CONTINUATION OF ANNUAL/REGULAR MEETING
Tuesday, September 2, 2008, 7:00 PM
In Attendance: Duane Laveau, Brian Johnson, Steve Conley, Tina Zinter and Alieca Johnson.
No guests were present.
The Meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Steve Conley to nominate and appoint Duane Laveau as Moderator of the Continuation Meeting. Motion carried.
The minutes from Annual Meeting dated March 11, 2008, were reviewed. Proposed 2009 levy amounts were also reviewed. Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Steve Conley to set the 2009 Levy as follows:
General: $ 30,000
Road & Bridge: $ 23,000
Fire: $ 45,000
HSRSF: $ 2,000
TOTAL 2009 LEVY: $100,000
Motion carried.
Due to new information received at the Summer Short Course, the Northland Shopper cannot be used as the official newspaper for township notices. Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Duane Laveau to publish legal notices in the Cloquet Pine Journal, Northland Shopper and Images. Motion carried.
Motion by Duane Laveau; seconded by Brian Johnson to adjourn the continued Annual Meeting at 7:15 PM. Motion carried.
REGULAR MEETING
The Regular Meeting was called to order at 7:15 PM.
The Minutes of the July 8, 2008, Regular Meeting and the July 29, 2008, Special Meeting were read. Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Duane Laveau to approve the clerk's minutes as presented. Motion carried.
The treasurer presented the following report: Beginning Balance: $299,676.08; Receipts $556.81; Disbursements: $8,447.59; Ending Balance: $291,785.30. Motion by Duane Laveau; seconded by Brian Johnson to approve the treasurer's report as presented. Motion carried.
Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Duane Laveau to pay the township bills as submitted (check #s 6232-6256).
OLD BUSINESS
Bandle Court Road: Steve Conley had talked to Randy McCuskey requesting the County blade the roadway prior to paving. The requested preliminary meeting with the township, the County and the contractor never took place. The initial paving job was very poor quality with roller marks, uneven thickness and nine places on the road surface where diesel fuel from the equipment used deteriorated the blacktop. Wayne Olson viewed the roadway and agreed that it was not up to specifications. The contractor returned to the roadway and patched deteriorated areas and rerolled the entire road surface. The township will work with Wayne Olson to pursue a reduction in the total price because of the substandard work.
Recording of Roads: Tabled until further notice.
Hall Landscaping/AC: Old flower beds have been removed. The siding project should begin soon. The contractor has suggested that foam insulation be installed around the foundation below the new siding at a cost of approximately $150. Brian Johnson will contact John Laveau to request that he also install two feet of 2” foam insulation around the building before topsoil in replaced. Brian is still working with Brent's Heating to inspect and automate the air conditioning/heating system.
Ambulance Meeting: Steve Conley has talked to Paul Gassert. Paul indicated that he is too busy with the upcoming elections to set up any meetings on the ambulance at this time. He indicated that Carlton collected less than ½ of the amount it had billed. Wrenshall Township and Holyoke Township have indicated a willingness to continue negotiations. Mr. Gassert has not heard from the other townships involved.
Gault Road: To be discussed further at the 2009 Annual Meeting.
The hours of Liz Johnson, who will be serving as an extra election judge at the general election, will be extended. She will begin at 2:00 PM and work until all ballots are counted.
The Board will meet at the Silver Brook Cemetery for fall clean-up on Monday, September 22, 2008, at 6:00 PM.
Due to the township elections being held in November a Board of Canvass Meeting will need to be set within 7 days of the election. The date of the regular November meeting will also be changed to a date within the 7-day period. The Board will meet again for its Board of Canvass/Regular Meeting on Monday, November 10, 2008, 7:00 PM.
Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Duane Laveau to adjourn the meeting at 8:02 PM. Motion carried.
SPECIAL MEETING
Tuesday, July 29, 2008, 7:00 PM
In Attendance: Duane Laveau, Brian Johnson, Steve Conley, Tina Zinter and Alieca Johnson.
Township resident Dolores Dennie was also present.
Brian Johnson met with John Laveau to discuss the removal of the old flower beds. It was discovered at that time that the wood siding around the bottom three feet of the hall was deteriorating and could lead to major decay and damage to the building structure. Siding prices are increasing 15% on August 1, 2008. Bids were received as follows:
Jeremy's Construction: $4,000—to remove/replace siding, replace steel around windows and doors, materials from Menards, 25-year warranty, non-interlocking, gutters and downspouts would have to be replaced by another contractor.
Custom Metal Works: $4,825—to remove/replace siding, replace steel around windows and doors, Firestone Metal Clad Siding, 50-year warranty, interlocking, 100% waterproof. Gutters and downspouts installed at $875. Total cost: $5,700.
Proposals were compared. Motion by Duane Laveau; seconded by Steve Conley to accept the proposal of Custom Metal Works to remove/replace deteriorating wood siding and install gutters and downspouts at a total cost of $5,700. Motion carried. Brian Johnson will contact Custom so that materials can be ordered before the August 1, 2008, price increase.
Bandle Court Road: Laveau Excavating has moved the culvert at the trailer court entrance and improved ditching on both sides of the roadway. Steve Conley will contact the County to request that they blade and crown the road surface.
Gault Road: Widening the remaining length and blacktopping of the entire road surface was discussed. The supervisors will meet to stake the improved road surface and discuss improvement with affected property owners. To be discussed further at the September meeting.
Carlton Ambulance: A response from the City of Carlton to the revised billing formula proposed by the board of townships has been received. Carlton would accept the formula as long as they are not included or required to pay any part of on-call wages. The Board will wait to hear from Paul Gassert or Commissioner Aanerud if another negotiation meeting will be held.
Motion by Duane Laveau; seconded by Steve Conley to adjourn the meeting at 8:07 PM. Motion carried.
REGULAR MEETING
Tuesday, July 8, 2008, 7:00 PM
In Attendance:
Duane Laveau, Brian Johnson,
Steve Conley, Tina Zinter and Alieca Johnson.
Township residents Mike and Nerissa LaCoursiere were also present.
The Meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
The minutes of the May 13,2008, Regular Meeting and the June 9, 2008, Special Meeting were read. Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Duane Laveau to approve the clerk's minutes as presented. Motion carried.
The treasurer presented the following report: Beginning Balance: $243,064.31; Receipts $64,183.98; Disbursements: $7,822.21; Ending Balance: $299,426.08. Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Brian Johnson to approve the treasurer's report as presented. Motion carried.
Motion by Duane Laveau; seconded by Steve Conley to pay the township bills as submitted (check #s 6220-6231).
OLD BUSINESS
Bandle Court Road: Steve Conley and Duane Laveau viewed the roadway prior to the meeting. The culvert at the trailer court entrance needs to be moved to the east and north and ditches need to be resloped in some areas. Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Brian Johnson to authorized the Road Supervisor to work with an area contractor to relocate the culvert and improve ditching as necessary. Motion carried. The County has indicated that there will be a meeting with Knife River before paving begins and that the township will be notified of said meeting.
Recording of Roads: Tabled until further notice.
Hall Landscaping/AC: Brian Johnson has contacting Brent's Heating to reconfigure the the heating/AC system to automatically switch from heating to cooling. Mike and Nerissa LaCoursiere indicated that they would be willing to help with the landscaping improvement.
Ambulance Meeting: A letter has been received from Paul Gassert setting forth the amounts due from the townships and cities under the formula proposed at the May 6th meeting. Silver Brook's portion would be $5,050 using the new formula compared to $12,110 using Carlton's formula. It was Steve Conley's understanding that after the new amounts were calculated another meeting would be scheduled with the City of Carlton. Any amount owed by the township will hopefully be finalized before the continuation of the Annual Meeting on September 2, 2008, when the final 2009 levy will be set. Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Duane Laveau to support the formula using population, taxable and non-taxable market value and average number of runs over a three-year period to determine proration of the on-call budget. Motion carried.
The culvert at Andy Ankrum's property on Thell Road was inspected. The clerk was authorized to return the $100 deposit.
Post Prom: The Wrenshall Post Prom has indicated that they have not received their donation check issued and mailed after the May regular meeting. The check has not cleared and cannot be located at the school or post office. If the check has not materialized before the September meeting payment will be stopped on the original check (#6207) and a new check issued.
NEW BUSINESS
Items for the continuation of the Annual Meeting were discussed. The meeting will reconvene Tuesday, September 2, 2008, at 7:00 PM. The regular September board meeting will follow.
Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Duane Laveau to adjourn the meeting at 8:00 PM. Motion carried.
SPECIAL MEETING
Monday, June 9, 2008, 7:00 PM
In Attendance: Duane Laveau, Brian Johnson, Steve Conley, Tina Zinter and Alieca Johnson.
No guests were present.
The Meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Motion by Duane Laveau; seconded by Steve Conley to pay the township bills as submitted (check #s 6218-6219).
OLD BUSINESS
Bandle Court Road: The blacktopping bid information received from the County was reviewed. Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Duane Laveau that the township accept the bid of $43,185.52 from Knife River Materials. Motion carried. Steve Conley will email our acceptance to Wayne Olson. A letter will also be sent to Mr. Olson requesting that the County handle the inspection of the road work on the township's behalf.
Gravel Bids: Gravel quotes were requested from Omar Sand & Gravel, Laveau Excavating and Grover Excavating. One bid was received from Laveau Excavating as follows:
Class 5: $12.00/yd.
Pit Run: $ 8.50/yd.
Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Steve Conley to accept the bid of Laveau Excavating. Motion carried. Duane Laveau will coordinate the delivery of the requested materials.
Duane Laveau will contact Bob Peterson to request roadside mowing for the township.
Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Duane Laveau to adjourn the meeting at 7:39 PM. Motion carried.
REGULAR MEETING
Tuesday, May 13, 2008, 7:00 PM
In Attendance: Duane Laveau, Brian Johnson, Steve Conley, Tina Zinter and Alieca Johnson.
Township resident Randy Wolf was also present.
The Meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
The minutes of the March 18, 2008, Regular Meeting; April 24, 2008, Board of Equalization Meeting and the April 29, 2008, Road Survey/Continuation of Board of Equalization Meeting were read. Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Steve Conley to approve the clerk's minutes as presented. Motion carried.
The treasurer presented the following report: Beginning Balance: $243,811.27; Receipts $7,300.77; Disbursements: $8,047.73; Ending Balance: $243,064.31. Motion by Duane Laveau; seconded by Steven Conley to approve the treasurer's report as presented. Motion carried.
Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Duane Laveau to pay the township bills as submitted (check #s 6201-6217).
OLD BUSINESS
Ambulance Meeting: Steve Conley attended an Ambulance Task Force meeting facilitated by Commissioner Aanerud on May 6, 2008. Commissioner Aanerud, Paul Gassert and representatives of several townships were in attendance. The City of Carlton was not represented. The consensus of the meeting was to propose to the City a new formula based on population, number of runs, and value of taxable and non-taxable properties. Paul Gassert will work out the numbers according to the proposed formula and contact the City and townships with that information. It was also a consensus of those in attendance that no one would be in favor of establishing an ambulance district.
Road Survey: Steve Conley drove the township roads at night to view reflectivity of signs. One stop sign traveling south at Maere/Cemetery Roads needs to be replaced; the sign heading north at the same intersection is twisted and needs to be straightened. Steve Conley will trim branches at Tew Road and contact Dan Jacobson regarding pine trees on the south side of Puype Road. Duane Laveau will trim branches and brush on Lagarde Road and contact the County about grading and sign replacement. Gravel bids will be requested from area contractors.
Bandle Court Road: Steve Conley will be meeting with the County later this week to view and approve bid specifications. The Board will call a special meeting to review blacktop bids and gravel bids on Tuesday, June 10, 2008, at 7:00 PM.
Recording of Roads: Tabled until July meeting.
Hall Landscaping/Thermostat, etc: Brian Johnson will arrange for Brent's Heating to check furnace and thermostat operation and to switch the system over to AC. Hall landscaping cleanup will be pursued now that road restrictions have been lifted.
NEW BUSINESS
Election Judges: Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Steve Conley to approve the appointment of Sherry Seglem, Janice Dahl, Carol Anderson, Ramona Laveau and Liz Johnson as election judges for the upcoming Primary and General Elections. Motion carried.
Motion by Duane Laveau; seconded by Steve Conley to adjourn the meeting at 8:12 PM. Motion carried.
ANNUAL ROAD SURVEY
Tuesday, April 29, 2008, 6:00 PM
Members Present: Steve Conley, Duane Laveau, Brian Johnson and Alieca Johnson.
BANDLE COURT ROAD: Board will be contacting the County about reconstruction. Currently the roadway is 20’ wide. The road would be widened to a 22’ surface to comply with township standards. Minnesota Power should be contacted about moving power poles on west side of roadway to edge of right-of-way. Existing culverts were inspected.
THELL ROAD: Needs one or more loads gravel to improve turnaround at south end of road.
GAULT ROAD: Long-range plan to widen remaining section of roadway.
PUYPE ROAD: Future repair needed.
SOUTH MAERE ROAD: Call County to pick up old washing machine in ditch. Duane will talk to Peter Laveau about moving fence away from roadway. Grading.
GARTHUS ROAD: Okay
STROUD ROAD: Needs red reflector on north end.
C. R. DAHL ROAD: Needs two loads gravel.
WILD VALLY ROAD: Needs red reflector on gate.
TEW ROAD: Okay.
LAGARDE ROAD: Brushing needed. Branches of pine trees block stop sign. 2 loads gravel.
RECYCLE SHED: Shed removed.
ABLEITER ROAD: Needs gravel on bus turnaround.
MAERE ROAD: Remove silt fencing, crack sealing. Replace stop sign at Cemetery Road.
TOWNSHIP CEMETERY: Clean-up Day set for 05/21/07.
CEMETERY ROAD: Okay.
MATTEN ROAD: Fill potholes or consider reconstruction.
OTHER:
Contact Terry Ruhnke regarding overgrown tansy.
Weeds/junk Heitala farm on County Road 4?
Pine trees along south side of Puype Road (owned by Don Johnson) will soon be blocking stop sign.
Do dead end roads require one or two red reflective signs at end?
Steve will drive roads at night to check reflectivity of stop signs.
Meeting adjourned at 8:50 PM
BOARD OF EQUALIZATION
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Attendance: Steve Conley, Brian Johnson, Alieca Johnson, County Assessor Marcie Moreland, Assistant County Assessor Kyle Holmes, and Deputy Appraiser Rick Bassett
Also in attendance were: Carl Dahl, Jim Holmes, Barb Holmes, Jack Dahl, Dennis Doherty, Rick Sjodin, Jim Dennie, Tina Zinter, Michael Rabideaux, Jayne Conley, and Dolores Dennie. Clarence Douville was represented by letter.
The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Steve Conley reviewed the purpose of the meeting and outlined the meeting procedures. The new County Assessor, Marcie Moreland, indicated that Silver Brook Township was reviewed this year. Although the housing market has been declining assessors are historians and work off sales data from October of 2006 to September 2007. They need a minimum of 6 sales below current EMV or a 5-year trend of decline to lower values. Land sales and values have held steady. Values increased in the township an average of 5.68%. Land values for bare land in Carlton County increased 15.79%. Land value for a 40-acre parcel is $2,000/acre. Some increases in the township were due to a change in the class of non-contiguous property, and an increase in value to homes under 1,100 square feet. Additionally, there was a change to a more accurate method for valuing land that resulted in increased values for parcels 5-acres and under.
Appellants were called individually and were allowed to address the Board.
CARL DAHL, PARCEL #69-20-1200, 40 ACRES
Appellant's EMV rose from $193,800 to $208,500, an increase of 7.6%, with no improvement. He questioned whether his parcel was still classified as homestead since he had signed the property over to his children.
The Assessor indicated that the property was still homestead. Building value on the parcel actually decreased $1,300 while the land value increased $16,000.
JIM AND BARB HOLMES, PACEL #s 69-20-1060, 9.93 ACRES
69-20-1062, 2.49 ACRES
69-20-0690, 37.68 ACRES
Appellants complained that the value on parcel #69-20-1060 increased from $194,600 to $221,200, (includes a new improvement valued at $14,800) an increase of 13.7%.
PARCEL #69-20-1062, which is a 2.49 ACRE parcel with County Road 18 running through the middle increased from $3,800 to $5,600, an increase of 47.4%. This property is not usable as a building site.
PARCEL 69-20-0690 increased from $48,200 to $63,300, an increase of 25.1%. This parcel is a landlocked parcel that does not adjoin the other properties.
The Assessor indicated that they could have the homestead viewed and reassessed. The increase in the value for Parcel 69-20-0690 was in part due to the loss of agricultural classification for non-contiguous property.
JACK DAHL did not have an appeal at this time.
DENNIS DOHERTY, PARCEL #69-20-2890, 20 ACRES
PARCEL #69-20-3060, 16.10 ACRES
Appellant stated that the value of Parcel #69-20-2890 increased from $37,300 to $47,400, an increase of 27.1%. This parcel has a garage only. Parcel #69-20-3060 increased from $14,400 to $24,000, an increase of 66.7%. This parcel is crossed by four pipelines and is now subject to a 225’ pipeline easement with the Enbridge expansion. One of the existing lines is buried too high making the land unusable as farm land. The new Enbridge right-of-way will leave the property permanently devalued and unusable as a building site.
The Assessor indicated that the land value was the only increase on the 20-acre parcel.
STEVE CONLEY, PARCEL #s 69-20-0510 AND 69-20-0722. Board Member.
RICK SJODIN, on behalf of DORIS CONLEY, PARCELS #69-20-0680,
#69-20-0740 and #69-20-0750
Appellant may contact the Assessor’s Office for further information about the senior credit program administered by the Department of Revenue.
JAMES DENNIE, PARCEL #69-20-1715, 1.69 ACRES
Appellant complained that his parcel increased from $154,00 to $156.600, an increase of 1.7%. Appellant indicated that the EMV is not accurate as he would have to make improvements of at least $25,000 to $30,000 to his well/sewer in order to sell.
The Assessor indicated that they could not speculate on what would need to be done to a property to make it ready for sale. All “working” well/septic systems are valued the same. The building value on the property did decrease while the land value increased. It was also indicated that an appraiser could reinspect the property.
CLARENCE DOUVILLE, PARCEL #s 69-20-0008 & 0710. Appeared by letter.
Appellant also spoke with Rick Bassett on the telephone. The building value increase was due to an increase in the value for homes under 1,100 square feet. The Assessor's office will look into adjusting the value of the property west of Hwy 23.
TINA ZINTER, PARCEL #69-20-2710. Board Member.
Appellant asked about getting an independent appraisal. The Assessor indicated that only real estate or market appraisals would be acceptable. Appellant also asked if it would be possible to have evening meetings. The Assessor indicated that the township would have to pay a fee for this service to cover employee overtime.
MICHAEL RABIDEAUX, PARCEL #69-20-2120. Questions only at this time.
JAYNE CONLEY, PARCEL #s 69-20-1190, 1090, and 0530.
Appellant’s homestead was reinspected prior to this meeting and adjustments made. Conflict of interest as a relative of a board member. Referred to County.
DELORES DENNIE, PARCEL #69-20-1890, 5.5 ACRES
Appellant complained that their value increased from $149,800 to $164,900 a 10.1% increase, without improvement. Rick Bassett went with Dolores to reinspect the home. The grade was changed from C+5 to C.
BRIAN JOHNSON, PARCEL #69-20-2026, .20 ACRE
This parcel is valued at $1,900. Due to conflict as a board member he will appear at the County meeting
JUDY JOHNSON, PARCEL #S 69-20-2021, 2015, 2020, and 2050.
Represented by Brian Johnson. Conflict of interest as a relative of a board member also referred to the County meeting.
Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Steve Conley to recess the meeting at 12:35 PM to reconvene Tuesday April 29, 2008, at 6:00 PM. Motion carried.
CONTINUATION OF BOARD OF EQUALIZATION
Tuesday, April 29, 2008, 8:00 PM
The Board after consideration of the information received and visual inspection of certain properties made the following decisions:
Carl Dahl, no change.
Jim & Barb Holmes, Parcel 69-20-1060: Board recommends reinspection by the Assessor’s Office.
Jim & Barb Holmes, Parcel 69-20-1062: Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Steve Conley to recommend that the EMV for this parcel be changed from $5,600 to $4,400, an increase of 15.79% in value over 2007, which would be in line with the County average increase.
Jim & Barb Holmes, Parcel 69-20-0690: The increase in this parcel was due to the loss of agriculture class for non-contiguous properties. No change.
Jack Dahl: questions/comments noted.
Dennis Doherty: Parcels 69-20-289 and 69-20-3060. The Board would refer these properties to the Assessor’s Office for review and reinspection, as the Board does not have enough information to make an accurate decision.
James Dennie, no change.
Steve Conley: Board member, referred to County Board.
Doris Conley, represented by Rick Sjodin, questions/comments noted.
Tina Zinter: Board member, referred to County Board.
Michael Rabideaux: questions/comments noted.
Jayne Conley: Relative of board member, referred to County Board
Dolores Dennie: Assessor inspected home, changed grade from C+5 to C.
Brian Johnson: Board member, referred to County Board
Judy Johnson, represented by Brian Johnson, relative of board member, referred to County Board.
Clarence Douville, Assessor to review value of property west of Highway 23.
MISCELLANEOUS:
Steve Conley received a copy of correspondence from Paul Gassert to Sharon Schafter, Carlton County Dispatch, clarifying that Section 23 is in Silver Brook Township.
Also, Steve Conley has been asked to attend Commissioner Annerud’s ambulance task force meeting to be held May 6, 2008, at 6:00 PM. Steve will report to the Board at its regular May meeting.
Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Steve Conley to adjourn the meeting at 8:43 PM. Motion carried.
REGULAR MEETING
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Attendance: Steve Conley, Duane Laveau, Brian Johnson, Tina Zinter and Alieca Johnson.
No guests were present.
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
The minutes of the January 15, 2008, Regular Meeting; February 20, 2008, Board of Audit Meeting and the March 11, 2008, Annual Town Meeting were read. Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Steve Conley to approve the clerk's minutes as presented. Motion carried.
The treasurer presented the following report: Beginning Balance: $250,512.14; Receipts $6,717.81; Disbursements: $13,418.68; Ending Balance: $241,513.70. Motion by Duane Laveau; seconded by Brian Johnson to approve the treasurer's report as presented. Motion carried.
Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Duane Laveau to pay the township bills as submitted (check #s 6187-6200).
OLD BUSINESS
Health & Recreation Fund Requests: Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Duane Laveau to set the distributions from the Health & Recreation Fund for 2008 as follows: Carlton County Historical Society: $250; Images: $1,200; Wrenshall Post Prom: $250; and Carlton County Fair: $250. Motion carried.
Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Brian Johnson to adopt the attached Donation Policy drafted by the clerk. Motion carried.
Carlton Ambulance: A letter to the City of Carlton was reviewed. Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Duane Laveau to send the revised letter and voluntary contribution of $6,055 to the City of Carlton and to send a copy to Commissioner Gordon Aanerud. Motion carried.
Bandle Court Road: Steve Conley has talked to Milt Hagen in the County Engineer's Office. The County plans on submitting requests for blacktopping bids in April. They have requested that the township send them a letter officially requesting that Bandle Court Road be included in their bidding process. Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Brian Johnson directing the Clerk to drafted a letter to the County requesting the same and also requesting that the Board be given the opportunity to review plans and specifications prior to finalization. Motion carried.
Recording of Roads: Steve Conley has completed a rough draft of legal descriptions. Roads need to be measured to get accurate numbers. Steve will work with the county surveyors to develop an official township road map.
Wrenshall Development Board: A public meeting presenting the final comprehensive plan for the area will be held March 25, 2008, at 7:00 PM at the Wrenshall City Hall.
NEW BUSINESS
The Small Cities Development Program Agreement was reviewed. Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Duane Laveau to approve and execute the agreement allowing Silver Brook Township residents to take part in the program. Motion carried.
Hall landscaping was discussed. Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Duane Laveau authorizing the Building Supervisor to hire a local contractor to begin the cleanup of the old flower beds around the town hall. Motion carried.
Because of the change of the Township Annual Election the Board of Reorganization Meeting will now be held in January. Board compensations were reviewed. Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Duane Laveau to set 2008 compensation rates as follows:
Mileage rate = same as County
Board hourly rate = $15/hour
Day-long meetings = $120
Regular meeting pay = $80
Election judges = $12/hour + one meal + mileage
Hall custodian = $12/hour
Treasurer salary = $1,350/year
Clerk salary = $2,700/year
Treasurer & Clerk will no longer receive computer allowances
Cemetery sextant = $200/year + $15/hour + mileage
Road Supervisor = $200/year + $15/hour + mileage
Building Supervisor = $200/year + $15/hour + mileage
Compensation rates to become effective March 19, 2008. Motion carried.
Motion by Brian Johnson to nominate Steve Conley as Chairman and Duane Laveau as Vice Chairman.
Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Brian Johnson to nominate Duane Laveau as Chairman and Brian Johnson as Vice Chairman. Motion carried.
Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Duane Laveau to adjourn the meeting at 9:07 PM. Motion carried.
ANNUAL MEETING
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
In Attendance: Duane Laveau, Tom Paczynski, Tina Zinter, Richard Zinter, Janaki Fisher-Merritt, Annie Dugan, Luella Bandle, Steve Conley, Clyde Ankrum, Brian Johnson, Rhonda Jacobson, Mark Manning, Aaron Nelson, Paul Schillo, Peter Laveau, Randy Wolf and Alieca Johnson.
The Meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Moderator: Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Paul Schillo to nominate Clyde Ankrum to preside over the meeting as Moderator. Motion carried.
Meeting Minutes/Financial Summary: The meeting minutes of the Annual Meeting dated March 13, 2007, and the Financial Summary for the year ending December 31, 2007, were read. No corrections or additions were made. Motion by Randy Wolf; seconded by Duane Laveau to approve the Minutes and Financial Report. Motion carried.
Road and Bridge/Recording of Roads: Duane Laveau reported that the first phase of reconstruction of Bandle Court has been completed and repaving is scheduled for this year. The township continues to monitor Puype Road, Gault Road and Matten Road. The Township has been able to save a considerable amount of money by working with the County on its road projects. Steve Conley reported that the township has begun the process of officially recording its township roadways. The process includes developing legal descriptions, developing an official road map and adopting a township resolution. A public hearing will be held later this year.
Fire: Randy Wolf and Pete Laveau reported that the Fire Department was able to purchase new radios and pagers for its volunteers. They have also applied for a grant that would help with the purchase of a new fire truck. Regardless of the grant's approval they are looking at a purchase in the future. The township should have a number of years to save towards that goal. A proposal to set up a county fire district which would have cost Silver Brook Township approximately $110,000/year has been voted down by the City of Wrenshall.
Ambulance: The Carlton Ambulance is attempting to recover on-call wages paid to its ambulance staff by billing the cities and townships that it serves. The formula they used to determine each entity's share was based solely on taxable value. Silver Brook Township has been asked to pay 17.30% or $12,110 in 2008 and $12,975 in 2009. Compliance with these requests is voluntary at this time. The City of Carlton has indicated that the alternative to helping to pay for on-call would be to establish a Carlton County Ambulance District which could potentially result in even greater costs. Questions about ambulance funding, billing procedures and changes that could be made to increase efficiency should be addressed at future ambulance meetings.
Motion by Duane Laveau; seconded by Peter Laveau to authorize the township to pay $6,055 to the City of Carlton which would be ½ of the amount requested for on-call service in 2008. Motion carried
Motion by Randy Wolf'; seconded by Aaron Nelson to indicate to the City of Carlton that the Township does not support the development of an ambulance taxing district. Motion carried.
Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Randy Wolf to request that negotiations continue with Carlton to establish a billing formula that would consider the number of users, population, distance from hall, and taxable and non-taxable property values. Further, to request full financial disclosure by the City of Carlton and to limit any payments made by the township to on-call wages. Motion carried.
Town Hall: Brian Johnson reported that the new furnace and air conditioning unit have been installed at a cost of approximately $3,100. The volunteer efforts of various township residents helped to make these improvements possible. Removing old flower beds and insulating the hall foundation was discussed. Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Duane Laveau to allow the township to expend funds to improve the landscaping and make improvements to the foundation as necessary. Motion carried.
Approval of Health/Rec. Distribution: Motion by Duane Laveau; seconded by Randy Wolf to allow the Town Board to distribute up to $2,000 from its Health & Rec Fund on behalf of the Township. Motion carried.
2009 Levy: Motion by Annie Dugan; seconded by Duane Laveau to set the proposed 2009 tax levy amounts as follows: Road & Bridge: $ 35,000; General: $18,000; Fire: $45,000; and Health & Rec: $2,000. TOTAL 2009 LEVY: $100,000. Motion carried.
Health & Rec Requests: Rhonda Jacobson appeared on behalf of Images. She reported that she is once again the Editor. Images is facing a $1,200 deficit this year. A financial statement was presented. Rhonda Jacobson also requested a donation on behalf of Wrenshall Post Prom. Annie Dugan appeared on behalf of the Carlton County Historical Society. She indicated that an exhibit on the Military Road will be opening soon and that there will be a special program commemorating the State's 150th birthday celebration in Jay Cooke Park during May. Requests for funds by letter were also received from: the Carlton County Fair, the Seven County Senior Federation, and the Moose Lake Area Historical Society.
Wrenshall Development Board: Janaki Fisher-Merritt stated that the comprehensive assessment of the area is underway. A survey was sent with 15% returned. A preliminary report/plan based on survey results will be reviewed at the Development Board's next meeting. A public meeting will be scheduled in the next few weeks.
Motion by Duane Laveau; seconded by Randy Wolf to publish township notices in the Northland Smart Shopper and Images. Motion by Annie Dugan; seconded by Tina Zinter to continue to post notices at the Brickyard, One Stop, Post Office, Town Hall and on the township website. Motions carried.
Motion by Randy Wolf; seconded by Peter Laveau to set the next Annual Town Meeting on the second Tuesday in March 2009, to commence at 8:00 PM at the Town Hall. Motion carried.
Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Randy Wolf to recess the 2008 Annual Meeting until September 9, 2008, at 7:00 PM. Motion carried. The Town Meeting was recessed at 9:38 PM.
BOARD OF AUDIT
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Board members present for the meeting were Steve Conley, Duane Laveau, Brian Johnson, Tina Zinter and Alieca Johnson. Guest present: Wrenshall Fire Chief Nick Shanda.
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Nick Shanda spoke briefly about the proposed Carlton County Fire/Ambulance District and what it could mean to the township and the Wrenshall Fire Department. According to estimates Silver Brook Township would be required to pay $109,000/year under this plan. Nick suggested contacting the Wrenshall City Council members to voice concerns. Additionally, the Fire Department has applied for a grant for a new fire truck. The grant would cover approximately 90% of the cost. If the grant is not approved the fire department is looking at purchasing a truck in the next five years at an estimated cost of $220,000.
The recommended auditing procedures were followed with original check stubs and receipts checked against the clerk and treasurer's receipt and disbursement registers and ledgers. Schedules 1 and 2 were also compared. All financial records were found to be in order. A copy of the Clerk's Schedule 1 is attached.
The 2009 levy was discussed. Items considered included the large balance in the Road & Bridge Fund and foreseeable increases in the amount needed in the Fire Fund for the new fire truck and possible required payments to the Carlton Ambulance. Motion by Duane Laveau; seconded by Steve Conley to set the proposed 2009 levy as follows: General: $18,000; Road & Bridge $35,000; Fire $45,000; and Health & Recreation $2,000. Total Levy $100,000. Motion carried.
Motion by Duane Laveau; seconded by Steve Conley to pay the township bills as presented (check #s 6178-6186). Motion carried.
The Board will meet again on the following dates:
Annual Meeting: March 11, 2008, 8:00 PM
Regular Meeting: March 18, 2008, 7:00 PM
Board of Equalization: April 24, 2008, 10:00 AM
Regular Meeting: May 13, 2008, 7:00 PM
Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Duane Laveau to adjourn the meeting at 9:17 PM.
REGULAR MEETING
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Attendance: Steve Conley, Duane Laveau, Brian Johnson, Tina Zinter and Alieca Johnson. No guests were present.
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
The minutes of the November 14, 2007, Regular Meeting were read. Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Duane Laveau to approve the clerk’s minutes as presented. Motion carried.
The treasurer presented the following report: Beginning Balance: $215,449.13; Receipts: $43,869.80; Disbursements: $8,806.79; Ending Balance: $250,512.14. Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Brian Johnson to accept the treasurer’s report. Motion carried.
Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Brian Johnson to pay the township bills as submitted (check #s 6166-6177). Motion carried.
OLD BUSINESS
Carlton Ambulance: Tina Zinter has a call into Dean Defoe (sp?) at MAT to see if funds from Road & Bridge can be transferred to pay the $12,110 billed by the Carlton Ambulance. Another meeting is proposed for the end of January at the City of Carlton, but no date has been set. To be considered further after more information is received.
Recording of Roads: Steve Conley will proceed with the process of recording roads. The Board will not pursue vacating any of the currently designated town roadways. A public hearing will need to be scheduled as part of this process. The hearing will be set to correspond with a regular board meeting date.
Purchase of Laptop Computers: Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Duane Laveau to authorize the treasurer and clerk to purchase laptop computers and necessary accessories not to exceed $600. Motion carried.
NEW BUSINESS
Thell Road Sign: The condition of the Thell Road sign was brought to the Board’s attention. That sign and all other road markers will be reviewed at the annual road survey and replaced as necessary.
Steve Conley and Alieca Johnson attended a recent meeting of the Wrenshall
Development Board. This meeting was the official kick-off for the area
assessment. Surveys will be sent out soon. The entire comprehensive plan is
scheduled to be completed by the end of March. The next meeting of the
Development Board will be February 14, 2008, at 2:00 PM at the Silver Brook Town
Hall.
The Board will meet again for its Annual Audit Meeting on Wednesday, February 20, 2008, at 7:00 PM.
Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Duane Laveau to adjourn the meeting at 8:30 PM.
Attendance: Steve Conley, Duane Laveau, Brian Johnson, Tina Zinter and Alieca Johnson. No guests were present.
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
The minutes of the September 11, 2007, Regular Meeting were read. The minutes were amended to note that the minutes of the July 10, 2007, meeting were read and approved at this meeting. Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Duane Laveau to approve the clerk’s minutes with the above correction. Motion carried.
The treasurer presented the following report: Beginning Balance: $241,513.70; Receipts: $4,557.93; Disbursements: $30,622.50; Ending Balance: $215,449.13. Motion by Duane Laveau; seconded by Brian Johnson to accept the treasurer’s report. Motion carried.
Motion by Steve Conley; seconded by Brian Johnson to pay the township bills as submitted (check #s 6145-6165). Motion carried.
OLD BUSINESS
Bandle Court Road: The first phase of improvement has been completed. The cost to date is: $22,768.16, which is below the County estimate. The road will be graded and should be in good shape for winter. Steve Conley read a letter he drafted to Wayne Olson expressing the township’s appreciation for their work and cooperation and further recognizing the efforts of Randy McCuskey.
Carlton Ambulance District: Steve Conley, Duane Laveau and Tina Zinter attended a meeting last night at the City of Carlton. The township again expressed their dissatisfaction with the formula used to determine Silver Brook’s allocation. The tone of the meeting seemed to indicate that Silver Brook was alone in its objection. Although other townships do not like the proposal, they are probably going to be paying the requested amounts. A billing will be received in December 2007 that the City would like paid in January of 2008. Tina indicated that she did not think we could legally transfer money from Road and Bridge to pay the billing. She will look into fund use and how ambulance services are funded for discussion at the January meeting.
Recording of Roads: Steve Conley went to the County Recorder’s Office and believes that recording township roads by map is a fairly simple procedure. He will work on developing a map of townships roads for review at the January meeting. The possibility of vacating a few of the more obscure township roads was discussed.
NEW BUSINESS
Brian Johnson, Tina Zinter and Alieca Johnson attended the Carlton County Association of Township Meeting in October. The legislature is working to reverse the decision that all townships would need to use the electronic voting equipment for their township elections. If this measure passes procedures for townships that changed their elections to November to move them back to March will also be addressed. A local Board of Equalization training session is also being pursued.
Tina Zinter requested that the township consider buying a laptop computer for the Treasurer to use. She indicted that other townships have laptops for their clerks and treasurers. She believes there would be many advantages and that township information would be more secure on a laptop than on her own personal computer. To be discussed further in January.
The Board will meet again for its next regular business meeting on Tuesday, January 15, 2008.
Motion by Brian Johnson; seconded by Duane Laveau to adjourn the meeting at 8:27 PM.