Category: Minutes

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

Attendance:

Officers Present: Chair Douglas Nelson, Vice-Chair Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor James Wilson, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson, Deputy Treasurer Raymond Barnes, Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp.

Guests: Bonnie Dressen, Doug Dressen, Ted Wallace, Charles Kuettel

Clerk’s Report

Wallace presented the October 2025 minutes. Chair requested a few typographical error on the road report (plan to plant on section 4, life to lift on section 7). Swanstrom motioned to approve the minutes, Wilson seconded, motion carried. Swanstrom yay, Nelson yay, Wilson yay. Wallace presented the minutes from the Special Meeting on Subordinate District from October. Motion to approve by Swanstrom, Wilson second, motion carried. Swanstrom yay, Wilson yay, Nelson yay.

Treasurer’s Report

OCTOBER 2025
Total Funds on Hand 10/1/2025 $269,564.38
Plus: Deposits $48,074.79
Pequaywan Fire & EMS Radio Grant reimbursement 47,959.23
Interest 115.56

Less: Disbursements $12,179.26
Payroll 136.40
941 Taxes 1,001.24
Pequaywan Fire & EMS 9,975.83
Nelson Forestry – mow ditches 750.00
Other expenses 315.79

Total Funds on Hand 10/31/2025 $305,459.91
Checks Written 2192-2199

NOV 2025
Expected Receipts None
Checks Written 2202-2206 $6,300.75
No transfer to checking needed

Nelson motion to approve, Wilson second, motion approved. Swanstrom yay, Nelson yay, Wilson yay.

Old Business

• West Brach Road had the ditches mowed and the snow plow contract has been signed at the same cost as year prior with the County. KGM Contractors, a heavy highway contractor out of Cook, MN plans to walk the road with the board supervisors to obtain more information and recommendations on next steps.
• Approval for web admin to start researching information for domain conversion from .org to .gov with deadline date of June 2026 and decide on the target date for implementation. Nelson motion to approve, Wilson seconded, motion carried. Swanstrom yay, Nelson yay, Wilson yay.
• In the absence of Deborah Pomroy, Weed Inspector for the township, Barnes reported that the inspector has been out but has had a slow start due to items outside their control but to expect a report and an invoice next month.

New Business

• Clerk inquired about township opening a credit card for annual township charges instead of using personal credit cards of employees, i.e. Microsoft 365 Family annual subscription ($129.99 plus tax) and Go Daddy Web Domain Renewal every two years – $72.32. After further discussion including how neighboring township handles credit cards it was determined the treasurer will pay for these items on her credit card and seek reimbursement.

Correspondence

Received:

• Invite from St. Louis County Public Works Department for townships to be a part of the process in developing St. Louis County’s Safety Action Plan (outside of the Duluth metro area). Doug Dressen volunteered to attend and after board agreed, clerk will forward information on the date and time of meeting which is via the internet.
• Invoice from Duluth News Tribune in the amount of $166.04 for publication of Resolution to Establish a Subordinate Service District.
• Invoice from Web Admin Daisy Wallace in the amount of $37.50.

Sent:

• Resolution to Establish a Subordinate Service District was published in Duluth News Tribune on October 29, 2025

Public Comment:

None

Next Meeting: December 9, 2025, 7:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall

Motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:17 pm by Swanstrom, second by Wilson, motion carried. Swanstrom yay, Wilson yay, Nelson yay.

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

Meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Chair Nelson. Note: Meeting was originally scheduled to start at 8:30. However, since the Town Board Meeting ended at 7:26, Chair Nelson asked the residents present if the Special Meeting can be started at 7:30. Everyone present agreed. Jim Empey and Arlene Schierenbeck arrived at 8:30 for the meeting. Chair Nelson was present to talk with them and review what occurred at the 7:30 meeting.

Attendance:

Officers Present: Chair Douglas Nelson, Vice-Chair Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor James Wilson, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson, Deputy Treasurer Raymond Barnes

Officer Absent: Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp

Guests: Bonnie Dressen, Doug Dressen, Dale Gauthier, Lori Gherna, Al Hanson, Peggy Hanson, Stephen Jones, Jennifer Ludgate, Mike Nilsen, Nancy Nilsen, Ed Potter, Kathy Sykes, Tom Sykes, Brian Von Arb, Carmi Von Arb, Ted Wallace

Nelson started with the history and why the Subordinate Service District (SSD) has to be established and the time and work that Wilson and himself have put in since January of this year. A letter was sent to all West Branch Road landowners in January. In February/March, they received 10-15% response. With concerted effort, both of them knocked door to door to talk with landowners. The response was positive. By September, they were able to collect more than the required 50% signature. Only five expressed that they are not in favor.

Landowners who disagree have 60 days after the date it is published to submit a reverse referendum signed by at least 25% of the landowners in the district. If a Reverse Referendum is  presented to the Town board, the next step would be to hold a special election of landowners in the SSD, In the absence of a Reverse Referendum, the Resolution (see below) will become official at the expiration of the 60 days. Nelson read the Resolution to Establish a Subordinate Service District (see below). Nelson motion to approve the Resolution, Wilson second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.

It is a township road so everybody in the township will pay for the road. However, landowners in West Branch Road will pay extra – about $30,000 total a year for all SSD landowners until the total cost is paid for. It will not be until 2027 before taxes in the SSD will be taken as July 2025 was the deadline for submission which we did not meet.

Resolution to Establish a Subordinate Service District

In accordance with Minnesota Statutes §365A,02 and §365A.08, Pequaywan Township hereby establishes a Subordinate Service District to include all landowners using the Township portion of the West Branch Road to access their property. This includes all landowners starting with Fire #8895 through the end of the road at Fire #9434. The Subordinate Service District will be established to help finance the replacement of the current blacktop road by adding to the Township Road & Bridge Fund until the new pavement and repairs have been completed and paid for. There will be an annual service charge totaling $30,000.00 added to the landowner’s taxes based on their current property values as established by St. Louis County Auditor’s Office.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Clerk

 

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

Attendance:

Officers Present: Chair Douglas Nelson, Vice-Chair Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor James Wilson, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson, Deputy Treasurer Raymond Barnes

Officer Absent: Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp

Guests: Bonnie Dressen, Doug Dressen, Dale Gauthier, Lori Gherna, Al Hanson, Peggy Hanson, Stephen Jones, Jennifer Ludgate, Mike Nilsen, Nancy Nilsen, Ed Potter, Kathy Sykes, Tom Sykes, Brian Von Arb, Carmi Von Arb, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report

Wallace presented the September 2025 minutes. Wilson motioned to approve the minutes, Nelson seconded, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay. Swanstrom was a few minutes late so he was not able to vote.

Treasurer’s Report

SEPTEMBER 2025
Total Funds on Hand 9/1/2025 $270,198.97
Plus: Deposits $1,213.98
SLC – payment in lieu of taxes 35.19
Interest 1,178.79

Less: Disbursements $1,848.57
Payroll 874.75
Motorola – Radio batteries 617.10
Mowing of trail 200.00
Other expenses 156.72

Total Funds on Hand 9/30/2025 $269,564.38
Checks Written 2181-2191

OCT 2025

Expected Receipts
Fire Dept Radio Grant $47,959.23
Checks Written 2192-2198 $11,429.26
No transfer to checking needed

Nelson motioned to approve the minutes, Wilson seconded, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay.

Treasurer Nelson reported that we have $82,000.00 in the checking account and propose to purchase a new CD in the amount of $70,000.00 for five months maturity. Nelson motion to approve, Wilson second, motion carried.  Nelson yay, Wilson yay. After further discussion, Nelson motion to amend the maturity to 13 months, Wilson second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay.

Old Business

• Meeting with Steve Krasaway, the County Engineer, about the West Branch Road – update report by Chair Nelson: On Tuesday, September 23. Jim Wilson and I met with Steve Krasaway, St. Louis County engineer in charge of our area. The meeting was very productive with the following advice:

1. We asked about the need to hire an engineer to create the plan to replace the road. He said it would be expensive at probably over $40,000.00. They do not hire an engineer when they replace roads as much is learned as they remove the old blacktop and have contingent funds to take care of problem areas. He did say it would cost about $10,000.00 to have a plan created for bidding purposes without all the core samples and other data, He said he will get us a contract to do this work.
2. It would be the most cost effective to do the whole road at one time instead of breaking it up into 2 or 3 phases.
3. Best case would be if we could piggyback onto their replacement of Pequaywan Lake Road Hwy 44 next year as they would help with the design, etc. This is scheduled for 2026 and they have not yet let it out for bids.
4. They will have a batch plant in the area to make the blacktop saving thousands of dollars. They currently pay $55.00 per ton. If we have to have it trucked in from Northland or Uland Bros, it will probably cost us $75.00 per ton.
5. When removing the old blacktop there are two choices. They can grind it up and load it into trucks for proper recycling or they grind it up and leave it on the road for the new roadbed. It makes great roadbed material. Better than class 5 gravel. Problem is it raises the height of the road and affects people’s driveways. We can also collect the old blacktop and use it in low areas with poor base materials.
6. Water is the number one enemy of blacktop. We should do what we can to keep water off the roadway. They slope the shoulders away at 24” along both sides. Our problem again is this change the heights of driveways and if we were to start excavating along our road, we have utilities in those areas that would have to be replaced.
7. The question of how thick the blacktop should be was interesting. Normal work is a double lift (2 layers) at about 3.5” thick. The thickness of the blacktop does not directly affect the longevity of the road. It’s all in the gravel bed that is properly installed. If a poor roadbed, the blacktop will deteriorate.
8. We asked about proper maintenance and Steve said fill the cracks every year. You must stop moisture from getting under the blacktop.
9. Asked about saving the patch areas we have recently done. He said, don’t bother as it’s not cost effective to start and stop.
10. We toured the road and looked at the culverts and drainage.
11. This is why we need a detailed plan of what we are going to do.
12. Steve volunteered to help and even come to Township meeting to answer questions.

• Status of plowing contract: there is no update
• Brush disposal day on October 4 (Wilson): The day went pretty well. There were 20 loads. Thank you to those that helped.
• Revise bid to fill pot holes on West Branch Road (Wilson): Proposing to revise the $2,000.00 approved last month. Premier Company can do the job for $4,800.00. Wilson motion to amend the amount and hire Premier Company for $4,800.00, second by Swanstrom, motion carried. Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay, Nelson yay.

New Business

• Bid to mow shoulders along West Branch Road: Wilson motion to hire someone to do the job for $750.00, second by Swanstrom, motion carried. Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay, Nelson abstain as he is related to the individual who will be working on the project.
• Mediacom meeting update (Wilson): Mediacom folks are very positive that the grant will pass and will be announced in December. Folks who attended the meeting suggested that we should request more cards for those not able to attend.
• Request by Rod Saline of North Star Township to pay half the cost of the banner signs used to promote the event: Nelson motion to approve $179.00 for half the cost of the banner signs, Swanstrom second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Swanstrom yay, Wilson yay.

Correspondence

Received:

• Invoice from Daisy Wallace for September web maintenance in the amount of $25.00.
• Letter from National Bank of Commerce that the Time Certificate in the amount of $31,462.70 matures on October 12, 2025 and will renew if not redeemed. 

Sent: None

Public Comment Request: None

Next Meeting, November 11, 2025, 7:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall

Wilson motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:25 p.m., second by Swanstrom, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.

Respectfully submitted by:
Lita Wallace, Clerk

The meeting was called to order at 6:59 p.m. by Chair Douglas Nelson.

Attendance:

Officers Present: Chair Douglas Nelson, Vice-Chair Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor James Wilson, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson, Deputy Treasurer Raymond Barnes

Officer Absent: Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp

Guests: Bonnie Dressen, Doug Dressen, Al Hanson, Peggy Hanson, Stephanie Jones, Stephen Jones, Charles Kuettel, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report

Wallace presented the August 2025 minutes. Swanstrom motion to approve the minutes, Wilson second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.

Treasurer’s Report

AUGUST 2025

Total Funds on Hand 8/1/2025 $260,239.39
Plus: Deposits $10,982.08
SLC – payment in lieu of taxes 5,882.23
SLC – Taconite production 4,061.00
Interest 1,038.85

Less: Disbursements $1,022.50
Payroll 161.46
MAT dues 313.84
SLC – voting license 235.00
Other expenses 312.20

Total Funds on Hand 8/30/2025 $270,198.97
Checks Written 2176-2180
SEPT 2025
Expected Receipts None
Checks Written 2181-2191 $1,848.57
No transfer to checking needed

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

Old Business

• Update on Subordinate Service District (SSD) progress for West Branch Road: Nelson and Wilson knocked door to door to acquire the required signatures for a petition from residents to establish an SSD. As required, Wallace verified that the petition is signed by landowners within the proposed SSD area and that the more than 50% requirement was met. The Board then scheduled a public hearing (October 14 after the Town Board Meeting), published in the Duluth News Tribune and other posting places. Once the establishment of an SSD has been approved and a resolution passed, landowners who disagree has 60 days to submit a reverse referendum signed by at least 25% of the landowners in the district. Upon receipt of a reverse referendum, the Township board will schedule an election for members in the SSD to make a final decision.The Auditor’s Office will calculate the property tax based on property value. It will be 2027 before they will see increase in their taxes.
• Special Meeting for a petition from property owners to establish a Subordinate Service District (SSD) has been moved to October 14 after the Town Board Meeting.
• Meeting with representatives of Mediacom will be held October 1 at 4:30 pm at Pequaywan Fire Hall update on Fiber optical cable internet: Mediacom is waiting for an approval of the federal grant which will be awarded in December. For now, Mediacom is interested to know how many people are interested. A link is provided on the flyer to fill out the online form.
• Planning for Pothole repairs on West Branch Road this fall: The Board is deciding whether to fill the potholes themselves or hire a company to do it. There was discussion on prices . A motion was made by Nelson and second by Wilson for $2000.00 to purchase materials in patching the holes by themselves.
• Results of Brush drop off day: Authorize purchase of another tarp to protect pile from snow before being burned: The Board thanks everyone who came and helped. Another tarp will be purchased in the amount of $100.00 to cover the brush.
• Update on snow plowing contract for 2025-2026 with St. Louis County, both Wallace and Nelson contacted Public Works and was told that the foreman has not submitted any additional requirements that needed to be done.

New Business

• Purchase of a brush mower to be used to clear along West Branch Road that is offset and towed with an ATV or tractor: The mower is a personal mower of Nelson which he is willing to have the township use.
• Local Road Improvement Program (LRIP) is open again for funding opportunity. Application due December 12, 2025.

Correspondence

Received:

• Email from St. Louis County Public Works that snow plow online application is open.
• Email from St. Louis County Auditor’s Office that the Levy blank form pay for 2026 is available on their website.
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace for August web maintenance in the amount of $25.00.
• Invoice from Duluth News Tribune in the amount of $67.52 for legal posting of Public Notice re-establishment of Subordinate Service District.
• Invoice from St. Louis County Elections for OmniBallot license charge

Sent:

• Snow plow renewal application form filled out online.
• Final levy form mailed to St. Louis County Auditor’s Office.
• Legal posting with Duluth News Tribune re-Subordinate Service District meeting on October 14, online form completed.

Public Comment Request:

Bonnie Dressen is interested in working on the Wake Boat issue.

Doug Dressen shared his concern about Wake Boats. Interested to have a video tape recording or Zoom meetings.

Next Meeting, October 14, 2025, 7:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall

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

Next Meeting, October 12, 2025, 7:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall

Respectfully submitted by:
Lita Wallace, Clerk

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

Attendance:

Officers Present: Chair Douglas Nelson, Vice-Chair Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor Jim Wilson, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson, Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp

Officer Absent: Deputy Treasurer Ray Barnes

Guests: Bonnie Dressen, Douglas Dressen, Stephanie Jones, Stephen Jones, Charles Kuettel, Ted Wallace, Lori Gherna

Clerk’s Report: Wallace presented the July minutes. Swanstrom motioned to approve the minutes, Nelson seconded, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.

Treasurer’s Report:

July 2025

Total Funds on Hand 7/1/2025 $275,348.39
Plus: Deposits $37,680.11
SLC Appropriations 35,740.35
State of MN – Town Aid 779.00
Interest on Accounts 1,571.40
Donations 1,000.00
Interest 1.63
US Treasury – FICA Tax Refumd 159.13

Less: Disbursements $52,789.11
Payroll 293.15
Legal 180.00
941 Federal Taxes 1,297.06
Motorola Solutions 49,866.30
MATIT General Insurance 1,004.00
Other expenses 148.60

Total Funds on Hand 7/31/2025 $260,239.39
Checks Written 2167-2175

AUGUST 2025
Expected Receipts MN DNR PILT $5,882.23
SLC Taconite Production
Checks Written 2176-2180 $1,022.50

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

Old Business

• Update on Subordinate Service District: Nelson stated that they have collected over 50% of signatures required to increase levy by $30,000 per year by the residents along the road and this will continue until the road is completely repaved. Going forward the list of signatures will be verified by clerk and then a public notice will be published for a public hearing to occur. The plan is to have the public hearing immediately after the September board meeting. The town board will have to vote to accept the Service District and if approved, will have to wait 60 days for objections. If no formal objections are completed the Service District would become legal. The cut off to levy for 2026 taxes is July 1^st so the next deadline will be July 1, 2026 for collection in 2027 tax.
• Community Donation Program (Jim Wilson): There is now a page on the website acknowledging donations and a process to donate for those who wish. We don’t have a way of knowing who gives to the Fire Department but will work with the Department to see if they can share that information for donors over $500.
• State grant to improve parks and trails (Carol Nelson): Carol researched this grant and found that townships are not eligible as only available for county and cities. A different option does exist which recommends funding for environmental protection. In 2026 they gave funds of $103 million to over 100 projects. This is an option that could be reviewed in the future.

New Business

• Public hearing of proposed Subordinate Service District (SSD): Hearing date September 9^thfollowing regular board meeting.
• Phishing scheme exposing our contact information: Clerk stated that information has been exposed of town officers’ contact information. Chair Nelson intends to follow up on an article from the township insider referencing potential federal assistance on cyber security.
• Signage on corner of West Branch Road and Pequaywan Lake Road: Jim Wilson mows the area on a volunteer basis and removes the signs in the area to do the mowing and then historically places them back after completing. Wilson contacted St. Louis County and also read the ordinance that states no signage is allowed in the right of way. Any signage in the right of way will be removed as the abutting property owner has requested no signage be placed in this area as per the ordinance.

Correspondence

Received:

• 2025 Election Manual from St. Louis County Elections
• Invitation from St. Louis County Public Works Department to townships to join the newly developed Safety Action Plan (SAP) with the aim of reducing and ultimately eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries on the county road system.
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace for July web maintenance and special project to develop a new web page for the community donation fund in the amount of $250.00.
• 2025 membership Dues Statement from Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) in the amount of $313.84.
• Email from St. Louis County Public Works Department that township application for renewal for the upcoming snow plowing application is now available and must be received by September 15, 2025 at 11:59 p.m.

Sent:

• Snow plow online application for 10/1/2025-05/01/2026 season submitted and received by St. Louis County Public Works Department on August 11, 2025

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.

• Douglas Dressen: Stated the Town Board is required to follow letting process as they plan to repair the road. Prior meeting records show Pequaywan Lakes Association was assigned responsibility of the town land in Rossini Road. Dressen also asks when meetings will be video recorded to avoid potential discrepancies in notes.
• Bonnie Dressen: Talked about going to the National Night Out with her poster regarding ordinances. She references from the MAT library a sample ordinance that can be used. A signed paper is required from the board to allow Dressen to obtain the sample. She requests the board sign this so she can obtain the sample ordinance.
• Shane Stolp: Gave thanks to town board for work on West Branch Road including road repairs, ditch work, and other volunteer work. Expressed concerns on any ordinances due to lack of enforceability and potential legal implications of the town board. Defined his view of what a community means.
• Chair Nelson proposes adding language to the Town Board website as follows: “Pequawyan Township and the Pequawyan Lakes Association discourages the use of Wakeboats, also known as wake surf boats or watersports boats, popular for their ability to produce large wakes suitable for surfing and wakeboarding. However, their operation can have several negative impacts on lake habitats primarily through shoreline erosion, disruption of aquatic vegetation, sediment resuspension, and disturbance of wildlife, all of which can degrade the ecological health of freshwater ecosystems. If you want more information on Wakeboats, please do a search and reference the University of Minneosta Wakeboat Study found here: UMN researchers study waves created by recreational boats | St. Anthony Falls Laboratory | College of Science and Engineering.  Swanstrom motioned to put language on the front page of the website, Wilson second, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.

Next meeting: September 9, 2025, 7:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall

Swanstrom motioned to adjourn the meeting at 7:55 pm, second by Wilson, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.

Next Meeting, September 9, 2025, 7:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall

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

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

Attendance:
Officers Present: Chair Douglas Nelson, Vice-Chair Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor Jim Wilson, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson, Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp,  Deputy Treasurer Raymond Barnes
Guests: Bonnie Dressen, Douglas Dressen, Stephanie Jones, Stephen Jones, Deb Pomroy, Kathy Sykes, Tom Sykes, Chris Jussila, Karen Jussila, Sarah Parker, Katie Dellenbach

Clerk’s Report: Wallace presented the June 2025 minutes. Swanstrom motioned to approve the minutes, Wilson seconded, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.

Treasurer’s Report:
JUNE 2025
Total Funds on Hand 6/1/2025 $277,519.38
Plus: Deposits $1,571.40
Interest on Accounts 1,571.40

Less: Disbursements $3,742.39
Payroll 1,762.06
Legal 60.00
Other expenses 1,920.33
Total Funds on Hand 6/30/2025 $275,348.39
Checks Written 2156-2166

JULY 2025
Expected Receipts St Louis Cty $35,740.35
Checks Written 2167-2174 $2,922.81
2175 – for PFD radios $50,000.00

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

Old Business

• Pequaywan Fire Department: Chief Katie Dellenbach discussed an update on the purchase of the radios, Fire Wise program they are working on and how the township can cooperate and be involved and passed along a request for more brush drop off dates from residents. Katie talked about having a defensible structure defined as having a 30’ radius around structures with no brush that could light easily. Katie discussed a variety of options around utilizing the Fire Wise program including: renting a chipper and encouraging people to bring brush in as the association had requested an additional tree drop off day, a training day on evacuation planning, or other ideas to help the community. After further conversation, Katie will reach out to her contact to get a day set up for preparedness training for this fall. She will also reach out to neighboring townships to see if they would like to join the day.
• Invasive weed: Deb Pomroy reported that she continues to complete her surveys and will complete reports after she is done. Deb stated that anyone who wants to come along on the survey is welcome to tag along. A resident asked to look at the weeds in the big lake as the association was concerned about them spreading. She reported Little Pequaywan some years ago had 50 clumps of an iris type invasive species. No action was taken.
• Update on West Branch Road: Proposal has been received from Sinnott to make repairs of about 1/3 mile of existing blacktop, excavation of soil and placement of class 5, geofabric and 2 lifts of blacktop at a cost of $262,130. Chair Nelson will get the county contact for plowing to see what minimum repairs are needed to renew the plowing contract. While this repair is expensive it will not be the same price per unit going forward as the remaining road area will not necessarily require full excavation like this area. A resident asked if an environmental impact study is required with the Board responding with their intentions to move forward with the county recommendations.
• Status of Subordinate Service District petition: 23 residents have signed, 5 are committed but unsigned out of 36 needed. Plan to go door to door to gain the necessary support to get the petition signed.
• Update on Fire Wise program: Swanstrom had nothing to add beyond Fire Chief report.
• Contribution proposal for help funding Township: Jim Wilson brought up that previously when people wanted to contribute money to the township there wasn’t a way to do this in a way they would be recognized. We could add a community plaque in the fire hall that would list anyone – or they could remain anonymous- who donated more than $500. Funds could be designated to specific funds like road and bridge, fire department, or general fund. We could add a page to the township website. Town Board will continue to explore this.

New Business

• Discussion about creating a Township Ordinance: Chair Nelson has started doing some research with MAT. We have never had an ordinance previously so this would be a first. Resident discussion followed around pros and cons of having ordinances with no action taken.
• Town officers eligible to serve as Moderator during Annual Town Meeting: Clerk Wallace reported that at the last annual meeting it was difficult to find a moderator so she asked MAT if officers can serve as moderator. MAT stated that officers can serve if they are a permanent township resident.
• Minnesota Grant Watch (Greater Minnesota Regional Parks & Trails
  Commission): Chair Nelson brought a report forward from the MN Grant Watch where we could apply for funds by 7/31/25. No action taken.
• Brush drop off date: Chair Nelson asked for interest of an additional day. Wilson heard from one person in the association and Nelson has also heard more interest. A date of August 30, 2025 from 10 AM – 1 PM was established and agreed to unanimously by the board.

Correspondence

• Received:
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace for June web maintenance in the amount of $25.00
• MATIT Premium Notice for coverages for Inland Marine and General Liability \, Public Employer’s Liability in the amount of $1,004.00Sent: NonePublic Comment Request: A guest asked if we could start streaming the meetings. Chair Nelson will look into this.Next Meeting, August 12, 2025, 7:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall
  Swanstrom motioned to adjourn the meeting at 7:51 pm, second by Wilson, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.

Next Meeting, August 12, 2025, 7:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall

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

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

Attendance:

Officers Present: Chair Douglas Nelson, Vice-Chair Don Swanstrom, Supervisor Jim Wilson, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson, Deputy Treasurer Raymond Barnes

Officer Absent: Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp

Guests: Bonnie Dressen, Douglas Dressen, Dorothy Galinski, Stephanie Jones, Stephen Jones, Joseph Miller, Deb Pomroy, Art Peterson, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report: Wallace presented the May 2025 minutes. Swanstrom motioned to approve the minutes, Wilson seconded, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.

Treasurer’s Report

MAY 2025

Total Funds on Hand 5/1/2025 $279,163.91
Plus: Deposits $852.60
Interest on Accounts 852.60

Less: Disbursements $2,497.13
Payroll 344.83
St Louis Cty – snow plowing 1,236.50
Legal 495.00
Other expenses 420.80

Total Funds on Hand 5/31/2025 $277,519.38
Checks Written 2149-2155

JUNE 2025
Expected Receipts-None
Checks Written 2156-2166 $52,548.19
Transfer from CD & Savings made

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

Old Business

• Invasive weed: Deb Pomroy reported that she surveyed the very northeastern part of the area owned by the township on the corner of Rossini Road and Pequaywan Lake Road, now dubbed as Pequaywan Township Park. The next targeted area will be the east northeast of King Lake. Deb stated that Pequaywan Township landowners could request to have their area surveyed for invasive weeds without charge to them or the township. It was discussed that the township can request landowners to eradicate the weeds on their property and if they don’t, the township can go in and eradicate and bill the landowner.
• Update on West Branch Road meeting with Sinnott Blacktop (reported by Chair Nelson): On May 21, Wilson and I repaired before signing met with Jon Mercier of Sinnott Blacktop Company. We inspected the road for bad areas the county indicated they wanted repaired before signing our next season’s plowing contract. We found two large areas that are in poor condition. We discussed removing the existing blacktop and digging down the gravel bed underneath. Then install a stabilization fabric and new class 6 gravel bed before installing the new blacktop. They would bring enough extra material to patch the new potholes that have developed this past spring. The larger area they repair, the lower the square foot pricing and these areas will not need to be redone when we blacktop the entire West Branch township road.

We inspected the four culverts and we found no sign of rust or deterioration. Jon said he saw no reason to replace them at the present time. This is great news as the cost of replacement will be significant. To date, I have not received his bid for the work.

• Chair Nelson reported that progress on petition to create Subordinate Service District is going well. To date, there are 20 landowners that have signed the petition. We have a “yes” commitment from five others but have not yet tracked them down. We need 36 total to pass the 51% requirement. So, we need 11 more people to sign. There are many we just have not been able to reach as of now.I have found very little resistance to the idea with the people I have talked with.
• Results of Brush disposal from Saturday, May 31: The township would like to thank Stephen Jones for his help and Stephanie Jones for bringing Chocolate Chip Cookies. It was suggested that go ahead and burn in your property if you can burn safely. If not, cut them and lay them on the ground.
• Jim Wilson’s idea for donations and community plaque with posting on our website: table for July

New Business

• Pequaywan Lake Association: Joseph Miller, the new president of the association was at the meeting and shared what were discussed at their first meeting on June 7. The items discussed were: (1) water quality; (2) Firewise; (3) public prevention use of the lake; (4) discourage use of Wake Boats (Art Peterson will send the clerk MAT information on ordinance for Wake Boats); (5) Social National Night Out which is scheduled on August 5 at 5:00 p.m. at Pequaywan Inn, $10 membership, food, music; (6) directory; (7) seeking Firewise volunteer liaison between the association and township.
• Response letter from St Louis County Planning and Zoning re-resident inquiry on topic regarding camper trailer/RV regulation for property owners: a representative is not able to attend the town meeting but sent the new Zoning Ordinance 62 and Amendments regulations which can be found on the town website under “About Pequaywan/St. Louis County Planning Regulations”.
• Date for fall Brush Disposal is October 4, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• Fire Wise program and future efforts on preventions: Firewise program is managed by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). In the past, the township had participated in Firewise within which the township’s share is man hours. Swanstrom is very interested in pursuing this program and will make contacts with DNR to get information and get it set up. He also volunteered to be the liaison between the township and Pequaywan Lake Association for this project.
• FEMA letter about flood plain mapping of our area
• Election judges: Wallace reported that at the last Minnesota Association of Townships Spring Short Course training, the trainer reiterated that the board chooses the election judges to serve during elections. In the past, the township always had three judges so Wallace prepared the Resolution to Appoint Election Judges with those three and have the board approve it. Now that more folks volunteered to be election judges (total of five excluding Stolp as Head Election Judge), the board has to choose two from those five which will be completed in January or February. She also reported that Deb Pomroy resigned as an election judge.

Correspondence

Received:

• Response letter from St. Louis County Planning and Zoning re-camper trailer/RV regulation
• Email and postage letter from St. Louis County Planning Commission re- Hybrid Virtual and in-person Public Hearing they are conducting on June 17 about the Zoning Ordinance 62 amendments.
• Email from U.S. Census Bureau re-local update of Census Addresses
• Inquiry from a resident re- St. Louis County Planning and Zoning Land Use Ordinance of Camper/RV per land parcel
• Postage letter from FEMA Risk Mapping Assessment, and Planning informing townships of their program that helps communities to identify, assess and reduce their flood risk
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace in the amount of $25.00 for May website maintenance
• Invoice from SLCAT (St. Louis County Association of Townships) in the amount of $50.00 for attendance at the annual meeting on May 28, 2025 by Jim Wilson and Lita Wallace

Sent:

• Officers list with contact information mailed to Minnesota Association of Townships
• Two LBAE appeal response letters sent to two residents for results of their appeals

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

Public Comment Request: None

Next Meeting, July 8, 2025, 7:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall

Wilson motioned to adjourn the meeting at 8:00 p.m., second by Swanstrom, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.

Respectfully submitted by:
Lita Wallace, Clerk

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 pm by Chair Douglas Nelson

Attendance:

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

Guests: Karen Jussila, Mark Johnson, Stephanie Jones, Stephen Jones, Doug Dressen, Bonnie Dressen, Deb Pomroy, Ray Barnes, Deb Pomroy, Ted Wallace, Jeff Westman

Clerk’s Report

Wallace presented the April 2025 minutes. Swanstrom motioned to approve the minutes, Wilson seconded, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.

Treasurer’s Report

APRIL 2025
Total Funds on Hand 4/1/2025 $282,065.90
Plus: Deposits $3.98
-Interest on Accounts 3.98
Less: Disbursements $2,905.97
-Payroll 1,210.50
-941 Quarterly Federal taxes 1,327.44
-Other expenses 368.03
Total Funds on Hand 4/30/2025 $279,163.91
Checks Written 2129-2138

MAY 2025
Expected Receipts: None
Checks Written 2149-2155 $2,497.13
No transfer to checking needed

Treasurer Nelson noted that while the fire department had a $50,000 grant approved for new radios, the funds for the down payment on the radios must be paid before the grant money can be released. She therefore requested authorization to write half the amount for radios up to $25,000. The fire department will send us the money back once they receive the grant proceeds. James Wilson motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report and the fund advancement, second by Swanstrom, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.

Old Business

• West Branch Road Update (Sinnot Blacktop Company, Subordinate Service District): Supervisor Nelson is waiting for the contractor to have time to meet and review the road condition and repairs necessary in order to have the County plow next year. Nelson will present a full report after that meeting. Nelson received the final wording from the town attorney and created a list of all property owners, their parcel id, and a spot for signatures. Wilson will start collecting signatures.
• Update on purchase of new radios by Pequaywan Fire Department from a grant: Treasurer Nelson noted that we have to do this grant funding through Pequaywan, pay for half of the radios and then the fire department can submit for final funding at which time the Township will be refunded. While the department is receiving 10 radios thru this grant it does leave them one short.
• Mediacom update/Mediacom wants to bring fiber optics from Jean Duluth Road to Northstar, Pequaywan and up to White Lake: Town board sent letter of support for Mediacom in April. Frontier called after and asked for the board support for extending this from Pequaywan Township to all of Ault Township. After considering pricing from both and the limited time to respond, Nelson sent a letter of support for Frontier as well knowing the State makes a final determination on which entity receives the grant.
• Amazon Business Prime Update: Wallace followed up on an advertisement from for a free Amazon Business Prime for townships. Upon further investigation it was $499 or $1,299 after two years of free membership. Advantages include free shipping, invoiced monthly, and a line of credit of $5,000. Clerk recommends not doing the Amazon Prime as it is not used enough.
• Memorial tree planting Resolution: Supervisor Wilson requested modifying last month’s board approval of the memorial tree planting to allow plaques in addition to the trees. Wilson motioned to approve the change to the resolution of withdrawing the plaque choice, seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.
• MATIT consolidated insurance policy: Coverages were reviewed and a change is needed for the new voting machines to be listed and the old ones removed. Due to the value of the machines being similar no change is expected on the premium. A resident inquired if the township land should be insured and after a brief discussion determined no action required. Don Swanstrom motioned to approve the MATIT policy with the voting machine change from Automark to OmniBallot, seconded by Wilson, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.
• In response to a down tree on the Pequaywan walking trail, thanks to Jim Wilson who went out and cut down the fallen tree
• As part of St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office’s preparedness efforts, they are conducting a Community Hazard and Vulnerability Assessment with a survey to help Emergency Management and other response officials identify the top threat and hazards that may affect our community. The supervisors will work together after the board meeting to complete the survey and send off.
• Reminder: Saturday, May 31, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. is the next drop-off date to dispose off dead trees at township property at the corner of Rossini Road and Pequaywan Lake Road

New Business

• The Pequaywan Area Lakes Association President presented a concern to the board over a posted sign along Highway 44 that had their name on it without the Association’s authorization which he has since removed. The concern on the sign goes against the Association’s mission of educate, encourage and discourage and their understanding of lack of authority. A lengthy discussion on the signs followed with a resident stating they installed it to drive conversation and apologized for doing so. Doug Nelson motioned that signs stating “Wake boats are prohibited with the Pequaywan Lake Association name on it” will not be allowed to be posted without approval from the Association, seconded by Wilson, motion carried. Nelson yay, Swanstrom yay, Wilson yay.

Correspondence

Received:

• Invoice from Daisy Wallace in the amount of $25.00 for April website maintenance
• Invoice from St. Louis County Public Works Department for 2nd half snowplowing billing in the amount of $1,236.25
• Policy from MATIT for Consolidated Liability Coverage in the amount of $1,004.00
• Invoice from MAT for Spring Short Course Registration attendance $225.00 (Swanstrom, Wallace, Stolp) and four 2025 Government Manuals $80.00 = $305.00

Sent: None

Public Comment:

• Resident stated that St. Louis County has an ordinance regarding only one licensed RV allowed per taxable parcel unless a different parcel classification is obtained. He would like to place a sign notifying residents of this requirement. The Pequaywan Lakes Association President commented they could include notice in their address directory to help educate residents. Supervisor Nelson requested resident to obtain some more information on the ordinance and come back to the Town Board.
• Supervisor Swanstrom raised concern about the dead trees in the Township. Discussion on prior years’ removal of trees using the DNR Firewise Grant was had. Swanstrom will look into this and present at next meeting his findings.

Next Meeting, June 10, 2025, 7:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall

Wilson motioned to adjourn the meeting at 7:55 p.m., second by Swanstrom, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.

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

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

Attendance:

Town officers Present: Supervisors Douglas Nelson, Supervisor James Wilson, Supervisor Don Swanstrom, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson, Deputy Treasurer Ray Barnes
Absent: Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp

Guests: Katie Dellenbach, Bonnie Dressen, Dorothy Galinski, Charles Kuettel, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report

Wallace presented the March 2025 minutes. Swanstrom motioned to approve the minutes, Wilson seconded, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.

Treasurer’s Report

MARCH 2025
Total Funds on Hand 3/1/2025 $285,223.77
Plus: Deposits $2,244.40
Interest on Accounts 100.01
St. Louis Cty – Town Aid 2,144.39
Less: Disbursements $5,402.27
Payroll 1,989.98
Pequaywan Fire & EMS 3,000.00
Other expenses 412.29
Total Funds on Hand 3/31/2025 $282,065.90
Checks Written 2129-2138

APRIL 2025
Expected Receipts
None
Checks Written 2139-2148 $2,905.97
No transfer to checking needed

Carol Nelson reported that another $40,000.00 CD was opened. One CD for $40,000.00 for 5 months is due in October and the $78,000.00 CD is for 25 months.

Don Swanstrom motioned to approve the Treasurer’s Report, seconded by Wilson, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.

Old Business

• Finalize resolution on Memorial Tree planting on township land: The draft of the resolution prepared by Wallace was approved with amendment to add other options such as installing an engraved stone and donating to the Pequaywan Township or the Pequaywan Fire Department. It was suggested to have John Wilson’s name on top of the list for the engraved stone to honor his land donation. Motioned to approve by Wilson, seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.
• Update on progress of Subordinate Service District: Nelson specified that a letter was sent to 71 property landowners in West Branch Road. The proposed District needs 51% or 36 signatures. At the present time, only 20 have confirmed. There will be a service charge/levy of $35,000.00 per year based on property values until accumulated funds combined with the Pequaywan Township Road and Bridge Funds. Documents will be forwarded to the township lawyer.
• Bonnie Dressen reported that she received communication from St. Louis County that the grant application for the Invasive Species AIS has been declined but was encouraged to apply again. Bonnie also reported that the Water Board signs are ready for posting.
  
  New Business

• Douglas Nelson was voted as Chair and Donald Swanstrom as Vice- Chair. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.
• Mediacom is requesting the Townships of North Star, Pequaywan and Ault (up to White Lake) to provide a letter of endorsement for a grant application with USDA. The board approved to send a letter of endorsement. Mediacom is interested in bringing optic broadband to property owners in these townships. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.
• Spring tree disposal is scheduled on May 31 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Information will be posted at posting places.
• Wallace reported that MAT (Minnesota Association of Townships) mentioned during the Spring training last April 4 that Amazon is offering free Amazon Business Prime to townships. Wallace offered to attend the webinar by Amazon on April 16 and will try to apply if they would require the township’s Tax ID # and not personal SSN.. The board approved for Wallace to participate in the webinar.
• Katie Dellenbach announced that Tom Getchell stepped down as the Pequaywan Fire Chief and she will be taking over as the new Fire Chief. She also announced that the Fire Department received a grant of $50,483.00 for the purchase of 10 encrypted radios. However, they are not able to receive the grant as they are not a governing body. They are also required to purchase the radios and then get reimbursed. She is requesting if the township can pay for the purchase and then get reimbursed once they receive the grant in a month’s time. Wilson motioned to approve, Swanstrom seconded, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.
• Reorganization Meeting (after the Board Meeting)

Correspondence

Received:

• Invoice from St. Louis County in the amount of $99.65 for online election training of election judges
• Invoice from Daisy Wallace in the amount of $218.38 ($155.88 for Dreamhost Web Annual Renewal, and $25.00 for website administration)
• Local Board of Appeal and Equalization (LBAE) meeting supplies for CVT 502 Pequaywan Township from St. Louis County Assessor’s Office
• Correspondence from North Star Township requesting for Pequaywan Township’s participation to the meeting and public forum by Mediacom during the months of March and April

Sent

• Officer update list to St. Louis County Elections and Minnesota Association of Townships

 Public Comment Request: None

Next Meeting: May 13, 2025, 7:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall

The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 p.m.

The Meeting was called to order at 7:50 p.m. by Chair Nelson.

Attendance:

Town officers Present: Supervisors Douglas Nelson, Supervisor James Wilson, Supervisor Don Swanstrom, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Carol Nelson, Deputy Treasurer Ray Barnes
Absent: Deputy Clerk Shane Stolp

Guests: Katie Dellenbach, Bonnie Dressen, Dorothy Galinski, Charles Kuettel, Ted Wallace

Discussion and/or approval of the following Resolutions:

• Resolution #2025-003:  Planting Memorial Trees on the Township LandThe draft of the resolution prepared by Wallace was approved with amendment to add other options such as installing an engraved stone or donating to the Pequaywan Township or the Pequaywan Fire Department. It was suggested to have John Wilson’s name on top of the list for the engraved stone to honor his land donation. Motioned to approve by Wilson, seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried.
• Resolution #2025-004: Establishing a Policy for the Compensation and Reimbursement of Town OfficersWilson motioned to approve the resolution as written by Wallace, seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.
• Resolution #2025-005: 2026 Town LevyWilson motioned to approve the resolution as written by Wallace, seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.
• Resolution #2025-006: Statutory Conflicts of Interest

Wilson motioned to approve the resolution as written by Wallace, seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried. Nelson yay, Wilson yay, Swanstrom yay.

 

The meeting was adjourned at 8:57 p.m.