Category: Minutes

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

Attendance: Town officers: Supervisor Charles Kuettel, Supervisor Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Treasurer Raymond G. Barnes, Clerk Lita Wallace

Guests: Ted Wallace, Daryle Waldriff

Clerk’s Report: Wallace presented the minutes of the Board of Supervisors meeting  on January 14, 2020. Motion to approve by Swanstrom with typo correction on Kuettel’s name, second by Dressen, motion carried, 3-0-0.

Treasurer’s Report:

JANUARY 2020
Total Funds on hand as of 01/01/2020 (Includes Investments) – $175,427.33
Plus: Deposits – $783.74
Less: Disbursements (January) – $22,990.88
Total Funds on hand as of 01/31/2020 – $153,220.19
January Check # 1507 – 1515

FEBRUARY 2020
Claims (February) – $1,761.82
February Check # 1516 – 1520
No transfers to Checking Account will be needed

Motion by Dressen to approve January Treasurer’s Report, February Claims, and to transfer $15,000 to the checking account to cover a check for Pequaywan Fire and EMS, second by Swanstrom, motion carried, 3-0-0.

Old Business

• Review and approve the following Town Resolutions: (1) Appointing a Deputy Clerk; (2) Appointing a Deputy Treasurer; and (3) Purchase of Tax Forfeited Land

New Business

• Election and meeting dates & time:

1. March 3, Presidential Nomination Primary election, 7:00am-8:00pm;
2. March 10, Town Election, 5:00pm-8:00 pm;
3. March 10, Annual Town Hall Meeting, 8:30 pm;
4. March 10, Township Board Meeting, after the Town Hall meeting;
5. March 10, Board of Canvass Meeting, after the Township Board Meeting

• February 29, 2:30 pm-Public Accuracy Test of the Automark Voting Machine
• April 29, 3:00-4:00 p.m., Local Board of Appeal and Equalization (LBAE) Meeting, Pequaywan Firehall
• Swanstrom motioned to keep the current $2,000.00 coverage of the employee life insurance, seconded by Dressen, motion carried, 3-0-0.
• Swanstrom motioned to approve the township’s boundary map from the United States Department of Commerce for its Initial Boundary Validation Program (BVP) to ensure the bureau has the correct legal boundary, name, and status for the township, seconded by Dressen.
• Dressen stated that he will take the lead in finding a replacement for the Noxious Weed Inspector and will discuss it with the Garden Club.
• Barnes reported that W-2s have been mailed out to employees as well as the Sales Tax Report form mailed to the State of Minnesota.
• Starting in 2021, Barnes suggested that the town board schedule the Budget Meeting for 2021 budget one or two weeks before the February meeting so that the budget amount for each account codes can be determined for CTAS purposes and Audit reports. Otherwise, the beginning balances for the year will all show zero. The Board of Audit Meeting can be scheduled right after the February Town Board meeting.

Correspondence

Received:

• Bill from SLCAT for MAT dues $307.44 plus county dues $161.70 = $469.14
• Life insurance billing statement from Minnesota Benefit Association – $165.00 due 4/1/2020
• Request from North Shore Title for information on any pending and/or levied assessments against a property in the township
• January newsletter from Minnesota Association of Townships
• Election judge training materials and online training module for the Presidential Nomination Primary election from St. Louis County Elections
• Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan from St. Louis County for public review and comment by January 31
• Blank Annual Report of Outstanding Indebtedness form from St. Louis County Auditor
• Notice of MAT District 10 Lobby Day scheduled on March 18 in St. Paul
• Email from St. Louis County Elections re-posting notice of Presidential Nomination Primary election and sample ballots for the election for posting
• Updated Noxious Weed List from St. Louis County Land and Minerals Department
• Voter Master List received from St. Louis County Elections
• Map of the township from the United States Department of Commerce for the board to review the Census Bureau’s boundary data to ensure the bureau has the correct legal boundary, name, and status for the township for its Initial Boundary Validation Program (BVP)
• Letter from United States Department of Commerce with the form 2020 Boundary and Annexation Survey Annual Response and Contact Update Form, an opportunity for the township to participate in the BAS to ensure that the Census Bureau has current and accurate boundary, legal name, and status information for the township
  

Sent:

• Voting Equipment Grant Application Form mailed to the Minnesota Secretary of State and a copy provided to St. Louis County Elections
• Annual Report of Outstanding Indebtedness as of December 31, 2020, mailed to St. Louis County Auditor
• A check ($5,340.83) for purchase of forfeited land from St. Louis County was delivered

Public Comment:

Next Meeting, March 10, 2020, 9:30 p.m. or after the Annual Town Hall meeting, Pequaywan Firehall, 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road

Meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

Meeting was called to Order at 8:51 p.m.

Attendance: Chair Charles Kuettel, Supervisor Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Raymond G. Barnes

Guest: Ted Wallace

Discuss and set-up budget for 2020
Discuss and set-up budget for 2021
Discuss levy recommendation for 2021

BUDGET FOR 2020 AND 2021
GENERAL FUND	2019 ACTUAL DISBURSMENTS	2020 BUDGET	2021 BUDGET
General Property Taxes (31001 through 31299)	11,830.56
Total Acct 310	11,830.56
Forfeited Tax Sale Apportionments	2,861.69
Total Acct 319	2,861.69
Taconite Production Tax	3,270.40
State – Payments in Lieu of Taxes	3,886.94
Town Aid	1,671.00
Total Acct 334	8,828.34
Interest Earning	522.91
Total Acct 362	522.91
Total Revenues	24,043.50
Disbursements:
Council/Town Board	2,180.27	2,200.00	2200.00
Total Acct 411	2,180.27	2,200.00	2200.00
Clerk	5,404.07	5,000.00	5000.00
Total Acct 414	5,404.07	5,000.00	5000.00
Treasurer	3,973.32	4,100.00	4100.00
Total Acct 415	3,973.32	4,100.00	4100.00
Other General Government	5,999.00	6,200.00	8100.00
Election Judges	225.7	1,500.00	600.00
Total Acct 419	6,224.70	7,700.00	8700.00
Worker’s Compensation – Unallocated	0	0	0.00
Insurance – Unallocated	0	0	0.00
Total Acct 492	0	0	0.00
Total Disbursements	17,782.36	19,000.00	20000.00
ROAD AND BRIDGE (ON-GOING MAINTENANCE)	2019 ACTUAL DISBURSMENTS	2020 BUDGET	2021 BUDGET
General Property Taxes (31001 through 31299)	1,662.49
Total Acct 310	1,662.49
Town Aid	1,506.31
Total Acct 334	1,506.31
Total Revenues	3,168.80
Other Financing Sources:
Total Other Financing Sources
Disbursements:
Paved Streets	2,545.62	2,500.00	3,000.00
Total Acct 431	2,545.62	2,500.00	3,000.00
Total Disbursements	2,545.62	2,500.00	3,000.00
FIRE AND EMS	2019 ACTUAL DISBURSMENTS	2020 BUDGET	2021 BUDGET
General Property Taxes (31001 through 31299)	13,460.85
Total Acct 310	13,460.85
Total Revenues	13,460.85
Disbursements:
Fire Fighting	13,500.00	15,000.00	16,500.00
Total Acct 422	13,500.00	15,000.00	16,500.00
Total Disbursements	13,500.00	15,000.00	16,500.00
ROADS AND BRIDGES (CAPITAL RESERVE)	2019 ACTUAL DISBURSMENTS	2020 BUDGET	2021 BUDGET
General Property Taxes (31001 through 31299)	3,082.47
Total Acct 310	3,082.47
Taconite Production Tax	3,157.60
Total Acct 334	3,157.60
Interest Earning	2,091.66
Total Acct 362	2,091.66
Total Revenues	8,331.73
Disbursements:
Paved Streets	14,389.88	5,000.00	10,000.00
Total Acct 431	14,389.88	5,000.00	10,000.00
Total Disbursements	14,389.88	5,000.00	10,000.00
GRAND TOTAL	48,217.86	41,500.00	49,500.00

 

LEVY RECOMMENDATION FOR 2021
SUMMARY	2021 LEVY	2021 BUDGET
General Fund	12,000.00	20,000.00
Road and Bridges (On-going Maintenance	3,000.00	3,000.00
Fire and EMS	16,500.00	16,500.00
Road and Bridges (Capital Reserve)	12,000.00	10,000.00
Total	43,500.00	49,500.00

Meeting was adjourned at 9:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

Meeting was called to Order at 8:26 p.m.

Attendance: Chair Charles Kuettel, Supervisor Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Clerk Lita Wallace, Treasurer Raymond G. Barnes

Guest: Ted Wallace

Review Clerk/Treasurer’s Reports

• Summary of Receipts received from January – December 2019 (treasurer)
• Review Treasurer and Clerk’s Disbursements Ledger (compare Fund/Account/Object Codes) – board members select 3+ disbursements to review and check
• Review Treasurer and Clerk’s Receipts Ledgers (compare Fund/Account) – do direct deposit have triplicate receipts, verify that deposits are noted on the appropriate bank statement, board members select and review 3+ receipts
• Review Bank Statements to check that Cash Control Statement demonstrates same  balance as the Bank Statement
• Verify that Clerk and Treasurer are balancing and reconciling bank statements statements (have the same balance), and Schedule 1 matches for both Treasurer and Clerk

Meeting was adjourned at 8:50 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

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

Attendance: Town officers: Supervisor Charles Kuettel, Supervisor Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Treasurer Raymond G. Barnes, Clerk Lita Wallace.

Guests: Dan Ahunen, Bonnie Dressen, Jessica Dorsey, Paul Klassen, Deb Pomroy, Roxanne Scranton, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report: Wallace presented the minutes of the Board of Supervisors meeting  on December 10, 2019. Motion to approve by Swanstrom, second by Dressen, motion carried, 3-0-0

Treasurer’s Report

DECEMBER 2019
Total Funds on hand as of 12/01/2019 (Includes Investments) – $166,479.33
Plus: Deposits – $12,853.00
Less: Disbursements (December) – $3,905.00
Total Funds on hand as of 12/31/2019 – $175,427.33
December Check # 1496 – 1506

JANUARY 2020

Claims (January) – $22,990.88 (amount include check for St. Louis County Auditor $5,340.83; and Pequaywan Fire and Rescue $15,000.00)
January Check # 1507 – 1515
Transfer of $15,000.00 to Checking Account will be needed

Motion by Swanstrom to approve December and January Treasurer’s Reports and to transfer $15,000 to the checking account, second by Dressen, motion carried, 3-0-0.

Old Business

• Update on the land purchase – Department of Natural Resources has approved the sale of the forfeited property to Pequaywan Towship in the amount as follows: Appraised land value $5,100.00; 3% State Assurance Fee $153.00; Deed fee $25.00; Deed tax $16.83; Recording fee $46.00 = Total due $5,340.83 payable to St. Louis County Auditor. Kuettel stated to have a Resolution be created for the purchase of the property. Barnes mentioned that he will personally deliver the check to St. Louis County.
• Update on snowplow drivers strike as it affects the township – St. Louis County adviced townships to seek an alternative service provider for the duration of any strike action by snowplow driver’s starting on January 15 if a labor contract settlement is not reached. Kuettel reported that the town officers do not know anybody that has a plow that can do the work. County supervisors will be plowing the roads and to expect delays.
• Update on new laptops; what to do with the old laptops and cleaning files from the hard drive – Wallace and Barnes reported that the software needed have been installed. Kuettel advised to keep the old laptops for the use of deputy clerk and deputy treasurer and not to erase the files for now.
• Update on Voting Equipment Grant Application, due 1/31/2020 – Wallace completed the Grant Application Form and will submit to the State of Minnesota. She also reported that the cost of new voting equipment (DS200) to replace M100 is $5,260 and the state’s grant is up to $2,630 depending on the number of applications received versus the total $2M amount of grant
• Adding a deputy clerk and deputy treasurer for the township – Kuettel mentioned the need to hire a deputy clerk and a deputy treasurer to replace the clerk and treasurer who will end their term in March 2021; and that a Resolution should be created
• Upcoming elections and Public Accuracy Test (February 29 at 2:00 p.m. at Pequaywan Firehall) of the Automark machine: Wallace reported the following important election dates:

1. March 3, 7:00am.-8:00pm, Presidential Nomination Primary, Pequaywan Firehall
   2. March 10, 5:00pm-8:00pm, Township Election, Pequaywan Firehall (update on Affidavit of Candidacy submission for Supervisor opening) : one candidate, Donald Swanstrom, submitted an Affidavit of Candidacy

New Business

• Bob McDonough resigned as election judge effective January 2020
• Pequaywan Fire & EMS is requesting $16,500.00 for 2021 contribution

• Approve and sign the following Town Resolutions:

1. Resolution for Appointment of Judges for 2020 Elections (motion passed during November meeting)
2. Resolution Appointing Absentee Ballot Board for 2020 March Township Election
3. Resolution for Voting Equipment Grant Funding Application (motion passed during December meeting)

• Scheduled and confirmed the following meetings:

1. February 11, 2020: Board of Audit Meeting and Budget Meeting after the Township Board Meeting, approximately 8:30 pm
2. March 10, 2020: Annual Town Meeting right after Town Election approximately 8:30pm
3. March 10, 2020: Township Board Meeting, and Board of Canvas Meeting after Annual Town Meeting approximately 9:30pm
4. April 14, 2020: Reorganizational Meeting after Township Board Meeting to discuss: (a)  Resolution for a Polling Place for 2021 Election/s; (b) Resolutions on Establishing a Policy for the Compensation and Reimbursement of Town Officers; possibly (c) Retention Schedule; and (d) Statutory Conflicts of Interest

• Primary Election, August 11; General Election, November 10 – need to change the date of Town meetings that falls on the same date as election days as ballot counting may not be done until midnight or later: tabled until July meeting for the August 11 election and October meeting for the November election
• Local Board of Appeal and Equalization (LBAE) training – Both Kuettel and Swanstrom have LBAE training. Dressen will take the training online or during the MAT Spring Short Courses

Correspondence

Received:

• Premium Invoice from MATIT for Consolidated Coverage $923.00
• Invoice from St. Louis County for services completed for Proposed Tax Notice Preparation and delivery $69.77
• Billing Statement from St. Louis County, Land and Minerals Department, for purchase of tax forfeited property in Rossini Road, $5,340.83
• Email from St. Louis County, Phil Chapman Elections Supervisor, re-more information on the cost of replacement for the M100 election equipment and supplies
• Email from St. Louis County, Phil Chapman Elections Supervisor, re-information on the process for the Presidential Nomination Primary voting in Minnesota
• Email from St. Louis County, Land and Minerals Department, County Ag Inspector, requesting to complete and submit 2019 Annual Township Report on Noxious Weed Control
• Email from Duluth Association of Townships with October 2019 meeting minutes, invoice for 2020 Association Dues, and January Meeting Agenda
• Email from U.S. Census Bureau, Sam Fettig, Chicago Regional Census Center, re-training in forming a 2020 Complete Count Committee
• Emails from U.S. Census Bureau re-voluntary Boundary and Annexation Survey participation to ensure that the Census Bureau has current and accurate boundary, legal name, and status information for the township
• Email from St. Louis County, Public Works, re-possible strike of snowplow drivers anytime between January 14 and February 3, 2020, and for townships to be aware of delays in snowplowing and to seek an alternative provider
• Email from Minnesota Department of Revenue Board of Appeal and Equalization through St. Louis County Assessor’s Office reminding townships to have at least one voting member trained

Sent:

• Email to St. Louis County, Planning and Community Development, of the township Resolution 2019-010 Short Term Rental Recommendations
• 2019 Annual Township Report for Noxious Weed Control submitted to St. Louis County Land Department
• 2019 W-2 and W-3 filed with the federal government
• 2019 State Wage Detail Report submitted to the Minnesota Secretary of State
• 2019 Sales and Use Tax Report submitted to the Department of Revenue
• 2019 Workers’ Compensation for MATIT, due 2/1/2020

Public Comment: Dan Ahunen of Pequaywan Fire and EMS submitted their request for the 2020 grant in the amount $16,000.00. Due to increasing expenses incurred for training, supplies, equipment and maintenance of vehicles, they have to increase their request of grant. Kuettel stated that Pequaywan Fire and EMS must present their request during the March Annual Town meeting for approval. A resident requested for the Pequaywan Fire and EMS to submit an expense report during the Annual Meeting.

Paul Klassen mentioned that St. Louis County will finalize the Permitting Standards to Zoning Ordinance 62 (Short-Term Rental) during their meeting on February 25 which will be in effect immediately.

Next Meeting, February 11, 2020, 7:30 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall, 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road

Meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

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

Attendance: Town officers: Supervisor Charles Kuettel, Supervisor Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Treasurer Raymond G. Barnes, Clerk Lita Wallace.

Guests: Lisa Klassen, Paul Klassen, Deb Pomroy, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report: Wallace presented the minutes of the Board of Supervisors meeting  on November 12, 2019. Motion to approve by Dressen, second by Swanstrom, motion carried, 3-0-0.

Treasurer’s Report

NOVEMBER 2019
Total Funds on hand as of 11/01/2019 (Includes Investments) – $166,718.50
Plus: Deposits – $221.90
Less: Disbursements (November) – $461.07
Total Funds on hand as of 11/30/2019 – $166,479.33
November Check # 1492 – 1495

DECEMBER 2019
Claims (December) – $3905.00
December Check # 1496 – 1506
No Fund Transfers Needed

Motion to approve by Dressen, second by Swanstrom, motion carried, 3-0-0.

Old Business

• Filing of Candidacy for the 2020 Town Election runs from December 31, 2019-January 14, 2020, contact the town clerk for form or questions, peqclerk@gmail.com, if interested to file candidacy for the supervisor position
• Discussion on the county land purchase: the county is still waiting for approval from DNR
• West Branch Road snow plowing: calls were received by town officers that the West Branch Road beyond the county line was not plowed during the Thanksgiving week snowstorm. The county explained that during the first snowfall, the new snowplow driver was advised to plow beyond the county/township boundary but for some reason he did not. He did plow the road during the next snowfall.
• Short term rental:  Wallace presented Resolution 2019-010, Short Term Rental Recommendation to St. Louis County, for signature by supervisors. Swanstrom motion to approve the Resolution, second by Dressen, motion carried, 3-0-0.
• Weed Inspector Deb Pomroy provided a copy of the Weed Inspector Report to the clerk she submitted to the Department of Agriculture. She said that Pequaywan Lake Road/Rossini Road had been surveyed and that West Branch Road by the bus turn around area will need more work next year. She requested to list the Weed Inspector position opening in the March Annual Town Meeting Agenda. She said that she can train the individual and can follow her around next year. Kuettel requested her to provide a list of duties.
• Barnes reported that he purchased two laptops for the clerk and treasurer and Microsoft Office softwares. The original price for the laptop was $1400.00 each and purchase price was $734.00 each.

New Business

• The legislature passed a grant for upgrading M100 election equipment with deadline date of January 31, 2020 to submit the application. Wallace explained that the township owns M100 equipment which will be obsolete in the coming future and eventually, townships will have to purchase DS2000 machine at a cost of $5,000.00 and grant may not be available after January 2020. Swanstrom motioned to apply for the grant, Dressen second, motion carried, 3-0-0.
• Swanstrom motioned to designate Dressen as contact for speed limit and weight restriction, Kuettel second, motion carried, 3-0-0.
• Since the clerk and treasurer will be leaving the post in March 2021, Kuettel mentioned that the township should hire a deputy clerk and deputy treasurer in the next few months for training purposes.
• Reminder to schedule the Reorganization Meeting  in March.

Correspondence

Received:

• Letter from St. Louis County Planning and Community Development Department re-Public Hearing on proposed permitting standards and amendments to Zoning Ordinance 62 (Short-term Rental)
• Letter from Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) requesting input on their Education Program throughout MAT, topics for Spring Short Courses, and Webinars planned for the Presidential Nomination Primary
• Letter from Minnesota Department of Revenue re-qualifying in filing withholding tax returns annually
• Worker’s Compensation Renewal Invoice ($227.00) and Audit from Minnesota Association of Townships Agency
• Letter from Minnesota Benefit Association re-offer for Medicare-eligible members and their spouses an affordable Group Medicare Supplement with Copayment (Plan N) paired with Group Medicare Blue RX (PDP) Medicare Part D plan offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota
• Email from St. Louis County Assessor’s Office re-LBAE (Board of Appeal and Equalization) training for 2020 season from the Department of Revenue
• Follow-up email from St. Louis County Land and Minerals Department re-sale of land to the township
• Email from St. Louis County Auditor-Elections re-deadline for submission of Notice of 2020 Township Election
• Email from St. Louis County Auditor-Elections re-2020 Ballot Application form
• Email from SLCAT re-reminder of December and January meetings
• Email from St. Louis County Auditor-Elections re Election Equipment Grant Information
• Email from DNR re-a plan submitted to explore on state nonferrous metallic minerals lease in northeastern Minnesota

Sent:

• Email to St. Louis County Auditor-Election re-Notice of 2020 Township Election

Public Comment: A resident commented that at night, the Fire Department sign is not visible and suggested to put up a reflector or lit up the Fire Department sign by the road. He was advised to make the suggestion to the Fire Department.

Next Meeting, January 14, 2020, 7:30 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall, 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road

Meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

Attendance: Clerk Lita Wallace

Guests: Dale Brooks, Douglas Dressen, Lisa Klassen, Paul Klassen, Charles Kuettel, Gordy Larson, Scott Mead, Glen Nelson, Donald Swanstrom, Ted Wallace

Meeting called to order: Clerk Wallace called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Election of a moderator: Dale Brooks and Scott Mead were nominated as Moderator. Votes were counted and Mead was elected.

Three sets of documents were provided to attendees:

1. Public Notice of the Statement of the Town Board Calling for a Special Town Meeting;
2. Letter from St. Louis County Planning and Community Development Department with the Proposed Revisions to St. Louis County Zoning Ordinance 62;
3. Letter of Recommendation submitted by Pequaywan Town Board on September 17, 2019.

The Agenda states that the purpose of the Special Town Meeting were as follows: review St. Louis County’s currently proposed short term rental of properties; discuss revising the Letter of Recommendation by Pequaywan Township to St. Louis County Planning Commission; and adopting a Resolution for the Town of Pequaywan.

There was a long discussion and the attendees agreed to shorten the Recommendations to seven (7). The Town Board has to vote on it on a Resolution during the December 10th Town Board Meeting. Since there is not much time between the Town Board meeting on December 10th and the deadline date of December 12th to submit a Resolution to St. Louis County, Moderator Mead suggested to submit a Recommendation Letter with a note that a Resolution will be submitted on or before December 12th.

Meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

Meeting was called to order at 7:40 p.m. by Chair Kuettel.

Attendance: Town Officers – Supervisor Charles Kuettel, Supervisor Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Treasurer Raymond G. Barnes, Clerk Lita Wallace.

Guests: Bonnie Dressen, Lisa Klassen, Deb Pomroy, Scott Mead, Daryl Waldriff, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report: The minutes of the Board of Supervisors meeting  on October 8, 2019 was presented and reviewed. Motion to approve by Swanstrom, second by Dressen, motion carried, 3-0-0.

Treasurer’s Report:

OCTOBER 2019

Total Funds on hand as of 10/01/2019 (Includes Investments) – $168,852.87
Plus: Deposits – $217.44
Less: Disbursements (October) – $2,351.81
Total Funds on hand as of 10/31/2019 – $166,718.50
October Check # 1482 – 1491

NOVEMBER 2019

Claims (November) – $461.07
November Check # 1492 – 1495
No Fund Transfers Needed

Motion to approve by Dressen, second by Swanstrom, motion carried, 3-0-0.

Old Business

• Update on the land purchase from St. Louis County – The county approved the special sale of the land reclassifying it as non-conservation, pending final sale approval from DNR. The Town Board approved the acquisition of the land for $5,100 plus the following fees: 3% assurance fee of $153, deed fee of $25, deed tax of $16.83, and recording fee of $46, for a total of $5,340.83 to be deposited into Fund 240 (Forfeited Tax Fund) . Motion by Swanstrom, second by Dressen, motion carried, 3-0-0.
• Approval of Resolution for speed and weight limit in West Branch Road owned by Pequaywan Township  as follows: weight limit limited to 35 MPH and the vehicle axle weight restricted to 7-ton. Motion  to approve by Dressen, second by Swanstrom, motion carried, 3-0-0.

New Business

• Both Wallace and Barnes verbally advised the board that their last day will be in March 2021.
• Request for purchase of new PCs for Treasurer and Clerk: Barnes explained that the current PCs were purchased in early 2015 and both the clerk and treasurer are having issues with them. Too slow and freezing are some of the problems. Swanstrom motioned for Barnes to purchase two new computers at an appropriate amount in his judgment that will meet the needs of the treasurer and clerk, second by Dressen, motion carried, 3-0-0.
• FYI: Wallace and Barnes will be attending the Presidential Nomination Primary Election training on December 13 at the St. Louis County Courthouse. Wallace reported that St. Louis County Auditor’s Office capped the number of two election judges to attend the training due to space restriction. Wallace will train other election judges, when needed.
• Wallace proposed to appoint the following as election judges for all elections in 2020: Lita Wallace, Raymond Barnes and Bonnie Dressen. Swanstrom asked if all judges are affiliated with different parties. Wallace responded yes and are affiliated with a minimum of three political parties although not required to declare what their party’s affiliation is. Motion to approve by Dressen, second by Kuettel, motion carried, 3-0-0. Wallace will create the Resolution for signature during January 2020 meeting.
• March 2020 Township Election:  Public Notice will be posted by December 21 with more information on Township Election. Important dates:
  1. The opening is for a Supervisor position presently held by Donald Swanstrom;
  2. Candidate filing period: Tuesday, December 31, 2019 through Tuesday, January 14, 2020;
  3. Absentee voting period is Friday, February 7, 2020 through Monday, March 9, 2020
  4. Last day for voters to pre-register for March Township election is Tuesday, February 18, 2020. Voter Registration Applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. by St. Louis County Auditor’s Office;
  5. The last day to appoint election judges is February 14, 2020 with a Resolution and adding that “The clerk may make election judge appointments to fill vacancies should they occur.”

Correspondence

Received:

• Email from Secretary of State through Phil Chapman, Elections Supervisor, re-Notice of 2020 Presidential Nomination Primary to be conducted on March 3, 2020
• Email and postage mail from St. Louis County Land and Minerals Department (Stacy M.C. Melcher, Senior Planner) re-board resolution passing the approval of the special sale of land to the township pending final sale approval from DNR
• Emails from SLCAT (St. Louis County Association of Townships) with reminder for meetings from October 2019 to May 2020; October 2019 SLCAT Meeting Agenda; SLCAT Bus Reservation form for the November 2019 Annual MAT (Minnesota Association of Townships) Meeting in Mankato
• Email from MAT/MBA (Minnesota Benefit Association) re-communication changes to directly email officers by MAT sharing email addresses of officers with MBA
• Email from St Louis County re-election training for March 3, 2020 Presidential Nomination Primary Election for clerks and election judges and also verifying that townships had passed a Resolution designating location for the March 3 election
• Email from St Louis County Election providing registration for the March 3, 2020 election training
• Email from MAT with registration form for the November 22-23, 2019 Educational Conference and Annual Meeting in Mankato
• Email from St Louis County Election about the Notice of filing period and other pertinent information for the March 2020 Township election
• Email invitation from St. Louis County for officers to attend the Multi-Hazard Mitigation (MHMP) 2nd Planning Team Meeting on December 13, 2019 in either Duluth or Virginia
• Email from St. Louis County Planning and Community Development (Bradley Gustafson) re-the 2020 CDBG (Community Development Block Grant)
• Letter from St. Louis County Planning and Community Development Department re-proposed revisions for Zoning Ordinance 62 (STR) dated October 15, 2019

Sent:

• Email of Pequaywan Township recommendations re-Short Term Rental to St. Louis County Commissioner Paul McDonald
• Email to St. Louis County with completed form re-sale of land to the township

Public Comment:

• Short Term Rental: Lisa Klassen mentioned that the county’s Planning and Community Development Department held a hearing on October 10 and are planning to have another hearing on December 12. They are requesting more input for discussion at the December meeting. Klassen also mentioned that she was advised to request Pequaywan Township to create a Resolution for submission to St. Louis County by December 10. A long discussion ensued. Swanstrom commented that since the Town Board’s job is to enforce the property structure in our township, this issue should be discussed further. Due to a time constraint between the December 10 deadline to Pequaywan Township’s meeting also on December 10, a Special Town Meeting was suggested to be scheduled before December 10. The Agenda for the Special Town Meeting will be to create a Resolution putting in place a minimum requirements for the township to govern themselves in regards to STR’s. Swanstrom will contact a MAT (MN Association of Township) attorney to help define residential zoned vs allowing generating income STR’s that are popping in the township. Information for the Special Town Meeting will be posted in official posting places.

Next Meeting, December 10, 2019, 7:30 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall, 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road

Meeting adjourn at 9:15 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

Meeting was called to order at 7:35 p.m. by Chair Kuettel.

Attendance: Town Officers – Supervisor Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Supervisor Charles Kuettel, Treasurer Raymond G. Barnes, Clerk Lita Wallace.

Guests: Bonnie Dressen, Eric Hofstad, Lisa Klassen, Paul Klassen, Alex Olson, Kevin Olson, Deb Pomroy, Scott Mead, Ted Wallace

Clerk’s Report: The minutes of the Board of Supervisors meeting  on September 10, 2019 was presented and reviewed. Motion to approve with corrections by Dressen, second by Swanstrom, motion carried, 3-0-0.

Treasurer’s Report:

SEPTEMBER 2019
Total Funds on hand as of 09/01/2019 (Includes Investments) – $183,883.76
Plus: Deposits – $221.22
Less: Disbursements (September) – $15,252.11
Total Funds on hand as of 09/30/2019 – $168,852.87
September Check # 1472 – 1481

OCTOBER 2019
Claims (October) – $2351.81
October Check # 1482 – 1491
No Fund Transfers Needed

Old Business

• Land purchase from St. Louis County: email correspondence was sent to St. Louis County (Attn: Stacy Caldwell Melcher) by Kuettel on September 17 re-acceptance of offer to purchase the land parcel for the value around $5,100.00. As of today, no response has been received from St. Louis County.
• Road work at West Branch Road: repair of old pavement in West Branch Road has been completed by Elmquist.
• Short-term rental (STR): Per request from residents, Pequaywan Town Board sent a Letter of Recommendation signed by all supervisors to St. Louis County regarding STRs that applies to the township. Lisa Klassen commented that some of the recommendations by the Town Board was added by St. Louis County to its revised STR.
• Speed limit on Pequaywan Lake Road: Dressen reported that he is still waiting for a response from St. Louis County regarding his inquiry.
• Speed and weight limit on West Branch Road: Dressen presented a copy of the Resolution that he constructed but due to further discussions, the wording on the Resolution needs to be changed. New proposals were a speed limit of 35mph from the start of township road and change maximum weight limit to axle weight instead of tonnage.

New Business – None

Correspondence

Received:

• Invoice #205819 from St. Louis County Public Works Department for 1st half of 2019-2020 Snowplowing in the amount of $1,121.25
• Letter from St. Louis County Planning and Community Development re-Public Hearing for Zoning Ordinance 62 proposed Short Term Rental standards and amendments – meeting on October 10, 2019 at the St. Louis County Public Works Building, 7823 Highway 135, Virginia in the lower-level training room
• Letter from Minnesota Pollution Control Agency re-Proposed Amendments to Rules Governing Water Quality Standards – Class 2 and Class 7 Use Designations, Minnesota Rules chapter 7050
• Email from St. Louis County Election Department re-changes in designating a Polling Place by resolution or ordinance (Note from clerk: Resolution #2019-003, Designating a Polling Place for 2020 Election, completed in April 2019 and is posted on the township’s website)
• Email from St.Louis County Public Works Department reminding townships that requests for any work done by St. Louis County not covered by an active “Road Maintenance Agreement” be submitted in writing yearly to include sanding, thawing culverts, grading roads, etc.
• Email from Office of the State Auditor re-new Tax Tables updated in September 2019 to import to CTAS

Sent:

• Letter of Recommendation re-STR sent to St. Louis County
• Form filled out, signed and returned to St. Louis County re-CDBG Program Requalification, as requested

Public Comment:

• Picnic Shelter: Alex Olson showed a video of the construction of the Picnic Shelter from start to finish, and acquired board’s signature for Eagle Scout Application. Thank you Alex for your wonderful donation to the township!
• Broadband Grant Project: Kevin Olson of Cooperative Light and Power reported the following:
  (a.) CLP has submitted an application for Minnesota’s Border to Border Broadband Grant ($20 Million of available funds) in September.  The grant can provide up to 50 percent of a project’s infrastructure costs (project planning, permits, construction plant and labor, installation and testing, engineering, etc.). The maximum grant amount is $5 million.  Our defined project area is known as the Cloquet Valley and
  includes the townships of North Star, Fairbanks, Ault, Pequaywan, Normanna, Alden, Lakewood, Gnesen and two unorganized townships 53-15 and 54-13. It will also include the northeast corner of Rice Lake Township and a small southern portion of Bassett Township by Fairbanks and Bassett Lake. Basically it is the Hwy. 44 corridor from Island Lake to Bassett Lake.  This fiber-to-the-home project will include
  3,459 passings and increase currently available speeds of less than 25 Mbps to an ultra-fast 1 Gbps (1,000 Mbps);
  (b.) CLP, CTC, Gnesen and CVII have developed a true partnership to bring fiber-to-the home in our service territory. Because of the organizations’ efforts, rural residents will have the opportunity to work from home, safely stay in their homes longer, and increase communication options for area businesses and residents;
  (c.) Rural electric coops are uniquely positioned to provide Internet service to their existing customer base. The current stock of incumbent Internet service providers operate on a next-dollar profit model and are unlikely ever to serve the needs of  sparsely populated rural areas.
  (d.) Although we don’t know the size and scope of the other applications, we don’t expect any to offer high speed internet to as many Minnesotans as ours which is the State’s mandate for the Grant program. Our goal is to transform CLP into an electric and broadbandservices Co-Op which will improve the lives of our members and surrounding community.
  (e.) There are currently 78 applications successfully submitted for the 2019 Border to Border Broadband Development grant.

Next Meeting, November 12, 2019, 7:30 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall, 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road

Meeting adjourn at 8:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

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

Attendance: Town Officers – Supervisor Charles Kuettel , Supervisor Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Treasurer Raymond G. Barnes, Clerk Lita Wallace

Guests: Marialice  Arndt, Richard Arndt, Bonnie Drummond, Wes Haberger, Lisa Klassen, Paul Klassen, Gordy Larson, Jeffrey Maida, Greg Planting, Deb Pomroy, Charmin Thramer, Daryle Waldriff

Clerk’s Report : The minutes of the Board of Supervisors meeting  on August 13, 2019 was presented and reviewed. Motion by Swanstrom to approve the minutes, second by Dressen, motion carried, 3-0-0.

Treasurer’s Report

AUGUST 2019
Total Funds on hand as of 08/01/2019 (Includes Investments) – $176,126.36
Plus: Deposits – $8,056.35
Less: Disbursements (August) – $298.95
Total Funds on hand as of 08/31/2019 – $183,883.76
August Check # 1469 – 1471

SEPTEMBER 2019
Claims (September) – $15,252.11
September Check # 1472 – 1481
No Fund Transfers Needed

Old Business

• Land value for tax forfeited parcel south of Rossini Rd: St. Louis County (through communication from Stacy Melcher of Land and Minerals Department) valued the sale of 4.1 acre land to Pequaywan Township at ballpark of around $5,100.00. The parcel ID is 502-0020-02725. Discussion as to whether purchase it outright or other options (1) subsidy for 30-year use plan with rough cost of $1,000.00 plus small yearly cost and with restrictions; or (2) pursue a grant. After discussions that the land is needed to get access to a future burning pit and other improvements, with no restrictions on its use, and after confirming with the treasurer that the township has funds to purchase the land, Swanstrom motion to purchase the section of the land outright from Rossini Road to the township land for $5,100.00, second by Dressen, motion carried, 3-0-0.
• Picnic Table: The picnic table built and donated by Alex Olson through his work with Boy Scouts of America Eagle Board will be installed this weekend.
• Township property development: Dressen reported that he talked with Steve Nelson of St. Louis County Public Works and was told that the township qualifies for a grant from IRRRB in funding the construction of a Townhall Community Center on the township land. The county will contact IRRRB, help with the application, plan the building, critique, and determine the budget which will include running water, sewer and electricity. The township might need to fund about $35,000.00 of the cost.
• Coop Light broadband: Coop Light and Power applied for a $5M grant from the State. The new program will provide 1GB fiber to the home instead of the current 7MB. Wifi supports audio compare to what we have now that only supports text. If the $5M grant is approved, Pequaywan Township will be asked to donate $500.00 given to Cloquet Valley Internet Initiative. Other neighboring townships have confirmed support of CLP’s efforts. If CLP does not get the $5M from state, there are four other possible grants available if approved. CLP expects to break ground in 2020 with completion in 2022. Dressen motion to approve the $500.00 donation to Cloquet Valley Internet Initiative, second by Swanstrom, motion carried, 2-0-1.
• Speed and weight limits for township road: Dressen spoke with Victor Lund of St. Louis County Road Department who oversees the changes in road speed limits. The township can impose change in speed and weight limits but there will be no enforcement. The proposed changes are: maximum weight limit is 7 tons per axle and speed limit is 30 mph on the West Branch Road owned by the township. The changes are done to avoid damage to the newly reconstructed road. The cost of the sign is $150.00 which can show speed and weight limits on it and will be purchased from St. Louis County. Plow trucks, emergency vehicles and garbage trucks are exempted. Dressen will compose a Resolution for the changes in maximum weight of 7 tons per axle and speed limit of 30 mph.
• Speed limits for Pequaywan Lake Road: Residents voice concern on the danger in curved roads from oncoming cars not seen when trying to get out of driveways. Residents requested for the county to conduct a study to post caution signs on curve areas in Pequaywan Lake Road especially on those areas where driveways are on a curve.
• West Branch Road: Kuettel reported that the old pavement in West Branch Road is starting to crack, as well as new pavement. He added that Elmquist will be able to do the work for $1,500.00. Motion by Dressen to approve $1,500.00 cost of fixing the cracks, second by Kuettel, motion carried, 3-0-0.
• Township Land: Gordy Larson reported that he and Paul Klassen did some work on the township land: etched a road to get a trail up to  speed-completed 1/2 of all the trails in the wood, ripped out tree stumps, shoveled, raked and backhoed. There were no money involved except for fuel. He also reported that if the township would like to put in a culvert, the cost is $271.00. The township decided that a culvert is not needed at this time but big rocks should be put to block the road.

New Business

• Weed Inspector: Deb Pomroy reported that a study was conducted along Rossini Road and Pequaywan Lake Road and found Tansy , Leafy Spurge, Spotted Knapweed. Along the West Branch Road township property, Tansy, Spotted Knapweed, Japanese Barberry, Common Buckthorn and Alien Honeysuckle were found. Findings will be reported to St. Louis County.

Correspondence

Received:

• Mail from St. Louis County, Planning and Community Development Department re-Proposed Revision to St. Louis County Zoning Ordinance 62 (proposal to allow for the short term rental of properties through the issuance of permits in St. Louis County land use administered areas)
• Email and correspondence from St. Louis County requesting help with processing documents to avoid loss of CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) funding as required by HUD
• Email from St. Louis County Public Works re-continuation of the Aggregate Crushing, Maintenance Striping, Crack Sealing and Chip/Scrub Sealing Programs.

Sent:

• Wallace submitted the Presidential Nominating Primary Expense Reimbursement Estimate to St. Louis County to be incurred during the Presidential Primary Election on March 3, 2020 in the amount of $1,243.70
• Wallace also reported that the Township Final Levy Certification form for taxes payable 2020 has been submitted to St. Louis County Auditor’s Office

Public Comment:

• Property and access/service road: Greg Planting built a pole building to replace an old one on the same location and found out afterwards that it was a roadway. Since it is a dead end road and ends in his property, he is requesting if he can vacate the road, nobody owns any property on the three sides of his property. Dressen expressed that there would be no problem cooperating if it does not interfere with anyone else and if it is in conformity with the county. Planting stated that he has a copy of the Minnesota Statute for his request and will review it.
• Short-term rental (STR): A resident expressed concerns on short-term rentals in Pequaywan Township. She is requesting for the township’s help in sending a letter to St. Louis County that is asking communities to submit in writing concerns, comments or input regarding short term rental (STR) regulations with a deadline date of September 30, 2019. Some issues she is requesting to be covered are: classifying STRs as commercial property, limitation on the number of guests and STRs owned; restriction on renters putting their own watercraft in the lake; requiring owners to provide watercraft for renters. Dressen clarified that the township does not have any zoning authority but has taxing authority. Kuettel agreed to write a letter of suggestion regarding STR concerns by Pequaywan Lake residents.
• Burning pit in township property is badly needed as people are dumping brush and garbage towards the end of West Branch Road.

Next Meeting, October 8, 2019, 7:30 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall, 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road

Meeting was adjourned at 9:50 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

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

Attendance:
Town Officers Present: Supervisor Douglas Dressen, Supervisor Charles Kuettel, Treasurer Raymond G. Barnes, and Clerk Lita Wallace.
Town Officer Absent: Donald Swanstrom.
Guests: Bonnie Dressen, John Flanagan, Dorothy Galinski, Wes Haberger, Jim Hacking, Lee Kaplan, Paul and Lisa Klassen, Scott Mead, Deb Pomroy, Judy Strom, Tom and Kathy Sykes, Daryle Waldriff, Ted Wallace and John A. Wilson.

Clerk’s Report : The minutes of the Board of Supervisors meeting  on July 9, 2019 was presented and reviewed. Motion by Dressen to approve with correction on spelling of Swanstrom’s name, second by Kuettel, motion carried. 2-0-0.

Treasurer’s Report

JULY 2019

Total Funds on hand as of 07/01/2019 (Includes Investments) – $158,720.98
Plus: Deposits – $18,744.67
Less: Disbursements (July) – $1,339.29
Total Funds on hand as of 07/31/2019 – $176,126.36
July Check # 1463- 1468

AUGUST 2019

Claims (August) – $298.95
August Check # 1469 – 1471
No Fund Transfers Needed

Dressen motion to approve the July Treasurer’s Report and August Claims, second by Dressen, motion carried, 2-0-0.

Old Business

• West Branch Road Update: Kuettel reported that the project has been completed. The payment to Elmquist Sand and Gravel was for a total of $14,389.55 (original contract $13,800 + extra work $989.88; i.e., grass covering, mesh, and plant seeds). Kuettel also mentioned that there may be culverts that will need repair in the future.

New Business

• Speed Limit – Dressen reported that to preserve the road in West Branch Road, the township can put weight restriction and/or decrease the speed limit. If driveways are 75 feet apart or closer, speed limit can go down to 35 along the county road.
• Broadband internet service – Dressen will attend a meeting scheduled this month. Cooperative Light and Power is looking for matching funds to support the program.
• Township Resolution webpage – Wallace reported that a new webpage for Town Resolutions was created to accommodate the increasing number of resolutions and two new resolutions were posted this month.
• Township Final Levy Certification Form for taxes payable 2020 – Wallace reported that the form will be mailed this week. Deadline is September 30, 2019.
• Presidential Nominating Primary Expense Reimbursement Estimate – the State of Minnesota will reimburse townships, cities and counties for all expenses incurred during the Presidential Primary Election on March 3, 2020. St Louis County is requesting an estimate of expenses. Wallace prepared an estimate in the amount of $1,243.70 which will be submitted to the county before the August 15, 2019 deadline.
• Presidential Primary Election polling hours – March 3, 2020 at Pequaywan Firehall from 7:00 a.m. to 8::00 p.m.
• Laptop – Barnes reported that both laptops are about five years old and are giving trouble to both the treasurer and clerk. Barnes’ laptop is too slow and Wallace is having problem with CTAS freezing every data entry.
• Variance Request Permit Application for landowner Gregory Planting – will put on hold until supervisors can review the correspondence.

Received

• 2019 Minnesota Election Laws Book
• Email from St. Louis County Election Department re-Presidential Primary Election and requesting township to submit expense reimbursement estimate for the election
• Letter from St. Louis County Auditor’s Office with enclosure of the blank form of the Township Final Levy Certification form for taxes payable 2020. Form is due to the county by September 30, 2019.

Sent:   None

Public Comment:

• Scott Mead discussed DNR’s plan for public access to Pequaywan Lake. A suggestion was made to pressure DNR to allow only carry-in to avoid getting the lake infested with invasive species. We must help maintain the pristine lake. Another suggestion was to create a committee that can be called “Save Our Lake Association.” Judy Strom added that Pequaywan Lake Association has been monitoring the issue.
• Walking Trail: Lee Kaplan mentioned that the township might want in the future to consider spraying non-toxic salt pellet on the township land to kill weeds. 50 lbs would cover 100 feet.
• Judy Strom suggested that in lieu of a burnt pile, the township can hire a chipper and residents can then bring their pile. Location will be in an area on the township land. Charge for the chipper is $200 per hour. Maybe designate a time; i.e., 9:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m. for a total of $800.00. Pequaywan Lake Association will chip in and charge $10.00 per family. A cheaper way is suggested to have residents bring their pile, then have the chipper come on a different day to do the chipping. Kuettel was hesitant to schedule it this year due to safety issues for a vehicle with trailer as there is no place to turn around. He is waiting for the County Assessor to tell him the price of the property that the township is hoping to acquire from the county. Hopefully, by next spring.
• Short Term Rentals:There was discussion about concerns for the quality of our lakes and disruption to neighbors and negative impact that short term rentals have in our area. Some of the suggestions were to require a buffer/privacy fence, at the rental owner’s expense. Also, to require a one week minimum stay for guests to reduce turnover and disruption to the neighborhood. St. Louis County is asking the community to submit in writing concerns, comments or input regarding short term rental (STR) regulations to: Planning and Community Development, Northland Office Center, 307 1st Street South, Suite 117, Virginia MN 55792. Deadline to submit is September 30, 2019. Contact person is Jenny Bourbonais at bournaisj@stlouiscountymn.gov or 218-749-0629.

Next Meeting, September 10, 2019, 7:30 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall, 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road

Meeting was adjourned at 9:07 p.m

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk