The Meeting was called to order by Supervisor Brandt at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. All members were in attendance.
Motion by Wortham, seconded by Plein to accept the minutes of the August 8th, 2011 Board Meeting as presented. Carried – unanimous
Motion by Wortham, seconded by Plein to accept the Treasurers report for August, 2011, check #17282 through check #17333, totaling $174,625.71 Carried – unanimous
Motion by Plein, seconded by Wortham to pay all bills presented for payment by the Clerk, check #17334 through check #17359, totaling $18,075.68 Carried – unanimous.
Joy Childs and Jack Hendrickson approached the board regarding the proposed snowmobile trail down South Road on behalf of Joy & Stan Childs, Jack & Kathy Hendrickson and Vickey Leonard. Joy presented a detailed letter (attached to the minutes) regarding the opposition to the trail being included on the upcoming snowmobile map. They believe there are other options for the access to the lake. Members representing the SnoPros explained the decision to use that particular access and planned to install signs to reduce speed and increase safety. Supervisor Brandt explained the road was dedicated to the public and vehicles, snowmobiles, pedestrians were legally allowed to use this access. Brandt explained the DNR will not take responsibility for the access. A request was made to have a comprehensive study to decide where to access the lake. The SnoPros agreed to meet with the individuals apposed to the trail and look at other options within the week. The board agreed to use the access for a year if an alternative solution is not reached and revisit the issue again next year. The board stated the access is dedicated to the public. Childs and Hendrickson stated they were apposed to the decision. Supervisor Brandt agreed to meet with the townships legal council for confirmation of the decision by the township board.
Ideal resident Scott Mumm approached the board regarding a noise issue on Highway 16. Supervisor Brandt explained the fact that any noise ordinance is through Crow Wing County as Ideal does not apply its own ordinances and any enforcement had to be handled through the Sheriffs department.
The Road and Bridge report was as follows:
- Supervisor Brandt reported the maintenance department has been mowing the road right of way.
- Brandt reported several trees on Father Foley have been removed with other large trees being removed next week.
- Brandt reported a complaint regarding the condition of Wild Acres Road. Brandt explained grading cannot be performed with such dry conditions. Brandt proposed improving the road at a cost of between $10,000 and $18,000 by improving the ditching on the road. Supervisor Wortham expressed concern over the budget. Supervisor Brandt explained that there was adequate funding available for the improvements. The board agreed to allow the improvement.
- Road crack sealing in process.
- Brandt reported an issue on Gasink Road regarding a storm water plan. The agreement was that the county would have to approve the proposed plan.
- The township agreed to work with the county regarding a safety issue on County road 39 after a vehicle accident on a certain curve.
- There were no safety incidents.
The Fire Department report was as follows:
- The clerk presented a letter for approval to the board regarding the grant application for the radio support through the county which included a financial commitment from the township.
- The board accepted a check for $800 from the Sons of the American Legion for the Fire Department truck display with much appreciation.
- The fire department was currently in the process of applying for a FEMA grant.
Motion by Wortham, seconded by Plein to support the grant application for the radio support as stated. Carried - unanimous
The Transfer Station report was as follows:
- Supervisor Plein reported the electronics and hazardous waste have been removed and hazardous waste would no longer be accepted until next spring.
The Park and Recreation report was as follows:
- Supervisor Plein posted a news item on the website regarding the new Fire display at the park. The construction was to begin this week.
- The Paul Bunyan sign has been stolen off of the pavilion and needs to be replaced by the scenic byway.
- Plein stated he was still looking into the Merry Go Round proposed for the park.
Supervisor Brandt reported on several Planning and Zoning issues, involving Piney Ridge, an issue regarding a garage on Hay Lake and an access on Bass Bay Lane. All issues were still pending.
Brandt reported the Trout Lake channel between Whitefish and Trout lake was to be dredged shortly. The material will be stored 1000 feet from the lake on Trout Lake Camp property. WAPOA generously agreed to donate the cost of the carpet cleaning in appreciation for use of the facility.
Brandt also reported the two juveniles responsible for the recent vandalism to the town hall were found responsible for the expenses incurred by the township for the clean up and would submit reimbursement.
The board discussed the current town hall rental policy and agreed to review the current policy and make a decision for several changes. In addition, supervisor Brandt presented a new company to remove tires at a reduced cost to the township at the transfer station.
There being no further business to transact, the meeting adjourned at 8:55 pm.
Deana St. Pierre
Ideal Township Clerk
September 12th, 2011