The meeting was called to order at 7:00 pm by Chair Michelle Meis, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited.  Supervisors present included Stan Iskierka, Branden Mell, Doug Johnson and Betsy Rising. Clerk, Heather Sward and Treasurer, Angela Krejchik and were also present.

Agenda

Motion to approve the agenda by Branden Mell, seconded by Betsy Rising.  Approved.

Board Meeting Minutes

Motion to approve the October 8th, 2024 regular board meeting minutes by Betsy Rising, seconded by Stan Iskierka.  Approved.

Motion to approve the November 12th, 2024 Board of Canvass meeting minutes by Branden Mell, seconded by Stan Iskierka.  Approved.

Treasurer’s Report

Motion to approve the Treasurer’s Report by Betsy Rising, seconded by Doug Johnson.  Approved.

Bills

Motion to approval paying the bills in the amount of $45,084.09 by Branden Mell, seconded by Betsy Rising.  Approved.

Variance/Plat/Interim Use Permit Requests

Wendy Kenneally – Variance Request: Mrs. Kenneally presented a request to add a second level to current home. Motion to approve the requested variance by Branden Mell, seconded by Betsy Rising. Approved.

Meeting with Braham Fire Department

At this time, Mr. Ross Benzen, Braham Fire Chief addressed the board.  In our agreement with the Braham Fire Department (BFD), we are to meet annually.  Mr. Benzen provided an update on the department’s 2024 budget, noting that they are currently at approximately 65.7% of the total budget for the year. Given that the department anticipates coming in under budget for 2024, it is expected that no settlement payment will be required. He also shared that the department was able to secure $33,000 in Public Safety funds, which were used to purchase a large fan designed to disperse smoke and a car fire blanket. Looking ahead, Mr. B highlighted the department’s future needs, including a new fire engine and a tender vehicle.

Open Forum

Request to add Nick Hammond to the December agenda new business, regarding banking.

Road Maintenance Report

  • Muddy Gap Hollow spent time grading, tree cutting, brush clearing and targeting problem roads.
  • They fixed some turn arounds.
  • They replaced fading signs and installed new house mailboxes & blue 911 signs.

Committee Reports

  1. Road Committee
  • Stan provided an update on his annual meeting with Shorewood regarding plowing.
  • Letters were sent to residents with obstacles in the ROW for plowing.
  • We have been working with residents with new homes for culvert & mailbox needs.
  1. Budget Committee
  • Budget meeting setting in new business.

  1. Contract Committee
  • Nothing to report.
  1. Policy Committee
  • Nothing to report.
  1. Clerk’s Township Update
  • The Clerk presented monthly report of the township happenings.
  • Elections are complete.

Old Business

  1. County Road 6/Stauffer Lake Parking: Chisago County Public Works provided an updated map with parking on the west side of County Road 6 (non-lake side), that the board reviewed.  It was recommended that the map be updated to reflect no parking at the intersection of Basswood & County Road 6.  A drafted resolution was presented (08-2024), Supporting County Rd 6 Improvement Project Parking at the Stauffer Lake Access. Motion to approve resolution 08-2024 with updated no parking at the intersection of Basswood & CR 6 as depicted on the updated attachment “A” as discussed, by Branden Mell, seconded by Betsy Rising.  Approved.   Clerk, Heather Sward will reach out to Mr. Tripplett to update the map.  Once received, Chair Michelle Meis will sign the resolution.  It was also noted from previous meeting discussion, that the DNR is not taking on any new accesses but would possibly partner with the township if we were to acquire the property for improvements.

New Business

  1. Set Budget Work Session: The budget work session is set for Friday, November 29th at 9:00 am. Notice will be posted on the door.
  1. Bayview North 2024-2025 Snowplowing Contract: We are currently in year two of a 2-year contract which expires at the end of the 2024-2025 snow plowing season.   Clerk, Heather Sward will contact with Mr. Webb to collect the downpayment.
  1. Cannabis Registration Authority: Chisago County reached out to the township with a proposed resolution transferring cannabis retail administrative posers and registration authority to Chisago Couty. The presented resolution (07-2024) was reviewed.  Motion to approve as presented by Michelle Meis, seconded by Stan Iskierka.  Branden Mell voted nay.  Approved.
  1. Other: Michelle Meis provided an update from CCATO.  Chisago County has set a preliminary budget of 5.2%.

Motion to adjourn at 8:18 pm by Betsy Rising, seconded by Branden Mell. Approved.