invoice for $68.45 from St Louis County Auditor’s Office for services completed for Proposed Tax Notice preparation and delivery.
• Invoice for $90.00 from Minnesota Association of Townships for Training in February
• Packet from Minnesota Association of Townships’ Insurance department containing information on the Consolidated Liability Coverage

Sent

• Updated officer list to Minnesota Association of Townships
• Updated officer list to St Louis County Association of Townships

Public Comment
There was no public comment

Next Meeting
The Annual Meeting is March 8, 2022 at 8:30 pm
The March Township Board Meeting is March 8, 2022 at 9 p.m. followed by the Board of Canvass at 9:15 p.m.

All meetings will be held at the Pequaywan Firehall

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

The meeting was adjourned at 8:09 p.m. by Kuettel

Respectfully submitted by,
Amber Cruz, clerk