Category: Minutes

The Spring Meeting of the Pine County Township Officers’ Association was held on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at the Hinckley Community Center, in Hinckley, MN. The meeting was called to order by Chair Katy Overtoom at 9:00 a.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Chair Katie Overtoom. The Invocation was provided by Katy Overtoom. 

Roll call was taken with 22 townships present, establishing a quorum.

Motion made, seconded to approve the minutes from the Fall Meeting, Saturday, October 22, 2022.

We had several speakers:

State Senator Jason Rarick District 11 said this has been a different legislative session. They just came out with a budget target; the largest area is the K-12 education, and how they spend the money in the school district. He believes that we didn’t need free meals for all kids, at best 50%. Now we are spending $450 to do so.  He’s not for NLX (trains) and would rather the money go into bussing.  He doesn’t believe the current gun bill will pass because of so many concerns about it.

Nathan Nelson, State Senate Representative, District 11B – thanked the township officers for being involved on the local government level.  Roads are really bad this year, especially the one he lives on. The legislative target spending is $72 billion dollars that’s an increase of $17.9 billion over the last bi-annual.  For rural MN, he serves agricultural, work force and children and family committees.  He’s working hard on daycare early education, especially for the rural area. It’s been harder and harder for home based daycare to stay in business. He’s trying to make sure a portion of the funds goes to outer Minnesota.   ECE is trying to get broadband out to the areas they serve. ECE had to apply for smaller projects to fit within the grant limit.  He is hoping for them to increase the cap, so they can work on bigger projects, and still be under the cap.  He’s got a concern about a bill trying to limit school classes to 17 students.  This could affect everything including how many rooms to have students in that could lead to a bond issue.  Please contact him if you have any concerns about anything coming up.

Steve Hallan, District 1 Commissioner said Pine County is only one of five counties in Minnesota that owns their own land fill in Arthur Township, west of Mora.  The landfill after struggling is doing really good now.  They have good equipment and staff.  It has to follow a million rules to make sure it’s not violating any laws, i.e., polluting ground.  Every county had to pitch in originally to get the landfill going.  Last year the landfill gave back to those counties almost $1 million, and Pine County got about $200,000.00.  Some day this landfill will not have any room for expansion. It’s getting filled up really fast because we throw away so much garbage.

 The county board has gotten really serious about Broadband.  You will not get it overnight, but Broadband will be coming to your area in the next three years or so.  ECE has 94 miles of fiber sitting on reels ready to go.  Also, SCI and Minco are working on Broadband around Pine City and the Rock Creek area.

The county now has a full-time Economic Director, Lezlie Sauter. 

Pine County took some of its ARPA money to give scholarships to students graduating from a local school to attend Pine County Technical and Community College, at no cost.  They have 49 students who are taking part in the program this year.  Many of those students are first generation, post-secondary students.  Many of the students when they graduate are getting high wages; we need electricians, plumbers, mechanics, etc.  They are trying to figure out how to sustain this scholarship in perpetuity.

He went on to state that they are branding the county from Pine County “We are in the middle of nowhere” to “We are in the middle of everywhere.”  We can be in the middle of the wilderness in an hour, or we can be at the Twin’s games; in an hour we can be testifying in the capital. 

We also have an opioid crisis.  They have had six overdoses in the county since January 1.  That’s two a month.  These are not terrible people, but rather people who have made one big mistake.

Terry Lovgren, District 3 Commissioner said we won’t be getting the
Stauber grant.  It’s been put off for another year.  The CBDG Grant won by SCI Cable for those with low income in the townships of Dell Grove, Sandstone, Barry, Arlone, and Glover.

If you’re a township with over $3,800 is damages, call Denise at 320-438-0309 to find out about a 75% reimbursement due to the December snow storms.  You must apply by March 30, 2023.

Lovgren said that she’s on the National Association of Counties Technology & Telecommunication Committee.  This year, they are presenting a resolution concerning the lack of cell service to many areas in our nation.  Pine County has many dead spots, making this a great opportunity to help our residents.

Another resolution they are working on is making sure providers are honest in their pricing.  If you believe you been scammed report it to ReportFraud.FTC.gov.

Jeff Nelson, Sheriff- Pine County – said to get a hold of him, if there are issues.  Call in if you see anything suspicious. There are issues with hiring law enforcement officers and a couple different levels.  Candidate pool is getting shallower, and they are competing with the metro for pay issues.  They get a lot of support from the Pine County community.  They have had three overdoses over the last week or so, but all have recovered.  It’s been 16 or 17 so far this year, with six deaths this year.  All except one was from the Pine County area.  They have put a lot of money into trying to find the sources for those overdoses and chase down the dealers.  That takes resources.   He said we cannot arrest our way out of it.  It will take education.  This drug issue is from all economic and social backgrounds. There is an opioid conference coming up Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at the Grand Casino Hinckley.  Details are on his website. He talked about the potential for flooding, especially if you have it previously.     Veterans get a substantial discount with their Conceal and Carry permit. Honorable discharged veterans only pay $10 instead of $100.

Jordan Zeller, ECRDC Economic Developer – they are working with Pine Tech to get a grant for them.  They do bank visits to promote economic development.  They are also collecting data on where to build new houses in the area.  They have a bunch of financing programs that can make things happen.  If you’re interested in childcare, talk with him.  They also have their revolving loan funds. They have funds to lend out.  They are a government entity, so they are not competing with banks from $10K to $60K.  They have 27 loans outstanding, nine of which are in Pine County; three are in Pine City, one in Sandstone, one in Askov, one in Banning, one in Denham, one in Hinckley and one in Henriette.  He said if you forget who he is, talk with Glen Williamson because he’s the Vice Chair of the loan committee. 

Barb Fischer, Pine Area Hospital District Vice President – said she’s the newly elected Chair of the hospital board .  Bill passed about seven weeks ago.  There are three questions.   1.  What is the Hospital District? 2.  Now that the hospital is built, why are you still active? 3.  What are you doing with the money?

1. The organization was created by statute… it was originally created in 1959.  When MN realized that hospitals in the rural areas were going away.  They had a county hospital, county nursing home and a county clinic. As hospital and medical issues became more complex, it took a lot to maintain it.  So they decided to take advantage of the statute.  So, the decision was made to build a new hospital.  It opened in 2017, right after she moved to the area.  They build the hospital, they own the hospital, but they don’t run it. They don’t have the expertise.  The hospital is leased to Essentia; Essentia sub leases Gateway Clinic and Thrifty Pharmacy.  The bond they took out in 2017 is paid by Essentia.  So that leads to the next question.
2. Why are you still active? The hospital district holds the loan for the mortgage on the hospital.  Not Essentia. Essentia has the right to leave if they want. The district would still have the mortgage. Sandstone hospital is grandfathered in.  It’s the law in the state.  It’s required by this area for the citizens to have access to a hospital.   It is a triage hospital.  They hold over people in the hospital, until they can find a bed to send them to.  The clinic feeds the hospital.  But the clinic is independent of the hospital and ask the patients where they want to go… i.e., to Duluth.  The clinic lets you go wherever the patients want to go.
3. What do you do with the money you get from the levy?  They offer forgivable loans to those who train in Pine County and if they work a couple of years for the hospital, then their loan can be forgiven.  They offer EMT training; they pay for new medical technology.  The district receives about $250,000 from the levy.

Mindy Sandell, Veterans Services – The stats are from 2021 because 2022 has not come out yet.  We have 2,165 veterans in Pine County.  That’s a decrease of 50/55 veterans from the year before because a lot of Vietnam veterans are dying. The veterans’ compensation coming into the county are $14, 468,000; medical care is $15,927,000; education money $4486,000; insurance and indemnities $130,000.  They also have a van program that goes to Minneapolis on even number days, Twin Ports on Mondays, and St. Cloud on Tuesdays.  Any veteran can use the van.  They are down on drivers, but they still run the van program.  They just purchased a new high-capacity passenger van. They are about 20 veterans’ appointments a week and about 10 walk-ins a week.  They average about 60 phone calls a week. They have coffee talk in Sandstone the first Monday of the month in her office (in Sandstone); the first Thursday of the month in the evening in Pine City.  She’s also in Pine City every Thursday in the evening to serve the southern part of the county.  They have income-based grants available.   Sandell said, she’s also the chair of the Pickem Up Suicide Coalition which includes Pine, Kanabec, Isanti, and Mille Lacs County to help prevent veterans from committing suicides.  For more details visit https://www.co.pine.mn.us/departments/veterans/index.php

Jeff Krueger, MN Association of Township Director – speaking on behalf of Tammy Carlson who is the new District 7 Director as of January 31, 2023.  The next annual MAT Township Conference is December 7 – 9, 2023 at River’s Edge Convention Center.  He’s urging all township officers to attend because they will be cleaning up their bylaws and it’s important for you to be there.  They have over 9,000 members, but only 200 attended last year for various reasons, including having it in October.  October was too early because many of the officers are farmers and were still in the field. November is not a good month because of the hunting season. By moving it to December they are hoping to have a lot better turnout.   They have a staff of 15 and he’s been there for two years, but he’s third longest employee there.  They have a lot of turn over because of wages;  they will also be voting on dues increases.  The short courses for those in Pine County will be April 7 at the DECC in Duluth.

Some other info:  The association was originally formed in 1933 as MATO.  It was originally formed after Iowa lost its townships.  It was formed to make sure that townships continue to exist in Minnesota.  We have 55,000 miles of roads. MAT’s goal is $100 Million for townships.  Wisconsin has 60,000 miles of roads and are getting $168 Million for their roads. We got less than a 1/3^rd last year than what Wisconsin received. In 2023 the townships are expecting a 28% decline in state aid. There will be a 7% decrease in gas tax because of higher efficient cars and EVs.  In the 70’s and 80’s the association use to have 800 to 1,000 officers at Lobby Days   For details visit https://www.mntownships.org/

Mike Couri, Couri and Ruppe Law Office – spoke about his upcoming Township Legal Seminars which will include

• CARTWAYS
• TOWN LINE ROAD AGREEMENTS
• CEMETERIES
• FIRE CONTRACTS
• TOWNSHIP JEOPARDY
• CLERK & TREASURER DUTIES; REORGANIZATIONAL MEETINGS
• TECHNOLOGY
• OPEN MEETING LAW
• STUMP THE CHUMPS

For details visit https://www.couriruppe.com/township-legal-seminar

Motion made, seconded to nominate Dan O’Flanagan, Dell Grove Township and Glen Williamson, Wilma Township to the Executive Board for another three years.   Both officers were re-elected by the attendees to three years until March 2026.

Motion made, seconded, and passed to adjourn at 10:45 am.

Respectively submitted by

Glen Williamson Sr.

Secretary/Treasurer

Pine County Township Officers’ Association

Date Approved: ______________________

Chairman___________________________

The Fall Meeting of the Pine County Township Officers’ Association was held on Saturday, October 22, 2022, at the Hinckley American Legion, in Hinckley, MN. The meeting was called to order by Chair Katy Overtoom at 9:00 a.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Chair Katie Overtoom. The Invocation was provided by Katy Overtoom. 

Roll call was taken with 16 townships present, establishing a quorum.

Motion made and seconded to approve the minutes read by Stefanie Williamson, Deputy Clerk, Wilma Township from the Spring Meeting, Saturday, March 27, 2022.

We had several speakers:

Jen Schultz, Candidate for US 8^th Congressional District – She has been a MN State Representative for District 7A, Duluth area and is an economist at the University of MN. She knows that Broadband is essential for the district.  Her phone number is 218-340-5686.

State Senator Jason Rarick District 11 said he’s an electrician and talked about energy future and that he works a lot with Pine County Technical and Community College.  There are two big issues in this area, Broadband for townships and Roads. He also talked about the ECE $300 million project.

Michelle Boyechko, State Senate Candidate, District 11 – said she’s a small, pig farmer from Carlton County.  She’s pro legal abortion and for gun control.  She would work on getting small and medium farmers into the market.  Also, will work for affordable day care.

Eric Olson, Candidate, State Representative, District 11B – Phone number 320-279-1858 – Said there is a division between rural and urban areas. He said the government close to the ground makes better decisions for the people.  He would like to see an Energy District like the Soil and Water District.  Education is important.  He’s a teacher and has been in the Peace Corps.  He says we need to adjust the way we pay for education.  He grew up in Pine County, been a park ranger and a teacher.  He said Pine County has the second lowest Broadband penetration in the state.

Terry Lovgren, District 3 Commissioner said that Pete Stauber helped to secure a Federal grant to help the county construct fiber broadband.  She spoke more about Broadband issues and went on to say that they have to file another grant application to get more money.  She stated that Pine County has the second lowest income, per capita, in the state.

Steve Hallan, District 1 Commissioner said as of this meeting, he’s been to 31 or 32 county officers’ meetings.  He advocates that there are no state surpluses until the state goes back to what’s owed to small government.  The county budget is $21 million.  50 to 55% goes to public safety, i.e., the Sheriff department. The value of land has been going up.  We are 86 out of 87 counties in MN for Broadband access.  However, Pine County is leading the change in family issues.

Skip Thomson, District 5 Candidate for Commissioner – said Pine County is the 16^th highest tax county out of 87.  He stated that bigger government doesn’t mean better government and the process of housings are coming down.  He’s running so that the people in the 5^th district should have a choice and little government handles money better than bigger government.

Kelly Schroeder, County Auditor said they are working on Truth and Taxation Statements, and it should be going out about a week earlier.  She and Leslie are available if you need help.  20/21 high school graduates can go to Pine Tech free.  Also, if they are taking law programs at Fond Du Lac College.  Her office is reaching out to townships to what their voting needs are.  The county commissioners are responsible for redistricting.  3500 acres are a part of the Memorial Forest Ordinance this summer. The county got a grant to build a Household Hazardous Building in the north area.  Hopefully construction will start Spring 2022.

Since 2016, the county opened two transfer stations and they will be opening a new hazardous waste station in Willow River.

Jeff Nelson, Sheriff – has been here for eight years and only missed one county association meeting.  He has also been trying to get to as many townships as possible.  Housing prisoners has been very interesting, that includes keeping those with Covid away from the general prison population. They currently have four canines, and they can ask them to do stuff that humans wouldn’t do.  Technology is wonderful.  They currently have four drones now.  All school districts now have an SRO.

Fran Levings, Pine Area Hospital District Vice President – said the hospital board was created by the MN Legislature in 1986 to provide quality health care access in this area.  They just approved a grant of $250,000.00 for the Sandstone hospital.  Also, for those going to school to be in the medical field, they have a $7000 loan to help with education.  If they work in the hospital district for two years, their loan will be forgiven.  Property owners in the hospital district are taxed $31 per $100,000.00 of property owned, per year.

Conservation Officer, Ben Karon, DNR – said that he’s now covering this area because CO Bret Grundmeier is now the acting supervisor. Karon states that he’s the only game warden in Pine County now.  Mandatory testing is still required on deer for Chronic Waste Disease (CWD).  There haven’t been any positive results in the wild.  He went on to state that farmers cannot shoot wolves anymore, even if they are eating their cattle.  You can only shoot them if your life is threatened and in danger.

Curt Kalk, Area Relations, Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe – said that there are 4800 people in the Mille Lacs Band and the government structure is the same as the Minnesota legislature.  His primary job is government affairs.  Pine County officials have a good relationship with the band.  They spend about $136 million a year of which $100 million is federal and state grants.  Also, the clinics are directly funded by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

Jeff Krueger, MN Association of Township Director – said that he’s been director of the association for 18 months.  MAT was started in 1933 and in 1979 became a 501-c organization in 1979.  The association has over 9,000 members.  He said that townships have over 55,000 miles of roads, and it’s more than any other government entities in Minnesota. They helped 425 townships to get ARPA funds.  Mike Miller is no longer District 7 (our district) director and there will be an election January 31, 2023, for a new director.

Tammy Carlson, Clerk, Pine City Township – will be running for District 7 Director, January 31, 2023.  Her phone number is 651-621-4049.

Motion made, seconded and passed to adjourn at 11:00am.

Respectively submitted by

Glen Williamson Sr.

Secretary/Treasurer

Pine County Township Officers’ Association

Date Approved:______________________

Chairman___________________________

The Fall Meeting of the Pine County Township Officer’s Association was held on Saturday, October 23, 2021, at the Hinckley Community Center, in Hinckley, MN. The meeting was called to order by Chair Katy Overtoom at 9:00 a.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Chair Katie Overtoom. The Invocation was provided by Katy Overtoom. 

Roll call was taken with 15 townships present, establishing a quorum.

Motion made and seconded to approve the minutes from the Spring Meeting, Saturday, March 23, 2021.

We had several speakers:

State Rep. Nathan, 11B  talked about Chronic Waste Disease (CWD) and how they can test live deer.  They don’t need to be dead.  The state has approved $70 million for Broadband.  SCI is having difficulties getting junction boxes for Broadband.  The supply chain is a problem.

Steve Hallan, District 1 Commissioner, said Matt Ludwig’s wife has leukemia and she has been in Rochester for about 100 days.  Broadband is a top priority.  The more people who engage; the more the carrier will move in the area.  MINCO is putting in fiber near Rock Creek.  If you shoot a deer, get it tested.  Deer hunting is a huge economic thing in this county.   Because of Covid, about 70 employees are working from home.  And productivity has gone up with a savings of almost $3 million.  According to the recent census, they have lost 800 people from 10 years ago.  ECE is working on a partnership to bring broadband to us.  He urges that citizens get more involved in Broadband participation by attending meetings.

Kelly Schroeder, County Auditor said they are working on Truth and Taxation Statements, and it should be going out about a week earlier.  She and Leslie are available if you need help.  20/21 high school graduates can go to Pine Tech free.  Also if they are taking law programs at Fond Du Lac College.  Her office is reaching out to townships to what their voting needs are.  The county commissioners are responsible for redistricting.  3500 acres are a part of the Memorial Forest Ordinance this summer. The county got a grant to build a Household Hazardous Building in the north area.  Hopefully construction will start Spring 2022.

County Attorney Reese Frederickson said they just moved to a new home in a township.  This year his office has been very busy and are backlogged. If your township needs help, give him a call. He talked about a child abuse case in which the father was abusing his son and daughter.  However more victims from this father are coming forth from those living in different states now.  This father, after the first day of trial, ending up shooting and killing himself, rather than stand trial.  This predator operated under the radar for about 30 years.    

Scott Grice, Chief Deputy, Sheriff Department:  They have started a drone program and are used an ankle GPS to track a suspect.  They used a drone to track this suspect who had a rifle and they heard wanted “suicide by cop”.  They are having a hard time find law enforcement candidates.  However, they found four good candidates who are currently in training.

Lenny Bonander, Hospital Board and NLX: It took about 10 years, but with community support, they were able to build a new hospital.  It’s taken about 15 years to get the railroad maters to where it is now.   He read a proposed City of Sandstone resolution to have politicians support NLX.  It was adopted 7/21/21.  It will cost between $350 to $500 million to get train services in this area.  The majority of the money is to straighten out intersections on the railroad lines.

Mindy Sandell, Veterans Services said they are 2326 veterans in Pine County.  They are bringing roughly $29 million in services to these veterans. 

Michael Miller, District 7 Director, Minnesota Association of Townships:  Spoke about MAT and it’s work that it’s doing for the townships at the Capital.  If townships need any help, to contact him.

Motion made and seconded to adjourn at 10:15am.

Respectively submitted by

Glen Williamson Sr.

Secretary/Treasurer

Pine County Township Officers’ Association

Date Approved:______________________

Chairman___________________________

The Spring Meeting of the Pine County Township Officer’s Association was held on Saturday, March 27, 2021, at the Hinckley Community Center, in Hinckley, MN. The meeting was called to order by Secretary/Treasurer Glen Williamson at 9:00 a.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Secretary/Treasurer Glen Williamson. The Invocation was provided by Paul Raymond. The Chair Katy Overtoom later came in and took over the meeting.

Roll call was taken with 18 townships present, establishing a quorum.

Motion made and seconded to approve the minutes from the Fall Meeting, Saturday, October 27, 2020.

We had several speakers:

Jason Rarick, State Senator 11 said the state is back to a surplus. Gas tax is not the long range solution. He believes this country will be going to electric cars in 25 to 30 years.

State Rep. Nathan, 11B said there will be a special session if they agree on the budget by June 30. He mentioned that the governor has a lot of discretion on funding. Chronic Waste Disease (CWD) is a topic and what to do with the carcasses. Kanabec landfill didn’t want them. About 600 samples were taken, but don’t believe there is a big problem with CWD. There is a lot of funding for broadband, however there is a discrepancy on how to allocate it.

Steve Hallan, District 1 Commissioner, said he and Commissioner Terry Lovgren will speak for the County Commissioners. There is a plan on broadband around Hinckley and Rock Creek this summer. The county is getting money from the American Rescue Plan Act and they have until 2024 to spend it. As townships get money they will get guidance on what to do with it. CWD is a big deal in Pine County because a lot of lives revolve around hunting. Economic impact of deer hunting in this county adds up.

Terry Lovgren, Commissioner District 3 said she went to the National County Meeting via Zoom. She has a list of how much money the townships will get directly from the American Rescue Plan. Townships will be getting 10% less on tax forfeited land this year.

Kelly Schroeder, County Auditor said election last fall took incredible effort. She thanked the clerks and election judges a fantastic job. Tax statement will be mailed on Monday. Vacant land value went way down. With houses will go up. Property is selling higher than usual. She’s concerned because this will drive value up. A lot of baby boomers are moving to the area.

County Attorney Reese Frederickson said there is now a Veterans Court Initiative with Chisago County. The court will be having two graduates soon. Zoom court has been interesting. Overall, it’s doing great. People are still being held accountable. Meth is still a problem in the county with lots of overdoses. Burglary is related to the addiction problem. They have put a lot of drug dealers in prison. Drug dealers like to snitch on each other.

Caleb Anderson, Planning and Zoning said the county adopted a county wide zoning ordinance January 2020. It’s an opt in program. They use Beacon to see wetlands in the county. There isn’t any fee for informal reviews of what you can do near wetlands. The constituents care a lot about recycling. There is recylcing three days a week in three different areas of Pine County.

Jordan Zeller with East Central Regional Development Commission/ECRDC doing housing familiar tours. If you have housing property for sale or development, let him know. Also doing it for commercial and industrial land. Has funds for small business development. Can do COVID loans for 0%.

Brett Grundmeier from the DNR said hunting has the highest economic impact in this county for the state. A lot of money is spent here. No CWD has been found in the wild. This year it’s a requirement to get deer tested for CWD. The goal is to test at least 1,000 deer. You still cannot feed deer, but you can still do salt blocks. There are two wolf zones in the states and you can remove wolves if they are a threat to you and your cattle. North of Highway 48/18 is more lenient. South of that line they must be a threat …i.e. stalking cattle, but you need to call them.

Mindy Sandell, Veterans Services said roughly 2500 veterans came into her office. They have COVID relief grants and gave out 50% of them. There is a van ride program available for veterans to go to the VA, etc. They are averaging about 60 phone calls per week. The office is now open at North Pine Government Center.

Katy Overtoom and Paul Raymond were re-elected to the PCTOA Executive Board to serve until March 2024.

Motion made and seconded to adjourn at 11:00 am.

Respectively submitted by

Glen Williamson Sr.

Secretary/Treasurer

Pine County Township Officers’ Association

Date Approved:______________________

Chairman___________________________

PINE COUNTY TOWNSHIP OFFICERS’ ASSOCIATION MEETING SATURDAY, MARCH 23, 2019

The Spring Meeting of the Pine County Township Officer’s Association was held on Saturday, March 23, 2019, at the Hinckley American Legion Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Katy Overtoom at 9:00 a.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led Chair Katy Overtoom. The Invocation was provided by Katy Overtoom.

Roll call was taken with 26 townships present, establishing a quorum.

Motion made and seconded to approve the minutes from the Spring Meeting, Saturday, October 28, 2018 read by Secretary/Treasurer Glen Williamson.

Jason Rarick, State Senator MN District 11. There were problems and concerns with the extraordinary special primaries and elections for Tony Lourey’s Senate seat and Jason’s house seat when he was elected Senator. Some mail-in ballots didn’t get to the courthouse on time with the short window. He is asking for more money for township broadband internet and cell-phone service beyond the one-time grants to include bonding like with road and bridge and transportation bonding. He’s working with the Rural Transportation Bill to increase the share small cities and townships get; now we get only 5% of the gas tax although we have 40% of the roads in the state. He said there is more talk about the NXL Railroad funding but the legislators can’t control the outcome once money is designated to an agency. He opposes the $.20 gas tax increase since it adversely affects rural drivers with longer distances and older vehicles. It’s supposed to go into the transportation fund but can be diverted to transit. He supports a designated sales tax for transportation. Powerball funds can’t be used for roads or other purposes than what it’s designated for. One idea is tracking drivers with GPS and charging by miles driven.

Steve Hallan, District 1 commissioner. Asked for prayers for those suffering in the Nebraska/Iowa floods. Said the commissioners are also focused on bringing broadband to townships. He supports a gas-tax increase and wants more to go to townships. New county building in Sandstone is coming along and the next County/township commissioners meeting might be there. County is understaffed and have to do more with less. There are six openings for jailers, a good paying job with a retirement program that only requires a high-school diploma. Out-of-home placements are hurting the budget with over 100 kids in placements, and it’s also a social problem. Kids have to have somewhere to go. Road projects include redoing the highway 70 overpass and bridge and also the Walmart exit and road to re-engineer the roads for better visibility of oncoming cars. Want to replace the big box culverts in Willow River but hung up with permits to work in the river bed. Some towns want to give the county some of their roads; they can’t take any more except with a swap.

Josh Mohr, District 2 Commissioner and county chair. The special primaries and elections hit towns and the county pretty hard. It cost the county $18,000; $12,000 for ballots alone plus overtime and it cost many towns $1,000 per election. He wants the state to come up with a better way to handle these special elections, perhaps with mail ballots. Mohr testified at the capitol for Rarick’s bill for a fairer share of the casino taxes. Rarick wants the county’s share doubled.

Jeff Nelson, County Sheriff: Drug use is still a big concern in the county, mostly with meth, but also heroin and opioids. This affects all county agencies; they want to steer people in the right direction. The jail program tries to rehab and redirect offenders.

Kelly Schroeder, New County Auditor/Treasurer. The 2020 elections are only a year away. One big change will be a state-wide March Presidential primary election, as well as the August primary. The legislative language is unclear about primaries; they now require up to four separate ballots, for each party instead of putting all offices on one ballot. There’s a bill to allow one ballot and to make the Presidential Primary a mail ballot election. The 16,000 mail ballots would still be cheaper than polling places. She talked about how tax for land and timber sales trickles down to townships. The County Forester is doing an inventory of county land for a plan for the timber harvest. Property tax assessments are going out this week; township levies are going down but county levies are going up. Big push for recycling programs with 11 sites for recycling sheds run by PHASE, and they found a site for the Willow River transfer station north of Willow River that will take garbage and tires and mattresses and recyclables 3 days a week. They want to make this a pilot project in General Andrews Station for garbage and recyclables, since half of the people in the county do not have any garbage service so they burn it or dump their garbage.

County-wide Zoning: Still only opt-in but they are almost ready to release it and there will be big public meetings when it is released.

Lorri Houtsma, New County Assessor. Boards of Appeal start April 8. She distributed land values schedules for 2020. Most people will have an uptick in values, mostly in high-ground tillable land. There is online assessor training in July for Supervisors. Open-book boards of appeal give people more time to appeal their assessments, up until June.

Jordan Zeller, ECRDC said economic development creates jobs and grows the local tax base. They’ve started an inventors and entrepreneurs club to help inventors get patents and create more businesses to hire more people. Check the ecmnbusiness.com website for updates. They will meet monthly in Braham. ECRDC has a small business revolving loan fund to buy equipment and start businesses. If someone can’t get full funding they will loan $30,000 and take the second position to the bank. Four loans are out now at good interest rates. They support the MN Rural Broadband Coalition for internet and have a day on the Hill on April 3^rd.

Katie Draper, Director of Govt. Affairs for Mille Lacs Band Ojibwe: The band has 16,000 acres with 4,700 members, 609 in Pine County. There are six Minnesota Chippewa tribes. They have 750 full time employees in 30 businesses and operate public works, clinics, schools, and entertainment events. District 3 is east of Hinckley in Pine County. They have a new community center by the casino with a gym and track open to the public. The tribe pays $125,000 in property taxes on 50 million in assets.

Miranda Janssen, Rep for 8^th District Congressman Pete Stauber: Need to get the federal mileage rate or a fair parity rate for volunteer drivers. Stauber is working on the transportation bill and the Rural Broadband Coalition.

Ben Weiner, Veterans Services: The VA is the second largest bureaucracy in government. They bring millions to veterans services for education and services.

Business Meeting

Motion made and seconded to approve the Treasurer’s report by Secretary/Treasurer, Glen Williamson, Sr.

Election of Two Replacement Board Members: Two Executive Board members, Susan Grill (Kettle River Township) and Robert Sunstrom (Ogema Township) were re-elected by unanimous ballot for three-year terms. Next county township officers meeting October 26, 2019, 4^th Saturday at the American Legion in Hinckley.

Motion made, seconded, and approved to adjourn at 10:25 am.

Respectively submitted by

Glen Williamson Sr.
Secretary/Treasurer
Pine County Township Officer’s Association

Date Approved:______________________

Chair___________________________

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Photographs by Paul Raymond, Clerk, Wilma Township

The Fall Meeting of the Pine County Township Officer’s Association was held on Saturday, October 27, 2018, at the Hinckley American Legion Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Katy Overtoom at 9:00 a.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led Chair Katy Overtoom. The Invocation was provided by Katy Overtoom.

Roll call was taken with 21 townships present, establishing a quorum.

Motion made and seconded to approve the minutes from the Spring Meeting, Saturday, March 24, 2018.

We had several speakers:

State Senator, District 11, Tony Lourey said that the last session virtually nothing got done at the state legislature. However, they did get a bonding bill passed. He is looking forward to the legislature fostering a civil, fact-based dialogue between the parties. 

Tim Burkhardt, Candidate, District 11B lives in Hinckley and served three terms on the city council.  He’s also a Regional 5 director for the MN Association of Small Cities.  He talked about his background and why he’s running for State Representative.

State Representative, District 11B, Jason Rarick said if a fiber optic company is using state and federal money to expand, they should allow companies to access the services that’s on their route.  He talked about many issues, including the fact that townships have more roads than the state.  He went on to say that he and Tony Lourey work well together.  He answered many questions about internet connectivity.

Matt Ludwig, County Commissioner, District 5 said he’s been on the board since 2013.  He talked about the drug epidemic and that there are 100 kids in out placement.  There is $1.8 million dollars for Heath and Human Services.  The county added probation officers and a new court room.  There was also a $630,000 increase in wages and benefits this year over last year.

Reese Fredrickson, County Attorney talked about the military and his time in the Air Force.  He talked about military veterans that have got caught up in the criminal system and how he helps to divert them.  They are setting up a regional veteran treatment court to serve Pine, Isanti, Chisago and Kanabec Counties.  They are also looking for mentors for veterans. Last year was a record year for bookings and this year is about the same.  

County Sheriff, Jeff Nelson said he’s been sheriff for four years now.  He stated that overall the community feels good about what the department has accomplished.  He talked about the Drug Task Force and what they have done.

Kelly Schroeder, County Land Services Director that Land Services have a lot going on.  The county has added many recycling sheds and they will staff and new site near Willow River/Rutledge area.  Kelly talked about zoning initiative, the draft ordinance and that it will be an opt-in program.  She distributed flyers about the Pine County Zoning Initiative public meetings, Board of Equalization dates, culvert workshops and who is trained to be on the Board of Equation.

Karen Amundson, ECRDC Community Development Planner is putting together a Regional Development Transportation Committee. She talked about the different planning states and how we could help with transportation.

Leah Kampa and Dustie Speldrich, DNR Conservation Officers from the northern part of Pine County said we don’t have Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in our county.  However, they do in Aitkin and a couple others.  They went on to describe the symptoms of CWD.  If you’re involved in a car – deer kill, any police officer can give you a permit to keep the carcass.  They went on to say that trespassing is huge in this county.  To avoid trespassers, you must post signs at all entrances and back sides of your property, every 500 feet.

Rick Olseen, Field Representative for Congressman Rick Nolan said he’s on a farewell tour because Congressman Nolan is retiring and so he’ll be out of a job, January 2, 2019. He said that Congressman Nolan has a bill that would give those that volunteer for non-profit organizations the same rate as the federal mileage rate. He talked about many issues including that there is a Rural Broadband Coalition, and that as an organization that we may want to join.  He noted that 10% of the American economy is transported through the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Tim Fisher, MAT, District 10 Director and MAT new Executive Director David Hann came instead of Michael Miller, District 7 Director who had to be at his regular job. Halm said that he served on the state legislature for 14 years.  Even though he never lived in a township, while in the legislature, he stated he represented the interest of all Minnesotans.  He went on to state that many in the legislature are unaware about townships, but he plans on educating them.  He also talked about broadband and his work with the fire department.

Skip Thompson, Candidate for Pine County Commissioner, District 5 said he wants to sell tax forfeited land.  He talked about county wide zoning and what the cost would be.

Business Meeting

Motion made and seconded to approve the Treasurer’s report.

Susan Grill from Kettle River Township was elected to fill the vacancy until March 2019 on the Executive Board, vacated by Roberta Folkestad, Royalton Township.  Dan O’Flanagan, Dell Grove township was elected to fill the vacancy until March 2020 on the Executive Board, vacated by Dave Baker, New Dosey Township.

Motion made, seconded and pass to keep rolls in the morning, but discontinue lunch starting March 23, 2019.

Motion made, seconded, and approved to adjourn at 11:15 am.

Respectively submitted by

Glen Williamson Sr.

Secretary/Treasurer

Pine County Township Officers Association

Date Approved:______________________

Chairman___________________________

The Spring Meeting of the Pine County Township Officer’s Association was held on Saturday, March 25, 2017, at the Hinckley American Legion Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Katy Overtoom at 9:00 a.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led Chair Katy Overtoom. The Invocation was provided by Katy Overtoom.

Roll call was taken with 25 townships present, establishing a quorum.

Motion made and seconded to approve the minutes from the Fall Meeting, Saturday, October 22, 2016.

We had several speakers:

Rick Olseen, Field Representative for Congressman Rick Nolan … he said that Congressman Nolan would like the wolf matters to become a state issue.  He mentioned that meals on wheels program are at risk.  He also talked about the Veterans Choice Program.

State Representative, District 11B, Jason Rarick is the chair of the Jobs Committee.  He talked about many issues including broadband and a tax cut for many Minnesotans.

Stephan Hallan, County Commissioner, District 1 said that the county got funds to do surfacing on many roads.  Arrowhead gave 106,00 rides last year.  Most of those rides are contracted rides with Phase.  However, understand that the bus system is for everyone. He took a survey to see how many of the officers do not have trash service in their area.  The county is also putting dumpster on an experimental basis in a few areas, i.e. Willow River.  He also talked about recycling and where you can take your used appliances in Beroun, near the exit off of Interstate 35.

Jeff Nelson, Pine County Sheriff  – thanked County Attorney Reese for the work he’s doing.  2015 – 2016 there were 2,000 more law enforcement calls and it’s not slowing down.  So far this year they have written 38 search warrants which include blood draws and search of homes.  He encourages citizen to come along for a ride with other deputies.  Just call the office for details.  So far this year, the department has recovered over $100,000 in stolen properties (not all of them are from this county).  The department also just got their 2^nd canine and it’s in a 8 to 9 week training program.

Kelly Schroeder, County Land Services Director passed out solid waste guides and land assessment maps. Land value in the southern part of the county is going down, however it’s staying put or going up in the rest of the county.  She’s now the official County Recorder and has such it has become more customer service friendly.  Also remember that with all filing papers, signatures must be notarized.  She also talked about electronic and garbage recycle programs on Wednesdays and Saturdays in Willow River.  It will be $6.00 per garbage bag.    They will also have roll offs starting May 1 at the Hinckley VFW and Brook Park.  Their Household Hazardous Waste Facility served over 800 households in the county.

Lenny Bonander with NLX brought along Frank Leotterle with the Passenger Rail Office of MN DOT.  They are planning for the train to run from Target Field in Minneapolis to the city of Duluth.  They are planning on 40 round trips per day.  The travel time is expected to be 2 ½ hours each way.    They are just finishing up on the Environmental Assessment study and it’s now in D.C. for review.  He believes that it will be officially published by the end of June 2017.

Frank Loetterle, NLX Project Manager, MN DOT said that what’s being done so far is preparation work.  The cost of the project is about $500 million.  Most of the land belongs to BNF.   Every crossing must have a gate or an arm.  They will not close any crossing unless absolutely necessary – for example Nickerson Township.  They will make sure that local people are involve in the decision making process.  They are hoping for a maintenance facility in Sandstone and Duluth.

Bob Voss, ECRDC Director updated Economic Strategy for the region.  The commission must do it every five years.  Broadband needed to be worked on.  He mentioned that the ECRBC has a gap funding loan program for local businesses and they have about $126,000 to lend.  Currently they have about $400,000 in existing loans.  They can only loan up to 49% of money needed to start/run your business.

Penny Simonsen, ECRDC Community Director worked with Wilma Township to get internet service through Blandin Foundation.  Other townships, such as Arna are looking to do the same thing.

Ron Osladil of the North Pine Area Hospital District said the District is working hand and hand with Essentia, Thrifty White and Gateway.  The new hospital will host a tour May 9, 2017.  The hospital will formally open May 17, 2017.  They have sold the old hospital to a company called Hill Top.   Also the kitchen will be next door in the long-term nursing facility.

Brett Grundmeier, DNR Conservation Officer mentioned that Chronic Wasting Disease is a huge deal.  They have had 9 deer tested positive, mostly in SW Minnesota.   Hunters cannot bring mount back to Minnesota.  They can only bring back clean skulls.  He went on to talk about the catch and release program on Mille Lacs Lake and that you can only fish for walleyes with artificial bait.  Also after April 1, call if you have a wolf problem and they’ll send out a trapper.  His phone number is 320-384-7382.

Lyle Johnson, MAT District 7 Director – Minnesota will have $1.6 billion in surplus over the next 2 years.  With six million people, that’s about $150 per person surplus.  So, it’s not that much.   Good news: MATIT issued a dividend on worker’s compensation.  That’s two years in a row.

Other speakers were Alyssa and Olivia Dyksta, spoke about K-5 in Montessori in Sandstone,  Mike Swiridow and Larry Helwig.

Bob Ruppe or Couri & Ruppe Law Firm talked about their upcoming free seminar in Rutledge, Saturday, September 16, 2017 and what they have to offer to township.

Business Meeting

Motion made and seconded to approve the Treasurer’s report.

Dave Baker, New Dosey Township reelected to a 3 year term on the Executive Board.  Glen Williamson, Wilma Township was reelected to a three year term as Secretary/Treasurer.

Motion made, seconded, and approved to adjourn at 11:10 am.

Respectively submitted by

Glen Williamson Sr.

Secretary/Treasurer

Pine County Township Officers Association

Date Approved:______________________

Chairman___________________________

 

The Spring Meeting of the Pine County Township Officer’s Association was held on Saturday, March 28, 2015, at the Hinckley American Legion Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chairman Frank Grundmeier at 9:00 a.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was led Chair Frank Grundmeier. The Invocation was provided by Frank Grundmeier.

Roll call was taken with 28 townships present, establishing a quorum.

Motion made and seconded to approve the minutes from the Fall Meeting, Saturday, October 25, 2014.

Motion made and seconded to approve the Treasurer’s report.

We had several speakers:

Jason Rarick, State Representative, District 11B wants to get to as many township meetings as possible.  He’s working hard to get a bridge put in for the new hospital.  He’s pushing for $60 million to go to townships for roads.  He also wants to end funding going into MNDOT for NLX.  You can write to him at rep.jason.rarick@house.mn

Stephan Hallan, County Commissioner, District 1 said he’s working with Representative Rarick and Senator Lourey on the Indian Child Welfare Act.  The county has 1600 miles of road.  He said that the county zoning on noise and blight is being worked on.  We’ll know more in two years.  There isn’t a quick fix.

He mentioned that the county also put a lot of money into upgrading roads all around the county.

Curt Rossow, County Commissioner, District 4 said that we shouldn’t fret over county zoning on noise and blight.  County is within budget.  He wants the state to fully fund their mandates.  County Road 52  will be black topped to Denham in 2016.  It cost about $256K per mile to black top a road.  He talked about the county official salary and why it wasn’t published in the newspaper.

Reese Fredrickson, County Attorney said he works great with the Sheriff and County Commissioners.  He’ll be cracking down on repeat criminals and also maybe getting another prosecutor.

Jeff Nelson, County Sheriff wants to attend township meetings.  His email address is jeffrey.nelson@co.pine.mn.us, phone 320-591-0409.  Many deputy sheriffs are doing 12 hour shifts and hopefully they’ll be hiring new people.  He recently sent two deputies to Field Training Officer’s Course.  He’s finding funding for technology.

Kelly Schroeder, County Land Services Director said tax statement went out Friday.  Some property taxes went up, some went down.  Land value basically stayed the same, but building values went up.  She expects to have a quiet Board of Review throughout the county.   Eighteen townships have their own sewer ordinance.  Many township officers in attendance thanked her for help in doing their own sewer ordinance.

Sandstone City Councilor, Lenny Bonander, President of the Sandstone Economic Committee  said that the 40 acre medical campus will service the entire community.  The city of Sandstone will put about $2 million into this project.  He said they are working with our state representative and senator to help build a bridge that the hospital needs.

He also mentioned that the railroad corridor running through this area needs a significant upgrade.

Ron Osladil of the North Pine Area Hospital District passed out flyers about what’s going on with the Hospital District.

Conservation Officer Brent Grundmeier said there is a new law that establishes new perennial vegetation buffers of up to 50 feet along rivers, streams, and ditches that will help filter out phosphorus, nitrogen, and sediment.   They are working on helping to get Minnesota out of the Wolf Endangered Species Act and he can also help farmers again with wolf kill.  They are down to only 25 Conservation Officers.  Deer numbers are down and probably will see restrictions on the number of deer taken.

Lyle Johnson, MAT, District 7 Director spoke about what the L and R committee is all about and the time limit for bringing the resolutions  to be voting on.   Also said they are working on making it easier for land to revert back to to townships.  Many local roads need fixing, we just need to figure out how to fund it.  The Department of Revenue will no longer be doing Board of Review Training.   However MAT is trying to get them to reconsider.  The Broadband Initiative is that all rural residences would have 10 meg down/5 meg up of internet bandwidth.

The Retro Reflectivity law has been rescinded.  Also, you can download the Traffic Sign Maintenance Handbook from the MAT webstie.

Business Meeting

Frank Grundmeier said he will be retiring from the East Central Regional Development Commission in June.  Glen Williamson was nominated and elected to replace Frank on the commission.  Glen’s first ECRDC meeting will be Monday, August 24, 2015 in Mora, MN.

Paul Raymond and Katy Overtoom were Reelected to the Executive Board for another 3 years.

Tiffany Roots, Kettle River, Katy Overtoom, Chengwantana, Gigi Everett, Paul Raymond and Glen Williamson, Wilma townships were voted on to receive $300 stipend each to attend the MAT Annual Conference, November 19 – 21, 2015 in Alexandria, MN.  The stipend/reimbursement will be paid directly to each of their respective township.  They must submit a claim form to receive this reimbursement.

Lyle Johnson, MAT District 7 Director explained why it was important to attend the MAT Annual Conference.

Motion made, seconded, and approved to adjourn at 11:00 a.m.

Respectively submitted by

Glen Williamson Sr.

Secretary/Treasurer

Pine County Township Officer’s Association

Date Approved:______________________

Chairman___________________________

PINE COUNTY TOWNSHIP OFFICERS’ ASSOCIATION FALL MEETING, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2012

           Chairman Frank Grundmeier called the meeting to order at 9 a.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed with prayer.  Roll call:  26 Townships represented.

          SPEAKERS:  Tony Lourey:  Tony said he spent several years as Kerrick Township Supervisor, which helped in his approach to his Senate duties.  He echoed Frank’s prayer for cooperation and dialogue and finding common ground.  Tony said there are several serious state issues.  They were unable to agree on budget issues, and the state borrowed $2.7 billion from the tobacco settlement which was for schools.  The state has a $4.5 billion deficit.  Tony said his goal is to raise revenue fairly.  The state neglected road issues and pushed more of the burden down to counties and townships.  To avoid a tax increase, the state increased property taxes and removed the Homestead Tax Credit, which doubled property taxes over the past years.  Rural property owners were hit 3 times as hard as city dwellers.  Tony said we have to cut services and expenditures plus raise taxes to combat the deficit; it is not moral to keep pushing the problem to the next biennial.

County Commissioners:   Steve Hallan, District 1:    He said he agrees with Frank and Tony on the need for civil discourse and discussion.

Steve Chaffee, District 2:    He said the Commissioners  agree on the need for action, but not always on the means.  He said even with the loss of the Homestead Tax Credit, they were able to keep the levy at minus 1.  They have tried to hold down spending without cutting services.  They’ve learned to do more with less.

Curt Rossow, District 4:  He represents the townships and communities affected by the flooding this year.  The county has acted to help people fill out FEMA forms and get grant money to help people with forms.  It can take up to 40 hours to fill out the forms.  They were able to keep the levy at zero increase.

Doug Carlson, District 5: PineCounty is part of the Arrowhead County Association and the Minnesota Association of Counties.  They’ve worked on the problems of floods and blowdowns and tackled the issues of bureaucracy and regulations and streamlining agencies.  Their biggest issue is wetlands regulations, which have hurt our area a lot, affecting road projects and businesses.  They were able to refinance the jail with bonds and lowered interest rates from 6% to 2.7%, which will save the county $1 million.

Terry Croup, candidate for District 3 Commissioner:  He said his priority is public safety and roads.  He is concerned with the county losing population and said we need jobs to keep people here.  He said there are 900 businesses inPineCounty, including farms.  More businesses mean more employment.

Sheriff Robin Cole:  He’s been busy working on property crimes and arresting burglars.  This was a bad summer for car and ATV accidents, with 12 deaths.  Most accidents were caused by speed, not alcohol.  Kerrick and Ogema had a new problem, giant outdoor concerts with multiple bands over several days.  They choose Pine County because of little zoning.  The Ogema rave brought 1,500 people and cost the county $5,000 to police, and requested an ambulance and fire truck, and only had 6 security working.   There were drug arrests and fights and deputies arrested the promoter.  Ogema is now working on an ordinance to control raves.  Radios:  The new 800 MHz system is already working at the county level.  All 11 fire departments will get up to 75% of the needed radios.  The state is buying another 200 radios and Pine County may get 30. He encouraged the township officers to put pressure on the county commissioners to provide more radios.  The new system will cost $1.6 million.  They will need 5 towers, but the one in Duxbury and Cloverdale haven’t started construction, and the state isn’t responding.  He said they have other options to cover dead spots.  County Watch Program:  Thefts fueled by drug use are an issue.  This is hard to combat, so he stressed the importance of neighborhood watch groups at the local area, and of reporting any suspicious activities.

Tim Faust, Candidate for District 11B Representative:  The district lines were changed and Bill Hilty is not running.  Tim wants to restore the Homestead Tax Credit to townships because farm taxes have increased up to 250% or more, and rural taxes are greater than in the metro area.  He said if voter ID is passed, it will cost townships more to implement it.

Cathy Clemmer, County Auditor:  The levy proposal notices are ready.  Some township’s levies are going down.  School levies are still high. 60% of taxpayers will be paying less.  One third of our townships are mail-ballot precincts, and it is not clear how voter ID will work with absentee and mail-ballots and military ballots.  We don’t know yet how much it will cost.

Lenny Bonander, Pine Hospital Board:  Lenny gave the history of Essentia’s attempted takeover of the Pine Medical Center, and the grass-roots campaign opposing this, with townships and county and state and federal elected officials all getting involved with petitions and resolutions and letters.  This led to Essentia agreeing to a new lease and new agreement, and will be building a new hospital behind Gateway Health Clinic on a 55 acre site.  They hope to start construction by March, 2014.  Roads and sewer and water are going in already.

Ben Weiner, Candidate for District 11B Representative:  His focus is on the lack of jobs in our area, leading to foreclosed homes and our population decreasing.  He will fight unfunded mandates and excess regulations.  He said there is a big difference between the cities and rural communities in taxing and mandates.

Kelly Schroeder, County Assessor:  Many property values have gone down, and some people’s taxes have gone down.  Values are now holding.  The last 300 sales in the county were reasonably stable.  The flooding in northPineCounty affected 130 homes.  All non-productive land has been removed from the Green Acres program, and people must appeal by May 1, or they can lose their green acre status.  She distributed a list of 263 people at risk of losing Green Acre status, which could increase their taxes.

Mark LeBrun, County Engineer:  A 5-year road program has just been approved, with 100 miles of resurfacing paved roads and some newly paved roads.  He explained the specs for breakaway posts and said the county is now starting applying chloride on high-volume dirt roads, at a cost of $2,500/mile.  This reduces the frequency of blading and extends the regraveling interval from 5-7 to 10 years.

Brett Grundmeier, DNR:  Still concerned with fewer younger hunters and anglers, and they’re working to encourage more, with special hunts, etc.  Still fighting invasive species and cracking down on removing weeds and pulling plugs on boats.  Zebra mussels can wreck a lake.  Don’t know how the new wolf season will work; he suspects a lot of large coyotes will be brought in.  Some hybrid wolf-coyotes can’t be distinguished from wolves.  Farmers are allowed to kill wolves that are stalking their cattle.  His most frustrating problem is trespassing, and the law will not protect property owners if they don’t post their land every 500 feet, or at all entrances and corner borders, with a name and phone number or a signature.  Brett encouraged the township officers to call on the legislators to remove the posting law.

Don Sherper, MAT District Manager:   He said federal funds are disappearing due to the national debt.  He encouraged attendance at the state MAT convention inSt. Cloud.

Frank Grundmeier said the townships must work together to solve problems.  We can’t always get our way, and if we don’t work together, nothing will work.  We need to speak up at the grass-roots level, or things will not change.

BUSINESS MEETING:          Minutes of Spring Meeting:   Paul Raymond read Glen Williamson’s record of the March Township Officers Meeting.  Motion made and seconded to approve, with two changes:  Doug Carlson said it was 14 times running for all offices, not just commissioner, and Sue Koecher is fromNickersonTownship, not Wilma. Passed.

Treasurer’s Report:  Paul gave Glen’s treasurer’s report.  Motion and second to approve.  Passed.

State MAT Educational and Annual Meeting:   Paul explained howWilmaTownship has sent a representative several years, but felt that it would be better if the whole county township officers were represented at theSt. Cloud conference November 15-17.  The theme is Townships Serving Their Citizens—Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.  Paul suggested they send our Secretary-Treasurer Glen Williamson, since he is knowledgeable about our county township issues.  Frank said the total cost would be around $500.  He asked if there were any interest in sending a representative.  There was no motion or discussion, and the matter died.

Frank Grundmeier, East Central Regional Development Committee:  This year the Minnesota Department of Transportation is making a survey of all roads and will have a representative from ECRDC speak at the next township officers’ meeting. PineCounty has more roads than many counties.

Assessor Training:  Frank said we still have a program of financial assistance for anyone interested in becoming an assessor.

Pine County Hospital:  David Cullen fromSandstoneTownship said the new hospital is on a fast track for construction.  This is very important for our county and area.  He encouraged townships who are in the hospital district to get involved.  The hospital is owned by the district and the participating townships.

Motion and second and vote to adjourn meeting at 11:20 a.m.

BUSINESS MEETING:   Dave Kapoff, Dave Baker, Frank Grundmeier, and Paul Raymond present.  Sue Koecher’s mother died and she is absent, as is Glen Williamson. Motion made, seconded and passed to approve minutes of the September 20  business meeting.    Checks were signed, bills were paid. $66.50 was donated for the lunch.  Motion made, seconded and approved to adjourn at 12:20 p.m.

Paul Raymond, acting Secretary Treasurer, Pine Co. Twp. Officers’ Assn.

 

Date Approved: ___________Chairman:___________________________