Category: Minutes

The meeting was called to order at 8:50 p.m. by Chair Donald Swanstrom.

Attendance:

Board members: Chair Donald Swanstrom, Vice-Chair Scott Mead, Supervisor Charles Kuettel, Treasurer Raymond G. Barnes, Clerk Lita Wallace

Number of resident/s present: 9
Number of non-resident present: 1

Clerk’s Report

Motion to approve July Minutes by Mead, second by Kuettel, motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report

JULY 2018

Total Cash on hand as of 07/01/2018 – $255,161.49
Plus: Deposits – $19,770.49
Less Disbursements (July) – $1388.31
Total Cash on hand as of 07/31/2018 – $273,543.67
July Check # 1354 – 1362

AUGUST 2018

Claims – $5514.49
August Check # 1363 – 1373

Motion to approve July Treasurer’s Report and August Claims by Mead, second by Kuettel, motion carried.

Old Business

• Countywide Comprehensive Plan – Mead went to the meeting and reported that if a township has a comprehensive plan, the county will work with the township. If not, the county will decide for the township. If we ever need assistance, there are grants available but we will need a comprehensive plan and an outside moderator to represent us.
• Burnt Pile – Since we do not have a gravel pit this year, we can piggy back on North Star’s burnt pile but it is maxed out right now. We can also make arrangements later if they make a burn. Another possibility is a burn pit north of North Star FD but it will be expensive as they require that both North Star and Pequaywan Fire Departments be present during the burn. As of this time, still unsure about the possibility of using the firefit in Rossini. It will depend on the county.
• Township Land – Motioned by Kuettel, seconded by Mead to spray Poplar trees from the 34 acres of township land @ $90 per acre, estimate total of $3,060.00 by the company, Future Forest. Furthermore, Mead mentioned that DNR suggested to plant Red Pine and White Pine instead of Maple and Oak. Mead also mentioned that he will research more about replacement trees.

New Business

• Wallace requested for approval to train election judges (Bonnie Dressen, Marialice Arndt and Daryle Waldriff) – Motion by Kuettel, second by Mead, motion carried.
• Wallace requested to appoint election judges/head election judge for the November General Election (Katherine Sluka, Bonnie Dressen, Lita Wallace) – motion by Swanstrom, second by Kuettel, motion carried.

Correspondence

Received:

• Letter from St. Louis County Office of the Sheriff stating that the physical address assigned to the township land is 8914 Pequaywan Lake Road Duluth MN 55803
• Letter from St. Louis County Planning and Community Development Department re-permits issued for the 1st half of 2018
• Email from St. Louis County Office of the Sheriff requesting townships and cities affected by storms from June 16 to July 12 to submit damage assessment
• Email from St. Louis County Elections stating ballots and other election materials are ready for pick-up
• Email from Minnesota@openbooks.com housed in Boca Raton, Florida requesting payroll information of employees under Minnesota Data Practice Act. Barnes mentioned that North Star also received the same request and it is kind of fishy. We will need to verify the company so this will be put on hold.
• Map of the township from St. Louis County

Sent:

• Email to St. Louis County Elections re-Katherine Sluka’s certificate for completion of election training on July 26, 2018

Public Comment

• John Wilson, a resident of the township, provided documents that he acquired from the county, regarding the history of sale from his father to the township. In lieu of an announcement by Pequaywan Lakes Association that it was purchased from his father, John is requesting a correction statement that “The land was donated by his father but to make it legal, a dollar amount is required. So, the land was gifted for $1.00. John is also requesting for a plaque to be placed on the land in honor of his father. He is willing to pay for it, maybe something made of  aluminum stand on a concrete floor. Mead motion, Kuettel second, motion carried.

Next Meeting:

Tuesday, September 11, 7:30 p.m., Pequaywan Fire Department, 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road

Mead motion to adjourn at 10:00 p.m., second by Kuettel, motion carried.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

Call to Order: Meeting was called to order at 7:32 p.m. by Chair Don Swanstrom.

Attendance: Board members: Chair Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor Scott Mead, Supervisor Charles Kuettel, Treasurer Raymond G. Barnes, Clerk Lita Wallace. Number of resident/s present: 6, Number of non-resident/s present: 1

Clerk’s Report: Minutes of June meeting was presented and reviewed. Motioned by Mead to approve minutes, seconded by Kuettel, motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report: Barnes reported the following:

JUNE 2018

Total Cash on hand as of 06/01/2018 – $255,857.70
Plus: Deposits – $218.17
Less Disbursements (June) – $914.38
Total Cash on hand as of 06/30/2018 – $255,161.49
June Check # 1347 – 1353

JULY 2018
Claims (July) – $1388.31
July Check # 1354 – 1362

Swanstrom motioned to approve June Treasurer’s Report and July Claims, seconded by Kuettel, motion carried.

Old Business

• Road construction in West Branch Road – the county part is tore up, waiting to hear from the contractor when they will start construction on the township part
• Township land – discussion on what to do with the land continues. The township would like Pequaywan Lakes Association to continue to take the lead in the discussions, suggestions, involvement, and volunteerism in any work that may be requested. Any work that will be done will have the township and the association involved. The township will request the association to communicate the information to the residents via their webpage and letter to homes both signed by the township and Pequaywan Lakes Association.With the Pequaywan Lake Association’s proposal to earmark money for walking trail and driveway,  Swanstrom motioned to authorize $2000 for expenses in the construction of a trail and cost of culvert plus installation, seconded by Kuettel, motion carried. After further discussions and determining $2000 is not enough, Kuettel motioned to amend the amount to $3000, Mead seconded, motion carried.Mead motioned to contract  Daryl Waldrif at $75 per hour to prep the driveway for the culvert installation and roughing-in of the trail. Waldrif will let the board know when that will be done.A permit is needed to put up a driveway and before a permit is issued, an address for the town property is needed.  Mead has been working with St. Louis County and other government entities on acquiring an address.
• Tree spraying/planting – Mead mentioned that the cost for spraying will be $90 per acre and spraying will be done at the end of the summer and before leaves fall by Future Forest. A DNR Forester recommended commercial tree planting. Mead contacted DNR if there will be cost-sharing for the cost of the trees and was advised that the answer is “no” since the township does not pay taxes.
• Frontier Communications construction – the approval letter to do construction has been mailed and will wait to hear from Frontier when construction will start on installing fiber optic.
• St Louis County Comprehensive Land Use Plan – Mead is concerned that the county is taking away the authority of townships. He is planning to attend the meeting in August.
• Reminder: Primary Election, Tuesday, August 14, 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall
• St. Louis County Planning and Community Development re-August Board of Adjustment, variance application for a property located in the township for review – the county is asking a resolution outlining the town’s response to the variance request. A hearing date will be set up at a later date. The board is uncertain what the county wanted the board to do since the old home was tore down and a new one being built. Mead is going to the property and talk to the workers onsite and check what they are doing.
• MN Department of Revenue Board of Appeal and Equalization re-availability of LBAE online training – Kuettel attended the Summer Short Course last May and completed the LBAE training which is good for four years.
• Timely reporting of training compensation and reimbursements to the treasurer – Barnes requested the board to submit any training and work hours compensation as they occur for a timely payment.
• Public Accuracy Test/Automark – For townships with less than 500 registered voters, publication of Public Accuracy Test for the Automark in newspapers is no longer required. However, a Public Notice must be posted in the town’s posting boards.
• Appointing Deputy Clerk – Wallace requested if the board can hire Marialice Arndt as a Deputy Clerk to cover taking minutes during her absence. Barnes mentioned that the Deputy Clerk must also be able to perform CTAS data entry and other clerk duties. However, she is only willing to take meeting minutes and not other duties. Therefore, instead of hiring a Deputy Clerk, Swanstrom motioned to hire Marialice Arndt as a substitute to take and type meeting minutes during the clerk’s absence with salary of $25 per meeting, seconded by Mead, motion carried
• Online Election Judge Training Module – The county has a training module that clerks can use in training election judges in the amount of $9.90. Wallace is requesting use of the module to train new judges. Motioned by Mead, seconded by Kuettel, motion carried.

Correspondence

Received:

• Email from St.Louis Co Planning and Community Development re-August Board of Adjustment – variance application for a property located in the township for review
• Email from MN Department of Revenue Board of Appeal and Equalization re-availability of LBAE online training
• Information on Summer Specialized Election Training for Clerks from Minnesota Association of Townships – Wallace attended the training in May
• Request for Assessment search from a title company

Sent: Wallace responded to the Assessment search request by the title company that the township does not conduct assessments and for them to contact St. Louis County.

Public Comments:

• A resident inquired if it was true that DNR’s access to Pequaywan Lake will happen next year. The board responded that they never heard of it.
• Problem of phone service in the area. Other residents commented that they don’t have a problem, others do.
• A resident asked if the town will be getting any income. Barnes responded that the town received $18,000.00 from the county on July 3rd for tax levy which will appear in next month’s treasurer’s report.

Next Meeting:

August 14, 8:30 p.m., Pequaywan Fire Department, 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road

Due to the Primary Election held on August 14 until 8:00 p.m.,, meeting will start at 8:30 p.m. or after ballots are counted and reported to St. Louis County.

Mead motioned to adjourn at 8:50 p.m., seconded by Kuettel, motion carried.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

Call to Order: Meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Chair Don Swanstrom.

Present: Chair Don Swanstrom, Supervisor Scott Mead, Supervisor Charles Kuettel, Treasurer Ray Barnes and Clerk Lita Wallace. Others in attendance: three residents and one non-resident.

Clerk’s Report: Minutes of May meeting was presented and reviewed. Motioned by Mead to approve minutes, second by Kuettel, motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report: Barnes reported the following:

May 2018
Total Cash on hand as of 05/01/2018 – $256,601.06
Plus: Deposits – $221.66
Less Disbursements (May) – $965.02
Total Cash on hand as of 05/31/2018 – $255,857.70
May Check # 1337 – 1346

June 2018
Claims (June) – $914.38
June Check # 1347 – 1353

Kuettel motioned to approve May treasurer’s report and June 2018 Claims, seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried.

Old Business

• Primary Election: Tuesday, August 14, 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Pequaywan Firehall
• Township Property: Mead reported that spraying will be done this summer to kill the new Poplar growth. The County is presently logging on the county land adjacent to the township property. Pequaywan Association discussed during their last meeting that now is the best time to develop the land following feedback from the community such as creating a hiking trail; installing bench seats; play area for badminton, bean bag toss; building a Community Center. Location for the Community Center will have to be determined that will dictate next step for its development. Solar panel would be most beneficial. The township needs access to the township land through the county land. Mead motioned Gordy Larson, a resident, to have the authority to act for the township in requesting entry from St. Louis County.

New Business

• Approval of election judges for Primary Election – Wallace recommended the following to serve: Katherine Sluka and Robert McDonough as election judges and Lita Wallace as Head Election Judge. Kuettel motioned to approve, second by Mead, motion carried.
• Due to Primary Election on the same day of the town meeting, August town meeting move to start at 8:30 p.m or after the ballots are counted
• Deb Pomroy has agreed to be the Weed Inspector for the township and offered a salary that is the same as what the treasurer and clerk receives, will work the minimum hours required by the State or 10 hours. Pomroy will devise a plan on areas to work on the time allotted. Scot motioned to approve, second  by Kuettel, motion carried.
• Chinese mystery snail has been reported seen at Little Pequaywan Lake which was also reported to the Deparment of Natural Resources.

Correspondence

Received:

• Bill from Minnesota Association of Townships for Summer Short Course Registration-$100
• Email from St. Louis County Assessor’s Office: Minutes of Pequaywan Township LBAE meeting on May 9
• Email from St. Louis County: List of 2018 Party Election Judge List
• Email from Elections Department: Instructions and forms to use for candidate filings
• Email from Elections Department: Election training schedule for clerks and election judges (train the trainer)
• Email and postage mail from SLCAT (St. Louis County Association of Townships) : 2018 Annual Meeting Minutes
• MN Association of Townships: Insider Magazine
• Mail from St. Louis Co Planning: Comprehensive Land Use Plan – Draft Goals and Objectives
• Mail from Minnesota State Demographic Center re-2017 Population and Household Estimates
• Mail from Mid-State Consultants re-Frontier Communications work in West Branch Road

Sent: Two letters to residents re-LBAE appeal

Public Comment: None

Next Meeting: July 10, 2018, 7:30 p.m., Pequaywan Fire Department, 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road

Motion to Adjourn– Kuettel motioned to adjourn at 8:30 p.m., second by Mead, motion carried.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

Call to Order: Meeting was called to order at 7:34 p.m. by Chair Don Swanstrom.

Present: Chair Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor Scott Mead, Supervisor Charles Kuettel, Treasurer Ray Barnes and Clerk Lita Wallace. Others in attendance: two residents and one non-resident.

Clerk’s Report: Minutes of April meeting was presented and reviewed. Motioned by Mead to approve minutes, seconded by Kuettel, with corrections,  motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report: Barnes reported the following:

APRIL 2018:
Total Cash on hand as of 04/01/2018 – $259,081.38
Plus: Deposits – $217.78
Less Disbursements (April) – $2,698.10
Total Cash on hand as of 04/30/2018 – $256,601.06
April Check # 1329 – 1336

Swanstrom motioned to approve April Treasurer’s Report, seconded by Mead, motion carried.

MAY 2018
Claims (May) – $965.02
May Check # 1337 – 1346

Old Business

• Reminder: LBAE (Local Board of Appeals & Equalization) meeting scheduled May 9, 5-6 p.m. Pequaywan Fire Department

New Business

• Approval of May 2018 Claims – Swanstrom motioned to approve May 2018 Claims, seconded by Mead, motion carried.
• Discussion on the closed access of the county gravel pit and possible future use of the Township land – Richard Arndt, a resident (who in 2006 had volunteered to administer the  brush pile in the county land in agreement with Pequaywan Township, Pequaywan Fire & EMS and Pequaywan Lakes  Association), presented that Randy Roff, St. Louis County Forester, advised him that the township can no longer use the gravel pit for brush pile due to the upcoming road construction this year. They will be using it for their equipment and machinery. Mead then  motioned not to have Brush Day this year, Kuettel seconded, motion carried. Public announcement will be posted in posting places that there will be no Brush Day in 2018 and residents must not bring brush to the gravel pit. Also, request the Pequaywan Lakes Association assistance in contacting residents via email and/or website.
• Discuss process for determining action to be taken on township property – suggestions were: a walking path, fire pit, and  community garden.
• LBAE online training for board members available on July 1
• General Election for federal and state offices is scheduled on November 6, 2018 at Pequaywan Firehall starting at 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.
• Tree Planting – Mead reported that it will take 1-2 years to have new growth in the town property which can be sprayed with herbicide this year to kill the new growth We can use the contractor, Future Forest, that St. Louis County uses, cost is $75 per acre to spray herbicide. By 2019, new trees could be planted and depending on what kind of tree, cost will run from $400.00 to $750.00 per acre. For long range planning, we would like to have Pequaywan Lakes Association be involved. Mead will talk with its leadership and discuss this issue further at next meeting.
• Weed Inspector – Barnes reminded the importance of complying with weed inspection according to a MN Statute and must be conducted by a professional. Swanstrom is the weed inspector but he said that he does not have a background for it. He motioned to hire a professional weed inspector and inspect the minimum required 10-15 hours. Mead seconded, motion carried.

Correspondence

Wallace reported the correspondences received during this month:

1. May 2018 Update Newsletter (via email) from Minnesota Association of Towships re-Events and Trainings, Legislative Updates, schedule of free septic system and well management workshops from UMD and MDH (see list of workshops below)
2. Email from St. Louis County Elections Department re-instruction to post 2018 Notice of General Election listing positions for election on November 6
3. Email from St. Louis County Elections Department re-delivery of Automark/M100 to St. Louis County for maintenance
4. Email from SLCAT (St. Louis County Association of Townships) – minutes of April meeting and notice of Annual Meeting and Election of Officers on May 23 at Cotton Community Center
5. Email from a resident for real estate appeal
6. Bill from Minnesota Association of Townships for $50, registration for Spring Short Course attendance

Sent: None

Public Comment: None 

Next Meeting: June 12, 2018, 7:30 p.m., Pequaywan Fire Department, 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road

 Motion to Adjourn – Mead motioned to adjourn at 8:30 p.m., seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

====================================================================

Free septic system and well management workshops from UMN and MDH

The University of Minnesota Onsite Sewage Treatment Program and the Minnesota Department of Health are offering FREE septic system and private well homeowner education classes across Minnesota.

The classes will cover the basics of how septic systems function, well water testing, and how to help protect your well from contamination sources. It will also provide property owners information on chemicals of emerging concern (CEC) including pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and the potential impact on ground and surface water. Information on proper maintenance of both septic systems and private drinking water systems will be covered to help property owners protect their investments and the environment. A representative from the county will be present to answer any questions you may have related to the local ordinance and related programs.

Below is the list of locations and local contacts for more information:

May 9, 2018

Douglas County Lake Association
2:00pm
Douglas County Public Works
526 Willow Dr, Alexandria, MN
Contact: Pat Schultz, email: pats@co.douglas.mn.us / Phone: 320-762-3868

June 5, 2018
Lake County
6:00pm
Law Enforcement Center
613 Third Avenue, Two Harbors, MN
Contact: Emily Nelson, Email: emily.nelson@co.lake.mn.us / Phone: 651-249-5868 / Christine McCarthy,
Email: christinem.mccarthy@co.lake.mn.us \ Phone: 218 -834-8322. www.lakecountyswcd.org

June 6, 2018
Cook County
9:00am
Firehall
7401 Gunflint Trail, Grand Marais, MN
Contact: Irene Mullen, Email: lmullen001@msn.com, cookcountycola.mnlakesandrivers.org/

June 6, 2018
Cook County
6:00pm
Grand Marais Community Center
317 W. 5th Street, Grand Marais, MN
Contact: Irene Mullen: Email: lmullen001@msn.com
cookcountycola.mnlakesandrivers.org/

June 14, 2018
Kandiyohi County
5:30pm
Kandiyohi County Health and Human Services Building
2200 23rd Street NE Willmar, MN
Contact: Eric VanDyken, Email: eric_v@co.kandiyohi.mn.us / Phone: 320-905-4489, 320-231-6229, ext. 5257

June 28, 2018
Itasca Waters
6:00pm
Wabana Town Hall
36463 Hunter Drive, Grand Rapids, MN
Contact: Patty Gould St. Aubin, Email: pgs@mchsi.com / Phone: 218-259-1603
itascawaters.org/

October 2, 2018
Washington County
5:30pm
Hooley Hall
12300 40th St N, Stillwater, MN
Contact: Stephanie Souter, Kati Hallerman Email: Kati.Hallermann@co.washington.mn.us / Stephanie.Souter@co.washington.mn.us / Phone: 651-430-6655 www.co.washington.mn.us/septic

November 6, 2018
Dakota County
6:00pm
Extension & Conservation Center
4100 220th Street W Ste 101, Farmington, MN
Contact: Emily Gable, Email: emily.gable@co.dakota.mn.us / Phone: 952-891-7008
www.co.dakota.mn.us/Environment/WaterQuality/SepticSystem

March 7, 2019
Blue Earth County/Nicollet County
5:30pm
Blue Earth Government Center
410 South 5th Street, Mankato, MN
Contact: Pete Otterness, Email: Pete.Otterness@co.nicollet.mn.us / Phone: 507-934-7076

Call to Order: Meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Chair Scott Mead.

Present: Chair-Supervisor Scott Mead, Supervisor Donald Swanstrom, Supervisor Charles Kuettel, Treasurer Ray Barnes and Clerk Lita Wallace. Others in attendance: two residents and one non-resident.

Oath of Office for newly elected supervisor: Kuettel was sworn-in.

Clerk’s Report: Minutes of March meeting was presented and reviewed. Motioned by Mead to approve minutes, seconded by Swanstrom. motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report

MARCH 2018

Total Cash on hand as of 03/01/2018 – $255,086.58
Plus: Deposits – $5,324.14
Less Disbursements (March) – $1,329.34
Total Cash on hand as of 03/31/2018 – $259,081.38
March Check # 1318 – 1328

Mead motioned to approve March Treasurer’s Report, seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried.

APRIL 2018

Claims (April) – $2,698.10
April Check # 1329 – 1336

Old Business

• Reminder: LBAE (Local Board of Appeals & Equalization) meeting scheduled May 9, 5-6 p.m. Pequaywan Fire Department
• Update on a 2-day seminar attended by Mead on February 29 to March 1 – In January, approved reimbursement was for $300.00 but actual expenses for hotel and registration fee was $473.00. Swanstrom motioned to approve reimbursement of $473.00, seconded by Kuettel, motion carried.
• Notary stamp purchase for clerk to serve as Ex-Officio Notary for town business as required by Stat. § 358.15 – Wallace explained that town clerks simply by virtue of holding the office can notarize town documents and administer oaths of office. Cost will be approximately $30.00. Mead motioned to approve, seconded by Kuettel, motion carried.
• A representative from  KTM Paving presented their proposal for repair of West Branch Road and a contract for signature. There are six sections for the project. Mead motioned to accept the contract in the amount of $98,700.00, seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried. Start date is weather oriented but confirmed that it will be completed before August 2018. Refer to the contract for information on the project.

New Business

• Approval of April 2018 Claims – Swanstrom motioned to approve April claims in the amount of $2,698.10 which includes a bill from St. Louis County for snowplowing, seconded by Kuettel, motion carried.
• Correction of clerk salary while performing election judge duties – Wallace explained that during the Spring Short Course attended, the trainer mentioned that since election is part of the clerk’s duties, clerks should receive a clerk wage during elections and not election judge pay. This is specified in Chapter 4 of the Township Manual. Mead motioned to approve correction of clerk salary while performing duties as election judge, seconded by Kuettel, motion carried.
• Clarification as to the last day of office of outgoing board officer – the outgoing board officer shall serve until the next annual election, when a successor is elected, and sworn-in to office
• Swanstrom was voted and accepted to serve as Chair from April 2018-March 2019
• Mead was voted and accepted to serve as Vice-Chair in the absence of the Chair
• Kuettel will be made co-signer for the bank account and to remove outgoing supervisor Lee Kaplan

Correspondence Received

• Bill from St. Louis County Public Works Department for plowing West Branch Road in the amount of $1,006.25
• Three requests from Abstract companies re-assessment search – Wallace called or emailed them that the township does not conduct assessment
• Email from the Office of the State Auditor encouraging payments from the state via electronic fund transfer – Barnes reported that the township had already been receiving payments via electronic fund transfer
• Email SLCAT (St. Louis Co. Association of Township) February Minutes
• Emails from St. Louis Co. Election Department re-requirements for designation or change of polling locations; dates of election training for Election Clerk and Election Judge; and Order of Succession in emergency elections plan form to be completed and returned to the Election Department – Wallace will attend the Election Clerk Training (June 15) and Election Judge Training (July 20) at St Louis County in Duluth. The Election Judge Training’s purpose is to train the trainer, meaning, the clerk will in turn train the election judges.

Correspondence Sent

• Election position Order of Succession form sent to St Louis County as required – this is a list of Pequaywan town election judges
• Levy form for 2019 has been mailed and confirmed received by St. Louis County: General Fund – $4,890.00; Fire and EMS – $13,500.00; Road and Bridge (Ongoing Maintenance) – $1,650.00; Road and Bridge (Capital Reserve) – $9,960.00 totaling $30,000.00 as approved during Annual Meeting

Public Comment: KTM will provide free estimate for private driveway work. Contact info: 218-729-1446.

Next Meeting: May 8, 2018, 7:30 p.m., Pequaywan Fire Department, 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road

Motion to Adjourn – Mead motioned to adjourn at 8:30 p.m., seconded by Swanstrom, motion carried.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

Call to Order: Meeting was called to order at 8:47 p.m. by Chair Scott Mead.

Present: Chair-Supervisor Scott Mead, Supervisor Lee Kaplan, Supervisor Don Swanstrom, Treasurer Ray Barnes and Clerk Lita Wallace. Others in attendance: twelve residents and one non-resident.

Clerk’s Report: Minutes of February meeting was presented and reviewed. Motioned by Swanstrom to approve the minutes, Scott Mead seconded,  motion carried unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report:

February 2018 Treasurer’s Report

Total Cash on hand as of 02/01/2018 – $252,476.49
Plus: Deposits – $3,881.38
Less Disbursements (February) – $1,271.29
Total Cash on hand as of 02/28/2018 – $255,086.58
February Check # 1314 – 1317

Mead motioned to approve the February Treasurer’s Report, seconded by Lee, motion carried unanimously.

March 2018 Treasurer’s Report

Claims (March) – $1,329.34
March Check # 1318 – 1328

Old Business

• Update on KTM Paving repair of West Branch Road – KTM estimated the cost to be under $100,000.00 for raising, filling, and to black top the road. The price also includes culvert work.
• Reminder: LBAE (Local Board of Appeals & Equalization) meeting scheduled May 9, 5-6 p.m. Pequaywan Fire Department
• Result of 2018 Town Election: Charles Kuettel won the election for supervisor position
• Approved Levy as discussed at the Annual Town Meeting was $30,000.00 with $13,500.00 going to Pequaywan Fire Department

New Business

• Approval of March 2018 Claims – Motioned and seconded,  motion carried unanimously.
• Spring Short Courses – Town officers interested in attending can register themselves and will be reimbursed.

Correspondence Received

• Email from U.S. Census Bureau re-Boundary and Annexation Survey
• Letter from Frontier Communications asking permission to locate, construct, operate and maintain telephone facilities along Lake Street.
• Two Absentee Ballots from resident voters by postage mail
• Email of Township Roster and Master List from St. Louis County Election Department for town election and form to complete and submit an updated list and contact information of town officers
• Email from St. Louis County Public Works re-Beaver Control Program Clarification
• Newsletter Email from Minnesota Association of Townships re- Annual Town Meeting, March Elections, Spring Short Courses and Lobby Days
• Letter from Minnesota Association of Townships re-form to complete and submit an updated list and contact information of town officers
• Minutes of January 2018 meeting from St. Louis County Association of Townships
• Letter from Century Link re-plans for 2018 Construction Season

Correspondence Sent

• Barnes completed and sent the Office of State Auditor required annual financial reporting of town activities to the State
• Mead completed and submitted the U.S. Census Bureau’s request for Boundary and Annexation Survey
• Mead completed and sent a response to Frontier Communications

Public Comment

Next Meeting: April 10, 2018, 7:30 p.m., Pequaywan Fire Department, 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road

Motion to Adjourn: Kaplan motion to adjourn at 9:30 p.m., second by Swanstrom,  motion carried unanimously.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

Meeting called to order: Clerk  Lita Wallace called the meeting to order at 8:15 p.m.  Phyllis Mead was nominated to be moderator, none opposed. The annual meeting was held at Pequaywan Firehall  with 15 residents and one non-resident present.

Reading of minutes of previous year’s annual meeting minutes: Minutes of the 2017 Annual Meeting was presented and reviewed. Correction on 2017 Annual Minutes is the name of the recycling company which is Wastewood Recyclers. Motioned by Judy Strom to approve the minutes as amended, seconded by Doug Nelson, none opposed, motion carried.

Board of Audit Report: posted at Pequaywan Fire Department bulletin board.

Result of Town Election – one supervisor position: Position open was for a supervisor position. There were 20 votes for Charles Kuettel and one write-in for Bonnie Dressen.

Road Report – West Branch Road repair update: (1) The county required the widening of the turnaround and refuse to plow if not done. The estimate was $23,000 but ended up with an actual bill of $15,900. (2) West Branch Road has 6 problematic spots that needed repair. KTM estimated the cost to be under $100,000.00 for raising, filling, and to black top the road. The price also includes culvert work.

Report from Pequaywan Fire & EMS: Steve Pelto reported that there were three fire calls and 8-9 medical calls. They received a grant of $247,000 from the federal government to purchase a new fire and rescue truck. They will get rid of the old fire truck by donating to another fire department that has no funds to purchase one.

Annual Board of Appeals and Equalization date: scheduled on May 9, 2018, 5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. at  Pequaywan Fire Hall

Set the levy:  Lee Kaplan motioned to set the levy for taxes at $30,000 for 2019, seconded by Charles Kuettel, none opposed, motion carried. $13,500 of the levy will go towards Pequaywan Fire Department, , all yay, none opposed, motion carried.

Suggestions/discussions on possible projects for the land owned by the township in Rossini Road:  Some suggestions were (1) build a walking path with volunteer work and using wood chips; (2) spray and kill off poplar trees and plant better trees; (3) develop a community garden with accessible water (check if there is a grant we can access for fencing, electricity, top soil, contact Coop Light)

Citizen Comments: Kathy Sluka, one of the election judges, question about creating am election sign for posting outside. It was determined that the Town Board is responsible for purchasing it.

Set voting hours and place:
7:00 a.m.8:00 p.m., Primary and General Election, Pequaywan Firehall
10:00 a.m.8:00 p.m., Special Primary and Special General Election, Pequaywan Fire Hall
5:00 p.m.8:00 p.m., Township Election, Pequaywan Fire Hall

Monthly meeting date/time – Second Tuesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at Pequaywan Firehall

Annual Meeting date/time – Second Tuesday in March following the Town Election

March monthly Town meeting following the Annual Meeting

Postings Places

• West Branch Road sign board
• Pequaywan Fire & EMS bulletin board
• Pequaywan Inn bulletin board
• pequaywantownship.org

Meeting was motioned to adjourn at 8:45 p.m. by Judy Strom and seconded by Steve Pelto, all yay, none opposed, motion carried.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace
Town Clerk

Call to Order: Meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Chair Scott Mead.

Present: Chair-Supervisor Scott Mead, Supervisor Lee Kaplan, Supervisor Don Swanstrom, Treasurer Ray Barnes and Clerk Lita Wallace. Others in attendance: two residents and one non-resident.

Clerk’s Report: Minutes of January meeting was presented and reviewed. Motion by Mead to approve the minutes, Swanstrom second. Mead yay, Kaplan yay, Swanstrom yay, motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report

Mead motion to approve the January Meeting for December 2017 Treasurer’s report, Lee second. Mead yay, Kaplan yay, Swanstrom yay, motion carried.

January 2018 Treasurer’s Report
Total Cash on hand as of 12/31/2017 – $267,976.28
Plus: Deposits – $240.50
Less Disbursements (January) – $15,740.29
Total Cash on hand as of 01/31/2018 – $252,476.49
January Check # 1305 – 1313

February 2018 Treasurer’s Report
Claims (February) – $1271.29
February Check # 1314 – 1317

Old Business

• March Town Election is scheduled on Tuesday, March 13, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Pequaywan Fire Department. If unable to vote on March 13, you can vote by Absentee voting on Saturday, March 10, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., at the Town Clerk’s Office, 3081 Little Cloquet River Road, Duluth.
• Annual Meeting and Town Meeting will follow after Town Election at approximately 8:15 p.m.
• Mead motion and seconded by Swanstrom to approve a bid submitted by KTM Paving for repair of West Branch Road costing $98,700 for the repair plus $3,500 mobilization fee for moving their equipments and to cap expenses up to $115,000.00. Mead yay, Kaplan yay, Swanstrom yay, motion carried.

New Business

• Approval of February 2018 Claims
• Budget discussion – for CTAS purposes, same amount will be used for 2018
• Financial audit of 2017 books – supervisors reviewed and approved the CTAS financial reports provided both by the treasurer and clerk which were pre-reconciled
• LBAE (Local Board of Appeals & Equalization) meeting scheduled May 9, 5-6 p.m. Pequaywan Fire Department

Correspondence Received

• Louis County 2018 Fee Schedule for Plowing – $975.00/per mile per year commencing October 1, 2018
• SLCAT (St Louis County Association of Townships) re-Resolution on St. Louis County Comprehensive Land Use Plan
• Email from SLCAT: (1) December 2017 and January 2018 Meeting Minutes; (2) Letter and Resolution to reinstate MAT General Counsel Kent Sulem; and (3) SLCAT Lobby Day participation form, March 21, 2018
• Master List for upcoming Township Elections in March
• St Louis County Election Department – 2018 Caucus Locations (contact the Auditor’s Office at 218-726-2385or elections@stlouiscountymn.gov if there are questions) http://caucusfinder.sos.state.mn.us/ –
• Office of State Auditor required annual financial reporting of town activities to the State
• St Louis County Ag Inspector – form to fill out by the Town Designated Weed Inspector
• St. Louis Co. Planning and Community Development Department – Land Use Permit Summary issued in 2017
• Minnesota Benefit Association – Township Officer benefit program
• Social Security Administration – online access by treasurer
• Minnesota Benefit Association – life insurance statement
• Minnesota Association of Township ($161.60) and St. Louis County Association of Township ($307.12) Dues (note: this bill was paid in January but since the clerk in-charge of depositing the check was ill, it was not cashed right away)
• LBAE (Local Board of Appeals & Equalization) meeting scheduled May 9, 5-6 p.m. Pequaywan Fire Department

Correspondence Sent

• Completed and signed form sent to St. Louis County for grant permission to access township land in their process of setting up timber sale in Sections 18 and 20 of the county land
• Mailed two Absentee Ballots

Public Comment

 Next Meeting: March 13, 2018, after the Annual Meeting, approximately 9:15 p.m., Pequaywan Fire Department, 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road

Motion to Adjourn: Kaplan motion to adjourn at 8:20 p.m., second by Swanstrom. Mead yay, Kaplan yay , Swanstrom yay, motion carried.

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

Call to Order: Meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Chair Scott Mead.

Present: Chair/Supervisor Scott Mead, Supervisor Lee Kaplan, Supervisor Don Swanstrom, Treasurer Ray Barnes and Clerk Lita Wallace. Others in attendance: two residents and one non-resident.

Clerk’s Report: Minutes of December 12 meeting was presented and reviewed. Motion by Mead to approve the minutes, Swanstrom second. Mead yay, Kaplan yay , Swanstrom yay, motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report

December Treasurer’s Report:

Total Cash on hand as of 11/30/2017 – $255,329.38
Plus: Deposits – $13,734.37
Less Disbursements (December) – $1,087.47
Total Cash on hand as of 12/31/2017 – $267,976.28
December Check # 1297 – 1304

Kaplan motioned to approve the December Treasurer’s report, Swanstrom seconded. Mead yay, Kaplan yay , Swanstrom yay, motion carried.

January 2018

Claims (January) – $15,740.29
January Check # 1305 – 1313

Old Business

• Mead stated that if we create a Comprehensive Plan, it would be what we would like but could not be less restrictive than the county’s Comprehensive Plan.
• Wallace reported that one Supervisor position is open for the Town Election in March. Deadline to submit Affidavit of Candidacy is January 16. Clerk’s office will be open for filing from 1:00-5:00 p.m. on January 16. Election will be held on March 13 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Pequaywan Firehall. Election Judges are Lita Wallace, Katherine Sluka and Robert McDonough.
• Mead met with KTM on December 4 to discuss an updated patch work for West Branch Road and was told that a new estimate will be submitted.

New Business

• Kaplan motion to approve the January 2018 claims including $13,500 levied for Pequaywan Fire & Rescue, second by Swanstrom. Mead yay, Kaplan yay , Swanstrom yay, motion carried.
• Mead motion to approve a request from St. Louis County to cross the corner of the township land in their process of setting up timber sale in Sections 18 and 20 of the county land, second by Kaplan. Mead yay, Kaplan yay , Swanstrom yay, motion carried. Form to be signed by Mead and mailed to St. Louis County with stipulation to leave slashing where access could be had from Rossini Road in order to prevent motor vehicles from entering township property.
• Mead requested if the township could help pay for the seminar he is interested in attending. Topic is Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) held on February 28 to March 1 in the Twin Cities. Seminar registration is $170.00. Swanstrom motion to approve up to $300 expense reimbursement to include seminar and part of hotel expenses, Kaplan second, motion carried. Mead yay, Kaplan yay , Swanstrom yay, motion carried.
• The Fire Chief of Pequaywan Fire & Rescue reported on the activities of the fire department last year. Fire Department is requesting that $13,500 be levied for 2019 again. The supervisors unanimously agreed to table this until the Annual Town Meeting.

Correspondence Received

• Invoice from St. Louis County for 2018 Proposed Tax Stmt Prep in the amount of $69.24
• Invoice for insurance premium 3/1/2018-3/1/2019 from MATIT (Minnesota Association of Townships Insurance & Bond Trust) in the amount of $973.00
• Duluth Association of Townships (DAT) dues for $40, January meeting Agenda and October 2017 meeting minutes
• Letter from St. Louis County Planning Commission on its hearing decision about a request for a conditional use permit from one of the residents
• Request from St. Louis County to access township land in the process of setting up timber sale at Rossini, Sections 18 and 20, of the county land
• Letter from St. Louis County re-Subdivision Ordinance 60 proposed Safe Routes to School program language amendments
• Letter from the Office of Minnesota Secretary of State, Election Calendar, sample ballots and instruction materials for Town Election in March 2018
• Annual Report of Outstanding Indebtedness Form from St. Louis County

Correspondence Sent

• Barnes mailed the completed Annual Report of Outstanding Indebtedness Form to St. Louis County

Public Comment – None

Motion to Adjourn: Kaplan motion to adjourn at 8:20 p.m., second by Swanstrom. Mead yay, Kaplan yay , Swanstrom yay, motion carried.

 Next Meeting: February 13, 2018, 7:30 p.m., Pequaywan Fire Department, 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk

Call to Order: Meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Chair Scott Mead.

Present: Chair-Supervisor Scott Mead, Supervisor Lee Kaplan, Supervisor Don Swanstrom, Treasurer Ray Barnes and Clerk Lita Wallace. Others in attendance: two residents and one non-resident.

Clerk’s Report: Minutes of November 14 meeting was presented and reviewed. Motion by Scott to approve the minutes as amended, Don second. Scott yay, Lee yay, Don yay, motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report

November Treasurer’s Report:
Total Cash on hand as of 10/31/2017: $257,575.68
Total Deposits: $220.40
Total Disbursements: $2,466.70
Total Cash on Hand as of 11/30/2017: $255,329.38
November Check # 1290-1296

Don motion to approve the Treasurer’s report, Lee second. Scott yay, Lee yay, Don yay, motion carried.

Old Business

• Proposal for road repair – Scott had discussion with a company but no updated bid as of
  this time and thereby not able to make any decision.
• Additional reflectors at the turnaround – still in the process of purchasing additional reflectors. The ground is frozen and what is there now seems to be working.

New Business

• Brief discussion of cash management plans for the coming year – Lee suggested not to extend the $50,000.00 CD when it matures in September 2018 and instead to put it in Money Market. This will enable the township to use it if needed for road repair. At the Annual Meeting, the township will recommend to keep the levy the same as this year to cover upcoming road repair expenses.
• Countywide Comprehensive Plan – the county’s plan is to take over all the Land Use Plan for all the townships in the county meaning taking over the rights of the townships.
• 2018 Town Election – Lita reported that Town election is scheduled on March 13, 2018. One supervisor position is up for voting presently held by Lee Kaplan. Lee stated that he is not planning to run for the position. Filing for candidacy runs from January 2 to January 16, 2018. Instructions and form is available at https://pequaywantownship.org/ or contact Lita at peqclerk@gmail.com.
• LBAE (Local Board of Appeal and Equalization) required certification – Don is certified
• Approval of December Claims – $1,087.47 47 (includes Workers’ Comp), December Checks # 1297-1304. Lee motioned to pay December Claims as presented, Don second. Scott yay, Lee yay, Don yay, motion carried.

Correspondence

Received:

1. Email and postage mail from St. Louis Co Elections Department re-instructions and important dates for March 13, 2018 Town Election
2. Workers’ Compensation Renewal Invoice and Audit from Minnesota Association of Townships
3. Email from St. Louis Co Assessor’s Office reminding townships to have an LBAE Certified supervisor to be in compliance with the MN Department of Revenue
4. Letter from St. Louis Co. Planning and Community Development Department re-St. Louis Co. Comprehensive Land Use Plan Update

Sent:

1. Filled out survey form from the U.S. Department of Commerce requesting information of board members’ salaries during March 2017 payroll period

Public Comment: None

Meeting was motioned to adjourn by Don at 8:00 p.m., second by Scott. Scott yay, Lee yay, Don yay,  motion carried.

Next Meeting: January 9, 2018, 7:30 p.m., Pequaywan Fire Department, 8764 Pequaywan Lake Road

Respectfully submitted by,
Lita Wallace, Town Clerk